I write this having not been to a meeting since I last wrote the editorial for this magazine. The longest between meetings since my initiation in 1998. It has been a time of reflection and flux for us all. The flux bit we have all endured, the changes in what we must do, the changes in risk and the changes in our daily lives.

This has not been easy for anyone. But also, we have all had time to consider what unites us and what we love about the Craft. And we all understand the frustrations of not being able to see our friends or even leave the house. However, we should all be cognisant of both our regularity and our
faith and not lose sight of the core tenets of our Craft, as they give us the structure that makes ‘good men better’.

Within these pages, you will read about how Metropolitan brethren have led from the front in our communities. You’ll see our ‘Covid Heroes’, our charity work and our volunteering. You will also read about our new Chief Executive of the MCF, an introduction to Masonry ‘north of the border’ (Hadrian’s Wall rather than the Thames) and a fascinating interview with our Metropolitan Grand Master RW Bro Sir Michael Snyder.

We also read about our ‘Men at the Top’, our clubs and the first Lodges and Chapters to meet since the resumption. In this time of great uncertainty stay strong and stay safe and look out for those who need your help. I hope you enjoy this edition of Arena. Hopefully, it reminds you of our regularity,
integrity, respect, and kindness and makes you redouble your efforts and thus strengthening our Craft across London and beyond.

W Bro Rod Glyn-Thomas LGR
Editor, Arena
contact: arena@metgl.com

Note regarding Social Distancing: Brethren, please note that the photographs in this magazine were taken at different times, across different locations, within vastly differing sets of restrictions and before restrictions. Some photos have been altered for editing purposes (to make them fit!). Accordingly, there may be a variance in apparent restriction adherence across the magazine.

This article is part of the Arena Magazine, Issue 42 October 2020 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in the Arena Issue 42.