Freemasonry is often spoken of in terms of what we do within the Lodge, but its true value for me is found in how its teachings are lived beyond it. A Mason’s duty to help others does not end when the Lodge is closed; in many ways, that is where it truly begins.
As a member of a group of Lodges in Portugal, I have had the privilege of putting those principles into practice through volunteering with the Bombeiros of São Martinho do Porto. This year alone, I volunteered for ten consecutive days during their festival, helping to run the bar at lunchtime and in the evenings. It was a fantastic event, raising much-needed funds for the humanitarian work carried out by the Bombeiros.
That support continued at the Alcobaça festival, where I spent two nights helping again, followed by four demanding days at the Bacalhau Festival back at the São Martinho do Porto fire station. Working in the kitchen for four days straight was hard work and well outside my comfort zone, but it was rewarding in a way that only service can be.
On a rainy December morning I received a call asking for help, my answer was simply “yes”. Despite a language misunderstanding and not fully knowing what was required at first, or what I was volunteering for I was happy to assist — because that is what Masonry teaches us to do.
I must say it was a surprise when I got there as I was put to work in the kitchen to help the chef who has been doing the cooking for many years.
This, to me, is the side of Freemasonry that is most important for new Brethren to understand. It is not about what we wear, the offices we hold, or what happens within the four walls of the Lodge. It is about how the principles of charity, service, and brotherly love guide our actions in everyday life. When we help others quietly, willingly, and without expectation, we are truly being good Masons.
Time spent helping others is a true reward and I encourage every mason to try volunteering to see how rewarding it can be.
WB Adrian Peters – Lancaster Lodge nº 9413 (UGLE)
December 2025