Remembrance Day Breakfast Shoot
The Freemasons’ Day at Mendip Shooting Ground: A Tribute to the Fallen
In the heart of the picturesque Mendip Hills, a unique gathering took place that combined the rich traditions of Freemasonry with the camaraderie and skill of shooting sports. On the crisp morning of November 11th, a group of 15 Freemasons from the newly formed Mendip Masonic Shooting Club convened at Mendip Shooting Ground for an event that was both a sporting endeavor and a solemn tribute.
Morning of Remembrance
The day began with the members meeting for breakfast in the cozy clubhouse of the shooting ground. The atmosphere was warm and convivial, filled with the scents of freshly brewed coffee and the sounds of friendly banter. However, the mood shifted as the clock approached 11 AM.
At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the group paused for a minute’s silence. This poignant moment was dedicated to remembering those who had fallen in the line of duty across the centuries. The silence was a profound acknowledgment of sacrifice, reflecting the Freemasons’ commitment to the values of service and remembrance.
The Sport of Clay Shooting
Following the silence, the mood transitioned to one of focus and anticipation as the Freemasons prepared for their shooting session. Clay pigeon shooting, often seen as both a sport and a test of skill, provided the perfect activity to honor the precision, discipline, and teamwork that are emblematic of both military service and Masonic principles.
Each member took their turn, with safety officers ensuring that all protocols were observed. The sound of shotguns echoed across the valley, each blast followed by the clink of broken clays, symbolizing the transition from the solemnity of remembrance to the vibrant activity of the present. The shooters, varying in experience and including two non masons new to shooting, supported one another, offering tips and encouragement, embodying the Masonic ethos of brotherhood.
Concluding with Tea and Cake
The competitive yet friendly spirit of the morning’s activities gave way to relaxation as the group gathered back at the clubhouse. Here, they enjoyed a traditional British spread of tea and cake. The cake, a homemade delight, served as a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures that peace allows, contrasting with the morning’s reflective mood.
Conversations flowed freely, touching on everything from the day’s scores to plans for future club activities. This social time was crucial, strengthening bonds not just as sportsmen but as brothers in Freemasonry. They discussed potential charitable initiatives, reflecting the Masonic commitment to community service, perhaps inspired by the day’s earlier remembrance.
Reflections
The day at Mendip Shooting Ground was more than a sporting event; it was a microcosm of what the Freemasons stand for – remembrance, skill, fellowship, and service. Each member left with not only the satisfaction of a day well spent but also a renewed sense of purpose within their community and their lodge.
This gathering showcased how traditional activities like shooting can serve as a bridge between past sacrifices and present endeavors, all while fostering community spirit and preserving heritage. It’s events like these that keep the spirit of Freemasonry alive, adapting ancient traditions into modern contexts, ensuring that the values they uphold continue to resonate with each generation.
In the end, the day was not just about remembering the fallen but also about celebrating life, camaraderie, and the enduring values of Freemasonry. Future gatherings are eagerly anticipated with the next being the Christmas shoot on the 8th of December.
The event is open to non masons too, all welcome.
