Descensus Aquarum Lodge No. 8655 in Ely marked its 50th anniversary this September with a remarkable blend of celebration and charitable achievement. In a fitting tribute to its legacy, the Lodge proudly helped complete a £30,000 fundraising target for Branching Out, a local charity also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
The journey began in January, when all four Ely Lodges joined forces with support from the Provincial Charity for Care and Relief and the Masonic Charitable Foundation. On 30th January, a team of Ely Freemasons presented a donation of £4,377.20 to Branching Out in Littleport, launching the charity’s “£30K for 30 Years” campaign.
During the visit, Freemasons toured the facilities and met service users, adults with learning disabilities who benefit from Branching Out’s enriching work experiences and social activities. The warm welcome and vibrant atmosphere underscored the charity’s vital role in the community.
The Lodge’s Ladies Festival, held on Saturday 20th September at The Maltings (the very venue where the Lodge was consecrated in 1975), was a highlight of the celebrations. Organised by W.Bro. John Sinclair and his wife Kay, the event raised over £2,300 for Branching Out. Worshipful Master Peter Matthews and his Lady Lis described the evening as unforgettable, with two representatives from the charity joining in the festivities.
On 24th September, the Lodge’s official birthday, a special meeting was held to reflect on its history. Masters from Nourse Lodge, St Audrey Lodge (the Mother Lodge), and Walpole Lodge (the Founding Master’s Mother Lodge) participated in the commemorative ceremony. W.Bro. Peter Crussell, Provincial Junior Grand Warden, delivered an insightful presentation on Masonic aprons, followed by a Festive Board and raffle.
Combined with the Ladies Festival proceeds, the total raised reached £2,664.32, pushing Branching Out past its £30,000 goal.
To conclude this inspiring journey, W.Bro. John and Kay Sinclair, along with W.Bro. Peter and Lis Matthews, visited Branching Out on 3rd October to present the funds and reconnect with the service users.
