CAUTION
———<>———

NE of the propositions to which a Master-elect is required to assent just before he is installed into the

Chair of K.S. is this: You promise that no Visitor shall be received into your Lodge without due

examination, and producing proper vouchers of his having been initiated in a regular Lodge." The Master-

elect signifies his assent by the sign of Fidelity. Not more than a few minutes later, at the close of the Board

of Installed Masters, he sees all the Brethren who have left the Lodge return to it, and often enough their

number is swollen by the addition of Brethren who have only just arrived, have put on their aprons, signed

the book, and walked in unchallenged. Not long after the newly-installed Master hears these words addressed

to his newly-invested Tyler: "I therefore place in your hands this S., to enable you to keep off all intruders

and C . . . ns to Masonry, and suffer none to pass but such as are duly qualified. From your well-known zeal I

feel sure that the confidence which the Brn. have shown by your election will not be misplaced."

It is as well that the Brn. do not ask a very high standard, or many Masters and many Tylers would blush as

they heard the words addressed to them.

Slackness and neglect are not things which can be pinned down to a few individuals. If they are

countenanced and tolerated, acquiesced in by dignitaries and boards from year to year, it is no good trying to

assign blame. It is ourselves who are to blame: It is the whole Craft in the particular Territory.

Recently attention was drawn to this matter in a paper read before Research Lodge of Wellington, No. 194,

entitled "Notes on the Craft in Australia." These are the author's words:

"Visitors are admitted one at a time. The visitor signs a card giving the name of the Brother vouching for

him. This card is handed to the I.G., who announces to the J.W. the name of the visitor and vouching

member. The J.W. calls on the vouching Brother to respond, and if all is in order, the visitor is then

admitted—by himself.

"This procedure takes up a lot of time, especially at Installations, but the Brethren do not seem to mind this,

and say that it is better to act so than to take the risk of admitting an unauthorised person with a number of

'visiting Brethren duly vouched for'.

"At Installations, at any rate in the large cities, one must be in possession of a special invitation card counter-

signed by a Brother of the Lodge before he is admitted to the refectory proceedings. I noted at one

Installation, and this is, I believe, the usual custom, that when the Brethren are to reassemble in the Lodge

after the closing of the B. of I.M.. each one must give the I.G. in a whisper the password of the Third Degree

before he is admitted."

W. Bro. N. S. Lawn, J.W. of the Lodge, and the author of the paper, contented himself with observing: "This

is, I think, a wise precaution, but possibly more necessary in large cities where so many strangers and strange

characters abound." We may be allowed to make the somewhat stronger comment that the practice of

allowing Brethren to enter the Lodge unchallenged and sometimes unidentified is a disgrace to the Craft, one

for which we are all in some measure to blame, and something which ought to be put right, in terms of the

Ancient Charge, at the earliest possible moment. It may not be necessary to adopt the same means as those in

force in Australia, but some measures which will restore the show of secrecy and the duties of Tyler to more

than the present farcical level should assuredly be taken.

Part of the trouble no doubt lies in the inordinate amount of visiting which takes place on the occasion of

Installation meetings: we have had occasion to refer to this before. Part, possibly, may be due to the fantastic

length of the ceremonial work on the occasion of an Installation and Investiture. The English Constitution

practice of installing the Master in the afternoon, calling off, then calling on again for the Investiture in the

evening has a lot to commend it. Brethren attending Installations at a distance from their homes must leave

their work very early if they are to dress at home and eat dinner in the normal way, and there is no reason

why they should not. Installations starting at 6.0 or 6.30 p.m. and extending, with refectory proceedings, far

into the night, seem sometimes more in the nature of an endurance test than a Masonic observance. If these

O

minor matters are responsible for leading us into such major errors as want of caution in a matter so material

as to form the subject of one of the Ancient Charges, then it is surely time we took stock of ourselves, and of

our duty to the past, present, and future Craft.

————————

CONSTITUTION AND DEDICATION OF SANDFORD ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER, No. 89.

———<>———

There was a large and fully representative gathering of Royal Arch Companions at Taumarunui on 17th

March to witness the Constitution and Dedication of a new Royal Arch Chapter, named after M.E.

Companion W. H. Sandford, Past First Grand Principal, to commemorate his most impressive record of

service to Royal Arch Freemasonry in general, and to the Ruapehu District in particular.

The ceremony was conducted by M.E. Comp. J. Christoffel, First Grand Principal Z., who had the support of

R.E. Comps. W. A. Waters, Second Grand Principal H., N. B. Spencer, Third Grand Principal J., E. C.

Cannons, Grand Scribe E., and L. L. Hills, Chairman of Supreme Committee.

The presenting officers were: M.E. Comp. J. Hobson, P.G.Z. (corn); W. H. Sandford, P.G.Z. (wine); F. J.

Rea, P.G.Z. (oil); and R.E. Comp. F. A. Pickett, P.G.H. (salt). The duties of Grand Director of Ceremonies

were ably discharged by V.E. Comp. R. B. Davies, P.G.D.C., and V.E. Comp. P. A. Kusabs, P.G.Chanc.,

presided at the organ. R.E. Comp. C. N. O'Neill, G.Lec., delivered a most interesting and inspiring lecture at

the close of the Consecration ceremony.

The Installation of the Principals and Investiture of the officers of the Chapter was presided over by R.E.

Comp. L. Wood, G.Supt. of the Ruapehu District, who enthroned V.E. Comp. G. 0. Stewart as First Principal

Z. R.E. Comps. J. N. Anderson, P.G. Supt., and F. J. Young, G,Supt., both of the Taranaki District, installed

respectively E. Comp. O. C. Finer as Second Principal H. and E. Comp. A. Wilson as Third Principal J. The

Addresses to the three Principals were delivered by R.E. Comp. W. H. Cannan, P.G.Supt.; V.E. Comp. A.

Ferguson, P.G.Soj.; and R.E. Comp. G. Jamieson, P.G.J. A special Address to the First Principal was given

by R.E. Comp. L. N. Ritchie, P.G.J.

The investiture of the officers was carried out by V.E. Comp. D. H. McLean, P.Z. The Address to the Office-

bearers was delivered by V.E. Comp. I. F. E. Carter, P.Z., and the Companions were addressed by R.E.

Comp. L. L. Hills, Chairman of Supreme Committee.

Sandford Chapter commences its activities in good heart, with all its furnishing and equipment provided by

its members free of debt, with great enthusiasm, and with love for the honoured name it bears. Under such

circumstances its future prosperity should be assured.

The Scribe E. of the new Chapter is E. Comp. A. Mitchell, whose address is Owhango.

————————

MORE COMFORT IN OUR LODGE ROOMS.

——<>——

(By R.W. Bro. W. A. Waters, P.G.W., GIL)

————

One matter that is usually neglected in our Lodgerooms is the standard of comfort. For the winter months of

the year, the conditions are often such that many members prefer to stay at home by their own firesides,

rather than endure the chilly atmosphere of the Lodge; while, during the summer, the heat and vitiated air

conditions are often well nigh intolerable.

One might also observe that the above remarks equally apply to many other public buildings, where the

heating and ventilation systems are of a very low order. In fact, most of the theatres and halls in New

Zealand would be refused a licence in some overseas countries, where there are strict Public Health laws

relating to the amount of fresh air to be supplied per person per hour, and-the temperature and humidity

which must be maintained.

The ventilation of a Lodgeroom is a problem that is made more difficult to achieve by natural means, owing

to the absence of windows, and the necessity to prevent the escape of sound. Often some method of

ventilation is provided or assumed that is useless in practice. An old system, which is sometimes seen in

modern buildings, is to admit fresh air through vents about eight feet above the floor level, and discharge the

heated air through vents in the ceiling. This system is out of date. It may have had some virtue when gas

lighting was in use, when the heat arising from gas lamps concentrated under a large ceiling vent was relied

upon to move the air upwards and hope for the best.

Modern standards require that thirty cubic feet of fresh air should be admitted per person per minute, and the

only satisfactory system of ventilation for a Lodgeroom is forced circulation by means of an electric fan.

There are two general systems in use; which are, either to suck the air out from vents in the floor and admit

the fresh air through the ceiling, or to reverse the process and admit the cold air through vents in the floor.

The latter is preferable owing to the tendency of heated air to rise. Unless the floor and ducts are kept clean,

dust is likely to be sucked up into the air stream, but in practice this objection is not serious. What is

advisable, however, is to use a large number of floor vents, to ensure good distribution of the fresh air and

reduce the feeling of draughts.

When a large number of persons are congregated in a room where the ventilation is inadequate the air

becomes saturated, or nearly so, in the hot weather. The human body relies on the evaporation of perspiration

to keep the body cool, and in saturated air this process is retarded.

The feeling of comfort depends not only on the temperature, but also on the relative humidity. For example,

when the air is saturated with moisture or 100 per cent. relative humidity, then 88 degrees Fahrenheit is

about the limit that can be endured.

In the winter time we have the reverse conditions, and the building is usually too cold for comfort. The body

of a person at rest in a cool room tends to get lower in temperature, owing to the absence of exercise, and

chills and colds are the result. A building that is only used occasionally requires a large amount pf heat to

bring it up to the comfort level of 68 deg. Fahr., as the walls and ceiling .absorb so much heat in the warming

up process.

When the outside air is at 32deg. Fahr., or freezing point, and this air is heated to 70deg. Fahr. without the

addition of any more moisture, then the relative humidity becomes 15.5 per cent., which is a drier air than

any known climate in the world! It is this extreme dryness of the air in the winter time that produces such

discomforts as thirst, parched throat, irritation of nostrils, lassitude and headache. It is also now agreed to be

a contributing cause of many throat and pulmonary diseases.

The modern electric radiator merely heats the room and dries the air; and, generally, owing to the inadequate

amount of heat available, ventilation is completely stopped. This condition not only occurs in our

Lodgerooms, but in thousands of offices in New Zealand, where the ventilation, heating, and relative

humidity are all below the standard of comfort and good health requirements.

While the matter of installation of a complete air conditioning equipment will produce agreeable conditions

in both summer and winter, it is too costly to apply in buildings that are used only occasionally; but there is

no excuse for the stifling heat and lack of ventilation that has often to be endured at large meetings. The cost

of effecting a vast improvement in ventilation is usually not a big sum.

————————

LODGE AWATEA, No. 258, INSTALLATION MEETING.

——<>——

What must surely be considered unique in the annals of Lodges outside the main centres occurred when

Lodge Awatea, No. 258, Palmerston North, celebrated its 27th Installation Meeting on 31st March, 44 G.L.

Officers being present, together with W.Ms., officers, and brethren from all parts of the southern portion of

the North Island.

The M.W. the Grand Master (KW. Bro. Edward J. Guiness) graced the assembly with his presence, and, as

usual, charmed the brethren with his unassuming and kindly manner. He was accompanied by practically the

whole of the executive officers of Grand Lodge, including the Grand Treasurer, the President of the Board of

General Purposes, the President of the Board of Benevolence, and the Grand Secretary. R.W. Bro. Charles N.

Cathie, Prov. G.M., Wellington District, was also present, and the M.W. the Grand Master, who had come,

as he said, more or less unofficially, conferred on R.W. Bro. Cathie the privilege of entering the Lodge

accompanied by Grand Officers of the Wellington District. They were received by R.W. Bro. F. C. Jannings,

Prov.G.M., Ruapehu District, who expressed his own pleasure and the gratification of the brethren of Lodge

Awatea at such a large and representative attendance of Grand Lodge.

The ceremony of installing Bro. Ernest Boniface, S.W., into the chair of K.S. and the investiture of his

officers was conducted by R.W. Bro. F. C. Jannings, Prov.G.M., in his customary dignified manner, assisted

by Grand Lodge Officers.

On behalf of the brethren R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, P.D.G.M., presented to the retiring Master (W. Bro. H.

Brooks) a handsome P.M.'s Jewel and a bound copy of the transactions of the Lodge during his term of

office, and congratulated him on a very successful year of office.

In the refectory the M.W. Grand Master again showed his magnanimity by calling on R.W. Bro. C. N.

Cathie, Prov.G.M. Wellington District, to supplement his Toast, and at the same time allowing the Executive

Officers of G.L. to explain to the brethren some of the many duties Grand Officers are expected to perform.

V.W. Bro. Ian T. Cook, G.T., very clearly and concisely explained the financial angle and the need for the

increase in Lodge dues to Grand Lodge.

V.W. Bro. L. A. McAlister, Pres.Bd.G.P., in his usual happy style, gave a comprehensive address on the

working of the Board and the long hours required in attending to its business.

V.W. Bro. R. B. Magee, Pres.Bd.Ben., quoted many cases of brethren and their families who had been

assisted by the Board of Benevolence, which proved interesting, and his stirring appeal on behalf of the W.O.

and A.M.'s Fund will surely bear fruit.

Altogether the meeting was one of the happiest and most interesting held in the District, and the proceedings

will remain in the memory of those fortunate enough to be present for many years to come.

————————

THE SYMBOLISM OF THE THREE DEGREES.

——<>——

(By W. Bro. H. T. Garde, B.E., P.M., Lake Bonney.)

————

We are told in the first T.B. that every character and emblem displayed in the Lodge serves to inculcate the

principles of piety and virtue and is designed to convey a deep symbolic lesson. Many of us, however, fail to

grasp the full significance of this symbolism and as a consequence Freemasonry is not appreciated to its

fullest extent.

It has often been said that a symbol is a visible representation of some object employed to convey a certain

idea, and Dr. Wm. Stukeley has said that "The wisdom of all the ancients that has come to our hands is

symbolic."

In the approach to Masonic symbolism it may be broadly asserted that the Mason who knows nothing of our

symbolism knows little of Freemasonry. Further in order to render the lectures in their most impressive form

one must understand their deeper meaning and the symbolism embodied in them.

The ceremonies of Initiation, Passing and Raising contain perfect examples of symbolism, and Freemasonry

as presented in the ritual is an elaborate allegory of human life, both individually and collectively as well as

in its varied aspects of past, present, and future.

Since the Lodge is symbolical of the world and the member the individual, the admission of the candidate

symbolises the entrance of man upon the world's stage of action or in other words, the entrance of the child

into its earthly life.

In the First Degree, having been admitted in a state of helpless ignorance, the candidate undergoes a course

of moral training which begins with the first great lesson, "adoration of and reverence for the Deity." Herein

he is charged never to mention His name except with that awe and reverence which is due from the creature

to his Creator.

Further reference to the moral development of the initiate is made when the V.S.L. is specially recommended

to his most serious contemplation. Therein he is taught the important duties he owes to himself and to his

fellow creatures, and in the last injunction he is urged to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge,

which implies that as he has embarked on the journey of perfecting himself he must make daily progress in

the right direction.

Moreover, as the Lodge is representative of the world, reference to the building of the Temple of K.S. can be

taken as representing man himself, and if a Mason reads his ritual in this way he will discover an entirely

new significance in its teachings, for the building of the Temple is meant to convey the idea of the building

up of the spiritual temple of man's being.

It is in the First Degree that the Deity is referred to as the G.A.O.T.U., and there is a definite reason for so

doing, because this degree represents that period of man's existence in which his moral character is formed

and developed. We think of an architect as one well skilled in the art of construction and as one who works

to a definite plan. Therefore we refer to the Deity in this degree as the G.A. who is shaping our lives and

moral characters according to his prearranged and definite design.

The symbolism of building is further seen when the candidate is placed in the N.E.C., indicating to him that

the foundation stone of his spiritual life has been truly laid and charging him to raise a superstructure upon it,

perfect in its parts and honourable to the builder. The lessons of the First Degree teach us to shape the Rough

Ashlar of our lives to a true die or square, thus rendering us fit to proceed to the next stage for our moral and

spiritual development.

As the First Degree represents a period of moral training fitting the candidate for that which lies beyond, so

the Second Degree represents a period of instruction in the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. The

study of the Liberal Arts and Sciences is therefore recommended to his earnest consideration, especially the

science of Geometry, which is the basis of our art.

The word geometry, literally, means "earth measurement," and W. Bro. Wilmshurst reminds us that the

ancient philosophers in using the word "earth" did not allude to our physical planet but referred to the

substance of which human beings had been created—Mother Earth, from which we have all sprung and to

which we must ultimately return. It is that earth, or fundamental substance, which requires to be measured,

investigated and its nature understood. Geometry therefore, implies self-knowledge, the measuring up or

understanding of our own being. And so Masonry is the science of that supreme knowledge and is rightly

said to be founded on the principles of Geometry as thus defined. Hence we refer to the G.A.O.T.U. as the

Creator who sizes up and measures the fundamental essence of our being.

The symbolism of this degree is still further indicated by the lecture on the W.T., where morality is

symbolised by the square, equality by the level, and uprightness by the plumb rule. So too, the practical use

to which the operative mason puts these tools serves to symbolise the building up of human character.

The two great pillars, also, standing at the entrance of our Temples, admonish us that after a proper moral

training the acquisition of Wisdom is the next necessary preparation for a useful and successful life. So the

candidate in the Second Degree completes his moral and intellectual training, thus fitting himself to enter the

third and highest phase of his Masonic instruction.

As the First and Second Degrees typify the moral and intellectual training of the candidate, so the Third

Degree brings to a climax that elaborate allegory of human life which Freemasonry portrays. It is in this

degree that the Deity is referred to as the Most High, implying that we have reached such a stage of moral

and spiritual rectitude that we are now ready to attain to that eminence which is the highest of our

aspirations.

Special mention must be made of the number seven in this degree because of the prominence it holds in the

ceremony. This number must refer to the exalted and perfected state of the candidate when he becomes a

KM., the seven being considered the number of perfection and completion. We are told that seven Masons

constitute the perfect Lodge, and indeed it is written in the V.S.L. that "God blessed and loved the number

seven more than all the things made under His throne," by which is meant that Man, the seven-fold being, is

the most cherished of all the Creator's works. The world also was created in seven days; light consists of

seven primary colours in combination; the musical scale has seven notes.

In conclusion, attention can be drawn to that perfect example of symbolism in the first seven verses of

Ecclesiastes XII commencing "Remember now thy Creator" and concluding "Then shall the dust return to

the earth as it was and the spirit shall return to God Who gave it."

—"South Australian Freemason."

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

——<>——

(By Bro. R. E. Cross, Reviewer.)

————

TASMANIA-1950.

Half-yearly Communication held in Hobart on the 26th August, 1950, and a Special Meeting held on the

25th September, 1950.

Grand Master (1948-1950): M.W. Bro. Gerald E. Wall.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. H. A. Wilkinson.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. H. G. Salier, P.G.D.

Grand Representative in N.Z.: R.W. Bro. G. F. Allen, P.G.W., Christchurch.

62 Active Lodges. 6675 members, net gain for the half-year 185.

Two new Lodges were consecrated during the period under review.

Since the last Communication Grand Lodge suffered greatly by the passing of six members of Grand Lodge.

The President of the Board of General Purposes said that the loss of M.W. Bro. Dr. Hogg, P.G.M., and M.W.

Bro. John Lord, Pro Grand Master, both of whom had rendered distinguished service over a long period of

years, would be felt in the councils of Grand Lodge for many years to come.

In order to demonstrate the working of the three Degrees according to the manual of procedure, the Board of

General Purposes set up a Lodge of Exemplification. Exemplifications were given in Hobart, Launceston,

and Ulverstone, and on each occasion the Temple was full to capacity.

Lodges were asked to submit ideas and suggestions for alterations to the Manual and these were then

considered by the Manual Committee and finally incorporated into the revised Manual. This revised Manual

of Procedure as drafted and approved by the Board of General Purposes was submitted to, and approved by,

Grand Lodge.

In order to clarify the matter of Grand Lodge nominations and election of Grand Officers, several

amendments to the Constitution were proposed and approved by Grand Lodge. They were merely

"machinery" alterations.

The President of the Board of Benevolence reported that during the six months 20 Widows and Dependants

of Deceased Masons and eight brethren had received help to the extent of £693, compared with £687 for the

corresponding period of the previous year.

The Grand Master gave a survey of the activities of Grand Lodge for the first half of the year. He referred to

his official visit to the Grand Lodge of South Australia to witness the Installation of M.W. Bro. His Honour

Mr. Justice Abbott as Grand Master and to the Grand Lodge of Western Australia on the occasion of their

Golden Jubilee, combined with the Installation of M.W. Bro. Dr. J. D. Battye, C.B.E., as Grand Master, plus

the Seventh Australasian Masonic Conference. This Conference, he said, acted as a magnet, producing a

gathering seldom seen in Australia. He remarked that all the States were well represented and that New

Zealand had also recognised the supreme importance of the occasion and had sent two Delegates. He spoke

enthusiastically of the wonderful reception he had received. MM. Bro. Wall said that matters arising from the

Conference had not been finalised and they would come before Grand Lodge later. "The object of these

Conferences," he said, "is an endeavour to bring about uniformity of Masonic thought and practice

throughout Australasia, while at the same time bringing together for mutual pleasure and understanding

representatives of all the Grand Lodges in this part of the world."

NEW HAMPSHIRE-1950.

161st Annual Communication held on the 17th May, 1950, in the city of Manchester, N.H.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. Reginald E. Goldsmith (elected for a second term).

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. John M. Dresser, P.G.M.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Robert H. Barnard.

Grand Representative in N.Z.: R.W. Bro. A. Bullock, P.Prov.G.M., Hamilton.

81 Lodges, 15,550 members, net gain of 374.

The Annual Communication commenced with the reception of distinguished guests, after which Grand

Lodge was opened in Ample Form. The Grand Master paid fitting tribute to those brethren who had ceased

their labours, and proceeded to give an account of his stewardship. Referring to Masonic Education he said

that it was the intention of Grand Lodge to place before each Lodge and each Brother such information and

enlightenment as it possesses, and which it considers germane to the desires and objectives of Masonry. He

urged all brethren to take full advantage of this source of correct and authentic information which would be

made available to them for consideration and study. By this means it was hoped that every individual would

be aroused to explore the depth, beauty and significance of the degrees as written and exemplified. Attention

was also drawn to the civic and religious obligations of the Fraternity. The Grand Master considered that

their system of Masonic Education should be sufficiently all-embracive to alert them to the aims of their

aggressors. "It should teach us," he said, "to use those working tools, with which we are equipped, in a

practical and efficient manner; to readily recognise those seemingly minor and inconsequential

encroachments upon our personal, civil and religious liberties, for what they are and what they will mean, if

not resisted and silenced."

M.W. Bro. Goldsmith referred at some length to the Grand Masters' Conference held in Washington in

February, 1950. He said that these conferences have a beneficent and definite value to every Jurisdiction

whose representatives attend them and they promote a Fraternal Fellowship to a superior degree. Speaking of

the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association, M.W. Bro. Goldsmith made the following

interesting observations: "This magnificent work of sculpture, by the hand of Bro. Bryant Baker, who is a

member of the Craft in England, is acknowledged to be one of the finest examples of the art in the world. It

cost upwards of ninety thousand dollars and was cast by the Gorham Silver Company, of Providence, R.I.,

who turned out a job 'par excellence.' One cannot view this Memorial, in height equal to a thirty-storey

building, in majestic splendour high above the Potomac, without a sense of pride in the accomplishment of

such a noble undertaking. It is an enduring example of what Freemasonry can easily achieve, when banded

together in a common cause. Countless thousands in the future, from the four corners of our great United

States, will stand in awe and admiration before the Father of our Country, so ably executed in bronze, and

salute him as a Great Man and Mason."

The Reports of the District Deputy Grand Masters indicate that they have all had a busy year of office.

Masonry appears to be thriving throughout the Jurisdiction.

Following the death of the Grand Representative of New Hampshire near the Grand Lodge of Ireland, the

Grand Lodge of New Hampshire was requested to forward to the Grand Lodge of Ireland a list of the Grand

Lodges recognised by the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. The list was supplied and in due course advice

was received to the effect that as New Hampshire recognises the National Grand Lodge of Italy, the Grand

Lodge of Ireland was not prepared to make, sanction or approve a new appointment in their Grand Lodge. It

was made clear that Fraternal Relations were not being severed. The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire does

not appear to have taken any further action in the matter.

The Report of the Superintendent of the New Hampshire Masonic Home shows that at the close of the fiscal

year there were 44 members in the Home-21 men and 23 women, including three married couples. The

average age of members is 79 years.

New Zealand is not included in the Reviews of Sister Grand Lodges.

————

NEW JERSEY-1950.

163rd Annual Communication held in the City of Atlantic City on the 19th and 20th April, 1950.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. William F. House.

Grand Master (elected): M.W. Bro. Franklin E. Pellegrin.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Isaac Cherry.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. L. S. Kruser.

Grand Representative in N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Norman B. Spencer, S.G.W., Auckland.

282 Lodges, 92,375 members, net gain of 2898.

The Grand Secretary reported that the total receipts from all sources during the 12 months under review

amounted to 309,990 dollars. Of this amount approximately 10,000 dollars was paid to the Grand Treasurer

on account of the Masonic Home and Charity Foundation of New Jersey.

Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form and many distinguished guests from other Jurisdictions were

welcomed and received. The Grand Master extended a welcome to all Grand Representatives of Sister

Jurisdictions present, and conveyed to them the best wishes of Grand Lodge.

M.W. Bro. Gray responded on behalf of the Grand Representatives and said that there was a deep

significance in the fact that Representatives, figuratively, if not literally, bind together the nations of the earth

with the belt of Masonry and that they came there representing the near and the far ends of the globe,

delighted to be girt by the Masonic bond of fellowship.

The following extract from the report of the Trustees of the Masonic Home and Charity Foundation of New

Jersey gives a clear picture of the benevolent activities of this Grand Lodge:—"This corporation is the great

heart in the body of New Jersey Masonry. The assertion is ventured that no other line of Masonic endeavour

is as important to you as this great charitable enterprise. A favourite question up in New England about the

value of any project is: 'Is it worth its salt?' Here in New Jersey you can reply to such a question on this

subject that it IS worth not only its salt, but its sugar, too—all the 'Seasoning' your finances can afford. This

heart organ of Jersey Masonry has been beating regularly since its birth one June day in 1898. Into its bosom

has been received in its 52-year existence no less than 1380 persons who have found in the Home at Burling-

ton a real haven in the evening of their lives. Still there at the close of 1949 were 193 of your brothers and

sisters, a capacity-filled quota. Men numbered 71, women 122, and waiting, waiting for perhaps three years

for death to unlock the admitting door were 59 more. It is to that 59 that we direct your chief attention. It

continues to be your chief concern, as well as that of your Trustees."

To provide a home for these 59 people a new infirmary is in the process of being built. Four hundred

thousand dollars have been raised for the purpose. Additional funds are required for equipment, and the

Board is preparing an appeal to the brethren. Not only is home care being provided for the needy by the

brethren of New Jersey, but monthly cash payments are being made to some 200 beneficiaries. The brethren

of New Jersey can well be proud of their charitable work!

The Grand Master gave a full account of his activities during the year. He summed up the condition of the

Craft in New Jersey in the following words: "The Craft in this Jurisdiction at the present time is prosperous,

in peace and harmony, high in morale, and the spirit of enthusiasm and interest is manifest in all sections of

the State."

Neither the Grand Master nor the Grand Master-elect presented a formal Address as we in this Territory are

accustomed to. On behalf of the distinguished guests, M.W. Bro. Roger Keith, Grand Master of the

Commonwealth of Massachusetts, addressed Grand Lodge at length, recounting his recent visit to Scotland.

He mentioned many interesting points connected with Scotland's Masonic background.

Apparently, the Reviews of Sister Grand Lodges published in the Book of Proceedings are not being

sufficiently widely read, and the Committee on Fraternal Relations has in rather strong terms asked for

comment, criticism, or compliment by the brethren.

————

NEW YORK-1950.

169th Annual Communication held in New York City on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of May, 1950.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. Frank M. Totton.

Grand Master (elected): M.W. Bro. Richard A. Rowlands.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. George R. Irving.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Walter F. Blanden.

Grand Representative in N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Prof. B. E. Murphy, P.G.W., Wellington.

1037 Lodges, 294,553 members, net gain of 5322.

In support of the Brotherhood Fund Campaign many members of the Craft broadcast over radio and

television with remarkable results.

During the year a number of new Boy Scout Troops and Chapters of De Molay were started.

Through the good offices of R.W. Bro. Dr. Edward J. Lowy, Past District Deputy Grand Master, the new

Memorial Library at the Pennsylvania Military College in Chester, a non-sectarian institution founded in

1821, will have one of its rooms designated as the "Masonic Room." When the construction work is

completed the room will be dedicated by the brethren of the Grand Lodge of New York. A plaque bearing

the following inscription will then be unveiled: "Brethren of the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of

the State of New York, dedicate this room to the youth of all Nations and origins, as a manifestation of the

universality of Masonry and its precepts of brotherhood."

To give encouragement and assistance to the blind, brethren and their wives sponsored a sale of handwork of

the blind and also set up illuminated show cases for the display and sale of needlework and handicraft of the

guests at the Masonic Home in Utica. The vocational therapy instituted in the Home brings its own financial

profit and mental satisfaction to those engaged in it.

The many and varied activities of the members of the Craft in the State of New York are reflected in the fol-

lowing paragraph taken from the Grand Master's Address. The excellence and worthiness of the work

referred to requires no description, and it is felt that readers will agree that the scope of activities is, to say

the least amazing.

"Our God-given opportunity, as Masons, is not to meet in tiled Lodge rooms and shout with endless

repetition the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man, but rather to go out into the streets where

humanity is so desperately in need of help and succour, to give of our substance and time and energy to those

who need the grip of a friendly hand. Then, secondly, we should push actively all character-building

organisations that are training youth for positions of leadership in the days ahead.

"In carrying out this philosophy our Grand Lodge, during and after the two World Wars, under the

administrations of Past Grand Masters Turner, Strang, Froessel and Brown, embarked upon a programme of

rehabilitation of veterans. We helped veterans in every way possible to get back their health, to get jobs, to

get homes, to educate their children. We started the Masonic Brotherhood Fund to finance research into the

cause and cure of rheumatic fever and allied arthritic diseases. We allocated sizeable amounts of this Fund to

the needs of our Masonic Home in Utica and to Masonic benevolences generally. We have set up summer

camps for underprivileged boys and girls of every race, colour, creed and skin. We have given hospital

equipment, such as operating tables, iron lungs, beds, tractions, etc., etc., to relieve human suffering. We

have backed the American Red Cross in its blood-building campaign and have given so far over 2100 pints

of blood. We have pushed vigorously the formation of Boy Scout Troops and Chapters of De Molay. We

have emphasised the religious side of man's nature by encouraging attendance at synagogues and churches

by featuring go-to-church Sundays and Communion-Consecration Breakfasts. Just now we are exploring the

possibilities of starting some sort of Masonic Club among the Delegates of the United Nations, for we feel

that on the broad base of Masonry many brothers of similar spiritual ideals (now guests within our borders at

Lake Success) may work with others not in the spirit of distrust and suspicion, but understandingly and co-

operatively as brothers. In this way the peace of the world may be served and the hideousness of future wars

averted."

It is interesting to note that the Grand Lodge of New York has a Public Relations Director—R.W. Bro.

Maurice M. Witherspoon. He submitted a comprehensive Report to Grand Lodge on his year's work, under

the following headings: Special Events, Following Through, Citations, Anniversaries, Brotherhood Fund

Campaign, Irvington House Parties, Masonic War Veterans, Masonic Veterans' Service, Masonic Blood

Bank. and Television.

Brother J. Edgar Hoover, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, was awarded the Grand Lodge

Medal for Distinguished Achievement-1950. Replying to the presentation he said, inter alia: "This nation,

carved from the virgin resources of a new continent, was founded as a God-respecting land of justice and

opportunity. Many of the Founding Fathers were Freemasons. They worked fervently, amid most signal

dangers, to create a new world where hate and prejudice, born of intolerance and bigotry, would not blight

the lives of men and women. They hoped. through the beneficent influences of love, tolerance and mutual

respect, to weld the American people into an unshaken unity. These men, under the Divine Genius of the

Supreme Architect of the Universe, did their work well. America today is a bastion of hope, giving courage,

strength, and guidance to millions of people around the world. Freemasonry has, for centuries, meant

constructive building, in the hearts of men, in the life of Institutions, and in the souls of nations."

"KW. Bro. Colonel Sir Stephen S. Allen, in his inaugural Address, spoke words of universal importance,"

reports the Committee on Foreign Correspondence and Relations. M.W. Bro. Allen is quoted at length in the

Review of World-Wide Masonry for the calendar year 1949. "The Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New

York for 1950" makes most interesting and informative reading and it is regretted that, on account of space

limitations, only a very sketchy Review can be made of this volume.

————————

OUR PROUD HERITAGE.

——<>——

(By R.W. Bro. F. Johns, P.G.W., G.L. South Australia.)

————

The Masonic teaching inspires loyalty to God, our country, and our Craft. Loyalty is, of course, based on

love. The measure of our loyalty is the measure of our love, or in proportion as we love an object so shall we

be faithful and true to it. We cannot be loyal to God without deep, profound love towards Him. We cannot be

loyal to our King and country unless we have deep-seated in us love of country and its traditions, love and

respect for the highest activities of Government, and for all that contributes to discipline of life and good

order of society, love and respect for the laws of the realm, which are founded on the ordinances of God.

It is the proud heritage of our country, of our Empire, that all through our history has run like a golden thread

the strain of religion, pure and undefiled religion based on the teaching of the V.S.L. I don't mean

sectarianism, or the religion of priestly dictation, or the prejudices born of iniquity and deceit. I mean true

religious faith in God as the Creator and Ruler of mankind and Ruler of the individual life. There has run

through our Commonwealth the religion brought to this land by God-fearing sons and daughters of our

forefathers, and Freemasonry has been its handmaiden. By its three pillars of wisdom, strength and beauty,

Freemasonry has helped to spread the truths of righteousness, which alone, exalteth the nation.

The moral sense, the sense of right living and of right thinking based on our fundamental God-given truths,

has made the Commonwealth what it is today. Take away the fear and love of God from the people and the

nation falls and decays; it cannot exist. It is the moral sense, the recognition of God and of His laws, which

has made all God-fearing nations what they are. The moral sense that ennobles a nation, that makes it strong

and great, must necessarily be expressed in the character of the leaders of State, of the Church, commerce,

education and of the professions, in the leaders of all activities in the national life.

It is the moral sense that imparts justice to government. It was the moral sense that inspired our soldiers,

airmen and sailors with courage—they who won the war and who saved and preserved us from an invading,

tyrranous, devilish foe. It is this moral sense that supplies the conscience of the people.

Sometimes there is recognition, by this life's rewards, of men who do not practise morality, who offend the

canons of society by their vicious living, but what profits the man who receives honours if his life does not

bear the searching of the All-seeing Eye, and has not the smile of God's approval?

If we are loyal to God and country we shall not fail to be loyal to our Order. Freemasonry is an influence and

a force in the world because it is founded on faith in T.G.A.O.T.U. and upon that guide of our faith, the

V.S.L. in our homes; read it as we commune with God in the secret. place, excluded from the storm and

stress of the outside world. May the sanctity and power of the V.S.L. be restored to the homes of the people.

We cannot expect God to bless us if we fail to consult His Will revealed to us in the Book of our faith and

guidance. The revelation of the V.S.L. should be to us the revelation of His Will, a lamp unto our feet and

light upon our path to illumine the way, to strengthen and sustain us in our fidelity to the Masonic principles

we profess, and stimulate and encourage us in co-operating with our Brethren for the extension of the Craft

activities and its influence. We have great opportunities. We have great privileges. Masonry enables us to use

these opportunities and to exercise these privileges, so that we may do our share individually to keep the

commandment: Love God and our neighbour as ourselves.

————————

PROGRESS.

——<>——

Freemasonry has often been criticised on account of the pride it has in its absolute unchangeability. This

inexorable adherence to its antient usages and customs, which it regards as sacred and inviolable, is said to

militate against the progress of society and seriously to impede people from bringing themselves into line

with social evolution as it confronts them.

The truth of the position can 1 best be detected if a clear distinction be drawn between the words progress

and evolution. The process of evolution is one of mere change whether good or bad and can be seen in the

evolution of society from age to age and from country to country. On the other hand, progress is a change,

but for the better—an increase, an improvement, a betterment in the social relationships of men.

Social evolution can be best seen in a short range view, whereas social progress is noticeable rather over a

long range view. In the long march of social progress the rate of advance is necessarily slow. Often a setback

delays it, but the trend is upwards, onwards, and ever forward to better living.

This progress of society has many aspects, but basically it is intellectual, moral, and spiritual, and can only

come through persistent, conscious effort to express in practice the instinct that has been deeply implanted

within each of us. Over the centuries man is able to, and actually does, build up a society in which self-

discipline, moral stability, and common sense prevail—a society in which the amelioration of the conditions

of life are such that each step in the ascent but leads to the attainment of an ideal of perfection.

In order to bring such a state of things to pass, the individual is the important link in the chain of affairs, for

it is of persons that society must consist; and as the individual can only make progress by utilising the

principles that have proved successful to his forefathers, it is to them that he must look for guidance in his

moral journeyings.

The great moral principles upon which human society has been built have ever remained the same from

generation to generation, and although mankind has often been wilful and wayward in its wanderings from

the straight and narrow path along which progress lies, being endowed with the power of evaluating their

own conduct men have ultimately responded to the teachings of ages that lie a long way behind the actual

point they have themselves reached:

Freemasonry seeks to promote social progress, not to impede it, but in so doing enunciates no new moral

principles for the very simple reason that there are none to declare. It can claim, however, that what is

entirely new and absolutely its own is the method by which it seeks to convey those immutable principles

upon which moral progress depends.

In the general "evolutionary" process that goes on among human kind wars will come and block the upward

reach of man; ideologies will arise that may subvert the highest values upon which life has so far pinned its

faith; but in so far as Freemasonry can be said to have an aim it will ever seek to maintain and uphold those

antient and fundamental verities that its worthy founders clearly saw were the very foundation of moral and

social "progress" or advancement.

Freemasonry as a system of morality has taken these fundamentals and embodied them in a ritual calculated

to make such an impression on the mind of its beholders that the reaction will result in that moral progress it

seeks to promote. Its hope, too, is that the influence thus brought to bear on society in general through good

Freemasons will also result in gradual social progress and so conduce to superior conditions of life as a

whole. If in the fulness of time such is the case, the world will be convinced that Freemasonry's inflexible

adherence to its antient usages and customs rather than constituting a point for ill-founded criticism comes to

be a matter for unstinted praise and honour.—"South Australian Freemason."

————————

SOME EXPLANATIONS AS TO WHY FREEMASONRY IS INFLUENTIAL.

——<>——

That Masonry has endured in an organisational form since 1717—two hundred and thirty-three years—and is

going stronger than ever naturally bids non-Masons to ponder the question as to what force has held it

together, and in increasing numbers, for almost two centuries and a half.

True, it is generally conceded that men act from mixed motives rather than a single motive, but the mere

"loaves and fishes" of life, to borrow the Biblical phrase, do not hold men in line over long periods of time

unless there is some great spiritual power that lifts them out of the sordid considerations of the everyday

hurly-burly and makes them feel that there is a lofty, exalted purpose that makes sacrifices of time, money,

leisure and even personal ambitions to be worth while.

Masonry has proved such a power in the lives of millions of men. They are better men because they are good

Masons. They are better family men because they are good Masons. And they are better citizens because

they are good Masons. Truth, honour, justice, mercy, desire to help those who need our help—these are all

part of the plans on the Masonic Trestle Board, and each member has his role to play in making those parts

become parts of the lives of himself and his brother Masons.

In a world where there is much turmoil, as at present, persons may wonder how does this affect Masonic

teaching and practice. These controversial and disturbed and disturbing circumstances that now confront

mankind are not to be regarded as so many wild beasts from which people run to places of mere personal

safety. On the contrary, they present a challenge to each individual Mason to take stock of his Masonic safe

deposit box and utilise his spiritual treasures contained therein to inspire him anew with a zeal for

disinterested service on behalf of his fellow man.

And looking back over American history, who are the men and women who have been affectionately remem-

bered? Those who left vast fortunes? Yes, if they accumulated their money with due regard to the "rules of

the game" and used their wealth intelligently to aid their fellow man: but no, if they were ruthless. Or, how

about the teachers who, beyond the call of duty, spent extra time to aid backward pupils? Or the doctors, in

the days of the family physician, now almost extinct, who ministered to the sufferings of persons too poor to

pay them a reasonable fee? Or to the scientists and explorers who sought their reward not in money but in

fame, in some cases. and in other cases in aid of great plans destined ultimately to aid the human race? All

these embodied the spirit of Masonry, although in many cases they may not have been members of the

Masonic Fraternity. The spirit of Masonry has spread beyond the confines of its Lodge rooms and the circle

of its own membership, because people who know Masons know that they are persons who can be trusted,

persons who time and again have proved that they can be trusted to do the right and honourable thing—and

that, bear in mind, whether you are a' Mason or non-Mason, is a worthwhile achievement in life.

—"S.W.," in "The New Age."

————————

MASONIC BENEVOLENCE.

——<>——

The good work done by the Charity Stewards shows itself in the amounts contributed by the various Lodges

to the Widows, Orphans and Aged Freemasons Fund each year. At the same time it would be well to bear in

mind the remarks of our M.W. Grand Master on the matter of "Economy" which he made at the Quarterly

Communication of Grand Lodge in February of last year. He then pointed out that many Lodges had

increased the annual subscription on account of rising costs, particularly in respect of the festive board, and

he emphasised the obligation that devolved upon a brother who received an invitation to attend a Lodge

meeting and who was unable to attend, to notify the sender, of his acceptance or refusal so as to save

unnecessary waste of food and expense, particularly in regard to Installation meetings.

It is possible, too, that catering for the festive board may be done on a too elaborate scale and that Lodge

revenue expended in this direction is too great. It would be well to check up and find whether economy could

be made and savings resulting therefrom used to augment contributions to the Benevolent Fund.

In taking a long-range view of our benevolent activities we should realise that the time will come when the

dispensing of Masonic charity by way of monetary grants only will not be enough and that it may be deemed

necessary to establish homes as is done in other countries for the maintenance and education of the sons and

daughters of brethren who, owing to circumstances arising from the death, illness, or misfortune of their

fathers, are in need, and a home erected to provide for the needs and comforts of aged brethren, widows and

spinster daughters who have to rely on the generosity of the Craft. The need for a Masonic Hospital, too,

could be envisaged.

Many of our aged beneficiaries live alone, and some prefer it that way; but there are others who live lonely,

and the establishment of a home where they could have the company of aged beneficiaries like themselves

would mean much for their spiritual comfort. In England, the Royal Masonic Institute for Girls, which was

established 163 years ago, has provided for 8172 daughters of Masons during that time, and at present is

educating 886 girls. The Royal Masonic Institute for Boys admits them from the age of 8 years and provides

for their education to be pursued at Universities and Medical Schools, as well as arranging articles of

apprenticeship for them. To accommodate the aged who are unable to live in homes of their own, a block of

104 modern fiats is to be built. During the year ended June 30, 1950, 2331 patients were admitted to the

Royal Masonic Hospital.

This is a very fine record of Masonic relief and speaks well for the efforts of brethren in these parts. Here in

Western Australia we have reason to be proud of our efforts during the past 50 years to afford relief to the

necessitous, but we should strive still further to build up our funds so that if circumstances require it we will

have the necessary finance to establish similar institutions here. And so we should support our Charity

Stewards by making such contribution towards our Charity Funds as our circumstances in life may fairly

warrant, and assist the grand work that the Craft is doing in the way of Masonic Benevolence.

—"West Australian Craftsman."

————————

BUILDING A BETTER WORLD.

——<>——

No well-meaning man who has the best interests of his fellowmen at heart can view the social and economic

position of the world today without serious misgivings as to what the, future may hold for the good or ill of

mankind unless a panacea is found to restore peace and goodwill in human relationships.

The trend to materialism which has been so noticeable during the past few decades and a movement away

from spiritual values has contributed greatly to the unrest which seems to permeate practically every country

in the world today.

We read almost daily in our press of serious strikes in key industries which affect so adversely the

production of necessary commodities for our essential industries; of shortages of both goods and services; of

insufficient production of foodstuffs; of a tremendous lag in the construction of houses and other necessary

buildings for the wellbeing of the people; of rises in the basic wage in the attempt to cope with increasing

costs and prices, while at the same time we have the spectacle of shorter working hours and the consequent

reduced production of all those things so much required, and so we wonder where it is all going to end and

when a halt will be called to the chaos in which we find ourselves.

In meditating over these things and seeking for a remedy, we need look no farther than ourselves, for within

us lies the will and the power to correct the errors in our way of life and put them right; to supplant our

shortages with full production and provide an abundance of all those things which we need for ourselves and

others, and so promote a better and happier relationship between all sections of society.

When we realise that most of our troubles are the result of human agencies, and that they can be remedied by

human effort, and then make a whole-hearted attempt to bring the change about, we will be on the way to

build a better world for all to live in, but it can only be achieved by enlightening the minds of men from false

doctrines. By teaching them that spiritual values are more important to human welfare than material things;

that the Golden Rule should predominate in all our thoughts and actions towards each other, and by

eliminating selfishness from our being, we can end that evil of materialism which if allowed to continue will

rend and destroy the peace and happiness of mankind.

Recognition of and obedience to the Moral Law by all men is the real solution to the problem of world

unrest. If our leaders would meditate upon it and try to instil it into the minds of other leaders and eventually

into the minds of the people, then peace, goodwill, and happiness with all their attendant comforts of a

plenitude of all the good things of life would become a living reality and the cruel materialism which has so

injured the whole social and economic structure of the world would be removed.

As well as our leaders, we too can do much to bring our fellowman to a correct way of thinking by taking ad-

vantage of each opportunity in our daily life to impress upon our fellowmen the principles of brotherly love,

relief and truth; the wisdom of obedience to the Moral Law; the value and virtue of living selflessly, well

knowing that real worth lies in the spirit within you, and is not to be measured in terms of material things.

And so, in our own sphere, we may do something to hasten the time when all men will live and act in accord-

ance with the Moral Law, and the troubles which beset the world today will be remembered only as a result

of the frailties and foolishness of human nature and materialism.—"The West Australian Craftsman."

————————

BROTHERHOOD.

——<>——

Brotherhood—Tolerance. These two words are inseparable, for, without tolerance, brotherhood is

impossible.

Tolerance is one of the virtues Masonry attempts to inculcate in the hearts of its votaries. However, it would

be asinine to assert that it is always 100 per cent. successful; but it may be said, and without fear of

successful contradiction, that it enjoys a higher percentage of success than any other fraternal organisation.

Today the threat of world armed conflict like the sword of Damocles, would not be hanging over us if there

was tolerance between nations—tolerance, the only thing from which true brotherhood can be made.

To achieve brotherhood we must practise tolerance. We are not practising tolerance when we discriminate

against one because of his race or creed.

There are those who say we are intolerant because we do not agree with their theology; with their particular

method of baptism; for, and to whom the holy communion is administered.

Freedom to choose the religious denomination with which one wishes to affiliate is guaranteed by the

Constitution. That is as it should be.

We question no one's right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience. We don't care

what religious label he wears. That is his business. We do, however, question his right, and sometimes his

sanity, when he tells us that his is the oldest religion (meaning to infer that religion improves with age);

when he tells us that his denomination is the only 100 per cent. pure; that if we are not baptised according to

the rights of his church, we're a "gone gosling"—well, we just don't believe him.

We cannot be persuaded that any particular demonination has exclusive rights to the true religion; we do not

believe that it can be confined within the four walls of any single church. We believe that it is free to the rich

and poor alike, and that the right to interpret the Bible is not the exclusive prerogative of any dignitary of any

particular church. If that were true, genuine brotherhood would be impossible.

In Masonry the idea of equality, fraternity, brotherhood, is not a political creed, but a comprehensive,

fundamental truth springing from our faith in the Grand Architect of the Universe.

Brotherhood must be conceived in hope, nurtured by faith, and bound in charity and tolerance if it is to

become a living reality; if it is to eliminate fear, hate, greed, WAR. Brotherhood will do all those things if we

practise tolerance in this and all the nations of the earth.

Let us, as Masons, resolve today that we will continue to practise tolerance so that BROTHERHOOD may

hold sway in our ranks. Let us resolve that if we cannot speak well of a brother Mason to speak not at all, for

so long as we speak evil of a brother, so long will true brotherhood be impossible of achievement.

Let us also resolve to respect the other fellow's religious views; his political view, and let us hope that he

believes in reciprocity.

Brotherhood—Tolerance, let's keep them united forever, for true Brotherhood.—"Masonic Home Journal."

————————

CANDIDATES.

——<>——

The question is ever present in the mind of the Craft as to how men, who seek admission to its mysteries and

privileges, should be tested so as to ensure worthy men, and worthy men alone, gaining admission. It is not

easy to suggest a test that will be acceptable to all who are responsible for guarding the entrance to the

portals of Masonry. We may be allowed, however, to indicate a few broad principles for consideration when

candidates appear before the Lodge Committee for examination.

First of all, there is the general suitability of the Candidate. Is he of the calibre to whom Masonry will

appeal? Will its principles and ideals be likely to command his whole-hearted acceptance• and support? Has

he the personality requisite for any position in the Lodge he is seeking to enter that will command the respect

and confidence of the Lodge? In other words, can those before whom he appears confidently visualise him in

future years the Installed Master of that Lodge with any personal sense of satisfaction?

Secondly, the disposition and spirit of the candidate demands consideration. What is the predominating

disposition of the man? Does he possess naturally a generous and chivalrous spirit toward his fellowmen?

Does he sufficiently realise the character and scope of the unique Brotherhood into which he is seeking

admission? Has he naturally the charitable and tolerant spirit that Freemasonry will be likely to develop; or is

he narrow in his outlook, mean and stingy in spirit, and lacking in the soul and sympathies of a true man? If

he belongs to the latter type, then it is more than likely that as soon as he is well inside the Order his interest

will immediately wane, the ceremonies will become a bore to him, the benevolent activities of the Craft will

make no appeal and no response will be forthcoming.

A further consideration should be: Has he the capacity and resources essential to the demands and

responsibilities of Freemasonry without detriment to his family and position? If he, from the beginning of his

Masonic career, is unable, or, if able, unwilling to play his part in the life and activities of the Fraternity, then

it is better for him to remain outside. His qualities of mind and heart should be such as will cause him to feel

at home in the Order, enabling him, with ease, to adjust himself to its fraternal and social side. Lack of

adaptability in these particulars invariably militates against fraternal fellowship and goodwill.

The question of the effect the candidate's admission into Freemasonry will have on the personnel of the

Lodge is also vitally important. Is he of the type that Brethren will welcome and with whom there will be

affinity? Some men are so constituted that they invariably ruffle others. Their presence seems to disturb and

aggravate, and all circles in which they move are lowered in standard and tone by their presence. If the

traditions of Freemasonry are to be worthily maintained, then such principles and qualifications should not

escape consideration when candidates undergo examination.—"The Masonic Record."

————————

RUAPEHU NOTES.

——<>——

Readers will learn with regret of the death of W. Bro. Henry Brooks, I.P.M. of Lodge Awatea. No. 258, who

passed to the Grand Lodge Above exactly one week after relinquishing office. Our late W. Bro. had a

distinguished Masonic career, particularly in the field of visiting the sick at their homes and in hospital, and

his kindly nature was a great source of encouragement to all those he visited. His place will be extremely

hard to fill and to his relatives we extend our heartfelt sympathy.

Communications relating to subscriptions, Lodge

Advertisements and all business matters should be

addressed to the Secretary, N.Z. Masonic

Newspaper Co., Ltd., 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.

Lodge Ohakea Services, No. 309, also lost one of its

valued Past Masters in the person of W. Bro. P. E. A.

Curtis, who died while on a tour of England last March.

Our late W. Bro. was held in high esteem by the

members of his Lodge, and our sympathy is extended to

his widow and family.

Lodge Awatea, No. 258 held an emergency meeting

during March, when its worthy Secretary, V.W. Bro. P.

W. Morris. P.G.D.C., occupied the chair and initiated his

son Anthony, who came over from Australia especially

for the occasion. There was a large attendance to witness

the ceremony and V.W. Bro. Morris was indeed a very

proud and happy father.

W. Bro. W. McKay, P.G.S. of Lodge Oroua, No. 215, had the pleasure of installing his son, Bro. C. W.

McKay, as Master of the Lodge on 10th April. Owing to the unavoidable absence of R.W. Bro. F. C.

Jannings, Prov.G.M., Grand Lodge was represented by V.W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.G.D.C., who was

supported by several G.L. Officers. There was a good attendance of visitors and an enjoyable evening was

spent by everyone present.

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HAWKES BAY NOTES.

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The March meeting of The Services Lodge of llawkes Bay, No. 313, was probably unique in many respects.

At a fairly representative gathering V.W. Bro. P. J. S. George, P.G.D.C. and first Master of the Lodge, was

invited to assume the Chair, and with the assistance of the foundation officers, initiate his son, Alfred Amory

George. It so happens that the candidate is a Lewis, a son of a Lewis, grandson of a Lewis, and a great

grandson of a Freemason. All the Charges were delegated to Foundation P.Ms. of the Services Lodge.

Appropriately enough the candidate (surname George) was referred to as George the IVth.

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TARANAKI NOTES.

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Lodge Patea Kil., No. 18, held its Installation meeting on 14th March, the ceremony being conducted by

R.W. Bro. W. T. Simmons, P.Prov.G.M., installing Bro. B. Waterland, S.W., as W.M. and investing his

officers. There was a representative attendance of members and visitors.

Lodge Stratford, No. 75, had a notable meeting on 21st March, when W. Bro. T. Richardson, P.G.Supt.Wks.,

conducted the ceremony of Installation of Bro. H. Summerfield, S.W., as W.M., and was assisted by G.L.

Officers in the investiture of the officers. W. Bro. Richardson has been for very many years one of the most

enthusiastic and outstanding P.Ms. of this Lodge, and has given great service by continuing his work as

Preceptor of the Lodge. His predecessor in the Chair, W. Bro. H. E. Lawrence, P.G.S., was invested as

Secretary of the Lodge for the twentieth time. It was remarked that the Stratford air must conduce to long

service.

R.W. Bro. Thomas Richardson, of Stratford, has been appointed Provincial Grand Master of the Taranaki

District in succession to the late R W. Bro. Rev. A. M. Niblock.

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.

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Preparations are well in hand for the forthcoming visit of the Grand Master to Lodge St. John, No. 94, on

26th April. R.W. Bro. Jas. Stobo, Prov.G.M., and G.L. officers will welcome the G.M., and the W.M.,

officers and brethren of Lodge Fortitude, No. 64 (Bluff) have been invited to conduct the ceremony of

"Raising."

W. Bro. A. C. Millar. P.M. Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, and W. Bro. WM. Irvine. P.G.Std.B., are away with

the N.Z. Bowling Party on a tour of England.

Bro. Thomas Jerrome, a keen and enthusiastic member of Lodge Victoria, No. 147, and Southern Cross R.A.

Chapter, No. 3, recently answered the call to the Grand Lodge Above. A Lodge of Sorrow was conducted by

W. Bro. Peterson, W.M. Lodge Victoria, No. 147, and his officers on 5th April.

The Installation of Bro. A. A. Knight as W.M. of The Lodge of Remembrance, No. 318, was held on 28th

April. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. T. Johnston, Prov.G.M. of Otago, and Grand Officers of

that District. There was a good attendance of members and visitors, including R.W. Bro. Jas. Stobo,

Prov.G.M., and his officers.

E. and P. Bro. J. C. Sefton was installed M.W.S. of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, on 31st March in

the presence of a good attendance of members and visitors. The ceremony was conducted by the Sov. Grand

Insp.-Gen., ably assisted by Ill. Bro. H. C. Mackenzie, 30°, as M.C., the obligation and enthronement being

performed by I11. 'Bro. A. Sefton, 30° (father of the M.W.S.).

The 75th Anniversary of Lodge Aparima, No. 77, will be celebrated on 9th May.

Brethren of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, attended Divine Service at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church on

Sunday, 8th April, when an appropriate address was delivered by Rev. Keith Cree, B.A.

R.W. Bro. Alex. Derbie, P.D.G.M., is at present laid aside with illness.

Ill. Comp. L. H. Jones was installed T.I.M. of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, on 7th April, in the

presence of a fine attendance of members. R.E. Comp. Geo. McLeod, 'SI Supt.. paid his first official visit

since his recent appointment. Rill. Comp. A. Scott, P.T.I.M, acted as D.C.

R.E. Comp. A. Scott, who was installed Depute G.Z. at the Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter, returned

recently from a visit to the North Island, where he attended meetings of several Royal Arch Chapters. On

Anzac Day he will attend the convocation of Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, when the ceremony of

Acknowledgment will be worked.

The Second Degree was worked at the April meeting of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9.

The Installation of Bro. M. W. Young as Master of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137, was held on 12th April in the

presence of a representative attendance of members and visitors, including R.W. Bro. Jas. Stobo, Prov.G.M.,

and many Grand Officers. The ceremony was conducted by the Prov.G.M., assisted by V.W. Bro. A. R.

Cockerell, G.D.C. The refectory was filled to capacity by brethren and lady friends, who attend at the festive

board on Installation nights. The toast of "The Ladies" was ably proposed by R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell,

P.Prov.G.M., and acknowledged by Mrs. McKenzie, of Waikaka, and Mrs. J. H. Sorrensen. The health of the

newly-installed officers was proposed by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M., who made fitting reference

to the splendid work done by the Past Masters.

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OTAGO NOTES.

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Twelve W.Ms. and many of their brethren, together with a member of a Queensland Lodge, were among the

visitors at the April meeting of Lodge St. Kilda, No. 362, when the W.M., W. Bro. A. N. Ayshford, and his

officers initiated the Lodge's first candidate. The ceremony was conducted in a most impressive manner,

which augurs well for the future of Dunedin's youngest Masonic unit. It was reported that the Secretary, W.

Bro. Andrew Brown, was recovering from his recent illness and was expected to return home in about a

fortnight. The W.M. extended the Lodge's thanks to several brethren who had generously contributed gifts to

the Lodge. A brother from Oamaru was proposed as a joining member.

R.W. Bro. T. Johnston, Prov.G.M., assisted by V.W. Bro. G. Crawford, P.G.D.C., who acted as G.D.C., and

a number of present and past Grand Lodge officers, installed Bro. J. A. Lecky as W.M. of Lodge Strath

Taieri, No. 199, and invested the officers on 9th April. There was a most encouraging attendance of members

and brethern from other Lodges.

At the March meeting of Celtic R.A. Chapter, No. 42, the First Principal, V.E. Comp. T. J. Tate, reported on

the Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter at New Plymouth. Comp. Hugh Dawson, who has been a member

for many years, and now a resident of Melbourne, wrote extending felicitations and greetings to the

Companions of Celtic Chapter. The W.M.M., W. Bro. J. A. McGregor, opened a Lodge of Mark Master

Masons, and advanced a candidate to the Mark Degree.

On 28th March W. Bro. L. A. Doolan was installed as Master of the Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, by

R.W.

Bro. T. Johnston, Prov.G.M., assisted by G.L. officers. The officers of the Lodge were invested by V.W.

Bro. W. Martin and R.W. Bro. J. J. Griffiths, and the Address to the Master was delivered by V.W. Bro. Axel

Newton. The Wardens are W. Bro. C. Mason and W. Bro. C. G. Kuspert. Bro. W. J. Ingram, who has been

Chaplain of the Lodge for about twenty years, is unfortunately too ill to continue in office and W. Bro. H. E.

Barth was invested as his successor. W. Bro. Doolan delivered a most impressive address.

W. Bro. Moir, Master of Lodge St. John, No. 1137, E.C., accompanied by about 30 brethren from Timaru.

visited the Lodge of Otago, No. 844, and worked the Second Degree. The visitors were welcomed by a large

attendance of Dunedin brethren. W. Bro. Moir is the son of the late R.W. Bro. Col. J. Moir, P.D.G.M., who

was Prov.G.M. of Otago.

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CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

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South Rakaia Lodge, No. 31, held its Installation on 4th April, when W. Bro. G. A. Harrison was installed as

W.M. for a second term by the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. F. N. Kerr, and Prov.G.L. Officers, in the presence of a

large attendance of members and visitors.

St. Augustine R.A. Chapter, No. 1, held its Installation meeting on 31st March, when E. Comp. R. S.

McLeary was installed as First Principal, E. Comp. J. Leitch as 2nd Principal, and E. Comp. H. W. Dollan as

3rd Principal. R.E. Comp. A. T. Smith, G.Supt., conducted the ceremony, assisted by G. Chapter officers.

Dist. G. Chapter (S.C.) was represented by M.E. Comp. Elliott.

V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn has supplied copies of his paper on "Masonic Education in New Zealand" to

Lodge Runanga, No. 159, Amuri Lodge, No. 184, and Connaught, No. 187. Lodge Ross, No. 339, has also

been supplied with a copy of his lecture entitled "The Symbolism of King Solomon's Temple."

V.W. Bro. A. R. Chambers, G.Lec., has delivered lectures at Lodges Lincoln, No. 33, and Phoenix, No. 43,

during March.

Robert Burns Lodge, No. 139, paid an official visit to Lodge Robert Burns, No. 50, Reefton, on 7th April.

The W.M. and I.P.M. of Lodge Brighton also accompanied the party and supplied the candidate. A most

enjoyable time was spent, in spite of rough weather. Several ladies made the trip, and they were

enthusiastically entertained by the Reefton ladies.

United Forces Lodge, No. 245, held its special Anzac Commemoration Meeting on 11th April. The address

given by Bro. W. R. Lascelles was much appreciated by the large number of brethren present. Grand Lodge

was represented by M.W. Bro. Charles Flavell, P.G.M.; Prov. Grand Lodge by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson,

P.D.G.M.; and Dist. Grand Lodge, E.C., by R.W. Bro. John F. Hutchinson. It was a most impressive

meeting, and one that will be long remembered.

Lodge Doric, No. 275, held a special meeting on 12th April, when the officers of Corinthian and Ionic

Lodges attended by special invitation and jointly conducted the ceremony, which was an "Initiation." There

was a large attendance and the work was carried out in a most impressive manner.

The Installation of Otakara Conclave, No. 54, was held on 10th April, when W. Bro. A. P. Godart was

installed as Supreme Ruler by V.W. Bro. E. J. Woolf, P.S.R., and commissioned by R.W. Bro. Jesse

Worgan. There was a large gathering of brethren and the evening was a most successful one.

Lodge Southern Star, No. 256, held its P.Ms.' night on 9th April, when W. Bro. H. F. Sewell presided. W.

Bro. Sewell was Master of the Lodge in 1940-1, and during his term initiated both the present Master and the

I.P.M. of the Lodge. Among the many visitors was V.W. Bro. R. F. Newton, G.Lec., of Auckland. The work

of the P.Ms. was excellent and indicated both keenness and enthusiasm.

Lodge Waihora, No. 141, held its Installation on 12th April, when Bro. H. J. Hurford was installed as W.M.

by R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, P.Prov.G.M., assisted by officers of Prov.G.L. There was a large attendance of

members and visitors, including R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, P.D.G.M., and R.W. Bro. A. H. C. Cavell,

J.G.W.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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A Third Degree was worked at the regular meeting of Southern Cross, No. 6, in April by W. Bro. Hillier and

his officers. With so much work offering it was necessary to hold an Emergency Meeting later in the month

for the purpose of "Passing" a brother.

Ashley Lodge, No. 28, also "Raised" a brother to the Third Degree in April. W. Bro. Les. Smith and his new

team impressed with their high standard of work.

Lodge Kaikoura, No. 60, also conducted a Third Degree working in April\\ W. Bro. McLoughlin and his

officers also gave a very fine rendering of the ceremony. Later in the month an emergency meeting was held

for the purpose of initiating a candidate. A splendid attendance welcomed this accession to the ranks of

Kaikoura Lodge.

Freemasonry in this part of the District lost a faithful and ardent member in the person of W. Bro. Alexander

Boyd, P.G.D., who ceased labour recently at the ripe age of ninety-one. His life and service were patterns to

all who had the privilege of his acquaintance.

R.W. Bro. A. B. Christensen, P.Prov.G.M., with a splendid retinue of G.L. Officers, attended at Cheviot in

April for the purpose of installing Bro. Alfred Leaman as W.M. and invesfiture of his officers. Grand Lodge

was represented by R.W. "Bro. A. H. Cavell, J.G.W. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent by all

present.

Mairaki Lodge, No. 131, also held its Installation in April, when Bro. Bruce McIntosh was installed by R.W.

Bro. A. J. Jones, P.Prov.G.M. Again there was a splendid attendance of Grand and Prov. Grand Lodge

officers. The new Master is a son of V.W. Bro. Colin McIntosh, P.G.D.C. A, very fine attendance did honour

to father and son.

Amuri Lodge, No. 184, initiated a candidate in April. This is a very active Lodge doing much to further the

principles of Freemasonry in the district. A Masonic church service was held during the month, when a good

number of brethren attended the evening service at Culverden Anglican Church. A Ladies' Evening was also

held towards the end of the month, when a most enjoyable evening was spent by a large number of brethren

and their ladies.

Lodge Acacia, No. 209, "Raised" a brother in April. A good attendance enjoyed an impressive ceremony

conducted by W. Bro. Campbell and his officers.

The brethren of North Canterbury desire to express to R.W. Bro. Kerr, Prov.G.M., their deep and sincere

sympathy in the severe illness of Mrs. Kerr. It is the hope of all that the Great Architect will speedily restore

her to normal good health.

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NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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A marked improvement has been effected to the principal Lodgeroom at the Nelson Temple in the shape of

renovations and renewals of furnishings. The Temple has been re-carpeted throughout and a new tessellated

pavement provided, in addition to other improvements.

At the March meeting of Lodge Nelson, No. 288 (W. Bro. E. R. M. Coote, W.M.), brethren witnessed a

Third Degree ceremony. Two candidates were balloted for, and there was a joining member and a

proposition on first notice. The officers are thus assured of ample work ahead.

A double "Raising" occupied the March meeting of Lodge Victory, No. 40 (W. Bro. J. W. Biddle, W.M.).

There was a good attendance and the ceremony was efficiently conducted. W. Bro. Percy Thomson has left

to revisit England, accompanied by the good wishes of the brethren.

To keep pace with the work accumulating, Waimea Lodge, No. 266 (W. Bro. A. F. Wiechern, W.M.), had to

resort to an emergency meeting in March. At both the regular and the emergency double initiations were

performed. With three candidates awaiting their Second Degree the Lodge has two candidates balloted for

initiation and two on second notice, with a joining member proposed-another busy Lodge.

Lodge Eckford, No. 334 (W. Bro. C. F. Heston, W.M.), Blenheim, initiated a member of the R.N.Z.A.F. at

its regular meeting in April. There are two candidates awaiting "Passing" and one awaiting initiation.

Wairau Lodge, No. 42, was well represented on an official visit to the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity,

No. 106 (W. Bro. R. H. McKay, W.M.). The W.M. of Lodge Wairau, W. Bro. H. W. J. Waters, and his

officers presented a fine rendition of the Second Degree.

Marlborough Royal Arch Masons are looking forward to the visit of the First Grand Principal. At an

emergency meeting of the Chapter the third of a series of double Mark Degrees was performed. At the next

meeting the six candidates will be advanced.

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WELLINGTON NOTES.

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At the March meeting of Tamahine Lodge, No. 332, Bro. George Glover was installed as its fourth Master

and the officers invested. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, Prov.G.M., assisted by

officers of Grand Lodge. The past year, under the guidance of W. Bro. C. L. Partridge, showed definite

evidence of healthy growth, the social side being developed in a worthwhile manner, and all meetings were

well attended. The address to the newly-installed Master was given by M.W. Bro. Geo. Russell, P.G.M.,

whose birthday was later honoured in the refectory.

Bro. T. M. Pacey, S.W., was installed as W.M. of N.Z. Pacific Lodge, No. 2, on 21st March, the ceremony

being performed in a particularly impressive manner by the retiring Master, W. Bro. H. H. Richards, assisted

by P.Ms. of the Lodge.

R.W. Bro. J. S. Martin, Asst.Prov.G.M., conducted the ceremony of Installation at Lodge Zetland, No. 312,

on 20th March, when Bro. J. T. Weir, S.W., was installed. V.W. Bros. E. A. Sargent and R. B. Magee

invested the Wardens. The other officers were invested by W. Bros. J. L. Arcus and H. H. Dunn.

Hutt Valley R.A. Chapter, No. 41. held its Installation meeting on 27th March, when V.E. Comp. A. V.

Stamp was installed as Z. by R.E. Comp. J. R. Robertson, G.Supt.; E. Comps. E. A. Owles and T. L. Steele

as Second and Third Principals respectively. W. Bro. E. A. Owles was also installed as W.M.M.

R.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, Prov.G.M., installed Bro. A. D. Edginton as Master of Taia Lodge, No. 229, on 3rd

April before a large attendance of members and visitors. Addressing the brethren in the refectory, the new

Master gave a most thoughtful speech. V.W. Bro. A. E. Currie, G.Reg., called upon by the Prov.G.M. to

enlighten the brethren concerning the duties of the Grand Registrar, dealt with his subject in a very humorous

but nevertheless informative manner.

V.E. Comp. S. Holm was installed as First Principal of Whetu Kairangi R.A. Chapter, No. 60. on 4th April, a

position he had previously occupied in 1937. The ceremony was conducted by R.E. Comp. J. R. Robertson,

G.Supt. The Second and Third Principals were invested by R.E. Comps. R. M. Morgan. G.Reg., and A. T.

Peterkin, P.G.J. There was a good attendance of members and Companions from sister Chapters.