Woodend Epworth Lodge No. 5381 was consecrated as Liverpool Epworth Lodge on 3 November 1932. Following the amalgamation of Woodend Lodge into Liverpool Epworth Lodge, it became Woodend Epworth Lodge, preserving the histories and traditions of both Lodges.

As it approaches its centenary in 2032, the Lodge remains proud of its distinctive heritage and its historic connections with both the Methodist community and Liverpool Football Club. We are also well known for the warm welcome we offer to newcomers and visitors.

Our Methodist heritage

The Lodge emblem depicts the parish church of St Andrew in Epworth, North Lincolnshire. Epworth was the birthplace of John and Charles Wesley, whose father, the Reverend Samuel Wesley, served as Rector of the church.

The motto of the Lodge is Vive Hodie, which translates from Latin as Live Today.

The Methodist roots of Liverpool Epworth Lodge played an important part in shaping its early character. Liverpool Epworth Chapter, which was founded by members of the Lodge and shares the same emblem, adopted a different approach from the outset by allowing alcoholic refreshments for those who wished to partake.

The Lodge remains proud of this Methodist heritage and the part it has played in our history and identity.

A welcoming and varied Lodge

Over the years, the Lodge has been fortunate to attract an eclectic mixture of members from many different backgrounds. We continue to welcome new members who share an interest in Freemasonry, friendship and contributing positively to the Lodge and wider community.

One of the distinguishing features of Woodend Epworth Lodge is its tradition of regular lectures and presentations on subjects connected with Freemasonry.

Previous subjects have included Liverpool Freemasons involved in shipping and the sinking of the Titanic and Lusitania, as well as topics from further afield, including the American Civil War, George Washington and the symbolism found on the United States dollar bill.

Remembrance and historical research

For many years, under the direction of the Reverend Kenneth Cox, a senior member of the Lodge and Grand Lodge officer, the Lodge hosted the annual Remembrance Day Service at the magnificent war memorial within Liverpool Masonic Hall.

The Lodge also holds an ongoing research collection recording the known Freemasons from the Province of West Lancashire who lost their lives during the First World War.

Each individual is researched and, wherever possible, their biographical history and photographs are recorded for posterity.

Meetings and social life

Woodend Epworth Lodge is renowned for its friendly social gatherings and also meets informally during the summer months.

Our formal Lodge meetings are held on the first Friday in: October, November, December, February, March and April

The April meeting is normally the Lodge Installation.

Meetings take place at:

Liverpool Masonic Hall
22 Hope Street
Liverpool
L1 9BY

Those interested in joining Woodend Epworth Lodge are welcome to contact us. We can arrange an informal meeting with some of our members, giving you the opportunity to ask why they joined Freemasonry and, perhaps more importantly, why they have remained members.

W Bro T. Stanley Bridge, PPrGD

Bro C. H. Gordon Brown

W Bro Arthur Harrop, PPrGO

W Bro Henry Hughes, PPrGD (Ches)

Bro H. F. Hatcher

Bro J. J. Johnston

W Bro W. J. Lucas

Bro E. J. Lea

Bro I. E. McKenna

Bro D. J. Manuel

Bro Rev. T. M. Middleton, MA, PPrGC (Derbys)

Bro William Naylor

Bro W. T. Porter

Bro J. H. Petty Snr

Bro M. Verity

Bro J. Wesley Williams

W Bro T. J. Wivell, PPrAGStdB

WHAT IS FREEMASONRY

WHAT WE ARE

We are a unique members’ organisation that has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, we comprise members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds. 

We meet in our individual Lodges throughout the country where we have ceremonial traditions which encourage us both to be more tolerant and respectful and actively to fulfil our civic and charitable responsibilities; we also make time to eat, drink and meet together, and form lifelong friendships.

WHAT WE AIM FOR

To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Service – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join.

HOW WE WILL ACHIEVE THIS

Over the next 7 years, we will enhance our reputation as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join and broaden our membership across all age groups.

OUR VALUES

Our core values are the underlying principles behind who we are, what we stand for, and what we do. They are vital to understanding Freemasonry. 

INTEGRITY

Honesty, trustworthiness, honour, reliability, and conscientiousness form the foundation of a virtuous character. They foster trust, maintain integrity, and demonstrate commitment, ultimately leading to a life of strong principles and dependable actions.

FRIENDSHIP

Freemasonry gives members many opportunities to make a wide circle of friends for life who share common interests and values. It provides a bond of friendship and a sense of belonging. This promotes a feeling of enjoyment and fulfilment.

RESPECT

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has respected the beliefs of its members. It promotes an environment where diversity is valued. It is a space where different beliefs and backgrounds converge, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, tolerance and harmony.

SERVICE

Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.