After twenty-nine years of camaraderie, service, and charitable work, the Brethren of Devonshire Emergency Services Lodge No. 9613 gathered in September for their final meeting.
Founded to bring together Freemasons working within the ambulance, fire and rescue, and police service, the Lodge fostered close friendships built on shared values of duty and public service.
However, in recent years it became increasingly difficult to attract new members from its core emergency services background. With numbers declining, the members took the difficult but dignified decision that the Lodge was no longer viable. Sixteen brethren attended the emotional closing meeting, reflecting on decades of contribution to Freemasonry and the local community, and cherishing many lasting memories.
Despite the sadness of closure, the Lodge ensured that its final act would be one of benevolence. Freemasonry is widely known for its strong charitable tradition, and the Lodge had always embraced this principle. The Brethren agreed unanimously that their remaining funds, both General and Charitable, should be donated to causes with a meaningful connection to their membership and their values.
As a result, donations were made to Rowcroft Hospice (£677.89), Devon Air Ambulance (£500), Pete’s Dragons Suicide Bereavement Support (£500), Children’s Hospice South West (£250), Torbay Hospital Heart Campaign (£100) and the Trustees of Devon Mark Lodge (£1,000).
These donations reflect the Lodge’s roots in frontline public service and its enduring commitment to supporting those in crisis, whether through medical care, emergency response, or vital mental-health support. Each organisation benefits local people here in Devon, ensuring that the legacy of the Lodge will continue long after it has gavelled for the final time.
Although Devonshire Emergency Services Lodge No. 9613 has now completed its journey, this is not the end of the story for its members. The great majority are continuing as active Freemasons within other Craft Lodges across the Province. Their commitment to fellowship, service and charity remains undimmed.
In closing their lodge with dignity and generosity, the Brethren have demonstrated precisely what it means to live by the core values of Freemasonry, and express a desire to support those in need.