A celebration of 60 years in Freemasonry for John Webb

The Goodwill Lodge celebrate one of their most esteemed members marking his remarkable achievement of 60 years in Freemasonry

The meeting of Goodwill Lodge No. 7904, held on Friday 7th November at Chingford Masonic Hall, was a special and well-attended occasion. The event was honoured by the presence of Paul Tarrant, Provincial Grand Master, escorted by Provincial retinue together with many Provincial Grand Officers, both present and past, who gathered to celebrate the remarkable milestone of 60 years in Freemasonry for John Webb, a Past Provincial Grand Master.

John Webb has enjoyed a long and distinguished Masonic career, culminating in his appointment as Provincial Grand Master and Provincial Grand Superintendent in 2005, offices which he held with distinction for ten years.

John was initiated into Goodwill Lodge in November 1965 and progressed through the offices to reach the Master’s Chair in 1971. Demonstrating his continued dedication to the Lodge, he later served again as Master in 1999 and most recently in 2025.

Over the years, John broadened his Masonic involvement by joining several other Lodges, where he also served in office and, in many cases, as Master. These Lodges include:

Bard of Avon Lodge No. 778

Essex Masters Lodge No. 3256

Bear and Ragged Staff Lodge No. 8527

Lodge of the Red Rampant Lyon No. 9843

In addition, John was granted Honorary Membership in a further eleven Lodges, reflecting the high regard in which he is held throughout the Province.

John’s Royal Arch career has been equally distinguished. He was exalted into King’s Cross Chapter No. 1732 in 1968 and went on to join several other Chapters, occupying the First Principals chair in many further demonstrating his commitment to the wider Masonic family.

In 2001 John was proud to receive the Distinguished Service to Essex Masonry Award for his commitment and influence within Essex Freemasonry, a recognition of the many years he dedicated to supporting the principles, growth, and charitable work of the Masonic community across the county.

The meeting was a splendid affair of respect to John, marked by a sense of grandeur and ceremony and acknowledging the significant contributions he has made to the Lodge and the wider Masonic community throughout his distinguished career.

The formal proceedings gave way to the festive board, where lively banter and good-natured conversation flourished among brethren, both old acquaintances and new. The atmosphere was one of warmth and camaraderie, reflecting the spirit and traditions of the Lodge.

It is noteworthy that Roy Rayner, another respected member of the Lodge, reached his own milestone of sixty years in Freemasonry in February 2026. As Roy is now unable to travel, John Webb made a special journey to Godmanchester in order to personally present Roy with his 60-year certificate. This thoughtful gesture highlights the enduring bonds and mutual respect shared among the brethren.

Photos:

Top: John Webb (sitting centre) Paul Tarrant (centre left) with officers and guests.

Left: Paul presenting certificate to John

Right: John in Godmanchester presenting Roy Rayner with his 60-year certificate.