A Special Evening of Celebration, Friendship and Excellent Ritual
It was a very special and memorable evening at The Royal Navy Lodge No. 429, as brethren and visitors gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the Masonic journey of Worshipful Brother Roger Seward, Past Provincial Grand Registrar, who was presented with a certificate marking his outstanding achievement of 50 years in Freemasonry.
The occasion was made even more special by the presence of visiting brethren from Shiplake Lodge No. 7942 in the Province of Oxfordshire, Roger’s Mother Lodge, who had travelled to join the celebrations and support their longstanding friend and brother. Their attendance was a wonderful demonstration of the enduring friendships and bonds of brotherhood that Freemasonry creates.
Half a Century of Masonic Service
Roger’s Masonic journey began on 21st June 1976, when he was initiated into Shiplake Lodge, following in the footsteps of his father and brother, who were both Freemasons.
His commitment to the Craft has been demonstrated through a distinguished Masonic career, including serving as Worshipful Master of Shiplake Lodge on no fewer than four occasions – in 1990, 2002, 2010 and 2014, the latter coinciding with the Lodge’s 50th anniversary year.
His dedication was further recognised through Provincial appointments, including Provincial Senior Deacon in 2002, and service as Provincial Grand Steward in the Royal Arch in 2020 and 2021. Over the years, Roger has also enjoyed the opportunity to visit Lodges across the world, including in Antigua, Australia, New Zealand and Northern Ireland.
Following his move to Ramsgate in 2023, Roger was granted Honorary Membership of Shiplake Lodge and subsequently joined The Royal Navy Lodge No. 429, where he continues to make a valuable contribution as Assistant Secretary. He is also actively involved in Thanet Chapter, serves as Visiting Officer to Downes Lodge No. 6855 in Deal, and contributes to the management of the Masonic Centre.
A Life of Achievement Beyond Freemasonry
Roger’s achievements extend well beyond the Craft. Born in Reading in October 1946, he began his working life with Cadbury Brothers, completing a commercial apprenticeship and studying business at Aston University. He subsequently joined the family supermarket business, helping to develop it into a successful enterprise comprising three supermarkets, a bakery and a wholesale cooked meat company.
Following the sale of the business in 2001, Roger devoted time to charitable work, supporting youth clubs and providing first aid training. He also served as a leader of emergency first aid responder teams in Berkshire.
A keen sportsman throughout his life, Roger played hockey at county level for Worcestershire and enjoyed rugby, golf and, more recently, bowls. He and his wife Judith have four children and ten grandchildren.
A Truly Memorable Occasion
The presentation of Roger’s 50-year certificate was a proud moment, not only for Roger himself but also for all those privileged to share in the occasion.
It was particularly pleasing to welcome brethren from Shiplake Lodge, whose presence reinforced the special connection between Roger’s Masonic beginnings in Oxfordshire and his continuing involvement in Freemasonry here in East Kent.
Fifty years in Freemasonry is a remarkable achievement, representing a lifetime of dedication, service, friendship and commitment to the principles of the Craft.
The evening was a wonderful celebration of those values, combining an important personal milestone with excellent ritual and the warmth of Masonic fellowship.
The Worshipful Master, officers and brethren of The Royal Navy Lodge No. 429 extend their warmest congratulations to WBro Roger Seward on reaching this magnificent milestone, thanking him for his many years of devoted service and wishing him continued health, happiness and enjoyment in Freemasonry for many years to come.
