Arthur STEVEN Varley (69)
Retired solicitor.
How long have you been a Freemason?
Since 30th December 1983 -38 years.
What attracted you to become a Freemason
My Father – I am third generation and my Grandfather was the 4th initiate into St W in its first year of existence – 1920-21.
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
Making good men better.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
Because I am the third generation and it is the best Lodge in the Province (I am biased of course!).
How long have you been a Freemason?
4 years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
I was living and working in a new town, and I saw Freemasonry as the perfect way to make new friends. I also wanted to learn more about myself and take a new direction in my studies, less academic, more personal learning.
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
I take many things away from my Freemasonry, the Friendship and support of my brother masons, personal satisfaction at a ritual performed well, enjoyment of being around like-minded people and being accepted for who I am as a person.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
St Werburga is like my extended family; we celebrate together and support each other in difficult times; a real ‘esprit de corps’ if you like.
How long have you been a Freemason?
40 years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
Charity companionship and family tradition
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
Pleasure self-esteem and excellent code of conduct
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
Great tradition high standards and true brotherhood
How long have you been a Freemason?
9 Years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
I have friends who were Freemasons and they had told me about the ceremonies and links back to historic professions and events and I was very interested in this as I am a bit of a history buff. I also liked all I heard about the charitable work that they do and wanted to become a part of that good work.
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
So many things, I loved learning of the historic connections of Freemasonry, as I knew I would. Raising money for charity is also a big part of it, helping others is a good feeling and I whole heartedly get involved in that, but as an individual I think it makes me a better more confident person. Through learning ritual and progressing through the various officers in the Lodge, I am a much more confident public speaker, and by living the values taught in the ceremonies I believe it has made me a better person. You also make a multitude of very good friends from all walks of life, that you would never normally meet, friends who have the same values and interests as you, and all of them treat each other with respect and as equals. I absolutely love Freemasonry.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
St Werburga has many members with similar backgrounds to me, but also has a diverse range of professions and backgrounds. It is a very friendly lodge, with everyone willing to help everyone else. We take pride in developing brethren coming through the lodge to contribute to Freemasonry in any way they chose. We are all individuals and St Werburga brethren acknowledge and embrace that and are there to help you in any way they can in your chosen journey in Freemasonry and in life in general.
How long have you been a Freemason?
42 years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
Opportunity to expand my social circle and contribute to Society through charity
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
Companionship and I enjoy Masonic ritual
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
Enables me to pass on the experiences I have gained over 42 years in the craft
How long have you been a Freemason?
4 Years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
A Calling
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
Friendship Camaraderie also love of Ritual
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
The History and Family links as my grandfather was also a member of St. Werburga
How long have you been a Freemason?
Since 22/02/2019 – Initiated on my Birthday
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
The History and links to Stonemason’s Guilds. I wanted to be part of an historic and wonderful organisation stretching back over 300 years.
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
To carry on and spread the messages, teachings and principles of our ancient Brethren. As well as growing myself as a person and helping others.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
A lodge over 100 years old, with much fascinating history. As well as links to my local area where I was born and raised.
How long have you been a Freemason?
Since Nov 2021
What attracted you to become a Freemason? Friendship
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
Finding people that actually genuinely want to become good friends.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
It is a wonderful place to be part of with an amazing history. If you want to make lifelong friendships then please join us. You will not be disappointed.
50
Civil Servant
How long have you been a Freemason?
29 years
What attracted you to become a Freemason?
Friendship and charity. Also that my family were in the Masons and i joined my mother lodge in Scotland as my brother in law was a member there. There are Masonic Lodges around the world doing great things for our community and I wanted to be a part of this journey to help others.
What do you get out of being a Freemason?
As a freemason i have created a far greater network of like minded friends who have similar values. These being helping those in need whether they are masons or not. In supporting charities local to Derbyshire, nationally and abroad. I have personally run charity events for a local Autistic School and disabled children at our annual Children’s Christmas Party. These events have also been supported by the Derbyshire Provincial Grand Lodge and by members of my own lodge. It also supports my own mental health and wellbeing by attending meetings and meeting new friends as i visit different lodges around the Country. As we organise annual visits to Lodge Clyde in Glasgow.
Why is St Werburga Lodge important to you?
This is my local Masonic Lodge and near to where I live, but most of all there are a number of great people within the lodge that I have similar values to and enjoy their company. There is also a strong Scottish connection with St Werburga through its members and as i grew up in Scotland, this really appealed to me. In recent years I have lost both my parents and I can honestly say that they Lodge members have been there for me during my difficult times when I needed their support. It is a great friendly Lodge with a diverse mix of people and you are welcomed with open arms. I would say you get out of Freemasonry what you put into it, but they always say family and work come first. So there is no pressure to do more than what is in your gift to give. It’s a great Lodge and I am proud to be a member here.