The Sovereign Grand Lodge of Portugal expresses its deep concern and sincere dismay at the grave effects caused by storm Kristin, among others, which recently struck our country, causing extensive human and material damage. In Portugal, this extreme phenomenon left a trail of destruction, affecting homes, infrastructure and whole communities, and leaving numerous families in a situation of extreme vulnerability and suffering.
Faced with this painful reality, we express our full solidarity with all the victims, their families and the communities affected. We must also acknowledge, with the highest regard, the tireless effort of all those who, with dedication and courage, have been on the front line of the response to this tragedy — civil protection personnel, security forces, health professionals, local officials, volunteers and citizens who, anonymously, mobilise to help those most in need.
In this context, the Sovereign Grand Lodge of Portugal, as well as every Masonic Lodge under its jurisdiction, has been mobilised since yesterday, organising work on the ground with discretion, a sense of duty and fraternal commitment, contributing within its means to support the victims of these storms and to ease the suffering. That support is being carried out through collaboration with local authorities and the provision of essential goods, food, water, sources of energy and medicines, whether by offering shelter, direct assistance or any other form of solidarity. Every act counts, every gesture makes a difference.
Since its foundation, our Obedience has sought to honour one of the noblest commitments of Freemasonry: to be present in the community, to stand beside people, families, the country and society, above all at times when solidarity, brotherly love and concrete action become inescapable imperatives. And however many we may be, we shall always be too few for the immense work that must be done.
Let us be, once again, through our individual and collective action, the living expression of the values we profess and which, for us Masons, are unshakeable. May our Light, in these difficult hours laden with uncertainty, serve as a guide and a comfort to those who face the darkness of loss and adversity. No help is small when it is born of a heart in solidarity.
The Hour is now!
Lisbon, 30 January 2026
The Grand Master,
Fernando José Pereira