FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION

We hear a lot today in New Zealand—and not only in New Zealand—about juvenile delinquency. Things

have got to such a pass that the readers of our newspapers might be forgiven for coming to the conclusion

that the adolescent is Public Enemy No. 1. And yet those who retain their sense of perspective also

understand that the youth of today is just as good in essentials as the youth of earlier generations. What does

seem to be the trouble?

It is not impossible that the trouble is in ourselves. We have manufactured a particular kind of civilisation in

which we pay lip service to all manner of things; but it is on analysis, a mechanised and material civilisation.

Struggles for individual freedom, emphasis on the rights of man, were important issues some centuries ago;

today we are often content to rest on our fathers' laurels in these matters. Life for many of us was rather

uncomplicated as we grew up. There was no easy money, there was discipline in the home, which however

happy it was, was necessarily an austere and gadgetless place by modern standards. There was a great deal of

discipline in schools, and there were no talkies, no bedside radio sets, no crime comics, no erotic

advertisements. That kind of atmosphere, of course, had its disadvantages, summed up in the expression

"Victorian repression". Standards were so strict that many natural impulses were driven underground, to

fester there. A strict moral standard too seldom allowed room for kindness for the repentant sinner. Penalties

were frequently out of all proportion to offences.

Nevertheless there is some danger that the pendulum may have swung too far in the opposite direction. In

education emphasis is today laid mostly on the development of "personality", not on discipline and logical

thought-processes. There is a more free and amiable atmosphere about our schools, but there is some doubt

as to whether they inculcate those habits of self-discipline which meant so much to the Victorians. There is a

tolerant attitude at large in the community towards such subjects as betting, income tax dishonesty, trading at

times not allowed by the law, secret commissions and discounts, which all tend to weaken what used to be

known as the moral fibre. And side by side with these indulgences which we permit ourselves is a most

ignoble and illogical conviction that our children must be protected from them. The attitude is: "Don't do as I

do, do as I say." This attitude writes down the intelligence and the spirit of our children to the very lowest

level.

What we appear to have lost is trust in our children. We, in our smug adulthood, can see the issues and

choose the worst, and it is our own funeral. They, being tender innocents, must be protected and kept in

ignorance.

One of the most important tenets of most of the great religions and ethical systems is the doctrine of free

choice: but free choice cannot be exercised without knowledge. Putting it otherwise, innocence is not

ignorance, and ignorance is not innocence.

It is possible to bring a child up in seclusion, ignorant of most of the vices and evils of this wicked world. He

may become a little maladjusted through lack of contacts, coarse and fine, with his fellows, but at least he

can be protected from their influence. But if you do this you are taking, on his behalf, an appalling risk. You

are taking the risk that one day he may come out of his seclusion, and that the impact of all the evils of

modern life, from which you have protected him, may be so extreme and so damaging, that you will destroy

him altogether. Rigid censorship does that sort of thing, and even the adult, going to another country, a larger

centre of civilisation, finds a sort of unholy fascination in things he never knew existed, instead of taking

them for granted and ignoring them.

It would be a grave mistake to make New Zealand a

hothouse, insulating children from every blast. As

someone once put it, the risk is that some day some,

goat will leave the door open.

There is a better answer, and that is to equip the

child to make a choice, to provide for every bad

influence a dozen good ones. Too much leisure

makes milk bar cowboys: too high wages in adolescence make improvidents and wastrels: slack parents

make even slacker children.

The antidote to bad comics is good reading and plenty of it, because most children can be trusted to use their

intelligence to the point where comics seem the cheap things they are.

Freemasonry in New Zealand follows largely the United Kingdom pattern. It is the traditional way of the

Craft, it suits our temperament. We believe it is correct, and we are unlikely to change it. But it is of interest

to recall that not only the Order of the Eastern Star, but the De Molay and Job's Daughters rites flourish

almost throughout the United States: in other words, there are pseudo-Masonic institutions for all members

of the family. Little though we may agree with these institutions from the point of view of keeping

Freemasonry clear of innovations, there is obviously a case in any country for some such institutions—

although not necessarily affiliated with the Craft. In this country such organisations as the Boy Scouts and

the Girl Guides fulfill some of the same functions.

It would be a pity if among all our duties the one we did worst and were most frightened and ineffective

about was that most important duty to posterity. We are adult and our characters are formed: our children

have come into a more complex world than we were born into. Misguided care for them can lead us to wrap

them in cotton wool, but they are, most of them, too good for that. They want, and rightly, to see the world as

it is, and to take their part in it. If we are prepared to concede that they are up to it, really to admit that they

must play the part of adults, with all the cards on the table, then it becomes clearer how we can help them.

We can provide incentives for them to live their lives according to what we ourselves know as the Masonic

line and rule; we can see that in their homes they are presented with the good side of life and informed about

the bad, so that they may recognise that for what it is when they see it, and we can show in our own lives that

the dull life of an ordinary citizen carries in it more real happiness and satisfaction than the life of an enemy

of society, with all the glamour and excitement it can borrow, can possibly afford. More than all this, we can

by precept and example and in a friendly rather than a didactic way, show them that true happiness can be

attained through devotion to an objective, and not in any other way.

v MAUNGAKIEKIE LODGE No. 373
Church Parade

The following sermon was delivered by the Rev. Bro. S. D. McConchie, Vicar-elect of St. Oswald's Church,

Campbell Road, One Tree Hill, Auckland, and a member of Russell Lodge No. 254, Wellington, on Sunday,

1st May, when the W.M., Officers and a goodly number of Brethren and their families of Maungakiekie

Lodge, No. 373, attended the Evensong Service. The Master, W. Bro. C. W. Haines read the first lesson. St.

Oswald's Church Hall is the meeting place of the Lodge and at the conclusion of the Service supper arranged

by the Lodge was served to all who remained.

"As the square and compasses are universally recognised as symbols of freemasonry, I feel that I can without

scruple or diffidence use them instead of a text for my talk to you tonight. Just as these symbols serve to

remind masons of some of the principles of their brotherhood they can serve also as a reminder of some of

the important doctrines of the Christian faith.

"In discussions on the union of Churches it is generally agreed that, in addition to the acceptance of the

Bible, there are three essentials to membership of the Universal Church. These essentials are

acknowledgement of the Creeds, use of the two greater sacraments, and an Apostolic Ministry.

"For Christians the square may be a symbol of the Creeds, which the early Church drew up to bring the rude

matter of their belief into due form, and to provide means by which the beliefs of individuals could be tried

and proved. From the earliest times men have taken the true doctrines of the Church, and have twisted them

into heresy because they have failed to understand them fully. This has almost always been quite accidental,

but accidental or not, the results have been divisions in the Church. Let us remember then that the Creeds are

not fetters to bind us in narrow dogmas. They are indeed the square by which we may try to adjust our

beliefs, to haiinonise them with those of loyal Christians throughout all ages.

"What are known as the two greater sacraments are those of baptism and Holy Communion. These the

Church holds as being necessary for all. The whole number of the sacraments is seven, but the remaining

five, although often desirable, are not necessary for all Christians. The compasses therefore, can remind

Christians of the two essential sacraments. Freemasons, who recall the peculiar significance of the

compasses in their Masonic life, will appreciate the truth of the saying that the greatest privileges of

membership in the Christian fellowship are found in participation of these two sacraments. Baptism has a

double nature, being both formal initiation into the Christian fellowship and an effective cleansing from that

tendency to do what is wrong which we call "original sin". The Holy Communion is THE great means, given

us by Christ Himself, to strengthen and help us in our efforts to live that kind of life which our faith in God

demands. To those of us who are fully aware of our failures and weaknesses it is helpful and encouraging to

remember that these sacraments don't depend for their value on us. They are not rewards given us by God

because we are good, or even because we try to be good. They are a free gift from God, in spite of our faults,

to help us overcome them. All God asks of us is our acceptance of His offer of grace.

"The final necessary qualification for membership of the Universal Church is acceptance of the three fold

and Apostolic Ministry. For this also you will find a parallel in Masonry in the principle officers of the

Lodge. Just as they are chosen after experience in the service of their Lodge, and then appointed with

appropriate ceremonies, so Bishops, priests and deacons are chosen and appointed with ceremonies which

are in many ways traditional since the earliest days of the Church.

"As you are well aware, Masonry is a progressive study, and in this too, it is in close accord with the Church.

In his letter to the Galatians 3: 21. St. Paul writes 'The law hath been our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ'.

Here he recognises the importance of study of the Jewish scriptures as the foundation for accepting

Christianity. Many of you will be familiar with a similar progressive understanding of Freemasonry.

"I have traced some of the similarities between Freemasonry and the Church in detail this evening because I

would like you to think carefully of the relationship between your lives as Masons and as members of the

Christian Church. Your presence here this evening shows clearly that you see no difficulty in being at the

same time active both as Freemasons and as Churchmen. I would like to go further than that, and suggest

that, as Freemasons and Christians you must be active in the practice of your Christian duties within the

Church to render the circle of your Masonic duties complete. Great importance is attached in Freemasonry to

the family relationship, but it is obvious that this can have no direct part in the practice of Masonry. Clearly

then, if our wives, daughters and young sons are sent to Church for their moral and religious activity, and we

find our sole practice of devotion in our Lodge, we will tend to destroy that family unity which as Masons it

should be our object to foster. Let us then be true Masons in our regard for and practice of unity within our

families and particularly in the implied obligation of worship as a family. Finally, I would suggest that your

honour as Masons requires loyal observance of every obligation into which as Churchmen, you may at any

time have entered. It may be that a careful study of the promises you made at your confirmation, or at the

baptism of your children, will cause you to wonder if you have lost your right to the description of your .

character associated with your title when you first joined a Lodge. If you feel you have lost this right, you

may without delay repair that loss by joining actively in the work and worship of your Church. In this I am

sure you will find, not a burden, but a broadening of that life of fellowship which is one of the joys of

Freemasonry.

v v v

FAITH, HOPE, AND CHARITY

Every Freemason has heard the denominations for the three principal rounds of Jacob's Ladder: Faith, Hope

and Charity, but few of us have given to these the time and thought that may give them greater meaning even

than that suggested by our ritual.

Faith in God we must have, of course. That is required of us as Freemasons, but isn't it also important to have

faith that the great Truths which are Freemasonry will ultimately prevail over error and sin; isn't it also

important to have faith in our fellows; isn't it also important to have faith in ourselves?

Hope does not always end in fruition, and it may be well that it does not. Fruition for all our hopes might

bring lethargy and apathy, while failures may bring new hopes and new goals which stir us to mental and

physical activity. And let not all hope concern ourselves. Let us unselfishly hope for the welfare and

prosperity of others, and do something to bring about the fruition of such hope.

Charity, denominated the greatest of the rungs of Jacob's Ladder, may be at the same time the most

misunderstood and the least understood. A large portion of members of the Craft, and certainly the greater

number of the profane, think our charity is confined

to our material contributions for the relief of

distress, contributions to homes for aged Brethren,

contributions for the education of children of a

deceased Brother. If material gifts are the sole claim

we may advance, possibly we should not speak too

loudly about being a charitable institution, and we

should not be vocal about it even if we could be

described as charitable in the distribution of worldly goods.

OUR CHARITY

Maybe we may develop something of interest by asking, "What is meant by the suggestion that our charity

extends beyond the grave through the boundless realms of eternity?" Gifts of silver and gold and of other

material things do not qualify for this description, but there is a charity greater than such gifts. We may have

charity for a Brother's shortcomings, and other Brethren may have charity for ours. We may whisper in a

Brother's ear good counsel that will keep him from evil ways. We may speak praisingly of a Brother's good

points and minimise the others. Such may be the kind of charity the Ancient Brother had in mind when he

spoke of it as extending beyond the grave, through the boundless realms of eternity, for the kind words

spoken of us while we are here, and the kind words we speak of others, will continue to be spoken after we

have crossed the river.

—E. Bede in "Western Australian Freemason"

v v v

WAIRAU LODGE, No. 42, BLENHEIM, HAS FOUR

50-YEAR BADGE HOLDERS

In sparkling form despite his 86 years, W. Bro. Adan Gibson, P.G.D., of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, Blenheim,

was the outstanding figure at his Lodge's Installation meeting when he received Grand Lodge's 50-Year Gold

Badge. An honour hard enough in all conscience for anyone to get, it was made even more difficult for W.

Bro. Gibson because as he himself put it, he was foolish enough to resign in his early days in the Craft and

thus lost seniority.

When he was handed the Badge by M.W. Bro. W. J Girling, P.G.M., he was actually in his 56th year as

Freemason. But, he gleefully told the delighted assemblage he looks forward to adding a good few years to

that remarkable figure.

W. Bro. Gibson, who lives at Spring Creek, four or five miles from Blenheim, is not only hale and hearty and

a regular worker in the Craft, but is still managing his plumbing business and is on duty daily. Certainly the

town's oldest active business man, he is also as well-known as the town clock and as respected for regularity

and probity. When it comes to Masonic duty he has few peers in attendance, and for many years has

supported a succession of Provincial Grand Masters at installations all over the territory, the longest and

coldest journeys failing to deter him.

M.W. Bro. Girling referred to his noteworthy record in terms of warmest esteem, and every Mason in

Marlborough will endorse his sentiments.

W. Bro. Gibson, in a lively reply, declared that he had loved every minute of his Masonic associations. As

for his rule of life he was always guided by his Scottish mother's advice: "Ca' canny, take' your hurdles as ye

come to them; and dinna build ony castles in the air."

Replying later to a toast in his honour, W. Bro. Gibson said he had the pleasure of visiting four years ago the

Lodge, Cromwell Kilwinning, in which he was initiated 55 years ago, and to note the similarity of their ritual

with that used by his present Lodge, Wairau, No. 42.

Initiated on May 16, 1900, in Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge, No. 98, Cromwell, W. Bro. Gibson, after coining

to Marlborough, joined Wairau Lodge, No. 42, Blenheim, on August 24, 1909. He had taken his demit from

Cromwell Kilwinning at the end of 1904. In 1917 he was installed as W.M. of Wairau Lodge, was appointed

a Grand Steward in 1929 and accorded the honour of Past Senior Grand Deacon in 1940. He was made an

honorary member of his Lodge in recognition of his long and faithful service.

Three other members of Wairau Lodge hold the 50-Year Badge but are unable to take an active part. They

are R.W. Bro. W. C. Lucas, P.G.W., who was for many years secretary of the Lodge; W. Bro. F. Nosworthy,

P.G.D.; and Bro. James Law, who now lives in Hamilton.

Two members who are approaching the stage where they will qualify for this honour are W. Bro. McKenzie

and Bro. R. K. Todd, who both joined the Craft in Scotland. Bro. Todd enjoys another remarkable record—

as Tyler of Wairau Lodge. He was invested the other night for the 29th time and for the 23rd consecutive

occasion. Naturally his Brethren look forward to honouring him when his Badge arrives.

v v v

THE UNUSUAL

You know that one of the unusual things about Masonry is that in addition to all other facts it impresses upon

the candidates that character builders must build their own character. This is the unusual thing. Masonry may

teach them how, fellowship of the brethren may be a great aid, the experiences of others may suggest, but

every member, a Mason "dyed deep in the wool" must "work out his own salvation", if you get our meaning,

that he may understand his obligation to himself, to his fellowman, and to his Creator. Such are the

"fundamentals" of a real man and a true Mason. Remember Masonry has little, possibly nothing, to do with

the doctrine of "vicarious atonement", for failure to observe in practice the fundamentals of character. Of

course there is Masonic charity, but only so far. Forgiveness must be earned. What you and I need today is

individual self-control, self-respect, and integrity. Such are the prime essentials of high character and the true

measurement of a Mason.

—P. C. Somerville, in "Masonic News".

v v v

AUCKLAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF RESEARCH

The second regular meeting was held on Thursday, 23rd June, in the Masonic Hall at Remuera, which with

its furnishings has very kindly been placed at its disposal in the meantime by Lodge Remuera, No. 1710 E.C.

and the Auckland R.A. Chapter, No. 1338 E.C.

After the usual business had been dealt with, two very interesting and informative papers were read: (1) "The

Excellent Degree", contributed by R.E: Comp. Dr. Ross Hepburn, Gd. Supt. of the Canterbury District, and

(2) "Why Should I Join the Royal Arch?" by R.E. Comp. C. G. Hedge, who holds the same position in

Otago.

The hearty appreciation of the Companions of the Chapter was expressed in cordial votes of thanks to the

authors, and in due course both papers will be printed and circulated to all members.

Following the practice in Lodges of Research, the paper on "The Mark Degree", read at the previous meeting

by R.E. Comp. N. B. Spencer, Z., was discussed, and a number of questions asked.

An account of the discussion, and answers to the questions, will appear in the next issue of the Transactions

of the Chapter.

v v v

AUCKLAND'S "No. 10"
Courtesies Between Constitutions

The Installation of the United Service Lodge, No. 10, on Wednesday, June 29th, had several features of

special interest.

It was the first time for some twenty years that an ordinary Installation Meeting of an Auckland Lodge of the

New Zealand Constitution had been attended by official representatives of the District Grand Lodge of

England; W. Bro. H. B. Lusk, Deputy District Grand Master, entered with thirteen Officers of his District

and was received and warmly welcomed by the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. E. O. Faber.

M.W. Bro. W. J. Girling, P.G.M., was then announced and entered in the company of the unusually large

number of thirty-five Officers of Grand Lodge; among them were M.W. Bro. W. W. Wright, P.ProG.M.,

himself a member of No. 10, and all the most distinguished Brethren of the District.

W. Bro. A. E. Rodgers was the 102nd. Master to be Installed in the Chair of the Lodge; it was founded in

1864, No. 421 I.C., and for the first eighteen years of its history, in accordance with Irish practice in those

days, Installations were held twice yearly, on St. John the Baptist's Day, 24th June, and St. John the

Evangelist's Day, 27th December, or as soon thereafter as possible.

To those who knew the circumstances, one of the most interesting features of the evening was the Investiture

as Almoner of W. Bro. J. S. Doull; he is the son of one of those who founded the Lodge 91 years ago. W.

Bro. J. C. Doull, a non-commissioned officer of the 65th Regiment, who was installed as Master on St.

John's Day at Christmas, 1867.

In the Refectory.—In the course of his reply to the toast of the Officers of Grand Lodge, R.W. Bro. Faber

referred to the presence of W. Bro. Lusk and his Officers, which was a great honour for one of our oldest

Lodges and had given particular pleasure.

Recently, he said, he had been invited to attend the

Quarterly Communication of the District Grand

Lodge of England, an unusual privilege which he

had deeply appreciated, though, he humorously

admitted, he had felt some embarrassment during

the discussion of "Domestic Affairs".

Speaking about the proposals for a hostel and cottages on the 27-acre block of land which had been secured

in Onehunga district, R.W. Bro. Faber said they were taking shape much more rapidly than had been

anticipated; they were being so actively supported that instead of being years ahead building would probably

commence in a matter of months. Details of the project were to be put before the Brethren of the Province at

an early date in an issue of 7,000 circulars.

The toast of "Sister Constitutions" was responded to by W. Bro. Lusk who said he need say nothing about

the fraternal relations between the branches of the Masonic Family in Auckland, the cordiality of which was

known and enjoyed by all.

They now had a new interest in common, in the scheme for the accommodation and care of elderly and

infirm Brethren which had been initiated by the Provincial Grand Master. It had the hearty support and

would have the practical assistance of the District Grand Lodge of England and its Brethren, and he knew

that the other Constitutions in Auckland were of the same mind as his own.

v v v

MATERIALISM AND THE MORAL LAW

The materialism which has swept into the lives of individuals and nations throughout the world, has done

much to unbalance the whole economic position and become a real threat to the peace and happiness of

mankind. If not checked and supplanted by spiritual values, it may prevent the realisation of peace and

prosperity among men for many generations to come.

While materialism has even been a strong trait in human character, right through the history of time it has

been markedly so since the close of the First World War. The desire to acquire material things, whether it be

in the form of goods, power, or position, seems to dominate the minds and activities of a great number of the

people all over the world. Business seems to operate less in the service of mankind than for the material

benefits derived from its operations. The effect of this material grab at the world's wealth, is that while some

may acquire more than they are justly and morally entitled to, others must perchance receive less. This,

together with the grab for power in the form of aggression on the part of some nations forcing an enormous

expenditure on armaments on the part of the other nations concerned to protect their rights and possessions,

has created in the minds of many, a material outlook for self-protection and preservation that shows itself in

the efforts they make to acquire all the material wealth they can, whether or no they give real value in return.

Less hours of work; reduced production per man hour; and higher rates of pay, together with rises in prices

of commodities and increased profits on restricted turnover, have had their effect in causing the inflation

which prevails in many countries, and which has proved detrimental to the peace, comfort, and well-being of

all who suffer as a result of this materialism, especially those who suffer most and who are least able to bear

it, the aged; the pensioners; and all those on small fixed incomes who do not participate in wage or income

adjustments from time to time.

While the leaders and governments of nations can help to break down this materialism through legislation to

that end, the real answer to the problem lies in educating mankind to the wrongs of undue materialism and

the necessity of placing spiritual values before that of material values, to teach men that they should give a

fair exchange of value for value in all their transactions with each other for goods and services, instead of

trying to best each other and reap an unfair advantage. When the necessity of this spirit of fair dealing is

acknowledged and practised by all men, then we could look forward to an era of service before self; more

and better work; increased production of goods; reduced costs and prices; the gradual elimination of

inflation; restoration of value to the pound; and a general uplift of the moral tone of human society.

This desirable and very necessary way of life can be achieved and enjoyed by men only when they can be

made to realise that they must place spiritual values first and act in keeping with the moral law. The task to

bring this about will be long and arduous, but as Freemasons, we can do much to assist by observing our

instructions to exemplify the moral law in all our dealings with our fellowmen.

—"West Australian Freemason."

———

NELSON - MARLBOROUGH

A very popular officer of Lodge Victory, No. 40, the S.W., Bro. Max Talbot, was Installed as W.M. at the

74th Anniversary of the Lodge on 28th May, by the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. H. G. West, in a most impressive

ceremony. There was an attendance of well over 200 members and visitors from the various Lodges in the

Territory. The address to the Brethren was ably rendered by R.W. Bro. F. G. Brown, P.Prov.G.M.

It is very gratifying to learn that V.W. Bro. Syd. Cannington is now back at home and making steady pro-

gress towards better health. We will all be delighted to see him back in Lodge again.

W. Bro. Claude Lusty, W.M. of Lodge Nelson is giving valuable assistance to Country Lodges, as well as to

the newly formed Lodge Wakatu, by providing them with candidates. On 6th August Lodge Murchison will

"Pass" a Brother on behalf of Lodge Nelson, on 15th August a similar degree will be conferred by Lodge

Wakatu, and again, on the 20th August, Lodge Havelock will conduct a passing ceremony on another of

Lodge Nelson's candidates.

———

MARLBOROUGH

There was a particularly large attendance at the Installation meeting of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, when the

Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. H. G. West installed Bro. H. G. Pickford as W.M. Opportunity was taken at this

meeting to present his 50 years' service badge to W. Bro. Adam Gibson, P.G.D. The presentation was made

by M.W. Bro. W. J. Girling, P.G.M., who referred not only to the outstanding service of W. Bro. Gibson in

the past but also to the excellent work he is still doing despite his 85 years. In his reply W. Bro. Gibson was

in great form and at times had his hearers convulsed with his humorous anecdotes of the past.

The installation of W. Bro. J. H. D. McRobie on 9th July as Master of Lodge Eckford, No. 334, was carried

out by the Asst. Prov.G.M., V.W. Bro. A. E. Greig. There was again a very large attendance of both G.L.

Officers and Brethren and a very happy evening was spent. W. Bro. McRobie is a son of W. Bro. J. D.

McRobie, who was the first Master of this young Lodge, and one of the Lodge's first initiates.

The July meeting of the Marlborough Preceptory of Knights Templar was attended by the Dist. Grand Prior,

V.Em.Fr. K. Freeman and the District Grand Secretary, Ven.Fr. L. W. Killoh. A visit was also made by

Ven.Fr. D. McEwan and some of his Brethren of the Nelson Preceptory.

There will be seven debutantes for presentation to R.W. Bro. H. G. West and Mrs. West at the combined

Lodges Ball on 20th July. Interest has quickened perceptibly as the date draws near and it is confidently

predicted that the ball will prove such a success that it will he the forerunner of many more.

General regret is felt throughout the district at the death of Bro. Napier Fisk. "Nape" as he was known to all

was for many years custodian of the Masonic Hall in Blenheim and as a member of all branches of

Freemasonry practised in the district was respected and esteemed by all.

We regret to report that Bro. M. A. Bary who had

recently to decline the Mastership of Lodge

Waitohi owing to ill health, is now in hospital at

Blenheim. However, reports during the past few

days have been more reassuring so we are hoping

he will soon be about again.

————

CHRISTCHURCH

At the June meeting of Lodge Doric, No. 275, the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. S. C. Sherrard, accompanied by a

number of Prov. G.L. Officers attended for the purpose of Installing the S.W., Bro. A. E. D. Ludecke, as

W.M., and the Investiture of Officers. During the evening the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson,

who was also in attendance, presented Bro. E. W. Watson with a Jewel as a mark of appreciation from the

Lodge for his faithful service as Senior Steward for 18 years.

There was a fine attendance at Lodge Sumner, No. 242, at their June meeting when the W.M., W. Bro. R. M.

Farrant and his Officers conducted the Ceremony of the Second Degree most impressively.

The ceremony of "Passing" was also conducted by the W.M. and Officers of Lodge Southern Star, No. 256,

on 13th June, the work being of a very high standard.

Shirley R.A. Chapter, No. 86, at their June meeting conducted an Exaltation Ceremony. The work was both

dignified and impressive. As this was the last meeting before Installation there was a large attendance of

Members and visiting Companions from Sister Chapters.

The W.M., Bro. W. D. Gillespie, and Officers of Lodge Unanimity, No. 3, conducted a double Initiation

Ceremony on 7th June, in the presence of a fine attendance of Members and visiting Brethren, when an

excellent rendering of the Ceremony was witnessed.

Lodge Robert Burns, No. 139, at their June meeting conducted the ceremony of "Raising" a candidate to the

Third Degree in a dignified manner before a good attendance of members and visitors. A most enjoyable

evening was spent.

———

OTAGO

Saturday, 18th June, was the occasion of a visit of the Supreme Ruler and Brethren of Otakara Conclave,

Christchurch, to Otakou Conclave, Dunedin, when the visitors worked the Degree of Admission. There were

five candidates admitted as Princes of the Order. Those who witnessed the working were very impressed

with the high standard attained by the Christchurch Brethren. Otakou Conclave suffered a severe loss

recently in the passing of R.W. Bro. V. R. Anderson, P.G.G., and Bro. P. N. Thornicroft.

R.E. Comp. C. G. Hedge, G.Supt., conducted the Installation of E. Comp. W. H. Kruskopf as First Principal

and the Investiture of Officers in Celtic Chapter, No. 42, at the June Convocation. Those who assisted the

G.Supt. were M.E.Comp. H. R. Mitchell, P.G.Z., R.E. Comp. Thos. O'Shea, P.Ch.S.C., R.E. Comn. Chas.

Mason, P.G.Reg., R.E. Comp. Axel Newton, P.G.J., V.E. Comps. A. F. de Hare, R. H. Cleland, C. H.

Bissland, W. Sowerby, T. H. R. Major, P.G.D'sC. Distinguished visitors present included M.E. Comp. Thos.

Stuart, D.Supt., N.Z. South, S.C. and V.E. Comp. W. McCormack, G.H., N.Z. South E.C.

In the presence of practically every member of Lodge St. Kilda, No. 362, resident in Dunedin, the P.M's

"Raised" two F's at an emergency meeting in May. R.W. Bro. Thomas Johnston, P.Prov.G.M. occupied the

Chair and the ceremony of the evening was of a very high standard.

A note of sadness pervaded the July meeting of Lodge St. Clair, No. 246, which was in mourning because of

the death of its first W.M., W. Bro. V. R. Anderson, P.G.D. The Master (W. Bro. S. Ewen Lane) paid a

moving tribute to W. Bro. Anderson's services to Freemasonry in general and especially to Lodge St. Clair.

A candidate was Initiated into Freemasonry. The Master extended the Lodge's congratulations to Bro. L. W.

Penrose, who has been appointed Assistant Manager to the Bank of New Zealand in Christchurch. A large

number of visitors included the W.M., W. Bro. S. T. Knewstubb, and Brethren of Lodge Teviot, No. 148.

An exceptionally large attendance of visiting W.M's and Brethren were present at Lodge Achilles, No. 310,

on 8th July, to greet W. Bro. W. G. Aitken, the occasion being his last night in the Chair as Master, the

ceremony being the raising of a brother to the Third Degree. The candidate is a prominent electrical

engineer, and about 30 electricians entered the Lodge in a body to witness the ceremony.

Lodge St. Patrick, No. 468 I.C., celebrated its 75th Anniversary on 22nd June, when Bro. P. C. Barker was

installed as the seventy-fifth Master. R.W. Bro. A. E. Edwards, Prov.G.M., came down from Auckland to

take part in the ceremony, which was carried out by R.W. Bro. R. C. Macpherson, Dep.Prov.G.M., assisted

by V.W. Bro. D. Anderson, P.Prov.S.G.W., as Prov.G.D.C., and Officers of Prov.G.Lodge. The large

attendance was worthy of the occasion. Also present were R.W. Bro. H. R. Mitchell, Prov.G.M.,

accompanied by R.W. Bro. W. Martin, Dep.G.M., and other G.L. Officers representing the New Zealand

Constitution; together with R.W. Bro. J. Kennedy, Dist.G.M., S.C., and W. Bro. Lord, Dep.Dist.G.M., E.C.,

with officers of the District Grand Lodges.

————

SOUTHLAND

The "Ladies' Night" conducted by the Lodge of

Remembrance, No. 318, at Invercargill on 4th July,

was a most successful function, when dancing,

games, and supper claimed the attention of a good

number of Brethren, their lady friends and members

of Sister Lodges. A cordial welcome was extended

by W. Bro. M. J. Nicolson, Master, on behalf of the

Officers and Brethren.

Past Principals of Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, No.

3, with V.E. Comp. Geo. F. Hoffman in the chair,

conducted the Ceremony of Exaltation at the regular

convocation on 28th July. He was assisted by the

Past Z.s of the Chapter. The forthcoming visit of the

Grand Z. in August is being looked forward to with

keen anticipation by the companions in this district.

Owing to the inability of R.W. Bro. E. A. Cameron, Prov.G.M., to attend, as the result of an indisposition,

the Installation Meeting of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, on 18th July, was conducted by R.W. Bro. Jas. Stobo,

P.Prov.G.M., and Past Masters, who were accompanied by a good following of Grand Lodge Officers. There

was an excellent attendance of members and visiting Brethren. The address to the Master was given by V.W.

Bro. Wm. Kelman, Asst.Prov.G.M., and the Brethren by R.W. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, P.G.W. Bro. E. J. Jordan,

the newly installed Master, is assured of a good year of office.

Ill Bro. H. C. Mackenzie, 30°, is making satisfactory progress after his recent serious illness which has

confined him to the Southland Kew Hospital for several weeks. V.E. Comp. H. R. Beale, P.Z. St. Andrew's

R.A. Chapter, No. 90, who has also been under a very serious operation is reported to be on the mend. Both

these well knd‘vn Brethren who have been very ill, have rendered excellent service to the Craft in the various

units with which they are connected.

W. Bro. R. U. Macaulay, P.M. Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, who recently received a public honour, was

congratulated at the July meeting of his Lodge.

The visit of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, to Lodge Morning Star (Dunedin) on 2nd July was most enjoyable,

and greatly appreciated by all concerned. About 30 Brethren made the trip to support W. Bro. E. M.

McNaughton, W.M., and his Officers in conducting the Ceremony of "Raising" in the presence of a large

attendance of Brethren and visiting Brethren. The following day (Sunday), a motor tour around Dunedin with

a break for morning tea at the Lodge Room was greatly enjoyed by the Invercargill Brethren.

The members of Lodge Wallace, No. 129, and Wallace R.A. Chapter, No. 34, recently experienced a great

loss as the result of a serious fire which caused extensive damage to the Lodge Room and Refectory. This

was most unfortunate, as extensive improvements to the Temple were just about completed.

Ven. Preceptor A. Gregory and Officers of the Southland Preceptory of Knights Templar conducted the

Ceremony when two well known R.A. companions of Southern Cross, No. 3 were admitted.

V.E. Comp. C. J. K. Lythgoe, Z., Officers and a number of Companions of Southern Cross R.A. Chapter,

No. 3, will pay a fraternal visit to Taringatura R.A. Chapter, No. 96, in the near future and work the Royal

Arch Degree.

v v v

Obituary
————

M.W. BRO. T. M. RANKIN, P.ProG.M., P.G.Z.

The death at Invercargill on 1st July, of M.W. Bro. Thomas Murray Rankin, has robbed the Craft of a brother

who has been one of its outstanding personalities for many years. As a member of Lodge St. John, No. 94,

for well over 50 years, he contributed much to the welfare of his Lodge as an Officer, being one of its oldest

Past Masters. He has been honoured by Grand Lodge on many occasions, his most important appointments

being Prov.G.M. of Southland, Deputy Grand Master, and P.Pro Grand Master. Several years ago he was

presented with his 50 years' Long Service Medal. His work on behalf of Royal Arch Freemasonry was also

of a particularly high standard. He was recently presented with a Long Service Jewel to mark his 40 years'

membership of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3. He also received many honours from Grand

Chapter, .the most important being Grand Supt., Southland; P.G.J., P.G.H., Depute G.Z., and Grand Z.

Our late brother was also a foundation member of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, serving as M.W.

Sov. in 1920 with marked distinction. In his younger days he was an enthusiastic worker for Freemasonry in

all its branches and the Craft is all the poorer by his passing. He also played a prominent part in the business

community in Southland as a successful watchmaker and jeweller, his well established business in

Invercargill being widely known.

His interest in the Caledonian Society and the Southland Pipe Band was further evidence of his desire to

serve his fellow men. A well attended Lodge of Sorrow was held prior to the funeral service at the Eastern

Cemetery, Invercargill. There was also a large attendance of the general public.

———

W. BRO. CHARLES SCOTT JOHNSTON, P.G.D.

The death of W. Bro. Valdemar Rode Anderson at Dunedin on 10th June, 1955, terminated more than 50

years' meritorious service to Freemasonry, especially during the last 30 years, when he was actively

associated with every branch of the Craft working in Otago.

It was in 1898 that W. Bro. Anderson was Initiated in Lodge Ponsonby, No. 708, S.C. He remained a

member of this Lodge for three or four years until his duties as a member of the Post and Telegraph

Department took him away from Auckland. Several transfers in the next few years prevented him from

linking up with another Lodge, and it was this break in his membership which prevented him being awarded

a 50-year Service Jewel.

In 1909, however, W. Bro. Anderson, affiliated with Lodge Albion, No. 45, Devonport. He served as Master

of this Lodge in 1916-17, during the Grand Mastership of M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson. On being transferred

to Wellington, he affiliated with Lodge Tutanekai, No. 156 in 1918. A period in Napier preceded his transfer

to Dunedin, where he became a close personal friend of R.W. Bro. George Barclay.

W. Bro. Anderson affiliated with the Hiram Lodge, No. 46, and became a member of the Research Lodge of

Otago, No. 161, rising to the position of Senior Warden. He was Foundation Master of Lodge St. Clair, No.

246, later serving as Secretary. Grand Lodge recognised his services to the Craft in 1946 with the H.C.

appointment as Past Grand Deacon.

Exalted in Victoria Royal Arch Chapter, No. 4, Napier, in 1921, R.E. Comp. Anderson affiliated with Celtic

Chapter, No. 42, when he moved to Dunedin. He became W. Mark Master and Third Principal J. in 1927,

Second Principal H. in 1928, and First Principal Z. in 1929.

He served Grand Chapter well, being a member of Supreme Committee for a term and was appointed First

Grand Sojourner in 1943. Honoris Causa appointments in Grand Chapter were Past Grand Scribe, N. in 1950

and Past Third Grand Principal J. in 1952.

R.E. Comp. Anderson was admitted to Celtic Royal Ark Mariner's Lodge in 1922 and to the Council of

Knights of the East and West attached to Celtic R.A. Chapter in 1924. He took the Chair Degrees in 1930,

and for many years conducted the Ark Mariner and Red Cross Degrees in Celtic Chapter.

He took the Cryptic Degrees in Celtic Cryptic Council in 1937, and served as T.I.M. in 1945.

Further recognition of his services to Lodge St. Clair and Celtic Chapter was given when .both organisations

elected him an Honorary Member.

Perfected in Sphinx Rose Croix Chapter in 1923, Ill. Bro. Anderson rose to the Thirty-second Degree in the

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. He was M.W.S. of Sphinx Chapter in 1927, and afterwards held the

Secretaryship for a considerable period. He received the Thirtieth Degree in Zealandia Consistory, No. 10, in

1928, and occupied the Grand Commander's Chair in 1933-34. Supreme Council promoted him to the

Thirty-first Degree in 1946 and to the Thirty-second Degree in 1952.

Ven. Frater Anderson was received as a Knight Templar in the Preceptory of Otago in 1923, in which year

he took the Malta Degree and later served as Preceptor and District Grand Sub-prior (from 1949 until his

death).

Bro. Anderson was Advanced and Promoted into the Royal Order of Scotland in 1922, and held numerous

offices in Provincial Grand Lodge of New Zealand of which he was a life member. He was appointed an

honorary member of Provincial Grand Lodge for New Zealand South.

Ill. Knight Anderson was Constituted a Knight of the Red Cross of Constantine in the New Zealand

Conclave, No. 172, in 1932. He took the Appendant Degrees of K.H.S. and Knight of St. John in the

Dunedin Conclave, No. 176, and served as M.P.S. in the latter Conclave. In 1948 Grand Council recognised

his services with the appointment to Past Grand Prefect.

R.W. Bro. Anderson was Inducted into the Order of the Secret Monitor in Otakou Conclave, No. 53, in 1924,

and was Commissioned as Supreme Ruler in 1926. During R.W. Bro. Barclay's term as District Grand

Supreme Ruler, R.W. Bro. Anderson served the Order as District Grand Recorder, and his work was

recognised by Grand Council in 1930, when he was appointed Past Grand Standard Bearer, and again in

1939, whe he was promoted to Past Grand Guide.

During, the past two or three years ill-health had prevented W. Bro. Anderson from active work in the

Fraternity he had served so well over a long period of years. His passing at the age of 87 years was mourned

by a wide circle of Masonic friends, who will long remember him. He has left an indelible mark on

Freemasonry in this District.

St. Matthew's Church, in Stafford Street, Dunedin, was filled with a congregation which included many

representatives of every branch of Freemasonry working in Dunedin when the funeral was held on 13th June.

A most impressive service was conducted in this stately old building by Bro. the Rev. John H. Cable, the

organist being R.W. Bro. Axel Newton, P.G.W.

In an eloquent address in which was incorporated many Masonic references Bro. Cable thanked the Great

Architect for W. Bro. Anderson's long and useful life, both in his private capacity and as a Freemason.

At the graveside at the Anderson's Bay Cemetery the pall-bearers were W. Bro. S. Ewen Lane (Master of

Lodge 1 St. Clair, No. 246), R.E. Comp. C. G. Hedge (representing the Royal Arch), Ill. Bro. W. J.

Davidson, 31° (Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite), Ven. Frater W. Rutherford (Knights Templar), R.W.

Bro. R. H. Cleland (Order of the Secret Monitor) and Ill. Sir Knight R. S. Jack (Red Cross of Constantine

and Royal Order of Scotland). Ill. Bro. Thomas Stuart, 32°, represented V.Ill. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, 33°,

S.G.I.G. for New Zealand South.

The Masonic Funeral Service was conducted by Lodge St. Clair, No. 246, those taking part being the Master

(W. Bro. Lane), Bros. W. H. Kruskopf, R. C. Allenand, B. O. S. Jones, and V.W. Bro. G. S. M. Crawford.

The many floral tributes included wreaths from the many various Masonic organisations of which the late

Bro. Anderson was a member.

—————

W. BRO. VALDEMAR RODE ANDERSON, P.G.D.

Ceased Labour 9th June, 1955

We record with deep regret the death of one of our esteemed Past Masters in the person of W. Bro. Charles

Scott Johnston, who passed away on 9th June, 1955, soon after attaining' his 80th birthday.

W. Bro. Johnston was initiated in Thistle Lodge, No. 113, Ashburton, in 1903, and served as Master of The

Crown Lodge, No. 138, in 1917. He affiliated with The Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge, No. 130, as an

Associate in 1916 and as a Full Member in 1919. He was installed as Master of No. 130 in December, 1925.

W. Bro. Johnston was a Foundation Member of Doric Lodge No. 275 and was Secretary of that Lodge from

1925 to 1952.

He was also Secretary of the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge in 1942 when V.W. Bro. Ross Hepburn was

Master.

W. Bro. Johnston was Chaplain of Lodge No. 130 in 1944 and held this office until he was elected Treasurer

in 1945 on the death of R.W. Bro. C. G. Curtis.

From 1946 to 1952 W. Bro. Johnston also carried out the onerous duty of despatching the Lodge mail. He

was a Trustee of the Lodge from 1945 to 1952.

Over a period of twenty-five years or more W. Bro. Johnston was present at every meeting of The Masters'

and Past Masters' Lodge until recently when ill health prevented his attendance. His services to the Lodge

have been an inspiration to the younger Brethren. His son W. Bro. Harold Johnston (also a P.M. of Lodge

No. 130) is the present Secretary.

W. Bro. Johnston held the office of Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies in the Provincial Grand Lodge

of Canterbury and in 1943 Grand Lodge conferred on him the rank of Past Grand Deacon.

In the Royal Arch W. Bro. Johnston was exalted in St. Augustine Chapter, No. 1. He was installed as First

Principal of Albert Edward R.A. Chapter, No. 6 (Lyttelton), in 1923 and was Grand Scribe N. in Grand

Chapter in 1933. He gave many years of loyal service to Grand Chapter.

Our late Brother had been a member of the Craft for 52 years at the time of his death.

There was a very large gathering of Freemasons present at W. Bro. Johnston's funeral, including M.W. Bro.

C. S. Thompson, Grand Master, M.E. Comp. A. B. Christensen, Past First Grand Principal of Grand Chapter,

R.W. Bro. S. C. Sherrard, Prov.G.M. of Canterbury and R.E. Comp. R. Hepburn, Grand Superintendent of

Canterbury Royal Arch District.

————

W. BRO. ARTHUR C. DRURY, P.G.D.

Many of our readers, particularly those in the Taranaki District, will learn with very sincere regret of the

death at New Plymouth on the 26th March of W. Bro. Arthur C. Drury, P.G.D., at the age of 76.

For well over 40 years W. Bro. Drury gave faithful service, and took a keen and active interest in all

branches of Freemasonry with which he was connected. He was held in the highest esteem by all with whom

he came in contact for his kindly disposition, and willingness at all times to render assistance and sound

advice whenever it was required. It was in Lodge Waimarino, No. 175, that he joined Freemasonry in 1912,

and after serving in several of the offices was installed as W.M. in 1919. He was a Charter Member of Lodge

Te Henui, No. 272, when it was founded in 1925, and remained a member of that Lodge until his death. He

also held office in Grand Lodge as a member of the Board of General Purposes in 1938 and again in 1940,

and as Senior Grand Deacon in 1941.

Our late Brother also took a very prominent part in Royal Arch activities. After occupying several of the

offices in Ruapehu R.A. Chapter, No. 19, he was installed as its First Principal Z. in 1922, and re-elected and

installed for a second term in 1923. He was also a Charter member of Waimarino R.A. Chapter No. 50.

On his removal to New Plymouth he linked up with Paritutu Chapter, No. 5, and in 1927, was installed as

Third Principal J. to fill a vacancy. He also held the offices of W.C.N. in the Ark Mariners Lodge and

M.E.C. in the Council of R.C. Knights in this Chapter for 3 years. In Supreme Grand Chapter he was elected

G.Supt. of Works in 1939, and installed as Third Grand Principal J. in 1939, and was the Representative of

the Grand Chapter of Mississippi at the Grand Chapter of N.Z.

He joined the Rose Croix in Lathom Chapter, No. 93, in 1923, and was a Founder and Charter Member of

Taranaki Rose Croix where he held office as its second M.W.S. for two years. He was also a Charter

Member of Pukekura Chap. and took part in the formation of Waimarino Chapter of which he was the first

M.W.S.

He was one of the Founders of the Preceptory of Taranaki where he was installed as Preceptor and Prior in

1934 and later held various offices in the District Grand Priory.

W. Bro. Drury certainly lived a very full Masonic life and he will be sadly missed, not only by his Brethren

in Freemasonry but by his numerous friends throughout New Zealand.

————

W. BRO. J. Y. ALEXANDER, P.M.
Ceased Labour 11th November, 1954

We record with deep regret the death of W. Bro. John Young Alexander, Senior Warden of the Masters' and

Past Masters' Lodge, No. 130, who passed away on 11th November last after some months' illness.

W. Bro. Alexander was initiated in United Forces Lodge, No. 245, and after serving the usual offices was

installed as Master in 1946.

He joined the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge as an Associate many years ago and was elected as a Full

Member in 1946 on attaining the necessary qualification.

At the time of his death he was Senior Warden of Lodge No. 130 but had requested to be permitted to remain

in office as Senior Warden for another year owing to the state of his health.

Although W. Bro. Alexander had been ill for some months, his death just four days before the meeting at

which the election of Master for the ensuing year was to take place, was quite unexpected and was a shock to

his many Masonic friends.

W. Bro. Alexander was a Foundation Member of Lodge Centennial, No. 358, and held office in that Lodge

for some years.

In the Royal Arch W. Bro. Alexander was exalted in Prince of Wales Royal Arch Chapter, No. 31, in 1947.

At the time of his death he held office as Second Sojourner having declined higher office for the time being

for health reasons.

W. Bro. Alexander, who was in business as an electrical engineer, possessed a very fine sound set which he

placed freely at the disposal of the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge and indeed of his Masonic friends

generally. It was characteristic of W. Bro. Alexander that not only did he refuse to accept any payment for

his services but that he specially requested that his name should not be mentioned as having supplied the

sound set at our meetings. He was ever willing to place the sound set at the disposal either of the Lodge or of

the Editor personally if the latter were giving a lecture in the Temple at Gloucester Street, and if he was

unable to attend the meeting concerned, he would arrange for another qualified Brother to be present and

operate the set.

The Brethren of this Lodge, and indeed the members of all Masonic bodies to which W. Bro. Alexander

belonged mourn the passing of one who can well be described as "a true and faithful Brother among us".

v v v

A HIGHLIGHT IN THE HISTORY OF A LODGE OF RESEARCH

In our May issue we recorded a visit by the Master and Brethren of the United Masters' Lodge, No. 167, of

Auckland, to a very successful combined meeting of the Lodges of the Waikato District at Hamilton.

The wish was then expressed that a similar meeting might be held in Auckland, to allow the many Country

and Associate Members of the Lodge to see it at work and to take part in the proceedings.

This was soon arranged, and took place in the Masonic Temple, St. Benedict's Street, at '7.30 p.m. on

Saturday, 25th June, just on 150 being present.

The meeting was remarkable for the attendance of Masters and Brethren of Lodges as far apart as Kaitaia in

the extreme North and Taumarunui, 394 miles away in the South, and from Auckland to Te Puke, 153 miles

to the South East.

After opening the Lodge, the Master, V.W. Bro. G. H. Robertson, P.G.Lec., explained that the meeting had

been specially arranged for the convenience of the Masters and Brethren of Associate Lodges, and Associate

Members, who were usually unable to attend, and he was extremely gratified by their response. While

warmly welcoming all, he must make special mention of those who had travelled long distances to be

present; and he wished to specially thank the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, for his interest

and attendance.

Purposely, the proceedings were directed into the same form as at an ordinary meeting of the Lodge;

addresses were given, by V.W. Bro. W. H. V. Taine, P.G.Lec., on the Symbolism of the First Degree, and by

V.W. Bro. R. F. Newton, P.G.Lec., on the History of the Craft; what they had said was reviewed and

commented upon by the Master and by W. Bro. A. L. Blank, I.P.M. of the Lodge, and some points further

elucidated.

Questions on the work of the evening were then invited, and from the number which were asked it was plain

that the proceedings had been followed with keen interest; both questions and answers provoked a free and

animated discussion, in which many Brethren took part and which was evidently much enjoyed by all

present.

But probably the feature of the meeting which will live longest in the memory was the presentation of

Fraternal ' Greetings by Brethren usually "sundered far", but for once meeting on common ground; it could

be sensed that they were being conveyed not only to the Master, and that he was happy that it should be so.

The Provincial Grand Master and Officers of Grand Lodge remained to hear them, and no doubt, as all did,

found them of unusual interest.

Following the greetings and congratulations of Grand Lodge, expressed by R.W. Bro. Faber, came those

conveyed by the Masters and Brethren of the following Lodges:—

Northland District.—Kaitaia, No. 361.

Auckland District.—Ara, No. 1, Wairoa, No. 55, Papakura, No. 56, Franklin, No. 58, United Waiuku, No.

90, Maungawhao, No. 168, Orewa, No. 182, Takapuna, No. 202, Morningside, No. 228, St. James, No. 244,

Hauraki Plains, No. 249, Arawhaiti, No. 267, Selwyn, No. 274, Ararangi, No. 297, Howick, No. 314, Peace,

No. 322, Tamaki, No. 328, Herne Bay, No. 340, and Maungakiekie, No. 373.

Waikato District.— Beta/Waikato, No. 12, Te Aroha, No. 52, Alpha, No. 81, Taupiri, No. 118, Plunket, No.

163, Tawhiri, No. 166, Naumai, No. 177, Te Marama, No. 186, Te Puke, No. 261, Hamilton, No. 291, and

Hillcrest, No. 363.

District Grand Lodge of England.—Waitemata, No. 689, Greca, No. 1105 (Cairo), Prince of Wales, No.

1338, Eden, No. 1530, Remuera, No. 1710, Rodney, No. 1711, and Te Awamutu, No. 2221.

District Grand Lodge of Scotland (North Island).—Ponsonby, No. 708.

The Master, in acknowledging the greetings and good wishes of Brethren, said that the meeting had been so

happy and so profitable that the Lodge must consider arranging others of a similar kind at suitable times in

the future.

(PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND)

————

MEXICO — 1954

Proceedings of the York Grand Lodge of Mexico, 94th Annual Communication, 1954.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. V. E. Metcalfe.

Grand Master (elected): M.W. Bro. W. Webber.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. C. C. Brown.

Grand representative of New Zealand W. Bro. W. Peasland.

Grand representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. W. A. Waters, P.G.W., Palmerston North.

10 Lodges, 607 members, net loss, 2.

This Grand Lodge had held its own in every way during the year, except that the response to the efforts of

the committee on Masonic education appeared to have been negligible within the territory. The committee's

publication, the Trestle Board, much prized in other territories on the American continent and overseas,

appeared to have been little regarded in Mexico. The convener of the committee expressed his

disappointment and proposed measures for a new approach.

————

MANITOBA — 1954

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, 1954.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. G. A. McMorran.

Grand Master (elected): M.W. Bro. H. H. Gray. Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. T. C. Jackson.

Grand representative of New Zealand: R.W. Bro. S. Burland.

Grand representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. R. W. Carpenter, P.Prov.G.M., Waipukurau.

111 Lodges, 15-176 members, net increase 292.

The new Grand Master introduced and strongly urged support of the following suggestion: that a fund be

created by personal contributions from the brethren of the Jurisdiction; such a fund to be known as the

Masonic Brotherhood Disaster Fund for means of identifying it at the present time, and that the amount of

the fund be set at $25,000.00. This suggestion was heartily endorsed, and approval was given to authorise the

Finance Committee to advance a sum of up to $600 as a loan to take care of the necessary publicity that

would be involved.

It was two and a half months after the Annual Communication that the new Grand Master was installed, but

during the latter part of his term of office his health had improved to the point where he was able worthily to

play his full part in the work of Grand Lodge.

The Grand Historian gave an admirable address, of which the key sentence is this: "Here in Manitoba we

regard the Selkirk Settlers as the foundation builders of this great Province." Starting with the rebellion of

1745 he traced the history of the Sutherland people through the clearances and on to about the year 1816.

There are approximately 800 volumes in the Circulating section of the Library. For the larger proportion of

these books there is little or no demand, yet they remain a useful part of the Library. There are about 25 or 30

Titles that are most frequently requested, covering Phildsophy and Symbolism, Degrees and Rites, and to a

lesser degree, the History of Freemasonry. A total of 54 books have been added to the Library, all by

purchase except two which were donated, and which have been duly acknowledged. Most of these books

were additional copies of some already in the Library and which were found to be in fairly constant demand.

————

NEW SOUTH WALES — 1954

Proceedings and Sixty-Sixth Annual Report of the

United Grand Lodge of New South Wales for the

year ended June, 1954. The volume includes reports

of the Quarterly and two Special Communications.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. H.E. Lt.-

General Sir John Northcott (re-elected).

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. J. S. Miller.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: M.W. Bro.

A. Halloran.

Grand Representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. J.

Rod, P.Dep.G.M., Wellington.

823 Lodges, 129,093 members, net gain, 3,053.

The Council of the William Thompson Masonic

School reports that since 30th April, 1953, twenty

girls and thirty-five boys have been admitted to the

School. The total number of children now in

residence is 267, comprising 95 girls, 104 junior

boys and 68 senior boys. All five girls' cottages and five boys' cottages are occupied. During the year, 19

girls and 33 boys, having completed their education, left the School, and positions were found for them by

the N.S.W. Masonic School Welfare Fund. Among the acknowledgments is one of the very practical services

of various Brethren who act as Honorary Medical Officers, Dentists, Picture Operators, Car Drivers, Sunday

School Teachers and Hairdressers.

The report of the N.S.W. Masonic Hospital Board discloses an excellent position. Dr. Ratcliffe, an expert in

hospital administration, made a survey and investigation and reported in most glowing terms on what he

found.

Most items of expenditure have been stabilised. The number of patients admitted during the year was 1,691,

51 more than the year before; 1,434 operations were performed, an increase of 75.

————

NEW BRUNSWICK — 1954

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New Brunswick, 1954.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. R. T. Pearson (re-elected).

Grand Secretary: V.W. Bro. R. D. Magee.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. B. A. Atkinson.

Grand Representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. W. G. Mason, P.Dep.G.M., Auckland.

46 Lodges, 8,855 members, net gain 203.

Steps are being taken to tighten up methods of investigation of the suitability of candidates; the action taken

following on a survey of methods in force elsewhere in the Craft.

The Grand Master spoke of the evil of chain letters, which had again made their appearance in this as in

other jurisdictions; condemning them as un-Masonic and superstitious. He urged the need for Fifty Year

recognition, which is now very general in the Craft. The greater part of his address dealt with Fortitude as a

Masonic quality, and with the particular need for that quality in the society of today.

————

MONTANA — 1954

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Montana, Special Communications . . . and the Ninetieth Annual Com-

munication held at Great Falls, August, 1954.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. J. E. Patterson.

Grand Master (elected): M.W. Bro. E. S. Bardwell.

Grand. Secretary: R.W. Bro. B. F. Gaither.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. S. A. Holt.

Grand Representative in New Zealand: V.W. Bro. J. G. L. Hewitt, P.G.Reg., Marton.

138 Lodges, 25,432 members, net gain 553.

The report of the Committee on Correspondence is printed as a separate document, and each Grand Repre-

sentative reports on the activities of the Grand Lodge he represents. W. Bro. Holt reports enthusiastically on

our 1952 proceedings, and mentions the correspondence he has had over the years with V.W. Bro. J. G. L.

Hewitt.

Concern has been felt about the size of many Lodges. A Committee set up to study the matter obtained

material on surveys made and action taken in other jurisidictions, notably California, New York and

Pennsylvania. Various actions have been taken.

Montana has 139 Chartered Lodges with a membership of 24,879 (figures taken from previous Proceedings).

The approximate average membership of all Lodges is 180. There are 13 Lodges with memberships of 400

or over: it can be seen that the position is not so extreme as in some other jurisdictions.

Where accommodation is available Lodges appear to be very willing to sponsor the formation of new

Lodges, and the Committee reached the conclusion that the problem would solve itself in this way and by the

acquisition of new Lodge properties, which is proceeding. There is a fairly widespread view that this is a

local problem capable of being dealt with locally, and that with good fortune there should be no need for

Grand Lodge action.

The Grand Lodge having some time before decided on the publication of a "manual of floor work", it was

reported that copies of the manual had been prepared and sent to the Secretaries of Lodges for the use of the

Lodge instructors.

————

SCOTLAND — 1954-55

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Scotland from February, 1954, to January, 1955.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. The Rt. Hon. Lord Macdonald.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. A. F. Buchan.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. J. M. Carruthers.

Grand Representative in New Zealand: M.W. Bro. G. Russell, P.G.M., Wellington.

At a Quarterly Communication held in Freemasons' Hall, Edinburgh, on 4th February, 1954, Bro. Alexander

J. McHardy, P.M., was appointed Grand Treasurer as from - 1st July, 1954. Members of the Grand

Committee were elected.

During the year the Grand Master had attended the 300th Anniversary Celebrations of Lodge Ancient Brazen

No. 17, at Linlithgow, and deputations had also attended at the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of Lodge

Progress, Dundee, No. 967, the 200th Anniversary Celebrations of Lodge Kelso, No. 58 and of Lodge Keith,

Peterhead, No.. 56, and the 75th Anniversary celebrations of Lodge Buchan St. John, Broxburn, No. 636.

In the report of the Masonic Homes Committee it was stated that Ault Wharrie might now be considered as a

firmly established and integral part of the benevolent work of Grand Lodge.

Recommendations from sub-committees to Grand Committees included these: To move Grand Lodge to

grant a Petition for a new Lodge at New Delhi, under the title of Lodge East and West; To grant a duplicate

Charter to Lodge Han Yang, No. 1048, to replace that lost during the invasion of 1950; To move Grand

Lodge to grant a Petition for a Charter for a proposed new Lodge in Glasgow under the title Century.

Bro. Daniel S. C. McNeill, Proxy District Grand Master of New Zealand North, remains active on various

committees, including Grand Committee.

(Note.—A fuller review of Scottish affairs will appear as usual on publication of the Year Book.)

————

VICTORIA — 1954

United Grand Lodge of Victoria, Quarterly Communication held at The Town Hall, Melbourne, 24th March,

1954.

Grand Master (re-elected). M.W. Bro. H. E. Sir Dallas Brooks.

Pro. Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. T. Baillie.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. C. W. Davis.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: V.W. Bro. A. E. Wright.

Grand Representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. T. Johnston, P.Prov.G.M., Dunedin.

747 Lodges, 103,776 members, net gain, 4,140.

Among the visitors attending was R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, P.D.G.M., Concord Lodge, No. 39, New

Zealand.

Acknowledgments were received from the Private Secretary to H.M. the Queen and from the Private

Secretary to H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh, to the Loyal Address presented on the occasion of the Royal

Visit by the Grand Master, on behalf of the Freemasons of Victoria.

1,588 patients were treated at the Freemasons' Hospital during the year: 1,345 operations were performed.

Grand Lodge has approved of the erection of a new 48-bed wing with complete X-ray and Pathology

services at a cost of £ A140,000.

On behalf of the Grand Master (who was absent officially farewelling Her Majesty the Queen at Mildura) the

Pro. Grand Master received from the Board of General Purposes a Ceremonial Sword for use on Grand

occasions.

————

WESTERN AUSTRALIA 1954

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Western Australia from May, 1953, to May, 1954.

Grand Master (presiding): M.W. Bro. J. A. Ellis.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. N. J. Munro.

Grand Representative of New Zealand: R.W. Bro. S. A. Taylor:

Grand Representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. W. Martin, Dep.G.M., Dunedin.

287 Lodges, 20,681 members, net gain, 633.

The Book of Constitution was amended to bring it into line with ancient practice by the addition of a new

Regulation as follows:

"177A. No" Lodge shall, except by express leave of the Grand Master initiate into Freemasonry any person

who has in any way been connected with an organisation which is quasi-Masonic, imitative of Freemasonry,

or regarded by the Grand Lodge is irregular or incompatible with the Craft.

"A brother who at any time after his initiation shall in any way be connected or associated with or visit any

such organisation shall, when required by the Board of General Purposes so to do, forthwith, in such manner

as may be required by the Board, renounce such organisation and finally sever his connection therewith, and

in default of his so doing shall be liable to be expelled."

The mover said: "This motion was put forward at the instruction of the Board of General Purposes. . . -. The

Australasian Masonic Conference held in 1928, made a recommendation to the Grand Lodges of Australia

that no Freemason be permitted to attend any meeting of, or be a member of, the Order of the Eastern Star,

and that no meeting of that Order be permitted in any Lodge room. That recommendation was adopted by

this Grand Lodge on 28th February, 1929. It is well known that branches of the Order of the Eastern Star are

established in this State. From time to time succeeding Grand Masters have drawn attention of members of

this Grand Lodge to the prohibition- adopted by the Grand Lodge in 1929.

"In addition, there is established in this jurisdiction, a body known as Co-Masonry, which admits women, as

well as men, to membership. According to the original plan of Freemasonry, no woman can be a Freemason.

Every brother is pledged to discountenance all dissenters from the original plan of Freemasonry, and that it is

not within the power of any man to make innovations in the body of Masonry. . ."

The Grand Master condemned refectory raffles for the purpose of raising money for the benevolent funds.

The Grand Master announced that the M.W. Grand Master of New Zealand had recommended R.W. Bro. W.

Martin, Dep.G.M., to be the future Grand representative in New Zealand, and that the Grand Master had

approved the appointment.

In the review of foreign correspondence there is a note that New Zealand has no review.

Representative in New Zealand: R.W. Bro. W. Martin, Dep.G.M.

v v v

FREEMASONRY NOT A REFORM SYSTEM

There are many varied opinions held by non-Masons as to what the Fraternity is and what it does. One of the

more popular ones seems to be that it is some kind of great personal reform agency. When a man becomes a

Mason some mysterious change is supposed to be wrought in him. Whatever he may have been before, once

he has been accepted as a member of the Order the experience he undergoes is expected to make him over

into a paragon of virtue.

Where that idea came from is not known. Certainly Masonry itself never did and does not now make any

such claims. When Masons speak of the Great Light they are not seeking to convey the thought that once a

man is admitted into the Lodge he experiences a marvellous and supernatural illumination and a spiritual

regeneration such as will erase all bad characteristics and substitute for them noble principles of the highest

order. Yet many people believe that is the purpose and the mission of the Craft. The secrets of Masonry are

thought by them to be some form of occult which once seen have the power instantly to alter lifetime habits

and make a man into something wholly different from what he was before.

Any sincere Mason could explain that this seldom, if ever, happens. He can explain also that it is not

expected to happen, and that Masonly never was and is not now a reform movement in the sense by which

the term is generally understood. Neither are Masons "reformers" within the usual meaning of that word.

Masonry does not go out into the highways and byways seeking evil, sinful men whom it may then reform

into upright and honourable citizens. If the Lodges of Freemasonry tried to do that, the whole scheme and

purpose of Masonry would be changed, and it would become a church.

Masonry makes no secret of the fact it never invites or solicits applications for membership from anybody.

Nor does it hold secret the additional fact that only men of good repute, honourable men who have already

demonstrated the quality of character that is likely to fit itself to Masonic standards, will be acceptable. Such

men do not need reforming. But that type of man will rejoice in the clear interpretation of noble principles

Masonry can give him. He will find great happiness in the fellowship of Brethren who are like-minded. He

will find that in their company and in research with them to discover ways and means of applying the deep

wisdom distilled from ages of experience, his mental and spiritual stature grows. In it he will meet the unity

and brotherhood so generous, long-suffering, kindly and charitable that all honest, sincere men so much

desire.

The purpose of Masonry is to help good men to maintain those standards and to become even better men.

Through fellowship and ever-ready assistance it endeavours to help each Brother in his own effort to subdue

his passions, to offer him comfort, aid and strength in times of need, to rejoice with him in his victories. This

does not mean compelling him to warp his nature into a pattern arbitrarily set by a formulated code. Nor does

it mean the surrender of individual opinion. It demands only that he conform to the spirit of brotherhood and

that his conduct be so regulated that no act of his shall bring harm or distress to his brethren.

So far as any reforming process is concerned, Masons believe that their best contribution can be presented by

example. If by their living, by their acts, members of the Fraternity prove the principles of honour, justice,

truth and charity can be successfully used to weld men of goodwill into a genuine brotherhood motivated by

these qualities the effect will be of greater value to society than any attempt at outright reforming. It is in this

way the world at large can best be convinced of Masonry's good effects.

—"Masonic Chronicler."

v v v

NO SECRET CREED

The word "secret" as it is generally used in connection with Freemasonry by the uninitiated world—and

sometimes by Freemasons—is usually misapplied. Most people consider Masonic secrets to be some

intelligence, mystery, system or plan that is revealed only to members. Whatever this may be, it is presumed

that Freemasons carefully hide it, keep it secret from the profane world.

Doubtless this connection came down to the present age from earlier centuries when Freemasonry was

almost wholly practised as an operative art. The secrets so zealously guarded in those days were scientific

and artisan in character. They had to do with the building trade. Their art was more concerned with the

economic field than with the esoteric. They were secrets of geometry, of physics and architecture, and they

could be learnt only through the teaching of masters and by admission to their guilds. To maintain the Master

Builders, as well as the integrity of the art, the number and quality of those admitted had to be very closely

regulated. And all were required to keep secret the knowledge and skill imparted to them.

We know that some form of ritual was used when a new candidate was initiated into the guild. -Certain

signs, symbols, passwords and tokens were taught and used to make sure only those entitled to be present

could attend a lodge where secrets would be revealed.

Those signs, symbols and passwords occuring in the ritual are all that remain secret in the "speculative" form

of Freemasonry as practised today. This is regarded necessary, because to retain the integrity, usefulness and

purity of the fraternity, the membership and therefore admittance to a Lodge, must be restricted to those

whom investigation proves will be comformable to its principles. These secrets deal only with simple

mechanical or functional procedure, and any other significance they have is slight.

However, there are many deep and wonderful

Masonic secrets to be found in the teachings of the

Craft—so many that no man has yet discovered them

all nor any man plumbed their depth. And these are

the secrets about which the world—and many

Freemasons—are uninformed. These are secrets of

truth, of life and how to live, hidden in the so-called

mysteries of Freemasonry. Freemasonry did not

create them nor does it own them. They are part of

the manifold secrets of creation, of the diversity of

the universe, of the reasons for the making of man

and the establishment of his part in this grand

scheme of creation. Freemasonry does not, and it is

not, intended to hide these secrets. Its purpose is to

reveal them. The fraternity thus becomes a channel,

a path, a system of thought by which men who agree

upon the fundamental fact of Deity may proceed

through study and fellowship to find and apply those

hidden secrets in daily living.

These secrets have nothing to do with dogma or theology. They deal with an expanding philosophy rather

than a definite creed. And instead of hiding them when found, Freemasons are taught to reveal them in the

most effective way ever taught to man—by exemplifying them in daily life. Therefore, when we speak of the

secrets of Freemasonry we do not refer to any hidden wisdom kept from others, nor to ritualistic method by

which a lodge must be conducted. We do not speak of 'anything possessed by or peculiar to Freemasonry.

Instead, we mean universal truth which is revealed to us through the study and practice of Freemasonry.

Others may discover the same facts, or truth, by different approaches. All of Masonry sincerely hope they

will, and rejoice when they do. In fact, nearly all Freemasons are active in other organisations and groups,

aiding as they may in the world wide search for the truth that shall make men free.

Those who join Freemasonry, or who have joined it, expecting some magic veil to be lifted to reveal hitherto

hidden secrets of tremendous import, will be disappointed. And those who think Freemasonry conceals such

secrets are in error. —"Wisconsin Freemason."