Brotherhood, Charity and Tradition: Widows Sons Thailand Branding Ceremony 2025

By Matt O’Sullivan

An International Gathering in Pattaya

On 2 August, the Widows Sons Thailand Chapter welcomed Brothers from around the world to Pattaya for one of the most significant events in the Widows Sons calendar, the Branding Ceremony.

Held at the excellent Hop House Lake Mabprachan, the event brought together members from Thailand, the Philippines, Canada, the United States and other international chapters in a celebration of Brotherhood, tradition and charity.

While motorcycles may be what first bring many members together, the Widows Sons has always been about much more than riding. The organisation is built on the principles of Freemasonry, friendship, service and supporting worthy causes within the communities where we live and ride.

What Is a Branding Ceremony?

The Branding Ceremony represents the final step in becoming a fully branded member of the Widows Sons.

Widows Sons chapters can now be found throughout the world, and the branding process has become one of the most respected traditions within the organisation. Originally introduced by the Widows Sons Scotland Chapter in 2014, the ceremony symbolises commitment, Brotherhood and the values that unite Widows Sons members across different countries and cultures.

For those receiving their branding, it is a memorable milestone and one that many members regard as one of the proudest moments of their Widows Sons journey.

Giving Back Before the Celebrations

Before the evening’s branding activities began, attention turned to an equally important part of the day, supporting local children in need.

The Widows Sons invited children from the wonderful Take Care Kids foster home to join members at Hop House for a special presentation.

Representing Take Care Kids, Khun Gio accepted an initial donation of 30,000 THB from the Widows Sons Thailand Chapter to support the construction of a new boys’ accommodation wing, which is scheduled to begin development in the coming months.

Inspired by the generosity of the Thailand Chapter, members of the Widows Sons Philippines Chapter immediately added a further 15,000 THB to the donation. Additional contributions from Brothers attending the event increased the total amount raised to an impressive 50,000 THB.

The spontaneous generosity shown by members perfectly reflected the values of Freemasonry and the Widows Sons, demonstrating that Brotherhood extends far beyond motorcycles.

An Afternoon of Smiles

Following the donation presentation, the children enjoyed an afternoon with the visiting riders.

Chicken nuggets, chips and soft drinks were served, creating plenty of smiles and opportunities for conversation. Many of the children were fascinated by the motorcycles and the distinctive leather vests worn by members from different countries.

The afternoon provided a wonderful opportunity for visitors from overseas to connect with the local community and witness first-hand the important work being carried out by Take Care Kids.

To learn more about the incredible work undertaken by Take Care Kids, visit: www.facebook.com/TakeCareKidsOnlus

International Brotherhood

One of the unique aspects of the Widows Sons is the international nature of the organisation.

Although members may come from different countries, cultures and backgrounds, they share a common bond through Freemasonry and a passion for motorcycles.

The attendance of Brothers from the Philippines, Canada and the United States highlighted the strength of these international relationships and demonstrated how the Widows Sons continues to build friendships across borders.

Events such as this remind us that no matter where we come from, Brotherhood remains universal.

Thank You

Congratulations to President Jimmy T C Purvey and all members of the Widows Sons Thailand Chapter on a successful Branding Ceremony.

Special thanks also go to Paul Carnell and the entire team at Hop House Lake Mabprachan for their hospitality and support throughout the event.

For those looking for a great venue in the Pattaya area, Hop House continues to be a strong supporter of both the local community and charitable initiatives.

Visit Hop House here: www.facebook.com/hophousebrewing

Brotherhood. Charity. Tradition.

The Branding Ceremony was more than a celebration of membership. It was a reminder of what the Widows Sons stands for.

Brotherhood that crosses borders.

Charity that makes a difference.

Traditions that strengthen the bonds between members.

And above all, a commitment to leaving the community better than we found it.

We look forward to welcoming Brothers from around the world back to Thailand again soon.