"READ, MARK, LEARN

——<>——

HE injunction to read, mark, learn and inwardly digest, although a Christian admonition, is applicable

to the whole Craft, We all learn, though sometimes only by rote, but as for reading, marking, and

digesting—sometimes we fall short.

Up and down the length of the country are Lodge rooms with small collections of books in the preparation

rooms, generally behind locked cupboard doors. At some time someone has started a collection, has ruled up

an exercise book, has come on duty as a librarian each month twenty minutes before tyling time. Afterwards

he has moved to another district, passed to the Grand Lodge above, or become discouraged by the lack of

response among the members of his Lodge.

Masonic literature is of various kinds. There are abstruse and scholarly tomes of interest only to the more

advanced scholars in the Research Lodges. There are simple manuals which every Freemason might read

with pleasure and profit. There is a lot, which can only be described as pious nonsense. None the less, in any

random collection of, say, twenty books on the Craft there is something for everyone who is genuinely

interested in our philosophy, history or ceremonial.

If a thing is worth doing it is worth doing well. If anything is to be done well the process of doing it must be

understood. To understand any subject fully it is desirable to read everything that is available about it. The

revival of a Lodge library is a task well worth undertaking. Membership of a Research Lodge which

maintains a library is a great aid to understanding the Craft. Individual or Associate Lodge membership in

cases where the Lodge is too far away for ready access to the Library is valuable because one of the

privileges is always the receipt of papers as published.

Fine as they are, the words of the ritual reveal an unexpected further wealth when read in the light of some of

the commentaries on various parts of the ceremonies—the legend of the Third Degree, the Working Tools,

some of the Charges. If we are to understand the Craft fully, to derive as much from its rich teaching as we

can, we must acquaint ourselves with the results of other people's studies. Reading maketh a full man, and

the earnest Craftsman wishes to be filled with the teaching of Freemasonry.

———————

THE MASONIC TEST.

——<>——

The Masonic Institution is built upon an ideal that is different from that upon which most good societies are

founded. Most organisations are anxious that they should grow in numbers. Campaigns for membership are

carried on to get people to join them. Every effort is made to convert someone to the idea that he should cast

his lot with them. Not so with Masonry. We seek not to persuade anyone to come with us. He must seek to

join us. He must knock at our door, and it is for us to say whether or not he is of the kind whom we desire in

our Institution. Membership with us is not a right, but a privilege.

On what basis, then, are we to exercise our right of judgment in determining whether we shall permit another

to enter our ranks? Certainly it should never be on the basis of personal motives or prejudices. Revenge has

no place in our Institution. The right of ballot should never be exercised from that standpoint. Nor should we

ever be actuated by anything that the teachings of the Institution condemn.

T

To be entitled to be of our number, a man should be "disinterested and generous, both in his acts, and in his

opinions of men, and his constructions of their conduct." Why? Because "he who is selfish and grasping, or

censorious and ungenerous, will not long remain within the strict limits of honesty and truth, but will shortly

commit injustice." He who loves himself too much must needs love others too little; and he who habitually

gives harsh judgment will not long delay to give unjust judgment. We want only men who are justly of good

repute. The Institution wants no one who must be first converted to its aims and purposes. It seeks not to

make bad men good, but rather to make good men better. To preserve this ideal, care must be taken to protect

it against the criticism that would be directed against it if it should admit one whose life was not in harmony

with this ideal and purpose.

However, in maintaining this standard, we must not overlook the necessity of careful observance of it in

respect to our own lives. This means that if we ourselves are selfish, would we not be stultified by excluding

someone else from our Society; because we possess undesirable traits of character should not be the reason

for admitting others with like traits, but rather for setting out immediately to remedy them in ourselves. And

if we have been lacking in something we should atone for it by doing that much more good in the world.

Before excluding anyone from associations with us, we should make certain that the fault does not lie in our

own standard of judgment. It may be that we cannot judge aright because we do not see aright. Before saying

that another has this or that shortcoming, we must make certain that we are not reading into the character of

another some trait that is ours.—"New Age."

———————

THIS LIFE OF OURS.

——<>——

It is a strenuous age in which we live; everyone tries to get ahead faster than the other fellow. Ideals are for-

gotten in the mad rush for supremacy. Brotherly love is something that seems to make a good subject for

essays, but that is about all. Charity has been commercialised until all the sweetness has been squeezed out

of it.

It seems that the greatest need of the world today is more old-fashioned character and kindness; a slowing up

of the rush long enough for some of us to realise that we are not here for too terribly long after all. The best

thing we can contribute to our times is tolerance and love. The surest method of receiving consideration is to

give it. It is much more pleasant to slap a fellow on the back than to .punch him on the jaw.

It is a steep grade, this thing called life, and we should welcome every opportunity to give our comrades a lift

when they need. it.

"Life itself can't give you joy

Unless you really will it;

Life gives you time and space,

It's up to you to fill it."

—"Indiana Freemason."

———————

ADMISSION OF CANDIDATES.

——<>——

Paper by V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn, P.G.Lec., Secretary

and Editor Masters' and Past Masters.' Lodge, No. 130.

Are we admitting too many Candidates to the Craft? This is a matter for Grand Lodge to deal with if legisla-

tive action is desired. We can only offer an opinion. I am not going to answer the question directly, but

merely give you some facts and let them speak for themselves. Any opinions I express are purely personal,

but I hope to offer some helpful suggestions. This question is not to be confused with the question of whether

our Lodges are growing too large. That is quite another problem.

Are we admitting too many Candidates to the Craft? Are we giving them proper Masonic Instruction?

These are not local problems—Grand Masters the world over (that is, in British countries and U.S.A.) are

expressing alarm at the sudden and vast increase in the number of candidates admitted during the last three

years or so. We all know what has happened in our own Lodges. War conditions have had a good deal to do

with it. Large numbers of young brethren being rushed through before they went overseas—many of them

joining years before they would normally have done in civilian life. Large numbers of men have returned or

are returning from overseas and are joining the Craft. War conditions have created general prosperity

measured in terms of the amount of money in circulation in the community. The consequences are: The

Lodges are full up with Degree work and have no time for Lectures or other Masonic instruction, Candidates

are put through two, three and four, or even five at a time, instead of individually, and thus lose the

impression otherwise made. Masters have to concentrate on Degree work and planning their meetings so as

to get the maximum number of candidates through in the eleven meetings at their disposal in the normal

year. Some Lodge Summonses recently showed various numbers—from 12 to 28 —nights' work ahead if

each candidate was dealt with in his own Lodge and single Degrees worked, The chief object of a Master

becomes that of coping with a flood of Degree work instead of taking some time and looking around for

means of giving his brethren some Masonic instruction. The great danger is that candidates are put through

their three Degrees and then neglected and forgotten. The Master and officers are too busy working Degrees

to give the new brethren any instruction. The proposer and seconder who ought to look after them are too

busy bringing more candidates into the Craft, or at any rate do not realise their responsibilities. The new

brethren are full of enthusiasm and a genuine desire for Masonic knowledge. There is no doubt about this.

They find no one at hand to help them or take any interest in them. They regard the Lodge as a "Degree

mill." Is it any wonder that they lose interest and drop out of the Craft?

Can anything be done about it?

Grand Lodge regards the admission of candidates as a domestic matter for the individual Lodge, subject to

proper qualification, notice, enquiry and ballot, as provided for by the Constitution. The only restriction is

that not more than five candidates can be initiated on the same day, without a dispensation. There is no limit

on the number that may take the Second and Third Degrees, and nothing to prevent a Lodge from working

all three Degrees on the one day if the Master so desires, and no limit on the number of emergency meetings

that may be held. There is no limit on the number of candidates that a Lodge may accept in a year and no

limit on the number of Degrees that may be worked in a year. The Board of Enquiry considers the candidates

individually on their merits and is not concerned with the question of whether a few or many are coming into

the Craft., but maintains a uniform standard at all times. The number of candidates entering the Craft is not

the exact measure of the increase of the Craft. The net increase is represented by Initiations plus Affiliations,

less deaths, resignations, and struck off.

Many Lodges have been through bad times and had few candidates, and have had to fill the Chairs with

P.Ms. An influx of candidates is for them the breath of life and provides a new set of officers for years to

come as well as welcome financial relief, in some cases urgently needed.

Personally I do not think that Grand Lodge action is called for or at all likely. We must trust the judgment of

the Lodges and of the Board of Enquiry and the common sense of the brethren. The matter is better

approached from another angle. Grand Lodge provides the services of Grand Lecturers and Lodges of

Research. The brethren should be encouraged to read Masonic books, the Lodges to establish Masonic

libraries, and the Masters .to take their newly-raised brethren to the local Lodge of Research. The Brethren

can join the Lodge of Research and subscribe to the Transactions. They can send in questions which will be

answered. Brethren should never be denied information. If the officers of the Lodge cannot supply it they

should refer it to the Grand Lecturer or the Research Lodge, or someone who can.

Since writing the above I have had the opportunity of reading the remarks of M.W. Bro. Roscoe J. Burch,

Grand Master of Michigan, at the annual conference of Grand Masters of U.S.A., in 1946, on the same

subject. He came to exactly the same conclusions, though better expressed, and on somewhat different

grounds.

M.W. Bro. Roscoe J. Burch, Grand Master of Michigan, in an address to the Grand Masters' Conference of

U.S.A. in 1946, entitled "How can Masonry avoid mistakes made following World War I?" raised the

question of limitation of membership.. He said:—"Was it a mistake that we initiated many thousand

candidates in that period? I .assume that the 'mistake' referred to in my subject title is that during the

depression we lost members as fast as we gained them during the boom years. If during those boom years

each Lodge had set a tight quota on the number of petitions it would receive—or the number of candidates it

would raise—would our numerical membership be much different than it is today?" After reviewing the

whole position and stressing the importance of Masonic education as a means of assimilating the candidates

into the Craft, M.W. Bro. Burch continues: "As to limitations of membership I presume this means a limit on

the number of Degrees a Lodge would confer in a month or year. This might be desirable in metropolitan

areas where there are several or Many Lodges, and where the candidate being made to wait unduly by one

Lodge could petition another Lodge not so busy. I would not like to see any worthy person denied the

privilege of being made a Mason. Would delegates to Grand Lodge vote for legislation that would limit the

number of candidates they might raise in any given period? Where is the Worshipful Master who does not

measure the success of his administration by the increase in membership? And where is the Grand Master

who does not feel pride in the numerical growth of his jurisdiction?". He concludes by saying: "We all need

to make Masons rather than members—and we need to put more Masonry into men rather than more men

into Masonry."

———————

MASONIC GEMS.

By P. C. Somerville, 33°, in "Masonic News."

——<>——

The Lodge Room is a sacred place:— such should not be forgotten. A Masonic Temple or wherever a Lodge

meets has been consecrated and dedicated to the uses of Freemasonry; This dedication and consecration is a

solemn ceremony. It is a beautiful ceremony that is religious in nature and consequently the Temple or

Lodge Hall becomes what might be termed a haven of refuge or a holy place. It is due to such and in keeping

with such that Grand Lodges frown with a critical eye on even any temporary use of these consecrated places

for any other than specific Lodge fees. Of course the candidate most likely does not know when he is on his

ambulations that he is on "holy ground" so to speak. However, he will soon learn, such as every member well

knows. There is much talk to the effect that one can hold communion with God anywhere. It's true, but does

he? The sacredness that prevails in a House of Worship, or the private and secluded atmosphere of the Lodge

Room—such is always a feature and an important part of Worship and a Masonic initiation ceremony. So

mote it be.—"S,A, Freemason."

———————

THE ACACIA.

——<>——

The number of species of acacia is very large, more than 400 are known to modern botany; but, for

consideration at the moment, only two are of particular interest to us. One—the Acacia Vera, called also "the

Egyptian Thorn"—otherwise "Acacia sayal —from which is obtained gum-arabic. The other is not strictly an

acacia, but is known as Robinia Pseudo-acacia.

The Robinia was introduced from America and was not known in England till the seventeenth century.

Therefore, it would not be this plant to which any medieval Masonic tradition would have reference,

although this is the plant that is usually depicted in connection with Freemasonry.

The Acacia Vera is indigenous to Palestine. It is identified with the shittah tree and shittim wood mentioned

in Exodus and Isaiah. It was used in the construction of the Altar of the Tabernacle and the Ark of the

Covenant. Legend connects the Crown of Thorns with the spiked twigs of the acacia, as well as with the

wood of which the Cross was made. It may be on account of this legend that the acacia has been termed by

Horace Walpole as "the genteelest tree of all."

Dr. G. Oliver, in "Discrepancies of Freemasonry," tells us:

"The acacia, which in Scripture is always called shittim, was esteemed a sacred wood among the

Hebrews. Of it, Moses was ordered to make the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, 'the Table of

Shewbread, and the rest of the sacred furniture."

It is interesting 'to note that in "the language of flowers" the Acacia Vera signifies "Friendship," while the

Robinia signifies "Elegance."

The model copied on the regalia of Grand Officers is the false acacia, a native of North America, while the

species that should be deposited is the true acacia, indigenous to Palestine. It is a pity that this should be so,

and it is to be regretted that there is this discrepancy, because not only is "local colour" not properly

portrayed, but also the intimate relation of the symbolism is obscured by the substitution of the "false" for the

"true."

We find that in many places the Origin and implication of the word "acacia" is referred to a Greek.

derivation. The Greek form of the word signifies "simplicity" and "innocence," and "aversion to evil," But

though this interpretation is mentioned by writers, there does not seem to be any satisfactory association of

ideas in this signification when referred to the usage with which we are specially acquainted.

That other symbolic interpretations should be given to the acacia is to be expected of a symbol employed so

extensively. It has been said to be consecrated to the sun in Arabia; it has been identified somewhat

fancifully with the Golden Bough of Virgil; it has been described as an emblem of an ardent zeal for truth.

But such diverse suggestions are not of consequence in the connection where we meet it.

We learn in many narratives of folk-lore that an evergreen was closely associated with burial rites; and it is

in that connection that we have particular cognisance of the acacia, though it is not anywhere affirmed that

its use was on account of it being an evergreen.

We are all acquainted with the particular event in Masonic legend with which the acacia is connected; but in

this there is not any suggestion that its application should be taken as emblematical of burial.

It would be more expressive if it were accepted as intimating something beyond the grave, something

figurative of a belief in a future life. It must be acknowledged that such a belief was frequent, as is shown by

various rites in various countries

The idea that it may be regarded as a symbol of immortality may be derived from its persistent vitality, an

example of which is given by Du Pratz, who tells us that if any bark be left on the branches of acacia, they

will take root if planted as posts. The red and white blossoms were regarded as sacred in Egypt; and in a

legend the hero is represented as placing his soul for safe keeping within the petals of the topmost bloom

growing in a Valley of Acacia.

We may conclude, therefore, that the acacia, though an emblem funereal in Freemasonry, in itself is a sign of

life; and it should be recognised that the particular episode with which it is connected is unquestionably one

of resurrection, It appears to form part of a narrative which has a meaning deeper than that found on the

surface. The acacia typifies that which is immortal in our nature. When planted to signify the place of rest,

where lay that which was perishable, it testified that the Master lived; that all that he denoted was instinct

with life; that after the darkness of night would come light from the East, the bright, morning star, heralding

a resurrection in the spirit.—"Miscellanea Latomorum."

———————

THE MORAL TEMPLE WHICH WE BUILD.

——<>——

The antient charge to be a good man and true and strictly to obey the moral law attaches to every man who

becomes a Freemason. Th6re is no equivocation of any kind. It must be obeyed strictly and not according to

the personal ideas of the individual. It demands exactitude of its performance in the everyday life of a

Freemason and there is only one meaning to its injunction. There is a difference between moral law and

Statute Law, inasmuch as the moral law governs the actions of the individual in relation to God, while

Statute Law is meant to control his actions as a citizen of the State. A Freemason therefore should not be

content merely in obeying the laws of his country, but he should also apply the principle of morality on

everything he does, both in thought, word, and deed. In distinguishing between right and wrong, the question

that should exercise his mind in everything he does is not only whether it is legal, but, also, if it is moral. It

may be legal, or even permissible by usage or custom though not strictly legal, but if it is not strictly moral,

then a good man and true will eschew it as a breach of his moral code.

The failure in observance of this great principle in the dealings of men is one of the chief causes of the chaos

in the world, not only today, but right through the history of time. Any action 'by an individual that moves

away from the Moral Law creates a wrong which may react in a multitude of ways and exert a harmful

influence in the lives of many individuals, even to the affairs of States and Nations, and mayhaps for a

considerable period of time. On the other hand, a strict observance of the moral law on all our actions will

bring to bear a mighty 'force for .good in human relations. It would bring about straight dealing, justice, good

living and good citizenship, that much desired way of life so dear in the wishes of all right-thinking people.

A Freemason, therefore, should always search his conscience and see that he is truly obeying this divine

primal law, for it is only by a strict observance of it in our own conduct that we as Freemasons, can hope to

contribute our effort to the work for which Freemasonry exists, It is not enough to acknowledge the truth 'of

the moral law, it must be exemplified in our lives if we are to eventually achieve our ideal of brotherly love

and affection throughout the world.

Let each one of us therefore turn the searchlight upon all of our individual thoughts, words, and actions and

endeavour to realise the effect they may have upon others, and so refrain from doing anything that might act

injuriously in any way and try to eliminate everything in our make-up that is not strictly in keeping with the

moral law.

This is the Masonic answer to the world's wrongs. It commences with the individual and ends with all

mankind. Obedience to the moral law is the panacea for all human ills. When men come to understand the

Masonic way of life and live by the moral law, practising the principles of brotherly love, relief and truth, the

peoples of the world will emerge from their chaos and enter a new world full of the riches of God's gift of

good things where life will be lived happily by all men as God means them to live in strict observance of the

moral law. — "W.A. Craftsman."

———————

KIRKPATRICK MASONIC INSTITUTE.

——<>——

BOARD OF GOVERNORS' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1946.

We have pleasure in presenting the accounts for the year ended 31st December, 1946; and in reporting on

matters which have occupied the attention of the Board during the year.

It has been evident for the past few years that the lowering of the rate of interest allowed on investments in

the Public Trust Common Fund from which the Board derives the greater part of its income would result in

an annual deficit. This year the deficit, after providing depreciation reserve of £71 8s. 3d., is £71 14s. 2d., a

better result than had been anticipated: Two factors contributing to this result were the fewer number of girls

in the Institute and the introduction of the universal family benefit. Under this benefit a payment is received

in respect of each girl in the Institute, whereas previously some did not qualify under the pension scheme.

A further sum of £166 was received, being the final distribution in the estate of the late John Tucker, and

making the total of this bequest £658 17s. 11d.

Only one girl was admitted during the year, and two, having reached the age of 16 years, left at the end of the

year, while another returned to her home. The present number in the Institute is 14. Every endeavour is being

made by advertisement and by direct communication with Lodges to acquaint members of the Craft with the

fact that there are vacancies in the Institute. It would be a great pity if the splendid facilities provided were

not fully used because they are not known to the mothers concerned. We hope that all Constitutions will

continue to keep before their members the name and purpose of the Kirkpatrick. Masonic Institute.

During the year it was decided to undertake extensive maintenance work which had become urgently

necessary. The total cost was estimated to exceed £700. This sum could not be met by the Board without

selling revenue-producing investments and an appeal for funds was therefore made to all Constitutions and

Orders of Freemasonry, The response has been most gratifying and such as to demonstrate that the work of

the Institute is highly valued. At the date of these accounts the sum of £437 2s. had been received, with an.

assurance of further substantial sums to come. These have now been received and will more than cover the

whole of the expenditure, leaving a balance in hand for further improvements when materials are available.

Suitable acknowledgment has been made of all contributions received.

It was intimated to the Board that in order to mark the centenary of the Supreme Council 33° for. England,

Wales, the Dominions and Dependencies of the British Crown, a sum of money was available for any

suitable purpose in New Zealand, After consultation with the three Grand Inspectors General in New

Zealand (V. Ill, Bro. Sir Stephen Allen, V. Ill. Bro. H. G. Teagle and V. Ill. Bro. W. J. Girling), the amount

of £700 was offered to the Board for the establishment and maintenance of a library at the Institute. This

offer the Board was very pleased to accept. The assistance of the Director of the National Library Service

and of the Lady Principal of the Nelson Girls' College, has been enlisted to ensure a suitable selection of

books, most of which will have to be imported. It is intended that the library will be properly housed and

inscribed in a manner to commemorate the centenary of the Supreme Council, When this is complete, there

is no doubt that the gift will add much to the enjoyment and education of the girls.

Miss Allison, who during a period of ten years as Matron contributed so much to the success of the Institute,

retired at the end of the year. I cannot do better than repeat the resolution which appears in the Board's

minute book, and which was conveyed to Miss Allison—"`The Board learns with very great regret that for

reasons of health Miss Allison finds it necessary to resign from the position of Matron. Under the

circumstances the Board accepts the resignation and expresses to Miss Allison appreciation of the work she

has done for a number of years and extends to her best wishes for the future."

Two members of the Board retired after very long periods of service. They were W. Bro, H. F. West, repre-

senting the Scottish Constitution, who was succeeded by W. Bro. A. H. Boyce, and W. Bro. C. M. Collins,

representing the Irish Constitution, who was succeeded by W. Bro. R. W. Martin.

The Institute is fortunate in that many Lodges and friends continue to show a most practical interest in its

welfare. Our thanks are extended to all who by contributions and acts of kindness have contributed to the

enjoyment and wellbeing of the girls. To Mrs. Challis, also, we express our appreciation of her loyal service

and the manner in which she contributes to the maintaining of the very high standard of the Institute.

J. L. CHING, Chairman.

———————

MASONRY IS NOT A SOCIETY NOR A FRATERNITY.

——<>——

Masonry is not a society; neither is it a Lodge nor a Grand Lodge. Masonry is a progressive moral science, a

great philosophical system. No Lodge, Chapter, or Council ever has or ever can make any change in this

science, that is in Masonry.

They may make changes in the organisation and methods of teaching, but the great truths contained in this

philosophy known as Masonry remain unchangeable and unalterable through all eternity.

With the distinction understood and clearly carried in mind, between the Science and the Fraternity, Masonry

becomes a most entrancing study, not only pleasing, but beneficial and practical (writes A. G. Gage and J. O.

Ball in "Masonic News"). Masonry teaches the materials, forces and influences that make up character and

ability, and points out the destination of the paths we are treading. Masonry throws light upon the motives

and requirements of men. It promotes companionship and encourages a fuller understanding.

When these results are not attained it is no reflection on. Masonry, it is only an evidence that the teachings of

Masonry are as yet not fully understood and conscientiously followed.

With regard to the methods of teaching these great philosophical truths, the Three Degrees of Ancient Craft

Masonry present the general Masonic System. These degrees are, however, explained and developed in the

Chapter and the Council, and it is only when they are understood in the light of the Capitular and. Cryptic

Degrees that they present clear, connected and understandable philosophy.

Life may be likened to the great Arch of the Heavens through which the sun progresses from East to West.

We see from where the Sun rises in the Morning of Youth to where it sets in the Evening of Old Age.

Masonry does not dogmatise about the time before the dawn of Youth or after the Sunset of Old Age; it

leaves this subject sacred to the religion of .the individual.

A study of the Heavens enables the astronomer to determine the Orbits of the Planets and the course of the

stars; so the ceremony of the Holy Royal Arch symbolizes to the Mason that every part of his course in the

Arc of Life positively influences his ultimate destiny.

The ceremonies of the Royal and Select Masters and of the Royal. Arch Degrees, like the great telescopes

and reflectors of the Astronomers, reach into the broad expanse of the Blue Lodge sky; and focussed now

here and now there, ever disclose some wonderful detail of the Sun, -some most beautiful planet or

instructive constellation. — "South Australian Freemason,"

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

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

——<>——

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

———

RHODE ISLAND-1946.

43 Lodges, 14,914 members, a gain of 478.

Semi-Annual Communication held 19th November, 1945, • and 155th Annual Communication held 25th

May, 1946, at Providence, M.W. Bro. Herbert A. Crowell, Grand Master, presiding at both.

Fifty-year Veterans' Medals, which had been on order, became available and were presented to 61 brethren.

867 candidates were initiated, 37 brethren affiliated, 151 reinstated, 53 demitted, 246 died, and 104 were

dropped. $8309 was disbursed in relief.

The Grand Masters of Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Connecticut attended as visitors.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Albert W. ClatiM, Providence. Grand Secretary: R.W, Bro. N. Arthur Hyland,

Providence.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Herbert M. Sherwood, Providence.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R,W. Bro. Edgar C. Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., Waipukurau.

————

OREGON-1946.

173 Lodges, 30,748 members, a gain of 2407.

96th Annual Communication held at Portland, 12th, 13th and 14th June, M.W. Bro. Fred. W. Hartman,

G.M., presiding.

After the opening the Grand Master said: "Brethren, it is my desire we pay tribute to that great country to the

north of us today. The colours will be brought to the altar, we shall salute the colours, the colours will be

posted, there will be one verse of 'America,' one verse of `God Save the King` and one verse of 'Two

Countries Side by Side.' Brother Junior Grand Deacon, you will inform the Colour Guard we are ready to

have the colours advanced. (The National Flags of the United States and of Canada are advanced.)

"Now, brethren, I am going to ask you to salute the National Colours of our own country, an emblem of

liberty, equality and fraternity, principles which are worthy of the devotion of every Freemason. I am going

to ask you also to salute the Colours of the Dominion of Canada, a land which has been at peace with us for

over a hundred and fifty years; a land which we are not trying to assimilate, and which is not trying to

assimilate us; a land which believes also in freedom of thought, of speech, of worship. The two National

Colours standing close to each other are an example to the whole world that two great nations can live in

peace successfully."

Recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge El Potosi, Mexico, to the Grand Lodge of Finland, and to the

Grand Lodge of Bolivia,

During the year the Grand Master had issued dispensations for the formation of six Lodges, and also for

"Oregon Military Lodge," to work at Frankfurt, Germany.

In the course of his Address, the Grand Master said: "During my visits to Lodges in the Jurisdiction, I could

not help but observe that the smaller the Lodge the higher percent, attendance was recorded. This confirms

my belief that many of our Lodges are becoming top heavy in membership.

"One of the values of Freemasonry is the opportunity one has in knowing his fellows, of becoming

conversant with his problems, of sharing his joys and assisting in the alleviation of his sorrows. If this be so,

how can one justify a Lodge so large that only ten per cent. or less attend—a Lodge so large that members

are not known to each other?

"There are twenty-two Lodges in this Jurisdiction that have more than 400 members, one is openly boasting

that it intends to have a thousand. It would sometimes seem that we have lost many of our old ideals, that we

are allowing the production and assembly line method of thinking to enter our Fraternal world, that we are

selfishly thinking of records in numbers rather than records of members who are doing something for the

benefit of humanity in general. No wonder we lose good materials to other organisations.

"It is to be hoped that all large Lodges will see the folly of having a membership that rarely attends, and will

sanction, aid and encourage the formation of other Lodges from their midst.

"To my mind this would be doing our Fraternity a real service, and be an act of kindness to many who would

appreciate the opportunity of doing something more than being an audience."

There were 24 men and 44 women in the Masonic and Eastern Star Home, and in addition there were 10 on

outside maintenance.

Provision was made to elect not more than three Honorary Members of the Grand Lodge in any one year in

future.

In most Jurisdictions in U.S.A. only brethren elected to the offices of Grand Master, D.G.M., Grand Warden,

Grand Treasurer, or Grand Secretary become permanent members of Grand Lodge.

In the course of his. Address the Grand Master said: "In the preparation of my paper for the Grand Masters'

Conference, I ascertained that in 57 Jurisdictions that comprised the United States and Canada, there were

only four that reported white clandestine Freemasonry. Thirty-eight reported Prince Hall (Coloured)

Freemasonry in operation, and each of these Jurisdictions assured me that there had been no conflict and that

they were doing much good among their own race.

"Concerning Prince Hail Freemasonry, their origin is just as legitimate as ours, although, using the formula

of exclusive jurisdiction, it is now considered clandestine because two Grand Lodges cannot exist in the

same State: however, there has been no attempt to outlaw or stop the operation of Negro Lodges of Prince

Hall Affiliation, such as there has been relative to those spurious organisations sponsored by white

organisers, and on this premise, it would appear that we are in sympathy with Prince Hall Freemasonry.

Information compiled from all parts of the United States and Canada indicates that without exception we

hold to the theory that if Freemasonry is good for the Caucasian, it is good for the Negro.

"It has been proven that Negro Freemasons can be a part of a regular Caucasian Grand Lodge without

friction. Also, as a separate unrecognised group, the Prince Hall bodies are endeavouring to meet the

problems of today along much the same line we are employing. We know that there are true clandestine

bodies operating, and if we carry the Masonic Law to the point of intolerance, it might be that these

clandestine bodies would eventually overwhelm Prince Hall Freemasonry.

"We realise that no radical change can be brought about without intensive and extensive planning. It takes

years to change ethnocentric intolerance, and this fact is recognised by the educated, thinking Negro, It will

be a long process, but even here we can assist. We should aid these Prince Hall Freemasons with our counsel

and advice. We could do this without inviting direct contact through inter-visitation. It would not hurt us and

most certainly could do a lot of good in building up their morale, If the Negro is to be educated as a whole to

the point where he can take his place as a citizen of the world, he must be educated from within."

M.W. Bro. Otto C. Hagmeier, P.G.IVI., Foreign Correspondent, devoted over a page to New Zealand, 1944.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Edward B. Beaty, Corvallis, Grand Secretary: W. Bro. Harry D. Proudfoot,

P.G.M., Portland.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Charles N. Whittlesea, Portland:

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Roy F. Furness, P.Prov.G.M., Blenheim.

————

CANADA (Ontario)-1946.

569 Lodges, 99,509 members, a gain of 3238.

91st Annual Communication held at Toronto, 17th and 18th July, M.W. Bro. Charles S, Hamilton, Grand

Master, presiding.

Grand Lodge donated $5000 to the Hospital for Sick Children and $2000 to the Cancer Fund, and in addition

cabled .2 1000 for Christmas Cheer for British Children.

During the year Veterans' Jubilee Medals (50 years a Mason) were presented to 137 brethren, and Long

Service Medals (50 years a Past Master) to 21 Veteran Past Masters.

One of the District Deputy Grand Masters, in his report, mentioned that in one Lodge a father and his two

sons (the younger just 21) were initiated.

Another reported the good work of a W.M. filling that position for the first time in his 79th year.

A third reported that one initiate was the fifth generation of his family to be initiated in his Lodge, and that

the chairs on that night were all filled by members of the initiate's family.

4862 candidates were initiated, 755 brethren affiliated, 584 reinstated, 1738 died, 630 resigned, and 393 were

suspended.

The Committee on Benevolence reported the expenditure of $65,630 in grants from Grand. Lodge funds and

of an estimated sum of $70,000, directly from local Lodges.

The Committee on Masonic Education presented a detailed report of the work being done to disseminate

Masonic knowledge; 1552 meetings of Lodges during the year were devoted wholly or partly to Masonic

education, the total attendance thereat being 54,473.

Among the Reviews by M.W. Bro. Herrington and his assistants is a page and a-half devoted to New

Zealand, 1944. The concise summary gives an accurate record of our proceedings at that Communication.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Charles G. Hamilton, Toronto.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. E. G. Dixon, Hamilton.

Grand Representative of N.Z,: R.W. Bro. J, A. Ross, Ottawa,

Grand Representative at N.Z.: M.W, Bro. Sir Stephen S. Allen, P. Pro G.M., Morrinsville.

————

IDAHO-1946.

80 Lodges, 10,955 members—a gain of 659.

80th Annual Communication held at Burley, 17th, 18th and 19th September, M.W. Bro. Marcus J. Ware,

Grand Master, presiding.

The following extracts from the Proceedings describe something quite strange to New Zealand brethren:—

"The Grand Master called the Craft from labour for the purpose of receiving several non-Masonic guests.

"The Honourable Charles F. McDonald, Mayor of the City of Burley, was presented at the altar, introduced

by Past Master Leonard Salmon, and escorted to the East, where he delivered a short but very hearty and

sincere address of welcome, which was responded to by the Right Worshipful-Junior Grand Warden, Bro. A.

Edward Prince.

"Mr. N. K. Jensen, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Idaho, was

then presented at the altar and introduced by Past Master George H. Schuler. He was welcomed by the Grand

Master, escorted to the East, and invited to address the Grand Lodge."

"Beautiful baskets of flowers were presented at the altar, with appropriate remarks, by representatives and

leaders of the following organisations, and placed in appropriate places about the room.

"Miss Mary Barclay, acting for Mrs. Patience Curtis, Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter, Order of the

Eastern Star of Idaho . . . . "

During the year nine brethren were elected by their various. Lodges to Fifty-year membership, and presented

with the regular certificates and fifty-year buttons.

925 candidates were initiated, 128 brethren affiliated, 97 reinstated, 142 demitted, 38 were dropped N.P.D., 1

was expelled, and 18 died.

$5496 was disbursed in relief to indigent Masons, their widows and orphans.

In the course of its report, the Committee on Masonic Education said:—"Although we are sadly in need of a

revival of the real study of Masonry in Idaho—encompassing the teaching and living of its sublime

principles, particularly its teachings of Tolerance, Charity, and Morality—we believe that under present

conditions of almost mass production of members there are two things of more importance. First is a study of

our present Masonic laws, and second is a study of and closer adherence to our adopted Idaho Work.

"It might seem a little severe at first, but we believe that Masters and possibly Secretaries should be required

to answer the questions in a specially-prepared questionnaire on Masonic law before they assume office."

Recognition was extended to the Grand Lodges of Bolivia, Columbia and Venezuela.

Bro. Frank Duncan, who was born in 1854, and "raised" in Vermont in 1875, was presented to Grand Lodge

as the "oldest Mason in the State of Idaho." It was mentioned that another brother living in North Idaho had

almost the same record. Bro. John Herbert, Tyler of Lakeside Lodge, No. 42, was also born in 1854, and

"raised" in Iowa in 1875.

The Reviews by M.W. Bro. Jay G. Eldridge, P.G.M., include nearly two pages covering New Zealand, 1945.

He finds some difficulty in following some of our business. He calls our list of 95 Grand Officers and Board

members "some slate." He mentions our "ceremonious and no doubt beautiful installation." We feel sure that

his doubt would be turned into certainty were he to see our Installation. He was surprised that after 56 years

of our independent Grand Lodge. English, Irish and Scottish Lodges still continue to work here.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro, Ray K. D. Sluyter, Twin Falls.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Clyde I. Rush, P,G.M., Boise.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. Byron S. Defenbach, P.G.M., Boise.

Grand Representative at N.Z.:— R.W. Bro. Robert Hay, P.G.W,, Auckland.

—————————

M.W. BRO. GEORGE RUSSELL, P.G.M., P.G.W. (S.C.).

———<>———

RECORD LONG SERVICE. IN THE CRAFT.

At the regular meeting in May of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 32, Wellington (formerly No. 639, S.C.),

opportunity was taken to mark the occasion of the completion of 55 years' membership of the Craft by M.W.

Bro. Russell, P.G.M., by the W.M. of the Lodge (W. Bro. H. M. Conway) requesting the veteran M.W.

brother to occupy the Chair as he had done in 1911 and in 1932 as Installed W.M.

On asking Bro. Russell to accept the gavel and with it the control of the Lodge to work the Second Degree,

the W.M. reminded him of a similar occasion in 1942 on his completion of 50 years' service, and expressed

the sincere desire, indeed the unanimous wish, of all his brethren that he would go on for many years to

come, not only to celebrate his Diamond Jubilee in the Craft, but to occupy his exalted position in the service

and counsels of the Order with continued pleasure to himself and honour to the Society in which he had

become a member in his mother Lodge, St. Andrew, in May, 1892.

M.W. Bro. Russell, on accepting the gavel, requested that R.W. Bro. Rod, P.G.W., and W. Bro. King be

placed in the chairs of the Senior and Junior Warden respectively, and then worked the Degree with his

customary efficiency born of long and continuous service.

In the refectory proceedings, which were marked by special cordiality, M.W. Bro. Russell's toast was

received with great enthusiasm, and in his reply he spoke of the true rewards to be obtained in the Craft as

being commensurate with the amount of cheerful service the brethren gave to it. At the conclusion of his

reply Bro. Russell mentioned the great help and encouragement in all his. Masonic duties he had received

from Mrs. Russell, and the W.M. asked him to accept for Mrs. Russell a large and beautiful bouquet of

flowers from the brethren with sincere good wishes for many years of health and happiness to them both.

———————

We desire to acknowledge with thanks receipt of the Book of Proceedings of the United Grand Lodge of

Victoria for the year 19413.

———————

ARE THE PRAYERS . AND CHAPLAINS ESSENTIAL TO FREEMASONRY?

———<>———

(Continued from June issue.)

In war the Chaplains or Padres are the most suitable men to be found to carry on the vital spiritual aspect of

the daily life of the service men and women. It is to these Chaplains that all service men and women go for

help and spiritual support, and all this in a world of men and women banded together for purposes of

destruction of others whilst we are banded together to promote happiness and brotherhood. We should have

strong men in the office of Chaplains, men who should be the guides, philosophers and friends of the

brethren, and it would be a wonderful thing if in our Lodges the Chaplains could all be men in the category

of the Services Chaplains, not just an officer of the Lodge. To me, as an ordinary man, that is the one thing

wanting, so vitally necessary to our Order. You know, and I know, and only too well, that numbers of our

members have never attended any church for reasons best known to themselves, but it does not reveal any

lack of spirituality on their part, but, on the contrary, ever so many men are, in their own way, deeply

spiritual and are looking for spiritual help and guidance from others. It seems to me a golden opportunity for

our Chaplains to carve out a great future for themselves from this aspect of our Lodge work. Is there anyone

who doubts my words? I have had experiences of questioning by members. For some years I have addressed

hundreds of brethren and after the meeting I have been waylaid by members who have thanked me and asked

numerous questions which have been troubling them. Frankly, I have been amazed at the variety of the

questions and their deep spiritual implications. I have felt that there is a tremendous field of opportunity

waiting for suitable Chaplains.

How much better could the Chaplain with a spiritually-minded outlook and with an utter belief and sincerity

in his sacred office and all that it stands for, do for his fellows than I can do?

His office is, and should be, an office of great respect, and I have yet failed to find any brother who does not

reverence the office of Chaplain. As a natural consequence of this he would be more prone to listen to a God-

fearing Chaplain and take his advice and friendly monition.

As a pattern for imitation, let us take the orations of our Grand Chaplains (Priests of Holy Orders) at the

Consecrations, and the rapt attention of the audience and the repeated remarks from members as to the

impression left upon them. Again let us take the remarks of the Grand Chaplains at Installation festive boards

when responding to the toast of Grand Lodge, all showing the respect with which the brethren listen to the

messages given by the clergy, and these listeners are often hard-bitten workers and men of the world, yet at

heart are children, seeking for the hidden truths, the little glimmer of Divine light and spiritual inspiration

and help which always seem to be so elusive.

What a wonderful opportunity and field is open to every Chaplain of every Lodge to be the Counsellor, guide

and friend of every member, to be such that his brethren come to him with all their spiritual troubles, their

gropings for more light, their search for the hidden truths contained in the Volume of the Sacred Law, and

who is there better to advise them than the Chaplain?

I sincerely believe this to be one of the ideals and prerogatives of Freemasonry.

The candidate is keyed up to concert pitch, on his initiation, and it is then that the greatest impact and

influence must be made, must be indelibly imprinted on his mind, must be made to realise that after he has

been proved to be free in mind and capable of thinking for himself, rationally, he is commanded to kneel

whilst the blessing of Heaven is invoked. What a blessing it is! What an effect it must have if it comes from

the heart of one capable of imparting the inspiration for its full effect, of forcing his own spirituality on the

open and receptive mind of the candidate. Somehow it is at this point that one of the reasons for the falling-

off of membership after some time spent with us is found. That of the missing of the initial impact of the

Divine blessing on the candidate through inept delivery and unsuitability of the person acting as Chaplain.

To hear the voice of the late Dr. A. T. Holden was an inspiration, and many brethren think of and bless the

influence of that great man and the influence of his personality and his spirituality, and I am led to believe

that those men who came under his influence remain active members of the Craft until they are called to

worship with him in the Grand Lodge above.

I also have been deeply impressed with the voice and personality of the late W. Bro. Tom Hatton.

During the great war such as we have just passed through the value of real prayer cannot be overstated. The

least pious amongst us has but little inclination to discuss the matter academically.

Whilst the angel of death was stealing over the nations and breathing into the faces of loved ones as he

passed, we realised instinctively that Eternal interests had suddenly become paramount, and we humbly

approached the Divine footstool, because in sober truth and trust we had no alternative.

I cannot see any difference between War and Peace to the perplexed soul of the individual or the time of

approach to the Divine footstool, and I fail to see why the present so-called Peace is not as urgent as the war

period, and I feel that our Chaplains have in their hands a marvelous opportunity to be the focal point for all

the spiritual troubles of the individual and to become the outstanding officer of the Lodge.

Prayer is the vital breath of the perplexed soul, whether fighting in a valley or praying on a hilltop, and both

have somehow become co-ordinated.

The hearer of prayer is also the God of battles, so let the sword and the censer co-operate.

If the Chaplain were more in evidence or more to the forefront there would be less bitterness among brethren

and more happiness in Lodges, less jealousies, less petty complaints. We cannot shut our eyes to those

things!

My ideal Chaplain is one who is infinitely kind, full of the milk of humanitarian motives, and strong with a

great tolerance of the failings of a brother, not like one Past Master when I was defending an erring brother,

who was the unfortunate product of the last war, who said to me, "We are not our brother's keeper." One with

an undertone of pathos in his voice, in his pleadings to the Great Architect on behalf of his brothers, his

erring brethren and his not so erring brethren, his deep interest in the lonely brethren and the seeming

unloved brethren, and the result would mean greater attendances, less falling-off of memberships, less

childish jealousies.

The Chaplains and the prayers, are essential to Freemasonry. They are necessary so that the Chaplain can

tenderly bear up to the throne of the Great Architect the cause of those so lonely in the crowded places, even

in our lodgerooms, those also who stubbornly shut themselves off from human friendship and love and

especially those of our brethren who suffer so much from sorrows and misfortunes.

All this breeds friendships, lasting friendships, the love of brother for brother. Do you remember those words

in the Volume of the Sacred Law, "It is not good that man should live alone"? Let us therefore get together,

just I, myself, and me, and my brother.

There is really no difference between Crusoe marooned on an island and a weary brother marooned in his

little castle of self.

The effect of concerted action by the Chaplain with his prayers will result in the spectacle of rebirths of

David and Jonathan. Ofttimes I picture the Chaplain as a lonely man and Officer, and I am tempted to think

of the scene in an Eastern garden with a man in His Agony who comes up to His disciples asleep and betrays

Himself in His speech when He says, "Could ye not watch with me—."

He needed that close brotherly love and affection, that quality for which our Order was founded and which

we so often forget.

In our Lodges convened for the propagation of the highest form of brotherly love our Chaplain should be

considered from the point of view of a friend, wherein every brother could say, "Behold, my friend!"

Here is a beautiful verse, appealing in its simplicity:—

The nicest thing in all the world is just

A cosy sort of friend

With whom I am so much at home

I talk to without end.

And, when at last I've finished all

The things I have to say,

I know my chum will never give

My little thoughts away.

Are not the Chaplain and the prayers appointed and prepared for a specific object? I think so.

The heart being the unit of sincerity and honesty, was, as a human heart, patented long ago! And the Creator

has not seen fit to bring out a later model. That seems to be the reason why St. Augustine has expressed those

wonderfully beautiful thoughts: "Thou has made us for Thyself, oh God, and our hearts are restless until they

rest in Thee."

Prayers demand some sublime impulse as their mainspring. Abraham was so stirred by the clear intimation

of Sodom's doom that the longing to interpose on its behalf was reflected in his countenance. I like to believe

that that is one of the deepest lessons I have learned from the duties imposed on the Chaplain in his Sacred

office.

I like to think that the answer of Jehovah to Abraham's heart was, "Speak, child of the kingdom, for the

Divine Master is waiting to hear thee."

Everything is then possible in the light of that Supreme fact of the sincere and honest heart.

The hearer of our Masonic prayers is always standing before our earnest Chaplains.

What this sad old world needs today are men who will gather up the sorrows of this stricken world and age

and set them forth in impassioned entreaty at the footstool of the Great I Am.

It is not that we need soldiers, but priests of intercession, men who can turn to our brethren with that swift

look of appeal which will at (nice arrest the wayward thoughts and actions of brethren and create happiness

among all men.

But, what of the human response which reflects the greatness of this divine attitude? We should have respect

for its objects, its recognition of divine righteousness.

Our Masonic prayers are model prayers well fitted to impress suppliants in the framing of their own

entreaties.

These prayers are models of the catholicity of its objects, In them lie the power of personal equation and lead

the way to wonderful magnanimity.

'The prayers should be judged in the light of divine rectitude. The Chaplain intercedes for us with reasoned

importunity and reverence. The personal equation comes into it again. The work of the Chaplain Is a

personal one and his interest is on behalf of his brethren, as Abraham had in pleading for Gomorra because

of his kinsman, Lot, and I like to think that our Chaplain pleads for his brethren in the danger zones of life,

He asks and intercedes for favours, but finally leaves the decision to the Great Architect, who in His wisdom

and rectitude does as He thinks fit.

We desire no trumpery privileges. Those which may leave unchecked the social perils which we as

Freemasons are mainly formed to combat, have for so long vitiated the springs of our well-being.

Our teachings are all aimed at the widespread worship of Mammon—the insane rush after amusement—the

tyranny and over-indulgence of strong drink—the insolence of aggression and militarism, and the

Consequent neglect of all vital and undefiled religion—these, and such like things which are contaminating

the very breath of our modern civilisation, must be resolutely dealt with and exorcised from the body of

Freemasonry.

These thoughts are the vital points and the core of nay argument, and in my opinion why Masonry was

founded and is carried on, and why the office of Chaplain and the use of the prayers are so very vital to our

Masonic existence.—"Victorian Craftsman."

——————

QUESTIONS TO BE ASKED OF CANDIDATES.

———<>———

At the last meeting of the London Rank Association, when the President, W. Bro. Sir Harold Kenyon,

P.A.G.D.C., occupied the chair, the following set of ten questions to be put to a candidate when interviewed

by the Lodge Committee were approved by the vote of those present, though there was lively discussion in

connection with some of them;—

The Worshipful Master, as Chairman, addresses the candidate:

You have been proposed and seconded as a member of the Masonic Craft, I must first enquire if you belong

to any "fraternal society?"

It is my duty to inform you that Freemasonry is a universal system of morality. Its teachings are based upon

belief in the existence of God and the brotherhood of man.

Do you believe in God?

While acknowledging with deep reverence the eternal and all powerful Creator, Freemasonry places no

restrictions upon a man's religious or political opinions. The realisation of your desire to become a member

of our fraternity will depend upon the judgment of the members of the Lodge who are zealous in maintaining

its good name. I shall be glad, therefore, if you will answer the few questions I will now put to you.

1. Do you expect by becoming a member of our Order to obtain any advantage relative to your position as
a citizen or 'as .an individual?

2. Why do you wish to become a Freemason?

3. Why do you wish to join this particular Lodge?

4. Have you contemplated joining any other Lodge?

5. Are any members of your family Freemasons?

6. Are you married?

7. Does your wife know of this application and is she in sympathy with the idea?

8. Have you at any time been found guilty of any offence in a Court of Law?

9. Will you be able to attend the meetings regularly and punctually?

10. Have you been advised of the financial obligations involved; and are you satisfied that the demands and
responsibilities of Freemasonry can be met without detriment to your family or position?

It may be pointed out that the questions were prepared with the idea of being helpful, and that they have been

designed as being questions which will give a lead or invitation to the candidate to answer more than just

"yes" or "no." They are, of course, in no sense obligatory. The Master, in exercising his duty in seeing that

due enquiry is made, can put such questions as he deems expedient and frame them in his own way, if he so

desires.

—"Masonic Record," London.

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

Communications relating to Subscriptions, Lodge Advertisements and all business matters should be addressed to the

Secretary, N.Z. Masonic Newspaper Co., Ltd., P.O. Box 334, Wellington.

Lodge Reports, literary matter and correspondence should be addressed to the Editor, N.Z. Craftsman, P.O. Box 334,

Wellington.

Communications regarding Trade Advertising should be addressed to the Charles Haines Advertising Agency, Ltd.,

P.O. Box 1490, Wellington, or J. Ilott, Ltd., Box 1491, G.P.O., Wellington.

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

——————

OBITUARY.

——<>——

W. BRO. T. M. MILLIGAN, TRENTHAM LODGE, No. 262.

After serving with the Australian Forces at the South African War, the late W. Bro. Thomas Martin Milligan

was initiated into Freemasonry in Lodge St. John, No. 121, I.C., over forty years ago, soon afterwards

coming to New Zealand and settling in Trentham, where he soon earned the esteem and respect of all with

whom he came in contact. In 1922 he called together those Freemasons living in and around the district, with

the idea of forming a Lodge at Trentham. He was elected the provisional secretary, and it has since been

generally agreed that it was his zeal and enthusiasm which held the brethren together and enabled the many

difficult problems to be overcome in forming the Trentham Lodge, No. 262. The Lodge was consecrated on

5th April, 1924, W. Bro. Milligan being elected foundation Secretary, The following year he was elected

J.W., the next year S.W., and installed as Master in April, 1927. In his Address to the Brethren at his.

Installation, he urged the members to get a permanent home. for Masonry in this district, and immediately set

about the task with the determination and zeal so characteristic of him, by forming a committee, with himself

as chairman, which with the support of the brethren built this Temple on a section Previously purchased. He

was able to occupy the chair in the new Temple on the night of his successor's Installation— 14th April,

1928. Continuing to give his full support to the Lodge, he was again elected Secretary in 1932, and filled this

office with satisfaction to the brethren till 1938 when a serious illness and a period in hospital 'caused him to

give it up. He was then elected Treasurer, and served as such for two years until failing eyesight and further

illness caused him to retire from active participation in Lodge work. The Lodge than conferred upon him the

honour of being its second honorary member, which his work and enthusiasm for Masonry so richly

deserved. Those who were present will remember his pride and pleasure on the evening of 15th March, 1845,

when his younger son, Bro. J. M. Milligan, was initiated into Trentham Lodge after returning from the war.

In spite of illness and much pain he remained cheerful and took a keen interest in the work and affairs of the

Lodge right to the last. Trentham Lodge has suffered a severe loss by his death, but his work will remain for

all time, and his zeal and enthusiasm is something we should all endeavour to emulate.

V.W. BRO. FRANCIS CHARLES JAMES COCKBURN, P.G.Lec.,

WAIMEA LODGE, No. 266.*

Although our V.W. Brother had been indisposed for the last two years, several of our older brethren had kept

in close touch with him, and his interest in our Lodge remained unabated, so that brethren received a great

shock on Saturday evening, 14th June, when they were told that he had passed away.

On Monday, 16th June, a service was held at Nelson Cathedral, and the large number present bore testimony

to the high esteem in which our late brother was held. Afterwards a number of brethren attended the funeral

at Nelson Cemetery, the burial service at the church being delivered by the Dean of Nelson, the Very Rev, P.

B. Haggitt, and the Masonic ceremony was read by the W.M., W. Bro. B. W. B. Cooper.

V.W. Bro. Cockburn was originally initiated into the craft in England, and after coming to New Zealand in

1905 he joined Corinthian Lodge, No. 1655, E.C., at Thames. When Waimea Lodge was consecrated in 1924

he was a Charter member and occupied the Junior Warden's chair. He became W.M. in 1926, and later was

elected to the office of Grand Lecturer. Many brethren will remember the lectures and papers which he

delivered.

In Royal Arch Freemasonry he was a Past First Principal and a Past Grand Chancellor. In the Nelson

Provincial Rose Croix Chapter, No. 221, he was a Past Most Wise Sovereign, and held the 30th Degree.

By his quiet and kindly disposition he had endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact, and his

loss is such that it cannot fail to be felt by the Craft.

—————————

MASONRY IN YOUR DAILY LIFE.

——<>——

The knuckles of prophecy are beating at the West Gate of almost every Lodge throughout the length and

breadth of this Commonwealth. To those within the alarm may be just another who seeks to enter, but for the

seeker what lies within? Will he find there a vital relationship between Masonry and his daily life, or will he

become just another name on the roster, another who pays .dues and never comes. That depends on those of

us who sit within, upon our influence and our methods of imparting the great lessons which have been given

us and which we should pass on to another who comes as we once came.

Certainly a vital relationship should exist between the great teachings and philosophies of Masonry and our

daily living; yet in many cases these two things are as widely separated as the poles. We cannot require the

neophyte to absorb our philosophy, but we can avoid perverting our instruction and misplacing our emphasis.

Perhaps we ourselves have never learned the real meaning of Masonry. Perhaps we have failed to see the

beauty of its teachings or to be favourably impressed with the lessons which it mutely holds out to us.

According to the time-honoured principles of our great Fraternity, it can never, as an organisation, become

engaged in any of the great social problems of the day, nor take part in any of the issues at stake in the

civilised world in which we live. It can, through you and through me, plant within the hearts of those who

come among us a concern for elemental justice for every individual and minority group. It can, through your

influence make him aware that he has a part to play in the drama of government; in the development of

cordial relationships between nations; in the promotion of adequate opportunities for right living for all of

the people who are dwellers upon the face of the earth.

We are reminded over and over again that we owe certain duties to the State; that we recognise that each of

us is a child of God and that we, by the very nature of our Constitution, subscribe to and support the truth of

the Fatherhood of Gad and the Brotherhood of Man, These are the tenets of our profession—let us engrave

them upon the hearts of those who assemble around our' altars that their light may shine forth so that those

who sit in darkness shall see it and rise again to walk before the Lord.

We have a little time in which to re-establish mankind's faith in man and in the theory of brotherhood—but,

my brethren, it is later than we think, and we must labour unceasingly for the accomplishment of these things

within the circles of our personal lives, or the world shall be plunged into darkness and the word of truth lost

forever.

—"A.B.G.," in the "Virginia Masonic Herald."

—————————

BRETHREN IN WELLINGTON HOSPITALS.

——<>——

COMMITTEE REPORT, No. 37.

———

Public Hospital.—Ward No. 2: Bro, L, Barcham, Lodge Mokoia; Ward No. 5: Bro. Arthur Lauchlan,

Renown Lodge; Ward No. 10: Bro. T. W. W. Smithson and Bro, J. C. Maule, both of Lodge Whetu

Kairangi; Ward No. 20, Bro. A. J. Hardy, Coronation Lodge; Seddon Ward: Bro. B. T. Clothier, Island Bay

Lodge; Soldier& Ward, Bro, D. McDonald, Hinemoa Lodge.

Lewisham Hospital.—Bro. W. Carlton, Haetea Lodge; Bro, V. E. Winter, Waikaremoana-Wairoa.

Hobson Street Hospital.—Bro. W. Ellingham, Lion Lodge. Bro. Traughton has been discharged from

hospital and has gone home. Bro, V, E. Winter has also gone home. We wish these two brethren well and

hope they have made a good recovery. Bro. W. Carlton has undergone a successful operation and hopes to be

well enough to go home soon. Bro. Ellingham is progressing favourably after his operation and we wish him

well. All the ether patients are doing well and we send to them our hearty greetings and best wishes.

—————————

HAWKES -BAY NOTES.

——<>——

The regular meeting of Lodge Ruahine, No. 80, Woodville, in May was a red letter occasion, The Master of

Lodge Pakama, No, 319, Palmerston North, W. Bro. J. A. Colquhoun, paid a fraternal visit accompanied by

thirty-two members of his Lodge and a candidate to be raised to the Third Degree, After the completion of

the ceremonial work, which was carried out by W. Bro. Couston, Master of Lodge Ruahine, assisted by his

officers and P.Ms., an adjournment was made to the Manchester Unity Hall, where the brethren of Ruahine

entertained their guests. R.W. Bro. Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M. of the Hawkes Bay District, was amongst those

present at the gathering. .Lodge Pakama, No. 319, at the age of 10 months, is a very healthy and robust

infant.

The 57th Installation meeting of Lodge Rawhiti, No. 66, was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Dannevirke, on

28th May. R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., conducted the ceremony, and he was ably assisted by a

large number of past and present G.L. officers. There was a very fire and representative attendance of

members of the Hawkes Bay and other Districts. Bro. Simon Mackenzie, S.W., was installed as Master and

addressed by R.W. Bro. T. Hobson, P.D.G.M. The Wardens were addressed by W. Bro. R.. W, Carpenter,

P.G.D., and the Address to the Brethren was delivered by R.W. Bro. A. W. Parkinson, P.Prov.G.M. It was

notable that the Working Tools of the Several Degrees were presented by W. Bro. D. Mackenzie and W. Bro,

Jas. Mackenzie, P.Ms. of Rawhiti Lodge, and W. Bro. W, G. Mackenzie, Master of Bedford Lodge, No.

25—a1l blood brothers of the newly-installed Master. The refectory proceedings were held in the Concert

Chamber of the-Town Hall, where an enjoyable time was spent, the customary toasts being duly honoured.

—————————

TARANAKI NOTES.

——<>——

The Taranaki Lodge of Research is doing good work amongst the Craft Lodges of the Province. They

recently paid a visit to Lodge Kaponga. The W.M.. V.W. Bro. Niblock, was unable to make the trip, and the

party was under the leadership of its S.W., W. Bro. D. G. Wilson. W. Bro. Veale gave a talk on "The Hidden

Mysteries of Nature and Science." Another W. Bro. gave a talk on "Masonic Etiquette."

Lodge Kaporiga "raised" a candidate at their last meeting and another F.C. is awaiting "raising."

Stratford Lodge, No. 75, has now five EAs, awaiting advancement, On 28th May a visit was paid to

Ngamotu Lodge (New Plymouth), taking with them a F.C. who has been away at sea and has been unable to

take his Third Degree. The W.M. and officers of Ngamiotu kindly undertook the work of "raising" this

brother, Eighteen brethren accompanied him. W. Bro. H. D. Caplen, of Hawera, who is the Candidate's

uncle, also made the journey. On this occasion Ngamotu worked a "double" Third, having a candidate of

their own to "put through," the ceremony being conducted by the P.Ms. with W. Bro. H. W. Lacey in the

chair.

Mt. Egmont Lodge, E.C., received a visit from Hinemoa Lodge, S.C., on 11th June, when the officers and

members of that. Lodge assisted in working a Third Degree. Mt. Egmont Lodge has now a considerable

amount of work on hand, truly a busy time ahead.

Hawera Lodge, No. 34, at its last meeting worked a Third Degree.

Bro. T. C. Hobbs, S.W., was installed as W.M. of Taranaki Lodge, No. 240, at its last meeting. He has three

E.As. awaiting "passing," one "raising," and also one "first notice," so no fear of unemployment.

The Installation meeting of the Donald McLean Lodge, No. 1646, E.C., was held at Waitara on Saturday, 7th

June, a very large attendance being present. The Worshipful Master, W. Bro. J. A. Budden, installed his

successor, Bro. T. E. Astwood, S.W., into the Chair, The newly-installed Master invested his officers in a

most efficient manner and delivered a short but interesting address at the conclusion of the ceremonies. W.

Bro. Herbert Joll, installed in 1908, the oldest, Past Master of the Lodge, travelled all the way from Auckland

to attend, For many years he had held the office of Organist, but then relinquished it in favour of his nephew,

W. Bro. W. A. Joll. Among those present were officers of the Prov.G.L. of Ireland., and many W.Ms. and

brethren from the neighbouring Lodges. The Dist.G.M. for Wellington. R.W. Bro. J, W. Jack, attended and

addressed the brethren. It being his last official visit, he took the opportunity to present his framed

photograph to the Lodge. The refectory proceedings were not as bright as usual on account of the Lodge

being in mourning owing to the recent death of the M.W. Grand Master, the Earl of Harewood. With Sir

Donald McLean's natural bent for hospitality, the brethren sat down, not to the usual supper, but a regular

three-course dinner, to which all present did ample justice. The Worshipful Master made very kindly

references to the retiring Dist.G.M. in proposing his toast. This Lodge, now in its 71st year, is strong and

virile and is doing good work in the district.

—————————

RUAPEHU NOTES.

——<>——

At the annual Installation of the Ohakea Services Lodge, No. 309, Bro. A. W. Dingle was installed as W.M.

by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M. The most of the work was carried out by Past Masters of the Lodge.

There was an excellent attendance of Grand Lodge officers and visitors, who were suitably entertained in the

refectory.

Lodge Te Awahou, No. 133, Foxton, has a new Master in the person of W. Bro. G, B. Cull. R.W. Bro. J. A.

Nash, Prov.G.M., once again carried out the ceremony, this being the thirty-second Master of this Lodge to

be installed by him A large number of visitors, including Grand 'Lodge officers, were .present to enjoy the

ceremony and to wish the newly-installed W.M. every success.

Bro. D. J. Pryde was installed as W.M. of Lodge Manchester, No 287, by the Prov.G.M. on 27th May, the

assisting officers being Past Masters of the Lodge. There was a particularly large attendance, no fewer than

67 being present at the Board of Installed Masters,

The notice paper of Lodge Awatea, No. 258, makes interesting reading this month—four fraternal visits, four

Installations, and one ladies' evening, all within five weeks. There is no doubt the W.M., W. Bro. Leech, is

doing his share towards keeping Awatea on the map.

Lodge Rongotea,. No. 146, has lost two very highly-esteemed Past Masters, W. Bros. A, H. Burgess and H.

V. Caverhill having been called to the Grand Lodge above. These two keen and enthusiastic members of the

Lodge will be sadly missed, and the brethren throughout the territory extend their sympathy to the relatives

and the members of Rongotea.

The brothers Hopwood, F. B. and N. S., were "raised" in the Manawatu Kil. Lodge, No 47, by the W.M., W.

Bro. T. S. R. Taylor, at the June meeting, which was a unique occasion and attracted a large number of

members and visitors.

The 5th of June will be a well-remembered date by an old Masonic family in the Manawatu. On this date the

two sons of W. Bro. S. W. Oliver, P.G.S., took their Third Degree, the ceremony being conducted by their

father. The candidates. in addition to the unusual ceremony, had the privilege of extending to their parents

congratulations on the celebration Of their 29th wedding anniversary, and, to crown all, the wife of Bro,

Maurice Oliver, .one of the candidates, presented him with a daughter on the same day. No, wonder W. Bro.

"Bill" Oliver was inundated with congratulations.

—————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

——<>——

The Installation of Bro, H. W. Ashley as Master of Lodge Southern Cross. No. 9, and the investiture of

officers was carried out on 5th June in the presence of a large gathering of members and visitors. The

ceremony was ably carried out by R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., assisted by Grand Lodge officers.

R.W. Bro, J. M. Kennedy, District G.M., Scottish Constitution, delivered the Address to the Master, The

Wardens were invested and addressed by R.W. Bro. Alex. Derbie, D.G.M., and R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson,

P.Prov.G.M.; the brethren being addressed by M.W, Bro, T. M. Rankin, P. Pro G.M. V.W. Bro, H. J. J.

Pierce, G.D:C., was presented at this meeting with a handsome Secretary's Jewel as an expression of esteem

for faithful and efficient service rendered as Secretary over a period of 15 years.

R.E. Comp. G. H. Brown, Grand Supt., accompanied by several Grand Chapter officers, also V.E. Comp. A.

F. R. Crawford, 1st Prin., Southern Cross Chapter, No. 3, and a good following of Companions, attended the

June Convocation of Huiroa Chapter, No. 47 (Gore), and witnessed a splendid working of the Royal Arch

Degree by V.E. Comp. R. W. Jones and officers. V.E. Comp. H. Macgibbon, who was unable to attend the

Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter, was invested as 3rd Grand Soj. by the Grand Supt.

The Installation of Bro. W. J. Spittle as Master of Lodge Waikaka, No. 151, was held on 26th May and

attracted a splendid attendance of members and visitors. The- ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. J. D.

Campbell, Prov. G.M., and his officers. The Master was addressed by the Inst. Officer, and the Wardens

were invested by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M., and addressed by V.W. Bro. A. L. Dolamore, G,Lect.

The Address to the Brethren was given by R.W. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, P.G.W. After the ceremony a splendid

banquet was held in the Public Hall, at which the ladies, in accordance with age-long custom in this Lodge,

were present.

Bro. J. A. Sangster, who has been on active service for a long period of years and who was a prisoner of war

for several years, recently returned to Invercargill and received a hearty welcome at Lodge St. John, No. 94,

and Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, No. 3.

Ill. Bro. Wm. Robison, Grand Com. Zealandia Consistory, together with several Invercargill members,

journeyed to Dunedin to attend the recent half-yearly meeting of that unit of the Craft. Four well-known

members of the Craft were admitted to this exalted degree.

W. Bro. Wm. Bell, the newly-installed Master of The Lodge of Remembrance, No. 318, and his officers

made an excellent job of the First Degree at his first meeting in May. This was followed by a good "Second"

last month.

Ill. Comp. B, J'. Perkins, T.I.M., and Officers of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, initiated three

members in an impressive manner at a meeting held at Invercargill in June.

V.W. Bro. Rev. Powell, P.G.Chap., who has been stationed at Gore for a number of years, has received an

appointment outside the Southland district.

V.W. Bro. A. L. Dolamore, G.Lect., has in recent months delivered several most instructive and interesting

lectures at various Eastern District' Lodges.

A handsome contribution of £1000 has been made to the Invercargill Freemasons' Hall Company from the

estate of the late W. Bro, Peter Hamilton, of Lodge Tuatapere, .No: 210.

The Past Principals of Huiroa RA. Chapter, No. 47, with V.E, Comp, Geo. McLeod in the chair, will conduct

the ceremonial work at the July meeting.

The Lodge of Remembrance, No. 318 (the Service Lodge of the Southland District) is preparing for a special

Service. Night to be held in the Invercargill Temple in August. Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, No. 3, held an

emergency convocation on .17th June, when the ceremony was conducted by V.E. Comp. Crawford and his

officers. The Past Principals will work the August convocation.

Lodge Waikaka, No. 151, is anxiously looking forward to the day when building restrictions are relaxed to

enable them to build a new Temple.

W. Bro. Wm. Neiman, P.Asst.G.D.C., who recently returned from a visit to Australia as a representative of

the N.Z. Expeditionary Force at the Australian Anzac Parade at Adelaide, delighted the members of Lodge

Victoria, No. 147, with a mast instructive and interesting address at one of their recent meetings.

The death occurred at Dunedin a short time ago of W. Bro. Sam Griffiths, who at one time was an

enthusiastic worker in Lodge Taringatura, No. 100. Bro. W. L. Taylor another old member of Southern Cross

R.A. Chapter, No 3, also answered a call to the Grand Lodge above.

Prior to vacating the chair of Master, W. Bro D. T Miller and officers of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9,

together with a number of brethren, paid an official visit to Lodge Ionic, No. 191 (Green Island, Dunedin),

on 17th May and conducted the ceremonial' work of "Raising."

R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., accompanied by a good following of G.L. officers, visited Bluff on

21st June and conducted the annual Installation meeting of Lodge Fortitude, No. 64. There was an excellent

attendance of members and visitors.

Bro. W. D. Rawlinson, at one time a member of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137, and now resident in the Nelson

district, is now W.M. of Lodge Forest, No. 116, Wakefield.

By the recent death of W. Bro. Angus Henderson, P.M. Lodge Victoria, No. 147, the Craft has lost a most

valued member, a good citizen, and a distinguished officer of the Police Force. Our late brother, after leaving

Invercargill several years ago, held several responsible appointments in northern centres, and shortly before

his death received promotion to Dunedin.

V.W. Bro. Bates, a prominent member of the Irish Constitution, recently visited Invercargill and attended the

May meeting of the Lodge of Remembrance.

—————————

OTAGO NOTES.

——<>——

On 9th May R.W. Bro. H. Archbold, Prov.G.M., accompanied by several calibers of G.L., journeyed to

South Otago to attend two Installation meetings. The first was that of Lodge Clinton, No. 183, where Bro. H.

Roxburgh was installed as Master in the presence of a large gathering of brethren and visitors. It was a

highly successful meeting and the refectory arrangements were greatly appreciated by all. At Tapanui, too,

the G.L. party was very cordially welcomed by the brethren of that district. In the evening the meeting was

held in the Temple, where a large crowd assembled, visitors coming from far and near. The ceremony of

Installing Bro. J. E. Gibson as Master of Lodge Hercules, No. 36, was conducted by the Prov.G.M., assisted

by his G.L. officers. Here, too, the visitors were lavishly entertained in the refectory.

On 14th May Bro. C. G. L. Jones was installed as Master of Lodge Waitaki, No. 11, by the Prov.G.M.,

assisted mainly by G.L, officers residing in the North Otago District. The spacious Temple was well filled

with brethren and visitors from all parts of the district An excellent supper, at which the usual toasts were

honoured, concluded a most satisfactory meeting.

Lodge Haeremai, No. 155, held its Installation meeting in the Masonic Temple, King Street, on 19th May,

when Bro. A. H. Williams was Installed, as Master for the ensuing year.

The Installation.meeting of Lodge Koputai, No. 239, was held at Port Chalmers, when Bro. F. J. Hill was

installed as Master of the Lodge in the presence of a good muster. In the absence of R.W. Bro. Archbold, at

present on his way to Australia, the ceremony was conducted by M.W. Bro. W. Lishner, P.G.M., ably

assisted by G.L. officers. Bro. Hill met with a serious accident which kept him in hospital for live months,

and the brethren generally are quite pleased that he has recovered sufficiently, although still showing signs of

obvious injury, to be Installed as Master of his Lodge.

On 17th May W. Bro. T. R. Evans, W.M. of Lodge Otago Kil., No. 143, accompanied by a large number of

brethren, paid an official visit to Lodge Clutha, No. 14, and were most cordially welcomed by the South

Otago brethren. The work of the Third Degree was impressively carried out by the visitors, two brethren

being "raised." The Dunedin brethren are most appreciative of the splendid hospitality extended to them.

The newly-installed Master of Lodge Haeremai, No. 155, and a good team of officers and members paid a

visit to Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99, Waimate, and conducted the ceremony of "raising" a brother to the

Third Degree. They were cordially welcomed and, lavishly entertained by the Waimate brethren and express

their thanks to all who assisted in making the weekend so very enjoyable.

The regular meeting of Hiram Lodge, No. 46, was particularly well attended, the occasion being a visit by

Lodge Ionic, No, 191, whose Master, W. Bro. Dryden, was attended by about thirty members of his Lodge.

The ceremonial work was conducted by W. Bro. Dryden, assisted by his P.Ms. and officers, and was carried

out in an exemplary manner which gave pleasure to everybody present.

The May meeting of The Lodge of Research, No. 161, was a marked success. The attendance was excellent,

one of the largest for some time. The speaker was V.W. Bro. W. A. Harlow, P.D.C., of Wellington, formerly

of Otago Central District, who gave an interesting and instructive address on Masonic Clubs formed in the

Pacific during the war period. The formations, functions and activities of these Clubs were fully explained

and the value of such organisations to Freemasons generally was duly stressed. At the conclusion of his

address, V.W. Bro. Harlow was thanked by the W.M., V.W. Bro. Martin, P.G.L., who voiced the

appreciation of all present for a very fine effort.

—————————

CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

——<>——

Lodge Unanimity, No. 3, and Lodge Sumner, No. 242, combined in tendering a complimentary social to

R.W. Bro. F. N. Kerr and Mrs. Kerr in the refectory at. Sumner Temple on 24th May to celebrate R.W. Bro.

Kerr's appointment as Prov.G.M. R.W. Bro. Kerr has been a member and Organist of these Lodges for many

years. Vocal items and dancing took place and a very pleasant evening was spent.

St. Augustine R.A. Chapter, No. 1, held its regular convocation on 26th May, when four Companions were

acknowledged, after which V.E. Comp. W. Sherrard gave a lecture entitled "The, Fall of Babylon and the

Return to Jerusalem," which the Comps. present thoroughly appreciated. On 28th May Lodge Concord, No.

39, held its Installation meeting, when R.W. Bro. F. N. Kerr, Prov.G.M., accompanied by a large number of

Grand Lodge and Prov. Grand Lodge officers, past and present, installed Bro. Rev. J. F. Feron as Master and

invested his officers. The Dist. Grand Lodge of Canterbury was represented by the Dist.G.M. and a number

of his officers. There was a very large gathering at this meeting, as W. Bro. Peron is widely known in

Canterbury.

On 30th May the St. Augustine Cryptic Council, No. 1, of Royal and Select Masters, held their quarterly

convocation, when the Installation of Ill. Comp. F. A. Shanks as T.LM. by P.T.I.M. E. P. C. Wright, of the

Canterbury Kil. Cryptic Council, No. 316, and the investiture of his officers by P.T.I.M. C. Shemuda, of the

same Council, was conducted.

Lodge Unanimity, No. 3, held its regular meeting on 3rd June, when a First Degree was worked.

Civic Lodge, No. 157, held its meeting on 3rd June and having tyled early and dealt with general business

only, the W.M. and brethren paid a visit to the Lincoln Lodge, No. 33, where a very pleasant evening was

spent.

On 5th June Crown Lodge held its regular meeting, and immediately urgent business was dealt with the

Lodge was closed and the W.M. and officers and brethren paid their biennial visit to Southern Cross Lodge,

No. 6, where the Second Degree was exemplified on two brethren of the Crown Lodge.

The United Forces Lodge, No. 245, had a record gathering at their meeting on. 7th June, the occasion being

their annual Solders' Night, the work being to "Pass" two brethren, which was done in their usual efficient

manner. An early adjournment was made to the refectory, where the brethren, after the repast, were

entertained with several sketches and vocal items, which were very enjoyable, and humorous, the evening

being all too short.

Oh 10th June Lodge Shirley, No. 263, held is meeting, when a brother was "raised."

Lodge Doric, No. 275, held its Installation on 12th June, when Bro. N. G. Milne was installed W.M. by R.W.

Bro. F. N. Kerr, Prov.G.M., assisted by G.L. and Prov.G.L. officers, past and present.

Corinthian Lodge, No. 321, had a most successful meeting, when a record attendance was present, including

the W.Ms. of nine sister Lodges. The occasion was the first P.Ms. night, the occupant of the chair being

R.W. pro, A. J. Jones, who was honoured by a visit from the 1942-3 Group of P.Ms. and also the 1945 Group

of Prov. Grand Officers. The ceremony was a double initiation and was conducted in a most impressive

manner; The address given by R.W. Bro. Jones to the candidates, before retiring, was unusual but instructive.

After the business of the evening was concluded W. Bro. Williams, W.M, presented R.W. Bro. Jones with a

Foundation Member's Jewel, with monogram and suitably inscribed, R.W. Bro. Jones at the request of the

W.M., then presented W. Bro. A, S. Ward, the first Tyler, who has rendered valuable service to the new

Lodge, with a Founder's Jewel as a token of appreciation.

—————————

NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

——<>——

Acacia, No. 209, after a very busy period of degree work, is having a lull and could help a sister Lodge out if

a candidate is available. The Master, W. Bro. Harold Main, has made quite a number of visits and requests

his brethren to keep the Kaikoura visit in mind.

Amuri, No. 184, worked an Initiation at its last meeting. W. Bro. Dunbar and his officers attended the annual

church parade at St. John's recently when the church was crowded.

Tawera Lodge, No. 188, had a very fine meeting when they "passed" two candidates for Ashley Lodge. W.

Bro. Reed thanked W. Bro. Stanton for his kindness and assistance.

Ashley Lodge, No. 28, has a considerable amount of degree work on hand at present, and W. Bro. Stanton

also anticipates making a number of visits.

Cheviot Lodge, No. 124, held a very successful meeting recently when W. Bro. Abernethy and his officers

initiated a candidate.

W. Bro. Briggs; W.M, of Mairaki Lodge, No, 131, and his officers "raised" two brethren of Doric Lodge at

their last meeting, the ceremony being performed in an impressive manner.

The June meeting of Southern Cross Lodge, No. 6, must have set a record for the number of members and

visitors in attendance, well over 100 brethren signing the attendance book. It was the occasion of the official

visit and exchange of gavels with the Crown Lodge, No. 138, but there were also present the W.Ms, and

brethren of .Robert Burns, Concord, and Ahurewa Lodges, as well as a number of brethren from other parts

of the District. Two candidates, were "passed," the ceremonial work being exemplified by the W.M. and

officers of the Crown Lodge.

The refectory proceedings were enlivened by vocal and instrumental items by Southern Cross brethren, and

W. Bro. E. Rice, Master of Southern Cross, presented his shillelagh to W. Bro. J. W, Orr, W.M. of the

Crown Lodge, expressing the hope that he would put it to good use if attacked by any "cowans and intruders"

upon his homeward journey, and that with it he would be enabled to keep order among his own brethren

when Southern Cross visits the Crown Lodge in 1948.

—————————

NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

——<>——

The past month has witnessed a period of great activity throughout the Territory, and Grand Lodge Officers

have, been kept particularly busy attending official functions. Lodge Awatere, No. 292, held its Installation

ceremony on 17th May, when R.W. Bro. F. Mogridge, Prov.G.M., presided over an excellent attendance,

including representatives from Lodges throughout the District. The presiding officer was well supported

during the ceremony by G.L. officers and the W.Ms. of adjacent Lodges, and the entire ceremony was

conducted in a most satisfactory manner. Bro. J. J. Dick was installed as W.M., and he will be supported by

W. Bro, D. G. Fleming as S.W., Bro. M. E. Hammond as J.W., with W. Bro. G. A. Gunn as Secretary.

Following the ceremony, R.W. Bro. Girllng invested W. Bro. D. F. Fleming P.G.S. with the appropriate

collar for the honorary rank of .P.G.D., which had been approved by G.L. in recognition of his long and

faithful service to Freemasonry. The proceedings in the refectory were of a very happy nature and the

visitors were entertained with liberal hospitality by the Awatere brethren.

The next Installation was Victory Lodge, No. 40, which took place on 24th May, when V.W. Bro. Craighead,

Asst. Prov.G.M., presided over a large attendance representing practically every Lodge in the Territory. Bro.

Charles W. Cannington, a brother of V.W. Bro. Syd. Cannington, P.G.Lec., was installed as W.M., and his

principal officers will be Bro. H. Pierce, S.W.; Bro. B. J. Champtaloup, LW.; and V.W. Bro. F. J. Lock,

G.D.C., Secretary. Special mention was made of the attendance of R.W. Bro. Boustridge. P.Prov.G.M.,

whose subsequent remarks in the refectory, coupled with those delivered by R.W. Bro. Girling, in response

to the toast proposed by R.W, Bro. Baird, were greatly appreciated. The newly-installed Master also greatly

impressed with his speech to the brethren; and in fact the whole evening, both in the Lodge and in the

refectory, was an inspiration.

The May meeting of Lodge Nelson, No. 288, attracted considerable interest, all District Lodges being

represented, the occasion being the delivery of the First Degree Lecture in seven sections, 30 members of the

Lodge participating in the ceremony, which was conducted in .a smooth manner and indicated conscientious

rehearsal.

There was a Third Degree working at the meeting of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, on 27th May. W. Bro. Frank

Nosworthy received congratulations from the W.M. and brethren upon receipt of advice from G.L. that he

had been awarded the Fifty Years' Service Badge. Next month the Lodge will conduct its 100th Lodge of

Instruction, at which an abbreviated form of Installation Ceremony will he conducted and W. Bro. S. I.

Vercoe will deliver a short history.

Southern Star Lodge, No, 735, B.C., worked a double Third at its May meeting; which was largely attended

and included an official visit from Lodge Nelson.

R.W. Bro. Mogridge, Prov.G.M., accompanied by some of his officers, paid an official visit to Lodge

Motueka, No. 117, at their meeting on 28th May, when a candidate was initiated. The address delivered by

the Prov.G,M. to the candidate was greatly appreciated.

It was pleasing to see W. Bro. Cattier, P.Asst.G.D.C., in attendance at the Victory Lodge Installation looking

fit and well,

An Emergency Convocation of the Marlborough R.A. Chapter, No. 14, was held on the 31at May to receive

the First Principal of Waitaki Kil. Chapter, No. 8, Oamaru, together with his officers and Companions, A

member of the Marlborough Chapter was Exalted, the Degree work being carried out in a highly satisfactory

manner by the Companions of Waitaki Chapter.

On the following Monday., 2nd June, there was a meeting of the Marlborough Chapter Rose Croix, No. 206,

when a candidate was "Perfected." The Marlborough Companions excelled themselves in entertaining the

visitors, both on the Sunday and Monday, Sunday being occupied with a motor drive round the Marlborough

district, whilst Monday, which was a glorious day, was spent in the Marlborough Sounds, The visitors left

with regret on Tuesday morning, loud in their praise of the hospitality which they had received.