The Polytechnic Lodge

In what might be described as a truly international gathering with a Masonic flourish, Ex Libris Lodge No 3765 held its second Double Initiation meeting this October, drawing guests from across Europe and beyond.

In an impressive show of Masonic unity, the Lodge was honoured with the presence of MW Bro Laurențiu Cosmin Balcu, former Grand Master of the National Grand Lodge of Romania (Lodge No 374), accompanied by a retinue of 11 distinguished Romanian brethren. Not to be outdone, RW Bro Robert Guirao, Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Andorra, lent his esteemed presence, adding further weight to the gathering.

Joining these high-profile Masons were Brethren from Spain and many Lodges under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), lending the event a sense of warmth and camaraderie that reflects the Lodge’s recent resurgence. Ex Libris Lodge, which has enthusiastically welcomed nine new joining members during 2024, appears to be on a growth trajectory that shows no signs of slowing. With four additional prospective members set to join in 2025, it’s safe to say that Ex Libris Lodge is well on its way to becoming a Masonic hub for the forward-thinking Mason.

Established in 1916 by a group of publishers and stationers, Ex Libris Lodge No 3765 once served as a vibrant hub for bookish brethren. However, in recent years, the Lodge's membership had dwindled, and in October 2023, they faced the heart-wrenching prospect of surrendering their warrant. However, as Masonic providence would have it, an unexpected group of UGLE Masons had other ideas.

Their vision was to rejuvenate Ex Libris Lodge as a “Special Interest Research Lodge” with a unique mission: to explore the future of technology in Freemasonry. Supported by UGLE’s Special Interest Team, the visionaries stepped up to breathe new life into Ex Libris. By April 2024, the new members officially took charge at the installation meeting, transforming the lodge into a bustling community with members spanning the globe. As they say, the rest is history—or, perhaps more fittingly, the rest is the future.

As a Special Interest Research Lodge, Ex Libris has embarked on a journey to explore the intersection of Freemasonry and emerging technology. From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, augmented reality to blockchain, the Lodge is diving into the innovations that might shape the Craft for years to come. Ex Libris Lodge meets four times a year on Saturday mornings at Freemasons' Hall. For those curious to learn more, or interested in joining the Lodge’s pioneering research efforts, the Secretary of Ex Libris Lodge can be found at secretary3765@gmail.com.

Reflecting on the occasion, Worshipful Master W Bro Nicholas Broadway, shared, “Our Lodge is proof that Freemasonry can adapt, innovate, and thrive in the modern era. Ex Libris was founded with a unique and forward-looking purpose, and our members—old and new—are committed to preserving that purpose while exploring new ways to contribute to the Craft. We’re honoured to welcome so many distinguished guests and proud to be at the forefront of something exciting.”