Women In Freemasonry

The Order of Women Freemasons (OWF) is the oldest and largest Masonic organisation for women in the UK and works along the lines of regular male Freemasonry.  In a statement issued in 1999… the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) acknowledged the regularity and sincerity of women’s Freemasonry, although the UGLE does not officially recognise the OWF and their members.

Many of our own lodges meet in the same places as the men’s Orders and informal relations are cordial and co-operative. Similarly, there is a reciprocal agreement extended to members of UGLE holding their meetings on our premises.

Women of any race or faith can join our Order but must be 21 years or older, be of good character and believe in a Supreme Being.  Being formed in 1908 we have some 6,000 members, grouped into over 300 Craft Lodges operating in the UK and overseas.  Lodges meet a minimum of four times a year and there is a financial commitment which varies from lodge to lodge.

Lodge Filey Bay was formed following the closure of Lodge Haven No. 167 and Harbour Lodge No. 185, who were both meeting in the Filey. For many reasons, it was decided that it would be prudent to close both lodges and open a new combined Lodge at the Masonic hall here in Filey.
The Masters of both lodges duly handed back their Warrants and with much excitement on Saturday, 7 May 2022 welcomed the Consecrating Team led by RW Bro Joy Keitch, AGM of West Kent and Surrey to Filey. The new Warrant was read by The Grand Secretary, VW Bro Sylvia Major and presented to the new Master W Bro Margaret Barker PGR
Lodge Filey Bay No. 361 will meet on the fourth Sunday in October, the second Saturday in December, the fourth Saturday in March and the second Saturday in June (Installation).
The banner was designed by Bro Brenda Howarth and W Bro Val Ward PGR and was generously funded by W Bro Sandra Rickard. The night sky was chosen as it depicts the moon, representing the feminine and shows a map of the constellations as they appeared in our sky on the night of 7th May 2022 the date of our Consecration.