Throughout my life, I have always believed in continual personal development. Whether in my military career or in civilian life, I have sought opportunities to learn, grow, and become a better version of myself. It was this mindset, combined with a longstanding family connection to Freemasonry, that first drew me towards the Craft.

I had uncles who were Freemasons in the Lake District, and from conversations over the years I had developed a vague understanding of what Freemasonry represented. I knew it was often perceived as a secretive organisation, but I also knew that charity, integrity, and helping others lay at its heart. Despite this awareness, it remained something on the periphery of my life until one day I came across an advertisement on social media. What I saw resonated with me, and curiosity prompted me to make an enquiry through the National Digital Marketing Campaign.

Shortly afterwards, I was contacted by Worshipful Brother Colin Hancock of Strumble Lodge No. 4351 in Fishguard, west Wales. Colin invited me to meet with him and several other brethren for an informal chat over a cup of tea. The meeting was relaxed, friendly, and informative. I was able to ask questions about Freemasonry, while they took the opportunity to learn more about me and my reasons for making contact.

What struck me most was the warmth of the welcome and the openness of the conversation. Any apprehensions I may have had quickly disappeared. By the end of that first meeting, I knew I wanted to learn more. I asked to be considered for membership and was delighted when I was informed that I would be initiated into the Lodge at the next meeting.

As the date of my initiation approached, Colin offered me a piece of advice that I am grateful I followed. He encouraged me not to research the ceremony or try to discover what would happen. Instead, he suggested I experience it as it was intended. Trusting his judgement, I went into the evening completely blind.

Naturally, I was nervous. However, I also trusted that the brethren around me would guide me through the process and ensure that no harm would come to me. Looking back, that trust was well placed. Throughout the ceremony, I experienced a mixture of emotions, ranging from uncertainty and curiosity to pride and excitement.

The overwhelming feeling at the end of the evening was one of belonging. It is difficult to put into words, but the closest comparison I can make is to the moment I first joined the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess during my military career. There was a sense of acceptance, camaraderie, and shared purpose that made me feel immediately at home. Quite simply, I felt as though I had come home.

Since becoming a Freemason, the welcome and acceptance I have received have been tremendous. What has impressed me most, however, is the dedication shown by the brethren towards charity and helping others. Regardless of rank, office, or status, there is a genuine willingness to give time, effort, and resources for the benefit of others. Witnessing such selfless commitment has been both humbling and inspiring.

Having served as a soldier for more than thirty-four years, I cannot help but notice certain similarities between military life and Freemasonry. Both organisations possess a clear structure and hierarchy, with officers and members working together towards common goals. Both have standards of dress, behaviour, and conduct. Both value discipline, respect, and mutual support.

There are also familiar social traditions. Informal conversations over a drink, the friendships forged through shared experiences, and the formal dinners with their toasts and traditions all remind me of my years in the military mess system.

Yet there are also significant differences. In military life, rank and status remain ever-present, even after formal duties have concluded. In Freemasonry, while offices and responsibilities are respected during Lodge proceedings, the atmosphere afterwards is refreshingly equal. At the Festive Board, every member is approachable and valued. The sense of equality and mutual respect is one of the qualities I admire most.

My understanding of Masonic etiquette is still developing, but what I have learned so far has been straightforward and meaningful. The rules and principles I have been entrusted with are neither burdensome nor difficult to follow. Instead, they serve as guides to personal conduct and mutual respect. I look forward to continuing my education and participating in many more ceremonies in the future.

A month after my own initiation, I had the opportunity to attend another brother’s initiation ceremony. Observing the process from the other side was an enlightening experience. Many aspects of my own ceremony suddenly fell into place, and I gained a greater appreciation for the effort, care, and symbolism involved.

I am now preparing to take my next step in Freemasonry by advancing to the Second Degree. Once again, Worshipful Brother Colin Hancock has been a tremendous source of support and guidance. Through mentoring and encouragement, he has helped me prepare for what lies ahead. I have been studying diligently and learning everything required to ensure the ceremony is both successful and meaningful.

Looking to the future, I hope to achieve much within Freemasonry. I would like to take office within the Lodge and contribute to its continued success. I hope to support future Entered Apprentices as they begin their own journeys, perhaps serving as a mentor, guide, or officer. Most importantly, I wish to continue my own personal development while remaining true to myself and to the values of Freemasonry.

My journey has only just begun, but already I have discovered something truly special: a brotherhood founded upon friendship, integrity, charity, and self-improvement. For someone who spent over three decades serving alongside others in military life, finding a new fraternity built upon similar values has been both rewarding and reassuring.

I joined Freemasonry seeking an opportunity for personal development and fellowship. What I found was a new home.

Yours fraternally 

Brother Alan Pike