POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

YNONYMS are words which have the same meaning

as each other. It is said that in any language there are

no exact synonyms: usage makes shades of meaning.

Power, influence and authority are words which have

much the same meaning. The derivations of the words

power and authority are not particularly interesting;

influence, however, "flowing in," derives from the old

astrologers, and means the power flowing in to the

individual from the stars. A comparatively modern

instance of its use, though in a metaphor, is to be found in

Milton's "L' Allegro":

"Towred Cities please us then.

And the busie humm of men,

Where throngs of Knights and Barons bold,

In meeds of Peace high triumphs hold,

With store of Ladies, whose bright eies

Rain influence, and judge the prise

Of Wit, or Arms, while both contend

To win her Grace, whom all commend."

Power today is a comprehensive and general word: it

means the actual ability to do things. In authority there is

the idea of a commission from some higher source, a

commission which specifies the limits within which the

authority is to be exercised. Influence is a much more

permeating and much less official thing than either power

or authority.

The Grand Master has power, probably, to do far more

than he has authority to do: that is, until he succeeded in

laying the whole Craft by the ears an unworthy Grand

Master might issue one unconstitutional dispensation after

another, without being called to order for doing so. He

has, so to speak, power to exceed his authority.

It is said that the test of whether any of the prerogative

power of the British Sovereign still exists is whether or

not he can exercise it successfully: such a test was made

when Sir Philip Game was Lieut.-Governor of New South

Wales.

There is no right without a corresponding duty. The Lief,

that an individual has power or is vested with authority

makes it incumbent on him to exert his power or to

exercise his authority rightly and not wrongly, to the best

of his skill and ability.

Any individual may exert influence; we all have some

influence, and in general it is more far-reaching than we

realise. When we see how our sons and daughters copy

our words and actions, when we hear what we have

expressed as opinion quoted as fact, we are sometimes

brought up with a round turn, to reflect ruefully that we

should remember we have been taught to be cautious,

Those who have power and authority are, of course, in a

most favourable position for the exercise of influence: the

less formal part of what we do and say in our official

capacity, though often the more far-reaching.

That is why a high officer of the utmost correctness, one

who never makes a mistake, who builds well and guards

what has been built by his predecessors, may sometimes

be no more than a cold and unbeloved shell; while on the

other hand a less efficient but more sympathetic person,

with stronger ideals, may by his influence upon those

about him find that the work which has been done in his

term far exceeds what he has done or even contemplated

for himself. His influence has stimulated, fired and

encouraged those about him. Influence can thus be a far

more potent thing than either power or authority.

It appears, therefore, that the carrying out of duties

according to the book of the words is far from being the

end of the duty of the incumbent of an office; unless he be

a simple registrar of facts or scrutineer of votes recorded.

Any office which involves human relations carries with it

the duty to leaven the lump of society. The influence of

the Craft is the influence of the whole of its members,

plus the intangible something which its corporate entity

gives it in addition. As we are members one of another, so

we exert influence on one another in an interplay which

should strengthen and support each one of us until our

combined influence upon society is a strong and valuable

one.

Society today needs strong influences for good: "Getting

and spending we lay waste our lives." We have come to

think a great deal more of the duty of the community

towards ourselves than of the duty we owe to the

community. We need a prophet to flagellate and chastise

us.

Humility is an essential characteristic of which we are too

often in danger of losing sight. Perhaps our deserts are

great, perhaps our deserts are small: in either event it is

unworthy to think of nothing but our deserts: and too

many of us do that at the expense of thinking how we can

help.

If Freemasons will so exert their influence upon society as

to help men to be grateful, contented and humble-minded,

if they will make it their normal rule to help other people

and to practise self-denial, so that the leaven of their

conduct goes through the whole of society as an example

of right living, then the Craft will be making a

S

tremendous contribution to setting aright times which are

sadly out of joint.

————————

WHY MEN FAIL!

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

CHECK OVER LIST.

————

There is a cause for everything! Nothing ever "just

happens." If a man is promoted to a better job, there is a

cause. If a man loses his job, there is also a cause. There

are many causes that lead to failure. Here is a list of the

most common:-

1. Finding fault with another, but never seeing your
own,

2. Doing as little as possible and trying to get as much
as possible for it,

3. Spending too much time showing up another's weak
points and too little correcting your own.

4. Slandering those we envy or do not like.

5. Procrastination—putting off until tomorrow
something that we should have done the day before

yesterday.

6. Deceit—talking in a friendly manner to another's
face and stabbing him in the back as soon as he turns

around.

7. False belief that we are smart enough to reap a
harvest of pay before sowing a crop of honest

service.

8. Disloyalty to those who have trusted us.

9. Egotism—the belief that we know it all and no one
can teach us anything.

Look this list over and check yourself up by it. If none of

these causes for failure apply to you, then you are to be

congratulated, because you are a success.

—Exchange.

————————

VISIT OF LODGE ZETLAND, No. 312, TO LION

LODGE, No. 114, AT ORMONDVILLE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

During Labour Day weekend 23 brethren of Lodge

Zetland visited Ormondville to pay their annual visit to

Lion Lodge, and a very happy and profitable time was

spent there. The Wellington brethren took two E.As. with

them, who were passed to the F.C. Degree by W. Bro. D.

A. Moar, W.M. of Lodge Zetland, assisted by his officers

and brethren, among whom were included W. Bro. J. S.

Tait, W.M., and W. Bro. Ross Tait, D.M. of Lion Lodge,

No. 114, who are charter members of Lodge Zetland.

Prior to the ceremonial work the minutes of the previous

visit of Lion Lodge to Wellington were read and

confirmed. These were read from the "Register of

Fraternal Visits and Brotherly Love," which at each visit

paid by the respective Lodges is handed over by the W.M.

of the resident Lodge to the W.M. of the visiting Lodge

for safe custody and to have the minutes of the official

visit recorded therein. This in time to come will prove a

very interesting record of the visits paid to each other by

these two Lodges.

The ceremony of "Passing" was carried out in a very

impressive manner, and all present were loud in their

praise of the beauty and efficient working of the degree.

The refectory proceedings were of an exceptionally happy

and enjoyable nature, the members of Lion Lodge and

their lady friends having put forth their best efforts to

entertain their Wellington visitors in a right royal fashion,

which was very much appreciated by the visitors and also

by visitors from several adjacent Lodges in the Hawkes

Bay district.

During the weekend the Wellington contingent were

hospitably entertained at the home of W. Bro. J. S. Tait,

W.M. of Lion Lodge, where 26 sat down to lunch,

afterwards spending a very happy hour in fraternal

intercourse.

Later in the afternoon the Zetland members returned to

Wellington, having spent a most enjoyable weekend with

their brethren in Hawkes Bay.

————————

FREEMASONS SHOULD BE CHURCHMEN.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Every good Freemason must, of sheer necessity, be a

churchman in the religious denomination of his choice.

The Church was established by Almighty God, and the

Fraternity by His sons. In it we teach dependence on Him

and love for each other. We need the Church and the

Church needs us. We need its inspiring exposition of the

Book which we keep open on our altars. We need its

worship as a spiritual help towards peaceful and stable

living. If we profess to serve our God, our service is

incomplete without individual participation in His

Church. That is our first duty as Freemasons. The Church

needs Freemasonry, not as an institution, but through the

influence and daily presence of its devotees. Tomorrow,

with its problems, will soon be today; and one of the first

problems the Church must face is that of unity. A single-

minded worship of God—without barriers of race or

creed. Freemasonry, though divided in form, is united in

substance in its attitude towards our Heavenly Father, and

Freemasons, more than all other men, can make the

greatest contribution towards church unity. It is

impossible to conceive of the lasting effect on God's work

here on earth if all Freemasons became active churchmen.

—Exchange.

————————

THE MAKING OF MASONS.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The making of Masons today should be the making of

men, manly men. God-fearing men, honourable men, men

who will endeavour to practise the tenets and precepts of

Masonry as taught within our sacred retreats. The true

Mason today is he who, with faith in God, steps forth to

fight the battle of the weak, to help the oppressed, to

shield the innocent; one whose greatest pleasure consists

in the promulgation of the universal brotherhood of

man.—"Masonic Chronicler."

————————

THE SECOND DEGREE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

By R.W. Bro. Ralph F. Newman, P.G.W.

————

Every Degree in Freemasonry is important—the Second

no less than the First and Third. The Fellow Craft Degree

may lack the arresting, the intriguing inspiration of the

First and the dramatic appeal of the Third, but to the

practical mind it conveys such an instructive and useful

lesson that it can never be over emphasised.

Pre-eminent in this degree is the working out of the

pattern of our lives. In a general way this is done by

means of the Working Tools. The S . . . enables us to

bring the rude matter into due form—to carve out of the

stone, rough and unhewn, the article of perfection which

we would all hope our lives to be. If any action of our

lives cannot be tested and tried by the S . . , then it should

be cast aside as unfit for use in the building of the

structure.

The candidate must be tried to test whether he has learned

the lessons of the First Degree, and that he has been

industrious, conscientious and honest with his dealings

with others; and so properly prepared to be passed to the

Second Degree.

A LESSON OF RULE AND ORDER.

In this degree we are especially taught to study the

science of geometry, which is said to be the basis of our

art. This today may be taken symbolically. Geometry is a

science in which care, accuracy and exactness are

preeminent. Without these attributes the solution of the

problem is unattainable: the answer to the riddle is not

forthcoming. And so it is with our Lives. They are

governed by rule and order. I have often heard it asked

why so many lawyers are keenly interested in

Freemasonry. This may be partly answered by saying that

ingrained in every keen lawyer is a love of rule and

order—a lesson clearly etched in the Second Degree.

SEARCH, DIG AND DELVE.

So sharply is it emphasised that the Almighty is here

referred to as the G.G.O.T.U. Note the results of this

application to rule and order in the advance from the first

to the Second Degree. No longer are we to be satisfied

with the more menial tasks of life. We are to search, dig,

delve, and in every conceivable way investigate the work

of the G.G.O.T.U. and the intricacies of our own

particular sphere of activity in that universe. By this

means our lives should be a blessing to ourselves and our

fellow men, and thus fulfil the great ends for which the

G.G. has placed us on earth.

KNOCK, SEEK AND OPEN.

The lesson of the Second Degree is that of stimulation to

further action; it inculcates an enthusiasm; it revivifies the

desire to find out. Again we are to knock, seek and open.

REWARD CERTAIN FOR THE PATIENT

CRAFTSMAN.

And so we should ascend—ever going upward to reach

the goal of our deserts. If that path has been the path of

Knowledge, the rewards are rich and satisfying. As the

staircase winds the end is not seen from the beginning;

but the rewards are none the less certain for that craftsman

who patiently plods the narrower though highly

interesting and inconceivably more satisfying ascent than

the broad way which so very easily leads to destruction.

That ascent is crowned by the knowledge of God—those

Hebrew characters depicted in our Lodges. In closing

down in this Degree we are reminded of the sacred

symbol, and that it alludes to the G.G.O.T.U. and that so

long as we act in conformity of the principles of the Craft,

we shall not fail to discharge our duty towards Him with

fervency and zeal.—''S.A. Freemason,".

————————

IDEALS.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

William Riley Franklin, 32°, Colorado Springs, Colo.

————

Ideals are the architects of character, the cornerstones of

achievement. They are the higher motives that enable us

to accomplish great things in business, in science, in

affairs of state, and in every branch of human endeavour.

Ideals offer us rational reasons for meeting and solving

the problems of life and living, since trouble and obstacles

encountered as we press on toward our goal are

overcome, as means to an end. Without these visionary

incentives to trial and struggle, we are rarely rewarded

and life's efforts become colourless and commonplace.

Ideals are the most important things of life, because they

enable us to vision and feel security in an expectancy of

success. They enable us to enjoy an inner freedom—a

richer philosophy. It may be truthfully said that a man

attains no more than the aims set by his ideals, for they

are the measure of his success. As long as he views only

the barrenness of the mesa, he will never see the grandeur

of the hills. Just as soon as that same man plans his course

by a perception of some finished work, which inspires

him to do some greater things, he will suddenly be lifted

in mind and spirit from his lowly position and be

gloriously carried to heights of loftier achievements.

"Who has not cursed the day of small talk?"

Low aims and shallow thoughts are the real tragedies of

life. To rise above the environment of birth should be the

natural ambition of everyone, yet, unless the spiritual and

cultural items are born and nurtured in the light of

Christianity, one is not apt to do so.

If you would accomplish anything in life worth while, and

have a measure of happiness, then choose an ideal, be

loyal to it, fight for it with an abiding faith, and, in time,

the realisation is apt to come. Though it may never come,

it matters not. Perhaps it is best that you never fully attain

all your ideals; however, you will be a better person

because of those ideals, because of the struggle you have

made, and, perhaps, somewhere along the way you will

have found mansions more beautiful, more satisfying,

than anything you might have earlier dreamed of or hoped

for, even in your wildest imaginings.

Yes, ideals are the architects of character, the blueprints

of your very soul.—"The New Age."

————————

OUR MASONIC DUTY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The very first duty that an Entered Apprentice

acknowledges is to improve himself in Masonry. How

many truly and sincerely attempt to discharge that duty?

What would be the success of a lawyer who never again

looked into a law book after his admission to the bar; a

minister of the Gospel who never read the Bible, after his

ordination; a doctor who never took up a medical work

after securing his sheepskin, or that of any other

profession who does not take up post-graduate studies?

And yet you find Freemasons all about you pretending to

be Masonic lights who never read. Some of them perhaps

can glibly repeat certain portions of the ritual, but could

not give an intelligent interpretation of the same to save

their life. Masonic reading is an essential part of the

education of a Freemason and it is never too late to begin,

but always better to begin early, It is the duty of the

Master to impress this fact upon newly-made Masons, but

if they themselves are in the class of non-reading Masons,

how can we expect from them wholesome advice?

—"S.A. Freemason."

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN

GRAND LODGES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(Published by the Authority of the Grand Lodge of New

Zealand.)

OKLAHOMA-1945.

389 Lodges, 52,305 members, a gain of 4727.

37th (72nd) Annual Communication held 12th February,

at Guthrie, M.W. Bro. Gerald L. Brown, Grand Master.

presiding.

The meeting was one of those affected by the prohibition

in the United States, during the latter stages of the War,

involving travelling by 50 or more people, and only

formal business was transacted.

3283 brethren were raised, 1032 affiliated, 2958

reinstated, 727 demitted, 782 died. 692 were suspended

N.P.D., 2 suspended U.M.C., 2 withdrew, and 341 were

lost through defunct Lodges.

There were 39 men and 50 women in the Masonic Home

for the Aged, and 17 boys and 13 girls in the Children's

Home.

The Grand Master reported the presentation of 13 Fifty-

year Buttons.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Gerald L. Brown, Enid.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Claude A. Sturgeon, P.G.M.,

Guthrie.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Arthur E. Miller,

Woodward.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Archibald J.

Graham, P.Prov.G.M., Palmerston North.

MINNESOTA-1946.

293 Lodges, 50,795 members, a gain of 2141.

93rd Annual Communication held at St. Paul, 16th and

17th January, M.W. Bro. William F. Holman, Grand

Master, ) presiding.

2648 brethren were raised, 612 affiliated, 507 restored,

577 withdrew, 142 were "stricken," 3 suspended, 1

expelled, and 903 died.

Four Lodges were reduced in number to two by

consolidation.

109 Fifty-year Buttons were presented during the year.

In its Report the Committee on Masonic Research and

Instruction said: "Much time has been spent in the pre-

paration, printing and distribution of four booklets to be

presented to each candidate as he advances-8500 copies

of 'A Preparatory Message,' 7500 copies of 'A Message

Concerning the First Degree,' 8000 copies of 'A Message

Concerning the Second Degree,' 7500 copies of 'A

Message Concerning the Third Degree—which provide

good and wholesome instruction as a Lodge system of

Masonic education. If your Lodge is not presenting these

booklets, it is only necessary to make a request to the

Grand Secretary's office and they will be sent without

charge."

There were 70 men and 107 women in the Masonic

Home, 68 of whom were between 70 and 80 years of age,

85 between 80 and 90 and 4 over 90.

Bro. Frank Warner, "Representative of the Grand Lodge

at Rochester" since 1922, in the course of his report said:

"Since the beginning of the office in 1922, we have

contacted 81.834 Masons or their relatives who have

visited Rochester for Mayo Clinic assistance. During the

same time 208,871 calls have been made upon people in

hospitals, hotels, and convalescent homes, and there have

been 17,417 personal office calls by these people. During

the depression years we have been called upon many

times to find employment for Masons and relatives of

Masons, and of recent years, during housing and hotel

shortage, we have been called upon to find rooms for

6311 people."

W. Bro. Walter C. Coffey, Grand Orator, gave an address

entitled "The Preservation of American Convictions,"

from which we quote:—"We can read, see, hear what we

choose. . We can discuss, disagree, and argue on any

subject as much as we like. We can affiliate with any

political party we choose. We can organise a school based

on truthfulness and free from propaganda. We can join a

church with a free pulpit. We can investigate corruption,

oppose it and defeat it. We can associate freely with

others in efforts to bring about desired social changes.

Our telephones are untapped; our mail uncensored. We

can travel within the 48 States without restriction. We

have the security of common law."

M.W. Bro. E. A. Montgomery, P.G.M., devoted over a

page of his Report on Foreign Correspondence to New

Zealand, 1944,

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Vernon Gates, Rochester,

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. John H. Anderson, St. Paul.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Glynn McLaugh-

lin, Fairmont.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. J. L. Ching,

P.Prov.G.M., Nelson.

GEORGIA, 1945.

451 Lodges, 54,132 members, a gain of 6049.

159th Annual Communication held at Macon, 23rd and

24th October, M.W. Bro. Dave L. Shannon, Grand

Master, presiding.

In the course of his address. the Grand Master said:

"I have said we are- living in a new world. It does not

necessarily follow that it is to be a good world. Before it

can be a better world, we have many problems to solve,

many responsibilities to meet, many obligalions to dis-

charge. These adjustments are not coming from meetings

of the Big Five or Big Three; nor from the capitals of the

world; nor from the conference table. To be effective they

must come from the minds and hearts of men and women

who are willing to live their lives according to the Golden

Rule."

5685 brethren were raised, 1197 affiliated. 1475

reinstated. 909 demitted, 368 suspended, 925 died, and

106 ceased membership by the surrender of five Charters.

Three surrenders were for the purpose of consolidation.

There were 61 children in the Masonic Home.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. J. Henry Wilkinson. Augusta.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Daniel W. Locklin, Macon.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. J. C. Morris, N.W.

Atlanta.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Wm. G. Rudd,

P.Prov.G.M., Blenheim.

CONNECTICUT-1946,

129 Lodges, 37.896 members—a gain of 1752.

158th Annual Communication held at Hartford. 6th and

7th February, M.W. Bro. Henry K. Plumb. Grand Master,

presiding.

In the course of his Address the Grand Master said:—

"Several years ago we adopted a lapel button to recognise

50 years of service. This was a very wise move and has

been of real benefit to the Craft. Relatively few men,

however, last long enough to rate one of these

decorations, and, further, have naturally reached an age at

which their activities arc curtailed. I believe that if there

were set up a 25-year award, in addition to the one we

already have, it would result in increased interest among a

group of men to whom the Lodge has tended to become

an old story. I therefore recommend that a committee be

appointed to consider the feasibility of such an award, and

to investigate the matter of cost, design, method of financ-

ing, and any other pertinent factors."

The proposal was referred to a Committee to report at the

next Grand Lodge session.

There were 67 men and 123 women in the Masonic Home

at Wallingford, 34 men and 70 women in the Hospital,

and 16 men, 10 women, 4 boys and 1 girl being assisted

by the Masonic Charity Foundation.

2265 were initiated, 100 affiliated, 326 reinstated, 149

demitted, 123 were stricken from roll, N.P.D., and 673

died. The largest Lodge had 1011 members, the smallest

36. Recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge of

Bolivia and the Grand Lodge Alpine of Switzerland.

A Special Committee presented an ably-reasoned seven-

page report on the requirements of physical perfection in

candidates, and on its recommendation the Connecticut

Rule on the subject was altered to read:—"External

Qualifications Defined.—The external qualifications are:

That he shall be a man, not a eunuch, nor a woman; that

he shall be in sound health; and that he shall possess the

full enjoyment of all those faculties which give him the

ability, with or without artificial aid or substitution of

members, to understand, explain or exemplify the

requirements of our ritual; and capacity to support himself

and his dedendants. The Master of any Constituent Lodge

may dispense with the exact compliance with the Ritual in

the reception of a candidate to such extent as such

compliance may be beyond the physical capacity of the

candidate to strictly execute."

The Reviews by the Grand Secretary include a brief

summary of New Zealand's Proceedings for 1944.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Earle K. Haling, Willimantic.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Winthrop Buck, P.G.M.,

Hartford.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Benjamin S.

Coe, Waterbury.

————————

DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

BRO. F. W. C. NEES, BLENHEIM.

————

To be a member of a Lodge for sixty years must be a

rather unique experience, and there would not be many

brethren who could claim this distinction, but such an

event has recently been celebrated in Marlborough. Bro.

F. W. C. Nees, of the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity,

No. 106, passed his 60th anniversary as a member of this

Lodge on the 14th October.

Our brother was initiated into Freemasonry on 14th Oc-

tober, 1886, and has been an active member until a few

years ago, when he was compelled to curtail his activities

on account of failing health. However, he still takes a

keen interest in Lodge affairs, and always appreciates

being kept informed of current events. To mark the occa-

sion of his 60th anniversary, the W.M., W. Bro. J. S. Hill,

and a party of brethren of No. 106 journeyed to the home

of Bro. Nees, and a very happy hour was passed in his

company and that of some of the members of his family

who had prepared quite a party. There was a cake bearing

the inscription "60th Anniversary" and also the united

square and compasses. The health of Bro. Nees was pro-

posed by the W.M.. and several of the brethren spoke in

glowing terms of his long and faithful service to the Craft

and to the community generally. Bro. Nees feelingly

replied and expressed his appreciation of the visit. His

son, Bro. A. H. Nees, also replied to the toast for himself

and his two brothers, who also are members of No. 106.

In referring to the service which Bro. F. W. C. Nees has

rendered to Craft Freemasonry, it is interesting to note

that he has been associated with other branches of the

Order for very lengthy periods. He has been a member of

the Royal Arch Chapter since May, 1920, and the Rose

Croix since February, 1922, and has held the office of

Preceptor in the Knights Templar, of which he has been a

member from 1928.

We trust that our brother may be spared many years to

enjoy the pleasure of his Masonic friendships.

————————

AN ERRING BROTHER.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Next to the word Mother, no word in our language has

more meaning and music than the word Brother. It is from

above, and it reaches to the deep places of the heart. It is

religion, on its human side; and in it lies the hope of

humanity, the highest dream of the prophets is of a time

when men shall be Brothers.

When used Masonically the word Brother has a depth and

tenderness all its own, unique and beautiful beyond

words. It tells of a tie, mystical but mighty, which

Masonry spins and weaves between man and man, which

no one can define and few can resist. In time of sorrow it

is a tether of sympathy and a link of loyalty.

Of course, like all other words, it is common enough, and

may be glibly used without regard to its real meaning.

Like the word of God, it may be a coin worn smooth, or a

flower faded. But when its meaning is actually and fully

felt, no other word is needed among us, except on

occasions of high Masonic ceremony, when we add the

word Worshipful; or some other term of title or rank.

No other word has a finer import or a more ample echo,

expressive of the highest relationship in which dignity and

devotion unite. If we are really Brothers, all the rest may

go by the board, save for sake of ceremony. If we are not

truly Brothers, all titles are empty and of no avail. For that

reason, to omit the word Brother, when speaking

Masonically, is not only a lack of courtesy, but shows a

want of fineness of feeling.

What does the word Brother mean, Masonically? It means

the adoption of a man into an inner circle of friendship, by

a moral and spiritual tie as close and binding as the tie of

common birth and blood between two brothers in a

family. Nothing else, nothing less; and this implies a

different attitude the one to the other related not distant,

united not opposed, natural and unrestrained—wherein

are revealed what the old writers used to call "the happy

and beneficial effects of our Ancient and Honourable

Institition."

Since this is so, surely we ought to exercise as much

caution and judgment in bringing a new member into the

Lodge as we do in inviting an outsider into the family

circle. Carelessness here is the cause of most of our

Masonic ills, frictions and griefs. Unless we are assured

beyond all reasonable doubt that a man is a brotherly man

to whom Masonry will appeal, and who will justify our

choice, we ought not to propose his name or admit him to

our fellowship.

Still, no man is perfect; and the Lodge is a moral worship

in which the rough Ashlar is to be polished for use and

beauty. If the Lodge had been too exacting, none of us

would have gained admission. At best we must live

together in the Lodge, as elsewhere, by Faith, Hope and

Charity, else Masonry will be a failure. The Brotherly

Life may be difficult, but it is none the less needful. Our

faith in another may be repelled. or even shattered what

then?

Nothing in Life is sadder than the pitiful moral

breakdowns of good men, their blunders and brutalities.

Who knows his own heart, or what he might do under

terrible trial or temptation? Often enough qualities appear

or emerge, of which neither the man himself nor his

friends were aware, and there is a moral wreck. Some

"defect of will or taint of blood," some hidden yellow

streak, some dark sin shows itself. and there is disaster. A

man highly respected and deeply loved goes down

suddenly, like a tree in a storm, and we discover under the

smooth bark that the inside was rotten. What shall we do?

Of course, in cases of awful crime, the way is plain, but

we have in mind the erring brother who does injury to

himself, his Brother, or the Lodge. An old Stoic teacher

gave a good rule, showing us that much depends on the

handle with which we take hold of the matter. If we say,

"My brother has injured me," it will mean one thing. If

we say, "My Brother has injured me," it will mean

another; and that is what the Brotherly life means, if it

means anything.

Every Master of a Lodge knows how often he is asked to

arraign a Brother, try him, and expel him from the

Fraternity. It is easy to be angry, and equally easy to be

unjust. If he is a wise Master, he will make haste slowly.

There is need of tact, patience, and, above all,

sympathy—since all men are a little weak and a little

strong, a little good and a little bad, and anyone may lose

his way, befogged by passion or bewitched by evil. It is a

joy to record that Masons, for the most part, are both

gentle and wise in dealing with a Brother who has

stumbled along the way. Masonic charity is not a myth; it

is one of the finest things on earth.

What shall we do? If we see a Brother going wrong in

Masonry, or in anything else—"spoiling his work," as the

old Masons used to say—well, we must take him aside

and talk to him gently, man to man, Brother to Brother,

and show him the right way. He may be ignorant, weak,

or even ugly of spirit—driven by some blind devil, as all

of us are apt to be—and, if so, our tact and Brotherly

kindness may be tested and tried—but more often than

otherwise, we can win him back to sanity.

Have you heard a tale about a Brother—a suggestion of a

doubt, an innuendo about his character, some hearsay

story not to his credit? If so, did you stand up for him, ask

for proof, or invite suspension of judgment until, the facts

could be heard, remembering that it is your duty, as a

Mason, to defend your Brother in his absence? Such

things are seldom said in his presence. Is it not fair to tell

him what is being said and learn his side of the tale? If we

fail in our duty in such matters, we fail of being a true

Brother.

When we have learned the truth and have to face the

worst, what then? Long ago we knew an old Mason, long

since gone to the Great Lodge, who was chided by a

Brother for continuing to trust a man they both knew was

taking advantage of the kindness' shown him. The old

man replied: "Yes, but you never know; I may touch the

right chord in his heart yet. He is not wholly bad; some

day, perhaps when I am dead and gone, he will hear the

music and remember." And he did.

Hear the music? Ah, if we would hear it we must listen

and wait, after we have touched the right chord." And if

the right chord is in us, something in him will respond, if

he be not utterly dead of soul! If he does respond, then

you will have gained a friend who will stick closer than a

Brother. If he does not respond—and, alas, sometimes he

does not—then we must admit, with a heart bowed down,

that we have done our best, and failed. Some inherent

failing, some blind spot, has led him astray, dividing him

from us by a gulf we cannot bridge.

So a Mason should treat his Brother who goes astray. Not

with bitterness, nor yet with good-natured easiness, nor

with worldly indifference, nor with philosophic coldness;

but with pity, patience and loving kindness. A moral

collapse is a sickness, a loss, dishonour in the immortal

part of man. It is the darkest disaster, worse than death,

adding misery to guilt. We must deal faithfully but

tenderly, firmly but patiently, with such tragedies.

It is facts such as these which show us what Charity, in a

far deeper sense than monetary gifts, really means. It is as

delicate as it is difficult, in that we are all men of like

passions and temptations. We all have that within us

which, by a twist of perversion, might lead to awful ends.

Perhaps we have done acts which. in proportion to the

provocation, are less excusable than those of a Brother

who grieves us by his sin. "Judge not, lest ye yourselves

be judged."

Truly it was a wise saying, not less true today than when

the old Greek uttered it long ago. "Know thyself."

Because we do not know ourselves, it behoves us to put

ourselves under the spell of all the influences God is using

for the making of them, among which the Spirit of

Masonry is one of the gentlest, wisest, and most benign. If

we let it have its way with us it will build us up in virtue,

honour and charity, softening what is hard and

strengthening what is weak.

If an erring Brother must be condemned, he must also be

deeply pitied. God pities him; Christ died for him: Heaven

waits to welcome him back with joy. He has done himself

a far deeper injury than he has done anyone else. In pity

and prayer and pain let our hearts beat in harmony with

all the powers God is using for his recovery. "There

remaineth Faith, Hope and Charity; but the greatest of

these is Charity."

—"Masonic News."

————————

THE TWO GREAT PILLARS.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

M.W. Bro. J. G. Brown, of British Columbia, made some

interesting remarks on these pillars at a recent

Communication:—"At the porchway or entrance to the

Temple of King Solomon stood two great pillars. With

their separate and conjoint significance as Freemasons

view them, the brethren are all familiar. I am going to

give them new names, and let them stand at the entrance

to a new world, and they shall signify to us great

principles without which we have no hope for stability or

security for human life, or human society. The name of

the one shall be 'The Manhood of the Brother,' and the

name of the other shall be 'The Brotherhood of Man.' The

one stands for the highest realisation of the individual

personality: the other for the true utopia of human society.

The one is the symbol of what we may call the self-

regarding virtues, the perfection of the individual; the

other, the perfection of human society, the other-

regarding or altruistic virtues. Both are essential focal

points of human thought. We must seek to develop both

of these interests without subordinating one to the other.

A new world we must have. Better social conditions are

the imperative duty of the hour, but let us be assured of

this, that we cannot build a golden age out of men with

leaden instincts. Unless our personal motives and

purposes, our emotions, and passions, our aims and

ambitions, are purified, and cleansed, and made worthy of

the exalted dignity of man, we are but grovelling

creatures, and will be found invariably forcing down the

social conditions to meet our own selfishness and greed.

Well can the prayer of every man of us be that of the

Psalmist of old, 'Create in me a clean heart, O God, and

renew a right spirit within me.'" —

"S.A. Freemason."

————————

HAWKES RAY NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Bedford R.A. Chapter, No. 39. held its annual

convocation at the Masonic Temple, Waipukurau, on 2nd

November, when there was an excellent attendance of

members and visiting companions from the neighbouring

Chapters, Victoria, No. 4. Napier, and Heretaunga, No.

38, Hastings, being present in strong force. R.E. Comp. T.

Rowe, Grand Supt. of the District, officiated as Installing

Principal, and associated with him were V.E. Comp. E.

Clince Little. P.Z. and. V.E. Comp. Ken. Gillespie.

P.G.Swd.B. E. Comp. C. M. Petersen was enthroned as Z.

by R.E. Comp. T. Rowe, and addressed by M.E. Comp.

C. H. Critchley, P.G.Z. R.E. Comp. J. R. T. Slipper,

P.G.Supt., delivered the Charge, and R.E. Comp E. E.

Bott, Depute G.Z., presented the Charter. E. Comp. B. R.

C. McNicol was inducted as H. by V.E. Cornp, E. Clince

Little and was addressed by R.E. Comp. C. J. Hansard.

P.G.Supt, E. Comp. F. V. Ward was inducted as J. by

V.E. Comp. Ken. Gillespie, who also delivered the

Address in the unavoidable absence of V.E. Comp. Jules

Newton, P.G.D.C. W. Bro. F. V. Ward was installed as

W.M.M. by R.E. Comp. J. H. Wilkins, P.G.J. The office-

bearers for the year were invested by V.E. Comp. W. H.

L. Williams, P.G.D.C., and were addressed by M.E.

Comp. John Hobson, P.G.Z. The Address to the

Companions was delivered by R.E. Comp. Walter

Dobson, P.Depute G.Z. After the conclusion of the

ceremonial work a pleasant hour was spent in the

refectory, where the Grand Supt. delivered a thoughtful

address and the usual toasts were honoured. Regret was

expressed at the unavoidable absence of the veteran M.E.

Comp. R. A. Gillespie, P.G.Z., for probably the first

occasion in the history of Bedford Chapter. M.E. Comp,

Thomas Hobson, P.G.Z., was also missed from this

fixture.

————————

TARANAKI NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The members of Lodge Moa, No. 110, Inglewood, are

busily preparing for the celebration of the Lodge Jubilee,

to be held shortly. At their last meeting they had a large

number of visitors, including the W.M., officers and

brethren of Te Henui and Sir Donald McLean, E.C.

Waitara Lodges were present in strength. Three

candidates were proposed.

The ceremonial work in Lodge Hawera at its last meeting

was an initiation. There was one 1st notice, two 2nd

notices and ballot, and three E.As. are awaiting passing.

This Lodge recently held a very pleasant and successful

Ladies' Evening in the "Bon Ton" Tea Rooms.

Lodge Ngamotu initiated two candidates at their recent

meeting. They also have four waiting initiation, as well as

two F.Cs. for "Raising."

Lodge Kaponga at the October meeting "Passed" a

brother and balloted for another candidate.

Lodge Te Henui as usual has a very full agenda, and

plenty of work offering.

Stratford Lodge, too, has a very full list of work ahead. At

the last meeting two brethren were "Passed" and five

candidates are awaiting initiation.

Lodge Ikaroa at the October meeting worked a Third

Degree. The election of W. Master and officers was also

carried out. The Ikaroa installation was the last for the

year in Taranaki.

The Opunake R.A. Chapter paid a visit to Egmont

(Stratford) Chapter recently and brought a candidate with

them. At their own meeting, three days later, they

acknowledged two others.

Lodge Hinemoa. S.C.. held their Installation meeting

during Labour week-end, when Bro. Duncan. S.W., was

installed as R.W.M. There was a record attendance. In the

refectory, when responding to the toast of "W.M. and

Officers," the newly-installed Master urged the members

of his Lodge to take advantage of the "rising tide in

Masonry and do their utmost to help the Lodge along."

————————

RUAPEHU NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The ceremony of installing Bro. A. D. Young as W.M. of

Rangitikei Lodge, No. 38, was performed by R.W. Bro. J.

A. Nash. Prov.G.M., assisted by several Grand Lodge

officers. There was an excellent attendance and the usual

hearty welcome was extended to the visitors.

On 5th November Bro. W. N. Anderson was installed as

W M. of Lodge Otaihape. No. 142, by the Prov.G.M.,

who also delivered the Address to the W.M. The Wardens

were invested by V.W. Bro. W. H. Sandford. G.Lect.. and

addressed by W. Bro. T. Pairman, P.A.G.D.C., and the

brethren addressed by W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C.

The Installation meeting of the Marama Chapter Rose

Croix was held on 9th November. The ceremony of in-

stalling E. and P. Bro. Len. Wood as M.W.S. was

conducted by V. Ill. Bro. H. G. Teagle. 33°, assisted by

Ill. Bros. F. J. Rea and H. Hatch. 32°, T. R. Lees, 31°. and

W. W. Coutts and G. G. Priest, 30°. The attendance was

exceedingly large, several sister Chapters being

represented. The members suitably entertained the visitors

in the refectory after the ceremony.

W. Bro. J. Mennie. W.M. of Fending Lodge. No. 41, is

holding emergency meetings, and he is being well

supported by his brethren. Masonry is flourishing in this

district and many excellent candidates are coming

forward.

All arrangements are well in hand for the big "Maori

Night" to be held by the Ohakea Services Lodge in No-

vember, when all the offices will be occupied by members

of the native race, and the candidate, too, being a Maori

will add interest to the occasion.

The Manawatu Kil. Lodge members are being kept busy

visiting and receiving visitors and conducting degree

work, W. Bro. W. E. Anderson. W.M. being ably assisted

by that most efficient of Secretaries. W. Bro. D. F.

Smillie.

These notes, the last for 1946. would not be complete

without wishing the staff of the "Craftsman" the

compliments of the season and a sincere wish for a bright

and happy future for them. Your correspondent also

desires to thank Lodge Secretaries for sending in their

monthly notices and to wish them, too, many years of

happiness and prosperity.

————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The visit of the Deputy G.M., R.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness, to

the November meeting of Lodge Southern Cross. No. 9.

was one of the outstanding events of the past month.

There was a good attendance of members and visitors,

including R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell. Prov.G.M., and a

number of Grand officers. W. Bro. D. T. Miller W.M.,

and his officers conducted two candidates through the

Third Degree in a very impressive manner. At the

refectory proceedings a hearty welcome was accorded by

R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., on behalf of the

Southland District, in R.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness, who, in his

reply, delighted all present with a most inspiring and

instructive address.

During the afternoon our distinguished brother, in

company with the Prov.G.M., made an informal visit to

Lodge Aparima, No. 77, and met a good number of

members in the Riverton Temple.

On 6th November a special meeting was arranged by

Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, to welcome

M.E. Comp. J. A. Stables, G.Z., who was paying his

official visit to the Southland Territory. There was a large

attendance, including the 1st Principal and several

Companions of Wallace R.A. Chapter. No. 34. R.E.

Comp. F. N. Kerr, G.Supt, of the Canterbury District, was

also in attendance. The ceremonial work of the evening,

that of the Mark Degree, was conducted in a most

impressive manner by W. Mark Master Geo. F. Hoffman

and his officers. Several Chair Certificates and Royal

Arch Diplomas were presented by our distinguished

visitors. On retiring to the refectory a very enjoyable hour

was spent, when a most interesting talk was given by the

G.Z. on matters connected with Grand Chapter and its

activities.

E. and P. Bro. A. F. R. Crawford, M.W.S., and officers of

Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, worked a very

successful Ceremony of Perfection at the quarterly

meeting on 30th October. A feature of the refectory

proceedings was the floral decorations arranged by E. and

P. Bro. A. W. G. McKee, who is continuing the good

work done by E, and P. Bro. F. A. Steans over a long

period of years.

The installation of Master and the investiture of officers

of Lodge Winton, No. 108, was held in the Winton

Temple on 5th November in the presence of an excellent

attendance of members and visitors. Grand Lodge was

represented by R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., and

a splendid following of Grand officers. The ceremony of

installing Bro. H. E. Denny, J.W., as Master was ably

conducted by the Prov.G.M., assisted by his officers.

Sincere regret was expressed by all that Bro. J, A.

Stewart, the S.W., was unable to advance to the Master's

Chair owing to ill health. A handsome jewel to mark the

completion of 50 years service in the cause of

Freemasonry by this Lodge was presented to the Master

by R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G M., on behalf of the

brethren. After the Lodge was closed a retirement was

made to the Radio Theatre, where a banquet of

outstanding excellence was thoroughly enjoyed in spite of

the cold.

The recent annual meeting of the Invercargill Freemasons'

Hall Co. disclosed another year of careful and efficient

administration by directors of this organisation, under the

direction of R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., as

chairman, and the most capable Secretary, Bro. J. L.

Sutton.

The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, paid an

official visit to Lodge Waihopai, No. 139, on 18th

November, and witnessed a good working of the Second

Degree by W. Bro. McNaughton and his officers. He also

paid a visit to Lodge Harvey, No. 49, during the month.

V.E. Comp. B. J. Perkins was installed T I.M. of Southern

Cross Cryptic Council. No. 3, on 23rd November, in the

presence of a good attendance of members. R.E. Comp.

G. H. Brown. G.Supt., and several Grand Council officers

were in attendance. The ceremony of installation was

conducted by R. Ill. Comp. S. C. K. Smith. P.G.J.,

assisted by R. Ill. Comp. A. Scott, P.G.J., as D. of C. V.E.

Comps. F. J. Logan and H. J. J. Pierce were enthroned as

Depute M. and Prin. Cond. of Works respectively, by

Comp. G. G. Webb.

The W.M. (Bro. T. S. Grose), officers and brethren of

Lodge St. John, No. 64. assembled in good numbers on

16th November to welcome the brethren of Lodge

Manuherikia Kil.. No. 109 (Alexandra), who were paying

their annual official visit. The ceremony of initiation was

conducted by the visitors in a most impressive manner

before a good attendance. About 25 brethren made the trip

from Alexandra with a view to resuming the fraternal

visits enjoyed prior to the war years.

The recent official visit of the Master and brethren of

Lodge Southland, No. 273, to Lodge Cromwell Kil., No.

98 (Otago Central) was most successful and greatly

appreciated by visitors and members alike. The

ceremonial work of the evening was conducted by the

Southland brethren. Lodge Gordon, No. 320, held its

regular meeting on 6th November, when W. Bro. F.

Murray, W.M., and officers conducted the ceremony of

initiation in a most satisfactory manner. This was the first

ceremonial work conducted by this Lodge.

Ill. Bro. A. Sefton, 30°, Grand Commander of Zealandia

Consistory, which meets at Dunedin, handed over to his

successor. Ill. Bro. Wm. Robinson, 300, at the annual

meeting on 16th November. Several other Invercargill

members were present at this meeting.

————————

OTAGO NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The month has been a busy one for the Prov. Grand

Master and his officers, owing to the number of Installa-

tions attended in North Otago and the Dunedin District.

R.W. Bro. H. Archbold, who was accompanied by M.W.

Bro. W. Lishner, P.G.M.. V.W. Bros. T. L. Gillions,

G.D.C.. and G. S. M. Crawford. P.G.D.C., journeyed to

Oamaru, and, joined by other G.L. officers residing in

North Otago, conducted two Installations in that District.

The first was Lodge Ngapara, No. 68. on 15th October,

when Bro. Jas. G. Laird was duly installed as W.M. A

large number of brethren and visitors, principally from the

Oamaru and Kurow Lodges, witnessed the impressive

ceremony. This Lodge has experienced a very successful

year, in spite of its somewhat isolated position, and it is to

be congratulated on the fine Masonic spirit shown by the

officers and brethren, most of whom have to travel long

distances to attend meetings.

The very fine Temple in Oamaru provided a fitting setting

for the Installation of W. Bro. J. W. Watson as R.W.

Master of Lodge Oamaru Kil., No. 82. and resulted in a

capacity attendance to witness the ceremony and to pay

tribute to the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith,

whose presence and instructive and interesting address

were very much appreciated by all present. The proceed-

ings in the refectory were of the usual high standard and

concluded a very successful function.

The Installation of Bro. E. A. Payton as W.M. of Lodge

Oceanic, No. 154. was held in the Masonic Hall, St.

Kilda, on 23rd October, when a full attendance witnessed

the ceremony. The Installation supper, served in the St.

Kilda Town Hall, brought an enjoyable evening to a

successful conclusion.

On the following night, 24th October. Lodge Roslyn, No.

250, held its Installation meeting in the Masonic Hall,

King Street, and resulted in perhaps the most successful to

date, especially regarding the excellent attendance who

witnessed the Installation of Bro. W. E. Bell as W.M.

Lodge St. Clair, No. 246, held its Installation meeting in

the Masonic Hall, Cargill Road, on 6th November, when

Bro. Jas. Rennie was duly installed as W.M. in the

presence of a large assemblage of brethren and visitors,

and resulted in a very successful and enjoyable evening.

The buffet supper, too, was quite a success, the brethren

appreciating the opportunity of moving round freely and

meeting friends.

All the above ceremonies were conducted by the Prov.

G.M., R.W. Bro. H. Archbold, assisted by officers of

Grand Lodge. The Prov. G.M., has expressed his pleasure

and appreciation at the splendid attendances at these

meetings during the past month, and urges the brethren to

support their Lodges to the utmost and thus further the

interests of the Craft in our District.

The Hiram Lodge, No. 46, held its annual meeting on

22nd October. It is the custom of this Lodge to conduct its

own Installation ceremony, consequently the outgoing

Master, W. Bro. J. Lockhart duly installed his successor,

Bro. A. W. C. Gorrie, being ably assisted by his officers,

resulting in a fine performance on their part and reflecting

credit on those responsible. During the evening R.W. Bro.

H. Archbold, accompanied by a number of officers of

Grand Lodge, was received with due honours. Most

satisfactory refectory proceedings were enjoyed by the

very large number present.

At the regular monthly meeting of Lodge Morning Star,

No. 192, the W.M., W. Bro. A. G. Foley, had the pleasure

of receiving R.W. Bro. H. Archbold, Prov.G.M., who in

turn received M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, G.M.. with the

customary honours. The Grand Master's visit was very

much appreciated by the brethren of the Lodge, who

witnessed the unique occasion of the Grand Master taking

part in the initiation of a member of his family and

welcoming the candidate to the Craft with a neat and

impressive address, which was deeply appreciated by the

very large attendance, which included Masters of Lodges

from Gore, Waimate and Timaru, as well as

representatives from most of the Dunedin Lodges.

Lodge Manuherikia Kil., No. 109, celebrated its Jubilee at

Alexandra in suitable fashion. The arrangements had been

carefully planned and were excellently carried out. On

25th October a Special Jubilee Meeting was held in the

Lodgeroom, when the W.M., W. Bro. J. A. Arnott,

welcomed a good number of visitors representing the

Lodges in the Otago Central District, as well as from

further afield. The W.M. and brethren were delighted to

have M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, G.M., present and taking

part in the proceedings. Eventually W. Bro. W. Bringans.

a senior Past Master, assumed the chair and briefly

addressed the assemblage, explaining the purpose of the

gathering. The simple but dignified ceremony consisted

mainly of Odes, and addresses delivered by M.W. Bro. E.

C. Smith, G.M.. M.W. Bro. J. A. Sparrow, P.Pro G.M.,

W. Bro. J. L. Davidson. P.M.. and W. Bro. W. Bringans.

During the service M.W. Bro. J. A. Sparrow unveiled an

Honours Board of Worshipful Masters of the Lodge to

serve as a memorial to the members who have passed to

the Grand Lodge above. Altogether the service was most

impressive and was very much appreciated by all present.

The Jubilee Banquet, held in the Town Hall, was a fitting

conclusion to a highly successful evening. The

programme concluded on 27th October with a Church

Parade in the evening at St. Enoch's Presbyterian Church,

which was well attended.

————————

CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Lodge Robert Burns, No. 139. held its regular meeting on

15th October, when a double "First" was worked. This

Lodge has several candidates waiting advancement.

Lodge Riccarton, No. 276, held its regular meeting on

15th October, when two candidates were initiated.

Prince of Wales R.A. Chapter. No. 31, held its regular

meeting in the Temple on 16th October, when three

candidates were advanced by W.M.M. R. L. Reid.

Lodge Canterbury Kil., No. 23, passed two candidates on

19th October. This Lodge also has a number of degree

workings on hand.

The Installation meeting of Crown R.A. Chapter. No. 56.

was held on 21st October. R.E. Comp. F. N. Kerr, Grand

Supt., assisted by officers of Grand Chapter, installed E.

Comp. I. A. G. McCulloch as Z., E. Comp. A. F. Baker as

H., and E. Comp. A. J. T. Clements as J. for the ensuing

year.

The Installation meeting of Lodge Cashmere, No. 271,

took place on 24th October, when Bro. Leslie Leonard

Smith, S.W., was installed as W.M. by R.W. Bro. C. S.

Thompson. P.Prov.G.M., assisted by Grand Lodge and

Prov.G.L. officers. There was a large attendance of

members and visitors at this meeting.

St. Augustine R.A. Chapter, No. 1, held an Emergency

Meeting on 29th October, when the Mark Degree was

worked by the Past Zs. of the Chapter. V.E. Comp. C. H.

Burson acted as W.M.M.

Excelsior Rose Croix Chapter held an Emergency Meet-

ing on 29th October, and its regular meeting on 29th

November. On each occasion the M.W.S., Bro. J. C.

Lindsay, admitted one candidate to the Rose Croix

Degree.

Lodge Riccarton. No. 276. held an Emergency Meeting

on 4th November. and its regular meeting on 19th. At the

former meeting the Master. W. Bro. R. J. Roberts.

initiated one candidate. At the regular meeting the Third

Degree was worked by the P.Ms. of the Lodge, with W.

Bro. Jas. Saunders (Master 1941) in the chair.

Civic Lodge held its regular meeting on 5th November,

when an Initiation Ceremony was conducted by the

Master. W. Bro. H. P. Donald.

Lodge Southern Star. No. 256, is having a very busy year,

with a number of candidates offering. On 11th November

two candidates were initiated.

Lodge Shirley. No. 263, also has plenty of work offering.

On 12th November the P.Ms. of the Lodge, with W. Bro.

G. T. Grover as W.M., conducted the ceremony of "Rais-

ing" two candidates.

Zealandia Rose Croix Chapter held an Emergency

Meeting on 6th October, when the ceremony was

conducted by the P.M.W.Ss. officering the Chapter, with

Ill. Bro. C. M. Saunders occupying the chair, and

admitted two candidates to the Rose Croix Degree. The

Chapter was honoured by the attendance of V. Ill. Bro. A.

Digby Smith. 33°, S.G.I.G.. and the M.W.S. and brethren

of Clifton Chapter. No. 324, Ashburton.

The Installation meeting of the Preceptory of St.

Augustine of Knights Templar was held on 31st October,

when Frater G. Pollock, Preceptor, admitted four

candidates to the K.T. Degree. The Installation was

conducted by the P. Ven. Preceptor, W. A. Gribble,

installing Frater C. H. Burson as Ven. Preceptor and

officers for the year 1946-47.

The Masters and Pastmasters' Lodge held its regular

meeting on 20th November. There was a large attendance,

this being W. Bro. Frank Shanks' last night in the chair.

Several groups of Past Masters were present. V.W. Bro.

Ross Hepburn. G.Lect., gave the answers to eight

questions of Masonic interest, followed by a good

discussion. The Questions and Answers have become a

prominent and useful feature of the work of this Lodge,

and the number of questions answered to date has reached

the total of 250. The Associate membership of the

Masters and Pastmasters' Lodge now exceeds 1100, and

the Secretary-Editor has recently been given considerable

clerical assistance.

The regular meeting of the Royal Canterbury Preceptory

of Knights Templar was held on 22nd November, when

one candidate was admitted to the K.T. Degree.

————————

NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Southern Cross Lodge. No. 6, anticipates a record

attendance at its Installation meeting next month. A good

bus service is available, which will assist the members of

town Lodges to attend.

Ashley Lodge, No. 28, has had a very successful year, and

is now anxiously looking forward to the visit of the

Masters and Pastmasters' Lodge in February. All Lodges

in the North Group will take part, and further particulars

will be announced.

Mairaki Lodge. No. 131. is still busy, and W. Bro.

Clements and his team of officers "raised" two candidates

at the last meeting, when there was a crowded attendance

to witness the ceremony, including a candidate from

Robert Burns Lodge.

The Amuri Installation was as usual a bright and happy

one when Bro. K. Dunbar was installed as Master and his

officers invested by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson and

officers Prov. G. Lodge. There was a splendid attendance,

and the ladies as usual supervised the supper with their

customary thoroughness.

Acacia Lodge. No. 209, had a really good Installation

meeting, when Bro. H. N. Main was installed as Master

by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, assisted by officers of

Prov. G. Lodge. The attendance was right up to standard,

and the refectory proceedings were excellent. Bro. H. T.

Prebble and Mrs. Prebble were in charge of the catering.

which was of a most pleasing nature. R.W. Bro. Alan

Fisher. J.G.W., represented Grand Lodge and he had

several other Grand Lodge officers with him.

Kaikoura. No. 60, had a special meeting on Saturday, 9th

November, when a father and son were initiated. There

was a large attendance from far and near to see these

popular candidates join the Craft.

Cheviot, No. 124. are quite busy and hope to put on their

usual Christmas party, which is always welcome among

the children.

W. Bro. H. B. Billens. Secretary to the Great North

Group, is now back on the road again and feeling quite fit.

W. Bro. E. T. Powis. of Cheviot Lodge, who has been on

the sick list, is out and about again, but has got to go easy.

All the Lodges in our group wish all other Lodges the

compliments of the season.

Large attendances are expected at the Annual

Communication of Grand Lodge, to be held in

Christchurch, and the committee has all the arrangements

well in hand.

————————

NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The past month has been a very busy period for G.L.

officers in the Nelson Territory. V.W. Bro. Craighead.

Asst.Prov.G.M., presided over the Installation meetings of

the following Lodges: St. Cuthbert's, Motueka and

Nelson. In addition, there was the 93rd Installation

meeting of Southern Star Lodge, No. 735. E.C., on 15th

October, when R.W. Bro. Lawn, D.G.M., Westland-

Nelson, presided. There was a very large attendance of

both Constitutions, all Lodges in the Nelson Territory

being represented, and the presiding officer was ably

supported by a large following of D.G.L. officers,

including R.W. Bro. Jack, D.G.M., Wellington, and R.W.

Bro. Hutchinson, D.G.M.. Canterbury. There was a

splendid attendance of G.L. officers of the N.Z.C., led by

R.W. Bro. Mogridge, Prov.G.M., and included R.W.

Bros. Girling, Ching, Gould, and Thomson, and V.W.

Bro. Craighead. Bro. Clive G. Lockyer, S.W., was

installed as W.M., and greatly impressed with his Address

to the Brethren. He will be supported by Bro. E. R. Black

as S.W. and Bro. C. W. Kennedy as J.W., whilst W. Bro.

W. J. Shand-Smith is to continue his good work as

Secretary. The Address to the W.M. was ably delivered

by his elder brother, W. Bro. L. W. Lockyer, whilst the

Addresses to the Wardens and Brethren were delivered in

a most impressive manner by R.W. Bros. Hutchinson and

Jack respectively.

The proceedings at the other three Installations mentioned

were of a particularly high order and were well attended

by the representatives of the various Lodges, the visiting

W.Ms. participating in the ceremony. In each case the

S.W. was installed as W.M.. namely—St. Cuthbert's, Bro.

H. Green; Motueka. Bro. A. J. Drummond; and Waimea.

Bro. B. W. B. Cooper. The ceremonies were carried out in

a most efficient manner by V.W. Bro. Craighead, assisted

by G.L. officers, and it was pleasing to see W. Bro.

Cottier, Past Asst.G.D.C., officiating as G.D.C., thus

indicating a substantial improvement in health following

his recent indisposition.

The Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Mogridge, paid an official

visit to Lodge Havelock on the occasion of their October

meeting. There was also an official visit from the

Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, and they conducted

the degree. "Passing" two of their own E.As. An E.A. of

Lodge Waitohi is to be "Passed" by Lodge Havelock at

their November meeting.

V.W. Bro. Rev. H. R. Fell, Grand Lecturer, Wellington

District. delivered a most interesting and instructive

address on some of the first essentials in Freemasonry at

the October meeting of Lodge Nelson, No. 288, which

was greatly appreciated by the brethren, particularly his

advice on the delivery of "Charges."

Wairau Lodge. No. 42, met on 22nd October, when two

E.As. were "Passed." Preparations are in hand for the

Annual Christmas Tree function.

R.W. Bro. Mogridge paid an official visit to Lodge

Waitohi for their October meeting, when E.As. were

"Passed." The Prov.G.M. is also to preside at the annual

Installation meeting of Lodge Forest on 16th November.

Golden Bay Lodge. No. 2194, E.C., has a fair amount of

work in prospect, balloting for four candidates at their

November meeting.

R.W. Bro. R. W. Stiles, who is still in hospital receiving

treatment. has been elected a life Honorary Member of

Victory Lodge, No. 40, an honour which is particularly

well deserved, and he will receive the congratulations, not

only from the members of his own Lodge, but from all

brethren in the Territory. Three candidates are to be

initiated at the November meeting of Victory Lodge, and

arrangements are in hand for two combined meetings to

be held in December—one on 12th. when an address is to

be delivered by Rev. Bro. James Hay, Grand Chaplain.

and the other on 21st, when an address is to be delivered

by V.W. Bro. S. Cannington, P.G.Lec.

Two candidates were initiated at the November meeting

of the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, No. 106. The

Annual Christmas Tree function organised by this Lodge

is to take place on 9th December.