THE TYLER'S TOAST
In a society so widely extended as Freemasonry, it cannot be concealed that there are some members who,
perhaps from unavoidable calamity and misfortune, are reduced to the lowest ebb of poverty and distress.
It is our custom to drink to these Brethren after every meeting of our lodges, with honours which refer to the
means of benevolence, the heart expanded by benevolence, and the hand prompt to execute the benevolent
design.
Much of the wealth of the Craft is held in trust for the relief of distress among Brethren and their dependents,
and we claim Charity as our distinguishing characteristic. In various ways lodges contribute towards the
benevolent funds of Grand Lodge, and lodges maintain as well as their own benevolent funds, so that they
may as far as possible look after their own, without making a call upon the Craft at large.
In the welfare state there is sometimes concern to see that the benevolence of such an institution as
Freemasonry is fully effective, and does not operate simply to relieve the community of the responsibilities it
has recognised on behalf of all its citizens. The benevolence of the Craft is intended as a supplement to and
not as a substitute, for what is already done.
In this matter of trusteeship the Craft has always been well served, and the funds subscribed by the Brethren
have been put to work and used to the full for the purposes for which they have been intended. Gradually the
establishments maintained by the Craft have been increased, and no Brother subscribing funds for benevolent
purposes, or making testamentary provision for his fellows, can feel any doubt but that full effect will be
given to his intentions.
But the Tyler's Toast goes further than our own boundaries. It refers to our poor and distressed Brethren,
where'er they may be. It would be a restrictive interpretation which would suggest that this meant simply
Brethren of the New Zealand Constitution. Whether at the time within New Zealand or beyond. It means,
clearly, all poor and distressed Freemasons.
In the very charge which refers to our Brethren who are reduced to the lowest ebb of poverty and distress, it
is claimed that Freemasonry is a widely extended society; the branches of which are spread over the four
quarters 'of the globe. The claim is less valid than it used to be. There are, no doubt Freemasons in most
countries, but there are some countries where the Craft cannot operate 'openly and in most of these it does
not operate at all. Masonic persecution, the harrying of Freemasons, is by no means a thing of the past. We
have many members who can be described as poor and distressed.
The most recent instance of persecution is Cuba, where the Grand Lodge is under interdict, the Grand
Master, M.W. Bro. J. J. Tarajano in exile in Florida, and the immediate future of the Craft is bleak indeed.
The Grand Lodge of Florida, operating in an adjacent wealthy territory, has afforded asylum and practical
help. It has been more than a gesture, it has been an example, an example which other Grand Lodges have
followed up with gifts of money 'for the relief of distressed Cuban Freemasons.
Grand Lodges are individually sovereign. Recognition operates through numerous bilateral arrangements.
There is no central registry, and there is no supreme federation of Grand Lodges. No Grand Lodge is
subservient to any other. This is the way the Craft is organised, and perhaps it is as well. It serves at least as a
deterrent from any thought of Masonic participation in politics. It means, however, that any gesture towards
the relief of distress must be made by the individual Grand Lodges, for there is no central body to organise it.
Whether or not any Grand Lodge wishes to make a practical gesture in any particular case, it is as well for
the Freemason to remember, when he honours the Tyler's Toast, that he is drinking to all his poor and
distressed Brethren without exception, and that the
honours suggest a practical follow-up for the wish
the toast expresses. In time a climate of
benevolence may be created which will transcend
national boundaries as membership of our
institution already does itself.
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.
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.
Hugh F. Bradley, Omana R.D. Tangiteroria, Northland.
W. A. Burnham, Wayside Dairy, Beach Road, Rothesay Bay, North Shore.
A. F. Murray, 25 Balmoral Road, Epsom, Auckland.
R. A. Parker, 7 Rugby Road, Birkenhead, Auckland.
M. Wadsworth, 14 Charles Street, Putaruru.
D. J. Cooper, Westwood No. 8 R.D., Masterton.
C. D. Landells, No. 2 RD., Matamata.
Paul Titcheniner, 9 Morrins Street, Ellerslie, S.E.6.
The Spirit of Christmas
By R.W. Bro. J. L. Cowie, Past Senior Gd. Warden, N.S.W.
Once again, this Earth, our haven, has nearly completed another orbit around the Sun, reminding us as
Freemasons, that the spirit of Christmas is very fragrant in this seasonal atmosphere. We, who have had
another successful year of Freemasonry, offer our thankfulness to the Great Architect. And to those Brethren
who have not been so fortunate we extend the hand of friendship.
It seems to be right and proper that we, as Freemasons, should foregather on such occasions to mark the
Christmas season, for the spirit of Freemasonry and the spirit of Christmas have much in common. Indeed, if
we minutely analyse the full meaning and purpose of Christmas and the fundamentals of Freemasonry, we
shall find a common ground for joy and rejoicing. We shall see the same basic principles at work, and the
ideals of one, very closely interwoven with the other.
Both bring us very close to God Himself. Whilst we may not be conscious of it, and may have some
hesitancy in admitting it, we are in touch with the Divine when we keep in reality the spirit of Christmas,
because he who fully maintains the true spirit of this Season must exhibit those qualities of soul which are
born of the Almighty.
Brother Edgar Guest has written some thoughtful lines which illustrate this point:
A man is at his finest towards the finish of the year;
He is almost what he should be when Christmas season's here;
Then he's thinking more of others than he has thought the months before,
And the laughter of his children is a joy worth toiling for.
He is less a selfish creature than at any other time;
When the Christmas spirit rules him he comes close to the Sublime.
Man is ever in a struggle and he is oft misunderstood;
There are days, the worst that is in him, is the master of the good.
But at Christmas, kindness rules him, and he puts himself aside,
And his petty hates are vanquished and his heart is open wide,
Oh, I don't know how to say it, but sometimes it seems to me,
That at Christmas, man is almost what God sent him here to be.
It is a very good thing, I think, to remember and celebrate the Christmas season, I would go further and say
that when the world forgets to keep, or designedly eliminates the age-old and established customs of
Christmas, it will soon forget God Himself. And a world without God and the spirit of Christmas is hopeless
and lost.
Some may ask: What is the spirit of Christmas of which we speak? I like to think of it in the simple terms of
"Forgetting and Remembering". Christmas is a good time to forget many things. The trouble with a lot of us
is that we have good memories. We remember in minute detail, most of the incidents we should forget, if we
wish to enjoy peace of mind. I want to suggest to you that the great Festival should be the occasion to forget.
To cast into the limbo of things forgotten, the wicked, petty and miserable deeds which have marred our
friendships and made for so much bad feeling, in the days gone by. We can show our breadth of soul, and
exhibit the finest qualities of character, by forgetting the unkind actions of friends and companions. But more
important still, by doing so, we shall bring into our own lives, as well as that of others, that touch of love and
sympathy, which shall bring joy to us as well as to them.
Henry Van Dyke has written the following words which well illustrate this point:
"Are you willing to forgive what you have done for other people, and what other people have done for
you; to ignore what the world owes you, and to think what you owe the world; to put your rights in the
background, your duties in the middle distances, and your chances to do a little more in the foreground; to
see that your fellowmen are just as real as you are, and try to look behind their faces into their hearts,
hungry for joy; to own that, probably, the only good
reason for your existence is not what you are going
to get out of life but what you are going to give life;
to close your book of complaints against the
management of the universe, and look around you
for a place where you can sow a few seeds of
happiness? Are you willing to do these things, even
for a day? Then, you can keep Christmas."
In addition to being a good time to forget, Christmas
is the right time to remember. To remember the
lovely and good things our friends have done for us;
their loyalty and their faithfulness, even when we did
not deserve it. To remember the measure of health
and strength with which we have been blessed, whilst others have been impaired. To remember the success
and progress we have made in our business or profession; that we have a job to do and the capacity to do it.
Most important of all is to remember that out of the first Christmas morn, nearly 2,000 years ago, has come
down the ages to us, a civilisation which has given us liberty of thought and action, the freedom to worship
and to revere. Has provided us with a plan .of life to follow that will lead to immortality. Has given us hope
and confidence as to the future, and has bequeathed to us the spirit of courage to destroy the devils of fear
and hopelessness.
Can you imagine what this world would have been without that first Christmas morn? What would this world
be today if we banished all the festivities and customs associated with Christmas, and took no steps to
commemorate that day and simply regarded it as any other? And yet, there are men and movements who
would do so if they could. To them it is but another religious festival to be banned, as it typifies a liberty of
freedom which they would deny to men, and does not suit their purpose of regimenting men's souls as well
as their lives.
These, my Brethren, are some of the things we should remember at Christmas. And how may we best keep
Christmas? First, by maintaining the age-old custom of making gifts, of family reunions, of Christmas
dinners, of good cheer and flowing cups of rejoicing. The greatest asset of a nation is the tone of its family
life. It is a grand thing to find the family gathering from far and near, to celebrate in the old home, the Spirit
of Christmas.
Secondly, we can best keep Christmas by regarding it as a time for re-consecration of self to the service of
the community, and the acceptance of those duties, we as Masons are taught to accept and perform. We must
again see that Guiding Star in the East, and allow it to lead us on, as it did the wise men of old. We must
attune our ears to catch again the Angelic Message of "Peace on Earth". In this atmosphere alone can we
fully appreciate the Spirit of Christmas.—The Freemasons' Chronicle.
When a man has no longer any conception of the excellence above his own, his voyage is done:
he is dead; dead in the trespasses and sins of blear-eyed vanity.—Beecher.
—————
DEACONS AND THEIR DUTIES
By W. Bro. Herbert F. Inman
It would be difficult in these days for even the most imaginative Brother to conceive a mental picture of our
Craft ceremonies being carried out without the assistance of those Brethren who are distinguished by the
familiar emblem of a Dove bearing an Olive Branch, the symbol of peace and knowledge. Yet the general
adoption of the office of Deacon, as it is known today, is of fairly modern origin in private Lodges working
under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of England. In the early Scottish and Irish Lodges, Deacons were
important officials and in the ancient records of a
few private English Lodges references to Deacons
are to be found as far back as the early part of the
18th century; but these useful Officers were not
commonly known in English Lodges working
under the Regular Grand Lodge until some eighty
years later. It was on December 13th, 1809, that the
Brethren of the Lodge of Promulgation resolved
that:—
"Deacons, being proved on due investigation to be
not only ancient, but useful and necessary Officers,
be recommended."
The fact that, prior to that time, Deacons had not been considered necessary Officers in the majority of
English Lodges, suggests that the respective ceremonies of Making, Passing and Raising a Mason must have
been of a simple order, with very little work of a ceremonial nature.
The Deacon's jewel, as we know it today, is the Dove bearing a Branch of Olive, but it is interesting to
remember that the emblem was originally the Greek God Hermes, the Herald and Messenger of the gods,
represented with winged cap and ankles, bearing the Caduceus adorned with wings to symbolise speed, and
entwined with a pair of serpents representing wisdom and health.
It seems that the figure of Hermes, or Mercury, as the emblem of the Deacons, is far more interesting—and
far more accurate in its symbolism—than is the Dove. Our Deacons are admittedly Messengers, but they are
also conductors. The dove was the messenger of peace and hope, but certainly not a conductor. Hermes, on
the other hand, was not only the Herald and Messenger of the gods, he was also a Conductor. He is, of
course, the counterpart of the Roman Mercury, and in Greek mythology we find that he was the Conductor
of the souls of the dead to the Greek god Hades, otherwise known as Pluto.
Important Duties
It has been mentioned that in the past there were no Deacons in the Lodges working under the Regular Grand
Lodge. In these modern times, as is well known, the duties of the Deacon are of the utmost importance.
Indeed, if any one office in the Lodge may be said to be greater than any other, it is surely that of the
Deacon. Even though the work of the Master may be imperfect, smart and correct work by the Deacons will
do much towards removing an unfavourable impression of the proceedings as a whole. On the contrary, it is
equally true that, however impressive and excellent may be the work of the Master, the whole effect of the
ceremony will inevitably be ruined should the Deacons perform their duties in a slipshod, hesitating manner.
Every Deacon, Senior or Junior, must have a thorough knowledge of the Ritual if he is to be efficient and
reliable in the discharge of his important duties. The Deacon who is happily conversant with the Ritual will
know what to do, how to do it, and when to do it, and any awkward hiatus in the proceedings will thus be
avoided.
First impressions in Masonry, as in other spheres of life, are often indelible. Gentle firmness, combined with
complete self-control and proper knowledge, on the part of the Junior Deacon, may do much towards
producing in the Candidate's mind a love for the Craft which may never fade with the passing of the years.
Much may be done by the tactful Junior Deacon to help a Candidate. It is an excellent plan to have a brief,
friendly chat with the candidate before the Ceremony, when the ice may be broken and a few friendly hints
conveyed, without, of course, revealing anything that should remain hidden. The Junior Deacon can tactfully
explain that the ceremony about to take place is one of a serious and solemn nature.
The Initiate's Companion
Another point which the Junior Deacon might bear
in mind is that the candidate is sometimes rather
overlooked during the period immediately prior to
the commencement of dinner. This should not
happen; the candidate's proposer should be looking
after him, but it does happen at times. The Junior
Deacon should be on the watch for anything of the
sort, and if neither the Director of Ceremonies nor
any other Brother attends to the matter, he should
make himself the Initiate's companion during the
interval, and see that he is escorted to the dining
room and shown his seat before the Master is
announced.
For obvious reasons detailed instructions for Brother
Deacons cannot be set out here; the younger
Brethren may be urged to remember that there is one
place, and one place only, where they can acquire
the requisite knowledge to fit them for the proper
discharge of their obligations. That place, needless to say, is within a properly constituted Lodge of
Instruction presided over by a competent and trustworthy Preceptor.
Make yourselves thoroughly efficient Deacons, my Brethren, and there is no doubt that you will prove
yourselves good Masters. —The Masonic Record.
—————
Grand Lodge of New Zealand
73rd Communication
The 73rd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand was held in Rotorua on Wednesday,
November 21st. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. William Martin, presided at the business session.
The unanimous choice of the Craft of R.W. Bro. Francis Prideaux, P. Dep. G.M., of Whakatane, for election
to the office of Grand Master for the ensuing year was confirmed by Grand Lodge.
ELECTIVE OFFICERS
Brethren recommended by the Board of Grieral Purposes for election in Grand Lodge for 1962-63 were duly
elected as follows:
WAIKATO DISTRICT
Grand Treasurer, W. Bro. James F. Frew; Grand Registrar, V.W. Bro. Gilbert B. Murray, P.Asst.Prov.G.M.;
President Board of General Purposes, V.W. Bro. Kenneth W1 Low, P.G.Lec.; President Board of
Benevolence, V.W. Bro. Alan B. Boswell, P.G.C.; Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. A. Maitland
Poole, P.G.S.; Grand Superintendent of Works, W. Bro. Douglas E. Trevarthen; Asst. Grand Director of
Ceremonies, W. Bro Verne Towers, P.G.P.; Grand Stewards, W. Bros. Harold T. Gunter and David J.
Scragg;
Members' Board of General Purposes, R. W. Bro. Geo. Gilchrist, P.Prov.G.M.; R. W. Bro. John M. Noble,
P.Prov.G.M.; R.W. Bro. Prentice A. Kusabs, P.G.W.; V.W. Bro. George B. Henry; P.Asst.Prov.G.M., V.W.
Bro. John N. Anderson, P.G.Lec.; W. Bros. William L. Hollis, P.G.D.; Clement A. Suckling, P.G.S.; Peter S.
Lewis; Alexander Murdoch; Reginald A. Pickett; George naves; Alan M. Swain.
Members' Board of Benevolence, R.W. Bro. George Gilchrist, P.Prov.G.M.; R.W. Bro. John M. Noble,
P.Prov. G.M.; R.W. Bro. Prentice A. Kusabs, P.G.W.; V.W. Bro. George B. Henry, P.Asst. Prov.G.M.; V.W.
Bro. John N. Anderson, P.G.Lec.; W. Bros. Wm. L. Hollis, P.G.D.; Clement A. Suckling, P.G.S.; Peter S.
Lewis; Alexander Murdoch; Reginald A. Pickett; George Purves; Alan M. Swain.
CANTERBURY PROVINCE
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. William M. Wilson; Senior Grand Deacon, W. Bro. Ernest R.
McDonald; Asst. Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. John D. Boyd; Grand Standard Bearer, W. Bro.
Jonathan E. S. Newson; Grand Stewards, W. Bros. George A. Court-Patience; Stanley W. M. Smith; Hector
Carlton.
Members' Board of General Purposes, R.W. Bro. John S. Hawker; R.W. Bro. Alan F. Fisher, P.Dep.G.M.
Members' Board of Benevolence, R.W. Bro. John S. Hawker, Dep. G.M. and R.W. Bro. Alan F. Fisher,
P.Dep.G.M.
AUCKLAND DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Lindsay H. Brookes, Asst.G.D.C.; Asst. Grand Director of
Ceremonies, W. Bro. Irvine Stormont, P.G.S.; Grand Bible Bearer, W. Bro. Joseph D. Law; Grand Standard,
Bearer, W. Bro. Frederick A. Osborne; Grand Stewards, W. Bros. James M. Goodall; Lloyd Elsmore; James
R. Brown. Members' Board of General Purposes, W. Bros. Douglas L. Bell; Norman E. Toder. Members'
Board of Benevolence, W. Bros. Douglas L. Bell and Norman E. Toder.
WELLINGTON DISTRICT
Grand Chaplain, W. Bro. William D. Dobson, P.G.P.; Grand Director of Ceremonies, V.W. Bro. Errol S.
Donne, G.D.C.; Asst. Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. John A. Kellow; Grand Stewards, W. Bros.
McKenzie Wilson; J. Hamilton Dunlop; Cecil G. A. Smith; H. J. Schmidt; Grand Tyler; W. Bro. Douglas J.
Balls.
Members Board of General Purposes, R.W. Bro. Edward A. Sargent, P.Prov,G.M. and W. Bro. Charles J.
Tustin.
Members Board of Benevolence, R.W. Bro. Edward A. Sargent, P.Prov.G.M. and W. Bro. Charles J. Tustin.
OTAGO DISTRICT
Grand Chaplain, V.W. Bro. Thomas G. Hislop, P.G.Lec.; Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Mataura J.
Boardman, Asst. G.D.C.; Junior Grand Deacon, W. Bro. James A. Todd; Asst. Grand Director of
Ceremonies, W. Bro. Robert Leslie; Grand Stewards, W. Bros. Leith L. McCallum and Leonard L Box.
Members' Board of General Purposes, R.W. Bro. Edward Doolan, Pres.Bd.Ben. and W. Bro. W. E. Currie.
Members' Board of Benevolence, R.W. Bro. Herbert R. Mitchell, P.Prov.G.M. and V.W. Bro. William H.
Tucker, Pres.Bd.G.P.
SOUTHLAND DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Felix C. Pizey, P.G.S.; Junior Grand Deacon, W. Bro. John D.
Waddell;
Grand Stewards, W. Bros. Richard W. Smith and Edgar G. Wilson; Member Board of General Purposes, W.
Bro. Maurice W. Grantham; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. Maurice W. Grantham.
RUAPEHU DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Kenneth L. Vile, P.G.S.; Grand Pursuivant, W. Bro. John W.
Walton; Grand Stewards, W. Bros. Norman J. Viles and James A. Spurdle; Member Board of General
Purposes, W. Bro,. William Bracks; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. Cyril R. Robotham.
HAWKE'S BAY DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Robert L. Dine, P.G.P.; Grand Sword Bearer, W. Bro. Allan V.
Galloway; Grand Steward, W. Bro. Leonard J. Webb; Member Board of General Purposes, W. Bro.
Frederick J. B. Beattie; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. Frederick J. B. Beattie.
NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Keith E. Wadsworth; Grand Organist, W. Bro. William E. Clark;
Grand Steward, W. Bro. David R. Lockhart; Member Board of General Purposes, R.W. Bro. Francis F.
Boustridge, P.Dep. G.M.; Member Board of Benevolence, R.W. Bro. Francis F. Boustridge, P.Dep.G.M.
TARANAKI DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. John J. Peacock; Senior Grand Deacon, W. Bro. Geoffrey L. Pease;
Grand Steward, W. Bro. Lewis M. Nicholl; Member Board of General Purposes, W. Bro. James McFarlane;
Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. James McFarlane.
WESTLAND DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Robert Blair, P.G.S.; Grand Bible Bearer, W. Bro. John W. Dalzell;
Grand Steward, W. Bro. William E. C. Staples; Member Board of General Purposes, W. Bro. William F.
Cropp; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. Frederick S. Peart.
NORTHLAND DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. J. Frank Leslie, P.G.Swd.B.; Grand Pursuivant, W. Bro. Murdoch N.
McLeod; Grand Steward, W. Bro. T. John C. Smith; Member Board of General Purposes, W. Bro. Wallace
Lomax; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. Alexander L. Little.
SOUTH AUCKLAND DISTRICT
Grand Director of Ceremonies, V.W. Bro. George L. G. Sharp, G.D.C.; Grand Sword Bearer, W. Bro.
Richard D. Viskovich; Grand Steward, W. Bro. Leonard J. P. Meiklejohn; Member Board of General
Purposes, W. Bro. William C. Watt; Member Board of Benevolence, W. Bro. James R. Hardie.
FUNDS AND FINANCE
The statement of accounts and Annual Balance Sheet for the year ended September 30th, 1962, included the
following items, with comparative figures for one previous year:
1962 1961
£ £
Widows and Orphans and Aged Persons Fund—
Capital Account. – 453,279
Provision for Loans Allocated – 7,258
Income Account – 60,392
Fund of Benevolence 643,519 103,064
Dempsey Orphan Fund 1,247 1,195
Panmure Homes Trust .. 1,580 1,580
Masonic Bursary Fund – 1,788
Sundry Creditors 394
EXPENDITURE
1962 1961
£ £
Advertising and Publishing Reviews 161 130
Annual Communication 1,045 948
Audit 152 158
Depreciation . 496 480
Exchange and Bank Charges 178 174
Fee for Reviews 52 52
Fifty Years' Service Badges 480 330
Grand Officers' Expenses, Calliope Visit 466 –
Grand Officers' Expenses 925 837
Grant to Research Lodges 500 400
Insurances 75 92
Legal Expenses .. . 27 63
Light, Heat and Cleaning 386 379
Miscellaneous, – 10
O.S.M. Jewels . – 7
Overseas Annuities 167 180
Pensions 240 240
Postages, Telephones, etc. 653 472
Printing and Stationery 2,004 1,879
Provincial Grand Masters' Expenses 1,548 1,050
Rates, Pukerua Bay 11 11
Repairs, Fittings, Furniture and Equipment 24 29
Repairs, Regalia and Jewels 69 21
Rent of Board Room 35 31
Representatives' Expenses 3,105 –
Salaries 8,484 7,746
Special Committee's Expenses 128 38
Subscriptions to Masonic Journals 4 5
Superannuation 391 331
£21,806 £15,993
INCOME
1962 1961
£ £
By-law Fees. 96 82
Charter Fees 74 52
Dispensation Fees .. 264 251
Grand Lodge Dues 14,899 11,284
Initiation and Certificate Fees 2,938 2,974
Joining Fees 348 357
P.M. Enrolment .. . 418 418
Sale of Books .. 250 233
19,287 15,651
Loss on Year's Working 2,519 342
FUND OF BENEVOLENCE
Annuities .. 22,404
Grants to:
Individuals. 2,576
Masonic Charities . .. 18,259
Public Charities. 2,000
22,835
Bursaries 2,331
Loans written off . 431
Balance September 30th, 1962 .. 643,519
£ 691,520
£ £
Transfers from:
W. & O. & A.P. Fund Capital Account 453,280
W. & O. & A.P. Fund Income Account 60,392
W. & O. & A.P. Fund Provisions. 7,258
520,930
Masonic Bursary Fund 1,788
—— 522,718
Income:
Contributions from Lodges 42,941
Contributions from Others 2,631
Fees of Office 115
Interest from Investments 20,048
Dividends from Shares 3
—— 65,738
LODGE CONTRIBUTIONS
Voluntary contributions to the Widows' and Orphans' and Aged Persons' Fund for the year were shown as
18/8d. per capita for the Dominion, compared with 19/- in the previous year. The Auckland District headed
the list with 22/7 per capita, the South Auckland District showed 20/3d., Canterbury Province 20/2d., Nelson
and Marlborough District 19/10d., Otago District and Northland District 18/7d. Other Districts ranged down
to 12/- per capita.
CONDITION OF THE CRAFT
1961-62
Membership at June 30th last year .. 46,669
Charter members of new Lodges .. 153
Initiations .. 1,398
Joinings 748
—— 2,299
48,968
Less:
Resigned .. 1,143
Struck off or resigned in arrears .. 121
Deceased .. 739
—— 2,003
46,965
The net gain was 296, compared with 307 the previous year.
KIRKPATRICK INSTITUTE
The Chairman of Kirkpatrick Masonic Institute for girls in Nelson reported that the year showed a very
substantial excess of expenditure over income, the deficit being £1,788. This was attributable to two main
causes; a reduction of some £900 in donations; and an increase of £700 in expenditure, principally on repairs.
Although some reduction in expenditure could be expected this year, the Institute could not budget on
spending less in expenditure than £4,800. Against this, certain income from the capital fund and investments
be only in the region of £1,800 and for the balance of £3,000 must look to donations from Lodges and grants
from Grand Lodges: "We have never yet received £3,000 in donations in one year reported the chairman and
the position is one for serious concern. The Institute is conducted on behalf of the whole Craft in New
Zealand and whilst the Board of Governors is very happy to devote whatever time is necessary for the
normal affairs of day-to-day running, I feel that they should not be burdened with the task of soliciting
donations.
"I am sure that the attitude of brethren today, as illustrated by the contributions in recent years to various
worthy causes, is such that any proposal for the taking over the financial reponsibility of the Institute by one
or more Grand Lodges would have their full support. Unless this can be done, we must appeal to Lodges to
increase their last year's donations by 50 per cent."
Further items from the Communication will be published in the January issue of the "Craftsman".
AUCKLAND
OBITUARY
R.W. Bro. Frederick Bartlett, P.G.W.
A very much esteemed and loved brother in the person of R.W. Bro. Frederick Bartlett passed to the Grand
Lodge Above on October 26th, at the age of 88. He was initiated in Lodge Manukau, No. 24, on 13th
September, 1905, was installed as W.M. on 6th March, 1912, and again in 1915 and 1922. He was elected an
Honorary Member in 1952. He was elected Senior Grand Deacon in 1928, and promoted to the rank of P.G.
Warden in 1956.
R.Ex. Comp. Bartlett was exalted in the Auckland Provincial R. A. Chapter, No. 9, in 1924, was a Founder
of Manukau Chapter, No. 59, in 1924, and installed as First Principal of the latter Chapter in 1926. The
Chapter elected him an Honorary Member in 1944. He had received the ranks of W.C.N. and M.E.C. Grand
Chapter elected him G.D. of C. in 1934, and he was promoted to the rank of P.G.Sc.N. in 1950, and to that of
P. Third G. Principal in 1956.
Ill. Bro. Bartlett was perfected in Kintore Rose Croix Chapter, No. 51, S.C., in 1930, affiliated with
Auckland Chapter, No. 266, E.C., in 1934, and was a Founder of Maungakiekie Chapter, No. 314, in 1936.
He was M.W.S. of No. 314 in 1938, and was Recorder for many years. He was promoted to the 30th degree
in 1948, to the 31st in 1949, and to the 32nd in 1956.
Ven. Frater Bartlett was created a Knight Templar in the Preceptory of De Molay in 1929, and a Knight of
Malta in 1930. He was installed as Preceptor in 1927. In the District Grand Priory of New Zealand he held
various offices from Dist. G. Steward to Dist. G. Mareschal in the years 1941 to 1945 inclusive.
In all those branches of Masonry he continued to be an active worker until his death. His ritual was most
impressive, and he was thought by many eminent brethren to be unsurpassed in N.Z. His delivery of the
Addresses to the Masters and First Principals in Lodges and Chapters respectively were particularly known
throughout Auckland.
His Church was filled to overflowing for his funeral service, and the tribute paid to him by the Vicar was a
fitting tribute to one whose gentle and kindly nature had endeared him to his associates at the Onehunga
Woollen Mills during his working life, the Masons who knew him, and all who came in contact with him.
The Masonic service at Waikaraka Cemetery was conducted by the W.M. of Lodge Manukau, and the pall
bearers included M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, P.G.M. and M.E. Comp. A. Burns, P.G.Z. The sympathy of all is
extended to his two sons and his grandchildren—A.B.
WAIKATO
The Waikato district in general and the Tokoroa district in particular suffered a severe loss in the sudden
death of W. Bro. Arthur Fred Kruse, P.G.B.B. at the Waikato hospital on Friday, October 12th. W. Bro.
Kruse was initiated in Lodge Kaponga, No. 208, in 1924, and became W.M. in August, 1931. He moved to
the Morrinsville district in 1939, and was an active member of Lodge Piako, No. 160, until taking up a farm
at Tokoroa in 1942, when he joined Lodge Tirau, No. 193. It was mainly through the keen Masonic interest
of W. Bro. Kruse that Lodge Tokoroa was constituted in 1949. He was a foundation member of that Lodge
and was its Lodge Almoner for five years. He was also a foundation member of Lodge Orakau, No. 390,
founded in 1958, was its first W. Master and later was appointed its Lodge Almoner which position he held
until his death. He was also a foundation member of the Tokoroa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 102, and has been
its D. of C. throughout. He was a member of the Rotorua Royal Arch Chapter and also of the Rotorua
Chapter of Rose Croix. When Lodge Tokoroa was formed he contributed lavishly to its finances by the sale
of salvaged timber and tools. When a site for the Masonic Hall was sought, W. Bro. Kruse, at that time just
commencing the subdivision of his farm for town sections, let the Lodge have two, on the corner of Bridge
and Papanui Streets, for the price of one—at £120—which site today would be worth over £1,000. When the
lodge building was being erected with voluntary labour he was always one of the most tireless workers. He
was appointed to Grand Lodge in 1960 with the rank of P.G.B.B., the highest Honoris Causa rank that can be
conferred and the one most eminently suitable for this worthy Mason whose heart was so wrapped up in his
service to his Church. This work was fittingly commemorated by a memorial service held in St. Mark's
Presbyterian Church on Sunday evening, the 28th October, conducted by the Rev. William Stuart and
assisted by V.W. Bro. H. F. McConnell, Asst. Prov. G. Master Waikato and Almoner of Lodge Piako, When
the Masonic Association was formed at Tokoroa W. Bro. Kruse was elected Chairman, a position he has held
ever since. The Masonic funeral service was ably conducted by members of the two local lodges, and was
attended by the greatest number of Brethren seen at any funeral in the district.
Our prayers and our sympathies go out to Mrs. Kruse and family and "We render praise and thanks for the
good example of our worthy Brother, who, having completed his course, now rests from his labours."
—J.C.McE.
HAWKE'S BAY
The 5th Annual Masonic Golf Tournament between Napier and Hastings for the H. J. Grieve Cup was played
on the Maraenui Links which were in first class condition, on November 4th, the first fours teeing off at 8-15
a.m. and the course was packed for the rest of the day with 97 competitors.
Competition winners were:
Foursomes—Bros. S. Butters and L. Crawford.
Runners up—Bros. M. Thomson and J. G. Esam.
Single Stableford Winner—Bro. F. White.
Runner up—Bro. H. Holmes.
The visitors were welcomed by Bro. C. R. Holland, President of the Maraenui Golf Club, a special welcome
being extended to R.W. Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. A. J. Ellingham, Bro. R. Giorgi, Mayor of Hastings and W.
Bro. C. Morgan, Master of Heretaunga Lodge, No. 73. Apologies were received from V.W. Bro. P. Tait,
Mayor of Napier and Bro. H. J. Grieve, donor of the Cup.
R.W. Bro. Ellingham in presenting the Cup to Bro. I Heath, Captain of the winning Hastings team, and other
prizes to the other competition winners, remarked he approved of this type of Masonic friendship, and felt
there were many Brethren who had not been to Lodge for a long time and through meeting active members
may come back to the fold.—J.G.E.
TARANAKI
TRIBUTE BY W. BRO. H. L. AVERY, MASTER DE BURGH ADAMS LODGE, No. 446, LC.
Brethren,
We are assembled here today to pay homage to our late brother, R.W. Bro. A. L. Hammond.
He will always be remembered by us of De Burgh Adams Lodge for his willingness at all times to undertake
any masonic duty asked of him, for his ready assistance to all members of this lodge, and indeed of the other
lodges in New Plymouth and Taranaki, for his helpful suggestions and advice to the officers and brethren of
his own lodge. His house, his time, his masonic knowledge was available to all brethren at all times.
He had held nearly every office within the lodge and was highly respected in Grand Lodge, being appointed
Provincial Grand Inspector in 1935, which office he held for four years. Other Constitutions also greatly
respected him, and in the case of Mount Egmont Lodge, honoured him with honorary membership in 1955.
R.W. Bro. Hammond was an active member of the lodge to the last. He could always be counted on to render
a charge or deputise in office at almost a moment's notice Indeed, at our meeting in August, he filled the
office of Chaplain and also presented the Working Tools of the 2nd degree.
For the last twelve months or so, R.W. Bro, Hammond has been a member of the lodge History committee
and has been of inestimable assistance to that committee with his fund of knowledge of happenings and
people of the early days of Freemasonry in Taranaki.
In 1965, De Burgh Adams Lodge celebrates its centenary. One of R.W. Bro. Hammond's dearest wishes was
that he would be here then. Unfortunately this was not to be, but we know that he will be here in spirit to
celebrate with us, his boys as he used' to call us, the events of that year. Freemasonry in general, and De
Burgh Adams Lodge in particular, mourns the passing of a gentleman and a mason.
WELLINGTON
Whetu Kairangi Lodge, No. 201
The Installation of Bro. J. D. McKerchar as the 48th
Master took place on the 13th October. The
Ceremony being conducted by V.W. Bro. D. D.
Gilchrist, Asst.Prov. G.M., assisted by Officers of
Grand Lodge.
The attendance was exceptional; the Masters of
twenty lodges accompanied by brethren and the
members of Whetu Kairangi Lodge totalled 180.
The Wardens are Bros. C. E. Coker, S.W. and R. H.
W. Deans, J.W. The proceedings in the refectory
were very pleasant and to mark the occasion W.
Bro. McKerchar's Comrades in Arms, members of
lodges, were in attendance to do honour to him.
The Ceremonial at the November Meeting, the first occasion after the installation of officers was a third
degree and the standard set was a good augury for the coming year. The Jubilee of the Lodge is two years
hence and commencing February, 1963, the Committee will begin organising and brethren look foward with
interest to the proposals that will be brought before them.
Whetu Kairangi Royal Arch Chapter, No. 60
It is pleasing to record that although the number of active members is about forty the attendance at the
regular convocations is quite satisfactory.
The Ceremonial at the November convocation was a Royal Arch Degree and was conducted by the P.Z.'s of
the Chapter under the guidance of V.E. Comp. Campbell McAllister, R.Ex. Comp. F. J. Pyne, Grand
Superintendent of the District, accompanied by V.E. Comp. H. E. McDougall, P.D.G.C. and Grand
Superintendent designate attended the convocation.
R.E. Comp. F. J. Pyne has given valued service to capitular freemasonry and the Officers and Companions
extend fraternal greetings to him and the wish that freedom from office after February next will result in a
marked improvement in his general health. May many years of happy days befall him.
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 Waimea Lodge, No. 266, was of particular interest, there being a very large
attendance of brethren and visitors to witness the Installation of Bro. Eric Louis Russell by R.W. Bro. A. E.
Shuttleworth, Prov.G.M., who was supported by many Grand Lodge Officers from all parts of the Nelson-
Marlborough District.
W. Bro. R. J. Shand-Smith, Dep. District G.M. for Westland-Nelson E.C. accompanied by several of his
Officers was a welcome visitor for the occasion.
A most noteworthy and possibly unique feature was the presentation of the Master Elect by W. Bro. H. B.
McLaren, P.G.B.B., as this was the second year in succession that he has performed that duty, and in each
case the Master Elect has been his son-in-law, an experience which must have given both W. Bro. McLaren
and his Lodge great satisfaction.
The Working Tools of the Three Degrees were presented by the Worshipful Masters of Lodge Nelson, No.
288, Lodge Wakatur No. 385, and The Motueka Lodge, No. 117, in that order, and the Worshipful Masters
of Lodge Havelock, No. 104, The Victory Lodge, No. 40, Forest Lodge, No. 116, Southern Star, No. 735
E.C„ Lodge Murchison, No. 257, and Lodge Tasman Bay, No. 413 also assisted in the Investiture of
Officers.
The Charter was presented by R.W. Bro. James Baird, P.Prov.G.M., the Address to the Master by R.W. Bro.
H. G. West, P.Prov.G.M., and the Address to the Wardens by W. Bro. R. J. Shand-Smith, D.D.G.M.
(Westland-Nelson E.C.) and the Address to the Brethren by R.W. Bro, R: A. Craighead, P.Prov.G.M.
—C.H.K.
————
Lodge Waitohi, No. 111, of Picton was exceptionally well represented at the recent Installation Meeting of
The Renown Lodge, No. 218, Wellington, to witness the Installations of Bro. Claude Edward Ayers into the
Chair, as he has many friends in "Waitohi" which is his Mother Lodge,
R.W. Bro. E. A. Greig, P.Prov.G.M., who had been visiting Australia, flew back that day from Sydney in
order to attend, and W. Bro. Reg Dawkins, W.M. of Lodge Waitohi also came to Wellington for the
occasion, leaving the control of his own Lodge, which holds its own regular meeting the same evening, to be
conducted by his I.P.M., W. Bro. A. J. Jackson.
Other members of Lodge Waitohi present for the occasion included W. Bros. A. G. Baggett, P.G.D., R. L. H.
Jones, P.G.Std.B., (Secretary of Lodge Waitohi) W. R. Booth, P.G.P., W. Bro. Jack Sutherland, P.M., P.
Silcock, P.M., and W. Bro. Robert Holmes, a P.M. of Lodge Cheviot, but whose Mother Lodge is Waitohi.
The Installation of an Initiate of Lodge Waitohi as Master of Lodge Renown will further cement the
friendship between these two Lodges who have exchanged visits biannually for some years.—C.H.K.
OTAGO
The First Principal, V.E. Comp. S. W. Cleland, presided over a good attendance at a recent Convocation of
Celtic Royal Arch Chapter, No. 42, when congratulations were extended to a Companion who had been
successful at the municipal elections. A Lodge of Mark Master Masons was formed, and the W.M.M., W.
Bro. J. T. N. Grant, and his Officers Advanced a members of Lodge St. Clair to the Degree of Mark Master.
The buffet supper was appreciated by both Companions and visitors.
SOUTHLAND
The members of Fortitude Lodge, No. 84, suffered another severe loss in the passing of Bro. Walter M.
Clare, Lodge Chaplain and Almoner. Walter Clare was an outstanding Freemason, having rendered
meritorious service over a period of forty years, for which he had been honoured with the Grand Master's
Order of Service to Masonry. His loyalty and devotion has undoubtedly been an inspiration to the brethren of
Southland and very many tributes have been paid by hundreds of Brethren throughout the Province. Almost
every lodge has sent a letter to the widow assuring her of any assistance should it be necessary. St. Matthew's
Anglican Church at Bluff was packed on the day of the funeral and many were unable to obtain admission. A
lodge of Sorrow had already been held in the lodge room which contained quite a few furnishings which had
been provided for the brother for whom so many mourned.
GERMANY - 1961
United Grand Lodges of Germany. Report on the Convention in Berlin from September 8-10, 1961.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. K. Merkel.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. R. Muller-Borner.
Grand representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. E. A. Sargent.
Grand representative at N.Z.: Bro. Dr. Max Horn, P.Prov.G.M.
378 lodges.
The retiring Grand Master spoke with pleasure of the approbation the Grand Lodge had earned in Great
Britain, the United States and in the Scandinavian countries, which had recently extended recognition. A
cheque for 50,000 D.M. had been presented to M.W. Bro. Seligman, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
the State of Israel, for the homes of old Masons near Jerusalem, to mark his visit to Germany.
The De Molay movement has been started in Germany. In spite of the Berlin crisis 221 Worshipful Masters
or their proxies entitled to vote attended the Convention. Proceedings are summarised in this paragraph:
"To be sure, even as we look back at the road we have come since that Berlin Convention in 1958, to arrive
at this Convention. of 1961, there was some rough going. There were steep pulls and drops, obstacles aplenty
and far roundabout ways. Not all the Brethren's dreams have come true yet, and the more enthusiastic
travellers had some disappointments. Nevertheless, those who have studied the two centuries of effort in
getting together the bulk of German Freemasonry will be thankful to behold how fast the former ten German
Grand Lodges have grown together to represent a single Obedience."
————
GEORGIA - 1961
Proceedings of the 175th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free and Accepted
Masons, Macon, October 24 and 25th, 1961.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. A., Dunaway.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. C. H. Cohen.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. D. W. Locklin.
Grand representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. C. H. Cohen.
Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. S. F. Chalmers, Prov.G.M.
480 lodges, 100,304 members, net gain 69.
The Educational and Historical Commission has edited, printed and distributed 5,000 copies of the Lodge
System of Masonic Education, and have made a start on distributing a second printing of 10,000. "It is our
sincere wish that every lodge in the state will use this system of candidate education, and in connection with
its use extend the time between the degrees for one full month in order that a brother might have an
opportunity to learn and really understand the ritual as he goes along in the study of the catechism and then
understands the principles and history of our order."
The Grand Lodge sent a contribution of $1,000.00 in answer to the appeal of the Grand Lodge of Florida on
behalf of Cuban Freemasons.
The Grand Master spoke at the unveiling of a marker at the grave of Roger Hugh Lacy, first Provincial
Grand Master of Masons in Georgia, on June 24, 1961. It was Lacy who induced Duche' the potter to move
from Augusta to Savannah, where there would be a bigger market for his wares. These were made from
Koalin, (so named by the Chinese), and from this clay Duche' produced the first porcelain (or China) made in
America. The state of Georgia now produces about 30 million dollars worth of kaolin a year.
An admirable account of New Zealand proceedings is included in the Fraternal Review.
—————
CANADA (Ontario)
Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario. Proceedings 106th Annual Communication,
Toronto, July 19, 1961.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. C. M. Pitts.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. R. W. Treleaven.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. E. G. Dixon.
Grand representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. D. J. Gunn.
Grand representative at N.Z.: M.W. Bro. W. J. Girling, P.G.M.
617 lodges, 136,413 members, net gain 147.
At an Especial Communication the corner stone of the recently completed Grand Lodge building at Hamilton
was unveiled, and the building was dedicated. The full form of ceremony used is set out in the report.
Seven lodges, having completed a century of existence, have been granted authority for their members to
wear gold braid. There were three new consecrations. Six new lodge rooms were dedicated.
During the year the Grand Master attended the 50th anniversary celebration of Canada Lodge, No. 3527,
London, with subsequent visits to Ireland and Scotland.
Our Library functions as an information centre for the Craft at large. Daily, we have enquiries by telephone,
letter, or personal visit from members of the Craft who may be visiting our city, and to all of these we are
able to give definite help. And it should also be mentioned that quite frequently our office receives a call
from someone, not yet a member of the Order, who wishes to have some suggestion as to what he has to do
to apply for membership." Loans to Toronto Lodge totalled 674, to others in Toronto 238.
A fairly full Fraternal Review includes no reference to New Zealand. .
—————
TEXAS — 1960
Proceedings of the 125th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. &
A.M., Waco, December 7 and 8, 1960.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. T. Bean.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. W. G. Proctor.
Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. H. C. Byrd.
Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. J. P. Crowder.
Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. G. H. Ruston, P.G.W.
961 lodges, 244,078 members, net gain 1,402.
The presiding Grand Master had for eleven years been a student of the Masonic Home and School, and stated
that the advantages of membership of the Craft had never been suggested to him.
The Library circulated 2,512 books from its total stock of . 24,991. A very substantial number of donations
was made to the Museum.
Six new lodges were constituted, including Texas Lodge of Research, and dispensations were granted for the
formation of two others. Five lodge buildings were dedicated, as well as a new chapel building at the
Masonic Home and School; it was fitting that the dedicating officer on this occasion should have been M.W.
Bro. Bean, an alumnus.
The Grand Lodge decided, without reflecting on the body concerned, that it had no power to recognise the
Philalethes Society.
There is a Fraternal Review, but it does not include New Zealand.
—————
IRELAND — 1961
Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Ireland. Annual Report, 1961.
Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Raymond F. Brooke. Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. J. O. Harte. Grand
representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. J. Rainey. Grand representative at N.Z.: M.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness,
P.G.M.
Among the Obituary Notes is one on R.W. Bro. W.
E. Hedditch, Provincial Grand Master of New
Zealand from 1934 to 1950.
The Grand Lodges of Southern Africa and India
were formally acknowledged. R.W. Bro. G. S.
Gamble, Deputy Grand Master, attended and
reported in detail on the Consecration Ceremony of
the Grand Lodge of India, conducted by the M.W.
Earl of Eglinton and Winton, Grand Master Mason
of Scotland.
Among the reports on Provincial Grand Lodges is
that of R.W. Bro. J. K. Clark of New Zealand, who
reports the deaths of R.W. Bro. W. E. Hedditch,
V.W. Bros. R. B. Mitchell and L. H. Tomlinson.
The report also describes the opening of the Roskill
Masonic Village and the conferring on Honorary
Membership of the Grand Lodge of Ireland upon
M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, P.G.M. of the Grand Lodge
of New Zealand. Membership is reported to be
stronger than at any other time during the last fifty
years.