RETURNED SERVICE BRETHREN AND RETURNED

SERVICE INITIATES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

N our last issue we discussed editorially the attitude I which, in our view, Lodges should adopt towards

brethren returning from service overseas. Our suggestion was that the help that such brethren could most

appropriately expect from the Craft would be that of friendly and sympathetic reabsorption into our ranks.

We also contended that it would be against the best interests of the Order, and out of harmony with Masonic

ideals, to permit the development within our ranks of a privileged group, whether of returned service

brethren, or on any other basis.

Such a movement would be quite out of keeping with the basic Masonic principle of equality, one of the

foundation-stones of the Order. If brethren cease to meet on the level, then eventually they will also cease to

part on the square. There is however one privilege that, in our opinion, can and should rightly be granted to

returned service brethren, and that is as far as possible to restore to them the years that the locust has eaten.

What we have in mind here is the case of brethren who were in office or in line for office in their Lodges

prior to going upon service, and who have thereby lost some years of seniority from the point of view of

masonic advancement. We consider that in such cases, and there will probably not be a great many of them,

priority in appointment and advancement could properly be conceded. This however is entirely a matter for

the brethren of each Lodge to determine as circumstances dictate and as they think fit,

The adoption of this general attitude does not mean that the Craft is ungrateful to those brethren who have

borne overseas the heat and burden of the war, or that we are not mindful of their efforts and sacrifices.

Every Lodge, we hope, will have its Roll of Honour of service members appropriately displayed where the

brethren assemble. We have however to remember that the interests of the Craft as a whole must come first,

and also to recollect our principle of the due mean, and maintain a sense of proportion. We know quite well

that many brethren served faithfully and arduously on the home front, and can pride ourselves on the fact that

the national service of members of the Order, both abroad and at home, is such that we can contemplate it

with satisfaction.

A somewhat different aspect of the problem presents itself in the case of returned servicemen who may

desire now to join our Order as initiates. Here, we suggest, though it is perhaps a hard saying, meritorious

war service cannot, of itself alone, be a decisive consideration on the question of admission. It is of crucial

importance that our hitherto accepted standards of selection and admission should not be lowered or relaxed.

Freemasonry is selective and not universal in its membership, its minimum standards in this territory are

high, and not every applicant does or can measure up to them.

If a returned serviceman with the requisite moral and other qualifications knocks at the door, and we trust

that many will, he will be all the more welcome because of his service to his country. If, however, such an

applicant is not in other respects suitable for initiation, then even a meritorious war record could not safely

be accepted as a substitute for the personal qualities regarded as indispensable for membership of the Craft.

We do not anticipate that such a dilemma will frequently arise, but the possibility, and the right way of

dealing with it, cannot be ignored.

Perhaps a special responsibility devolves upon Lodges as regards the initiation of service initiates. It has

recently been very well put by a prominent American Freemason, in terms which we quote verbatim:

"Upon us rests the heavy responsibility of making certain that these new members are properly assimilated.

They have come to us looking for bread. See ye to it that they are not handed a stone. Ours is the

responsibility of conferring the degrees in such a manner as to impress these postulants with their dignity,

their beauty, their philosophy, and their power to enrich the lives of men. Ours is the responsibility of seeing

to it that the new brother shall find in the Lodge a sympathetic, cordial atmosphere in which he is welcomed

I

with a degree of personal solicitude that satisfies the craving of his soul for friendly understanding

brotherhood."

Surely our duty to initiates returned from years of abnormal mental and physical strain could not be better

put than this. While the Craft will stand ready to offer a helping hand to service brethren and initiates in need

of material assistance, there is an increasing feeling that official rehabilitation arrangements will take care of

the economic side, and that what the Craft can and should do is to provide the sympathetic and understanding

environment in which the returned serviceman can bring himself back into civilian touch with ordinary life.

It is not our task to organise returned servicemen, they can do that for themselves. It falls upon us to bring

back into their lives, within the boundaries of Masonic work and fellowship, the ideals of harmony and

brotherhood that years of participation in strife may have pushed somewhat into the background of their

minds and social outlook.

————————

MASONIC BRETHREN IN WELLINGTON HOSPITALS.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

COMMITTEE REPORT, No. 20.

————

Public Hospital.—Victoria No. 1 Ward: Bro. E. Harris, Lodge Karori. Ward 2: Bro. Evans, Lodge Karori.

Ward 4: Bro. A. Lauchlan, Renown Lodge. Ward 10a: Bro. H. Cranston, Taia Lodge. Ward 27: Bro. S. Yule,

St. John's Lodge, Featherston; Bro. J. Logan, Lodge Eastbourne; Bro. Syd. Day, Renown Lodge. Ward 28:

Bro. L. Quinlan.

All the above patients, with the exception of Bros. Harris and Lauchlan, were making steady progress to-

wards recovery. Bro. Harris and Bro. Lauchlan are making slower progress, but we hope will soon get over

this rather stationary period and make a good recovery.

Bowen Street Hospital.—W. Bro. Gibson, of Lodge Wairau, has undergone an operation and is doing very

well. He is very bright and cheerful, especially for a man of his age-76. W. Bro. R. Bettany, of Lodge

Leinster, returned to hospital for another operation, which has been successfully performed, and he is making

good progress.

Bro. A. Walling, of Lodge Eastbourne, who was in Hobson Street Hospital, has now been discharged and is

recuperating at his home in Eastbourne. We wish him well and a good recovery.

Each of the above patients appears to look forward to those weekly visits and to enjoy contact with his

brethren. We are sure that they all fully appreciate the kindness and cheerful sympathy of those who make

this possible.

————————

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Oration delivered by M. W. Bro. Major-General F. A. Maguire, D.S.O., V.D., P.G.M.,

in The Prince Alfred Lodge, No. 94, on 22nd November, 1945.

Brethren,—Since our last gathering to celebrate this auspicious occasion, great things have happened in the

world. His Majesty the King has very graciously instructed that the 11th November is to be regarded as

Armistice Day for both Great World Wars. This, then, following his desires, will be our Armistice

celebrations, not as it has been, but for both, and we rejoice to know that amongst us tonight are very many

brethren who have returned from active service. Principally and particularly to those who have been

delivered out of the hands of the enemy, and to those who have come back from Malaya, I would give them a

most hearty and warm welcome into the United Grand Lodge.

May I ask you to cast your minds over the last few years. It has been my privilege to address you on many

occasions. The story has often been the same. Tonight it is not the same. We are on the threshold of the New

World. The men who have returned from this war have had ringing in their ears the same words of 1914-

1918—"War to end war." We do not believe it. We only half believed it then. War is a natural state of the

human race. There will always be wars, because man has not yet risen to the level of the angels. Man is still

on the surface of this earth. A man is a human being.

Over the last six years, since September, 1939, to November 1945, we have seen a very great many things

happen. First of all there was the call to war in September, 1939, and for months nothing happened, and

people in America talked of a "Phoney war." Then, about six or eight weeks later, one after another, the

nations of Europe toppled in the path of the Hun—Luxembourg, Belgium and Holland fell. Horrible

slaughter and unparalleled ferocity in the bombing of Rotterdam, the destruction of the heart of a nation, then

Norway, and finally France, and we wondered, wondered what was behind it all. Was this something new,

base and terrible? Had we found a foe unconquerable? Was the greatest army, the French Army, to be

obliterated in six weeks? Was the Navy to be driven to base ports in a month, the French Air Force to be

grounded in six weeks? We wondered and we puzzled. We stood alone. We knew that Britain and the

Dominions stood alone against the Hun and against that jackal that struck us in the back—Mussolini and his

kind. We have puzzled since then. Within the last two weeks I have been reading a book called "The Secret

History of the War," by Waverley Reed. In America they have had a more stringent censorship, but in

conjunction with many of his friends who were correspondents in the Great War, he has written this book.

When you read the chapters in that on the fall of France, and by this great military nation of the world, make

no mistake, the French Air Force had 6000 planes, the French Navy had modern battleships, why it fell is

now revealed to us. It is a dreadful and ghastly warning to us and all people of the world. France fell because

it was rotted and betrayed, and betrayed in the highest places, from the Marshal of France—Petain—and

Weigand, who, when the most generous gesture ever made in history, that they have complete union with the

British people, was offered, Weigand, whom we believed to be the greatest General, said, "What is the use?

The Boche will wring British men's necks in three weeks." It was a very definite kick. We are beginning to

learn something of the story behind it. We are beginning to learn that some of the nations were riddled with

dissatisfaction. Many of you have spent six of the best years of your life serving generously and efficiently

the British people and the rest of the United Nations. Many served in the second great war. Now you have

come back and said, "What has happened to us?" You have judged by the papers, you have seen that there

are just as many little wars going on as there were in 1919 and 1920. There were then some very grim wars

in the world, including the war in Turkey and Greece. They swept the Greeks, who have been our strong

allies, into the discard. You see these things happen, and, unless we read history and see what is going on,

they will happen again. Man has not only to look back, but will have to forecast what is to happen in the

future. France fell in six weeks because she was rotten with treachery and false ideals. I would suggest you

read that book and form your own conclusions—"The Secret History of the War," by Waverley Reed. But

not all countries were rotten. Had all countries been as rotten as France was then, had Great Britain been

unstable, Hitler would have realised the idea he started with in this war. His idea was that the German people

would rule the world for a thousand years. They were all ready to do it here. They had their agents here and

they have their agents here still. They have their agents amongst us. The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.

Had Great Britain and the British people not stood fast for that twelve months we today would have been a

German dependency. We would not have been meeting in this Lodge tonight. This Lodge would have been

treated under the sway of the Hun and Mussolini and made laughing-stocks of. Made Museums. There was

no Masonry in Europe in 1942 and 1943. He ruled 200 million people and most of them slaves. The Master

Race was a Master Race. All the best picking of Europe was taken to Germany. Everything was taken to

Germany. Every country paid an intolerable indemnity month by month—not millions, but thousands of

millions, went to Germany. Our soldiers tell us the Germans were very well fed and clothed, and were very

well served by their slave labour. What a grim, ghastly warning that is to us. We have learnt from the files of

papers that in the last few days the United States did not expect any attack from the Japanese on Pearl

Harbour in December, 1941. The American General Staff expected them to strike south to Indo China and

Malaya. It would have been a different story to us if the Japanese had struck on the 7th December in

Brisbane instead of Hawaii or at Sydney. At that time I happened to be Director-General of Army Medical

Services in Melbourne. I shudder to think what would have happened to us at that time. God has been good

to us and the British. We have not come out of this scatheless and with a light heart. We have paid in full

over the last six years. Different from the last time, our total casualties amounted to 90,000. In the first war

we lost 60,000. We have suffered in other ways. We have lost many of our kinsfolk through no fault of their

own. Our gallant soldiers, sailors and airmen did not fail in their job.

When this war broke out we looked to Britain for help and support. We, the Australian people, offered our

support in twelve hours. People sometimes forget that for years, and the first three years of the war till Japan

came in and spread over the Pacific, Britain absolutely ruled the seas, and Australian trade came and went

across the waters of the earth under the Royal Navy, and we hardly lost a ship. Britain moved miles of cargo,

she moved the A.I.F. without the loss of a soldier. There are people who say that Britain did not do much.

The British people made an unparalleled sacrifice, which you know. So much for the things you can count on

your fingers. There are much more important things than material things.

I heard one of your members in a brilliant speech the other night say that when he came back from

Singapore, three great wonders had occurred. The atom bomb, the rocket jet-propelled plane, and penicillin.

Let us imagine that we are with him and his colleagues, and that we were shut away for three years. We

suddenly come back to that amazing discovery—penicillin. Something that enables us to conquer diseases

within 48 hours that have never been conquered before. A drug that has enabled us to save lives which ten

years ago were surely lost. I have seen within the last week men and women who have been saved, who

could not possibly have lived without it. Take the jet-propelled plane. We learn that the Gloucester Meteor

has done 600 miles per hour. I thought it was very wonderful in 1939, when I went to England by plane, to

be in London within a week. Now the Gloucester Meteor does 600 miles an hour. The ordinary mail leaves

on Thursday morning and is in London on Saturday morning. When the jet-propelled plane is perfected, we

will leave here before breakfast and have supper in London the same night. We will travel at 600 miles an

hour and be in London the same night. If they go on, we will be there yesterday. We will look round and

meet ourselves coming back.

Now I wish to speak of the atom bomb. Scientists have discovered that we are living in an age the world has

never known before. Scientists are doing something which has never been done since Genesis. They are

creating new elements. The uranium elements have been split. Never in the history of mankind has man

made a new element. It is not the making of the element that matters—it is all that it implies. If we take

electric matter and put them together with a different formation we are doing something that the wise men

have been trying to do for all the years. You have read of the atom bomb experiment in Mexico. That does

not matter. It is not that. Consider the extraordinary source of energy that has been opened to us. Think what

an advance it was when the first man made a bow and arrow and was able to shoot the other man at 50 paces.

Then the man who discovered fire, and then in the 10th Century the cross-bow was discovered. The old

knights thought the end of the world had come. Then somebody invented gunpowder. Then came steam. The

steam engine revolutionised the world. It was this invention that made England the greatest trading country

in the world. It placed Britain ahead of all other nations and made her the financial centre of the world. Then

came electricity—look what it has done. Then the internal combustion and the petrol engines. These gave us

the jet-propelled planes, and now we have the atomic power.

I am going to talk about atomic power—the release of the atom. I have no doubt that within the next ten

years the atom will be harnessed. The coal and oil of the day will be things of the past for the big jobs of the

world. You may have seen that the Russians are at work on a great research harnessing another power—the

Cosmic Rays. Within the next 20 years we are going to have a revolution in the source of power available to

the world. There are three stages to all things. Let me direct your attention to Jacob's Ladder, which rests on

the Volume of the Sacred Law. On the steps of Jacob's Ladder there are three scruples—one rising above the

other—Faith, Hope and Charity. We know in Masonry there are three steps leading up. First there is the

Physical side—the side that does the doing. Then there is the Moral side—the side which decides between

right and wrong and good and evil; and finally, above them all, the Spiritual side—the power of life. The

spirit that comes from God Himself. We have gone on 40,000,000 years on the spiritual side. Have we risen

in the same way on our Moral side? I wonder if we have. The moral side means the power to define between

good and evil. God and Satan. Forces working for good and forces working for evil. I am sometimes inclined

to agree with the ancient philosophers that there are definite forces working for evil at times, and they are

opposed to the, decent and straighforward life. Some dreadful force attacks us almost from the rear. People

do things and say things from such extraordinary motives at times that we cannot help wondering that there

is the force of evil. That Satan himself is now reviving bad, and there on the face of the earth seeking to

defile. What happens if we have to meet that'? We have in this war a very potent weapon. The weapon of

Masonry. Among Masonry is a code of morals, of decency, and of man's behaviour. It is based on "Do unto

others as you would have them do unto you," but do it first. So we have in our hands now a force to combat

evil. That force we have in Masonry is no good unless we use it. It.is no use unless it is put in the hands of

the determined man and laid ready to be used. Each one is given a certain amount of strength, which peters

out on us. We are here today and gone tomorrow. The power of Masonry is a very potent force in combating

the evil forces in the world today. We only have a certain allotted time on ibis earth, and that time is not long

for some, to lend a hand and do something for the good of mankind. And finally, the highest level of all—the

Spiritual side, the Spiritual side in our philosophy of Masonry and in Various religions. It comes direct from

the mouth of God Himself. It is directed to that part of us which can never perish. Remember, in each of us

there is an immortal science which will survive beyond all time, and we trust and hope that when it comes to

our turn that our spirits may be worthy to join those in that Grand Lodge above.

That is why we are gathered here tonight to think of those who are symbolised by those three empty chairs

and three empty aprons; but they stand not only for that, but for all brethren of this Lodge who have passed

on. They are a silent hut potent reminder to us that we are all called upon at all times and under all

circumstances, and to practise at all times those things symbolised from the Volume of the Sacred Law even

to the Throne above, that is, faith in God, faith in our fellow-men, and faith in ourselves. Hope. Hope for the

future of the human race and hope for ourselves, and finally, Love, and "greater love has no man than that he

is glad to lay down his life for his friends." —'N.S.W. Freemason."

————————

R.W. BRO. THE HON. W. J. JORDAN, P.G.W.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The reappointment for a further term of three years has been officially announced, of R.W. Bro. the Hon. W.

J. Jordan, P.G.W., as High Commissioner for New Zealand in London, a position he has held since 1936. He

is at present enjoying a well-earned relaxation from his official duties in a three months stay in the

Dominion, from which he will be returning shortly.

A familiar figure for some years past at many Masonic gatherings here, where his natural unaffectation and

"bonhomie" have made him very popular with the rank and file, R.W. Bro. William Joseph Jordan, it may be

recalled, was not born in the Dominion, but migrated there forty years ago. His life has all the quality of

romance and has been one of varied experience in his early days here, for he was born at Ramsgate, Kent, in

1879, where his father was captain of a sailing craft. He was educated at the Parochial School, Old Street,

London, and was for a time in the postal service, followed by a short stage in the Metropolitan Police, before

sailing "down under," where he first engaged in farming.

Entering politics, he was the first Secretary of the New Zealand Labour Party, at Wellington, becoming its

President in 1932. He had served in France in the interval, during the last war, with the N.Z. Forces, during

which he was wounded.

First appointed Senior G. Warden in the Grand

Lodge of New Zealand, he was honoured with the

Past Rank of Junior Grand Warden in Grand

Lodge, on the occasion of the Installation as Grand

Master of the Earl of Harewood, K.G., in June,

1943. He has occupied the Chair of the Royal

Colonial Institute Lodge, 3556, and had the honour

of the plesence of the Duke of Kent, our late

Grand Master, on the occasion of the Installation,

in 1941. He has been, all along, prominently

connected with the New Zealand Lodge in London

as may well be surmised. —"The

Freemasons' Chronicle."

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

(Published by the authority of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.)

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

LOUISIANA-1945.

240 Lodges, 26,126 members, a gain of 3056.

Owing to the Office of Defence Transportation having forbidden any assemblage where 50 or more would

use transportation facilities, the Grand Master cancelled the 134th Annual Communication, which would

have been held on February 12th, 13th and 14th. He held a postal ballot for the election of Grand Officers,

and 'his proposed address and the Reports of Committees were issued with the five-yearly membership

roster, etc.

Gold certificates in recognition of fifty years' membership were presented to 18 brethren, and silver

certificates for 25 years' service to a number of others.

2604 were initiated, 499 affiliated, and 1156 reinstated, the losses being 378 died, 469 demitted, 36 dropped,

146 suspended N.P.D., 3 suspended U.M.C., and 2 expelled.

The average number of children in the Masonic Home was 22. The number in 1936 was 87, and it has fallen

steadily since then.

The Report of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence was practically confined to Mexican Freemasonry.

The Committee stated that there were 15,205 Lodges in U.S.A., with an average membership of 170.

The Grand Master was installed at a Lodge meeting on February 14th.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Otto E. Passman, Monroe.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. D. Peter Laguens, Jr., New Orleans.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. Dee A. Strickland, P.G.M., Monroe.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness, D.G.M., Wellington.

————

INDIANA-1945.

539 Lodges, 131,324 members, a gain of 10,511.

128th Annual Communication held at Indianapolis, 22nd May, M.W. Bro. Julian T. Lett, Grand Master,

presiding.

In order to keep transportation and hotel requirements below 50 as requested by a commission of the United

States Government, Grand Master Lett caused 20 district meetings to be held over the State, at which one

Worshipful Master was selected to represent his District. These 20 Worshipful Masters, together with the

Grand Lodge officers and Past Grand Masters, held the meeting of the Grand Lodge in Indianapolis on May

22nd, although nothing of a controversial nature was to be decided, since more than 500 representatives

entitled to seats could not be present. On some matters arguments were presented and questions asked, but

regular and usual action was taken.

A ballot was sent to the Worshipful Master of each Lodge and to others entitled to a vote in Grand Lodges,

and the election of Grand Officers was by mail. Although approximately 570 ballots were mailed out, more

than 200 were not returned.

The Committee on Masonic Education had been doing good work, and in order to improve its constitution

amendments recommended by the Grand Master were adopted.

11,502 were initiated, 1590 reinstated and 1121 affiliated, the losses being 2034 died, 1131 demitted, 268

suspended N.P.D., 3 suspended for other causes, and 6 expelled.

There were 129 men, 113 women, 35 boys, and 31 girls in the Masonic Home.

Recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge, El Potosi (a State of Mexico).

The Proceedings of New Zealand, 1943, were reviewed in the "Indiana Freemason" of April, 1945.

$2500 were voted to assist the brethren of the Philippine Islands.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Dwight L. Smith, Salem.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Wm. H. Swintz, P.G.M., Indianapolis.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. John W. Thornbury, Indianapolis.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Harry L. Harston, P.D.G.M., Napier.

————

WEST AUSTRALIA-1944-45.

171 Lodges, 12,189 members, a gain of 1394.

Quarterly Communication held 24th August at Kalgoorlie, and 23rd November, 23rd February and 24th May

at Perth, M.W. Bro. Dr. J. S. Battye, Grand Master, presiding at each.

After a lapse of nearly four years, 13 Lodges were added to the Register, of which six were from the Scottish

Constitution. Two Lodges amalgamated during the year.

There were 959 initiations and 837 affiliations (including the Scottish brethren).

23 brethren resigned, 32 were excluded and 135 died.

Grand Lodge expelled one brother who had been sentenced to eighteen months' imprisonment for having

attempted to gain a bribe.

The three largest Lodges had 140, 138 and 134 members respectively.

The brethren contributed £4906 (8/- per capita) to the Widows and Orphans and Aged Freemasons' Fund,

from which grants totalling £4040 were made. An additional £321 was paid from the Benevolent Fund.

The Grand Master conferred Past Rank upon 13 members of Grand Lodge, and the honorary rank of Past

Master upon 8 brethren.

A proposal by a Past Grand Officer to authorise the issue of certificates to Foundation members of Lodges

was defeated.

In the course of one of his addresses, the Grand Master said: "There is probably no other institution which is

composed of so complete a cross section of the community as Freemasonry. From the Throne to the simple

working man, members are to be found in our ranks.

"Whilst their interests are widely diverse, they all have one common bond, that they have identified

themselves with the Craft. What is the significance of that fact? What does Masonry stand for that is

common to every phase of society? and what do we as Masons stand for? We have all voluntarily and

seriously dedicated ourselves to the principles of the Craft. If these principles are worth holding and working

for, we should give them all more than a mere lip service. If they are not of value we should endeavour either

to make them so or turn our attention to something more worth while. Outsiders look upon Masonry as being

merely a system of ritual, and perhaps of organised charity. It is both, and it is much more. It is a way of

living, a philosophy on life. The ritual itself is an allegorical representation of the course of man's existence,

portraying the development of his character and attainments, the acquisition of wisdom and knowledge, and,

at the last, his hope of immortality. So in a very real sense Masonry offers the accumulated wisdom of

mankind, the result of centuries of experiment and trial, of failures and triumph, of suffering and happiness,

in man's attempt to learn how to live. As Masons we identify ourselves with an institution which, in one form

or another, since the beginning of civilised time, has stood for the finer things of life. As one Grand Master

said some years ago: 'Governments and nationl haVe risen and fallen, customs and standards of right and

wrong have formed, changed, been supplanted; but always, everywhere, man has groped on; always,

everywhere, there has been a better, nobler, and a more kindly way; and always, everywhere, Masonry and

its predecessors have been found to be allied not with the cruel and the selfish and the indifferent, but always

the weight of its influence, the aim of its teaching, the objective of its philosophy, have been on the side of

the higher and better and the more kindly way of living.' "

A paper, "Ramifications of Grand Lodge and the Operations," originally given by the Grand Secretary to St.

George's Lodge, No. 6, is printed as an appendix to the Proceedings.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. J. S. Battye, Litt.D., B.A., LL.B., Perth.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. A. E. Jensen, P.D.G.M., Perth.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. S. A. Taylor. P.S.G.W., Pres.Bd.G.P., Perth.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: V.W. Bro. Hon. E. R. ,Davis. P.G.T., Auckland.

————

NORTH DAKOTA-1945.

119 Lodges, 11.216 members, a gain of 508.

56th Annual Communication held at Fargo, 19th June, M.W. Bro. Hjalmer W. Swenson, G.M., presiding.

As in the case of other Grand Lodges of the United States at that period, attendance from outside Fargo was

kept within 50, although a protest was made at races and such gatherings disregarding the "Directive"

limiting travelling attendances to 50.

The losses by death included four Past Grand Masters, 568 brethren were raised, 162 affiliated, and 271

reinstated. 215 demitted, 223 died, 64 were suspended N.P.D., and 1 was expelled.

In the Report on the Grand Relief Fund the Committee said: "The requests for individual relief have been

very few. We have recently assisted one of our Lodges with a rather large hospital and surgical bill for an

aged brother.

"The number of persons to whom regularly small monthly allowances are made is three, and these allow-

ances total $50.00.

'As we think of it that is a remarkable record. It indicates that North Dakota is not only a State of fertile

prairies and wide pasture lands, but it is a State where reasonable prosperity prevails throughout. Of course,

in discussing matters of relief we must not overlook the humanitarian provisions for social security, old age

benefits by the State and Federal Governments."

North Dakota is indeed fortunate.

W. Bro. Alexander G. Burr, Grand Orator, delivered an address, "For the Next Years."

Recognition was extended to six Mexican State Grand Lodges.

The Reviews were confined to North America.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Rilie R. Morgan, Grafton.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Walter L. Stockwell, Fargo.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Clinton D. Lord, Park River.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, P.G.W., Wellington.

————————

PROPOSED NEW LODGE IN CHRISTCHURCH.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

A meeting was held recently in the Crown Masonic Hall, Sydenham, to discuss the advisability of forming a

new Lodge. The meeting was convened by W. Bro. W. J. Edwards and several brethren of Crown Lodge,

No. 138.

R.W. Bro. Alan F. Fisher, J.G.W., presided at the request of the conveners, and assisted the meeting

materially with information as to the various prelirninary matters requiring attention and regarding problems

likely to arise.

Bro. J. R. Shearman, of Crown Lodge, acted as Secretary.

After a full discussion it was unanimously resolved that it is desirable to form a new Lodge in Christchurch.

It was suggested that the fee for Charter Members be £5/5/-. The place of meeting and other matters were left

open, to be decided by the Charter members.

A committee of four was set up to compile a list of names of possible and probable Charter members. The

committee was given power to co-opt.

There are definitely 27 Charter Members at present, and good progress is being made with the arrangements

for the new Lodge.

The Interim Secretary is Bro. G. R. Shearman,

whose address is C/o. Linen Flax Section, Pyne,

Gould Guinness Building. Corner Cashel and

Manchester Streets, Christchurch (Business phone

38-757, private phone 46-030).

————————

MASONIC THANKSGIVING SERVICE IN NORWICH CATHEDRAL

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

STIRRING ADDRESS BY THE RT. REV. LORD BISHOP OF NORWICH, P.G.C.,

R.W. PROV. GRAND MASTER

————

Not for many years, with the one exception, perhaps, of the enthronement of the Bishop of Norwich, has

Norwich Cathedral seen such colourful scenes as those which on Thursday, 18th October, united

thanksgiving for victory by the Lodges of the Norfolk Province. Some 700 Freemasons in regalia walked in

procession through the Cathedral Close and provided a most picturesque prelude to the service as they halted

in two long lines in the central aisle of the Nave—the longest in the country—forming a memorable guard of

honour for the principal officers of the Province.

Impressive groups of colour met the eye when the brethren, representative of 26 Lodges, had taken their

seats. In the magnificent presbytery, the dark blue aprons and collars of 200 past Provincial Officers stood

out against the regalia of Masters and Past Masters of the Lodges of the Province, 400 of their brethren

filling the north and south transepts where the array of light blue was fringed by the distinctive crimson

regalia of the Provincial Stewards.

Such was the setting. in one of England's most beautiful cathedrals, when the Provincial Grand Master

preached to his Masonic brethren, making an eloquent appeal for Masonry to take its full share in the work

and the responsibilities of creating a better world for the future, a task which he believed this country had

been spared to undertake.

The sermon preached by the Provincial Grand Master was based on a text from the book of Nehemiah, "So

built we the wall . . ., for the people had a mind to work." He recalled that at the time of our great national

thanksgiving for the sudden and complete victory granted our arms, both in the west and the east, it was

thought that special services, Masonic or otherwise, were unsuitable. It did not seem right that sectional

services should take the place of a great national thanksgiving. It seemed better that every man should go to

his own parish church or his own familiar chapel, along with his family and neighbours, to join in that great

national act. Those days were over. "It seems right and good," he said, "that as Masons we should come

together in this great and lovely central church of Norfolk and thank God and take courage as we look

towards the future.

"First to give thanks. Am I not right in saying that there is no virtue more uncommon than gratitude? Favours

granted, even though felt a,nd acknowledged at the time, are soon forgotten. Or else we accept the good

things that come to us as though we had a right to them. I speak for myself, but I fancy I also speak for you,

when I say that it is not easy to be and to continue to be grateful.

"And yet the more we think about those six years of war, the more clear and wonderful, as it seems to me,

are the signs of God's blessings and guidance of this country in its great task. We think for instance of that

terrible moment when all our armed men were thrown back on the beaches of Dunkirk. It was literally that

week of calm water and misty skies that alone enabled the evacuation of those 350,000 men.

"Or we think of the days when, hourly, we were expecting invasion and knew our country was almost

defenceless. Or we think of the Battle of Britain, one of the most gallant and romantic battles in our history,

and we know how near our few brave men were to utter and helpless exhaustion, just at the moment when

the great attacks ceased. We think of the slow building up of our armed forces and their equipment and how

we were enabled to carry that through. Or we think of the wonderful leadership granted us in dark and

difficult days. Or we think of the devotion of all kinds of people, of all ages, of all classes, their work in

factory or field or civil defence the great unity that bound us all one to another in a common purpose.

"And all that was crowned, was it not, by the great, the complete and unexpected collapse of all our enemies?

And more lately still the list of mercies has been added to by one that is certainly not least—the return to

their homes and families of so many prisoners of war. I believe that as we realise those great mercies, as we

see the hand of God upon us through those dark and difficult years, so we shall realise and face bravely and

squarely the calls made upon us in the future.

"It is indeed clear that only one stage is over, one chapter closed. We have been delivered from great perils.

What have we been delivered for? That question is still unanswered. We know that peace will not come by

itself, that it must be won and worked for, but even beyond that must we not believe that God has a special

task for this nation to accomplish in world leadership; that, so to speak, we have been given back our lives

that we may dedicate them to a plan that is not ours but His. Never did the world lie in such suffering, such

hopelessness, such lack of social order, such true chaos as obtains over most of Europe today. This little

island, set in the Northern seas, so spared, so blessed, has still its manhood, still its leaders, its spirit and

character, which God is waiting to use for the healing of the nations.

"This being so, we, as Masons, at least understand something of the call and the way in which it must be

faced. We call ourselves free and accepted or speculative rather than operative Masons. We have no right to

the name at all unless we believe in work. On the contrary our whole Order is based on the most profound

belief in the dignity of man in the purpose of life. We believe in work by which each man shall give of the

fullness of his manhood and prove his place in God's great order of life. Now, as never before, we are called

upon to prove this belief in life. Is not the real justification for our Order's existence that it makes us better

citizens, more useful in our jobs, in our neighbourhood, that it calls from us and makes us give the best that

we have or possess? Moreover, that belief in the dignity of manhood exercised in work rests on our belief in

God. Behind all our Masonic activity, I need not remind you, is the conviction that the world is God's world,

that He has a purpose for life, and only through obedience to Him and His commands can the right ends be

obtained.

"How clearly that fits in with the present world situation. The real need of the world is for spiritual

rebuilding. It is the character of the people that has suffered so much, it is the loss of ideals that is so

crippling. If we, as Masons, can do something to restore that again here and elsewhere, restore the belief in

God, the sense of need for Him, the belief in the spiritual things that count for most, our Order will not have

lived in vain. We have learned that this great conception grew most naturally out of the spirit of brotherhood.

Each by himself has too limited a sphere and a still more limited capacity. The war has taught us, if we did

not know it before, that great things can come out of real unity and real comradeship, something much

greater than the individual contribution that each could have made. We knew that before. Our Masonic

brotherhood has taught us that. We are made on an equality one with the other, just as brothers, and we are

ready to share whatever we can give or others can give to us, and we know that, thereby, the body to which

we belong is a far greater thing than the individual activities of the individual brothers could ever have made

it. In the days that lie ahead that sense of brotherhood between men and nations, between classes in the

community, will be tested gravely, and unless it can stand the test, rising above the forces that would disrupt,

the future will be dark indeed. Is there nothing that we. through our brotherhood, can do to strengthen that

sense of comradeship, that willingness for unity in work and service?

"Thus it is that we turn to that familiar, simple, most attractive story in the book of Nehemiah. You

remember it—a great leader, fired with a purpose, not for his own glory but for what he believed mattered

tremendously, the rebuilding of the real life of his people, his summons to them to help him in the task, his

concentration upon one thing—the building of the wall. Apparently in itself not very important, but, in fact,

an indispensable symbol of the unity and safety of the national life. You remember how the people obeyed

his summons, catching his enthusiasm, and how, in spite of every obstacle, and there were many, the great

task was accomplished and a new chapter in national life begun. Shall the same thing, my brothers, become

true of us?"

—"The Freemasons' Chronicle."

————————

THE LIGHTED CANDLE

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

ITS TRADITIONAL DESCENT AND SYMBOLISM

————

How came candles to be used in our Craft Lodges, as distinct from the Chapter, and what is their symbolical

significance, is a subject generally too little known, and upon which reference to historical records provides

not only archaeological interest but instructive lessons.

The following extract of an answer given in the "Freemason's Magazine" of 1865 will first serve to throw

light upon the origin of the custom from the days of our Operative forebears:—

"The mediaeval Lodge was a frame structure erected close to the Church in process of building. It had three

main windows—in the East, the West and the South. There was none in the North, because the Lodge was

always built on the southern side of the Church and close to it for the advantage of light and warmth of a

southern aspect. These windows were termed the 'three Great Lights,' the words lickter light and the

windows being synonymous.

"These windows are represented on early Tracing Boards and are alluded to in old Rituals of 1725 and 1730.

In the latter they are termed 'fixed lights,' their uses being 'to light the men to, at, and from their work.' It is

expressly stated that these fixed lights 'are three windows supposed to be in every room where a Lodge is

held.'

"At the three windows were seated the Master and Wardens; the Fellowcrafts had their appropriate stations,

and the Apprentices were placed in the North as they required less light than the more skilful and advanced

Fellowcrafts. The Ritual of 1730 places the Junior Entered Apprentice in the North, his business being 'to

keep off all cowans and eavesdroppers,' because the narrow space between the Lodge and the church would

form a convenient hiding-place for cowans and eavesdroppers.

"Work was performed during daylight. When brethren met for social or business at night, candle-light

became necessary. The officers retained their usual positions, and before each was placed a candle. These

three candles were now termed 'the Lights.'

"In the Ritual of 1736, the three lesser lights are 'three large candles placed on high candlesticks; they

represent the sun, moon. and Master Mason.' When Lodges were held in Taverns, the three windows

disappeared. but the candles were retained.

"The Volume of the Sacred Law is not mentioned as a Great Light in the literature of the Craft prior to 1760.

Nor is there reference to the Lesser Lights before that date, although the 'Lights' or 'Fixed Lights' appear as

early as 1730. In that year appeared Pritchard's 'Masonry Dissected,' in which curious old document appears

the following catechism:

Q. Have you any lights in your Lodge?

A. Yes, three.

Q. What do they represent?

A. Sun. Moon and Master Mason.

(N.B, These Lights are three large candles placed on high candlesticks.)

Q. Why so?

A. Sun to rule the Day, Moon the Night, and Master Mason his Lodge.

Q. Have you any fired lights in your Lodge? A. Yes.

Q. How many?

A, Three.

(These fixed Lights are three windows supposed to be in every room where a Lodge is held.)

Q. How are they situated?

A. East, South and West.

Q. What are their uses?

A. To light men to, at and from their work.

Q. Why are there no lights in the North?

A. Because the Sun darts no rays thence."

Although. as the writer of this article shows, the use, as at present known in our Lodges, may be traced to

gradual evolution and the symbolism attaching to them today not to have been connected with their first

introduction, they have been used as emblems in Religion from the oldest times and to signify the Light

which is from Above, as in the exclamation of the Psalmist, "For Thou wilt light my candle; the Lord my

God will enlighten my darkness." Or in Job's lamentation, "Oh, that I was as in months past, as in the

days when God preserved me; when His candle shined upon my head, and when by His light I walked

through darkness." It has come to be adopted by the Church as the symbol of sacrifice, as is implied by the

offering of a candle by the devout in personal intercessions or special worship, in ritualistic observance.

As remarks a writer in a recent Masonic publication in U.S.A., there is deep symbolism to be found in the

naked flame that consumes the substance of the candle to give light to those who use it. To give light to one's

fellows, a man must consume himself: he must live and display and disburse energy.

Masonically, the Candle is not only a reminder of its old traditions of the far-off days when it was the only

readily available illuminant within doors, but also provides more than one great symbolical lesson. It is

impossible not to deplore in this connection that modern innovation and the continual trend towards the

strictly practical without the expenditure of the little extra trouble needed, should have led to the introduction

of the electric candle-lamp now found so prevalent in use, and more especially in most of the Temples of our

great Masonic Headquarters, in London, of the Mother Grand Lodge of the World. Its advantage, it is

claimed, is that it does not blow out as the candle is liable to do, but, therein, again is symbolism lost, for the

burning flame that so easily may be extinguished seems to plead with those who use it for care that its

warmth and light may not be snuffed out. It is so easy to extinguish human enthusiasm, plans and aspirations,

or good works, without care and kindness to keep them alight. Yet the light of the candle, weak though it

may be, and easily quenched, is powerful enough to start a great conflagration, just as the small light of some

human enthusiasm may kindle a nation into flame for a right and just cause. Thus, the initiate kneeling at the

altar, may have the candle of his soul ignited by the enthusiasm of those who give him the Masonic light, and

found inflammable by contact with the fire of new truths and experience. Has not Shakespeare reminded us:

"How far that little candle throws its beams! So shines a good deed in a naughty world."

One of the Lesser Lights is made to represent the Master, he who sits in the East and from whom is to come

Masonic light. To give light, a candle must burn, and to burn it must give out heat. Just as no flickering

candle can give light, so no luke-warm Master can be expected to kindle the soul of his brethren to high en-

deavours. One candle may light another, provided there is proper contact, for it cannot do so if kept at a

distance and without the flame touching the wick centred within it.

A brother may kindle the fire of another, but only by intimate contact of heart and mind, but not if content to

stand aloof or without concern, and in many other directions also are great and valuable symbolical lessons

to be found in the lighted candle, which are entirely absent and stultified in its modern electrical substitute,

which from this negative aspect may be considered "innovations within the body of Masonry," and in that

sense held detrimental to the fullest symbolism enshrined in its teachings.

The position of the Lesser Lights in our Craft Lodges has been subject to variations through the years, and

that adopted today, which has followed the change in the positions assigned to the Master and his two

Wardens, differs fundamentally from that of early days, which possessed a symbolical significance now lost.

With their position in the centre of the floor, they formed with the Master and his Wardens two interlacing

triangles as a five-pointed star in the centre of which was the letter "G." The position differs also from that

retained today by sister Grand Lodges as also in Bristol, where they are placed in the floor of the Lodge,

surrounding or "about" the altar or kneeling stool where the candidate is obligated, in the form of a right-

angled triangle, representing the gamma or Greek letter "G." while in some Foreign Jurisdictions as in

U.S.A., where there exists no uniformity of procedure in this feature, among the 49 Grand Lodges there,

some adopt the formation of an equilateral triangle as the early symbol of the Deity.

Not least, the modern introduction of the electric candle-lamp has brought the discontinuance of the old

custom, preserved in many ancient Lodges and still in force in a number, here, and very general abroad, of

the ceremonial lighting and extinguishing of the candle, beginning with the Master's Light, with the word

"Wisdom," and from a taper lit from it, to the Senior Warden in the W., and the Junior Warden in the S.

successively with the words: "Strength" and "Beauty." The custom may be found observed in the Province of

Sussex, among others. By some, it is considered that the Great Light of Masonry, the V.S.L., should not be

opened or closed in "darkness" and therefore the Lesser Lights, candles are lit before it is opened, and

extinguished only after it is closed. Although it may be possible to switch on and off, similarly, electric

candle-lamps, the symbolism of the candles being kindled from the same fire by the use of the taper carried

from one to the other is unavoidably lost. The candles are usually extinguished in the reversed order in which

they had been lit.

Although it is not the purpose of these notes to deal with the use of candles in the Chapter or to touch on

their distinct symbolism in its ceremonies, it may not be irrelevant to draw attention to the fact that on the

occasion of a Consecration Ceremony it is only

after the Invocation and just prior to the offering of

the Consecrating Elements, symbols of sacrifice

upon the Altar, that the candles are lighted, while at

other Convocations this is invariably done before

the opening, and they so remain until after the

Chapter is closed, in one case as in the other.

—"The Freemasons' Chronicle."

————————

Let every dawn of morning be to you as the

beginning of life and every setting sun be to you as

its close; then let every one of these short lives

leave its sure record of some kindly thing done for

others, some goodly strength or knowledge gained

for yourself.—John Ruskin.

———————————————————————————————————————————

Correspondence
———————————————————————————————————————————

We welcome correspondence on Masonic subjects, but are not responsible for the views expressed. It must be clearly understood that

all letters must be couched in courteous and proper language, otherwise they will be at once declined. The Editor distinctly reserves

the right not to publish, or only publish part of, any letter he may consider inimical to the best interests of the Craft.

———————————————————————————————————————————

THE CRAFT AND THE RETURNED SERVICEMAN.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(To the Editor.)

Dear Sir,—I read with interest your timely article on the above subject. In it, you state "Neither, we suggest,

is it desirable that new Lodges should be formed with membership confined to returned servicemen, or, for

that matter, for the exclusive membership of any other class or category of citizens."

I do not agree with this portion of the article. In Australia there are many Lodges functioning most

satisfactorily, the membership of which is confined to a particular class or category. I would mention in New

South Wales the following:—

Lodge Bankers—The members of this Lodge all being in the Banking profession.

Lodge Literature—Confined to Authors, the Press and Artists.

Lodge Torchbearer—For ex-scholars of the Sydney Church of England Grammar School.

Lodge Sydney High, as its name implies, for old boys of the Sydney High School.

In Victoria there are at least two Lodges membership of which is for old boys of Wesley College (Lodge Old

Wesley Collegians) and Lodge Melburnians for ex-scholars of The Melbourne Church of England Grammar

School respectively.

In all probability there are many other "class" Lodges, but I am unfortunately without information about

them. I do know, however, from personal experience of some of these Lodges, up to the time of my

departure from Australia, that they were most harmonious, the school Lodges particuarly so, as they afforded

opportunities for continuing boyhood friendships under the most favourable conditions.

Whilst not actively advocating the establishment of such Lodges in New Zealand, I can see no sound reason

why the formation of a Lodge confined to the old boys of any of the major schools or colleges should be at

variance with any of the basic principles of our Craft.

Yours truly, "P.M."

[We see no reason to depart from our opinion that the organisation of Lodges on a basis confining

membership to definite social or professional classes, apart from its narrowing effect on members, is in

conflict with the ideals of universality and equality that lie at the basis of Freemasonry, and should be

discountenanced by Masonic opinion.—Ed.]

————————

WILL IT BE "PEACE ON EARTH" AT LAST?

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Nearly two thousand years ago, according to the Great Light in Masonry, at the Advent of Jesus, the

principle of "peace on earth, goodwill towards men" was enunciated. During the ages the devout have looked

for that glorious period hopefully, but continually have had their dreams shattered by the wanton destruction

of war, that never-ending evidence of man's inhumanity to man.

Unauspiciously at the moment, perhaps, man has a glorious opportunity to realise this age-long ambition.

Communication and transportation have reduced the earth to a neighbourhood. Terrifying inventions of

destruction have awed the bravest, and struck fear in the hearts of men as to the possible outcome of another

world holocaust. Millions of people over the face of that world have felt keenly the ravages of war, and ere

long many of the most warlike nations will have been stripped of their material and incentive to aggression.

Staggering indeed is the responsibility of the victor at this moment, for in his hands lies the world's future in

some respects, His policies in reconstruction can build friendship or sow seeds of hate which shall never die.

His example of peace at home shall be quietly watched by all.

Shall there be peace on earth at last so long as men hate, envy and covet? Even in this melting-pot of nations

we call America, evil forces are spreading seeds of distrust between races, between industrial forces,

between creeds, and even between localities. Pleading post-war nerves now, acts of violence, increasing

domestic infelicity, and a general moral recession plague us.

Thoughtlessly we permit narrow-mindedness, hot tempers and loose talk to fertilise a growing hate. Selfish

minorities interested only in themselves forget the common weal. We forget, it seems, that if there will be

"Peace on Earth" there must be "Goodwill towards men," that these are twin dreams, inseparable.

We, as a nation, are spending many hours trying to determine who was neglectful of duty to such an extent

as to permit a surprise act of aggression. We as the victors are likewise making brave effort to establish war

guilt, but what are we as individuals and a nation doing to lay a foundation for a world of peace? Are we not

starting at the top rather than at the bottom?

Glibly we sing "Peace on earth, goodwill towards men," and we pledge to love our neighbour. The Master

asks of us over the years, "And who is thy neighbour?" Spend a day in any court in your city, and hear the

evidence of so-called neighbourliness. A fight over a division fence; a name-calling contest; an effort to

extort undue and undeserved damages from neighbours, not, in too many instances, as reasonable efforts to

submit to a disinterested arbiter a real difference of opinion, but a contest coloured with personalities and

ending in bitterness.

We spread liberty and equality, and then with a vain-glorious superiority we deny our neighbours the

opportunity to live even as we would live, because they are not of our nationality, race or creed.

Unfortunately, no nationality, race or creed as a group can plead "not guilty" to this charge.

Peace on earth is not something which will settle down upon us as the twilight, but must grow up through us

as blades of grass from mother earth until the weeds of disunity and lovelessness are choked out by the very

force and spread of the better plant.

As we meditate again upon the Christmas story and restudy the life and philosophy of Him whose birthday

we celebrate, let us as individuals measure our lives and attitudes by His, and then resolve that collectively

we will renew our efforts to make His plan of life our plan of life, His attitudes towards men ours; then in

truth can we have the right to hope for that golden era of "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men" at last.

—"Masonic Herald."

————————

OBITUARY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

V.W. BRO. REV. WM. RAINE, P.G.C.

The death of V.W. Bro. Rev. William Raine, P.G.C., has removed from our midst a very colourful figure. As

a clergyman he was possessed of a rich and pleasing vibrant voice and a highly-cultured mind. Consequently

his preaching and his conduct of the services of his Church were at all times both helpful and inspiring.

When in his parish at Eastbourne he was Master of the Eastbourne Lodge, and the brethren will always

remember the Masonic Parade services conducted by him year by year. From Eastbourne he moved to

Marton and soon established himself both in his Church and in the hearts of the young people in the several

colleges of the district. His Masonic duties increased, and he was appointed Grand Chaplain in the Grand

Lodge of N.Z. He was the founder of the Rangitikei Rose Croix Chapter at Marton, was M.W.S. for two

years, and Recorder for a similar period. Because of the brethren's high appreciation of his services he

received the Thirtieth Degree.

Failing health compelled V.W. Bro. Raine to retire. He spent his few remaining years at his seaside cottage

at Eastbourne and was living there at the time of his passing. To have known William Raine was a gracious

experience.

————————

CONSECRATION OF LOYAL CITIZENS LODGE, No. 6063

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Among the various titles, prompted by the association of the War, by which new Lodges have chosen to be

known, few can better express and commemorate in the days to come, the valiance and devotion to national

duty of the citizens of our great city, throughout the Battle of London and the dark and dangerous days which

followed, than have adopted the Loyal Citizens Lodge, No. 6063, appropriately added as a new unit of

London, and consecrated at Freemasons' Hall on Monday, 18th June, before a large and enthusiastic

gathering, which completely filled Temple Room. No. 10, despite its ample accommodation.

Nor, may it be added, a more aptly designed badge than has been chosen by the Founders, to recall these

significant days in our national history, in combination with Masonic symbolical emblems, there being

superimposed on a wreath of laurels, the reward of the victor, the Square and Compasses, with the former

making a conspicuous V as central feature of the design, and surmounting the Plumb Rule, as the emblem of

uprightness and integrity, while on a scroll appears the anglicised form of the Prince of Wales' famous

device: "I Serve."

Twenty Founders rallied to the formation of the new Lodge, mainly brought together by associations formed

in the Home Guard, and their petition has been sponsored by the Anthony Sayer Lodge, No. 4225, formed

after the close of the last war, and of which the late Felix Fighiera, P.G.D., of cherished memory, was the

first Master, it being in turn a daughter Lodge of Temperance in the East, No. 898, both well known as

exponents of the "Stability" ritual.

Twelve of the Founders have already attained the Chair, and commenting upon this aspect, prior to the

Ceremony which he conducted, the R.W. Asst. Grand Master, Brig.-General W. H. V. Darell, C.B., C.M.G..

D.S.O., found it a good augury of the Lodge's future and in maintaining in safe keeping the high ideals of

Masonry, whilst it would afford for the younger members the encouragement of ready progress.

Supporting the R.W. Asst. Grand Master in the enactment of the Ceremony, which he was performing for the

69th time, were: W. Bros. F. Coston Taylor. J.G.D., and H. L. Rouse, A.G.D.C.. as Wardens, with W. Bro.

Rev. Canon F. Norman Skene, M.A., P.A.G.Chap., as Chaplain; V.W. Bro. Sydney A. White, M.V.O.,

Grand Secretary; V.W. Bro. Lieut.-Col. Philip C. Bull, D.S.O., Grand Director of Ceremonies, ensuring the

smooth and efficient working of the procedure, with W. Bro. W. C. Herbert Fewster, P.A.G.Purst., as I.G.,

the inclusion of the latter being a compliment to the sponsoring Lodge, of which he is a member and

Preceptor for many years past of the Temperance in the East Lodge of Instruction. W. Bro. Sydney Scott,

Mus.Doc., F.R.C.O., L.R.A.M., P.G.Org., was in charge of the Ceremonial Music.

In his Oration at the outset of the Ceremony, the Chaplain recalling that the Founders had enrolled them-

selves in those organised bodies, hastily set up in the hour of danger for the protection of our great city of

London, said that they could claim the honour of having belonged to the historic defenders of England and

the British Empire. Five years ago the Empire had stood alone against the enemy to face her greatest ordeal,

while the whole world looked on with petrified dread. The Battle of Britain was on, but the sons of the

Empire never wavered, confident in the righteousness of their cause and the outcome of victory over the

aggressor.

Night after night and for many months, squadrons of hostile aircraft had flown in attack over towns and cities

as well as over London and citizens of all ranks and upbringing had come forward in their thousands to man

the defences in the Civil Defence Services and in the Home Guard. Amid all the terrors of that time the

Founders who were numbered among them had found fellowship and formed friendships which they now

wished to 'preserve in the Peace that, by the mercy of the Great Architect of the Universe, had now been

granted to us.

They had determined to cement them for all time by the founding of this new Lodge in which to perpetuate

the comradeship born under the stress and strain of battle, and their request for a Charter having been

granted, they would now be able to build up a living monument to the glory of those arduous days. They had

proved themselves loyal citizens, as the title of their new Lodge asserted, and they now sought the

opportunity of teaching others in the years to come to prove and conduct themselves as loyal citizens of the

world.

Today they were given a mighty and sacred trust in the Warrant which had been granted them by the M.W.

the Grand Master in the confidence that they would apply to Freemasonry that same loyal devotion they had

displayed in their heroic endeavours. Let them make sure that the edifice that they build should be of glory to

their work and to Masonry.

It behove them to create the traditions of their Lodge, and it should be for them a straight and plain task. Let

them establish a pure tradition of Brotherly Love and such as defined in that marvellous pen picture given by

St. "Paul in Corinthians XIII—the famous Chapter on Charity—and on which he need not dilate, beyond

enjoining them to be loyal to it always.

In their selection of candidates let them weigh up carefully the prospect of their being such as ultimately

would respond fully to the test of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, for it was the greatest of ideals, and they

should see that all who entered their Lodge lived up to it. With all the earnestness he could command he

would also exhort them to pursue the paths of Truth, fully aware as they must be at the present day, how the

world suffered from poverty of this great virtue. Let all, individually and collectively, exert the utmost

endeavour to build up again in the peace that had come to us, a world given to truth, integrity and kindness,

and for this it was all important that those who were to be the leaders of tomorrow should be wisely chosen

and grounded in Masonic principles. The well-being and happiness of the great human family depended

entirely upon the preparation made in the years which followed the war of the right type of mind and heart in

the men and women who would form the world of tomorrow and lead in the various walks of life, and

Masonry undoubtedly had a great responsibility and a privileged mission in providing such leaders to guide

the world back into the serene ways of Peace and Prosperity and restore true happiness to the people.

To the new Lodge on the threshold of this new era was given a great opportunity to serve to that end, and by

its traditions, under the guidance of the Most High to strive in this task of providing useful citizens and

leaders of men in the days to come. "And so we send you forth, wishing you good luck in the name of the

Lord!" he concluded.

Notification given by the Secretary in the course of the remaining proceedings of the receipt of four

applications for initiation and of a similar number as Joining Members, is an early indication of the assured

progress of the Lodge already in its first year.

The Grand Hall of the Connaught Rooms, where dinner was served following the close of the Lodge

proceedings, presented an animated scene with the unusually large number of guests present, among them

being a full representation of PMs. and members of the sponsoring Lodge, Anthony Sayer, No. 4225, and,

not least, many Grand Lodge Officers, including an interested visitor from New Zealand, W. Bro. E. V.

Bevan, P.A.G.D.C., of Lodge Aorangi, No. 2300, District of Wellington.

Their presence was referred to with appreciation by the Master, W. Bro. Donaldson, in proposing a toast to

their health, but it was not quantity, he contended, but quality which had made its impression upon the

gathering on the present occasion, as all would agree who had come under the spell of a Ceremony so

beautifully rendered as that in which they had taken part.

Following a brief but grateful acknowledgment of the tribute by W. Bro. J. Coston Taylor, J.G.D., the

Consecrating Senior Warden, a further reply was invited in the circumstances from the New Zealand visitor,

W. Bro. Bevan, P.A.G.D.C., who provided great interest by his remarks. He had been deeply touched by the

cordial reception he had received on reaching England at the end of his 13,000 mile journey. His was but a

small Lodge "down under," and he felt it a great honour on so important and auspicious an occasion to be

called upon to join in the response for the Grand Officers.

Touching upon the Ceremony, although it was not the first time he had witnessed it, he had to acknowledge

that he has never been more impressed by the beauty of its rendering and it would remain with him an

outstanding memory of his visit. He came from a Dominion which held England in such regard, respect and

affection that it had been taunted at times of being almost more English than the English themselves, but if

possible this feeling had been yet intensified and to such an extent by the tragic days through which the

citizens of London and parts of England had passed and had endured with such courage, that no words of his

could convey the admiration it had aroused in New Zealand. The Lodge had chosen a fine title and one

which would be a constant reminder to all of the worth of true citizenship, best expressed as loyalty, sacrifice

and good fellowship, all of which he felt sure, from what he had already seen, would be found exemplified in

the members of the new Lodge.

Was it not after all an alternative meaning of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, for which Freemasonry

stood, he asked in conclusion, amidst concurring applause.

—"The Freemasons' Chronicle."

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THE ART OF RHETORIC

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Given second place in the enumeration of the seven Liberal Sciences in the "Old Charges," and in their

quaint language described as the one "that teaches a man to speake faire and in subtill termes," Rhetoric,

or the art of public speaking, is one possessing much enhanced value in a human organisation such as

Freemasonry with the constant opportunities it offers, and indeed, compels one to address publicly his

fellow-men. From it can arise the greatest good for the cause, but, alas, not infrequently sterile results when

abused for mere vainglorious ends and personal fulsome praise, at "refreshment after labour."

It has been wittily remarked that there are but two kinds of after-dinner speakers: "the man who has

something to say, and the man who has to say something," and how true is the observation many of us must

realise, even with introspective feelings of having personally sinned on occasions by classification among the

latter. "Nowhere, outside the pulpit and the law courts," it has been said. "has a speaker such frequent and

varied opportunities of acquiring experience in public speaking, and nowhere else does he find such long-

suffering and withal sympathetic audiences upon whom to practise."

So wrote, some 30 years ago, in that excellent volume of essays, "By-ways of Freemasonry," the late Rev. J.

T. Lawrence, M.A., P.A.G.Chap., and adding, not without ironic humour: ''The Toast list is all but a

landmark of the Order, and toasts not only require brethren who shall propose them, but imply that there

shall be others to reply, and in both cases there are yet others who have to listen. . . . It is the audience,

groaning under the weight of plethoric platitudes, inconsequential periods, and vain repetitions, their

impatience controlled by the reflection that they are the victims of a system and qualified by pity for the

brother on his legs, who apparently wants to stop, but does not know how, that excites our sympathy and

demands consideration.

"There is no question about the power of the tongue. One good speech in the course of the evening will make

the brethren forget a dozen bad ones, and send them all home happy. The orator has a wonderful power. It is

the statesman's eloquence rather than his administrative ability that procures him the confidence of the

nation. It is the clergyman's preaching rather than his excellence as a pastor that procures him preferment.

The attraction must lie in the appeal of the human voice, for a good singer will elicit far more applause than

the instrumentalist. Humanity in the mass is inspired by the sound of the living voice as by nothing else.

"And if the spoken word be powerful for good, it has to be remembered that its responsibility is on a similar

scale. Whatever mischief is inflicted by the tongue is all but irreparable. Most injuries can be repaired, but

once a word is spoken it is for ever out of the power of the speaker. He may retract it, but his retraction does

not reach every person to whom the original statement has penetrated. It passes from one to another, and on

the way it loses the inflection or the accent which qualified it, and perhaps acquires a new inflection and a

new accent which give it quite a different meaning."

Dealing at length in further observations, upon the many pitfalls of public speaking, and stressing the need

for preparation as a duty to one's hearers, the writer points out that possibly most important of all, it will help

the speaker to know when and how to stop, for as he rightly remarks, "many brethren find it absolutely

impossible to do so, not because they are anxious to go on, but a graceful ending eludes them, and so they

proceed, anxiously looking out for a convenient stopping place, enduring a good deal more agony the while

than even their hearers."

There are no rules by which a good speaker is made; like the poet he must be born, and the terse remark is

added, that "more than one such is not desirable in a Lodge," while the majority of those whose occasional

duty it is to make speeches have had that particular form of greatness thrust upon them and do not aspire to

be considered orators.

The Masonic speaker certainly must be said to enjoy advantages denied to the uninstructed and popular

world, in that he is much assisted by convention, there being certain things which it is generally considered

have to be said and with an almost traditional way of expressing them, but thereby, it must be admitted also,

is imparted much artificiality to a large number of post-prandial utterances, like the now so trite and worn-

out acknowledgment of a toast, "thanking the proposer for the manner he has submitted it and the brethren

for the way they have received it." It may be due to some extent to the habit gained in having to learn and

memorise set phrases of the Ritual, that it has crept also into our after-dinner speeches as is far too generally

the case. Yet how much more would not our gatherings at "refreshment after labour" increase in interest and

good fellowship for a more natural mode of expression conveying deeper sincerity than can ever be hoped to

be achieved by sentences, however uttered, all bearing the stamp of the self-same mould, without the least

semblance of originality, or implied sincerity.

Let a man's mode of expression be whatever it may be, within his own limitations, but let him speak from his

heart and voice his own thoughts and not words put by others into his mouth. Especially in Masonic circles,

he is among friends and kindly critics aware themselves of their own shortcomings in similar ordeals, if such

can be termed the privilege of speaking to one's fellow-men and of freely expressing one's own thoughts.

"God has given man speech to express his thoughts," but too often, as once remarked a cynic, it is used to

disguise them? From a free communion of thoughts with our brethren must arise the greatest good, but not if

uttered behind the mask of convention and the worn-out cliches which can reflect no sincerity of heart or

carry conviction of our beliefs and hopes. —"The Freemasons' Chronicle."

————————

IMPROPRIETY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

It may be considered that a comment on the fitness or unfitness of behaviour in Freemasonry is irrelevant or

redundant; but it must have been recognised by those who were responsible for the inclusion in the Charges

in the Book of Constitutions, that some instruction was required, as Charge No. VI is divided under six

headings, each dealing with a different phase of the conduct which Freemasons should observe under the

conditions in which they may find themselves on occasions. These ancient charges were formulated by Dr.

James Anderson (a Brother who has been described as "The Father of Masonic History," although not much

is known about his Masonic career), who was appointed by the Grand Lodge of England in 1721 "to digest

the old Gothic Constitutions in a new and better method." Published in 1723, there can be read into the

Charges today the spirit, if not the strict letter, of the meaning of those Masonic ideals and virtues which

should be cultivated by organised Freemasonry throughout the world.

Behaviour is described as the manner of conducting or deporting oneself, either well or ill, but impropriety

distinctly denotes something unbecoming or unsuitable; although the act of commission may be reasonable if

time and place do not detract from its fitness. For instance, a brother may make a statement in Lodge which,

if made anywhere else would cause him to be denounced forthwith as a fool, but it would tend to disturb the

harmony of the proceedings to tell him so at the time. The rendition of ritual never evokes applause, but, at

the festive board, a good address may be received with overwhelming indications of satisfaction.

In deference to the admonition contained in sub-clause 4 of Charge No. VI that Masons "shall be cautious in

their words and carriage, that the most penetrating stranger shall not be able to discover or find out what is

not proper to be intimated," the improprieties which may occur in the lodgeroom cannot be discussed in this

comment "for reasons not to be mentioned here," and much is accordingly left to the imagination. But in

order that some practices to which objections have been raised in this jurisdiction may be mentioned,

reference is directed to a paragraph in the Board's report for the Communication held on October 20. 1943,

relating to smoking in regalia. As long ago as March, 1911, the then Grand Inspector of Lodges, the late

V.W. Bro. J. R. Robertson, afterwards Assistant Grand Secretary, included in his report to the Board a

paragraph relating to the same question. He wrote:—"I have occasionally seen brethren smoking in the

lodgeroom before the business of the evening begins, and it is a constant occurrence to see brethren smoking

in the ante-room whilst clothed in the insignia of our Order. I feel sure that if this matter is only mentioned to

the brethren they will see the impropriety of it." Bro. Robertson later said: "There is nothing new in the idea,

as I know my predecessor held similar views on the subject." Other instances of impropriety could be

quoted, but let this one suffice.

It would seem that occasional reminding is necessary to keep the undesirableness of impropriety before the

brethren, and to preserve the ethical understandings of this Grand Lodge. Regrettably, evidence could be

produced to show that even in our lodgerooms the solemn fact that they have been dedicated is sometimes

overlooked.

It may be contended that on certain matters no arbitrary rules have been laid down, and that certain practices

transgress no Masonic law. The injunction, however, contained in one of the Charges does not refer to

particular procedure, but comprehensively exhorts brethren "to avoid ill manners." Hence, Freemasons

should so conduct themselves that their actions, and even their inclinations and thoughts, may be

encompassed within the bounds of propriety. —"S.A. Freemason."

————————

TARANAKI NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Lodge Whangamomona, holding their Installation meeting on 2nd February, started off the Masonic year in

Taranaki. The meeting was good—fine attendance, smooth working, and a happy and fraternal spirit, both in

Lodge and refectory. The S.W., Bro. L. J. Loveridge, was installed as W.M. by the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. W.

T. Simmons. The Addresses were given by R.W. Bro. J. C. Barclay to the Master, R.W. Bro. J. McAllister,

P.D.G.M., to the Wardens, and W. Bro. A. Fergusson, G.Std., to the brethren. The prospects of the Lodge are

bright, and as soon as the building restrictions are eased a lodgeroom will be built. The plans are prepared

and the finance arranged, so the brethren are hopefully looking forward to having a home of their own at no

distant date. W. Bro. Sherriff, I.P.M., has done well during his year. He is an enthusiastic F.M. and is certain

to prove a stayer.

Lodge Hawera raised a brother at the February meeting and have other candidates coming on.

Lodge Taranaki is anticipating a great gathering on 9th March. W. Bro. M. R. Jones will occupy the chair,

and has appointed his officers from various Lodges in the North Island. The business will be the raising of a

Maori brother.

The following item is from the current notice of Lodge Taranaki: "On Monday, 11th February, the W.M. and

all his officers and a large number of brethren, totalling 26, attended Lodge Manaia, No. 286, to witness the

passing of two brethren, candidates of Lodge Taranaki, No. 240. The ceremonial work, conducted by Manaia

officers, was most impressive and a very pleasurable evening was spent by all."

St. John's Lodge, No. 95, holds the Installation meeting just too late for this report. It will be dealt with in

next issue.

Lodge Stratford is endeavouring by a series of emergency meetings to get level with outstanding work before

the Installation in March. At a recent meeting a brother was passed on behalf of Lodge Ohakea Services, No.

309.

A candidate was initiated at the February meeting of Lodge Kaponga, No. 208.

At the February meeting of Lodge Patea a Third Degree was worked, a ballot taken, balance-sheet and

accounts considered, officers elected, and a demonstration of "proving" given. Surely a full evening's work.

Ex. and P. Bro. W. A. Dean was duly elected M.W.S. of Pukekura Rose Croix Chapter at the February

meeting.

Lodge Te Henui raised a brother and balloted for two candidates on February 12th.

A splendid citizen and greatly respected and esteemed Freemason, in the person of Bro. J. L. Mander passed

away early this year. He was a Charter member of Lodge Te Henui and also a member of Pukekura Rose

Croix Chapter. He was identified with many

public and semi-public associations which have

for their aim the betterment of society and the

advancement of educational and philanthropic

ideals. The funeral was largely attended and the

fraternity of F.M. appeared to be in the majority.

W. Bro. Gentles, of Lodge Te Henui, read the

Masonic service at the graveside in a very

impressive manner.

————————

RUAPEHU NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Feilding Lodge is so busy that it was necessary to hold an emergency meeting during February. At this and

the regular meeting the Third Degree was worked. W. Bro. W. G. Hooper, W.M., and his officers are to be

congratulated on the manner in which the work is proceeding.

To initiate two candidates was the business of Lodge Rongotea last month. On the same evening W. Bro. W.

A. Churchill, W.M., officially welcomed the Master, officers and brethren of Lodge Otangaki and Ohakea

Services Lodge.

W. Bro. G. M. Rennie, W.M. of the Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge, presided over the meeting in February.

Two brethren were passed to the Second Degree. There was a particularly large attendance of members, and

these, with several visitors, nicely filled the Temple. The usual Kilwinning hospitality was enjoyed in the

refectory. An emergency meeting was also held during January; three candidates were initiated. The

members of this Lodge, together with a large number of brethren of other Lodges, mourn the passing of Bro.

Neil Cruden, a loveable character and one who was always very willing to dispense his musical ability for

the enjoyment of his brethren. The Lodge has lost a sincere and devoted Freemason.

Installation time is here again. The first one after the holiday recess was held at Kimbolton on 2nd February.

Bro. F. Whitehead was installed by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M., assisted by W. Bro. Morris,

P.A.G.D.C., and several other Grand Lodge officers.

The next Installation was held at Marton by Lodge Ruapehu on the 16th February, Bro. J. I. Morgan being

installed by the Prov.G.M., who also delivered the Address to the W.M. W. Bro. A. B. Allan, P.G.D.,

addressed the Wardens, W. Bro. C. Hausmann, P.G.D., the brethren, and W. Bro. Len. Wood, A.G.D.C.,

acted as D.C.

Lodge Rangitikei, Bulls, raised a candidate during February. The W.M., W. Bro. L. R. Vile, presided over a

good attendance of brethren. Additional interest seems to be taken by the members of this Lodge, and it is

very pleasing to note the larger attendances.

Headed by their W.M., W. Bro. Jordan, the members of Lodge Awatea chartered a bus, and 35 of them

proceeded to Wellington on an official visit to Lodge Island Bay. This happened three weeks ago, and the

Awatea brethren are still talking about it—what a welcome they received by the Island Bay brethren, how

they arrived home in the "wee, sma' hours o' the morn," and how much they are looking forward to the visit

being returned before this year is out. There is a remarkable spirit existing between these two Lodges, a spirit

which the writer feels sure was originally sponsored by W. Bros. W. Mayes, P.G.S., and P. W. Morris,

P.A.G.D.C.; however, if these two brethren were not the originators, then they certainly are responsible for

keeping the torch burning over the years.

The W.M. of the Ohakea Services Lodge, W. Bro. H. B. Swales, invited the P.Ms. to take over all the offices

and work a Third Degree during February. W. Bro. Len. Wood, A.G.D.C., occupied the chair and was

assisted by the Past Masters of the Lodge. As a result it was found the old "Diggers" have lost none of their

cunning, thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and are already looking forward to the same experience next

year.

————————

OTAGO NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

As the result of New Year holidays extending well into the month, very few Lodges hold a meeting in

January. Those who held meetings were engaged in Degree work, and others held Emergency Meetings,

which is the case with many Lodges to enable them to cope with the influx of candidates, and from all

accounts we in Otago, in common with the rest of the Dominion, are looking forward to a very busy year.

The brethren of North Otago heralded the start of the New Year duties by attending in full force at Lodge

Oamaru Kul., No. 82, which was holding its annual Burns Night. Altogether, it was a most successful

evening. In the Temple the work was in the F.C. Degree, when one candidate was duly passed, the ceremony

being well conducted by the W.M., W. Bro. Galbraith, and officers of the Lodge. Naturally the proceedings

in the refectory were of a decidedly Scottish character. The haggis was piped in in traditional style, and then

addressed by W. Bro. Archie Todd, of Ashburton, who excelled himself, and his effort was very much

enjoyed. The toast to the Immortal Bard was in the hands of W. Bro. Wm. Miller, P.G.D.C., and handled in

his usual happy and characteristic style. It was a night to remember and voted the best yet by all.

————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

All Masonic units in the district have resumed their activities after a welcome spell over the holiday season.

The first Installation meeting in this Territory was held at Queenstown on 3rd February, when the Master and

officers of Lake Lodge of Ophir, No. 85, were installed and invested in the presence of a good attendance of

members and visitors. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., ably assisted

by W. Bro. F. J. Logan, Asst.G.D.C., and a number of Grand Officers.

This was followed on February 25th, at Arrowtown, by the Installation of the W.M. and investiture of

officers of Lodge Arrow Kil., No. 86, by the Prov.G.M. A number of Grand Officers were in attendance and

assisted in the ceremony.

During the week-end the many visitors at this wonderful pleasure resort enjoyed the beauties of nature in

various ways, and were loud in their praise of these two Lake meetings.

Several brethren of the Southland District, including M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, G.M., and R. W. Bro. J. D.

Campbell, Prov.G.M., extended their trip to the Otago Territory, and attended two Installation meetings in

company with R.W. Bro. Archbold, Prov.G.M. of Otago.

Ven. Preceptor A. C. Ford and officers of the Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars, instructed a

prominent member of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, into the mysteries of this beautiful order.

An emergency meeting of Lodge St. John, No. 94, was held on 16th February, when the ceremony of

"raising" was conducted by the W.M. and officers of The Hiram Lodge (Dunedin).

Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, initiated three candidates at its February meeting. The March meeting has been

altered to the 16th of the month in order to receive a fraternal visit from Lodge Morning Star, of Dunedin for

the purpose of working the Third Degree.

The W.M., officers, and a strong following of members of Lodge Southland, No. 273, recently paid an

official visit to Lodge St. John. No. 84 (Mosgiel), and worked the Third Degree.

These visits between Lodges of neighbouring districts are most acceptable and contribute much to the

development of the Craft.

The February meeting of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, was one of outstanding importance. R.W. Bro. J. D.

Campbell, Prov. G.M., was welcomed, followed by M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, G.M., and a good following of

Grand officers. The ceremony of "raising" was conducted in an impressive manner by W. Bro. Macaulay and

his officers. Prior to closing the Lodge, M.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, who had recently been honoured by the rank

of P.Pro.G.M. (H.C.), was presented with his diploma by M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith. Grand Master.

V.W. Bro. R. H. Waddell, G.Chap., who recently had an accident while cycling home after a meeting, has

made an excellent recovery.

March will be a heavy month as regards Installation meetings, which will be held as follows:—Orepuki, No.

137, on 2nd; Wairaki, No. 145, on 9th; Southland, No. 273, on 13th; and Tuatapere, No. 210, on 20th. It is

hoped that a suitable date can be found for the annual Installation of M.W.S. and officers of Murihiku Rose

Croix Chapter.

V.Ex. Comp. F. J. Logan and officers of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, exalted two candidates

to the degree of Holy Royal Arch at their February convocation.

Delegates from the three Royal Arch Chapters of the Southland Territory attended the recent Annual

Convocation of Grand Chapter at Christchurch.

————————

CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The Installation meeting of the Lodge of Unanimity. No. 3. was held on Tuesday, 5th .February, when Bro

Arundel P. H. Godart, S.W., was installed as Master. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones,

Prov. G.M., assisted by officers of Provincial Grand Lodge.

Lodge Doric, No. 275, held its Twenty-first Anniversary Meeting on 14th February. R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones,

Prov. G.M., attended officially, accompanied by officers of Provincial Grand Lodge. There was a good

attendance of present and past Grand Lodge officers and a large number of Doric and visiting brethren. The

meeting was devoted to the anniversary proceedings and there was no Degree work. A lecture was given by

Bro. Rev. C. S. Knight, a Roll Call was held, and a History of the Lodge read. Subsequently a pleasant

evening was spent in the refectory. One of the outstanding events was the presentation of a Secretary's Jewel

to W. Bro. Charles S. Johnston, P.G.D., who has been Secretary of the Lodge since its inception. The

presentation was made by R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, at the request of W. Bro. M. C.

Craig, Deputy Master, who occupied the chair during the evening.

Lodge Riccarton held its Installation meeting on 19th February. Bro. R. J. Roberts, J.W., was installed as

Master by R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, Prov.G.M., assisted by officers of Provincial Grand Lodge. There was a

large attendance of Grand Lodge officers, incudling R.W. Bro. Alan F. Fisher. J.G.W., V.W. Bro. Ross

Hepburn, G.Lec., V.W. Bro. Pryce C. Jones, P.G.D.C., and W. Bro. Walcot J. Wood, P.G.B.B., all of whom

are members of Lodge Riccarton. There was also a large attendance of brethren, both members and visitors.

Bro. T. A. Coulter was invested as S.W. and Bro. James Logie as J.W.

Prince of Wales R.A. Chapter, No. 31, held its regular meeting on 18th February. The First Principal, V.E.

Comp. R. L. Reid, conferred the Royal Arch Degree on three candidates.

St. Augustine Cryptic Council held two meetings in February, namely, an Emergency Meeting on Friday,

15th, at the Crown Masonic Hall, when a number of local Companions received the Degrees, and the

Regular Meeting, on Thursday, 21st February, also at the Crown Masonic Hall. At the latter meeting a large

number of visiting Companions attending Grand Chapter took the opportunity of receiving the Cryptic

Degrees. The Royal Master Degree was worked by T.I. Comp. J. C. Lindsay, T.I.M., the Select Master

Degree by T.I. Comp. W. Sherrard, P.T.I.M., and the Super Excellent Degree by T.I. Comp. J. N. Carson,

P.T.I.M., P.G.Supt. M.E. Comp. J. A. Stables, G.Z., who paid an official visit, conferred the Chair Degree of

Thrice Illustrious Master on Comps. eligible to receive the same.

St. Augustine Royal Arch Chapter Installation meeting was held on 25th February, when E. Comp. N. S.

Kirby was installed as Z., Ex. Comp. W. D. Crombie as H., and Ex. Comp. V. Bedwell as J. The ceremony

was conducted by R.E. Comp. F. N. Kerr, Grand Superintendent, assisted by Grand Chapter Officers.

In connection with the Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter, held on 20th February, the visiting ladies

were entertained at morning tea an Wednesday and at a picture party in the evening. The visiting Comps. and

ladies were taken for a drive on Thursday afternoon, 21st February, over the Port Hills and the Summit Road,

followed by afternoon tea at the tearooms, Victoria Park, Cashmere Hills. Special thanks are due to R.E.

Comp. F. N. Kerr Grand Superintendent of Canterbury, R.E. Comp. G. A. Blackmore, convener of the

Entertainment Committee, V.E. Comp. C. H. Burson, convener of the Accommodation Committee, and V.E.

Comp. Allan Hunter, Hon. Secretary, and Mrs. F. N. Kerr and the Ladies' Committee, who assisted with the

arrangements for entertaining the visitors.

On Sunday, 17th February, the Companions of Christchurch and adjacent Royal Arch Chapters attended the

morning service at the Durham Street Methodist Church, when the preacher was the Minister, Comp. Rev.

Raymond Dudley. The arrangements were made by R.E. Comp. F. N. Kerr, Grand Supt., and there was a

large attendance of local Companions and their wives. The first lesson was read by M.E. Comp. J. A.

Stables, First Grand Principal, and the second lesson by R.E. Comp. F. N. Kerr, Grand Superintendent.

Comp. Rev. Dudley, in the course of his sermon, stated as his considered opinion that while there was a

Bible there will be Masons, and while there are Masons there will be a Bible.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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Southern Cross, No. 6, is getting along nicely, and W. Bro. Bryden and his brethren will be pleased to see

visitors at any time. Bus leaves at 10.45 p.m. for Christchurch, which is very convenient.

Ashley, No. 28, staged a special "last night" for their popular Master, W. Bro. Walter Nairn, who has done a

good job of work and kept Ashley right in the front line.

Tawera Lodge has had a busy year, and W. Bro. Wood-ham, their popular Master, was given great praise at

his "last night" meeting.

All Lodges are invited to attend the Installations of Tawera and Ashley, which take place in March. Special

arrangements are in hand to cope with the crowd.

Mairaki, No. 131, will hold a special night in March to celebrate the wonderful year of W. Bro. Arthur

Chambers as Master. It will be a pleasure to see all sister Lodges present. The Installation will be in April

and will be as brilliant as usual.

Kaikoura Installation was a de luxe meeting. R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, assisted by his officers of the Prov.

Grand Lodge of Canterbury, installed Bro. H. Fairweather as Master and invested his officers in an excellent

manner. The Kaikoura ladies, as usual, under the direction of W. Bro. Jensen, made a good job of the

banquet, and everyone present appreciated their generosity and effort. Kaikoura is now getting ready for the

Big Jubilee celebrations.

Cheviot, No. 124, is very busy, and W. Bro. Crossan and his officers have been on a tour, including

Christchurch, where they worked a double Third in Doric Lodge—a treat for those present to watch. Cheviot

brethren are experts at working the Scotch Third. The Cheviot Installation will take place in April.

Acacia Lodge has some candidates, and W. Bro. Wesley Harris and his officers are doing a lot of Degree

work and invite sister Lodges to pop along for a visit and enjoy a night in the country in this hospitable little

Lodge.

Amuri Lodge has had some splendid nights lately. The Master, W. Bro. Len. Jordan, and his brethren

recently passed a brother on behalf of Crown Lodge. The Master and several brethren from Crown Lodge

attended and were given a rousing reception by Amuri.

The Hanmer Masonic Association is still flourishing. The secretary, W. Bro. James Manson, is better again

after his recent illness. All soldier brethren who go to Hanmer should look him up and obtain information

which will benefit them.

The North Group extend their sincere sympathy to V.W. Bro. C. J. Jones in his recent bereavement.

Amberley Lodge is having a busy year. W. Bro. Burke will be holding a special celebration meeting in April

and hopes to see all his friends then.

Ashley Chapter had a very good night at its last meeting. V.E. Comp. Fairweather and his Companions

appreciate the support from sister Chapters. It was a great pleasure to be honoured with a visit from R.E.

Comp. John Du Feu at a recent meeting.

The Group extends its sympathy to Bro. Joe Hodgen, of Acacia Lodge, in his recent loss.

The Big Group Meeting of the Waimakariri-Hurunui Lodges will be held in Ashley Lodge, Rangiora, this

year. It will eclipse all previous efforts, and arrangements to "get the Fires of Progress alight" are well in

hand.

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NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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All Lodges and Chapters in the Territory have had their first meeting for 1946, with the exception of Lodge

Nelson, which met February 20th, and Victory Chapter, on February 28th. The first Installation meeting for

the year will be that of Lodge Havelock, in March—the date by arrangement with the Prov.G.M. has been

delayed one week to 23rd March so as to allow of a maximum attendance at the March meeting of Victory

Lodge, No. 40, which is to be held on Saturday, 16th March, instead of the previous Thursday, so as to

coincide with the date of the second Annual Meeting of the "1942" Masters' Association, and for the further

purpose of the presentation of Past G.L. Regalia to R.W. Bro. James Baird, P.Prov.G.M., to which

presentation all Lodges in the Territory are contributing. It is anticipated, therefore, that with this

arrangement of dates a complete representation of all Lodges with a large attendance will be present for the

special occasion.

There is one unfortunate feature, in that after these arrangements had been completed advice was received

that 16th March was the date set down for the quarterly communications of the Westland-Nelson District

Grand Lodge, E.C., to be held in Greymouth, on the evening of which day the Installation and Enthronement

of the D.D.G.M., W. Bro. F. B. Lawn as District Grand Master, and the Investiture of District Grand Lodge

Officers is to take place.

It is expected that quite a number of members, particularly of Southern Star and Golden Bay Lodges, will

proceed to Greymouth for this important event. Their absence from Nelson will be regretted.

At the meeting of Motueka Lodge, held on 23rd January, there was a good attendance and a candidate was

initiated. General pleasure was expressed on account of the presence of W. Bro. Budden, P.G.B.B., Chaplain

of the Lodge, who has not been able to attend his Lodge for a long period owing to ill-health. He received at

the hands of W. Bro. Parker, P.M., the P.G.L. Regalia presented to him by the members of his Lodge, for

which he expressed warm appreciation.

Lodge Havelock held its second meeting for 1946 on 16th February, when two E.A.s were "passed."

Three E.A.'s were "passed" at the meeting of Southern Star Lodge, No. 735, E.C., held on 22nd January.

There was a good attendance and three members recently returned from overseas received a warm welcome

home.

Waimea Lodge, No. 266, received an official visit from V.W. Bro. Craighead, Asst.Prov.G.M., on the

occasion of their first meeting for 1946, held 6th February, when two F.C.s were "raised."

V.W. Bro. Craighead also paid an official visit to Victory Lodge, No. 40, at its regular meeting, held

February 14th, when two F.C.s were "raised" in the presence of a large attendance.

At its meeting on 24th January, Lodge Waitohi received an official visit from R.W. Bro. F. Mogridge, when

three E.A.s were "passed," including a member of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 32.

Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, No. 106, met February 12th, when the "working" was the Third Degree.

A very happy time was spent for this, the first meeting of the New Year, and a special welcome was

extended to several members who have returned from overseas.

Marlborough R.A. Chapter "advanced" two members at the Convocation held 5th February, when R. Ex.

Comp. W. J. Girling, Depute First Grand Principal, paid an official visit, which was greatly appreciated.

Trafalgar R.A. Chapter, No. 157, S.C., held its first Convocation for the year on 12th February, when two

candidates were Acknowledged and Exalted. There was a good attendance, including representatives from

Victory Chapter.

Forest Lodge, No. 116, Wakefield, celebrated a very special occasion at the regular meeting held on 13th

February, when a son and grandson of two members of the Lodge were initiated. This was certainly a unique

occasion, for which, by arrangement with the W.M., W. Bro. D. S. Max occupied the Chair and W. Bro. A.

E. Max obligated the candidates. There was an attendance of over 70, including a large representation of

G.L. Officers, including R.W. Bro. F. Mogridge, Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. James Baird, P.Prov.G.M.; V.W.

Bro. Craighead, Asst.Prov. G.M.; and V.W. Bro. H. O. Findlay, G.D.C. The whole proceedings were of a

most cordial nature and much favourable reference was made to the excellent service rendered to

Freemasonry by the members of the Max family, particularly in connection with Forest Lodge.

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WELLINGTON NOTES.

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On Saturday, 12th January, the brethren of Lodge Zetland, No. 312, paid an official visit to Lion Lodge, No.

114, at Ormondville, where a most enjoyable evening was spent, a record attendance of members and visitors

being registered. After the business session and reception of visitors, W. Bro. V. P. Williams, W.M. of Lion

Lodge, extended a most warm and cordial welcome to the visitors from Wellington, and handed the gavel to

W. Bro. P. S. Isbister, who, assisted by the office-bearers of Lodge Zetland, took over the control of the

Lodge in order to carry out the ceremony of raising Bro. G. G. Tait, of Lodge Zetland, who is a son of W.

Bro. Ross Tait, I.P.M. of Lodge Lion and a foundation member of Lodge Zetland. The ceremonial work was

carried out in a masterly and impressive manner, the candidate being obligated by his father. At the

conclusion of the ceremony W. Bro. Isbister made a presentation, on behalf of Lodge Zetland, of a "Register

of Brotherly Love and Fraternal Good-fellowship," which on every visit of the respective Lodges to one

another will have inscribed upon it the names of all the members of the visiting Lodge and a short

description of the ceremonial carried out. These visits will be made annually, thus the "Register" will in time

to come prove of great value as a perpetual record of these fraternal visitations. The refectory proceedings

were of a particularly bright and harmonious nature, the brethren of Lion Lodge putting forth their best

efforts to entertain to the full their Wellington visitors and those from adjacent Lodges in the Hawkes Bay

District.