The Worshipful Master’s Response

On Wednesday the 22nd of October 2025, Centenary Lodge No 7629 E.C. held its annual installation meeting and Worshipful Master Lucian Koh was installed into the chair of King Solomon according to ancient rites and ceremonies. After Masonic meetings, it is customary that brethren attend a Festive Board, a meal and gathering for brothers to partake in fraternity. During the Festive Board, a number of speeches are given honouring various institutions and individuals. One of particular import was the speech WM Lucian Koh delivered in response to the toast Immediate Past Master Lim Rong Sheng delivered.

The text is quoted below:

“Freemasonry has a rich tradition of fellowship, charity, and character-building. Each of us has benefited from the wisdom, guidance, and example of those who came before. As I assume this office, I am ever mindful that I stand on the shoulders of the many distinguished Brethren whose dedication and service have shaped this Lodge into what it is today.

Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt thanks to the Brothers who have so ably guided our Lodge through the past year and the years before—our Immediate Past Master and the past masters of centenary Lodge.

Supported by the past masters, WB Rong Sheng has wielded the gavel with wisdom, integrity, and dignity. Through his leadership, the Lodge has enjoyed harmony, progress, and literally - special wages and smoke. The path we now walk has been made smoother by his dedication, and we owe him a debt of gratitude for the countless hours, quiet sacrifices, and steady commitment he has given to the Craft. Brethren, while the gavel may now pass, the influence of a good Master never fades.

Tonight, we are honoured by the presence of the District Grand Master, his team of District Officers, representatives of our sister constitutions, as well as the Board of Installed Masters— your presence lends dignity and significance to this occasion, and we are truly grateful for the time and effort you have taken to be with us.

To the Board of Installed Masters and W. Brethren who presented pieces—we thank you sincerely for conducting this Installation with solemnity, precision, and grace. Your experience and commitment preserve the integrity of our ceremonies and ensure that I begin my term grounded in the best traditions of our Order.

To our District Officers and representatives of sister Constitutions—your guidance, leadership, and example serve as a steady light for all Lodges within our several Districts. You remind us that Freemasonry is not confined to our individual temples, but is part of a greater brotherhood united in purpose and service. Your dedication to upholding the standards of the Craft inspires us to do likewise.

More particularly, to RW DGM, It has been thirty long years since a Centenary Lodge’s Installation meeting was last graced by a seating District Grand Master— your presence today is truly historic. We are deeply grateful that you have taken the time to share in this important occasion.

As we look ahead to the coming year, I will align with the DGM’s 5 point vision of unity, membership growth, membership retention, internal engagement and external engagement, by focusing on 3 areas - Membership, Fellowship and Education.

•⁠ ⁠Membership: We all know that the lifeblood of any Lodge lies in its members. By working together to engage with quality candidates meaningfully, welcoming them into our fold, we not only want increase our numbers but also ensure that our members will be active and committed. This reflects District Grand Master’s call for both growth and retention.

•⁠ ⁠Fellowship: With harmony for its aim The bonds we share as Brothers are what make Masonry truly special. When we create opportunities for friendship, for unity, and for genuine brotherly love, we answer District Grand Master’s first priority—fostering unity among our Brethren. Fellowship strengthens us not only within the Lodge but also in the way we represent Masonry beyond these walls.

•⁠ ⁠Education: A Lodge thrives when its members grow in understanding and mastery—of ritual, of symbolism, and of the values that underpin our Craft. By investing in education, we not only aim for ritual and ceremonial excellence but also ensure that our members are inspired to carry Free Masonry into their daily lives, thus strengthening our engagement with the wider community.

Brethren, these three areas are not isolated. They support and reinforce one another. Work with me, and they will guide us through a year that is not only successful but also enriching.

And No Master can succeed alone. The strength of our Lodge lies in the teamwork, dedication, and harmony of our Officers. Tonight, I wish to pay special tribute to my Wardens and the Officers who will serve alongside me in the year ahead — your commitment, your labor, and your example set the rhythm by which the Lodge works. Together, we will turn plans into action, and vision into reality.

Brethren thank you for being with us here tonight and I hope you enjoy our Centenary style hospitality!”
- WM Lucian Koh, Centenary Lodge No. 7629

Pictured: IMP Lim Rong Sheng delivering a speech to WM Lucian Koh, of which the response is available above

A fresh digital image

Centenary Lodge is proud to present a refreshed digital presence across e-platforms including the website, Instagram, and Facebook accounts that we manage! We hope that this serves to educate the public on the virtues of Freemasonry and on the good work being done by all Freemasons in Singapore and beyond, including our many sister lodges and sister constitutions.

Onwards and upwards!