BY NUMBERS
Not all Grand Lodges publish their statistics of membership in readily accessible form, but it was

interesting, to go over the article in last month's issue of THE CRAFTSMAN and see what had happened in

the United States and Canada. The Grand Lodge of Iowa had published statistics for these two nations in

its Bulletin of September, 1961. There is a summary table showing a declining increase in membership

from 1955 to 1960, with finally a decrease in 1961. This table covers the United States only, and the

figures are:—

Members

1955 3,964,657 71,946 increase

1956 4,013,126 48,469 increase

1957 4,059,671 46,545 increase

1958 4,087,042 27,371 increase

1959 4,101,057 14,051 increase

1960 4,104,003 2,946 increase

1961 4,100,139 3,864 decrease

This is a very steady decline, possibly susceptible of some explanation in the light of cost of living and

other causes, but very hard to interpret fully and correctly. It represents, moreover, nominal membership,

without reference to lodge attendance. Judging from the comments of the various Grand Masters in their

Installation Addresses low percentage attendance is an equally serious problem.

It was interesting, too, to notice that for the last complete year, which resulted in the net loss of 3,864

shown above, the total United States membership stood at 4,100,139 as against Canada's 259,282: the

average number of members in a United States Lodge being 260 and the average number in a Canadian

lodge being 166. Canada showed a small nett gain over the year. Tempting as it may be to draw

conclusions from the respective average sizes of the lodges in the two countries, it would perhaps be a

mistake to take that argument too far. No doubt the occasional very large lodge in the United States, with

a membership of over four figures, does present particular problems, and it would scarcely be possible for

all the members to know one another—a difficult matter sometimes when the membership is between 100

and 200. But these lodges are the exception and there are, many many small lodges in the United States.

Where it is impossible to prove it is sometimes interesting to speculate, and one might with advantage

look around for some particular circumstance which has mainly been instrumental in turning a nett gain

of 71,946 in 1955 into a nett loss of 3,846 in 1961.

Those who read American journals or who have visited the United States within the last few years must

have been impressed by the resurgence of religious observance. People throng to church in great

numbers, and every kind of religion flourishes. Not by any means all of the increase can be attributed to a

growth in the influence of the long-established sects, with their fully-formulated systems of dogmatics. It

may be that the man who used to feel the need for worship but lacked the capacity to accept dogma, who

often used to find a home in Freemasonry, making of it a kind of substitute for religion, now finds

himself more at home in a newly established church. If that be the case, the Craft has no cause to

complain, for Freemasonry has never set itself up as a religion, but instead has done its best to confirm

each man in his own religious observance. It is nevertheless a pity if men are being drawn off for this

reason, for there is room for both observances, and the Craft needs those who take their religious duties

seriously no less, certainly, than it needs anyone else.

To-day is in many ways the age of direct and simple statement (if we except scientific, professional and

official jargon of all kinds). At least it is an age where the parable and the allegory, the story with a

moral, are less common currency than they were. Highly condensed and allusive phrases and wisecracks

are more common currency. It is in many ways an age of realism. It is possible that the allegory and the

symbols of the Craft are a less appropriate way to men's imaginations than they once were. It is possible,

and it is worth investigating but it does not seem likely that this is the explanation, for the very reason

that organised religion, which really does appear to be increasing its influence, relies on parable,

illustration, colour, meaningful ceremony in just the same way that the Craft does. Wherein lies the

difference?

A possible explanation, and it is sad if it is

the correct one, is that Masonry has little

changed its character. It is not possible for

any man or body of men to make changes in

the body of Freemasonry. It is nevertheless

impossible for anything relying on human

observance to remain quite the same for any

great length of time. It may be that with the

high degree of organisation we have today in

our ceremonial observance, we have too

many members who do not touch the core of

Masonry—who do not see it a society which

is a service society under the aegis of the

Almighty Creator; but as a social club. Within

Freemasonry the pleasures of social

intercourse should be but one of the reasons

which compel one's loyalty, and cer- • tainly

not the main one. In short, it is just possible

that if we all took the Craft a little more

seriously, as we believe many of our ancient

Brethren did, we might find that it retained

more of us within its compass.

Business of Grand Lodge at

1961 Communication
The business of the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand at Auckland in

November, which had seemed likely to extend over two days because of the length of the agenda, was

actually accomplished in two sessions on the one day. The most contentious matters were deferred for

further consideration.

The President of the Board of Benevolence (V.W. Bro. L. A. Doolan), said that during the year the Board

had been able to help a larger number of necessitous cases, and in a more liberal manner, because of the

expanding generosity and charitable attitude of the Masons of the Dominion. Forty-eight new annuities

had been granted, bringing the number up to 246, representing an annual charge of £21,646. This meant

that £416 was paid out weekly to annuitants. The demand on charity continued to increase,

notwithstanding that we lived in a Welfare State. The increase during the year in payments to new

annuitants was £4,202, £81 a week above the previous year's figure. In addition, the Board also paid out

of the Fund of Benevolence grants to the total of £3,002 to help 26 urgent and needy cases. Nineteen new

interest-free mortgages and six further advances were approved during the year, amounting to £17,896,

making a grand total of £157,334 out on interest-free mortgages. The Board had also given considerable

help, £8,000, to the Northern Masonic Association to assist the fine Roskill Masonic Home in Auckland,

and a further £8,000 was to be paid in the coming year. This would make a total of £34,881 paid to the

home in the last five years.

V.W. Bro. Doolan remarked that it must be quite evident to the Brethren, from the figures he had quoted,

that their contributions to the benevolent funds must be kept up to the least £1 per capita.

It is most important that the above notice be

adhered to each month as our printing schedule

has been brought forward a week in order that

your "Craftsman" be delivered on time.

Final copy is delivered to our printers on the

afternoon of the 10th of each month.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Have you paid your subscription for the current

year ? All accounts are out, and your co-operation

in this matter will be much appreciated.

When the report of the Board of General Purposes was being considered, the President of the Board,

V.W. Bro. W. H. Tucker, advised that W. Bro. N. D. Booth, who had been recommended for the office of

Grand Director of Ceremonies in the South Auckland District, had accepted the invitation of the Grand

Master to become Assistant Provincial Grand Master. Grand Lodge therefore accepted a recommendation

that W. Bro. George L. G. Sharp; P.G.S., be elected in place of W. Bro. Booth as Grand Director of

Ceremonies.

Referring to the general condition of the Craft, V.W. Bro. Tucker said the Craft continued to advance by

constituting more Lodges, increasing in membership, by new buildings, and by improving old buildings.

The problem, however, was to hold the interest of the members and thus increase attendances and reduce

resignations. "Nevertheless", he said, "it is pleasing to know that the number of Brethren who resigned in

arrears or were struck off in arrears is less this year than in any year since 1956. Although the number of

135 this year is constituted low, and is very low in proportion to our membership when compared with

the published figures of other Grand Lodges, it still is enough to emphasise the recommendations made

by successive Boards as to the necessity of the strictest investigation into the standing, character, and

suitability of candidates before they are recommended for initiation".

Reviewing the position after the first full year of occupation of the new Grand Lodge headquarters

building in Wellington, V.W. Bro. Tucker said the charge for interest would rapidly diminish so that a

surplus would be shown, even after permitting the offices of Grand Lodge to be rent free. The Board of

General Purposes proposed to liquidate the company (Masonic Offices, Ltd.), when its purpose had been

served, and to include the property in the assets of the Fund of Benevolence.

In recognition of the valuable services in Masonic education rendered by the Lodges of Research, the

Board recommended that the grant be raised from £400 to £500 per annum, and Grand Lodge approved.

It was decided that the 1962 Communication be held in Rotorua (South Auckland District).

LODGE BUILDINGS

There was lengthy debate on a motion by M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, P.G.M., pursuant to notice given in

November, 1960, for the rescission of a resolution at that Communication directing the Board of General

Purposes to prepare amendments to the Constitution enabling the loaning to Lodges from the

accumulated funds of moneys for building and renovating Lodges' rooms and refectories. M.W. Bro.

Faber argued that trustees should not loan trust funds to themselves, and said he believed this would

virtually be the position if the Widows and Orphans and Aged Persons Fund was used to assist Lodges to

build and repair Lodge Rooms. For this reason he felt that the action contemplated was unethical.

Disharmony would result if some districts, having financed and maintained their Lodge Rooms without

assistance from Grand Lodge, were then called upon to finance Lodges which neither maintained their

buildings nor contributed generously to the charity funds. Furthermore, he believed it would

detrimentally affect the amount collected for the charity funds as Lodges would tend to be influenced by

the success or otherwise of any Loan application they might make. "The 'borrower-lender' relationship,

under the best of circumstances is seldom a satisfactory one", he said, "and I consider its introduction into

Masonry could do a great deal of harm". A

further reason why he had brought forward his

motion was that the drastic step involved in the -

resolution at- the last Communication had been

carried by too narrow a margin and a majority of

nine, with 16 informal votes, and many delegates

CHANGE OF ADDRESS-"CRAFTSMAN"

Journals bearing the following addresses have been

returned to this office marked, "Gone, no

Address".

Should any Lodge Secretary or Brother know the

present address of any of these Brethren, we would

be pleased to receive their advices.

A. R. Aitken, 93 Catherine St., Invercargill.

M. D. Gillard, 44 Edenburgh St., Pukekohe.

D. W. C. McLean, Riverton.

without voting papers. The matter was given thorough discussion, and M.W. Bro. Faber's rescinding

motion, which had the support of the Board of General Purposes, was carried on a show of hands.

A motion was then carried instructing the Board of General Purposes to consider the advisability of

continuing the Grand Lodge Building Fund Levy for five years after the cessation of the present levy

period, for the purpose of assisting Lodges wishing to build or alter their premises.

GRAND LODGE ACCOUNTS

Grand Lodge approved a series of proposals by the Board of General Purposes for amendments to the

Constitution with the object of simplifying the accounts and levies, thus making them easier to administer

and to understand. Summarised, the Board's proposals were to join the administration funds — the Fund

of General Purposes and the Representation Fund — into one, with one levy; to combine the charitable

funds under the name "The Fund of Benevolence"; to eliminate the Masonic bursary levy and make

Masonic bursaries a charge on the Fund of Benevolence; and to give authority to liquidate, at a suitable

time, Masonic Offices Ltd., and transfer its assets to the Fund of Benevolence.

MANAGEMENT OF THE CRAFT

The report of the Special Committee appointed to investigate the general management of the Craft

(details of the report with its recommendations, were published in the last issue of "The Craftsman"), was

dealt with clause by clause. Most of the submissions of the Committee had the approval of the Board of

General Purposes and were adopted. It was thus agreed that there should be no change in the present

system of electing the Grand Master, the Deputy Grand Master, the Provincial Grand Masters, and the

Wardens, and that the peripatetic system for the Boards of General Purposes and Benevolence, the Grand

Treasurer, and the Grand Registrar should continue.

Under the section relating to the Boards of General Purposes and Benevolence, it was approved that the

Boards should meet not less than four times a year. A proposal to reduce the number of elected members

of the Boards resident in the Executive District from 12 to eight was rejected. It was agreed that although

the Executive Officers should hold Office for two years, the remaining elected members should be

elected for one year only and be eligible for re-election.

The Board approved, and Grand Lodge endorsed, a proposal that Provincial Grand Masters be

recommended to consult the Senior Officers of Grand Lodge in their districts when considering

nominations for office in Grand Lodge. The idea of reducing the number of Grand Directors of

Ceremonies to five, one being allocated to each of the major districts, did not find favour.

Grand Lodge approved a recommendation by the Board that a suggestion that each of the five Divisions

be placed under the charge of a Divisional Grand Master who would have under his jurisdiction a number

of District Grand Masters should be submitted to the Lodges for their consideration. It was agreed that

there was no warrant at present for increasing the annual number of appointments to Honorary Past

Grand Rank.

Though the Board of General Purposes approved a recommendation that the rule permitting proxy voting

for Masters and Wardens not in attendance at Grand Lodge be repealed, on a show of hands, Grand

Lodge took a different view and the proposal was lost. An amendment that the matter be referred to the

Lodges for their opinions was also defeated. No action is to be taken on a submission that the Trustees of

Grand Lodge should be permanently domiciled in Wellington. An amendment to the Constitution is to be

made requiring at least 30 Lodges in a Provincial Grand Lodge.

A Unique Honour for a

Past Grand Master
The December meeting of Lodge Ara, No. 348, I.C., was attended by M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, P.G.M.,

who was accompanied on his entry by R.W. Bro. A. A. Bodley, Senior Grand Warden, and a number of

other officers of Grand Lodge; they were received and warmly welcomed by R.W. Bro. John Clark,

Provincial Grand Master for New Zealand, LC., who was supported by many officers of his Provincial

Grand Lodge.

The principal business was to announce to the gathering of brethren, which filled Ara's beautiful temple

to capacity, the conferring of a unique honour upon M.W. Bro. Faber, and to present to him the beautiful

Jewel of Gold which is the relative token, together with the Apron of the Irish Constitution.

R.W. Bro. Clark addressed the distinguished visitor in these terms—

Most Worshipful Brother Faber,

This is the first opportunity I have had of congratulating you on behalf of our Irish Brethren within this

Province of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, on your appointment as an Honorary Member of our Grand

Lodge. It is a great and most exclusive honour, but one which is well merited, and we are all proud and

gratified indeed that you have been so honoured. In honouring you, the Grand Lodge has done honour to

the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, which is held in very high regard within Grand Lodge in Dublin.

From time to time your Board of Benevolence has rendered most willing and generous assistance to the

widows and children of unattached and deceased Irish Freemasons, and done far more than we could

have done. Your own good works in Masonry have won almost universal acclaim and further enhanced

the already exalted prestige of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. As Provincial Grand Secretary, I kept

our Grand Secretary informed on these matters and presumably he would duly acknowledge with thanks.

Freemasonry universal is no narrow concept within Grand Lodge and in your Masonic career you have

given point to that Latin motto appearing at the head of our P.M. Certificate, which translated reads,

"What region on earth is without our Labour."

Let me digress for a moment; there is an example in this for all the Brethren present: Some few years ago

a Brother, only a fortnight out from Ireland, died suddenly at Birkenhead, one of the suburbs of

Auckland. His distracted wife, knowing no one, asked the doctor who had been called in to tell the local

Lodge of Freemasons what had happened. The Brethren immediately came to her rescue; their wives

cared for her, a complete stranger to them, in every way possible.

The Brethren informed me, then Provincial Grand Secretary, of what had taken place, and when I spoke

about the funeral, told me that everything had already been arranged; but that they would be glad of the

attendance of the Irish Brethren of the deceased.

This was indeed a practical illustration of the charity practised by all true Freemasons.

Now Most Worshipful Brother Raymond Frances Brooke, Grand Master, has commissioned me to

present to you this jewel or medallion of an Honorary Member of Grand Lodge of Ireland, and in making

the presentation I feel proud in being the medium of his pleasure. Observe the central motif —a tiny four-

leaved shamrock, in green enamel. I do not know its exact significance but all over Europe the four-

leaved clover is an emblem of good luck. The Germans have almost a proverbial saying of an

exceptionally fortunate person—"He has found a four-leaved clover." And in pondering over the question

I can recall a rhyme from my childhood days, which went something like this:

"Sitting on the grass we see

A little four-leaved clover,

It is luck for thee,

And luck for me,

And luck for any lover."

As an alternative, I could suggest it symbolises the very, very, rare conferring of Honorary Membership

on one of another Constitution, and in wearing it, Most. W. Bro. Faber, let me assure you that with one

possible exception, yours will be the only one

within the whole wide world.

As an addition, let me also present to you this

apron, so that, if you ever have the good

fortune, or the opportunity, to visit any one of

our Lodges, no matter where it may be in the

world, wearing them you will be received with

no less regard than would the Most Worshipful

Grand Master himself.

Worshipful Brethren and Brethren of the Irish

Constitution—upstanding. You will assist me

to salute M.W. Bro. Faber with the honours

due to his exalted rank.

M.W. Bro. Faber, wearing the Apron and

obviously touched and delighted, warmly

thanked the Provincial Grand Master for the

kind and most gratifying references he had made, both to himself and to the work of the Grand Lodge of

New Zealand and its Brethren. The honour he had received was, he felt, due more to them than to him-

self, and he was sure would be deeply appreciated by all, especially as it came from a Grand Lodge which

the Brethren of New Zealand had always had good cause to regard with great respect and affection.

It is understood that Honorary Membership of the Grand Lodge of Ireland is entirely within the gift of the

Grand Master, and has rarely been conferred. The only other Brother living who holds it is said to be

H.R.H. the Duke of Windsor, to whom the rank of Past Grand Master was awarded by the Grand Lodge

of England in 1936.

——————

WAKE UP AND LIVE ! —

If you are not getting the kick out of living you think you should be getting, if you feel you are in a rut, if

life is getting awfully daily — here is a trick that will do wonders for you. It will shock you awake like a

cold shower. It will provide new zest, unexpected exhilaration. It will bring you a fascinating succession

of personal challenges — with the odds of winning better than ever.

Whatever you are doing — running a business, writing a sonnet, teaching a child, planting a garden,

operating a machine, packing a suitcase, helping a friend, trying to keep your wife happy, investing your

money, telling a story, saying your prayers — whatever you are doing — stop in your tracks — often —

and ask yourself this exciting question: HOW CAN THIS BE DONE BETTER ?

— "The Little Gazette".

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

Combined Lodges

Almoners Association
A well attended and enthusiastic meeting of Almoners was held in the Council Chambers of the

Auckland Town Hall on the morning of 23rd November, following the Annual Communication.

W. Bro. George F. H. Forsyth, Chairman of the Auckland Association, welcomed members of Grand

Lodge and visiting Almoners and delivered an address on the work of the Auckland Association which

embraces Lodges from Kaitaia to Pukekohe and eastwards to Coromandel and Hauraki Plains. M.W. Bro.

Wilfred Wright, founder of the Association, spoke on the early days of the movement and the tremendous

progress since made.

Visiting Almoners from almost every Province in New Zealand accepted the Chairman's invitation to

address the meeting. Many spoke of the work in their districts and all expressed a wish to have a copy of

the Chairman's address to take back to their respective Associations. Arrangements were accordingly

made to have the address cyclostyled and posted to any Brother who desired a copy.

The meeting closed with a prayer by V.W. Bro. John Dick, Chaplain of the Auckland Association, and a

stalwart of the movement from its inception.

Extracts from the Chairman's address:—

Welcome, Members G.L. and Visitors:

Brethren—It is my pleasure and privilege on behalf of the executive of the Combined Lodges Almoners'

Association, Auckland District, to present to you a report of the activities of the Association during the

past year.

A report such as this must of necessity be brief, but its brevity in no way indicates any slackening on the

part of its members, in fact, it can be truthfully said that its work increases each month.

It has become a vital factor in the heart and work of Freemasonry and in the lives of so many widows,

orphans and aged and sick Freemasons and so many of the community of Auckland today.

It is impossible to show all the tangible proof of the work or worth of the Almoners, that would take too

long. "Further" work of this nature often to a great extent is both personal and confidential.

Figures which I will present later may help you to understand and also to illustrate to some extent, but not

all of the work the Almoner is called upon to perform, much of it is often unheard of or unsung except

when a Lodge may ask a speaker to attend to explain some detail.

Shall we have a look at the Association, its formation and its work?

Almoner is derived from Alms, may I quote Oxford Concise Dictionary meaning—Charitable relief of

poor.

There is a Lord High Almoner at the Court of St. James, London, and the Hereditary Grand Almoner is

attached to the Royal Household.

I hope the time will come when Grand Lodge will also recognise its work.

———

Association formed in 1947: M.W. Bro. W. Wright, P.Pro.G.M.; the late W. Bro. L. Thomson, Secretary.

First meeting in 1948 by Lodge Almoners. Attendance at that meeting, 12 members. Today's average

attendance, 45 at monthly meeting) some Almoners work Friday nights).

Officers elected in June of each year. Chairman's term—two years. Committee elected: Eight members,

Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Treasurer. Monthly meeting—every fourth Friday except December.

General business—Almoners' reports and cards.

Almoners converse and endeavour to find out about coverage in South Auckland, Northland and

Auckland.

Our duties: To visit hospitals, private homes; to visit widows and families of Brethren, and to relieve

distress when requested. Communications from all over New Zealand, also quite a number of Annuity

Forms to be completed and occasionally report on condition of properties when an application is made to

G.L. for assistance, and interview Brethren who are not regular at meetings.

Appeals are made twice yearly—April, winter fuel; November, Christmas parcels. Also annual

subscriptions. Yearly grant from Grand Lodge: Masonic Bowling and Golf Tournament. All Lodges

contribute to Xmas Appeal generously.

Distribution of wood, coal and coke: In the month of May, 170 bags of coal, 86 bags of titree; coke and

kerosene. August delivery also: 100 bags of kindling wood from Brethren, own carriers; deliver 2 bags of

coal or coke and 1 bag of titree to each household.

Clothing distributed: Estimated value, £2,000. This week clothing valued at £200 to—Cornwall, Selwyn

Village, Salvation Army Homes, Ranfurly Veterans, and others. Women and children's clothing also

distributed.

Home nursing—see Page 8-12, Constitution. Many telephone rings and letters of thanks.

Christmas party started six years ago-60 Brethren attended. Last December 350 Brethren were present.

Ladies help and donations are generous. Has been afternoon function, but now takes place as luncheon—

growing every year. Invitations are sent to P.G.M.s and District G.M.s of other Constitutions.

Christmas Day: Parcel sweets, cigarettes, biscuits—3,500— distributed by Almoners and their wives and

Lodge members.

Annual visits by Almoners—approximately 10,000 visits - not all recorded by cards.

We of this Association trust that your stay with us has been profitable and pray for your safe return home,

that you will convey to your Brethren an outline of some of our work with a view that wherever you may

travel in the province should you need our assistance a line or telegram to our Secretary, Bro. Vic

Somerville, will receive immediate attention from your Brother Almoners of Auckland.—George F. H.

Forsyth, Chairman.

————————

THE FIVE POINTS OF NURSING—

BY BRO. J. E. SAVILLE

The five-pointed star is a well-known symbol of Craft Masonry. It may therefore be of interest to

Freemasons to give some consideration to another similar star, the badge of the New Zealand State

Registered Nurse, which marks the completion of the course of training and success in the State Final

examinations, and is usually presented at a graduation ceremony. This badge is an enamelled brooch in

the form of a five-pointed star worn with two points upwards.

Recipients are usually given some explanation of the symbolism of the badge, on the following lines.

This type of star is said to have originated with the priests and priestesses of Isis in ancient Egypt who

were recognised as having considerable knowledge of medicine. The five points are said to represent:

THE HAND: That my hand shall ever be extended to help, comfort, and relieve the sick and suffering.

THE FOOT: That my feet shall not falter, loiter, or linger when journeying to relieve the suffering or the

sick.

THE KNEE: That my knee shall bow in supplication to Almighty God for aid in my endeavour to

succour the sick and suffering.

THE BREAST: That my breast shall be a safe and sacred repository for any secrets entrusted to me, or

divulged during sickness or delirium or otherwise obtained.

THE HEAD: That I will constantly pursue the study of the sacred arts. That I will exercise my knowledge

to the benefit of those suffering mental or bodily distress, and that I will disseminate such knowledge

among such others as my preceptors may authorise and direct.

— "The Freemason".

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

Apprentices’ Corner
SETTING MAUL: A symbol of death. In operative masonry a heavy wooden maul was used for the

purpose of setting the stone and tamping it into the mortar to make it level and firmly fixed in the wall,

This instrument should not be confused with the gavel, which is a sharp-edged hammer used for cutting

stone. Large heavy instruments for striking blows go back to ancient mythology. Thor, the Norse God of

Thunder, is represented as a powerful man armed with a mighty hammer.

g g g

SEVEN LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES: Symbols of education, learning, knowledge. References

are made to these in practically all of the early manuscript Constitutions; even the Regius, the oldest of

them all, makes reference to them.

Educators of the Middle Ages divided their curriculum into seven branches, in two general groups, one of

three and one of four, called the "trivium" and the "quadrivium": the former comprised grammar, rhetoric

and logic; the latter arithmetic, music, astronomy and geometry. This old-time arrangement of studies

remains in our degrees to symbolise an effective schooling.

g g g

SQUARE: A symbol of the Master; of rectitude of life and conduct; of morality, truthfulness and

honesty. The meaning of this word is almost universally understood and it has percolated into all strata of

society. The "square man" is the honest man. To act "on the square" is to act honestly. In Freemasonry, to

"part upon the square" has its own symbolism. The square is a tool made of two members, pointing in

different directions. Those directions are "right" with each other—a right angle, so-called because the 90

degree angle is the only—therefore the right angle for stones which are to build a perpendicular and

stable wall. When brethren "part upon the square" they leave each other in different directions and though

their destinations may be unknown, their rightness is known. Brethren part in the full knowledge that

their courses, until they meet again, will be according to the angle of a square—right.

g g g

THREE GRAND COLUMNS: Wisdom, Strength and Beauty are themselves symbols of natural law,

creation, since without them nothing worthwhile comes into existence. "Wisdom to contrive, strength to

support" is obviously as true of the universe as it is of temple. "Beauty to adorn" is often misunderstood

because of a too limited thought on the fundamentals of beauty. What is beautiful generally becomes so

in men's thoughts because of its fitness for its purpose. It is in this sense that "beauty to adorn" is used

Masonically. The plainest of the five orders of architecture is as beautiful as the most ornate, because it is

equally as useful as the most ornate. Simplicity is often the basic element in beauty.

—————

A CONTRACT — — — —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —

Did you ever stop to think that in receiving the degree of Master Mason you have entered into a contract.

It is a contract with men to be a man. You have taken upon yourself pledges and obligations which, in the

world of business, you would never think of breaking because you know it would spell your financial

ruin.

No more should you think of breaking this contract, for it spells your moral ruin to do so. Every contract

breaker has less regard for contracts thereafter. So every deliberate breaker of a moral contract has less

regard for morality thereafter. It is inevitable. You cannot afford to get into such a habit

—Exchange.

Obituary
"As, one by one, the autumn leaves fade in the forest deep,

So. one by one, to each of you must come the touch of sleep;

As, one by one, the roses burst into the morning light,

So, one by one, your souls shall wake again, beyond the night."

W. Bro. JOSEPH A. EVANS, a Past Master of Lodge Ara, No. 348 I.C. of Auckland, died of heart

failure while at work with his wife in their garden on 23rd December; he would have been 53 in a few

days.

Bro. Evans was an Officer of his Provincial Grand Lodge, Chaplain of Lodge Ara, a Past King and

Registrar of its associated Royal Arch Chapter.

"Joe", as he was universally known, was a man of sterling character, kindness itself, smiling and pleasant

at all times, and a staunch and devoted worker for the Craft.

His business brought him into contact with brethren of all Constitutions, and the affection and esteem in

which he was held was strikingly shown by their very large attendance at his funeral service on Boxing

Day at the principal Methodist Church of the city. Attention was drawn by the officiating Minister to the

beautiful flowers decorating the church, which, he said, had been specially grown and arranged in place

for the Christmas Services by Mr. and Mrs. Evans, just a short time before he died.

The Masonic Committal Service at the Crematorium was conducted by V. W Bro. Rev. Everill Orr, Past

Grand Chaplain, a Minister of the Methodist Church.

——————

WHAT DOES THE NAME "QUATUOR CORONATI" MEAN ?—

The Latin words mean "The four crowned ones" and allude to the Christian Church's Festival of the Four

Crowned Martyrs, which is celebrated on November 8.

The story, in brief, is that in the year A.D. 302 four stonecarvers and their apprentice were ordered by the

Emperor Diocletian to carve a statue of Aesculapius, which, since they were secretly Christians, they

evaded doing. For disobedience of the Emperor's commands they were put to death on November 8.

During the year A.D. 304 Diocletian ordered that all Roman soldiers should burn incense before a statue

of the same god, but four of them who were Christians refused to do so, for which they were beaten to

death, which again is said to have been on November 8, though two years after the death of the stone-

carvers.

These two sets of five and four martyrs, whose deaths occurred on the same day of the year, though two

years apart, were ordered to be commemorated on that day under the single name of Quatuor Coronati.

These Saints are referred to in the oldest known Masonic document, the Regius Manuscript, dating from

about 1390.

The founders of Quatuor Coronati Lodge, No. 2076, nine in number, of whom four were soldiers, chose

the Quatuor Coronati as the Patron Saints of the Lodge.

— "The Masonic Record"

——————

WHAT DOES THE WORD "MOTE" MEAN ? —

It is the third person singular of the present subjunctive of the Anglo-Saxon "motan", which meant "to be

allowed"; hence the phrase "so mote it be" in our time would be "so may it be". It is a quaint and

charming form of the familiar Amen — a dear, deep, far-echoing word wherein God confirms the faith of

man, and man accepts the will of God.

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON

The installation Meeting of The Motueka Lodge, No. 117 was held on Saturday December 2nd., when

Bro. William Phillip Reeve was Installed in The Chair of the Lodge by R. W. Bro. A. E. Shuttleworth,

Prov. G.M., who was supported by 19 of his Grand Lodge Officers; also present was W. Bro. R. J.

Shand-Smith, Deputy District G.M., of Nelson-West Coast, E.C. with two of his Officers.

The attendance of 130 included brethren from 14 other Lodges, and the W.M.s of all the Nelson District

Lodges were present to take their part in the ceremonies and greet W. Bro. Reeve.

R. W. Bro. Shuttleworth carried out his duties in his usual very capable manner and was ably assisted by

his supporting Officers, the Grand Director of Ceremonies being V. W. Bro. H. W. J. Waters who was

making his first appearance in this office following his Investiture the previous week. For those who

know V. W. Bro. John Waters, it occasioned no surprise that his work was faultless.

A noteworthy feature of the evening, was the address given by W. Bro. W. P. Reeve following his

Installation, a report of which will be included in this edition. (if space permits).

≈ ≈ ≈

There was a particularly good attendance at the December Meeting of Lodge Eckford, No. 334, the

Blenheim Temple being comfortably filled.

This was the Christmas Meeting, the ceremonial work of the evening being an Initiation, which was

carried out in the efficient manner characteristic of this thriving young Lodge, the membership of which

now stands at 101, while several more candidates await admittance.

The real highlight of the evening, which all had looked forward to, was an address by M. W. Bro. W. J.

Girling, P.G.M. who in addition to being a Foundation Member, was Grand Master in 1948 when the

Lodge was founded, and accordingly not only Presided at the Consecration of the Lodge, but also

authorised it's Charter.

M. W. Bro. Girling's address, as was expected,

proved most interesting and informative,

covering, by specal request, some of the vast

Masonic knowledge and experience he has

gathered during his 55 years of outstanding and

continuous service to the Craft, and all

Marlborough brethren deeply regret that this

most distinguished Brother now finds it

necessary to live most of the year at his

Auckland home, and only return to his home

district for the summer months. M. W. Bro.

Girling closed his address with a very topical

Christmas message, after which the brethren

retired to the refractory where all joined in

singing a few of our favourite Christmas Carols.

——————

CANTERBURY

On Tuesday, 24th October, the Brethren of Lodge Gothic, No. 388, Christchurch, entertained their ladies

to a unique and wonderful evening on board the s.s. Gothic at Lyttelton, through the courtesy of the

Shaw, Savill and Albion Co. Limited.

During the time of the formation of the Lodge, it was decided to name the Lodge "Gothic" for two

reasons—one being because of the Gothic architecture, and the other was the visit of Her Majesty the

Queen when the Royal Yacht was the s.s. Gothic, and the decision to name the Lodge "Gothic" was

communicated to the Shaw, Savill and Albion Co. which gave this decision its whole-hearted support,

even going as far as to have the gavels of the Master and two Wardens made of the teak taken from the

saluting deck after the completion of Her Majesty's voyage and the s.s. Gothic returned to its normal run.

The Brethren and the guests were received by the Master, W. Bro. L. Parker, and Mrs. Parker, along with

the Manager of the Company, W. Bro. E. Fraser, and Mrs. Fraser, and Capt. G. Campbell, the ship's

Captain. On arrival the ladies each received an attractive spray of flowers, and then a pleasant cocktail

hour was spent before dinner was served at 7.15 p.m. The lounge was attractively decorated for the

occasion and some of the ship's officers mingled with the guests. A happy gala atmosphere soon

prevailed with the guests freely conversing and exchanging greetings during the partaking of the light

refreshments served with the cocktails, and the hour quickly passed until the dinner gong was sounded.

Dinner was served in the dining room where a sumptuous spread was displayed on a long table at which

the ship's chefs officiated. The guests were seated at tables accommodating from 4 to 10 persons, and

each table had one or two stewards to see to the guests' wants. The menus were attractively decorated

with New Zealand native birds and flowers.

After dinner the guests reassembled in the lounge, where Bro. R. Sail, the S.W., made a speech of

welcome to all the guests, particularly to the ladies, to whom he expressed the appreciation of the officers

of the Lodge and the Brethren for their co-operation and for allowing their husbands the nights out at

Lodge functions.

Bro. Sail then presented bouquets of flowers to the Master's wife, Mrs. L. Parker, and Mrs. C. C. Holland,

the Deputy Master's wife. The W.M. replied on behalf of the ladies, and at the same time expressed his

appreciation to the Company for their hospitality and in particular to W. Bro. E. Fraser for making the

evening possible. He also referred again to the set of gavels which had been presented to the Lodge early

in its formation by the Company.

Another beautiful bouquet of flowers was

presented to Mrs. E. Fraser, and a set of cufflinks

to W. Bro. Fraser to show the appreciation of the

Lodge for making available the facilities of the

ship. W. Bro. Fraser replied on behalf of the

Company and expressed his hope that the happy

relationship between the Lodge and the Company

would continue for many years.

W. Bro. Fraser also referred to the history of the

ship and some of the stories surrounding the

occasion when the ship was the Royal Yacht

Gothic and carried Her Majesty the Queen and

H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh during their world

cruise and their happy stay in New Zealand

waters. It was felt that all the ladies were

interested in seeing over the cabins which were

thrown open for inspection, and many of them

envisaged themselves travelling to Great Britain in such luxury.

After a pleasant evening of games in which the majority of the Brethren and their wives participated, this

most successful evening terminated at approximately 10.30 p.m. The evening was blessed by being

favoured with a calm, warm night, and all the guests returned to their homes feeling very satisfied after

this outstanding and eventful evening. The Brethren of the Lodge are very indebted to the Shipping

Company for their hospitality in making this evening possible for their ladies.

Much of the success of the evening was due to Bro. Arthur English, one of the officers of the Lodge, who

was Convenor of the Entertainment Committee, and for the full co-operation and service of the officers

and crew of s.s. Gothic during the evening. Bro. English is the Shaw Savill Senior Officer at the Port of

Lyttelton, and was for many years a ship's officer with this line.

——————

SOUTHLAND

The death of Wor. Bro. Ritchie-Crawford will be keenly felt throughout Southland. A member of Lodge

St. John No. 94 and Remembrance No. 318 of which he was the first Master, he was in many ways a

remarkable man. His interests were wide and varied. As a medical man he practised in Invercargill for

over 50 years and he built up for himself a reputation which will cause him to be-remembered, with

affection, by all who had the good fortune to know him.

After a long illness Dr. Ritchie-Crawford passed to the Grand Lodge above while sleeping during the

early hours of the morning.

At the time of his death an application by Lodge St. John for his 50 year service badge had been granted

and it was intended to have it presented to him at an early date.

Bro. Crawford was interested in every branch of Freemasonry operating in Southland and was a member

of the Zealandia Sovereign Council, Dunedin.

Interested in many kinds of sport he gave service

for many years as a referee and he had played

rugby for Otago University. He was a keen rifle

shot and at one time was President of the New

Zealand Rifle Association. He was also interested

in angling, amateur boxing and duck shooting. He

gave long service as a director of the Southland Agricultural Association, serving a term as president and

farmed a property at Otatara where he conducted a registered .Jersey herd. His interests were so wide and

varied and he crammed so many things into his life that anyone who moved at a slower tempo could only

marvel at how he kept all his commitments. He was a voracious reader and possessed a really first class

library. His genial personality and his lively interest in everything won him many friends.

≈ ≈ ≈

At the December meeting of Lodge St. John No. 94 an opportunity was taken by the Provincial Grand

Master, Rt. Bro. G. C. Sim to invest Bro. A. F. Hill with the collar and jewel of his office, Grand

Standard Bearer. It was the official visit of Grand Lodge to the annual "haggis" night which was fairly

well attended. In the refectory the Prov. G.M. intimated that he would be looking for support from the

Southland lodges in a scheme he hoped to promote for the purpose of assisting approved charities.

≈ ≈ ≈

The Almoners of the Southland Association have experienced a very busy period this Christmastide in

having to make over 50 visits to the sick for the purpose of presenting each with a gift. In every hospital

in Southland one or more patients belonging to a lodge was to be found Visits were made to Wakari,

Dunedin Public and to country centres for the same purpose. One patient in the Public Hospital,

Christchurch died early in January. He was Bro. John Meffan of Lodge Arrow Kil; Arrowtown, and was

the holder of a 50 year service badge. Bra. Meffan had been an inmate of "Ferndale" the Foundation of

the Blind Home in Christchurch. Thanks to the Canterbury Almoners he had been regularly visited during

the two years he had been in Christchurch and at the funeral service, pall bearers provided by the

Almoners of Canterbury officiated. Southland is again deeply appreciative of the grand work performed

by the Canterbury Almoners when requested to visit our sick brethren when in that Province. Our sincere

thanks are extended to Bro. A. H. Hayman, acting Secretary of the Canterbury Association, who as usual

was most helpful and efficient when recently called upon- to assist in the case of the late Bro. J. Meffan.

≈ ≈ ≈

Closely following the death of Bro. Ritchie-Crawford of Lodge St. John No. 94, Bro. W. F. Webb and

Bro. L. J. Cockroft passed to the Grand Lodge above. To lose three members of the Lodge within one

week is a severe loss particularly when the deceased brethren concerned have played a prominent part in

the life of the community. Bro. W. F. Webb was particularly well known for his activities in connection

with the St. John Ambulance Division of which he was a senior member. He was particularly helpful to

many who were known to him to be in need. His many good deeds built up for him a host of grateful

friends who mourn the loss of a freemason who practised charity in a quiet manner and unknown but to a

few of his intimate friends.

Bro. L. J. Cockroft, a friend of Bro. Webb, having worked together for many years in the Railway

Department died within 24 hours after his workmate. Unlike Bro. Webb, he had been ill for some time,

whereas Bro. Webb appeared to be in good health and his death in such a sudden manner came as a shock

to the community. Bro. Cockroft was a rugby enthusiast. He represented Southland in 1927-28 and

continued as a referee until about ten years ago. He was a live member of the Southland Referees'

Association for over 30 years and was a past

president. He was also a keen swimmer and won

many medals during his career.

OHIO — 1960

Proceedings of the M.W. Grand Lodge of F. & A. Masons of the State of Ohio at its 151st Annual

Communication, held at Columbus, Ohio, October 14 and 15, A.D. 1960.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. C. K. Cunningham.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. C. H. Strayer.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. A. J. White, Jr,

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. H. J. Coates.

Grand representative at N.Z.:- M.W. Bro. C. L. MacDiarmid, P.G.M.

670 lodges, 282,397 members, net loss 396.

The loss shown above is the first for twenty years.

A Brother and his wife, both 77 years of age, were living in a trailer on the Brother's pension and Social

Security. When their health began to fail these funds became inadequate. They were hospitalised, the

earlier hospital bills being met from the sale of their assets and support from one of their sons. The Ohio

Masonic Home arranged to take them but the hospital would not release them pending payment of the

balance of their hospital bill of nearly $9000. The Brother's own lodge, which had 179 members, paid

more than $1500 for the air transport of the two old people. The Grand Master sent out an appeal for the

$3000 which remained outstanding for hospital and doctors' bills, to help a small lodge with a big

problem. The response at the time of the Annual Communication had reached a total of $7,632.23.

During the year the Grand Master, in the presence of his father, raised his son to the Third Degree.

The Ohio volume is one of the volumes of Proceedings which includes a plate of each new Masonic

temple dedicated; the styles of architecture cover a wide range.

——————

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA-1960

Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, F. & A. M. 150th Annual Report, 1960.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. A. Johnson, Jr.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. R. M. Wolfe.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. R. N. Babcock.

Grand representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. C. H. Anderson.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. J. M. Noble, P.Prov.G.M.

48 lodges, 23,147 members, net loss 436.

"The Masonic Foundation of the District of Columbia" has been duly incorporated to manage the

benevolent, educational, etc., activities of the Grand Lodge.

M.W. Bro. R. Baker Harris submitted a report on Masonic funerals, which included a history of the

Masonic funeral service set out in some detail:— "The Masonic funeral service is an American

development in Freemasonry. Its ceremony was first devised by George Preston and other English

ritualists of the late 18th and early 19th century, but its performance has been practically unknown in the

British Isles. The Masonic funeral service is today specifically prohibited by order of the Board of

General Purposes of the United Grand Lodge of England. It is not generally performed anywhere else in

the world, except by lodges working under an American warrant or charter. The Masonic funeral service

is without ancient origin, and it is not the subject of any Landmark of the Craft." Lodges of Sorrow and

Memorial Lodges are both covered in a fairly exhaustive account.

This Grand Lodge, with a jurisdiction of only ten square miles and a population which tries to keep just

beyond the border of Washington D.C. finds membership considerations more than ordinarily difficult,

although some adjoining Grand Lodges have been co-operative in the matter of waivers of jurisdiction.

——————

RHODE ISLAND-1960

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honourable Society of Free and Accepted

Masons for the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, the 169th year, 1960.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. H. L. Palmer.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. I. L. Tucker.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. A. R. Cole.

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. H. M. Sherwood.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. E. E. Hill, P.Prov. G . M.

44 lodges, 680 members, net loss 173.

A new standing committee was authorised at the semi-annual communication, to be called the Committee

on Financial Advice to the Subordinate Lodges. "Fortunately, these men are brethren who are experts in

this field. One brother from each of the prominent brokerage houses was appointed to this committee.

The services offered by this committee are given only when requested. To date only one lodge has

availed itself of the services of the committee. These services should not be ignored . . . it is merely

advisory . . . you are not compelled to take the advice. However, you may be interested to know that one

lodge, fortunate enough to have a Treasurer who is an expert in the investment field, derives almost as

much income from its investments as it does from the dues of its members . . . in short, over $3000.00 per

year."

In Masonic trials the Junior Warden has hitherto had to act as counsel, often against trained counsel

selected, by the accused from among the Brethren. The Constitution has now been amended to allow the

Junior Warden, like the accused, to nominate some Brother to act for him in this behalf.

——————

COLORADO-1961

Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Colorado. 100th Communication. Denver, January 24 and 25, 1961.

Grand Master, presiding: M: W. Bro. C. M. Ray

Grand Master, elected: M. W. Bro. L. H. Snyder

Grand Secretary: R. W. Bro. H. W. Bundy

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. G. C. Twombly

Grand representative at N.Z.: R. W. Bro. H. C. Mac-Gibbon, P.G.W.

168 lodges, 47,098 members, nett gain 235.

The Centennial of the Grand Lodge was to have been held in August, September and October, 1961, and

no doubt the next volume of Proceedings will contain a full account of the observance. Local

commemorative meetings of lodges were scheduled, various publications, etc., as well as a two day

celebration in Denver.

The benevolent organisation of this Grand Lodge is interesting. By authority of Grand Lodge a Masons'

Benevolent Fund Association was organised in 1912 under the state laws. It is managed by Trustees

appointed and revocable by the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge, who hold all the stock. The

corporation has a capitalisation of 10.000 shares of a par value of one dollar each: At the end of the last

fiscal year the total book value was $1,338,204.72.

The report of the Committee on Fraternal Relations gives a concise account of what has happened in

Italy: "For almost 60 years the Masonic fraternity has been split into two camps. The Grand Lodge of

Italy and the Grand Orient. Different Grand Lodges in the United States have recognised the two different

groups, each of which claimed regularity. When Mussolini came into power in the 1920s he pitted one

against the other, and all but destroyed both.

Last year three eminent Masons from the United States went on a mission to Italy for the sole purpose of

bringing these two main groups together. In this endeavour they were successful. A treaty has been

entered into ... and for the first time since 1902 there is a unified, strong and purposeful Grand Lodge in

Italy. Further, this delegation from the United States has, with help from the U.S. State Department, been

successful in restoring the Palazzo Guistianini to the Grand Lodge."

——————

ALABAMA-1960

The Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Alabama. November, 1960.

Grand Master, presiding: M. W. Bro. J. L. Lawson

Grand Master, elected: M. W. Bro. G. L. Evatt

Grand Secretary: R. W. Bro. V. A. Rushton

Grand representative of N.ZZ W. Bro. H. E. Palmes

Grand representative at N.Z.: R. W. Bro. F. F. Boustridge, P. Dep. G.M.

436 lodges, 76,404 members, nett gain 347.

This Grand Lodge works to a target of a One million dollar endowment fund. The Trustees in the year

concluded were able to increase the interest rate on bonds to an average of .0418 per cent. interest, and

report a grand total of $728,960.02 at 30th September, 1960. "Also, they report, we will reach our goal of

one million dollars by the time our annual payments expire in 1963." The fund does not appear to have

been built up at the expense of any interim niggardliness.

Although in the past twelve years some $113,000.00 has been spent on improvements or maintenance of

the Temple building, it is obsolete and not large enough for present needs. As the Grand Lodge holds

realisable real property of considerable value, including its present site, a proposal has emerged to build

on the site of the Masonic Home property, where operations, including those of the Home itself, can be

conducted more efficiently.

R. W. Bro. C. H. Stubinger, Grand Secretary since 1947, died during the year.