A PERMANENT DOMICILE FOR GRAND LODGE.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
T has often been said that the volume and importance of the business transacted at the Annual
Communications of Grand Lodge would not in themselves justify the holding of the function. This,
however, could not be affirmed of the 1943 Annual Communication, just concluded at Christchurch, for
there Masonic history was made. After a full and animated discussion, Grand Lodge decided to break away
from the so-called peripatetic system, under which, since the inception of Grand Lodge, the office and
headquarters of the administrative staff have been situated in rotation for two-yearly periods in each of the
principal centres of the Dominion. From now onwards the domicile of Grand Lodge Office and its permanent
staff will be centralised in Wellington, though the headquarters of the two executive Boards, and of the
elective executive officers, will rotate as hitherto has been customary.
This matter has been, in one form or another, before Grand Lodge on many previous occasions; but in the
absence of a specific alternative scheme that would remove objections, the peripatetic system has hitherto
survived in face of a strong and growing body of opposing opinion. It will be remembered that at the 1942
Annual Communication the matter was brought forward as a wartime measure, and was referred to a special
committee for report. This committee, after what appears to have been a full and impartial consideration of
the issues involved, recommended the change above mentioned. For purposes of liaison it was also proposed
that Grand Lodge should open a branch office, with an official in charge, in the centre where for the time
being the Boards are situated, and that the Grand Secretary should travel to the periodical meetings of the
Boards.
After full discussion, these proposals were adopted by Grand Lodge without amendment. On a ballot being
taken, the proposal was declared carried by 513 votes to 466. It is thus obvious that while general sentiment
against the peripatetic system has attained majority status, there is still a considerable body of opinion in
favour of it. It is to be hoped, and we think expected, that experience of the working of the new system will
to a great extent allay dissentient opinion.
The principal objections to the peripatetic system have been of a threefold nature, which different brethren
would assess in different orders of importance. There is first the considerable direct cost involved in these
biennial transfers of books, equipment, records and personnel, apart from the wear and tear on equipment
and the possible loss or deterioration of valuable records. There is always the trouble of reconstituting the
technical office and recording equipment, and the growing difficulty of securing suitable premises at all for
so short a period of tenure.
It is not probable, as the Committee candidly admitted, that the new system will result in much saving in
outlay, since the rent of the branch office and additional travelling expenses will be incurred; but it is certain
that the indirect costs above enumerated will be avoided, and that in itself will be a substantial material gain.
In a permanent domicile the office work can be conducted, from the technical point of view, with much
greater ease and efficiency than has formerly been possible.
There is in addition, and this point was stressed by the President of the Board of General Purposes (V. Wor.
Bro. Cathie) in speaking to the motion, the fact that the new system will be a great boon to the staff of Grand
Lodge. Under the system hitherto in vogue, such officers could not take local root, which is detrimental both
to the officers concerned and to their family, personal and social life. Under the proposed system these
personal difficulties will disappear. Admittedly this could not be the sole, or even the decisive consideration,
since the fundamental point is the advantage of the Craft and of Grand Lodge itself. It is however a factor
reinforcing, in the minds of many, perhaps most brethren, a case made out strongly on other grounds.
In our view, however, the main case for the alteration rests on other considerations, although those already
mentioned are of material weight and importance. Under the peripatetic system Grand Lodge cannot develop
those cultural agencies and adjuncts which, for their effective establishment, maintenance and operation
demand a permanent local habitation. Among such agencies are a museum and portrait gallery, and a local
centre which becomes generally and familiarly known throughout the Craft, where Freemasons are welcome
and feel at home. The Craft in this Territory will not attain that degree of dignity that it should achieve until
I
it possesses for itself a permanent cultural centre of appropriate architectural beauty, a repository of masonic
culture and archives housed in a manner in conformity with Craft tradition. This is now something within the
range of practical accomplishment.
One might have expected something like unanimity of sentiment, in principle, on this last series of
considerations; and it is rather surprising to find some brethren attaching little or no importance to them, and
even drawing a distinction between the good of the Craft and the dignity of the Craft. To this point V. Wor.
Bro. Cathie, in winding up the debate made the obvious and unanswerable reply that the dignity and the good
of the Craft are inseparable conceptions that cannot conflict.
It cannot however be ignored that a considerable body of opinion views the change with misgiving. We think
these apprehensions will prove baseless. There is not the slightest need to fear that this system will give any
one centre any more influence than it possesses at the present time. The fact that the location of the Boards
will still rotate as hitherto, and that the scheme of distribution for allocation of grand offices will continue to
operate as it always has done, are effective guarantees against the fear of undue local influence. Grand Lodge
is to be congratulated on having at last emancipated itself from provincialism; and we are confident that,
viewed later in retrospect, the change will be found to have been entirely to the advantage of the Craft in the
Territory and in no way to its detriment.
————————
GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
FIFTY-FOURTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The fifty-fourth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand was held in Christchurch on
Wednesday, 24th November, the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. H. G. Teagle, presiding.
The business meeting took place in the morning at the Masonic Hall in Gloucester Street.
The unanimous choice by the Craft of M.W. Bro. Teagle for reappointment as Grand Master was confirmed
by Grand Lodge.
ELECTIVE OFFICERS.
The brethren recommended by the Board of General Purposes for election to Grand Lodge office for 1943-
44, as published in the September issue of "The Craftsman," were duly elected, with two alterations: Owing
to the deaths of V.W. Bro. A. Coleman, G.Lec., and W. Bro. F. W. Grainger, W. Bros. D. McCormick and
D. Parnell were elected to the Board of General Purposes for Taranaki and Wellington respectively.
FUNDS AND FINANCE.
The Statement of Accounts and Annual Balance Sheet for the period ended 30th September, 1943, included
the following items:—
Fund of General Purposes.
Receipts £5,905 14 5
Expenditure .. 5,867 5 7
Widows' and Orphans' and Aged Masons' Fund.
Receipts £15,668 11 8
Expenditure .. 8,434 13 0
Special (War) Benevolent Fund.
Receipts £ 653 2 9
Expenditure .. 63 18 9
Fund of Benevolence.
Receipts 1,489 1 10
Expenditure .. 1,162 1 1
Circular Appeal Funds.
Receipts ..£474 5 7
Expenditure .. 652 13 9
The Esson K.M.I. Prize Fund,
Receipts £5 5 0
Expenditure .. 5 5 0
.
Invested Funds £205,540 0 0
Invested Funds at 30th September (previous) 194,440 0 0
Investments as follows:—
N.Z. Government Securities .. £96,555 0 0
Local Body Securities, including £20
Wellington Masonic Hall Co. Shares .. 108,985 0 0
On Current Account £5,792 0 7
Cash Balances of the Several Funds.
Fund of General Purposes £5,452 11 5
Widows' and Orphans' and Aged Masons' Fund 131,700 2 4
Special (War) Benevolent Fund 15,592 7 5
Fund of Benevolence .. 5,479 19 4
Circular Appeal Funds .. 978 13 9
Representation Fund 1,978 11 4
The Esson K.M.I. Prize Fund .. 149 15 0
£211,332 0 7
FUND OF GENERAL PURPOSES.
Income.
To Grand Lodge Dues .. £3,770 9 3
" Initiations and Certificate Fees .. 921 10 0
" Joining Fees 117 0 0
" Dispensations .. 171 3 6
" Exchanges 28 15 10
" P.M. Enrolment Fees .. 140 14 6
" Certifying By-laws 4 10 0
" Sale of Books of Constitution, Rituals,
Bibles and other Books.. 682 14 4
" Furniture sold 20 10 0
" Refund of Rent, Office Furnishings, &c_ 48 7 0
£5,905 14 5
Expenditure.
By Annual Communication Expenses.. . *£192 5 7
" Removal of Grand Lodge Office .. † 492 10 3
" Grand Officers' Travelling Expenses 103 8 6
" Provincial Grand Masters' Expenses .. 318 1 4
" Printing Book of Proceedings and Boards' Reports 450 12 0
" Ordinary Printing and Stationery.. 276 8 10
" Obligation Bibles 195 18 0
" Books of Constitution and Laws .. 6 0 0
" Rituals and other Books .. 16 9 1
" Repairs to Regalia .. 12 6 0
" Repairs to Furniture and Fittings 2 14 6
" Fee for Reviewing Foreign Grand Lodge
Proceedings 37 16 0
" Fee for Publication of Reviews in "Craftsman" 27 2 2
" Post a ges, Stamp Duties. Cables and Telegrams 175 17 5
" Exchanges and Bank Charges, collecting
Interest Coupons, etc. .. 93 3 2
" Office Rent, Heating and Lighting.. 287 4 2
" Office Cleaning. 59 13 3
" Audit Fee 52 10 0
" Telephone, P.O. Box and Code Address
Subscriptions 36 6 6
" Insurance on Regalia, Office Furniture, etc. 24 13 8
" Subscription to "Craftsman" (2 years)
and other Masonic Journals .. 74 17 0
" Freight and Charges on Regalia, etc. —
" New Zealand Directories .. 3 11 6
" Wreaths 2 2 0
" Research Lodges ..100 0 0
" Salaries .. 2.701 7 4
" Photos and Framing .. —
" Grant to Lodge Taneatua. No. 220, towards
cost of new Lodge Room .. —
" Certificate Forms 88 17 9
" Storage (5 years) of Old Records in Dunedin 26 0 0
" Sundry small charges 9 9 7
" Surplus for year carried to Balance Sheet 38 8 10
£5,905 14 5
* Previous meeting in Wellington cost £240 9s. 6d.
† Previous removal from Auckland to Wellington cost £366 19s. 10d.
The report of the Board of General Purposes included the following items :-
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CONFERRING PAST GRAND RANK.
V.W. Bro. Arthur W. Chapman, P.Asst.Prov.G.M., aged 71.—Initiated Lodge Masterton, No. 19, in 1905.
W.M. 1913; Grand Steward 1922; Grand Superintendent of Works 1923; Asst. Prov. G.M. 1936-1940. The
Provincial Grand Master, Wellington, reports that V.W. Bro. Chapman has done, and is still doing, useful
work in the cause of Freemasonry. The rank of Past Grand Warden (Junior) is recommended.
W. Bro. Edward Morris, aged 78.—Initiated Leinster Lodge, No. 44, in 1903; Foundation Member Whetu
Kairangi Lodge, No. 201, and Master of that Lodge in 1918. W. Bro. Morris's interest in the Craft has never
waned, and he has been a source of inspiration to many young Freemasons. The rank of Past Grand Standard
Bearer is recommended.
W. Bro. Dr. Andrew Stenhouse. aged 77.—Initiated Lodge Clutha, No. 14, in 1912. W.M. in 1917. Has been
a subscribing member of Lodge Cashmere, No. 271, for the past ten years; also a subscribing member of
Lodge Ngamotu, No. 48, and the Masters and Past Masters, No. 130. The nature of his profession has
prevented him from accepting active Grand rank. The rank of Past Grand Bible Bearer is recommended.
W. Bro. Charles S. Johnston, aged 68.—Initiated in Lodge Thistle, No. 113, in 1908; joined the Crown
Lodge, No. 138, in 1912. W.M. in 1917. Held the office of Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies in
1930; Foundation Member and first Secretary of Doric Lodge, No. 275; W.M. Masters and Past Masters
Lodge, No. 130, in 1925; appointed Secretary in 1942. The rank of Past Grand Deacon is recommended.
W. Bro. William George Cooper, P.G.S., aged 71.—Initiated in Caledonian Lodge. No. 16, in 1908. Charter
Member, Lodge Koranga, No. 197, in 1913; W.M. in 1920. Present Treasurer of the Lodge. Past Provincial
Grand Chaplain and Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Canterbury. W.
Bro Cooper takes an active part in providing Christmas cheer to Children's Homes, Hospitals, and Old
People's Homes. The rank of Past Grand Deacon is recommended.
W. Bro. Archibald C. Hallett, P.G.B.B., aged 64.—Initiated in United Service Lodge, No, 10, in 1915; W.M.
in 1920; Grand Bible Bearer in 1930. W. Bro. Hallett has been Director of Ceremonies and Preceptor of his
Lodge for the past 15 years. He is a Charter member of Lodge Orakei, No. 270, and is an Honorary Member
of that Lodge. The Provincial Grand Master, Auckland, reports that W. Bro. Hallett has tendered signal
service to the Craft over a number of years, is still an active and zealous Brother and his services are
deserving of a higher rank. The rank of Past Grand Director of Ceremonies is recommended.
W. Bro. Henry O. Searle, aged 76.—Initiated Lodge Ohinemuri, No. 107, in 1900. W.M., 1911; Grand
Steward, 1918; joined the Ponsonby Lodge, No. 54, in 1922, and has served the offices of Director' of
Ceremonies and Chaplain for several years. The Provincial Grand Master, Auckland, reports that W. Bro.
Searle has been a very active and zealous member of the Craft over a long period of years, and has given a
fine example of faithful Masonic service. The rank of Past Grand Deacon (Senior) is recommended.
W. Bro. Edwin Sincock, aged 73.—Initiated Lodge Otago Kilwinning, No, 143, in 1917. W.M., 1924. Has
held the office of Secretary of the Lodge continuously since 1931 to the entire satisfaction of the Lodge. W.
Bro. Sincock was a member of the Board of General Purposes for a number of years and has always been
especially active in furthering appeals which have been made for charitable purposes. The rank of Past Grand
Bible Bearer is recommended.
W. Bro. Andrew Wood, aged 63.—Initiated in Lodge St. John Kilwinning, No. 22, Ayrshire; W.M., 1909.
Chafter Member of Lodge Hamilton, No. 291, in 1927; W.M., 1939. W. Bro. Wood was Master of his
Mother Lodge and was later appointed to the office of Provincial Grand Bible Bearer in Provincial Grand
Lodge. S.C. It is reported that he has served Freemasonry faithfully since coming to New Zealand many
years ago. The rank of Past Asst. Grand Director of Ceremonies is recommended.
W. Bro. Montagu F. Robinson, aged 61.—Initiated Turanganui Lodge, No. 1480, E.C., in 1920. Affiliated
with Lodge Gisborne, No. 233, in 1924. W.M. in 1931. Lodge Auditor for five years, Treasurer for the past
five years, and still holds that office. His services are much valued by the Lodge. The rank of Past Asst.
Grand Director of Ceremonies is recommended.
W. Bro. George H. Romans, P.G.D., aged 100.—Initiated in Lodge Arrow Kilwinning, No. 637, S.C., now
No. 86.
Has been a member for 64 years, during 57 of which he has held office. W. Bro. Romans was re-invested as
Treasurer of the Lodge shortly after his 100th birthday. In view of his long and faithful service to the Craft
the rank of Past Grand Warden is recommended.
W. Bro. John Ewing Walker. aged 71.—Initiated Lodge Rangitikei, No. 38, in 1893. W.M. in 1921. Member
of the Board of General Purposes in 1934 and 1942. The Provincial Grand Master, Ruapehu District, reports
that W. Bro. Walker has given excellent service during his fifty years membership of the Craft. The rank of
Past Grand Deacon (Senior) is recommended.
W. Bro. George William Harding, P.G.Swd.B., aged 87.—Initiated Scinde Lodge, No. 5, in 1895, of which
Lodge he was Master in 1901. W. Bro. Harding joined Waikaremoana, No. 158, in 1914; appointed Grand
Sword Bearer in 1902, and has served 41 years as a Grand Lodge Officer. The Provincial Grand Master
reports that W. Bro. Harding still attends Lodge regularly and takes an active part in the ceremonies. The
rank of Past Grand Director of Ceremonies is recommended.
W. Bro. George H. Budden, aged 70.—Initiated in Lodge Motueka, No. 117, in 1903; W.M. in 1910. Since
vacating the Chair in 1911, W. Bro. Budden has occupied the office of Chaplain of the Lodge continuously,
i.e., for 32 years. He is much revered by the members of his Lodge and all members of the Craft in the
Nelson District. The rank of Past Grand Bible Bearer is recommended.
W. Bro. James B. Auld, P.G.Supt.Wks., aged 73.—Initiated in Lodge Robert Burns, No. 50, in 1895. W.M.
in 1918 and 1933; Grand Superintendent of Works, 1923. Was Secretary of his Lodge for over 20 years and
has recently resumed that office during the absence of the Secretary who has been called up for service. The
Provincial Grand Master, West Coast District, reports that W. Bro. Auld has been of inestimable assistance
to successive Provincial Grand Masters and has at all times taken a very active interest, both in his Lodge
and in the District. The rank of Past Grand Warden is recommended.
In pursuance of Rule 14, Book of Constitution, the Board expressly declares that in its opinion each of the
foregoing brethren merits the specified honour by reason of the special services he has rendered to the Craft.
PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTERS.
The Board, on behalf of Grand Lodge, acknowledges the valuable services rendered by all Provincial Grand
Masters, many of whom have controlled their districts for a number of years.
R.W. Bro. John C. Barclay, who has been in charge of Taranaki District since 1936, and R.W. Bro. William
G. Rudd, Provincial Grand Master of Nelson and Marlborough District for the past three years, have
announced their retirement, and the Board places on record its appreciation of the outstanding service given
by these R.W. Brethren.
KIRKPATRICK MASONIC INSTITUTE.
The annual report and statement of accounts of the Institute indicate that although the finances are in a sound
position the Board of Governors was, in the early part of the year, seriously concerned with the reduction in
the number of children in the Institute. Happily this state of affairs has improved somewhat, as a number of
girls have been admitted during recent months. There are still some vacancies.
A home is provided for the daughters of deceased Freemasons. Girls from the age of six to thirteen are
admitted and receive an excellent training in healthy and comfortable surroundings. They attend a primary
school in Nelson and finish at the Nelson Girls' College. The widowed mother or guardian of a girl admitted
to the Institute is not required to contribute to the cost of the maintenance or education of the child.
Members of Grand Lodge, and, indeed, all members of the Craft, are enjoined to become interested in the
affairs of the Institute and to bring to the notice of widows of deceased members the great benefits which
accrue to girls who are admitted.
MASONIC BOYS' HOME, PAPAKURA.
In submitting the annual statements of account of the above Home for the year which ended on the 30th
September, 1943, the Committee of Management point out that there has been a surplus of £1,788 2s. 5d. of
revenue over the cost of administration expenses connected with the Home.
They again express their regrets that the home has not its full complement of ten boys, which, under the
terms of the trust, is requisite before the erection of another cottage home can be proceeded with to provide
further accommodation. Six boys are now being maintained in the home. Appeals have been made to the
Craft to endeavour to find boys to be cared for in the home, but so far the response thereto has not been very
encouraging.
The present inmates are all well cared for and are happy and contented with their lot. The committee again
express their appreciation of the kindly services willingly and voluntarily rendered by many brethren in the
operations of the home and the care of the boys.
NEW ZEALAND LODGE, No. 5175, LONDON.
Owing probably to the irregularity of the mails, the usual annual report has not been received from New
Zealand Lodge, No. 5175. A perusal of the summonses indicates that the lodge has met regularly and has
been well employed.
It is interesting to note that this year's Master, W. Bro. E. S. Harston, is the son of R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston,
P.D.G.M., of Napier.
Since 1939 many of our members who have reached England in the course of their military duties have
enjoyed the hospitality of New Zealand Lodge and many others will probably do so before the war is ended.
THE WAR.
Although returns have not been obtained from
lodges of members who are serving with his
Majesty's Forces, it is safe to estimate that fully
3,000 are doing so. On their returns to Grand
Lodge for the half-year ended 30th June last,
lodges throughout the territory have claimed
exemption of dues on behalf of 2,764 members,
and it is known that many lodges continue to pay
Grand Lodge dues for their members _who are
with the Forces.
The N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association is still carrying
on its good work. The President of the Association
called at Grand Lodge office when in New Zealand
on furlough and reported that the Association is a
great boon to members of the Craft.
Similar associations have been formed wherever
members of the Craft are stationed.
CONDITION OF THE CRAFT.
305 Active Lodges. Membership at 30th June. 1942, 27,214.
ADD—
Initiations - - 1,039
Joinings .. 499
1,538
28,752
LESS-
Demitted and Resigned Clear .. .. 455
Struck off and Resigned in Arrears .. 168
Deceased .. 444
1,067
Membership at 30th June, 1943 27,685
The net gain for the year ended 30th June, 1943, was 471, as against 404 for the previous year, and the
membership as at 30th June, 1943, viz., 27,685, is the highest in the history of Grand Lodge.
OFFICE OF GRAND TYLER.
At the 1942 Annual Communication, R.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness. P.Prov.G.M., drew attention to the fact that,
so far as he was aware, the Grand Lodge of New Zealand was the only Grand Lodge which had no such
office as Grand Tyler. The Grand Master asked the incoming Board of General Purposes to consider adding
such an office to the list of Grand Officers.
After due consideration the Board makes the following recommendation:—
"That the appointment of a Grand Tyler be made, and preferably that the office be allotted annually to that
centre where the next ensuing Annual Communication is to be held; and that the Grand Registrar be
requested to frame the necessary alterations or additions to the Laws of Grand Lodge to give effect to the
creation of the said office."
ANNUAL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS.
Moving the adoption of the annual balance sheet, the Grand Treasurer, V.W. Bro. C. D. Morpeth, pointed out
that the capital value of the assets of Grand Lodge had increased during the year by £11,000, that the
invested funds had increased by £11,100, and that the funds had benefited as a result of a legacy under the
will of the late Bro. James Moir, retired farmer, of North Auckland, £2500 of this having been paid in this
year. He also remarked on the reduction in revenue from reinvestments, due to lower interest rates now
prevailing. It was plain, he said, that Grand Lodge could not expect a fixed income from its investments, and
that for some time to come interest earned was unlikely to exceed 3 per cent. A very comforting sign was the
increase from £7757 to £8630 in lodges' contributions to the Widows' and Orphans' and Aged Masons' Fund.
The statement was adopted without discussion.
BENEVOLENT FUNDS.
The adoption of the report of the Board of Benevolence was moved by the President of the Board, V.W. Bro.
H. Hatch, who said that the Board considered its benevolent activities by grants for educational purposes
could be considerably extended, and would be pleased to assist if lodges would bring to its notice instances
of brilliant children of brethren whose education had had to be curtailed owing to financial stringency. He
congratulated the lodges on their prompt and generous response to an appeal on behalf of the family of a
brother of Aorangi Lodge, and said that a very satisfactory sum had already been received from 135 lodges
and private donations.
The report was adopted.
Reviewing the work of the Annuity Board, V.W. Bro. Hatch said that, compared with the worries of past
Boards, it was now possible to meet all calls for assistance to the extent that was felt due, although it had
been necessary to encroach on capital to a small extent, as the interest of the W.O. and A.M. Fund was not
quite adequate. Lodge contributions from the inception of the fund totalled £169,239 and annuities paid
amounted to £162,968, so that if collections had been relied on for payments of annuities a balance of only
£6361 would be left in the fund. The Board had endeavoured to respond immedately to calls for assistance,
to the limit permitted by the Social Security Act. It should be remembered that assistance to a distressed
brother was not charity in the usually accepted sense, but aid from a great brotherhood to one of its members
who needed a helping hand, generally during the going down of life, when brotherly love was really worth
while. V.W. Bro. Hatch remarked on the continued upward tendency in payments. Annuities had cost £8434
during the year, an increase of £415. This had been caused by increase of annuitants and increase of
annuities to the limit permitted without relieving the Government of its obligations. Examination of the
petitions of the 32 new annuitants, particularly those on behalf of widows, indicated that deceased brethren
had made little or no provision for their dependants in the form of insurance. He thought the time had arrived
when Grand Lodge should insist that all candidates, before admission, should have made some reasonable
insurance or provision for their dependants. One application had been received from a widow whose husband
was only six months a Mason. That was looking for trouble.
Referring to the lodge contributions, the President said that the total, good as it was, represented only a paltry
6/4 per member per year throughout the Craft. Some lodges had made a fine effort, one having achieved the
objective of one penny a day per member. He suggested that such a rate of contribution was possible in all
lodges if they were prepared to make an organised effort among their brethren. It only required a leader in
each lodge. Of the 219 annuitants on the books, only 49 were brethren; the remainder were widows, with
children in most cases, or dependants of deceased brethren. Of the 219 annuitants, 136 were the
responsibility of lodges which had not contributed the Dominion average of 6/4 a head. This was indeed
disturbing. If brethren could hear the expressions of gratitude that came from those assisted he felt sure that
the contributions would reach an average of at least £1 a member.
Turning to the special War Benevolent Fund, V.W. Bro. Hatch said it had not had a great deal of activity
during the year and showed an increase of £589, standing at £15,592. About three thousand brethren had
gone away with the Forces, and some had already returned shattered in health or crippled. So far there had
been no calls for assistance, but when the war was over many calls were anticipated.
Both reports were adopted.
GENERAL PURPOSES.
The report of the Board of General Purposes was taken clause by clause and finally adopted.
The assembled brethren stood for a few moments as a mark of respect to the memory of distinguished
brethren who had passed away during the year.
The President of the Board, V.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, said it was pleasing to be able to state that the
Kirkpatrick Masonic Institution would be full after the summer vacation. He commended to the lodges the
Masonic Boys' Home at Papakura and urged sitting Masters to bring before the notice of their brethern the
fact that there were vacancies. As soon as the present home was filled it would be possible to go ahead with
another institution. The money was at hand, and all necessary arrangements were provided for under the
trusteeship.
V.W. Bro. Morpeth said that in the absence of a committee to administer the home, M.W. Bro. Oliver
Nicholson had made that responsibility one of his hobbies, and Grand Lodge was indebted to him for his
skill and ability in caring for it. He referred to the peculiar conditions laid down by the late Bro. Samuel
Potter, who made the bequest, and said he had provided for other homes to be added as required. Meanwhile,
the fund had steadily grown. It was a pity that money was lying idle, and he urged that something should be
done to give effect to the fuller purpose of Bro. Potter.
V.W. Bro. A. T. C. Sellars, P.Pres.B.B., said he believed one of the reasons for the poor response to Grand
Lodge's appeal for more children for the home was that there was some doubt about the conditions of entry
of children. He understood, for instance, that the children were debarred from the privilege of enjoying
secondary education under the grant. He suggested an examination of the conditions of trust with a view to
their amendment if thought desirable.
V.W. Bro. Hatch said he was puzzled to know why such a wonderful bequest had not been more utilised.
There were some 28,000 brethren in New Zealand and they were unable to fill one small home with
accommodation for ten boys. Other institutions not so well endowed had waiting lists. He wondered how
many Secretaries or Masters interviewed the widow after the decease of a brother to ascertain if she was
distressed and had boys of suitable age for admission to the home. If lodge officers would assist, the Grand
Lodge officers would do the rest. They wanted a waiting list so as to be able to build another home.
The Grand Treasurer, V.W. Bro. C. H. Taylor, pointed out that alterations of the terms of trust did not lie in
the hands of Grand Lodge, but could be effected through the Courts or by Act of Parliament.
The Grand Master said he had been most impressed with the home when he inspected it, and the boys were
very happy. It was a great pity that such a magnificent trust should be lying idle, and he hoped brethren
would draw attention to the matter on returning to their lodges.
The representation levy for 1943-44 was fixed at 1/-, and Dunedin was agreed to as the place for the meeting
of Grand Lodge next year.
W. Bro. E. Cannons was re-elected Auditor.
Grand Lodge adjourned at 12.45 p.m. until 2.30 p.m., and on resuming there was a keen debate on the
recommendation of the special committee that Grand Lodge Office be permanently located in Wellington.
The discussion under this head is reported under separate headings in this issue.
GRAND TYLER APPOINTED.
At 4.40 p.m. Grand Lodge adjourned until 10 a.m. on the following day, when, inter alia, machinery
amendments to the rules of Grand Lodge were adopted giving effect to the decision to appoint a Grand Tyler.
By special permission, a nomination which had been properly lodged for an appointment to this new office
was accepted and approved. W. Bro. Ivan Leonard Turnbull, of Lodge St. Clair, No. 246, Dunedin, thus
becomes the first Grand Tyler in New Zealand.
It was also agreed that the colour of the Grand Tyler's collar should be blue.
Before the business session concluded, appreciative reference was made by the Canterbury Provincial Grand
Lodge for the success of the Communication, and also to the work of the Presidents of the Boards and the
Grand Lodge officers during the year.
INSTALLATION CEREMONY.
The ceremony of installing the Grand Officers for the year was conducted on the Wednesday evening in the
Civic Theatre. There was a very large attendance.
The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Teagle, was inducted and invested by M.W. Bro. MacDiarmid, P.G.M., and
other principal Grand Officers were invested as follows:—
Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, of Auckland.
Provincial Grand Masters: Canterbury Province, R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson; Wellington District, R.W. Bro.
S. M. Stone; Auckland District, M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson; Otago District, R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes;
Waikato District, R.W. Bro. A. Bullock; Southland District, R.W. Bro. A. Noble; Ruapehu District, R.W.
Bro. J. A. Nash; Hawkes Bay District, R.W, Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield; Nelson and Marlborough District, R.W.
Bro. James Baird; West Coast District, R.W. Bro. F. F. Boustridge; Taranaki District, R.W. Bro. Dr. Wilfred
Simmons.
Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Nelson and Marlborough, V.W. Bro. J. Mogridge; Asst. Prey. G.M.
for Otago, V.W. Bro. J. Duncan.
Senior Grand Warden, R.W. Bro. Gilbert Waldie; Junior Grand Warden, R.W. Bro. Ernest H. Thomson.
Grand Lecturers: Canterbury Province, V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn; Wellington District. V.W. Bro. Rev. H.
R. Fell; Auckland District, V.W. Bro. A. Bright; Nelson and Marlborough District, V.W. Bro. S.
Cannington; Hawker Bay District, V.W. Bro. G. H. Davies.
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.
Addressing the gathering, M.W. Bro. Teagle acknowledged the double honour conferred on him by his re-
election, and expressed thanks to the brethren throughout the territory for their loyal support— support
which he said had enhanced his love for Freemasonry and enabled him more fully to treasure its ideals and
had helped to make the past year one of the happiest of his Masonic career. He prayed that he might be given
the ability to carry out even more efficiently his important duties, and that by his service he might retain and
even increase the esteem and approval of the brethren.
Looking around at that wonderful gathering, he said, they must be impressed by the fact that, in spite of the
strife and turmoil still raging throughout the world, they were able to meet and assemble in the manner
characteristic of Masons—in peace, love and harmony. They should remember that, as never before, they
had a responsibility to all freedom-loving people. He hoped they would realise their duty afresh, and with all
their energies of mind and body, strive to promulgate and exemplify throughout the world the principles they
loved and in which they placed their hope. Of all men. Freemasons had a heavy responsibility, because, as
members of an Order which had the background of religion, they were the custodians of the tools and
formulae required to build and rebuild the world that must be, if there was to continue real enlightenment,
progress and uplife. The ideals of Freemasonry would be needed as never before to master post-war
problems. War was caused by misunderstandings, animosity and bitterness; to ensure lasting peace there
must be love, understanding, toleration, charitableness, and brotherly kindness. Leaders would he needed,
and out of any society who should better be able to provide them than Freemasonry?
"In this tragic hour in history," the Grand Master continued. "we must consecrate ourselves anew to the task
of strengthening the agency through which we express our Masonic faith. Recognising the importance of
Masonic life and its value as a medium for moral and spiritual regeneration, we must dedicate ourselves with
renewed effort to the development of the great potentialities inherent in this Institution, so as to make of it a
real force in the motivation of human conduct. This is the only path by which we may have hope to mitigate,
and in time to overcome, the antagonism, the bitterness, and the prejudices which afflict the world, and help
restore a sense of comity among nations and a feeling of brotherhood among men. . . .
"Difficult days still lie ahead—days that will test our nation, our manhood, ourselves. Let us fortify ourselves
to meet the many ordeals we may be called upon to face in every walk of life, and also contribute our part to
alleviate the lot of suffering humanity, and thus by example strengthen our fellow-men. May we today
pledge ourselves anew to greater efforts in support of every cause that will hasten the end of this terrible
conflict, and when it is over and our boys come home they shall know that we have been worthy of them and
that while they bore the heat and burden of the day we also carried on and together have kept the lamps of
freedom trimmed and burning brightly as a beacon of hope to the oppressed and suffering peoples of the
earth, against the day when the Fatherhod of God shall be universally recognised and the Brotherhood of
Man become a blessed reality."
He concluded by expressing the hope that the day might not be far distant when the monster created by men,
motivated by greed, avarice, and the desire for power, would fall apart and its reign of bloodshed, ruth-
lessness, and bestial cruelty be no more. "And as we await the Dawn." he said, "let us face the problems and
perplexities of the day with confidence and faith in the Omnipotent Power of Him who said, 'Be of good
courage,' 'Fear not. I will help thee,' 'I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.' "
————————
OFFICES OF GRAND LODGE.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
TO BE CENTRALISED IN WELLINGTON.
———
KEEN DEBATE AT COMMUNICATION.
———
Probably no issue that has ever come before the Annual Communications of the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand has aroused more contention than proposals for the centralisation of the Grand Lodge Office. The
principle has been approved on occasions, either by vote in Grand Lodge or by a majority of lodges, only to
be revoked soon afterwards. The most notable debate took place at the meeting of Grand Lodge in 1913,
when the opponents prevailed by 338 votes to 254. Now, in its wisdom. Grand Lodge has adopted a
recommendation for the permanent location of its administrative offices in Wellington. This decision was
made after a keen debate at the Communication in Christchurch on November 24, on the basis of a report
submitted by a special committee of four which was set up last year.
The text of the committee's report, which was designed to meet some of the objections to centralisation that
were raised in earlier years, is as follows:—
The committee has given very full consideration to the matter outlined in the order of reference and has
come to the conclusion that the time has arrived when the system which necessitates the transfer of the
records and furniture of Grand Lodge and the staff and their families to a new home every two years should
be discontinued.
The difficulty of finding office and living accommodation is becoming greater. The task of packing,
transporting and unpacking puts the Grand Lodge Office out of action for at least six weeks every two years.
In fact, so great has this difficulty become that we are not transferring the whole of our records, some three
tons of which have been stored in Dunedin for the past four years, and these have not been available for
reference when required.
The total tonnage by measurement which has to be transported each time is approximately 80 tons, and a
great deal of manual labour is involved on the members of the staff, from the Grand Secretary downwards.
Books, records, pictures, and furniture alike are not improved by periodical transportation. The transference
of the furniture of three families, besides the contents of Grand Lodge Office, has to be provided for.
Temporary premises have to be taken each time Grand Lodge transfers its offices, and it is not always
possible to find accommodation exactly suitable for requirements. The layout and appointments of Grand
Lodge Office have to be adjusted to the premises available, and we can never have a Grand Lodge Office
under the present system which is in keeping with the dignity of the Craft or in which sufficient
consideration can be given to the comfort of the staff. The committee therefore recommends that Grand
Lodge Office be permanently situated in Wellington. Arrangements should be made for the necessary space
for office accommodation, board room, reception rooms, library, museum, etc., and such amenities as may
be necessary and in keeping with the dignity of Grand Lodge.
The chief executive officers should be chosen from the four main divisions in rotation in exactly the same
manner and rotation as at present. All meetings of the Boards to be held in the centre in which the chief
executive officers are for the time being resident. A small branch office be opened in the centre in which the
executive officers are for the time being situated. This office to be staffed by a permanent clerk from Grand
Lodge Office, who will travel round from centre to centre in the same manner as Grand Lodge Office has
done in the past.
Everything which requires the attention of the President or members of the Boards will be forwarded by
Grand Lodge Office to the branch office, where facilities will be available for their perusal by the Presidents
or members as the case may require and returned to Grand Lodge Office in Wellington with any necessary
comments or instructions. Certain files and books of Grand Lodge shall be kept at the branch office. These
will keep the clerk occupied. After consultation with the Grand Secretary, the committee is satisfied that this
is practicable. A board room will be hired as near as possible to the branch office for the meetings of the
Boards. The Grand Secretary will attend Board meetings each month, and will bring any files needed beyond
those kept in the branch office. He will be present at the branch office before each Board meeting to confer
with the Presidents. Anything important requiring the immediate decision of either of the Presidents will be
dealt with by telephone.
The expense of this scheme will not be much less than the present scheme, as the rent of the branch office
and the Grand Secretary's travelling expenses will have to be paid as well as moving expenses for the clerk
every other year, and sundry small expenses, but although no money is saved the advantages over the present
scheme will be great.
The above scheme will have the advantages of a Central Grand Lodge Office as well as the advantages to be
gained by having the executive officers from the four divisions in rotation. The only disadvantage will be the
distance of the executive officers from Grand Lodge Office. This, however, will be largely disposed of by
the establishment of the branch office. If the office is permanently located attention can be given to gathering
books for a Masonic library as well as exhibits of interest for a Masonic Museum. It is known that brethren
hesitate to donate or bequeath these valuable things to Grand Lodge because it has no permanent home and
therefore no safe repository for their treasures.
The committee consist of R.W. Bros. C. S. Thompson, Prov.G.M., Canterbury, J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M.,
Otago, and V.W. Bros. C. N. Cathie. Pres.Bd.G.P., and N. B. Spencer, P.Pres.Bd.G.P.
At the outset of the discussion, V.W. Bro. A. T. C. Sellars, P.Pres.B.B., raised the objection that brethren had
been insufficiently informed of the proposal and that only a very small proportion of the delegates had any
knowledge of it.
The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. H. G. Teagle, expressed surprise that any delegates should be present who had
not been instructed by their lodges, for he understood all lodges had been in a position to discuss the matter.
The Present Disadvantages.
Moving that the recommendations of the committee be approved, V.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, President of the
Board of General Purposes, said that the committee had thought it advisable to seek a means by which the
advantages of the system of ruling the Craft could be retained while disposing of the disadvantages as far as
possible. While it could be admitted that the suggestions made in the report might not give the ideal
arrangement, the committee believed the advantages would outweigh the disadvantages. "There is much to
be said for the retention of our peripatetic system as far as change of Grand Lodge officers is concerned," he
said. "The return of these honours to any centre gives an increased interest to the brethren of that district and
spreads the responsibilities of the good government of the Order in a manner which is very desirable. In a
country geographically planned as New Zealand is, with its four important centres, it is to be hoped that we
can always call on the best available in any of these groups, and provision is made to continue to function on
those lines. It is felt, however, that we lose greatly in dignity and considerably in efficiency, and take very
great and avoidable risks with all our necessary records, by continually changing the location of Grand
Lodge office. By not providing a permanent home for the office we lose valuable opportunities of gathering
books of great Masonic value and building up a library which would be available to the whole of the Craft in
New Zealand. One of the three best private Masonic libraries in the world has been willed away from Grand
Lodge because of this lack of permanent and safe location. Many other items of interest—photographs,
aprons, jewels and regalia—are kept in boxes instead of being on view.
"A Mason from another country visiting New Zealand has difficulty in locating our Grand Lodge office. He
is lucky if he finds it, for it is doubtful if a great percentage of members know its situation. When he does
find it, it is unlikely that he will be favourably impressed, for Grand Lodge office has for 53 years been
housed in temporary premises—no doubt the best available, but nevertheless seldom what would have been
considered suitable for a permanent home. We are the only English-speaking country which hides its Grand
Lodge Office perforce in this manner, and while it is not necessary to have our own building, we will
probably never make the impression with our own people, and certainly not with overseas visitors, which the
size and importance of the Craft in New Zealand warrants."
The question of location of Grand Lodge Office had been before Grand Lodge in one form or another
fourteen times, he continued; Westland District had brought it up three times. Auckland, Wellington,
Taranaki, and Ruapehu twice each, and Canterbury, Southland and Otago once each. He suggested that that
was ample evidence that in the minds of the brethren an improvement could be effected. The committee,
after careful examination of the problems inseparable from some of the suggestions made, had put forward
its report as a step in the right direction. The Grand Secretary had assured the committee that he would plan a
scheme which would operate efficiently.
V.W. Bro. Cathie also said that the rearrangement would be a great boon to the staff of Grand Lodge, who
looked forward with dread to the end of the second year of their term in any one centre, because of the
impending change in their domicile, with all the rearrangement of homes, etc., that was entailed. He appealed
to the brethren who had organised against the proposed experiment to reconsider the position, to draw on
their abundant store of consideration and brotherly love, and to give the staff the opportunity of working out
their own salvation on the lines of the report.
Seconding the motion, W. Bro. Walter Dobson, P.G.D., said that one objection to centralisation had been
that it would deprive other centres of direct representation on the boards. The present scheme disposed of
that. He could not believe the argument that interest in the Craft would be hindered in the three centres other
than Wellington, for there were provincial districts where Grand Lodge had never been located, and who
would suggest that Freemasonry had not progressed there? If it was found that the experiment did not work,
they could revert to the peripatetic system. The present system was most necessary at the time Grand Lodge
was inaugurated, when they were up against a Sister Constitution, but now that they were a sovereign body
surely they could stand on their own feet.
The Case Against.
M.W. Bro. Sir Stephen Allen, P.Pro G.M., in opposing the motion, said he had neither organised nor been
organised into any opposition. He expressed surprise at V.W. Bro. Cathie's implication of lack of
consideration and brotherly love towards the staff, and he protested against such an insinuation. He
commended to the brethren the arguments adduced at the 1913 Communication by W. Bro. Jolly against
centralisation—arguments which he submitted were conclusive. The main argument for centralisation
seemed to be that they should have a Grand Lodge Office worthy of the dignity of Grand Lodge. But nothing
had been said by the proposer as to the good of Freemasonry, which should be considered before the dignity
of Grand Lodge. The present system had been for the good of Freemasonry. As to the housing of Grand
Lodge records, he hoped the Grand Secretary would not, instead of performing his functions as such, become
a Grand Museum Keeper, to care for the pictures of past Grand officers and other curiosities which Grand
Lodge had collected during its 53 years of existence. If Grand Lodge office were situated in Wellington the
majority of lodge secretaries would never have an opportunity of contacting him. As to costs, they might be
considerably increased if a building were erected in Wellington for housing the records and curios. The most
serious objection to centralisation, however, was that it would be impossible for the Presidents of the Boards
to keep sufficiently in touch with the business of Grand Lodge to enable them to fulfil their duties properly.
Perhaps Wellington was the most suitable place for a repository of the dry bones and husks of Freemasonry,
but he doubted whether it was the best place otherwise for the centralisation of the Craft. He suspected that
the President of the Board of General Purposes had taken a hint from Hitler's "Mein Kampf" and was
attempting to use the thin end of the wedge, and that the office centralisation proposal was a prelude to
centralisation of Grand Lodge itself, whether in Wellington or elsewhere. He warned the brethren against
taking a step which it might be very difficult to retrace later. When the centralisation issue was submitted to
the lodges in 1933 it was defeated by a vote of 220 lodges to 79. In view of that opinion, it would be
inadvisable to take another snap vote before consulting the lodges.
The Grand Master pointed out that V.W. Bro. Cathie was not alone responsible for the report.
R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, Prov. G.M., suggested that the main consideration should be the greatest good
for the greatest number. Was it to be self or Freemasonry? They should put self aside and place the
institution first. He thought the scheme was in the interests of Freemasonry.
V.W. Bro. R. C. Rutherford, P.G.Lec., expressed regret that the report was not more far-reaching, and moved
as an amendment:
"That the scheme be referred back to the committee with an instruction to bring down a scheme providing
for complete reorganisation of the Constitution of Grand Lodge and the formation of one representative
board, with members drawn from all parts of the territory."
This was seconded by V.W. Bro. J. P. Thomson, P.G.D.C., who said that while he believed reform of the
Constitution was necessary he could not support the motion for amending the Constitution as it was
presented. He had yet to hear of any big institution which had its chief executive officer in Wellington and its
directorate in Dunedin or Auckland. It seemed that the committee had produced a compromise report which
they hoped might be accepted, and that they could not put forward a report for complete reoganisation
because they knew it would not be acceptable. He did not believe they could retrace their steps if the scheme
failed. The whole basis of the scheme was to establish in Wellington a permanent institution; if that was
achieved it was absolutely certain that Grand Lodge would soon be involved in the provision of a building.
Once they did that they could not turn back.
V.W. Bro. C. H. Taylor. G.R., said he sincerely trusted the amendment would not be carried. The committee
had put forward an intelligible and coherent suggestion. It would be unwise to refer the matter back, and he
suggested that brethren should confine themselves to expressing approval or disapproval of the
recommendation. The executive officers and the Board of General Purposes would then know where they
stood.
An Outworn System.
Supporting the report, R.W. Bro. F. F. Boustridge, Prov. G.M., said that the peripatetic system was
introduced 53 years ago because there was a great deal of opposition at that time to the formation of a Grand
Lodge of New Zealand. In their wisdom, the brethren of the time decided, perhaps as a compromise, on a
peripatetic Grand Lodge Office so as to offer some special inducement in the four divisions of New Zealand
to join in the formation of a national Grand Lodge. Today it was found that there was no further need for
such a system. They were a sovereign body, and therefore it was quite in order, he said, to decide "to sit
down and no longer be an Ishmael among Freemasonry, wandering hither and yon through the world." Were
the opponents of the present scheme prepared to allow the peripatetic system to become fully peripatetic and
spread over the rest of the country, or were they going to confine it to the four centres? The reason for the
establishment of the peripatetic system had passed, and it was time they settled down.
W. Bro. Matthew Blair. P.S.G.D., regarded the proposal as the thin end of the wedge in order to permanently
locate Grand Lodge Office in one centre, depriving the majority of those in the Craft of actual touch with
Grand Lodge Office. Soon it would be necessary to have a records office to house Grand Lodge's records.
After all, of what value were they? The bulk of them were never perused or consulted.
V.W. Bro. R. B. Cape-Williamson, G.Lec.. said they had a right, tight little ship, and they should guard
against starting a rivet that might result in damage to the whole craft. He could not see that the scheme
propounded would further the cause of Freemasonry. It was said that the periodic removal of Grand Lodge
Office did harm to Freemasonry. He thought it rather stimulated the brethren's interest. The committee
appeared to have been mesmerised on the question of records and baggage. Apparently they had got into one
of their own boxes, somebody had thrown the lid down and snapped the lock, and they had lost their horizon.
After all, were the records and staff the servants or the masters of Grand Lodge? "Let us say of Grand
Lodge," he urged, "that this is the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in New Zealand and not the Grand Lodge of
New Zealand in Wellington. They should adhere to the scheme that had built up Freemasonry. If they started
to tinker with it the whole establishment might fall.
The Amendment Defeated.
At this stage the Grand Master suggested that the time had come to put the amendment, and on a show of
hands it was lost overwhelmingly.
Continuing the debate on the original motion, R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M.. said that the very fact that
the matter of centralisation had come forward repeatedly showed very clearly that there was a considerable
body of opinion that was not satisfied with the present arrangement. Various proposals had been examined
by the committee, and while he personally would prefer a system providing not only for permanence of
location but also smaller boards the whole personnel of which would be able to take a live and active interest
in the deliberations, thus ensuring a forward and continuous policy, he nevertheless agreed that the time was
not right for a radical move for reconstruction of the boards. The proposal was a definite advance, even
though it was admittedly only one of moderation. He thought the scheme could be embarked on with the
utmost confidence, and if it was unsatisfactory it would not be very difficult to revert to the existing system.
R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov.G.M., said he resented the suggestion that the recommendation was only
the thin end of the wedge. Actually, three of the four members of the committee were opposed to complete
centralisation. He did not support complete centralisation, but the report gave the brethren a reasonable
alternative, and if it was rejected he felt sure the committee would not object at all. They had done their
work.
Replying to the discussion, V.W. Bro. Cathie stressed that the committee had tried to seek a means of
improving the present arrangement, as instructed. If the scheme was approved, Grand Lodge would have the
blessing of the staff. If not, the committee would say it had given the best it was capable of. He expressed the
opinion that the dignity of the Craft and the good of the Craft were so closely allied that one could not be
stressed without involving the other.
The Grand Master put the motion on a show of hands, and V.W. Bro. Morpeth, G.T., rose to demand a
ballot. This resulted in 513 votes in favour of the report and 466 against.
When Grand Lodge proceeded to discuss alterations to the rules to give effect to the change, V.W. Bro.
Sellars sought to move an amendment that before the report was implemented a ballot should be taken of all
eligible members of Grand Lodge. The Grand Master disallowed such an amendment on the ground that
further discussion on the report itself could not be admitted.
R.W. Bro. F. C. Wade, P.Prov.G.M., moved that discussion of the machinery alterations to the rules be
deferred until the next Annual Communication so that brethren present might return to their lodges and
discuss the matter further. After brief discussion this was put and lost. The machinery amendments were then
agreed to.
Notice of motion was given on behalf of St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 8, to move at the next communication
"That the motion changing the itinerary of Grand Lodge Office be rescinded."
————————
R. W. BRO. J. J. PICKETT.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
Celebrates 90th Birthday and 60th Masonic Birthday.
————
R.W. Bro. J. J. Pickett, Hawkes Bay's grand old man of Freemasonry, celebrated his 90th birthday on
October 30th. To him who has so endeared himself to all went out warm-hearted congratulations of the
brethren of the territory. Opportunity was taken to mark the occasion in a fitting -manner by the members of
Lodge Haeata, who held a special meeting, which was
largely attended by the brethren of the district, when
tangible recognition was shown of the esteem and
affection in which the beloved brother is held.
Affectionately known as "Dad" to large numbers of the
brethren in the territory, Bro. Pickett has made a
contribution to Freemasonry of which he has every
reason to feel proud. Few members after 60 years of
Masonic labour have retained the activity and interest that
Bro. Pickett continues to show. Age has in no way borne
upon him. Renowned as a ritualist, his giving of charges
is ever a source of inspiration. His rendition of the final
charge of the First Degree on the occasion that marked
his birthday was something that will long be remembered
by all present. Except for being hard of hearing, Bro.
Pickett retains all his faculties. A feature is his
remarkable memory, which the years have not dulled.
Only three weeks previously he conducted the
Installation of the Scinde Rose Croix Chapter. His regular
attendance at meetings is almost without parallel, and the
thoroughness for which he has long been noted is
something that younger men can well emulate.
Few men have endeared themselves more in the hearts of
his brethren than Bro. Pickett, and this is something that
he feels as a great reward for his labours.
The occasion to honour such a milestone in his life was a
real joy to the brethren. Bro. Pickett's labours in the Craft,
Capitular and Rose Croix Masonry are a record of endeavour that will find a prominent and deserving place
in the history of Freemasonry in New Zealand.
Born in London in 1853, he came to New Zealand as a young man and joined the Postal Department at
Dunedin in 1875. He served at various centres in New Zealand, to retire from the service as chief postmaster
at Timaru in 1919, and has since lived in retirement in Hastings. He was initiated in Lodge Greytown in
1883, and was installed as the first W.M. of Lodge Abercorn under the New Zealand Constitution. His next
move in Grand Lodge was his appointment as Superintendent of Works in 1906. In 1933 he was appointed
Grand Warden. Bro. Pickett is a foundation member of Lodge Haeata, of which he was Secretary for the first
six years.
His advanced years have been no bar to his attending and assisting in the Installations in the most distant
parts of the territory, the long journeys late at night having little effect on him.
A similar active interest has, claimed Bro. Pickett in Capitular Masonry. He was exalted in Paeroa Chapter in
1913, Comp. Sir Stephen Allen being in the chair of Z. Comp. Pickett was 1st Principal of Heretaunga
Chapter in 1923, and six years later was appointed Superintendent of the Hawkes Bay District. Six years ago
he was made G.H.
No less have been his interests in Rose-Croix Masonry. He was perfected in the Hawkes Bay Chapter in
March, 1920, being elected M.W.S. of the Chapter in 1928. In 1936 Ex. and P. Bro. Pickett was elevated to
the 30th Degree, and further elevated to the 31st Degree last year.
On behalf of the brethren of Lodge Haeata, opportunity was taken by W. Bro. W. E. Bate. W.M., to convey
to R.W. Bro. Pickett affectionate congratulations on reaching his ninetieth year. As a slight mark of the
esteem in which he is held he asked the veteran brother to accept a presentation. "By your zeal and assiduity
in the discharge of every Masonic duty, your exemplification of every Masonic virtue. and your constant
adherence to the grand principles of the Order, you have shed a kindly and gentle light upon the way we all
must tread, and have shown us all by your life in the Lodge and out of it, the way of Truth, of Honour and of
Virtue," said the W.M. "I doubt if any brother has made a greater contribution in Hawkes Bay to
Freemasonry than you have done, and I feel certain that no brother has ever occupied in the affections of the
brethren of this district a higher place than you do." he added.
In the refectory the festive board was adorned by a birthday cake bearing a candle for each decade. W. Bro.
J. E. Jones, the first W.M. of Lodge Haeata, said that Bro. Pickett had gained for himself the riches of
brotherhood which exceeded those of material worth. His example would long shine in the hearts of the
brethren, and it was the wish of all that he would yet be long spared to give of his great talents to the Craft.
Supporting Bro. Jones, R.W. Bro. R. D. Waugh, P.P.G.M., in referring to the influence that Bro. Pickett had
long exercised, said that no one was more welcome in the lodges. He had shown a sense of humour, and with
the spirit of humility that always marked him, Bro. Pickett never failed to win the hearts of the brethren.
For many years Bro. Pickett has had the support and companionship of his daughter, and opportunity was
taken by the W.M. to ask "Dad" to accept on her behalf a handbag as a mark of the respect and esteem in
which she is held by the brethren.
Rising to acknowledge the good wishes and presentations, Bro. Pickett was warmly applauded. He expressed
deep appreciation of the thought shown by the Lodge to his daughter, who for years had been his standby. He
greatly appreciated the wonderful kindness that had been shown him, and was deeply thankful for the
goodwill that had long been extended to him. He believed that his Masonic work had been an inducement to
him to keep fit, and it had been a great pleasure to him to be ready for anything when called upon.
Throughout his long life he had found it a good thing not to worry, while work in his garden was a joy to
him.
Congratulations and good wishes were received by Bro. Pickett from the M.W. Bro. H. G. Teagle, G.M.
Also the day prior to his birthday Bro. Pickett received an air-graph from England conveying happy wishes
for him on his 90th birthday.
————————
REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF. FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
(Published by the Authority of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.)
———
FLORIDA.
220 Lodges, 21,004 members, a gain of 722.
114th Annual Communication, held at Jacksonville, 20th, 21st and 22nd April, M.W. Bro. George T. Taylor,
G.M., presiding. Nine P.G.Ms. were present.
After reporting that the Grand Lodge was for the first time in many years free of debt, the last outstanding
bonds having been paid, the Grand Master said: "We may congratulate ourselves on our material progress,
but what have we done in the spiritual realm to warrant our existence? Have our brothers, our families, our
friends and humanity been benefited by the high ideals of the Fraternity? I hope they have."
There were 23 children and 21 adults in the Masonic Home. The Emergency Relief Committee assisted 36
cases to the extent of $3411.
Fifteen Fifty-year Veteran Certificates were issued.
W. Bro. James Donn, Grand Orator, spoke on the "Solidarity of Masonry Within the English-speaking De-
mocracies." concluding with these words: "Let the facts be faced. Let there be no mistake about it. The future
peace and tranquility of the world depends entirely upon the unity existing between the Anglo-Saxon people.
To accomplish this task will require great understanding and toleration of each other's virtues and limitations,
to give and to take, to be charitable one to the other. Perhaps in this, Masonry will live its noblest hour, and
history record her greatest victory. Masonry has always reached across the gap between the idealist and the
practical in a sincere effort to put into practice those ideals which are rooted deeply in those precious virtues
which cannot be bought or sold—the faith and integrity of the human soul."
A levy of 75 cents was imposed on each Mason of the Jurisdiction to establish a Masonic Welfare Fund for
the aid, assistance and relief of Masons and Masons' sons in the armed services and their dependants.
The Reviews by M.W. Bro. Wallace R. Cheves (back on his old job after an interval of some years) cover
the U.S.A. and Canada only.
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Fred B. Noble, Jacksonville.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Geo. W. Huff, Jacksonville.
Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. R. J. Hancock, Palatka.
Grand Representative at N.Z.: M.W. Bro. James H. Harkness. P.G.M., Westport.
———
NEW HAMPSHIRE, 1943.
81 Lodges, 12,768 members, a gain of 23.
Semi-Annual Communication held at Manchester, November 17th, 1942, and 154th Annual Communication
held at Concord, May 19th. M.W. Bro. Robert C. Laing G.M., presiding at both.
The War Service Committee kept in contact with 801 Masons, 893 sons of Masons. 24 daughters of Masons,
and 50 De Molay boys who were not sons of Masons, serving in the Armed Forces.
There were forty-eight guests in the Masonic Home.
A P.G.M.'s jewel was presented to the retiring Grand Master and Grand Master's apron to his successor.
The 126 pages of Reviews by the Grand Secretary include a page devoted to New Zealand, 1941.
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Harold H. Hart, Wolfeboro.
Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. J. Melvin Dresser, P.G.M.. Concord.
Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Robert H. Barnard, Keene.
Grand Representative at N.Z.: RW. Bro. Alfred Bullock, Prov.G.M., Hamilton.
———
NOVA SCOTIA, 1943.
84 Lodges, 8303 members, a gain of 132.
78th Annual Communication held at Halifax on June
9th, M.W. Bro. Geoffrey Stevens, G.M., presiding.
The Past Grand Officers present were five P.G.Ms., six
P.D.G.Ms., and six P.G.Ws.
Divine Service was held in the Lodgeroom. A sermon
on "Some Things That Cannot Be Destroyed" was
preached by R.W. Bro. Rev. T. W. Hodgson, Grand
Chaplain, the particular "Things" mentioned being
"Great Literature," "Truth," 'True Friendship," "The
Human Soul,"
During the year the Grand Master visited
Newfoundland at the request of the Grand Lodge of
England, and installed the District G.M. of
Newfoundland.
There were 15 male and 13 female guests in the Masonic Home, with 8 outside guests receiving assistance.
Twenty-eight Fifty-year Jewels were presented during the year.
The Grand Historian, M.W. Bro. R. V. Harris, K.C., completed another eight chapters of his History of
Freemasonry in the Maritime Provinces, making 74 written to date, with another 15 begun and partly written.
The usual complete lists of members of the Lodges are included in the Volume.
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. W. T. Powers, Lulenberg.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. James C. Jones, P.D.G.M., Halifax.
Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. D. A. Thompson, P.D.G.M., Halifax.
Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Clifford S. T. Thompson, Prov.G.M., Christchurch.
———
SASKATCHEWAN, 1943.
198 Lodges, 12,129 members, a gain of 55.
37th Annual Communication held at Saskatoon, 16th and 17th June, M.W. Bro. Douglas Fraser, G.M.,
presiding.
15 P.G.Ms. were present.
The assembled brethren, led by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, joined in the following dedicatory
pledge:—"On my faith and honour I do now solemnly and sincerely promise and vow henceforth to devote
myself with greater service and sacrifice to the practice of the tenets and towards the attainments of the
ideals of our time-honoured Institution. I reaffirm my belief in the Supreme Being, in His revealed will, and
in His certain punishment of vice and reward of virtue. I declare my loyalty and allegiance to H.M. the King
and pledge myself to do all in my power to support all undertakings destined to ensure victory for our arms
and a just and lasting peace. So help me God and keep me steadfast, and may the Most High prosper our
united endeavours.—Amen."
Initiations gradually rose from 151 in 1934 to 380 in 1943. Four Fifty-year Gold Buttons were presented.
The Trustees of the Benevolent Fund granted $13,643 to 88 beneficiaries.
The Grand Master recommended that the Master elect of each Lodge be required to satisfy the Board of
Examiners of his proficiency in the funeral ceremony (in addition to the existing requirement of the degree
work), but the proposal was not approved.
The Most Worshipful the Grand Master referred to a personal message received from Bro. Duncan
McFarlane, of Paragon Lodge, No. 118, Kelfield, a veteran of 93 years of age and 71 years' standing as a
Mason, who, through slight indisposition, regretfully was prevented at the last moment from attending this
Communication. A message of fraternal affection of the brethren assembled was directed to be sent to our
brother.
M.W. Bro. Karl J. Mohr. Grand Master of Illinois. U.S.A., one of three visiting Grand Masters, delivered an
inspiring address on the united war effort on the evening of the first day.
The 69 pages of Reviews do not include N.Z.
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. S. J. A. Branion, K.C., Prince Albert.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Robt. A. Tate, Regina.
Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. F. B. Reilly, P.G.M., Regina.
Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. J. D. Webster, P.G.W., Auckland.
———
VERMONT, 1943.
103 Lodges, 16,018 members, a gain of 5.
150th Annual Communication held at Burlington, 9th and 10th June, M.W. Bro. Cady L. Earle, G.M.,
presiding.
The Past Grand Officers present (described as Permanent Members) were seven P.G.Ms. and 15 Past Grand
Deacons.
Emergent Communications were held to conduct the funerals of two P.G.Ms.
50 Fifty-year Buttons were presented.
$8006 were raised for a War Service Fund.
A full list of members of the various Lodges fills 130 pages of small type.
The 122 pages of Reviews by the Grand Secretary included two devoted to New Zealand, 1941, covering
most points of general interest, and speaking with approval of the response to a Circular Appeal as showing
"such a keen interest in charity calls, and such a complete and generous response."
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Cady L. Earle, St. Albans.
Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Aaron H. Grout, P.G.M., Burlington.
Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. Henry L. Ballou, P.G.M., Chester.
Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Joseph Morling, P.Prov.G.M. Auckland.
————————
THE NUMBER THREE IN MASONRY.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
The number three, considered generally, is one of the most interesting numbers. It is common to all Indo-
European languages. Its etymological evolution is interesting in that it is derived from the root "Tri. " which
is a derivative of "Tar," and it is literally translated "to go" or "going further than two. " Hence three is one
more than two. It is the sum of one and two. It represents the total of the numbers up to three. It is a symbol
representing three units, each of which units is separate and distinct. The number three is so universally
employed by and related to matters of universal interest that it may be properly termed and designated—the
universal number. The number three is of greater interest and more importance to Masons than to any other
class of persons.
The first step within a Masonic lodge room reveals the universal use of the number three in Masonry. This
impresses the profane and the initiate alike. Even to the profane it is at once apparent that the number three is
deeply and profoundly interwoven into the warp and woof of Masonic symbolism. Every Mason learns early
in his Masonic career that a Masonic lodge is under the direction of three principal officers. These three
principal officers occupy stations in three important places in the lodge room. The three separate locations or
positions of the three principal officers symbolise the three principal daily stations of the sun, which rises in
the east in the morning, attains its meridian height at noon, and finally sets in the west at the close of day.
These three daily stations of the sun are symbols of the three principal stages of human life, which are youth,
manhood and age. In youth, like the sun, we arise in the east in the newness and morning of life. In
manhood, like the sun at noon, we attain the meridian height of life, usefulness and success. Finally, in age,
as in the evening of life, we go down in the west, just as the sun sinks beneath the western horizon at the
close of day. Thus ends life as a tale is told and as a day comes to an end.
The three principal stages of life are emphasised and represented again and again in Masonic symbolism.
The three steps on the Master's carpet; the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry with three sections each;
the three Greater and Lesser Lights; the three principal working tools and the three charges, all are
illustrative of Freemasonry's use of Craft Masonry. There are no higher degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry.
The three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry teach the three great virtues, namely, Faith, Hope, and Charity.
These degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry also represent the three principal characters of man. The Entered
Apprentice degree represents the physical man; the Fellowcraft degree represents the intellectual man, and
the Master Mason degree symbolises the spiritual man. The three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry,
considered collectively, represent the Triune man—man who possesses the physical, intellectual and spiritual
nature, which we associate with body, mind and soul. The three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry also
allude to the three principal stages of human life, namely, youth, manhood and age. From this symbolism and
its processes of evolution we perceive the three duties which man owes. The first is to God, the second is to
his neighbour, and the third is to himself.
The grand fabric of Freemasonry constantly employs the number three in its scheme of construction and in
the interpretation of its symbolism. The classification and arrangement of Freemasonry's various and varied
arts, parts, points, lights, rights and symbols deeply impress upon the mind and memory its wise and serious
truths. We, therefore, have three great pillars. We know there must be wisdom, strength and beauty to
support any great or important undertaking. We can associate wisdom, strength and beauty with the three
principal builders of the Temple, namely, Solomon, King of Israel; Hiram. King of Tyre, and the other
Hiram, known as the builder, and who was the widow's son. These three distinguished members of our Craft
are recognised as our first three Grand Masters.
The teachings of Masonry seek to dispel darkness and destroy evil in the lives of men. Light is thrice sought
and thrice obtained. Masonry generously bestows upon all of those who earnestly knock at its portals, Light,
More Light, and Further Light. The three Lesser Lights depict the three important points of the Masonic
corn-pass, and emphasise the philosophy by which Masons seek to shun the other particular point of the
compass. God said, at the dawn of creation. "Let there be light." Masonry has appropriated those words to its
use and benefit, and has incorporated the message of light in the spirit of its philosophy, and thus Masons
shun darkness.
Masonry builds and develops human character. It seeks to prepare the candidate for the way of life. It seeks
to point out a way of life which is beneficent and satisfying to all those who enter upon it with intelligence
and pursue it with diligence. It seeks to enable the Mason to successfully transcend above and beyond the
testing and exacting trials and tribulations of life. Hence everyone who has taken the three degrees of
Masonry has met three great and severe tests. So that we find in the symbolism portrayed in the Masonic
drama the ever-recurring use of the number three. The three tests which are thrice exacted; the three great
lessons taught by the three men of Tyre, all as woven into a deep and profound legend. Masons are taught the
fundamental truth concerning the important considerations of life. Among these we find three, namely,
death, immortality, and resurrection.
The symbolism of Freemasonry directs its appeal to the mind, considers the body, and concerns the soul of
man.
Belief in God is requisite to membership in our Order— a God who is supreme in earth, sea and air, and
Who has brought forth the three kingdoms of creation, namely, the animal, vegetable and mineral kingdoms.
In evaluating these interesting things, Masonry has declared three of the human senses to be most important.
They are called the "Three Great Masonic Senses." They are seeing, hearing and feeling, because of their
respective reference to certain modes of recognition, and by their use Masons are enabled to practise that
universal language, the possession of which is the boast of the Order.
We could extend our consideration of this subject to great length without exhausting the extensive manner in
which the number three is employed by our symbolism. A mere superficial reflection upon this subject will
bring to mind the use and importance of this particular number in our Masonic work. It is employed by and
related to much of our symbolism, a discussion which propriety forbids in an article of this character. We
may justly conclude that in Masonry's use of numbers the number three occupies such a conspicuous position
in all things Masonic as to designate it as Freemasonry's favourite numeral.
—"Indiana Freemason."
————————
HAWKES BAY NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
The Annual Convocation of Bedford Royal Chapter. No. 39, was .held on Saturday, 30th October, when R.E.
Comp. J. W. Elliott, Grand Supt., installed E. Comp. T. H. Roach as 1st Principal Z. There was a large
attendance of Companions and visitors from throughout the District.
At the monthly meeting of Heretaunga R.A. Chapter on Thursday, 14th November, the Royal Arch Degree
was conferred on behalf of Victoria Chapter, No. 4, who paid an official visit for the occasion.
R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, Prov. G.M.. during his sojourn in Gisborne and East Coast, visited Waiapu, No.
241, Tokomaru Bay, and Abercorn No. 76, Gisborne, and on both occasions M.W. Bro. Sir Stephen Allan,
P.Prov.G.M., was in attendance, as was R.W. Bro. A. Bullock. Prov. G.M. of the Waikato District. A visit
was also paid to Lodge Turanganui, No 1480, E.C., and Lodge Montrose, No. 722, S.C.. both of Gisborne.
There being no degree work at the November regular meeting of Lodge Te Mata, 298, V.W. Bro. E. E. Bott,
P.G. Lecturer, gave a very interesting lecture, taking as his subject "The Second Degree."
W. Bro. A. E. Smith. W.M. of Lodge Waikaremoana, No. 158, and officers, attended the Installation of
Lodge Waiapu, No. 241, Tokomaru Bay. and Lodge Abercorn, No. 76, Gisborne.
W. Bro. R. Davis, W.M. Lodge Omarunui, No. 216, also attended the Installation of Lodge Abercorn, No.
76.
It is with deep regret we learn of the serious illness of W. Bro. W. A. Timms, P.M. Lodge Heretaunga, also
W. Bro. H. J. W. S. Whyte, P.M. Lodge Te Mata. Brethren throughout the district extend sincere good
wishes for a speedy recovery.
Bro. K. J. Wright, Lodge Te Mata, is still confined to hospital, having been an inmate for many months. We
trust he will soon be restored to good health.
W. Bro. T. S. Norris, W.M. Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, is indisposed, and best wishes for his speedy recovery
are extended by members of Abercorn and sister Lodges in the District.
————————
TARANAKI NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
Bro. L. A. Taylor gave an interesting address on the "Landmarks" at the October meeting of Lodge Taranaki.
Patea, Kil., worked a First Degree on 10th November, and the Secretary, W. Bro. R. M. Stevens, gave an
address in the refectory.
Mt. Egmont Lodge, No. 670, E.C., held an emergency meeting on November 10th, when the Past Masters
initiated a candidate. W. Bro. G. C. Bellringer was in the chair.
In the last issue of the Craftsman it is stated that W. Bro. J. J. Pickett, now residing in Hastings, celebrated
his 90th birthday in October. Many brethren in Taranaki would like to be associated with the good wishes
expressed in the Craftsman. W. Bro. J. J. Pickett was for some years Treasurer of Lodge Stratford, and in the
refectory of that lodge his portrait holds an honoured place.
Congratulations to those W. Brethren who have been honoured with Grand Lodge rank.
Dr. W. T. Simmons, the new Prov.G.M., is a Mason of very wide experience, and takes an interest, and a
very active interest, in every branch of Masonic activity in Taranaki. He will have the loyal support and
assistance of the Grand Lodge officers, past and present, and the cordial co-operation of the officers and
brethren of the various lodges.
The appointment of W. Bro. Dr. D. Steven as G. Deacon is a very popular one in Central Taranaki. The
doctor is an ardent F.M.. has passed through the chairs in R.A. Masonry, and is at present M.W.S. of the
Taranaki R.C. Chapter.
W. Bro. J. C. Duff, who has been appointed A.G.D.C., is a popular member of Lodge Manaia and should
make an excellent G.L. officer.
————————
MANAWATU NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
Otaihape Lodge, No. 142, has a new Master, W. Bro. C. W. Newport, who was installed on the 2nd
November by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov. G.M., assisted by W. Bro. P. W. Morris. P.A.G.D.C., W. Bor. C.
le F. Honore, P.G.S., organist. and Bro. A. Jenkins, trumpeter. The W.M. was addressed by W. Bro. T. W.
Pairman. P.A.G.D.C. The Wardens were invested by W. Bro. G. N. MacDiarmid. P.A.G.D.C.. and addressed
by W. Bro. A. B. Swedlund. W. Bro. L. N. Ritchie, P.G.St.B., invested the other officers. and R.W. Bro. J.
A. Nash, Prov.G.M., addressed the brethren. A feature of the refectory proceedings was a very delightful
supper provided by the ladies.
W. Bro. C. W. Teppett was installed as W.M. of United Manawatu Lodge, No. 1271, E.C., on 23rd October.
The R.W. District Grand Master. R.W. Bro. J. W. Jack, was in attendance .and the ceremony was carried out
by W. Bro. E. G. Dobson, D.G.Std., W. Bro. R. W. Priest, P.D.G.St.B., W. Bro. Tennent, D.G.C., W. Bro. C.
B. Williamson, P.D.G.A.Sw.B., W. Bro. J. A. Grant, P.D.G.W., and Bro. A. R. Guthrie acted as trumpeter;
W. Bros. Glen. Scoular, and Green were presentation officers; W. Bro. A. W. Thompson. D.G.D.C.,
addressed the Master. W. Bro. W. W. Coutts, P.D.G.C., addressed the Wardens, and R.W. Bro. J. W. Jack,
D.G.M., addressed the brethren. During the past years the new W.M. has rendered a great service to the craft
in general throughout this district, has been unstinting in his services as organist and pianist, and as a result
every Lodge was well represented to do honour to W. Bro. Teppett.
The Horowhenua Royal Arch Chapter held its Installation on 20th October, when Ex. Comp. John W. Simms
was enthroned as 1st Principal Z. by M.Ex. Comp. George Russell, P.G.Z., who was assisted by other
distinguished Grand Chapter officers. V.Ex. Comp. H. Walker was installed as 2nd Principal H. by R.Ex.
Comp. S. T. S. Martin, P.G.H., and Ex. Comp. J. C. Moody as 3rd Principal J. by V.Ex. Comp. J. McArdle,
P.G.D.C. The addresses were given by R.Ex. Comps. R. J. Foss, P.G.T., R. Hatch, G.T., A. McLaren, P.G.T..
and W. A. Waters, Grand Supt. of the Ruapehu District.
The Installation of Otaihape Royal Arch Chapter was held on 22nd October, when Ex. Comp. H. Hayman
was installed and addressed by R.Ex. Comp. W. A. Waters, Grand Supt. of the Ruapehu District. Ex. Comp.
L. Mahoney and Ex. Comp. T. W. Pairman were installed as 2nd and 3rd Principals respectively. M.Ex.
Comp. W. H. Sandford, 1st Grand Principal Z,, was in attendance and installed Bro. H. Hayman as M.
Master, and also addressed the Companions of the Chapter. Addresses were also given by R.Ex. Comp. W.
A. Waters, Grand Supt., V.Ex. Comps. L. N. Ritchie, P.G.D.C., and Marsh, Swedlund. P.G.St.B., and
Anderson. V.Ex. Comp. Ritchie, P.G.D.C.. carried out the duties of Grand Director of Ceremonies
The Marama Chapter Rose Croix of H.R.D.M.. No. 224. held their Installation on the 13th November, when
E. and P. P. A. V. Pizzey was installed for the second year. Owing to illness, the Grand Inspector General of
the Central Division was unable to attend, his deputy being Ill. Bro. T. R. Lees, 31°.
————————
SOUTHLAND NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
The celebration of the 60th year of faithful service in the cause of Freemasonry was carried out in a fitting
manner by the brethren of Lodge Harvey, No. 49 (Gore), on 17th November, in the presence of a large
assemblage of members and visitors.
R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, D.G.M., was present at this meeting, attended by R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M.,
and a good following of Grand officers, and conducted the ceremony of "Consecration of the Temple."
Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, conducted the ceremony of Advancement at their monthly
Convocation held last month. This Chapter will meet a week earlier than usual this month, owing to the near
approach of the Xmas and New Year holidays.
The quarterly meeting of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No, 36, will be held on 22nd December.
Ill. Bro. G. J. Reed, 30°. Commander of the Zealandia Consistory, and Invercargill members, attended the
annual meeting at Dunedin on 20th December.
R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., and a number of Grand officers paid an official visit to Lodge Taringatura,
No. 100, on 15th November and presented several Grand officers with Grand Lodge regalia as a mark of
respect and esteem from the members of the Lodge. The ceremony of Initiation was also worked by the
W.M. and his officers and received the congratulations of the Prov. Grand Master.
W. Bro. A. Scott was installed for a further term as Supreme Ruler of the Invercargill Conclave of Secret
Monitors at the annual meeting of this unit of Freemasonry held in Invercargill last month. One new member
was instructed in the mysteries of this beautiful branch of the Craft.
V. Em. Knt. S. C. K. Smith, accompanied by Invercargill members of the Dunedin Conclave of Red Cross of
Constantine, attended the quarterly meeting, held at Dunedin on 20th December.
The installation of Master and the investiture of officers of Lodge Winton, No. 108, was held on November 2
in the presence of a large attendance of members and visitors. R.W. Bro. A. Noble. Prov.G.M., was present
with his usual excellent attendance of Grand officers, and installed Bro. H. A. Knowles into the chair of K.S.
R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, D.G.M., was present and delivered the Address to the Brethren.
Lodge St. John, No. 94, will hold their annual "Scotch Night" on 16th December, when the ceremonial work
will once again be conducted by the Past Masters. No doubt a large attendance will be recorded, in spite of
the petrol and other war restrictions. For a number of years past this has been regarded as one of the
outstanding meetings of the year.
The W.M., officers, and a number of members of The Service Lodge, No. 237 (Dunedin), paid their annual
fraternal visit to Lodge Victoria, No. 147, on 13th November, and conducted the ceremony of raising in a
most impressive and dignified manner before a large and appreciative audience.
The installation of Frater A. W. G. McKee as Preceptor of the Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars will
be held on December 9th.
Members of the Craft throughout the district will regret to learn that R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M.,
recently met with a slight motor accident sufficient for him to lie up for a short period.
Officers of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, accompanied by a good following of brethren, attended divine
service at All Saints' Church, Invercargill, on Sunday, 31st October, to celebrate the 65th Anniversary of the
Church, the foundation-stone of which was laid on 24th May, 1877, by W. Bro. W. J. Moffett.
Christmas parties for the children have been arranged to be held by a couple of the Invercargill Lodges on
suitable dates before the festive season.
Lodge Victoria, No. 147, was supplied with a candidate from Lodge St. John, No. 94, for its November
meeting, which was conducted by The Service Lodge (Dunedin), which recently paid its annual fraternal
visit.
R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., is at present on holiday at Queenstown. While there he will no doubt pay
a visit to the local bowling green.
Huiroa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 47, conducted the ceremony of Acknowledgment last month.
————————
OTAGO NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–
The recent sudden death of V.W. Bro. Dr. Thomas McKibbon, P.G.D.C., and a member of Service Lodge
No. 237, came as a painful shock to his many Otago brethren. A Past Master of Empire Lodge, No. 225,
Wellington, and later joining his Dunedin Lodge, he was for many years a stalwart of the Craft in this
District, enjoying the confidence and esteem of the brethren, and when he was quite recently selected for the
office of G.D.C. the choice gave universal satisfaction, and his performance of these duties was outstanding.
Brethren are delighted to learn of the progress being made by V.W. Bro. Gilbert Waldie, P.G.D.C., from his
serious illness, and hope he will soon be fit enough to be out amongst his brethren again. They are delighted
to learn of his appointment by the M.W. Grand Master as Senior Grand Warden for the ensuing twelve
months, and heartily congratulate him. W. Bro. Waldie is well known throughout the district, and this
promotion is very popular.
It may not be generally known that there is a very active hospital visiting committee, headed by our veteran
brother, M.W. Bro. William Lishner, P.G.M., in Dunedin. The attention of all Lodges in the district is drawn
to this fact, and Masters and Secretaries are commended to let the Secretary (W. Bro. I. L. Turnbull, 18 City
Road, Roslyn, N.W.1) know of any brethren who may be in any hospital in Dunedin, so that the committee
may get into touch with them.
Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, is to be congratulated on the good work it is doing in the matter of a
critical and helpful examination in the form of papers it is presenting to the brethren on the manner in which
a great deal of our ceremonial and administrative work is being carried out. These papers are earnestly
commended to the W. Masters and brethren of all Lodges, as they should be conducive to a better
understanding on these matters. The W.M. of Research Lodge also desires it to be known that all members of
the Craft are eligible to become members for a small annual fee, and join in the discussions, ask questions.
and generally seek knowledge on Masonic affairs.
Dunstan Lodge. No. 103, Clyde, paid an official visit to Manuherikia Lodge, No. 109, recently, when they
had the pleasure of passing a brother. After the ceremony the visitors were entertained in the usual hearty
manner of Central Otago.
On Friday, 12th November, the Pastmasters of Manuherikia Lodge, No. 109, Alexandra, worked a Third
Degree. Reference was made to the excellence of the working and the very sincere manner in which the
charges were given. The following minute was confirmed: —"That the Lodge place on record its deep sense
of appreciation of the devoted services of W. Bro. W. B. Lloyd Williams since becoming a member in 1926.
For over 12 years he has carried out the duties of Secretary in a most conscientious and diligent manner, and
has earned the approbation, not only of Lodge members, but also of Grand Lodge. We sincerely trust that the
G.A. will long spare him to carry out the work he loves so much." W. Bro. Arthur E. Marslin, on behalf of
the Lodge, presented W. Bro. Williams with a Secretary's jewel. The recipient replied stating that he
appreciated the honour bestowed upon him and that he had received inspiration and much good fellowship
out of the work as Secretary.
The Past Masters of Maori Lodge, No. 105, gave a very impressive rendering of the Third Degree at its
November meeting. The W.M. was very earnest in his appreciation of the work of these brethren. Brethren
will regret to learn that the W.M. (W. Bro. N. A. Packer) has again to enter hospital for an operation, which
may keep him inactive for some time, but all wish him a speedy recovery.
Members of Service Lodge, No. 237, renewed their acquaintance with the brethren of Victoria Lodge, No.
147. Invercargill, during a recent week-end. Before the present conflict regular exchange visits took place
between these two Lodges, and it was felt that the time was again opportune to recommence these happy
events. The Invercargill brethren went out of their way to make Service comfortable, and their hospitality
was outstanding. The Third Degree was conferred on a brother loaned from St. John Lodge, No. 94, and
Service brethren carried out the work in their inimitable style. Sunday was spent in a visit to the local beach
to look for toheroas, which must have, by the way, been aware of our coming, as they were very conspicuous
by their absence. A visit was later made to Snake Gully, where the visitors were received by Dad. Dave,
Mum, Mabel and Chow. Who won the Snake Gully Cricket match no one knows. The thanks of the brethren
go out to the Invercargill brethren for their generosity. A feature of the visit was the adoption by Service
Lodge of a visiting American sailor brother. We were much impressed by his knowledge of Masonry, his
good cheer, and the obvious lessons he could teach Service brethren in Masonic deportment and tolerance.
The Installations of St. Clair Lodge, No. 246, and St. John Lodge, No. 84, Mosgiel, completed the city work
of the Prov. Grand Master (R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes) before the Annual Communication. He has only one
more (Otago Kilwinning, No. 143), which will be held following the Communication, to complete this year's
task of Prov. Grand Lodge.
A very enthusiastic meeting of the Masters' Association was presided over by the Prov.G.M. on Monday,
15th November. Many matters of much interest to the Lodges were discussed, as also were those relating to
the business of Grand Lodge in so far as the local current members could report, and in particular that
coming before the Communication in regard to the proposal to centralise Grand Lodge office in Wellington.
These meetings are becoming popular now that Lodges feel there is no "nigger in the wood pile" and that
they can discuss any matters relating to the craft with freedom and good-fellowship, it being realised that
what is aimed at by these meetings is the general good of the Craft in Otago district.
R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, D.G.M., paid a visit to Lodge Clinton, 183, on 14th October, and gave a very
interesting address to the Brethren on the aims and objects of Freemasonry, which was much appreciated by
all. A First Degree was worked and the W.M. and officers of Lodge Clinton, and Bro. Black, of Lodge
Owaka, were complimented by the D.G.M. on the excellent work.
The Brethren of Lodge Clinton were pleased to welcome home W. Bro. G. Foley on his return recently from
the Middle East. Latest word from the Middle East of our S.W., Bro. J. Mathieson, is that he is fit and well.
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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.
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The North Group wish everybody the compliments of the season.
Southern Cross, No. 6, has had a splendid year, and the Master, W. Bro. Johnson, has done a splendid job of
work. His successor will be installed on 2nd December, and all Lodges are invited to attend, as it promises to
be an extra special function.
Ashley is getting on well, and the Deputy Master, W. Bro. Palmer, has his team going well and has a fair
amount of work on hand.
Mairaki has a rush of work, and the Master, W. Bro. Colin McIntosh, was very happy to initiate his son
recently. There was a good attendance to witness the efficient work.
Tawera Lodge is getting on very happily and has a good deal of work on, and the Secretary, W. Bro. Inwood,
keeps up a steady flow of interesting entertainment and attraction for visitors.
Cheviot Lodge has some Degree work coming on, and W. Bro. Meyers and his brethren hope to attend
Kaikoura in the near future.
W. Bro. William Gibb, Master of Sumner Lodge, and late of Acacia, sends his kind regards to all Lodges in
the North Group, and invites them to attend Lodge Sumner on the third Monday of each month and they will
get a good welcome.
Amuri has a full year's work ahead, The W.M., W. Bro. James Boag, and his brethren are going flat out, and
invite neighbouring Lodges to come along and help to make each night impressive on the rush of new
candidates.
Kaikoura Lodge is getting ready for its Christmas celebrations. W. Bro. Charlton-Smith, W.M., and his
brethren invite all visiting brethren to go along and join this jolly little lodge in its varied and educational
meetings.
Acacia has some candidates ready for the new Master and his team to work on. The new Master is W. Bro.
Charles McKeegan, who was installed by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson and his officers, who invested the
brethren taking the various offices with perfect efficiency. In the refectory a splendid supper was provided
for a record attendance, and Bro. Arthur Burke and W. Bro. Ewart Wright were in charge of the musical
arrangements.
Mrs. Harry Inch is now on the road to recovery.
The Annual Communication of the Prov. Grand Lodge of Canterbury was a bright and businesslike function
and there was a record attendance. The R.W. Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson presided and had a
busy time transacting the business and getting the new officers installed. The reports of Prov. Grand
Secretary, the Acting Treasurer. and the Presidents of the Boards of G.P. and Benevolence were given very
clearly and were full of interesting information. A special feature of the function was an address on "The
New Order," given by R.W. Bro. Fred Allen. It was listened to with keen attention, and R.W. Bro.
Thompson thanked R.W. Bro. Allen for his kindness.
R.E. Comp. Geo. Blackmore, the retiring Superintendent of Canterbury Royal Arch, has had a splendid year
and wonderful receptions.
Amberley Lodge has some work, and W. Bro. Farquahar will be pleased to see as many visitors as possible.