What is a Lodge?
A lodge is a group of like-minded men acting in harmony for the betterment of their community and for self-improvement. Reference to men may seem a little one sided, but male Freemasonry is an exclusive male institution. Female Freemasonry is an exclusively female institution.
Let there be no mistake, without the support of the partners in our lives much less would be done than is done by the Freemasons of Canberra. With incalculable thanks due to the partners in our lives, the men of the Lodge Caledonia No. 938 work for the benefit of the community of Canberra.
What does the name Caledonia mean?
Caledonia is the name we give to our Lodge. The name means ‘hard or rocky land’ and seems well-suited to parts of the Australian landscape. Originally, however, the name referred to the hard and rocky land of central Scotland, where a large Pictish tribe, the Caledonii, confronted the Romans to defend Pictland (which became Scotland) against the spread of the Roman Empire north of what became Hadrian’s Wall. Historically, the Caledonii were one of several tribes in the area, perhaps the dominant tribe.
The Scottish Heritage And Current Status Of Lodge Caledonia No. 938
Originally Lodge Caledonia No. 938 operated in Australia under the guidance of the Scottish system of Lodges, and many members were of Scottish background. We now operate under the guidance of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Nevertheless, our Scottish heritage and membership remain strong.
What Does The Number 938 Refer To?
The number 938 in the name ‘Lodge Caledonia No. 938’ is the sequential number assigned to Lodge Caledonia No.938 on the register of all Lodges under the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. The United Grand Lodge is in Sydney and Lodge Caledonia is in Canberra.
Who Are The Members Of Lodge Caledonia?
Just, Upright, and free men from all walks of life, all above the age of 18, of all ethnicities, social status, levels of education, and religious beliefs, are members of our Lodge.
We meet ‘on the level’ and part ‘on the square’, and eventually experience ‘the third degree’. These phrases will become familiar additions to your vocabulary once you join the Lodge. Freemasons generally, and the members of our Lodge in particular, adhere to the principles of Brotherly Love - in the sense of treating all men, women and children as equals, fairly and respectful; Relief - in the sense of giving what we are able to give to ease the discomfort and relieve the distress of this in need; and truth - in the sense of acting honestly and openly in our dealings with everyone.
We aim to strive daily to improve ourselves and enrich the lives of those around us. We seek to strengthen our community by taking the lead in providing Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.