A Unique Initiation at Page Lodge No. 3378

At their January meeting, Page Lodge No. 3378, Province of Worcestershire, hosted a particularly memorable evening when Brother Anthony Charles Nicholson was initiated into Freemasonry under circumstances that are, to say the least, unusual.

The initiation was conducted by his son, W.Bro Karl Nicholson, who had been invited by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro Chris Fredericks, to carry out the ceremony. While it is not uncommon for fathers to initiate their sons into the Craft, the reverse is far rarer, making the evening both a privilege and a somewhat surreal experience for all involved.

Brother Nicholson, a retired British Army officer with 42 years of service, had been familiar with Freemasonry for many years through his son. True to his military background, he approached the idea with care and deliberation, conducting what might best be described as a full reconnaissance before committing himself — a process that lasted some fifteen years. It was only upon retirement that he felt he finally had the time and space to devote himself fully to the Craft.

The ceremony itself was very much a collective effort, with W.Bro Nicholson being supported throughout by the officers and Brethren of the Lodge. Their teamwork and quiet professionalism ensured the evening ran smoothly and with confidence.

A special word of thanks is due to the Director of Ceremonies, W.Bro Phillip Butler, whose patience, guidance, and tireless work during rehearsals ensured that all concerned were well prepared for the occasion.

Evenings such as this serve as a powerful reminder of what Freemasonry represents today: an organisation where men from different backgrounds, professions, and life experiences come together on equal footing, united by shared moral values, mutual respect, and genuine friendship. In an increasingly divided world, that sense of unity and common purpose remains as relevant and important as ever.

Page Lodge can take great pride in having hosted such a meaningful and memorable event, one that will undoubtedly be remembered by all who were present.