Gazette outstanding masonic career . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 february 2013 published by the freemasons of the province of durham the 1 promotions meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 9 the new provincial year book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Tuesday 15th January 2013 saw the start of a two-day visit to the Province of Durham by the Second Grand Principal of Supreme Grand Chapter, Most Excellent Companion George Pipon Francis, this being his fourth visit since taking office in 2005. The visit began in the most memorable fashion with the Amalgamation of two Sunderland-based Chapters: St John’s Chapter No80 and Ashburne Chapter No4348 which formed the Chapter of St John and Ashburne No80. ME Comp Francis, accompanied by five of the six Grand Standard Bearers, including our own EComp John David Watts, Provincial Director of Ceremonies (and Assistant Provincial Grand Master in the Craft) was keen to attend, this being the first ceremony of its kind that he had witnessed. The Convocation of St John’s Chapter was formally opened and the Most Excellent Second Grand Principal was escorted into the Chapter by Officers of Supreme Grand Chapter. The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, accompanied by a full Provincial Deputation, was then admitted to carry out the ceremony of Amalgamation. Once the amalgamating officers had taken post the ceremony began, at the conclusion of which the newly-formed Chapter of St John and Ashburne No80 emerged. CONTINueD ON PaGe 5 second grand principal visits province durham plays host to george pipon francis order of the secret monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8&9 The Most Excellent Second Grand Principal with five of the six Acting Standard Bearers
Transcript
Gazette
outstanding masonic career
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
february 2013
p u b l i s h e d b y t h e f r e e m a s o n s o f t h e p r o v i n c e o f d u r h a m
Tuesday 15th January 2013 saw the start of a two-day visit to the Province of Durham by the Second Grand Principal of Supreme Grand Chapter, Most Excellent Companion George Pipon Francis, this being his fourth visit since taking office in 2005.
The visit began in the most memorable fashion with the Amalgamation of two Sunderland-based Chapters: St John’s Chapter No80 and Ashburne Chapter No4348 which formed the Chapter of St John and Ashburne No80.
ME Comp Francis, accompanied by five of the six Grand Standard Bearers, including our own EComp John David Watts, Provincial Director of Ceremonies (and Assistant Provincial Grand Master in the Craft) was keen to attend, this being the first ceremony of its kind that he had witnessed.
The Convocation of St John’s Chapter was
formally opened and the Most Excellent Second Grand Principal was escorted into the Chapter by Officers of Supreme Grand Chapter. The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, accompanied by a full Provincial Deputation, was then admitted to
carry out the ceremony of Amalgamation. Once the amalgamating officers had taken post the ceremony began, at the conclusion of which the newly-formed Chapter of St John and Ashburne No80 emerged.
CONTINueD ON PaGe 5
second grand principal visits province durham plays host to george pipon francis
order of the secret monitor
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8&9
The Most Excellent Second Grand Principal with five of the six Acting Standard Bearers
2
CELEBRATIONS
Celebrating 50 years in the Craft
honour rolloctober to december 2012
John daVid todd darlington lodge no6158 initiated 1st october 1962
William roXby butterfield tow law lodge no3349 initiated 17th october 1962
harold butterfield tow law lodge no3349 initiated 17th october 1962
John brian chisholm amity lodge no3193 initiated 18th october 1962
selWyn smith beattie st andrews lodge no6217 initiated 6th november 1962
laurence patterson north pennine lodge no9713 initiated 10th november 1962
eric thompson castle lodge no6713 initiated 13th november 1962
barry funnell norman lodge lodge no1334 initiated 21st november 1962
John humerous leWis hadrian lodge no1970 initiated 4th december 1962
Jeffrey guy reaVley whitwell lodge no2104 initiated 11th december 1962
thomas meaKin redpath lumley lodge no5807 initiated 12th december 1962
henry albert pearson moseley lodge no3105 initiated 12th december 1962
Kenneth parKin petrie beacon lodge no6891 initiated 4th december 1952
cyrus leslie heard stanhope lodge no3520 initiated 10th december 1952
Celebrating 60 years in the Craft
masonic mentoringWhat maKes a good mentor?
What have all these people in common? James Arthur, ITV’s X-Factor 2012 winner, Ricky Martin winner of The BBC’s Apprentice 2012, Prince William and someone starting a new job? The answer is, they have all benefited from having a mentor.
Mentoring in its most basic form is the informal transmission of information and/or support from a mentor (a “wise and supportive guide”) to a protégé. It is an ages old, tried and tested method of support and guidance which is widely used throughout commerce, education and beyond and it is intended that this system be utilised to benefit Freemasonry. This is achieved by the appointment of Lodge Mentors who would be responsible for implementing their Lodge’s mentoring scheme.
Are you a Mentor or a Protégé? I suspect that you are both but not at the same time. During your Masonic career you have asked a variety of questions as to what to do next or how to conduct yourself in that role. The answer came from your Masonic friends or from your Mentor. When you were asked the same questions you gave similar answers and you became the Mentor. Such is the nature of teaching and being taught.
As we progress through the various offices of our order we learn new skills and gain valuable knowledge. This experience applies to all ranks
within all orders of Freemasonry, even in the highest echelons. If we are unsure about what to do and when to do it, we ask or are told by someone who knows. Being left in the dark is both embarrassing and definitely not Masonic. The Mentor’s function is to set such situations right.
The office of Lodge Mentor has become an important role in many Lodges in recent years and resulted in improved rates of recruitment, retention and retrieval. When new members enjoy their Freemasonry they are likely to encourage their friends to join and when re-joining members are well looked after they recover their enthusiasm for the Craft.
So what is a Mentor?He is an experienced Brother willing to share his knowledge with a less experienced Brother in a relationship of mutual trust and respect.
Using this maxim both Mentor and Protégé will gain a valuable insight into the meaning of our order and become more knowledgeable thus enriching their understanding of all that Freemasonry means.
Grand Lodge has acknowledged the importance of the Lodge Mentor by enabling Lodges, if they wish, to appoint him as an
Additional Officer of the Lodge with a collar and jewel. The jewel is two chisels in saltire, the chisel representing education.
The Lodge Mentor is not expected to carry out the actual mentoring himself, unless he so desires, but to appoint Personal Mentors and ensure they are supported in that role. So it is a co-ordinating and monitoring role.
Mentoring should occur at all stages of Masonic development so that a
greater understanding of the tenets and principles of its
teachings can be acquired.
It is up to each and every one of us to do our utmost to promote
Mentoring in all its forms, so that no Brother is made to feel alone or
unwanted. Perhaps then we can stem the flow of resignations of unhappy Brethren.
The Province of Durham has a team of Mentoring Advisers in place led by the
Provincial Mentor, Keith Robinson. The Mentoring Advisers are available to support
and encourage Lodge Mentors as well as to answer queries as the system unfolds.
The Office of Lodge Mentor will increasingly become more important as the role evolves but the Province of Durham is well placed to meet these challenges because of the strong foundations already laid.
3
CELEBRATIONS
Stanley Masonic Hall has over the years recognised and celebrated many goals and achievements by Lodges as well as individual Freemasons.
At the regular meeting of St Andrews Lodge No6217 held on Tuesday 6th November 2012, an ordinary Freemason with an extraordinary Masonic career was recognised for yet another landmark in his Masonic life.
Selwyn was presented with a 50 year Certificate from the Provincial Grand Master RtWBro Norman Eric Heaviside.
At this presentation there was representation from numerous Masonic Orders. The Craft was as the Provincial Toast list, headed by the Provincial Grand Master, WBro George Clark the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, the four Assistant Provincial Grand Masters. WBro Prof Denovan Wilson as the head of Royal and Select Masters and as the Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Mark Master Masons. WBro Ken Park as head of Rose Croix, WBro Alan Hall as head of Knights Templar, WBro David Railson as head of the Knights Templar Priests, WBro Michael Dawes, Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Northumberland Province and WBro Norman Milburn, Head of the Royal and Select Masters Order in the Province of Cumberland.
They all attended to acknowledge the work and commitment that WBro Selwyn Smith Beattie, has and continues to give to them as a member of each of the orders they represent.
The PGM outlined this amazing career path through Masonry by WBro Selwyn who holds Grand Rank equivalent in just about every order of which he is a member of. He noted that he was the head of the Royal & Select Order for some fourteen years until that role allocated recently to WBro Prof Denovan Wilson. He was Primus Head of the Durham District when the Northern Counties were split
into separate Districts, co-terminus with Craft Provinces in 1997.
What was not fully disclosed that evening were some of the interesting issues surrounding his life, not only as a Freemason but his past and current contributions to the community where he has lived for the majority of his life.
Selwyn studied Fine Arts at Durham University and trained as a designer and maker of stained glass. You can still see his mastery of those skills in the wonderful stained glass windows should you visit St Andrews Church in Stanley, All Saints Church, Pelton or had visited St.Nicholas Church, Hetton-le-Hole prior to it being demolished.
He was a teacher for some thirty-five years and retired as Head teacher in 2000. It was during his teaching career that WBro Selwyn made notable contributions outside the school curriculum as a representative on various teaching bodies and examination boards.
On his retirement he joined the Rotary Club
in Stanley and served as the club’s President and indeed been club Secretary for the last ten years.
Not only has he taken on these roles but he has continued his research into the achievements of both operative and speculative Masons.
In relation to the former, his research work was published and exhibited in Durham Cathedral. The ‘Craftsmen for Christ’ Exhibition was aimed at children as part of their education on visiting that amazing example of Masons’ work and how it was completed. Selwyn, however, condensed that information into a presentation format that he has delivered to numerous Lodges.
His research into the latter led him into using his artistic talents into the design and production of Lodge Banners. However, the first banner he ever produced was for the ‘Mothers Union’ of St. Andrews Church where for many years he was a Church Warden.
His artistic work is still sought after and he has several projects that he is currently working on for Lodges within the Province of Durham.
When asked why he joined and got so involved in Freemasonry he stated “I just loved researching the history of Masons work on buildings and structures that we can still enjoy and wonder at today but also the development of the Freemasonry movement and in particular the various degrees that recount Masonic events”. He added “Education is itself a wonderful thing so to be part of being able to help educate others is reward enough for me”.
The celebrations continued at the Festive Board where the brethren received Selwyn’s response to that evening’s event which went down well with his listening audience, as did the odd glass or two of gin. Well done Selwyn, a man enjoying his Freemasonry, in particular, and life in general.
outstanding masonic career celebrated Where did he find the time?
2012 has been a phenomenally successful year for Autism4Heroes. With the addition of the money raised at Burdon Road the group have raised over £12,000 for the Help For Heroes charity since February 2012.
Their year ended on a high with an appearance at Phoenix House Recovery Centre at Catterick Garrison. Autism4Heroes were given the honour of performing for the wounded, injured and sick Soldiers and then had the opportunity to chat with the people for whom they have been working so hard to raise money.
Following this, Autism4Heroes were shortlisted to appear in the final of a regional youth award, The Truth About Youth Positive Behaviour Awards (PoSBOs) at the Centre For Life in Newcastle. After performing for the sell-out crowd the group were awarded the PoSBO Best Youth Project Award. To have won this award ahead of mainstream peers is a marvellous achievement and one which, it is hoped, will propel Autism4Heroes to greater heights.
In 2013 Autism4Heroes hope to build on the fantastic relationships they have made with, amongst others, Help For Heroes and The Freemasons. Due to the success of the evening St John’s is now considering holding this as an annual event for the Help For Heroes charity being held on the Saturday evening before Remembrance day.
4
CHARITY
Back in November at Burdon Road Masonic Hall, WBro Ed Chandler, the Worshipful Master of St John’s Lodge No80, along with WBro Ken Payne, St John’s Charity Steward, teamed up with Autism4Heroes project leader Jak Dixon a member of ESPA (Education and Support for People with Autism) who have established a band called Autism4Heroes, to present a fundraising “Night For Heroes” on Remembrance weekend.
Autism4Heroes are an independent group based at ESPA College in Sunderland and comprises of young people with autism, families and friends.
The project aims to teach the students, how to focus on entertainment as a way of learning, develop their personal skills and understand what support for charities involves. In this case to raise money for ‘Help for Heroes’.
A Night For Heroes brought together local bands to present an evening of live entertainment along with a quiz, raffle and the ever-popular bottle tombola! The bands that performed on the evening were The Endgame, My Latest Gadget, Autism4Heroes and Autismums (made up of the mothers of the autistic youths in the main band).
With an attendance of just over 100 people the event proved to be a roaring success and when all of the coins had been counted over £1,700 had been raised for the troops. This included a very generous £200 donation made by Worshipful Master Ed Chandler on behalf of St John’s Lodge, which had had been raised by WBro Ken Payne performing Harmony whilst visiting lodge meetings throughout the Province and achieving donations from the various lodge members and their visitors.
burdon road rocks! heroes benefit from successful eVening
CHAPTER
5
CONTINueD frOM frONT PaGeThe ceremony was executed in fabulous style and decorum, providing a memorable impression for the one hundred Companions attending.
The Convocation was followed by the amalgamation banquet where Companions enjoyed an excellent meal and the friendship of those attending.
EComp Rev. Michael Sydney Snowball, Third Provincial Grand Principal, made specific reference to the friendship within the Chapter; this aspect reflected in the Chapter crest which features the word “Amicitia” and two hands shaking. In the words of ME Comp George Francis, “There is lots of spirit and optimism in Royal Arch Masonry and in particular, this Chapter”.
The following day the Second Grand Principal was treated to a guided tour of the Provincial museum by the Provincial Grand Curator WBro Tom Coulson and, following lunch, visited the world heritage site of Durham Cathedral.
On this occasion he was guided by EComps Stanley Fitches and Kenneth Kent who are volunteer stewards at the cathedral. The day was rounded off with a visit to Vane Tempest Chapter of Installed First Principals No4261 where ME Comp Francis was to present the lecture.
Vane Tempest Chapter meets in Seaham and is a relatively young Chapter which will reach its 10th anniversary in 2014. Before its inception a
number of Companions facing a long distance to travel to the nearest research Chapter started to discuss forming their own Chapter in the north of the Province. EComp Ellwood Potts, then Deputy Grand Superintendent and Assistant Provincial Grand Master, was a guiding light in the process but sadly died before the Chapter was consecrated.
The Chapter was consecrated on 10th July 2004 by the then Most Excellent Grand Superintendent Dr Alan Martin Davison. The list of founders is a venerable roll of many leading Companions past and present.
In recognition of the direction and encouragement EComp Ellwood Potts played in the formation of the Chapter, the Companions considered it entirely appropriate
to hold an annual lecture in his honour.
An invitation was extended to the Second Grand Principal to present the ninth annual Ellwood Potts Memorial Lecture.
This was duly accepted as the ME Comp Francis was to be in the Province for the amalgamation meeting in Sunderland the previous day. The necessary arrangements were made to bring the
meeting forward to coincide with his visit.
The Second Grand Principal delivered the lecture entitled “How do we add more drama and enjoyment to Royal Arch Ceremonies and Meetings?” This lecture included some controversial and thought-provoking ideas and stimulated much discussion, perhaps continuing in the Province long after he returned to London.
Before closing the proceedings, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, Norman Eric Heaviside proudly presented the Second Grand Principal with a cheque from the Provincial Grand Chapter of Durham for £36,469.74 towards the Royal College of Surgeons 2013 Appeal.
This far exceeded the target set for the Province and reflected the generosity of its Companions and Brethren.
On receiving the cheque, the Second Grand Principal commented on the optimism and enthusiasm demonstrated by the Province and remarked that the bursary would assist in the ground-breaking research being undertaken by the RCS.
Following the closure of the Convocation the Companions attended the festive board where, as a memento of the occasion and as a sign of appreciation, the Chapter presented the Second Grand Principal with a hand-made gavel.
The Amalgamation Team along with the Members of Chapter of St John and Ashburne No80
The Grand Superintendent handing over the cheque to George Pipon Francis
6
PROVINCE
In May 2012 a series of proposals were presented to The Provincial Grand Master and the Provincial Executive by WBro David Green which would substantially change the format of the Provincial Year Book into a more user-friendly reference tool.
The proposed changes would also be more cost-effective with respect to the spiralling costs of the make-up of the existing format.
The Executive Committee was in agreement with the changes and work on the new format commenced in August 2012.The core of the team comprises: The Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro Phil Rann, together with WBro Dave Green (Project manager), assisted by WBro Steve Barry, WBro Rod Scott and WBro Graham Boddy.
The format of the new Year Book is A5 which is taller in size but less bulky than the current edition thus fitting ‘flatter’ in your briefcase. The information shown in previous books is incorporated into the new design with the new book having fewer pages as the new size allows us to display two Lodges / Chapters per page, side-by-side.
The team has put a great deal of effort into making the Year Book more user friendly by paying attention to the legibility, specifically with regard to the font style, size, and general layout. The colour-coded pages have been
replaced by colour bars at the top of each page; Craft will be blue, Chapter magenta, Mark green the other orders yellow. The new book will also include improved information on other orders and, on that point; we must thank the representatives from the other orders for their assistance in this transformation.
This year, for the first time, all Lodges, Chapters and other orders have had the option to include the Secretary’s email address to aid communication.
Craft and Chapter pages have been compiled from the National “Adelphi” database. It is essential that this database is kept up-to-date and in this respect we all have a role to play by ensuring that we inform our Lodge Secretary and Scribe E of any changes in circumstances,
for example address changes, telephone number, email address, etc., so that he in turn can inform Provincial Office of the change.
The importance of producing the Year Book as an easy-to-use reference guide has been paramount throughout this project and it is hoped that you will find the new Year Book to be improved and in a user-friendly format. It has already
proved to be a success with advertisers where we have been able to double the numbers taking out advertisements.
Following the last Installation of the year, on 27th December, the team finalised all the relevant details over the festive period in order that the final document could be sent to the printers in January 2013.
Many Lodges have asked for extra copies this year and we have ordered accordingly. If you did not place an order for extra numbers and would like more please contact Stacey at
the new provincial year book a slimmer looK for 2013
Heortnesse Lodge No4639 have a poignant way of reminding members and visitors of our respect for those Brethren who are unable to join us at our Festive Boards.
Their ‘top table’ in Hartlepool’s Raby Road Masonic Hall is always set with a space, including the chair, ‘reserved,’ symbolically, for those who for various reasons are unable to attend. The words on the mounted citation read:
“WISHING ABSENT BRETHREN A SPEEDY RETURN AND BEING EVER MINDFUL OF OUR BRETHREN IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE.”
Need we say more?
speedy return absent brethren not forgotten
Provincial Office either by email on [email protected] or by telephone 0191 567 5365.
Treasurers and Secretaries take note - Since the introduction of new banking regulations, considerable difficulty has been experienced with our banks accepting cheques with the payee not being correctly titled, so please take care to ensure your cheques are correctly made out to ‘Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham.’
£7,600 was distributed to12 local charities by Stockton Freemasons at the Tenth anniversary of Freemasonry in the Community evening at the Masonic Hall, Stockton on Friday 5th October.
The money was donated by different Lodges as part of the ongoing national `Freemasonry in the Community` project initiated by the Duke of Kent in 2002. Each Charity representative explained to the audience of nearly 90 how the money would be spent in helping to meet the specific needs of people of all ages.
The Lodge of Justice took on the challenge back in 2002, of organising each of these presentation evenings, all of which have been well received by the Brethren of Stockton and also the recipient charities and good causes.
To hear of the fantastic work being done by so many charity workers day in and day out is awe-inspiring and the Freemasons of Stockton were really pleased to help in this small way.
The Charities supported on this occasion were:Butterwick Hospice, Cash for Kids, Prostate Cancer, Daisy Chain, McMillan Nurses, Great North Air Ambulance, Stockton Amateur Swimming Club, Positive Strokes, SSAFA, Martin House Hospice, Oak Tree Primary School, Church View & Mill Lane Community School.
stockton masons support local charitiesstocKton fic at it’s best
8
OTHER ORDERS
The Order of the Secret Monitor or Brotherhood of David and Jonathan, embodies a series of three ceremonies, which constitutes one of the most significant international fraternities to be found in Freemasonry.
Its teachings are embraced by Brethren from all the religions of the world, is governed by the Grand Conclave of the Order, from Mark Masons Hall, 86 St James’s Street, London.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE ORDERThe basis of this distinctive Order is framed around the scriptural readings taken from 1 Samuel, chapter 20, around 1000BC and recorded in the Jewish history of the Bible. Such selfless acts of Jonathan described in the Old Testament demonstrate an unparalleled strength of loyalty and brotherly ove, that of placing the interests of another above those of oneself: the intrinsic attribute that should characterise every virtuous Freemason.
The order is devoted to the practical elucidation of the Masonic virtue of brotherly love and is the only order in Freemasonry, where each Conclave is required to appoint four
visiting Deacons who are deputed to maintain contact between meetings with every Brother allocated to their care either by letter, visitation or telephone, “to afford assistance and support to a brother in time of sorrow and distress and to search out and warn him if he be exposed to danger, secret or apparent”
At each meeting of the Conclave a roll-call of members is held, the visiting Deacons present a report on their contact with the absentees, the reason for their absence, and if they are in need of help in any way whatsoever.
BIBLICAL STORYThis order in Freemasonry is based on the friendship of David and Jonathan. The land of Canaan, or Israel, as it is known today, is a tract of hill country with a narrow coastal belt on the
Eastern Mediterranean. When the children of Israel returned to Canaan from Egypt (circa 1320 BC) they found the country parceled-out into petty kingdoms, whose people regarded the Israelites as interlopers. There was perpetual warfare between rival tribes for over 200 years but the Israelites, who were ruled by Judges, ultimately had possession of a block of territory from Dan to Beersheba
From this period on, we have the kingdom of Saul, and then ultimately David; the son of Jesse the Bethlehemite. David distinguished himself not only as a warrior but also as a musician.
His encounter with Goliath is known to all of us. His success, however, made Saul jealous, and with the help of Jonathan, David was saved from the treachery of Saul. The shooting of arrows is part of this story, as well as the
various refuges occupied by David. Jonathan visited David in these refuges and renewed the covenant between them. Jonathan was killed in a disastrous battle against the Philistines near Mount Gilboa (1018 BC). Saul committed suicide, and David was finally accepted as king by the people of Judah.
ORIGINS OF THE ORDERIt is generally acknowledged by Masonic scholars that the fraternity of David and Jonathan or the Order of Brotherly Love, originated in Holland where a secret Masonic society of that name was functioning before 1778; but it was to New York, whence it was
carried by immigrants, where it appears to have had its initial development.
Few, if any records were kept at the outset as it was conferred as a ‘side degree’ without fee by one Mason upon another thus spreading throughout the Republic in a variable and simplified form with different titles – the “Trading Degree” being one common alternative. Numerous references were made to this degree during the nineteenth century with the Order of Brotherly Love being incorporated in Scotland as the 16th degree of the multifarious system of the early Grand Rite, while a version was printed in the Ritual of Freemasonry, 1835.
However, the present-day Order emerged through the efforts of a Dr Issacher Zacherie, an Englishman who served as a surgeon on the Federal side during the American Civil War.
Following the end of hostilities he settled in California and developed his Masonic career, gaining this new degree. Around 1875 he returned to England, establishing a practise in Mayfair, London, and on taking up his Masonic duties he met several other prominent Brethren who were also in possession of the degree.
They subsequently resolved to form a Conclave with the consequence that a Grand Council of the Order of the Secret Monitor or Brotherhood of David and Jonathan was formed under the doctor’s leadership in July 1887.
The first Festival of the Order was held soon after on the 15th July 1887 at the Victoria Hotel, Northumberland Ave, London, SW where we also had the inauguration meeting of the Alfred Meadows Conclave No 1 which having worked without a warrant until the following November was then issued with its warrant.
On the same day “University of London” Conclave No2 was founded; its warrant was
the order of the secret monitoror brotherhood of daVid and Jonathan
9
OTHER ORDERS
dated September 15 1887. At the same time an application was made for “True Friendship” Conclave was numbered 4 with, No 3 being reserved for “Star of the East”, a Conclave to be formed at Penang in Malay.
The Order rapidly extended but it was not until 1903 when the Order reached the North East when Skyrack Conclave No32 was consecrated at Leeds 24th July of that year,
Just two years later True Friendship, which was reported dormant in 1893, was reconstituted as “Claro True Friendship” Conclave No 4 in Harrogate 29th July 1905 and assumed the seniority of its predecessor. (Two Conclaves much involved in the establishment of the Order in the North East)
It is perhaps not surprising that the success of Bro Zacharie’s Secret Monitor organisation should arouse jealousy and competition. The Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees and the Sovereign College of Allied and Christian Degrees for America were both concerned. It should be pointed out that by then the Order of the Secret Monitor in England was working the three degrees, namely Induction, the Princes Degree and the Chair Degree of Supreme Ruler: whilst in America only one degree was practiced.
The outcome of these discussions was that the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees took the Order of the Secret Monitor under its aegis in 1898, but nevertheless, the original Grand Council of the Order of the Secret Monitor remained in existence. However, in 1931 the whole matter was settled when RWBro Napier-Clavering was the Grand Supreme Ruler of the Order of the Secret Monitor as well as the Grand Master of the Allied Masonic Degrees, and the latter Council officially recognised the former as a separate Grand Council.
At Grand Conclave Meeting on 13th November 2008 The Most Worthy Grand Supreme Ruler MWBro Peter Glyn Williams and MWBro Allen Surratt Past Grand Supreme Ruler of the Allied Masonic Degrees, United States of America, in a very solemn and moving ceremony signed a Concordat which enables a greater level of co-operation and interaction between the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees
of the United States of America and the Grand Conclave of the Order of the Secret Monitor.
As an item of interest, those members of the Allied Masonic Degrees who possess an old bar of the jewels for each degree may find that it also includes the first degree jewel of the
Order of the Secret Monitor – indeed some may include the Royal Ark Mariner Jewel. Another interesting ‘side’ degree associated with the Order is that of the Order of the Scarlet Cord and the Trading Degree. These are truly ‘side’ degrees and of interest to the Masonic historian.
When WBro Claude Stewart PPJGD of The St Cuthbert Lodge No3417 and Secretary of Darlington’s Freemasons’ Hall Management Committee was called to the Hall and asked to examine three boxes left by an unknown man in a builder’s van back in October, he couldn’t have known what he was about to discover.
Amongst the many old and interesting ritual books, records of Lodge etiquette and other historical documents, two of the most intriguing were:
a.) The original Minute book of Ionic Lodge No3210 which still meets in Bradford, W Yorks andb.) An ‘Illuminated Address’ from the Lodge of Good Fellowship No276 which also still exists at Chelmsford in Essex, and given to WBro Ebenezer Shedd in May 1907.
The first entry in the Minute book is similarly dated 1907 (12th February) and covers the Consecration of the Lodge.
Claude made contact with the Secretaries of both Lodges who were delighted to learn of
the respective finds. The Minute Book had apparently ‘disappeared’ along with other treasured historic documents, having been entrusted to a Brother who had volunteered to write a centennial history of Ionic Lodge. The ‘Address,’ bound in leather and lettered and tooled in gold leaf, recognises WBro Shedd’s services as Lodge Secretary and mentions the presentation of an accompanying Silver Salver. Guess what wasn’t in any of the boxes?!
Representatives of Ionic Lodge attended St Cuthbert’s December meeting and were delighted to have their valuable Lodge record returned.
The ‘Address’ is on its way back to Essex, but this time in a highly identifiable Royal Mail van and under the terms of their recorded delivery arrangements.
The remaining contents of the boxes are being researched by the Curators of Darlington’s Masonic Library, WBro Tony Currie PAsstPGM and WBro Howard Bainbridge PAGDC with advice and assistance from WBroTom Coulson, Durham’s Provincial Grand Archivist. Theories on how such diverse material came to be in the boxes and its (presumably local) source abound. Watch this space
lost, found and returned historic records deliVered
10
LOCAL NEWS
At the Annual General Meeting of the Benevolent Committee in March 2012. WBro John Lockhart Webster, former Deputy Chairman, was elected as Chairman and WBro John David Watts elected as the new Vice Chairman.
The first report by the new Chairman advised the members that following detailed consideration ‘Hanover Housing’ the then current managing agent of the residential properties at Peter Stracey House Sunderland and Boundary Court Bishop Auckland would be given notice that the renewal of a Management contract would be put out to tender.
The task to oversee the tender, selection, transfer and implementation process was allocated to WBro Edwin Jeffrey, newly elected Treasurer of the Benevolent Committee, and WBro Richard Tucker, Chairman of the newly formed Estates Sub Committee.
The selection process being completed initially by John Webster and Richard Tucker, the final decision was concluded by John Watts, Edwin Jeffrey and Jim Forster.
‘Nest Egg Homes’ who manage properties successfully throughout the North East and are based in Thornaby on Tees, was selected as the preferred Management Company.
During the selection process although there was no requirement that a Freemason be awarded the contract it transpired that the Managing Director of Nest Egg Homes who will be the lead person for the Management of our properties is Duncan Belton a Past Master of Dunelm Lodge No4079.
There was a seamless changeover from the 1st October 2012 of Hanover Housing to Nest
new housing management eVerybody need a little nest egg
Egg Homes, mainly due to the appreciated cooperation and assistance of Colin Garbutt, Regional Manager of Hanover Housing.
There followed the selection of manager at both housing sites. Graham Scott an experienced manager with a background in Anchor Housing was chosen as the manager for Peter Stracey House. Graham has already introduced a number of welcomed changes to the way the property is managed and has successfully implemented several cost-saving initiatives.
Robert Stephenson was appointed as manager of Boundary Court. Robert also has an extensive background in social housing and managing properties in Birmingham and Darlington. Prior to joining Nest Egg Homes, Robert worked for Three Rivers Housing Association in Barnard Castle. He is also the current Master of St Oswald Lodge No4260.
The final change to the management of the estates is the addition to the Estates Committee of WBro Derek Dunn, who joinedthe Estates Committee who joined the team after his recent appointment as liaison officer for Peter Stracey House.
With the new management company and supportive team members in place it is believed that both sites will continue to provide safe, affordable and efficient living accommodation to all residents. An update will be reported at the AGM in March 2013.
BOUNDARY COURTAs we note the changes in the management of accommodation in the North of the Province of Durham it may be prudent to give an update of such provision in the South namely, Boundary Court, Bishop Auckland.
How time flies, as it is now six years since Boundary Court was completed and its first residents took up occupancy within this forty nine apartment complex which is recognised as a premises of high standard of living with support services on site.
Each apartment includes an entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom.
Services include a laundry and drying room, hairdressing salon and assisted bathroom.There is a guest apartment for anyone wishing to stay with resident/s for a few days.
WBro Jim Forster and his wife Margaret are honorary members of Boundary Court and are and continue to be an integral part of the Boundary Court family.
WBro Jim states that it has been a privilege and pleasure to introduce people to Boundary Court, to show them around and if interested in becoming a resident to get them settled into their preferred apartment.
At the latest meeting of the Benevolent Committee it was announced that currently there are two apartments available for residence.
Mrs Margaret Forster added that there are approximately eighty residents occupying the apartments. They enjoy their own privacy and engage in social activities.
“It’s so rewarding to see people living in a safe, friendly environment and I particularly like being part of various coffee morning and outings that residents organise which adds to the quality of life.”
WBro Norman Matthews and his wife Joyce, were among the first to take up residence at Boundary Court and are delighted with their decision and would recommend Boundary Court to those considering a move.
So if you or someone you know may be interested or would like to view, then you are invited to contact WBro Jim Forster direct by phoning 01388 603411 or Provincial Grand Lodge on 0191 5675365.
11
CHARITY
The scheme continues to see a steady stream of donations being received from both individual donations and Lodge collections.
It never ceases to amaze how generous the Brethren of the Province of Durham are when it comes to responding to Festival Appeals as well as giving support to other local and national charitable causes. It has to be acknowledged that this is also being done against a background of a very inclement financial climate.
The Administrators of this scheme are in frequent contact with other Provinces via Grand Charity in London and wish you all to know that it is clear that the Province of Durham is doing well in starting to build up funds in preparation for the start of our next Festival which is to be for the benefit of the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys.
We receive donations from Lodges and individuals on a weekly basis and these are processed via the London Office and credited to the donor’s Lodge record of giving. Lodge
continuous giving scheme oVer £250,000 raised as at 31 december 2012
“collective” donations are greatly appreciated; they reflect the true spirit of Masonic charitable giving but there is always more we wish we could do. No amount given to a charitable cause can ever be considered enough but we all make donations in the hope and belief that however large or small the amount – it helps. Any amount is gratefully received and faithfully applied.
We are pleased to report that around 700 brethren are now making individual donations on a regular basis via Direct Debit. Donations in this way have an added value - Gift Aid - a tax rebate which is added to the donation (for every qualifying £1 given a further £0.25 is added by HM Government) Gift Aid is a boost for charitable giving and every member of the Province of Durham is encouraged to make regular donations to the scheme observing the facility of gift Aid where applicable. It does not matter how little or how large the donation is – that is up to the individual and remember your donation is entirely confidential. You can stop or start at anytime you wish – you have complete control over the amount and
frequency you wish to donate.
We send details of cumulative totals of donations out to each Lodge on a quarterly basis. This information shows simply all those who are making regular contributions and the cumulative total credited to the Lodge.This information should be shared by the Secretary with the Charity Steward who in turn should encourage all to make regular contributions. Lodges should by now be in a position to be able to assess the progress made by their members and it would be a challenging, but not unachievable, objective for each Lodge to have at least 50% of its members making regular donations by the end of 2013.
Some Lodges have already achieved this and the efforts of their Brethren and their Charity Stewards are already noted and commended.Plans are in hand to arrange more liaison with Lodges in the coming months to promote the scheme further and details will be announced in the very near future.
In the meantime, there is a plentiful supply of donation forms, which will be sent out if required. Please feel free to contact us at Provincial office for details or further information about the scheme.
As part of Durham Benevolence help to local non-Masonic charities, when a request was received from Reverend George Liddle, the Rector of St Andrew’s Church in Blackhall, asking for a donation toward the restoration and installation of the Church Bell, it was considered a very worthy cause.
The Bell had been removed from the tower many years ago, being unsound and in need of major restoration.
In early 2011, the Rector started to gather quotations to repair the headstock and have the bell restored to its rightful place and, when he realised that the repair bill was going to be in excess of £9,300, he started the appeal to
for whom the bell tolls non-masonic grant helps repair church bell
raise the funds. With the help of £500 donated by Durham Benevolence the fundraising is now complete and work has started with the fitting of cable and masonry; the head stock and bell should be in place in the very the near future.
The church bell has always been considered to be an integral part of both the Church and the community, and represents as it were the voice of the Community Church. Calling people to worship, ringing out at a variety of major occasions, including baptisms, weddings and funerals.Pictured Right: WBro John Leadley and WBro John
Graham presented the £500 cheque on behalf of
Durham Benevolence to Revd George Liddle who
thanked the Freemasons of Durham for their generosity.
12
PROVINCE
The annual promotions meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham is regarded by many as the Provincial Christmas party.
The 2012 meeting and party were held on Friday 30th November at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring.
RWBro Norman Eric Heaviside, Provincial Grand Master, presided and opened Provincial Grand Lodge at 6pm assisted by the Provincial Grand Wardens Gordon Brewis and Nigel Foster with over 500 Brethren present, including the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, all four Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, various Past Craft Executives, The Second and Third Provincial Grand Principals in the Royal Arch, both Assistants to the Grand Principals and Heads of Order from the Mark Degree, Knight Templar, Royal Order of Scotland, Rose Croix, Knight Templar Priests and the Order of the Secret Monitor.
After the Provincial Grand Master had Invested and personally congratulated the 87 Brethren who had received a promotion he addressed the Brethren.
annual provincial promotions meeting record numbers attend proVincial christmas party
In his Address the PGM tthanked those present for their attendance in record numbers; he reminded the Brethren of the importance of Mentoring, gave an update on the continuous giving scheme, the Training and Education Initiative and the Provincial Website.
He also touched on the pros and cons of Social Media, announced changes in the Provincial Year Book and finally thanked all of those Brethren who had worked so hard to make the Promotions Meeting possible.
A collection was then taken towards the Continuous Giving Relief Chest before Provincial Grand Lodge was closed in due form.
The venue was then transformed into the banqueting hall where over 350 Brethren enjoyed typical festive fare with everyone in good cheer. After taking wine with everyone present the Provincial Grand Master once again thanked everyone for their attendance and hoped a good night was had by all.
To read the PGM’s full address please visit the Provincial Website www.durhamfreemasons.org
Seventy Years ago in 1943, with World War II still in full flow, historic landmarks were common place.
In January alone, British troops captured Tripoli from the Italian forces, the first ‘All American’ air raid was unleashed on German soil and the Soviets had finally broken the Wehrmacht’s siege of Leningrad. America unveiled the world’s largest office building, the Pentagon, and the legendary Duke Ellington made his debut performance at New York’s Carnegie Hall.
The 7th of January 1943 also saw a young 21 year old George Benham Bosomworth Initiated into Saltwell Lodge No3000 in Gateshead marking the beginning of an incredible Masonic journey.
On the 11th of January 2013 the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Norman Eric Heaviside joined a group of family, friends and Provincial representatives from both Durham and Northumberland at Scarborough Court, now home of WBro George to present him with his Certificate of 70 years continuous service in Craft Masonry and his 50 year Certificate in Royal Arch Masonry.
Among the visitors were WBro George Clark, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, WBro Phil Rann, Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro Alan Hall, Past Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro Derek Warneford, Past Deputy Grand Superintendent in the Royal Arch and RWBro Peter Magnay, The Provincial Grand Master for the Province of Northumberland and a selection of Gateshead Masons who were only too pleased to attend and help George celebrate this special achievement.
Also present was WBro Jack Ravenscroft, PPJGW of Beaconsfield Lodge No7768 a lifelong friend of George’s having also been Initiated in to Saltwell Lodge 6 years after George and who had received his 60th Year Certificate only a few years earlier. With George in the building trade for most of his life and Jack involved with the legal profession it wasn’t just in the Lodge room that these friends worked as a team, their professional lives intertwined also.
After being Initiated into Saltwell Lodge, WBro George took the Chair for the first time in 1963 and again in 1992, he was recognised by Provincial Grand Lodge in 1972 when he was appointed ProvAGReg, promoted to PPJGW in 1987 and received the extremely high and rarely appointed rank of PPSGW in 2004. George joined Beaconsfield Lodge No7768 in 1999 and became their Worshipful Master in 2001; he also became an Honorary Member of St Mary’s Lodge No4864 in 2005.
In the Royal Arch George was Exalted into Chapter of Industry No48 in 1963 and during his presentation of both certificates, RWBro Heaviside commented on George’s remarkable Masonic career, he complimented George on the way he had conducted himself over his 70 years, on the pure admiration that was held for him not just in Gateshead but wherever he was involved, he also asked the question on everybody’s mind, “What took him so long to join the Chapter”.
Once the Certificates has been presented the party was treated to a marvellous buffet prepared by the staff of Scarborough Court.After toasting George, everyone present had the opportunity of offering their personal congratulations. In his reply George commented on how happy he was to see so many people help him celebrate his two wonderful landmarks and how he was taken aback by the respect and companionship he still shares with both the Craft and Royal Arch Masonry.
WBro George Benham Bosomworth, a stalwart of Gateshead Freemasonry.
70th anniversary celebrated seVen decades in freemasonry acKnoWledged
During the past two years a number of teething difficulties have been experienced at the Scarbrough Court RMBI Home in Cramlington.
Some of the building defects caused major disturbance to the smooth running of the Home and in particular it prevented The Friends of Scarbrough Court from raising monies by their Coffee Mornings and other fund-raising efforts within the Home.
To overcome some of the shortfall the Committee of Friends decided to sell a large number of Buttonhole Badges identified with “Friends of Scarbrough Court”.
The Province of Durham decided that rather than selling these Badges they would invite The Benevolent Committee to consider making a donation to the Friends Committee.
At a Presentation of a 70 Year Certificate to WBro George Bosmworth, at Scarbrough Court where George resides, The Provincial Grand Master of Durham, RWBro Eric Heaviside, presented a cheque for £1000, on behalf of Durham Benevolence, to WBro Ken Wake, Vice Chairman of The Friends of Scarbrough Court.
helping friends surprise cheque presentation
Should you enjoy reading the articles featured in this issue of the Gazette then visit the provincial website at:
W W W. D U R H A M F R E E M A S O N S . O R G
There you will find the very latest news and features from around the province
subsequent flood damage could be more than £7,000. The damage to the internal fabric extends to ceilings, wooden floors, seating etc and is extensive.
A shocked Brian stated “It’s such a shame when you think that the building was looking the best it had ever, everyone was commenting on it. This has set us back about 20 years. It’s not the first time the hall has had problems with vandals and thieves. Years ago, we used to have a problem with vandals breaking the windows but we rectified that by putting wire mesh on the windows. About seven years ago, we had some lead flashing stolen. But we’ve never had a problem on this scale”
The Worshipful Master, on behalf of Rowlands Gill Lodge, would like to thank all of the Lodges and Masonic halls for their help, cooperation and support during their time of crisis.
Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
14
LOCAL NEWS
Monday 3rd December saw the ‘End of an Era’ when Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro John David Watts attended the regular meeting of John Readhead Lodge No3217 at Freemasons Hall, Ingham Street, South Shields.
The visit on this occasion, being regrettably to receive on behalf of the PGM the Lodge warrant from WBro Philip S t e p h e n s o n Master, this being the final meeting of John Readhead Lodge.
john readhead lodge surrenders warrant lodge calls time after 105 years
Once opened and WBro Watts had been received in to the Lodge, WBro Mitch Donkin, Secretary presented a summarised account of the Lodge history detailing the connections between the famous John Readhead shipbuilding family and the Lodge, with John Readhead himself being the Founding Master.
In the closing of the Lodge the Junior Warden announced “And it stands closed forever”, the Director of Ceremonies then collected the warrant and passed it dutifully to the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, who, accompanied by the Provincial Secretary, paraded around the Lodge before coming to a halt by the entrance. The Brethren were then commanded to retire in order by the Director of Ceremonies, the
Officers of the Lodge and the Worshipful Master being the last to leave.
The John Readhead Lodge Banner is in the process of being framed and is to be displayed within the Hall. A number of the Brethren, who are continuing to enjoy their Masonry having now joined other Lodges, can look up with pride at a nostalgic piece of Masonic history within South Shields.
After the Lodge finances have been finalised a donation will be made to Durham Benevolence to assist in the care of lodge widows along with donations to four other charities. The warrant has now been returned to United Grand Lodge by the Provincial Secretary and is held within the Archives at Great Queen Street.
Metal thieves climbed onto the roof of the Masonic Hall at Burnopfield, which houses the Rowlands Gill Lodge No4694 and many side degrees.
Lead was then stripped off causing extensive damage to the surrounding slates. With the continuous rain over the following days, hundreds of gallons of rainwater poured into the building bringing large areas of ceilings down in the Lodge room and bar.
With most workmen on holiday and companies shut down for the Christmas period, the Worshipful Master, WBro Denis Thornton and Secretary, WBro Brian Graham took it upon themselves to go onto the roof to make things watertight as much as possible.
On Christmas Eve the two of them patched up the roof as best they could, bearing in mind that many of the slates were unusable, they managed to stop water from getting in.
The finished job was not very pretty but they
were happy that further damage had been averted as the rain started to pour once more. With the building due to host meetings from 2nd January an alternative venue was sought whilst at the same time notifying other degrees of the situation. Contact was made to WBro Malcolm Ormiston of Ryton Lodge who, without hesitation, offered the use of the building at Ryton.
Brian returned a few days later with a special vacuum cleaner to remove the excess water, he found that the thieves had been back and had caused more damage, with the roof now completely open to the elements. The Brethren and other local community groups who use the building were, understandably, devastated knowing that it would be some months before the necessary repairs could be completed. The lead stolen was said to be worth around £150 but the cost of the
thieves target masonic hall metal thieVes bring chaos to burnopfield
SPOTLIGHT
15
In October 1996 Heugh Lodge’s new Secretary, Ken Buglass, started to produce ‘The Heugher Newsletter’ to keep Heugh’s absent Brethren, who then comprised over 50% of the membership, up to date with what was happening in the Lodge.
It was originally printed on one side of a sheet of A4 paper, but soon increased to a double-sided newsletter as Ken began to include highlights and photographs from the other 10 Hartlepool Lodges and changed its name to ‘The Heugher News’.
It was issued with the monthly summons, which in those days was sent to Lodge members as well as six copies to each Hartlepool Lodge Secretary and copies for members of the Provincial Executive. It became a huge success and the late Derek Richmond often used it as an example of what a Lodge newsletter should look like.
Circulation grew, but as he printed it at his own expense, Ken always used to insist that for non-Heughers to qualify for regular copies, they had to visit Heugh from time to time. It was printed in black and white although he did provide coloured copies for his personal friends.
Ken stood down as Secretary in September 2003 suffering from the early stages of the progressively debilitating pulmonary disease, fibrosing alveolitis, which was to claim his life on Dec 30th 2006. He produced no issues of the Heugher News between March and December 2003, after having missed the odd issue previously.
Heugh’s then DC, Peter Kay produced a brief catch-up version for him in January 2004. This inspired Ken to continue until the September 2005 edition, which was to be the last issue until October 2006 when, at Ken’s request, Peter took over the production.
There were, inevitably, some continuing changes in editorial style and more photographs were introduced, so much so
the heugher news legacy neWsletter continues
that the monthly newsletter now often extends to 3 or 4 pages, covering all the Hartlepool Craft Lodges. This has been facilitated by the growing use of digital camera and personal computers, which means that The Heugher News is now mainly circulated in the more economical electronic format.
Peter converts his finished newsletters to full colour PDF files which are then sent to the current Secretary, Assistant Provincial Grand Master John Arthur, for distribution.
This format has also made it easier to increase circulation, but in Feb 2007 Peter also introduced the Heugh Lodge Bar Browser. He prints copies of each edition at the original resolution on glossy A4 photographic paper and inserts these into plastic wallets in display books, which are left in the bar at Raby Road for anyone to browse through at their leisure.
The original aim was not only to further increase circulation, but to provide interesting and easy reading material for candidates of all Lodges when sitting in the bar while their respective
Lodges were working in a higher degree. The Browser now extends to several volumes and has proved to be more useful than anticipated. It is now also widely read by ladies and non-masons attending social functions and can be used as an aid to showing potential candidates and their partners the sort of things we get up to.
Peter strongly believes that this sort of document can provide a useful historical record of Festive Boards, Ladies Nights and other events as well as photographs of Brethren that will never be found in any of the town’s Lodge minute books.
Indeed, when he produced Heugh Lodge’s History for its Golden Jubilee in October 2011, he provided copies for all on DVD and included copies of every issue of the Heugher News since its introduction in 1996.
Although his predecessor, Ken, had kept no records, Peter had saved hard copies of all of Ken’s issues, which enabled him to scan them into the document.
Peter Kay hard at work
16
LOCAL NEWS
Souter Lighthouse was designed by James Douglass, built by Robert Allison of Whitburn and opened in 1871.
The lighthouse was built in Whitburn due to the dangerous reefs along the coastline between the river Tyne and the river Wear. In one year alone, 1869, there were 20 shipwrecks. This contributed to making this coastline the most dangerous in the country with an average of around 44 shipwrecks per mile of coastline. This sequence of shipping tragedies led to the Brethren of Trinity House agreeing to build a lighthouse at Souter, near Marsden. Douglass also designed the Eddystone Lighthouse that you see under Britannia on pre decimalisation penny coins.
Souter was the first purpose built electric lighthouse in the world. Steam was generated by two Cornish Boilers which were made by Fairbairn Engineering Co. which burned 100 tons of coke per year. The alternating current was generated by two Professor Holmes alternators (housed in the Science Museum in London) which in turn were driven by two steam engines. The current was then rectified to 100 volt DC, the engines displayed in the lighthouse these days are from the 1950s and 60s.
The 800,000 candle power light was generated using a carbon arc lamp and could be seen for up to 17 miles, the original 1871 carbon
darkness visible JarroW master lights the Way
arc lamp is on display in the lighthouse. The lighthouse was upgraded over the years and in 1916 the current ‘biform first order lens’ containing 1008 prisms was installed, weighing 4.5 tons and floating on 1.5 tons of mercury.
Its final major refit in 1952 saw the lamp upgraded to 1.5 million candlepower and it could be seen from 26 miles away. The unique flash for Souter was a single red flash every five seconds. The foghorn was much louder than the current ones in the mouths of the Tyne or Wear, Souter foghorn was 121 decibels and could be heard up to 17 miles away.
Souter was operational for 117 years, but due to improvements in technology was decommissioned in 1988 and opened as a visitor attraction by the National Trust in 1990.One of the volunteer Visitor Guides is Ian Anderson, Worshipful Master of Gyrwy Lodge No6462. He has been a guide for six years and is part of the team of volunteers that supports the small number of regular employees, he became a volunteer after contacting the staff at the lighthouse.
As a volunteer Ian has to familiarise himself with facts, figures and lighthouse terminology in order to answer visitors questions, a lot different from reciting ritual at Gyrwy Lodge he states. “Ensuring that visitors have an enjoyable time is one of my main roles, but at the same time always having safety in mind, as the Lighthouse is still equipped with heavy machinery”.
Every year the lighthouse attracts visitors from all over the world, and meeting such a diverse range of people is one of Ian’s favourite aspects of the ‘job’. “Some people have a particular interest in lighthouses, but many more just come for the spectacular view from the top of the tower or to see the old machines”. For Ian it is also a great way of staying fit (76 steps up and 76 down).
“I find volunteering is a great form of giving, it not only benefits the person volunteering but without volunteers many organisations
would struggle. Winter months are spent in preparation for the following season, in an old building there are always plenty of tasks.”
(The lighthouse is open from 16th March to the end of October, for full details of days, times and volunteering opportunities with National Trust visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk)
The District Grand Master of the Royal and Select Masters, Ill Comp Prof Denovan Keith Wilson visited Lanchester’s Willow Burn Hospice in December 2012 to present them with a cheque for £850.
The money consisted of the proceeds of the RSM Annual Social and the collection from the RSM Annual District Meeting. Sue Fox, Community Fundraising Administration Officer for the Hospice explained that the Hospice received less that 40% of its funding from the Government and is therefore heavily dependent on such donations if it is to remain open and develop its services and facilities.
Do you think “A daily advancement in Masonic knowledge” is achievable or aspirational?
I wonder what we would find if we kept a note, each day, of that daily advancement? Would we be disappointed in our level of progress? I wonder if I dare start to do this, even if only for a month!
Never mind, perhaps I should concentrate on some of the easier things to do.....
Pick a Brother I know very little about and get to know him, especially one of the newer members or even one of the oldest!
Make a point of sitting with someone other than my normal group, or even invite someone new to join us in the bar or at the Festive Board.
Make a point of helping the usual workers in the setting up and dismantling of the Lodge and Festive Board (it does not happen magically like my freshly ironed shirts).
Volunteer to call to see a missing member if we do not know the reason for his absence. Face to face may well be a novelty but could be quite enjoyable when compared with electronic contact. You never know it may catch on again!
Make a point of always encouraging all of those doing anything to support Lodge activities be it ritual, charity work, stewarding or supporting the local community.
A kind word goes a lot further than “sound advice”.
Perhaps I should just concentrate on having just one aim in view “to unite with others in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.”
Straightedge....
straightedge a daily adVancement?
There is no getting away from it, Facebook and Twitter are here to stay and many of our members enjoy sharing their personal experiences in the wider world of the internet.
The internet has always been a great source of un-checkable information with Wikipedia being a fine example. Most of its content is posted by people like you and me who may or may not be factually correct in our interpretation of the truth.
Now don’t get me wrong, there is much to be gained from using these sites – when used properly they are a mine of information about events and people – allowing information to be shared quickly and for multiple users to see responses from the masses. I am a fan of Facebook and use it to communicate with my family and close friends. For people with children living away it is an extremely handy tool for families to keep in touch, share photographs and stories. With both of my children living away now it is a handy tool for my wife and I to keep in touch with them and share photographs and stories.
Likewise many members of our organisation use these sites to relay stories about our Masonic Meetings and much of this is good. We can also communicate bad news stories like the recent insane vandalism at Burnopfield Masonic Hall, where many thousands of pounds worth of damage has been caused by thieves who stole lead from the roof, just before the December deluge. The Facebook posting gave us a link to the Newcastle Journal article on the crime and allowed the members to show their sympathy with the Lodges affected and express their anger at the incident.
But here I must add a word of caution. The ‘Send’ button on our computers and smart-phones is very easy to hit – especially after a night out with friends when a drink (or three) may cause us to publish something we would not write with a clear head. Once that button has been hit – you may have no control over who reads your rant. ‘Friends’ can forward, at will, to people who may not
social media thinK before you post
be your friends and before you know it the whole community is reading your post. More importantly some may well be offended by what you have written and there are cases now going through the legal system where individuals are pursuing people who have defamed them. When the BBC’s Newsnight broadcasted an inaccurate report on Lord McAlpine, the story was quickly copied on Facebook and Twitter, and Lord McAlpine is now pursuing every individual who copied the inaccuracy – in my mind rightly so.
So please be careful about what you post. Do not publish anything on social media which you think may offend or upset people but do not dismiss it as totally dangerous. Indeed United Grand Lodge have links to Facebook, Twitter and a number of the ‘sharing’ sites so it is not beyond the realms of possibility that we too may see it at a Masonic site closer to home at some future date.
Please accept our apology for a misprint which appeared in issue No 8 of the ‘New Gazette’ on page 10.
The Sub heading below the photograph identified the Brethren as, initiate on the evening Bro Colin Pemberton and Bro James Gargett.
The photograph actually shows Bro Steven Haines son-in-law of James a member of Vulcan Lodge No510 (Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings)
oops... Well spotted
18
GRAND LODGE ABOVE
obituaryreported to 31 december 2012
harold gordon hulme ppgstWd bernard gilpin lodge no3076 died 22nd october 2012 aged 85 YEARS
malcom golightly wear valley lodge no1121 died 17th october 2012 aged 67 YEARS
harry milne ppsgW palatine lodge no97 died 26th october 2012 aged 83 YEARS
franK lloyd frise byerley lodge no7856 died 5th november 2012 aged 89 YEARS
bertram arnold peace and unity lodge no6312 died 2nd november 2012
gordon William rudd ppgsWdb hadrian lodge no1970 died 13th november 2012 aged 86 YEARS
norman alan meeK ppgreg sancroft lodge no4347 died 15th november 2012 aged 81 YEARS
philip steel bainbridge st hilda lodge no240 died 4th october 2012 aged 81 YEARS
albert eyre ppJgW st helen’s lodge no531 died 13th october 2012 aged 74 YEARS
John graham daVis smith (yorKs, n&er) cleveland lodge no543 died 12th october 2012 aged 62 YEARS
terence carr caradoc lodge no4749 died 18th november 2012 aged 49 YEARS
LIVeD reSPeCTeD, DIeD reGreTTeD
KeVin John sprot pagdc st catherine’s lodge no5393 died 24th november 2012 aged 54 YEARS
brian robert aleXander ppsgd lord barnard lodge no2935 died 26th december 2012 aged 75 YEARS
thomas robson laWs pgstb finchale priory lodge no7059 died 19th december 2012 aged 83 YEARS
roland WordsWorth tindale ppgreg eslington lodge no4623 died 26th december 2012 aged 80 YEARS
charles michael stadius ppgstdb sincerity lodge no6036 died 30th december 2012 aged 64 YEARS
charles colin hough ppJgd palatine lodge no97 died 28th december 2012 aged 78 YEARS
albert White ppgreg st mary’s lodge no4864 died 30th december 2012 aged 86 YEARS
daVid Welch ppsgW (northumberland) accession lodge no5661 died 14th december 2012 aged 64 YEARS
William holmes diXon ppJgW nautilus lodge no4259 died 16th december 2012 aged 88 YEARS
Joseph JacKson dunn ppJgd harte lodge no4217 died 15th december 2012 aged 79 YEARS
thomas gardner phoenix lodge no94 died 7th december 2012 aged 88 YEARS
bruce Vernon cole lodge stewart no4261 died 4th december 2012 aged 73 YEARS
John rogers ppgreg roger de fery lodge no5879 died 29th november 2012 aged 71 YEARS
Durham Benevolent Committee’s most recent quarterly meeting under the Chairmanship of Assistant Provincial Grand Master WBro John Webster, was held at Shildon on Saturday 8th December where they were welcomed, on behalf of the Hall’s Management Committee, by WBro Ken Richardson.
The main business commenced with the approval of five Emergency Grants totalling £750 before the Treasurer’s report revealed that the decision to allow our stockbroker’s discretion in responding to market trends is proving successful though the investment with Scottish Widows in particular, had dropped by half a percent.
Members then heard that the aptly-named, Boundary Court – the home’s neighbours are a Cricket Club – required the erection of some suitable ‘boundary’ netting to prevent sporadic damage to residents’ cars resulting
benevolence shildon hosts latest meeting
from either poor bowling or spectacular batting performances during the season! Otherwise, the extension to the car park is now complete and the structural survey at Peter Stracey House has been completed with the necessary resulting works to commence in February 2013.
Non-Masonic grants were approved to“Friends of Scarbrough Court (£1000), Chester-le-Street and District Voluntary Welfare Committee (£500), Sound Waves (£500) and St Benedict’s Hospice (£1000) with the Chairman reminding the Committee that the grant to St Benedict’s Hospice fulfils an annual arrangement arising from the fact that, being funded by the Local Authority, it is otherwise beyond the scope of the annual support grants to hospices provided by The Grand Charity.
In Sunderland, Grace House, a hospice for children who are terminally ill has been completed but not yet opened.
The Masonic charity “Lifelites” is arranging to support the facility by providing a computer and TV ‘package’ costing approximately £16,000. A potential shortfall in the funding means that
Durham Benevolence will consider support amounting to £4-5K at an appropriate juncture and some Sunderland Lodges are also already considering their own support for the new hospice.
Reports were also heard on relevant administrative matters at Provincial Office, from the Provincial Almoner and from the Provincial Information Officer before the main business concluded with (then) imminent Christmas matters.
Though sales of Provincial Christmas cards had, at the time, produced returns of almost £6,000; a further £3800 was outstanding. By the time you’re reading this, we feel sure that ALL returns will have been received.
The next meeting is scheduled for Saturday 9th March at Shiney Row. The full minutes of this and all Benevolent Committee meetings can be read on the website of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham, www.durhamfreemasons.org.
Freemasonry can be enjoyed on many different levels. All Members take delight from the simple pleasures of the social aspects, while many want to discover more about the rich history, traditions and customs of our Fraternity.
The Provincial Executive, when considering the future vision and business plan for the Province of Durham, recognised the need to introduce a programme of Education and Training, fit for purpose, to meet the current needs of our members.
It was agreed to stand down the former Training and Education Committee and develop a new strategy in line with the overall vision: to create and sustain a Province where every member feels valued and is made aware of the many opportunities available to him to maximise his enjoyment and understanding of Freemasonry within a vibrant, healthy and mutually supportive community of Lodges. Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro David Hay was given the task with overseeing the development of the new model and, having recruited WBro John Parker to assist him, met with WBro Ian Kirkbride, Worshipful Master of the Provincial Stewards Lodge, to plan a way forward.
It was agreed that the Stewards Lodge would be an ideal body to deliver future training events and initiatives. WBro John Hattle, PGStwd and Assistant Principle External Examiner in Technology, was appointed to co-ordinate a small group to take forward this work.
During the formative period, it was agreed that a pilot scheme would be implemented which would have the aim of: “Delivering events which would help participants to maximise their enjoyment and understanding of Freemasonry in the Province of Durham and to provide a stimulating and enjoyable experience”. A working protocol was agreed which stated: • Events must be participative rather than
being lectures or talks.• There must be a consistent approach
stewards training initiative more WorKshops in the pipeline
adopted with a controlled and consistent input and the use of modern technology.
• Delegate information and working material should be made available to be taken away for further use.
• Delegates would need to feel that they had gained benefit from attendance.
• Delegates would feel that they had had an enjoyable and stimulating experience which they would recommend to others.
It was also agreed that the support of the Executive at events would be an advantage and that delegates would be able to pose questions and create feedback.
With this in mind the group set to work and delivered the very successful session:“Preparing for the Chair“ and followed this with, equally successful, “Public speaking and Masonic Speeches”, both of which were very well attended. Both of these workshops were well supported by the Provincial Executive with many of the younger Brethren being able to meet and speak with our senior officers and the PGM.
It is clear from the delegate feedback that 100% of those attending these workshops, felt that their understanding and enjoyment of Freemasonry had been increased which indicated to the team the success of the material presented.
It is also now clear that the format and protocol of the meetings is successful and although this work is still in a formative phase there is now a clear vision for developing this work into a successful working form.
As for the future, delegate feedback has indicated that workshops on The practices and protocol of visiting, Learning Ritual,
Explanation of Grand and Provincial aprons etc. would be of interest. To this end the team is currently putting together a package on “The Practice and Protocols of visiting” for delivery early this year, 2013 and following a request from the Provincial Mentor is also currently working on a training presentation for Lodge Mentors.
Still further into the future the establishment of an Educational Academy, for Master Masons, is in preparation and similar establishments in North and East Riding, South Riding of the Province of Yorkshire have been in contact and an invitation was received for John Hattle and Paul O’Doherty to travel to Doncaster to attend a meeting of the West Riding Academy and took part in presentations on Masonic Music, Explanation and Practice of Signs and a very interesting historical explanation of the Master Masons apron.
So as a reminder for the future - WATCH THIS SPACE.
WBro John Hattle writing workshops for the future
Provincial Grand lodGe of dUrHaM 8 THE ESPLANADE, SUNDERLAND, SR2 7BH, (0191) 567 5365
Fuller lists of all Masonic Meetings in the Province and deputations led by AsstPGMs and Provincial Principals are published on the Provincial Website.
the new provincial website
focus on the scarlet cord
freemasonry and scouting ‘common roots’
plus all the latest news and events from around the province
deadline for the next edition is 30th march 2013
Sneak PeekI N S I D e T h e N e x T I S S u e
GUIDELINES FOR PROVIDING FEEDBACK, INFORMATION, ARTICLES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO THE MASONIC FAMILY OF DURHAM PROVINCE: • Photographs to be digital at a resolution of at least 300dpi (file size min 500kb, max 5mb). • Articles should be up to 300 words without a picture and up to 250 words with a picture. • All submissions to be sent as Word, Publisher, or PDF documents by e-mail to [email protected]. • Please don’t embed pictures into word documents but send them as separate attachments to the same email. • “Letters to the editor”, articles, information and photographs should only be sent if you agree to them being edited and your name being attributed to anything published. • Articles may be published in The Gazette or the Provincial Website (www.durhamfreemasons.org)
Please continue to send random photographs taken throughout the Province for us to use as page headers and background images, use [email protected]
AUDIO VERSIONIf you know anyone who might prefer or benefit from an audio version of The Gazette please contact us as indicated below.
![Provincial Provinsiale Gazette Koerant No.115 PROVINCIAL GAZETTE. 6 March 2015 PROVINCIAL NOTICE [No. 157 of 2014] PUBLICATION OF UNIFORM PATIENT FEE SCHEDULE (UPFS) 2015 TARIFFS IN](https://static.documents.pub/doc/80x56/5affea7a7f8b9a256b8f3124/provincial-provinsiale-gazette-koerant-no115-provincial-gazette-6-march-2015-provincial.jpg)
![Provincial Provinsiale Gazette Koerant · ng.1q3 provincial gazette. 13 february 2015 provincial notice [no. 150 of 2014] free state provincial treasury division of revenue act, 2014:](https://static.documents.pub/doc/80x56/5ea27eaadef74924ed63d7f8/provincial-provinsiale-gazette-koerant-ng1q3-provincial-gazette-13-february-2015.jpg)
