Founded 2007 • London

Gavel & Staff Lodge No. 9835

A warm, modern lodge for Toastmasters, Livery Company Beadles and friends who value tradition, fellowship and service to the community.

About the Lodge

Created by Toastmasters and Beadles who wanted a lodge with their own flavour, Gavel & Staff was consecrated in 2007 inside the Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall. We meet in London to celebrate fellowship, mentoring and charity.

  • Consecrated 26 November 2007
  • Rooted in professional ceremony and hospitality
  • Focused on personal growth and community support
Symbolism

Our badge unites the gavel of the Toastmaster and the staff of the Beadle against the Square and Compasses, celebrating duty and harmony.

Charity

From the RMBI to local initiatives, we champion causes that improve lives and give members a way to serve together.

Venue

Our meetings are held at Freemasons’ Hall, with festive boards hosted nearby for convivial dining.

Craft & Toastmasters

Public speaking expertise helps us deliver ceremonies with confidence and welcome visitors with warmth.

Our heritage

Born from perseverance, the lodge grew from an idea shared among colleagues into a thriving home for professionals who value excellence and fraternity.

Founded with 34 Toastmasters & Beadles Consecrated in the Grand Temple

Determined to build a lodge in their own style, the founders drafted a detailed plan for the Metropolitan Grand Master. Their persistence led to permission to petition the Grand Master and ultimately to the warrant granted in June 2007.

More than 700 brethren from across the UK and Europe filled the Grand Temple to witness the consecration led by the Metropolitan Grand Master. The ceremony showcased the precision and pageantry of our professions and set the tone for the lodge.

Our crimson and blue banner unites the lions of strength and service, set on the mosaic pavement beneath the Square and Compasses. The motto “In Unitate Stabilitas – In Stabilitate Vires” reminds us that unity brings stability and strength.

Events

Join us at our next meeting or social. We look forward to welcoming visitors.

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No events are scheduled yet. Please check back soon.

How to find us

Meetings take place at Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ.

Festive boards are usually held nearby at the DoubleTree by Hilton West End.

Freemasonry

A worldwide fraternity built on integrity, kindness and self-improvement. We explore timeless lessons through symbolism and ceremony while supporting our communities.

A supportive network
Integrity • Respect • Service

Men of good character learn to lead through service, friendship and reflection. Freemasonry is not a religion or political group; it is a community focused on making better people and, in turn, a better world.

  • Open dialogue and mentoring with supportive peers.
  • Opportunities to give back through structured charity.
  • Inclusive welcome for visitors and prospective members.
Centuries of heritage
Living traditions

Rooted in the medieval craft guilds, the modern fraternity grew through lodges that safeguarded ritual, learning and mutual support. Our lodge continues that lineage with ceremonies that blend precision and welcome.

Consecrated in 2007 at Freemasons’ Hall, Gavel & Staff brings together Toastmasters and Beadles who cherish ceremonial excellence.

Symbols and working tools
Square • Compasses • Light

Working tools such as the Square and Compasses remind us to act with fairness, restraint and compassion. Aprons, tracing boards and the mosaic pavement all convey lessons about balance and honour.

We explain these symbols in approachable language so visitors can enjoy their meaning from the first meeting.

Community and charity
Service in action

We champion fundraising for national and local causes, pairing donations with hands-on volunteering. Visitors often join us for raffles, collections and initiatives that brighten lives.

  • Support for the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution and London charities.
  • Mentoring and safeguarding training for lodge officers.
  • Opportunities to practise ceremony, welcome guests and serve together.
Resources to explore
Learn at your pace

Dip into trusted guides and films to understand Freemasonry before you visit. We recommend sharing these with friends or family who are curious about the craft.

Toastmasters connections

Many of our members are Toastmasters who bring polished public-speaking skills to lodge life. Clubs such as 104 London Speakers and 71 Cavalry & Guards have long supported the lodge.

Skill building

Practise evaluations, prepared speeches and impromptu speaking in a friendly setting.

Camaraderie

Grow alongside professionals who share a passion for communication and mentoring.

What to expect
  • Weekly or fortnightly club meetings with structured agendas.
  • Opportunities to take on roles that build leadership confidence.
  • Supportive feedback that helps you grow at your own pace.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers for visitors, new Masons and guests planning to attend our meetings.

Yes. Contact the Lodge Secretary so we can confirm the date, ensure the right regalia and dietary needs are covered, and greet you properly when you arrive.

Business attire is standard. If you are a Mason, please bring your apron and proof of membership. Visitors may borrow regalia—let us know in advance so we can prepare it.

Browse the resources tab above, then reach out to arrange a friendly chat. We are happy to explain the journey, introduce you to members and answer questions with no obligation.

Get in touch

Whether you are a visiting brother, a prospective member or a curious friend, we would love to hear from you.

Lodge Secretary
secretary@gavelandstaff.org.uk

For official lodge communications and visiting arrangements.

Worshipful Master
wm@gavelandstaff.org.uk

Questions about the lodge vision and upcoming ceremonies.

Director of Ceremonies
dc@gavelandstaff.org.uk

Protocol, ritual questions and support for visiting officers.

Charity Steward
charity@gavelandstaff.org.uk

Support our charitable initiatives and fundraising.

Treasurer
treasurer@gavelandstaff.org.uk

For dues, payments and financial queries.

General enquiries
info@gavelandstaff.org.uk

We are happy to answer any general or membership questions.