Research Lodge of Wellington No. 194
On Saturday, October 6, an old and distinguished Lodge celebrates its Jubilee. Research Lodge of

Wellington, No. 194, originally the Installed Masters' Lodge, has an enviable record of achievement,

although it has also had its vicissitudes. Membership is confined to Installed Masters, but there is a

considerable Associate Membership of Master Masons, and an extensive Correspondence Circle.

Numerically, it is not a weak Lodge, but attendances at its meetings are not great. Most of those who come

are Brethren who are prepared to take part in the discussions, and there is a hard core of others who, although

they rarely speak, are never absent, As with some other Lodges of this Kind, a great deal of the work is done

at long range, through the printed Transactions, and over the years a remarkable volume of admirable

Masonic comment and exposition has been published by the Lodge. Masonic research in the fullest and

strictest sense of the words is a little difficult in New Zealand, for the original documents of the Craft are not

here, and work on its early history would have to be done from secondary sources. Nevertheless, original

research has been done into our own history, and some biographical work has been done as well. The field is

still wide open: in spite of the researches of such members of the Lodge as V.W.Bro. A. E. Currie, which

have filled many of the gaps, there is a great deal still to do. The late V.W.Bro. A. B. Croker's History of

Grand Lodge requires amplification and bringing up to date; most of our Grand Masters lack any biography;

the fascinating beginnings of Masonic work under various Constitutions, including even a Grand Orient,

require full and careful treatment. The most recent Masonic publication by a member of the Lodge is

V.W.Bro. Currie's Masonic Annals of Wellington, District Grand Lodge of Wellington (English

Constitution), which represents a great deal of research so meticulously done that it constitutes a model of its

kind. During 1959 the first four booklets in the Lodge's Historical Records series were published, entitled

respectively: The Declaration of Union and the Basis of Union; The First Roll of Lodges; Lodges with

Overseas Charters, and Inauguration of Subordinate Grand Lodges (from Contemporary Reports). To mark

the Jubilee a first selection has been made from the half century's accumulation of the papers delivered

before the Lodge, and this is now being published

—a handsome volume, illustrated in full colour,

with Bro. H. H. Tombs' representations of the three

Tracing Boards. It is contemplated that this will be

only the first volume in a set of reprints, for the

Lodge has always had Masonic students,

sometimes only one or two, but sometimes more

than a few, who have been prepared to do the work

and able to set down the results. The Transactions

of this Lodge, as, indeed, of all the New Zealand

Lodges of Research, provide a great wealth of

Masonic information which should have far greater

currency than it has. There are so many evidences of the demand for this kind of material that it is only

surprising that this Lodge and the other Lodges of Research have so far done so little in book form.

It is hoped and expected that it will be possible for the M.W. Grand Master to attend the Jubilee meeting on

6th October. Like the Immediate Past Grand Master and several other Past Grand Masters, he is a Past

Master of the Lodge. (the first Master was M.W.Bro. Herbert Williams, P.G.M.)

In some ways the Lodges of Research are the levee within the lump, and often their influence reaches the

Brethren at large through the Grand Lecturers who so often have received in Lodges of Research much of

their training in Masonic study and exposition, We congratulate the Lodge on having attained its Jubilee, and

we trust that its influence will become still greater as time goes on.

—————

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.

J. Bassett, R.D.2, Hastings.

F. W. Clark, 179 London Street, Wanganui.

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

C. W. Horne, Flat 75, 139 Greys Avenue, Auckland.

B D. Rowe, c/- Post Office, Nelson.

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

FREEMASONARY, A SHORT SUMMARY OF ITS
ORIGIN, PURPOSE, AND OBLIGATIONS

By Wor. Bro. W. B. King, at Palmerston North Lodge No. 383

BRETHREN, many thousands of years ago, Man, in his evolution or creation was endowed with a brain

which placed him, in the scheme of Creation, far above all other animals. This brain enabled him to reason

and plan, to master his environment to a great extent, to use and invent tools, and to convert the forces of

Nature to his own advancement. The use of Fire, the wheel, and later of steam, enabled him to completely

revolutionise his method of living, while the discovery of electricity and the internal combustion engine have

carried him on to heights undreamt of by his forbears of a century ago.

However, long ago, once the problems of living had been, to a great extent, solved and a certain amount of

leisure achieved, certain men gave up their lives to the problem of how the members of the human race may

live together in unity and harmony and developed schools of thought on the subject of morality and ethics

which they felt to be necessary to enable mankind to

live a full life here on earth.

The Egyptian Priest-Kings, Plato, Pythagoras,

Buddha, Confucius and many others all developed

societies or schools in which they taught what they

considered the whole duty of man. Also, in many of

these schools, all available knowledge of the Seven Liberal Arts was passed on to the students. We have

never been able to picture what scientific discoveries had actually been made in their time although we do

know that the steam-engine was invented at a very early date, since, due to wars, famines and persecutions,

these schools were abolished and thousands of the writings of these men and of their adherents and

successors have been destroyed, particularly in the wonderful Library in Alexandria, whose destruction was

one of the greatest tragedies to occur in the world.

However, the question of Morality and Ethics were kept alive by groups and individuals scattered over the

world, and, over the centuries, a very clear picture was formed of the ideals to be aimed at so that mankind

might reach the zenith of its purpose in Creation.

In every age, monarchs and religious organisations needed Builders and Architects to erect the stately

structures required to display to the world the glories of their employers or of their Gods.

It was usual for a Master Builder, who was, of necessity, well skilled in the Arts and Sciences, to assemble

his team of expert Craftsmen from whatever race or clime the best men were available, and, on being

appointed to erect a large building, to bring them along and erect a Lodge to house them, before beginning

the major contract.

There, the Builders cooked, ate and slept, and there they no doubt discussed practically every subject under

the sun; but one quality was supremely necessary to ensure that their work stood the test of time, this being

fidelity to the ethics of the Craft that nothing but the best materials should be used, that each man's

workmanship should be of the highest standard, and that, of necessity, each man's relationship with his

fellow workers must be first-class, no difference of race, religion, or colour being allowed to upset their

fraternal union and thus tend to spoil the progress of the work. To drive home the necessary moral lessons

and also to while away their spare time, Morality Plays were frequently acted.

Branches of the Masonic Art were spread all over the world in response to the demand for castles, cathedrals

and palaces, and each body or Lodge brought its own teaching and ritual of instruction with it. The wisdom

and character of these Operative Masons appears to have been such that many outsiders wished to join the

Lodges in an honorary capacity, and many men of learning and of influence were admitted as such, the

services of some the more eminent and learned being utilised to review the rites and ceremonies practiced in

driving home the moral lessons.

As a consequence, when learning became wider spread and the craft of the stonemason began to decline,

Speculative Lodges began to be formed, quite apart from the Operative Art, to spread more widely the

spiritual and moral lessons developed by the ancient brethren as a pattern by which alone, men of all races,

creeds and colours could live together in harmony and peace.

Dozens of different ceremonies or plays had been developed over the years for driving home the ethical

values of the Craft, but, with the formation of the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland, a more or

less common standard ceremony was evolved and was handed on to our New Zealand Lodges. It is

interesting to note, however, that there are still several different workings in use in England at the present

time, the right to carry on the old ritual being one of the rights claimed by the old Lodges before agreeing to

unite in Grand Lodge.

It must be emphasised to students of Freemasonry that the stories illustrated in the ritual are not necessarily

in accord with historical fact, as they are often stories or legends which have been 'developed from certain

Biblical passages to drive home the moral and spiritual tenets of the Craft. You will all remember the

definition of Freemasonry as "A peculiar system of Morality, veiled in Allegory, and illustrated by

Symbols."

The only qualification for admittance into the Craft are a declared belief in the Great Architect of the

Universe and a good reputation as a citizen. No topic of political or. religious discussion is allowed in a

Lodge; so that, whether the candidate is a Christian

of any sect, a Mohammedan, a Jew, or belongs to

any other religious organisation, so long as he

affirms his belief in God, he is welcome in the fold;

and, as you have all heard, many Lodges have two,

three or more Volumes of the Sacred Law open on

the pedestal while the Lodge is open.

Brethren, what a great job was done by the early Masons in developing the moral and spiritual lessons which

are taught to our members. What better exposition of Man's duty to God, to his neighbour and to himself has

ever been developed than the Final Charge in the First Degree? By this, we are taught to look to the Sacred

Law as the basis of morality, to call upon God to assist us in all our undertakings, and to solicit His mercy

when we go astray.

Our duty to our neighbour is to act with him on the square, to relieve his necessities and to soothe his

afflictions, and to always do unto him as, in similar cases, we would wish that he should do unto us.

Each man's duty to himself is to subject himself to such a prudent and well-regulated course of discipline as

may best conduce to the preservation of his bodily and mental faculties in their fullest energy, thereby

enabling him to exert those talents, wherewith God has blessed him, as well to His glory as to the welfare of

his fellow-creatures.

In many Lodges throughout the world, it is the custom to require each candidate to recite in open Lodge the

Obligation of the previous Degree before being given his next step. For my part, I would rather that each

candidate should memorise and recite the part of this Final Charge mentioned above, since this would

undoubtedly bring Much more forcibly to his notice the aims and objects of our Order, which are to assist

each other to become better men, so that the Rough Ashlar, with which each of us began his pilgrimage

through life may, by the application of the figurative Working Tools of the various Degrees, may be shaped

into the Perfect Ashlar, a stone of a true die or square fit to be used in the building of that Ethereal Mansion,

not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens.

Brethren, the only real driving force in mankind towards the moral teachings of Freemasonry is the innate

belief in a future existence beyond the grave, and that our actions on this earth will decide whether we pass

to a higher plane or not. This is well illustrated in our Second Degree in the Allegory of the Winding

Staircase, where we have to pass the tests of the Wardens before we receive our wages in the Middle

Chamber.

If we have not this belief, it would seem that our actions here below do not matter in the slightest; and that,

so long as we do not fall foul of the Law, we should indulge ourselves in all the best things in life that we

can obtain by fair means or foul. The only other possible urge to live a decent life and to improve the lot of

our fellows would seem to be a desire to make a better world for our children.

The V.S.L. emphasises the duty of man in this respect, and all main religions have, as a basis, that the aim of

every adherent should be to ensure the well-being of his fellows, and that the only hope for the survival of

mankind lies in ensuring as far as possible that no one is left in a state of slavery whether it be to want, to

superstition, or to ignorance. Furthermore, they all teach the universal brotherhood of man of all races and

colours. In all this, our first duty would appear to be to work to the end that no man should have to starve

while willing and anxious to work, since it has been

said, with great truth, that it is no use preaching

ethics, morality, or religion to a man with an empty

stomach.

Man's creative genius, under the drive of

nationalism, the lust for power, and other

influences, has far outstripped his sense of moral

and spiritual values, with the result that today we

appear to be living on the edge of a volcano which

is due to erupt at any time, with the possible

destruction of all our achievements and even of the human race itself.

Freemasonry, from its high moral principles, should be the leaven to raise the standard of public morality to

the same high level that is taught in our Lodges, since every member should be known to his associates,

inside and outside the Lodge, as a man who can be trusted, in every walk of life, to do more than his duty for

the benefit of all, particularly of those in need, and therefore, from his example, to be a good influence on the

characters of those with whom he comes in contact.

As already stated, the objects of Freemasonry are primarily to improve the members morally and ethically,

and not to make members, quality and quantity being the criterion of a good Lodge, It has been often stated

by leaders in the Craft that, when considering applications for membership of our Lodges, the question asked

by the investigating Committee should be "What do you know in his favour?" rather than "Do you know

anything against him?" The impact of each new member should be to raise the spiritual and moral

atmosphere of the Lodge.

If the moral lessons of our ritual are not deeply impressed on the minds of our initiates, it will be only a

matter of time before Freemasons' Lodges degenerate to the status of exclusive clubs in which the only

interest is in meeting Brethren in our own Lodges and in those we visit; and, if the minds of our members are

not receptive to and appreciative of our spiritual teachings they can have no real interest in the Lodge except

in the social advantage, if any, of being members. Emphasis seems to be more and more directed to the

advantage of visiting other Lodges, which, of course, enables us to meet many Brethren we would otherwise

never see, but each Brother should decide for himself how much time he can afford to devote to this pursuit

without neglecting his family or other duties, or alternatively, whether he would not be doing a better job in

life by taking part in the work of societies for the betterment of man.

For those members who are really interested in the teachings, ritual or history of the Craft, there are many

ways of increasing the knowledge gained by watching or participating in the ritual of the Lodge. Firstly,

Grand Lodge recognises, not only the first three degrees, but also three more which are under a separate

jurisdiction. There are also many other Masonic Degrees available to the interested Mason, most of them

Christian in character, and therefore they cannot come under the heading of Freemasonry which is open to all

who believe in God. There are also several Lodges of Research throughout the country, with membership

open to all Master Masons, which issue papers on Masonic subjects.

As individuals, we should endeavour to use to the fullest extent the brain power bestowed on each of us by

the Creator. According to experiments by leading neurologists, man uses but a very small percentage of the

electrical circuits in his brain for conscious thought in spite of the ages that have elapsed since he was

furnished with that organ.

In general, a faculty has been developed by Nature to overcome difficulties in a changing world. Regions

once fertile have become deserts, snow and ice have been replaced in other lands by jungle growth, and

regions once tropical are now covered by glaciers. The giraffe evidently developed its long neck to enable it

to feed on high scrub or trees after this growth displaced the grasses, the horse and many other animals

developed hooves to stand up to treading on hard stony ground, the ant-eater developed large claws, a long

tongue and a pronounced resistance to formic acid which is poison to most animals, and all other natural

organisms have, over thousands of years, adapted themselves for survival.

Man's brain, however, being capable of many times its present useful capacity, is an anachronism to the

evolutionary theory, unless the human race, although able to conquer its environment, is a survival of a race

of beings who developed brain power to an infinitely greater capacity and is losing ground in this respect, or,

alternatively, that the capacious brain has been bestowed on man by a bounteous Creator as a challenge to

him to develop the full use of it over his generations.

It is not given to all of us to trace out the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science, a duty which is enjoined

on us in our ceremonies, since the scientific discoveries which have been made over the last hundred years

have uncovered many of the secrets of Nature which were undreampt of by our ancient Brethren who were

responsible for the form of our ritual. The uses of electricity in its varied forms has revolutionised our world

and our thinking, and, to understand almost any of the latest discoveries and inventions of our scientists

would necessitate a special education in mathematics to a standard which can only be reached by a minute

percentage of the population. It is, however, in the use to which these discoveries are applied that the

attention of the ordinary individual should be directed, to ensure that they are utilised for the benefit of all,

and not to browbeat millions of people into the acceptance of this or that "ism."

For over 2000 years, from Pythagoras to Newton, the scientific knowledge of the world we live in was at a

very low ebb, because any discoveries that were made contradicted the firmly-held dogma that the earth was

the centre of the Universe, and that the Sun and the Planets revolved round it. Galileo, Tycho Brahe and

Kepler proved otherwise, but were prevented from completing their work by trying to fit their observations

and calculations to the last stronghold of their dogma that all perfect motion is circular, and that therefore all

orbits of heavenly bodies were of this form. However, their researches and conclusions, which were

faithfully written down, provided the information whereby Newton was able to formulate the Laws of

Gravity, thus laying the foundation for the spectacular increase in scientific knowledge gained in the last

century.

This desire for conformity to all the shibboleths of Society is still one of the greatest obstacles to the

promotion of a better world for all its inhabitants, These standards are, in the main, relics of the thinking of

by-gone years and often have little meaning or credence at the present day. They usually represent the

feelings, not the opinions, of people who have not yet awakened to the fact that conditions today are not

those of yesterday, and that change is the essence of life itself, They usually have the effect that any person

who does not uphold them in their entirety is wrong in his whole outlook on life and should be put away. A

very striking example of this attitude to hit the headlines in the U.S.A. was McCarthyism, which now seems,

if not dead, at least reduced in intensity. There are, however, thousands of people throughout the world who

still hold the view that any one with a skin not white is an inferior being.

With the Press, Radio and Television putting forward news and views tinged with prejudice or based on in-

complete knowledge, unless we keep our brains working and our minds open, we could easily find ourselves

lulled into a comforting belief that everyone else is wrong except our own country, our Government or its

Opposition Party, and ourselves as individuals.

Just as a sideline, it would seem that our Board of General Purposes is also very much concerned with

uniformity, so that very soon if not now, whatever we wish to do in our Lodges, we must look up the Book

of Constitution, as witness the size of the present volume plus the Book of Rulings plus Amendments since

the books were printed compared to the size of the 1921 volume. I am afraid that it reminds me personally of

the Scrummaging Laws in Rugby Football, of which in 1921 I think there were two, but these rules now fill

half this book. There is certainly a need for rules in any established organisation, but these rules should be as

few and in as Plain terms as possible, and, in any consideration of a proposed new rule, the fact that the

Lodges are the heart of Freemasonry and are not there merely to have a meeting once a year to silently

acquiesce in the whittling away of their rights and privileges by any Board or Committee unless it appears

that the motions proposed are in the interests of the Lodges themselves.

One of the most remarkable discoveries made by neurologists with regard to the action of the brain is that it

is capable of receiving impulses from outside sources and storing them up for future reference. This would

appear to be the action which provides us with our prejudices, which are made up from childhood education

or instruction, from words we have heard, from experiences in life, and from our reading and listening to

radio. Also, most of us have seen demonstrations of thought-reading and have probably put these down to

the use of some sort of code or other put-up job between the parties concerned, but this is apparently far from

the truth in selected cases. It is also a fact that often-repeated statements, whether true or false, and catch-

cries have the effect of implanting themselves in the brain and, later on, conditioning some of our thoughts or

actions, this being the medium much used by advertisers, and is also used by some Governments to condition

the minds of their people.

A Freemason, however, if he is worthy of that title, should be able to think for himself. By his obligations

and the teachings of the Craft, he should exercise his brain to the fullest extent commensurate with the

talents he has been given by his Creator, so that he does not accept opinions ready-made but formulates his

own, he is able to choose his own course in life and and to resist brain-washing from whatever source. He

should, as far as possible, view every subject under consideration not only from his own selfish ends, but

also from the interests of his neighbour, his neighbour being every person likely to be affected.

Brethren, we are living in what could be a wonderful world. Production of every material thing to sustain life

in full measure for every man, woman and child is freely available, as is also the means to keep most of the

world's population in good health, but the virtue of charity is lagging so far behind that it seems impossible

to bring it up to date; so that, while we and other nations are bountifully supplied, production must be

limited, although millions are on the verge of starvation.

This is the problem which must be solved, and quickly, in this world of ours, and we, as Freemasons,• should

individually or collectively be leading in the fight to end this state of affairs, so that future generations (not

so far in the future) will be able to enjoy the fruits provided by a bounteous Creator.

And, Brethren, as a pattern for thinking and working to this end, let me close with a quotation from the

Working Tools of the Second Degree:—

"To steer the barque of this life over the seas of passion without quitting the helm of rectitude is the highest

ideal to which human nature can attain: and, as the Builder raises his column by the Level and Perpendicular,

so ought every Freemason to conduct himself towards this world; to observe a due medium between avarice

and profusion, to hold the scales of Justice with equal poise, to subdue his passions and prejudices, and in all

his pursuits to have Eternity in view.

Thus, by square conduct, level steps, and upright intentions, we hope to ascend to those Eternal Mansions

whence all goodness emanates."

—————

How Masonry Works

A Masonic Lodge may be likened to a human body. The various officers are the limbs performing their

duties only as directed by the power of the head, represented by the Master. He alone has the power to make

the Lodge of benefit to its members and a power for good in the community. lie is a representative of one of

the three lights always displayed before him in the Lodge to remind him that it is his duty to dispense light

and information to all his brethren.—"Square and Compass."

George Washington took the oath of office as President of the United States upon the Holy Bible brought

from St. John's Lodge No. 1 of New York, and the oath was administered by Chancellor Livingston, Grand

Master of the State of New York.—California Freemason.

Whatever may be his trade, occupation, or profession, if a man does not in all his social and business trans-

actions deal honestly and squarely with his neighbour he is not a Freemason, and all the forms, ceremonies,

and ritual in the world cannot make him one. —.New South Wales Freemason.

—————

It is not unusual for the Tyler not to be a member of the Lodge he serves, but it is unusual for the Tyler not to

be a member 'of the Craft and be ineligible for membership. At the forming of Cataract Lodge of St.

Anthony, Minn., in 1851, none of the Brethren wanted to be outside the Lodge room, so the wife of one of

them served as Tyler for the meeting. This Lodge, in 1853, became No. 2 in the Grand Lodge of Minnesota,

and St. Anthony eventually became part of Minneapolis. —The Ohio Mason.

——————

Do You know Yourself TO Be a Mason

When that question was asked of you during the work of the first degree did it register as being of great

importance'? To most candidates it doesn't. Usually it appears to be just a question that occurs in the process

of instruction, and the answer seems to be very simple. In statement it is simple, of course, but as the student

of Masonry progresses he discovers that even the simplest of thoughts in Masonry have deep meanings

attached to them. Very little occurs in the work of the Craft that is of small significance.

All of us have noted certain brethren in our own and in other lodges who seem particularly apt to learn and

express themselves Masonically. These men are sure to be found at the head of lodge activities. They are

moving spirits. They know the work and they know how to get things done. Moreover, they appear to be

eager to advance the interest of their lodges. They think up things to do, or rather observe things that need

doing. Sometimes their energy even grates a little on ether brothers. Once in a while criticism may be heard

the burden of which is likely to be that these brothers are a trifle too ambitious.

One knows himself to be a Mason when he begins to view truth, honour, justice, and charity not as abstract

principles, but as practical everyday virtues which he must practice and exemplify in all of its relationships

with his fellowmen. When within him burns an intense desire to protect and advance the welfare of his

brethren and with its constant care, that no harm or injury comes to them through acts of his, a man may

know he is developing the Masonic spirit.

Such a thing may occur once in a while to be sure, but not often. As a rule the active brother is one who

knows he is a Mason, why he is one, and how he got that way. To such a brother the question of how he

knows he is a Mason is a sort of challenge. He knows very well the simple answer in the ritual isn't all of it

by any means. It is only the beginning. He knows the ceremony whereby he was brought to light was merely

the lighting of the lamp. By it he was able to enter the lodge, to greet the brethren Masonically, but so far as

actual work was concerned he was verily an Entered Apprentice. The light illuminated his own character and

revealed to him obligations owing to his fellowmen. It was then he began to understand knowing a few of the

secrets of the Craft is not what makes him a Mason.

It is true that many good men feel these same things without being Masons. But any Understanding Mason

knows such men would accomplish more and find greater joy in their service, if added to their natural

goodwill they had the encouragement, fellowship and inspiration of a great Fraternity wholly dedicated to

the same high a spirations.

You know yourself to be a Mason first by understanding the eternal principles upon which the Craft is

founded and then upon feeling in your own heart a clear response to their call. When, gradually, the new

brother learns of the glorious history of the Fraternity and begins to feel kinship with the' legions who went

this way before him; when in the events of the past he is able to discern the fine handicraft of brothers and

fellows, tracing out their beneficient influence in the progress of mankind, then he knows himself to be a

Mason in spirit and in truth.

The place to look for evidence that you are a Mason is not in the head, where memory of rituals, grips, signs

and tokens may be retained, but in the heart, from whence will flow the healing streams of brotherly love,

generosity, kindness, patience and goodwill. If those are found you will know your Masonic fellowship has

borne good fruit and you are in fact a Mason. —Masonic Chronicle.

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OHINEMURI CONVOCATION
The August convocation of the Ohinemuri Royal Arch Chapter, No. 17, was outstanding by reason of the

fact that the 40-year service jewel presentations on this occasion were to outstanding members—M.E.Comp.

G. H. Nicholls, of Te Aroha, and R.E.Comp. S. J. Hedge, of Paeroa. In recent months the Chapter has

presented 40-year service jewels to Comp. D. A. McWatters and V.E.Comp. J. A. Read, both of Paeroa.

M.E. Comp. G. H. Nicholls is the fourth member of Ohinemuri who has served as First Grand Principal, the

others being the late M.E.Comps G. H. Powley and M. J. Harris, and M.E. Comp. Sir Stephen S. Allen. He

served as First Principal in 1927-28, as Grand Supt, of Works in 1934, as Grand Supt. of Hauraki District in

1937-39, and as Grand Z in 1947. R.E. Comp. S. J. Hedge was exalted in Ohinemuri at the same convocation

in 1922 as M.E.Comp. Nicholls, and followed him in office as Grand Supt. of Works and Grand Supt. of the

Hauraki District. Except when overseas in the armed forces, R.E.Comp. Hedge has been an active member

of Ohinemuri Chapter since 1923.

The presentation of the jewels was made by the Grand Supt. of the Hauraki District, R.E.Comp. F. H.

Ibbotson, of Hamilton, and with him on the dais were eleven Grand Chapter officers from as far away as

Whangarei, Auckland, and Te Kuiti, five of the Ohinemuri members of Grand Chapter, and the Hauraki

Prov. G.Supt, of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Ireland, M.E.Comp. L. S. Judd, of Thames.

The toast in the refectory was proposed by V.E. Comp. D. E. Gallie, P.G.Std.Br., and that to the visitors by

V.E.Comp. W. H. Armour, who, With R.E. Comp, Hedge and V.E. Comp. Gallie, are the only wearers of

P.Z. jewels presented by Ohinemuri Chapter.

The work of the evening was the acknowledgement of three candidates including the E.King of Hauraki

Chapter No. 454 I.C., V.E.Comp, T. H. Hamerton, who is following the custom of joining us to receive the

Excellent Degree. The work of the W.E.M., V.E.Comp. C. A. Black, P.Z., and his team deserved the

congratulations they received.

v….......v…..…..v

LIGHT OF FREEMASONRY

What, then, is the light of Freemasonry? It is composed of many beams, which, like the colours of the

rainbow, united give the pure white beams the three primary colours, as we may call them—are Brotherly

Love, Relief and Truth.

Truth is of great importance, for every brother should be a true man, square in his conduct, upright in all his

actions. He who regulates his life according to the Masonic line and rule will walk justly and uprightly

before God and man, neither turning to the right nor left from the paths of virtue. The essence of truth is to

be true to one's self, true to one's neighbour, and to our God, And if a man is said to be a Freemason the

world should know that he is one whose tongue is kept from evil, and his life speaks no guile. -

Brethren it is our proud boast that this ray shines forth bright and clear from all lodges, and that to be a Free-

mason is, as it were a halfmark of integrity. May it ever continue to be as long as the Fraternity exists.

v….......v…..…..v

STEADY INCREASE

Rumours that Freemasonry is declining in strength are not borne out in fact. Latest American figures show

that there are 4,104,003 Freemasons in the United States—an Increase of 2,946 over 1959, There has been a

steady increase each year,

v….......v…..…..v

FAITH

This is the season when most of the lodges are installing new officers to guide and govern the affairs of your

lodge. We are reminded of a remark by Oliver Wendell Holmes, "It's faith in something and enthusiasm for

something that makes life worth looking at."

Your officers cannot do their best work to empty lodge rooms. Try to be present at the installation,

encourage them to plan special events that will bring out the membership. If your lodge has a trestleboard

that will attract your members, it will continue to grow and you will hold your present membership.

—————

THE COUGHING HABIT

Much intermittent coughing on the part of some Brethren interrupted and made hearing at times difficult. It

would appear to be more the outcome of a certain nervousness, sometimes beyond conscious control, or of

temporary uneasiness caused by difficulty to hear clearly, until the ear gets accustomed to surroundings, for

it was observed that it abated almost entirely as the meeting progressed and interest increased in the

proceedings. A little more individual self-control would appear to be the sole remedy to what is at times a

very disturbing factor and often a source of much embarrassment to the speakers, who are certainly entitled

to this brotherly consideration in their often difficult task.

The Responsibilities of the Worshipful Master

We recently received a copy of the above book written by V.W. Bro. R. H. D. Hewitt, P.G.I.W.. West

Australian Constitution.

It is most comprehensive, instructive and should be very useful to any Master or Officer about to be installed

into the Chair of S. It covers many subjects not found in our rituals, and we recommend it to our readers.

Bro. Hewitt is Editor of the West Australian Craftsman, 65 Murray Street, Perth, and the book may be

obtained for the small sum of 4/- A.C.

—————

Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you

you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising which tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To

map out a course of action and following it to the end requires some of the same courage which a soldier

needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men to win them.—Emerson.

—————

What is claimed to be the oldest Masonic gravestone in America lies in the famous burial grounds at

Plymouth, Mass. It is the monument marking the grave of Nath Jackson, a Mason, who died July 14, 1743, at

the age of 78. On this stone are carved a skeleton, a tomb, an hourglass, a rose tree and skull leaning against

a sprig of acacia.—Exch.

—————

Masonry needs nothing new, for her ritual is simple, impressive, unique and sublime, and her inculcations

are truths, immortal truths, with an adaptability to our race that must exist until wrong is banished from the

world, and virtue re-instated on her ancient throne—until suffering has no want to relieve, and sorrow no tear

to dry.

SOUTHLAND

Lodge St. John, No. 94, suffered the loss by death of a very highly esteemed member in the late V.W. Bro. J.

R. Battin, P.G.D.C. For many years the lodge has had the excellent services of this deceased member as

Secretary and it could be said of him that there never was a more conscientious man in that office. The late

V.W. Bro. was ill for a number of years and his passing is in some ways a very happy release from his

sufferings. During the whole period of his sickness he had the good fortune to be nursed by a very devoted

wife and her splendid services have been a shining example to all around her. In stature she was very small,

but in love and devotion she was indeed great.

….......…..…..

A very happy incident occurred at the recent installation ceremony of the Victoria Lodge when Wor. Bro. L.

A. H. Clode was installed Master of that lodge, the largest in New Zealand. A grandson of the first W.M.

made available the P.M. Jewel presented by the lodge, Victoria, No. 471, Irish Constitution, as it was then, in

the year 1883. It was in this year that the late W. Bro. Aaron Blacke was installed, he having come to New

Zealand in 1876. The late W. Bro. was initiated into the Abbey Lodge, Belfast, in 1870 and became W.M. in

1874. Upon arrival in Invercargill in 1876 he soon became interested in Freemasonry and helped to form

Victoria Lodge which was eventually constituted in 1883. After his term of office as the first W.M. he was

presented with a P.M. jewel and now, after all these years, it has been presented to the lodge by the

grandson, who does not happen to be a member of the Craft. Members of Victoria Lodge greatly rejoice in

the gift of the first P.M. jewel ever issued and are grateful to the donor. Over all these years the design of the

P.M. jewels has never altered. W. Bro. Clode is the first Master to have the honour of wearing the first P.M.

jewel issued by his lodge.

During the installation ceremony an opportunity was taken to pay a tribute to the retiring W.M. C. G. King,

for the very valuable services he rendered to his lodge during the past twelve months in particular. His

constant visiting to sister lodges and to sick brethren has marked him as being one to whom it could be

truthfully said "Of thy work, W. Bro., thou needest not be ashamed".

As usual the ceremonial work was undertaken by the P.M.'s of the Lodge and with Rt. W. Bro. Wm. Kelman

in the chair, ably assisted by V.W. Bro. J. H. Bucklingham, P.G.D.C., it was a great pleasure to witness.

….......…..…..

At Riverton on August 28th, Rt. W. Bro. G. C. Sim conducted the installation ceremony and installed Bro.

M. M. Fallow as Master of Lodge Aparima, No. 77. The attendance was very good and, in accordance with

usual custom, provision was made for all to have a most enjoyable evening. The Prov. G.M. announced at

the meeting that it would be the last time he would be in charge of similar proceedings at Riverton as the

time had arrived for him to hand over to a successor. The announcement was received with mixed feelings

and, as usual, speculation as to whom the successor will be, is rife. There will be many tributes paid to the

retiring Prov. Grand Master who has completed four years in office, controlling 25 strong and active lodges.

——— o ———

TARANAKI

A GOLDEN EVENT

Fifty years' efficient service by R.W. Bro. C. D. Grant to De Burgh Adams Lodge, No. 446, I.C., was

honoured at a well-attended June meeting of the lodge by the presentation of a handsome service jewel. In a

simple but most impressive presentation ceremony, held after the working of a second degree, the lodge's

longest-serving member, R.W. Bro. A. L. Hammond (now in his 62nd year of service) spoke warmly of

R.W. Bro. Grant's regular attendance at lodge meetings and of the efficient manner in which he had always

assisted in the ceremonial work. In reply, R.W. Bro. Grant sincerely thanked the Brethren for their kind

expression of thought.

….......…..…..

Our congratulations go to W. Bro. N. B. Bellringer, on the completion of approximately 40 years as

Secretary of Mount Egmont Lodge, No. 670, E.C., New Plymouth. Bro. Norman has indeed served his lodge

well and our English constitution in particular. Very best wishes in your retirement as Secretary, you will

still find much to do we feel sure, our many thanks for your assistance in the past.

Later in the refectory the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. H. Bishop, made a presentation of a travelling rug on

behalf of members of the lodge. Visiting brethren joined in paying many warm tributes to R.W. Bro. Grant.

A feature of the evening was the attendance of brethren and worshipful brethren who have completed 50

years' service. They were:

R.W. Bro. H. D. Caplen and W. Bros. H. J. P. Bleakley and A. H. Guy (all of Hawera), R.W. Bro. E. C.

Hayton and R.W. Bro. G. B. Edwards, and Bros. H. H. Mace and S King (of New Plymouth).

——— o ———

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON

To ensure that news coverage is received from the Nelson Lodges, will Lodge Secretaries please forward

reports to W. Bro. C. H. F. Kingsley, G.S., 28 Percy Street, Blenheim.

The Installation Meeting of Lodge Eckford No. 334 was held on Saturday, 1st September, when Bro. John

Macdonald Reid was duly installed as Master of the Lodge.

The Presiding Officer was R.W. Bro. A. E. Shuttleworth, Prov. G.M., while the Installing Officer was V.W.

Bro. Geo. Palk, Asst. Prov. G.M. and he carried out his duties in a most efficient manner.

The Prov. G.M. was supported by 22 Grand Lodge Officers, and there was also a very large attendance of

brethren of Lodge Eckford and other District Lodges as well as many visitors from more distant places. The

Worshipful Masters of all the other Marlborough Lodges, also the W.M. of Lodge Kaikoura, No. 60, were in

attendance and all were given a part in the ceremonies of the evening.

——— o ———

OTAGO

The Candidate for the Mark Degree at the August Convocation of Celtic Royal Arch Chapter, No. 42,

travelled all the way from London for the ceremony. He is V.E.Comp. F. E. Kempe, London Grand Chapter

Rank, a member of the Cathedral Chapter, No. 2741, London, whose brother, V.E.Comp. 0. A. Kempe, is

Second Principal in Celtic Chapter. V.E. Comp. 0. A. Kempe presided over the Mark Lodge, and the

ceremony was well conducted. The First Principal, V.E. Comp. S. W. Cleland, presided over the Chapter

Convocation, and welcomed the visitors, including the First Principal of every Royal Arch Chapter in

Dunedin. It was a splendid meeting.

——— o ———

RUAPEHU

The Grand Superintendent, R.E. Comp. P. C. Betts, took three members of Grand Chapter to the Installation

of Opunake Chapter, No. 78, on Saturday, 9th June, to cement the bonds of union between Ruapehu and

Taranaki Districts.

Rt Ex. Comp. J. H. Anderson, G. Supt. of Taranaki, installed the 1st P., V. Ex. Comp. R. H. Hughson.

R.E. Comp. E. Clince Little, P.G.H. (Ruapehu) installed the 2nd P., Ex. Comp. W. J. Johnston, and V. Ex.

Comp. G. Webb, P.G.D.C., the 3rd P., Ex. Comp. R. H. James.

Address to the officers was given by R.E. Comp. W. B. King, P.G.Lec. (Ruapehu).

A good time was had by all, the hospitality of our Taranaki companions being something to write home

about. It is anticipated that this visit will be repeated next year.

….......…..…..

The United Manawatu Mark Master Masons' Lodge, No. 1261, under the Grand Lodge of England, was con-

secrated in Palmerston North on Friday. 6th April, by the District Grand Master, .Rt. Wor. Bro. H. B. V.

Townshend, and the next day the Advancement

Ceremony was performed by a composite team

from Lodges of the district, when two candidates

were advanced.

This Mark Lodge is filling a gap in the Masonic

world, and, with a fine team of officers under Wor.

Bro. J. R. Penny, its future progress is assured.

CONNECTICUT - 1961

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Connecticut, 173rd

Annual Communications, Hartford, April 5-6, 1961.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. R. H. Milnes.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. P. D. Collier.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. E. K. Haling.

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. G. R. Gay.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. H. R. A. Vialoux, P.G.W.

133 lodges, 47,645 members, net loss 295.

The Grand Master mentioned that the physical plant of the Home and Hospital, with its fixed assets of nearly

two and a half million dollars is not large enough for the demands upon it. Each Freemason pays 25 cents per

annum, (included in his $6.00 ones), and this provides only about 40% of the operating expenses.

Less seriously, the Grand Master noted that "One of our Past Grand Masters, in reading the list of demitted

brothers in one lodge in the Proceedings for 1960 found that there were demitted Bros. John N. Souer and

William N. Sweet. Although the problem of losses in membership may be of some concern, at least one

lodge is trying to keep the thing balanced!"

A Committee of Masonic Culture and Public Relations has completed the preparation of an Officers' Manual,

and has approved the preparation of four booklets to be used in instructing candidates.

Preparations are being made to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Grand Lodge "with appropriate

ceremonies and eclat" in 1964.

A fairly full Fraternal Review does not include New Zealand.

g g g

FLORIDA - 1961

Proceedings of the M.W. Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of the State of Florida. 132nd Annual Grand

Communication held at Jacksonville, April 18, 19, 20, 1961.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. E. Larson.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. F. G. McQueen.

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

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. H. H. Stiles.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. H. Archbold, P.Prov.G.M.

285 lodges, 68,551 members, net gain, 1,366.

An annual assessment of three dollars per capita is now made upon each lodge for the maintenance and

operation of the Masonic Homes of Florida.

In February, 1961, a School for Secretaries was held at Jacksonville, with 80 lodges represented. It was so

successful that another was held in March.

This Grand Lodge lost its Grand Secretary after over 23 years of service on the retirement of R.W. Bro. G.

W. Huff, who died shortly after his retirement.

The Grand Master reported that he had granted the Grand Master of Cuba authority to reside, as Grand

Master of Cuba, within his Territory. M.W. Bro. Dr. J. J. Tarajano returned thanks during the proceedings,

and addressed the Brethren at some length on "The Tragedy of Cuba".

The Brethren of Leesburg Lodge, No. 58, are erecting a replica of K.S.T. on a site provided by the City of

Leesburg.

The history of the Grand Lodge for its first twenty-five years is to be published as Volume I of a complete

history, the preparation of which has now been put in hand.

There is no finality on a proposal to erect a new building in Jacksonville for purposes of Annual

Communications.

There is an appreciative note in the Fraternal Review about our own benevolent operations.

g g g

SOUTH DAKOTA — 1961

Grand Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, South Dakota. 87th Communication. Lead, June 13-14,

1961. Vol. XIX, No. 3.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. S. Rowe.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. G. F. Westover.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. E. F. Strain.

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. N. C. Dewhirst.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. D. McCormick, P.Dep.G.M.

168 lodges, 20,098 members, net loss, 222.

The Grand Secretary's report is his twentieth, and he claims that in sixteen of these he has been able to show

a net gain in membership. Last year's loss was 98 and this year's 222, but there are signs of recovery.

This Grand Lodge has in the Grand Lodge Building at Sioux Falls, a complete and uniform set of portraits of

its Grand Masters, as well as a partial set of portraits of its Grand Secretaries.

This is the third year of publication of the Grand Lodge Masonic Messenger. Four issues were completed

this year. The publication goes to Grand Lodge Officers and all Masters, Wardens and Secretaries.

Wardens' Manuals are prepared and to be published.

R. W. Strain having become President of the Grand Secretaries' Association, steps were taken to enable him

for the first time to travel beyond the boundaries of North America.

There is a Fraternal Review, but New Zealand is not included.

g g g

SOUTH AUSTRALIA — 1961

Proceedings of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of South Australia. Vol.

LXXVII, year ended April 19, 1961.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. the Hon. Mr. Justice D. B. Ross.

Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. the Hon. Mr. Justice D. B. Ross.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. F. J. Ellen.

Grand representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. the Hon. Mr. Justice D. B. Ross.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. H. G. West, P.Prov.G.M.

205 lodges, 27,775 members, net gain, 445.

£4447 has been contributed towards the amount required from Grand Lodge, £9650 for the new flatlets at

Colonel Light Gardens. An amount of £18,110 was received from the Commonwealth Government by way

of subsidy. The flatlets are for the accommodation of aged Brethren and aged wives, and Grand Lodge took

possession of them from the South Australian Housing Trust in June, 1960. They will accommodate up to 24

elderly people.

Not satisfied with progress to date, the Grand Lodge proposes to increase the accommodation to provide

housing for aged widows of Brethren of the jurisdiction living alone.

Efforts to revive the defunct South Australian Freemason have resulted in the appearance of a successor, the

New South Australian Freemason, with adequate financial backing and a useful programme of publication.

Very friendly notice is accorded New Zealand's activities in the Fraternal Review, which is confined in this

issue to England, the Australian States, and ourselves.

g g g

WISCONSIN — 1961

Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin. June 13 and 14, 1961,

Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. E. W. Stegner.

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

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. P. W. Grossenbach.

Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. E. C. Rusten.

Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. W. J.

Dawson, P.Dep.G.M.

304 lodges, 63-033 members, net loss, 658.

reached 27,000: it is distributed free, but only to

Brethren

reached 2,000: it is distributed free, but only to

Brethren who make written request for it.

A motion to permit the Masonic Burial of Entered

Apprentices and Fellow Crafts was lost.

Because the matter of Cuban relief had fallen so

heavily on the Freemasons of Florida, the' Grand

Lodge voted to appropriate 10,000 dollars for the

benefit of Cuban Masonic exiles in Florida.

There is an active "Secretaries' Section."

Recently elected Honorary Members of this Grand

Lodge are Dr. Theodor Vogel, P.G.M., United

Grand Lodges of Germany; Richard Dupuy, Grand

Master, Grand Lodge of France, and Hipolito

Marcano, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Puerto

Rico.

The handsomeiy-bound volume includes among the

Appendixes the full text of the Constitution of the

Grand Lodge, the Laws of Grand Lodge,

Regulations for Lodges. Trial Code, Resolutions,

Decisions, Edicts; all with Amendments up to date.

A further Appendix is the report of the Wisconsin

Masonic Home Board, which houses 109 guests, 31

of them permanently hospitalised, and there is an

extensive report from the Foreign Correspondent

with over a page devoted to M.W. Bro. C. H.

Taylor's Installation Address.