The Warwickshire Mark Lodge of Instruction is a brilliant opportunity for all Mark Master Masons out there who wish to enhance their skills and expertise relating to the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Degrees. It offers a learning platform that is open and available to all members interested in learning about the Mark Masonry and improving their proficiency. The Lodge is blessed to have W.Bro. Roger Cook and W.Bro. Peter Barker as Preceptors who provide excellent guidance and assistance to all members.

The purpose of the Lodge of Instruction is to provide an opportunity for the newer Brethren to become versed in the ritual and symbolism of Master Masons. Also to be able to practise the ritual in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The meetings are usually overseen by the Preceptors (another word for teacher) who is an experienced member of the Lodge.

We meet on an informal basis and practise the various rituals so that at our ‘actual’ meetings we feel confident and well-rehearsed. There are always experienced brethren there to guide and instruct the newer brethren as necessary. The Lodge of Instruction is key to the guarantee of a good meeting of which the members can be proud and which hopefully gives pleasure to our visitors.

The rehearsal of a ceremony normally takes place with the officers of the regular Lodge occupying the positions they either hold or expect to fill next year. Lay brethren are also given the opportunity to fill any of the offices. This gives them a chance to practise a ceremony in an office which until then is unfamiliar to them. There are also opportunities for any brothers to practise any additional ritual or signs should they so desire (time permitting).

Although, of course, the ceremonies are always practised in earnest to make sure we give of our best at the actual meetings, LOI could not be classified as a totally serious event and there is always a lot of fun and banter.

A Festival is hosted annually at a Masonic Centre, a great event that brings together those who have previously attended the Lodge of Instruction and form the team leaders who showcase their work. In the Masters’ role, the workload is shared, and it is thoroughly enjoyed by all attendees. This event is presided over by a Senior Mark Master Mason, thereby assuring everyone that the proceedings are legitimate and carried out under adequate supervision.