Freemasons lodge is set to open its doors to the public (From Wharfedale Observer)

Freemasons lodge is set to open its doors to the public

1:00am Sunday 17th March 2013 in Local news By Alistair Mason

A Masonic lodge is opening its doors for Ilkley people to learn more about freemasonry and hear a talk on health.
Ben Rhydding Lodge, which meets at the Masonic Hall on Cunliffe Road in Ilkley, is throwing open its doors to the public on Wednesday, March 20, at 7pm to enable both men and women to discover more about freemasonry.
The aim is to try and demystify what happens at the meetings and answer some of the questions people may have about the organisation.
Visitors will be able to have a look around the Lodge rooms, be shown the different roles people play and be given an explanation of the aims and objectives of the Ancient Order, which can be traced back to the 16th century.
In addition, the Lodge members have organised a talk from renowned consultant urologist, Nick Shaikh, who will be giving an informative and entertaining talk about the problems men of a ‘certain age’ may encounter and advising about the tell-tale signs which could indicate there is a medical problem that needs treating.
Master of Ben Rhydding Lodge, Peter Coupe, is hoping there will be a lot of interest in the open evening from local people.
He said: “Author Dan Brown did much to increase the curiosity about freemasonry but there are many preconceived and inaccurate ideas about the order that Dan Brown did little to dispel and which we are anxious to correct.
“Much of the fault for some people being suspicious about what goes on at masonic meetings is down to the fact that, until recently, we have not been as open as we could have been.
“Little is also known about our charitable work, for example. Many will be surprised to learn that our organisation is one of the largest charitable givers in the UK.
“We therefore hope to dispel some of the negative connotations sometimes associated with the order by opening the doors and inviting people to look around and meet the members.
As food and refreshments will be provided, those wishing to attend should contact Peter Coupe on (01943) 601037 or e-mail: BenRhyddingLodge@gmail.com to reserve a place.