A Disturbed Generation
ONE of the strengths of the Masonic Craft is its reliance on tradition. In the ancient Roman cliche, via trita,
via tuta—the worn way is the safe way. Each generation nevertheless wants to blaze new paths for itself, and
this is the way of progress. It is only principle that is immutable.
Mankind's recent history of a great depression, two real wars and a long cold war, real enough too except that
it is a war in which catspaws largely take the place of the greater powers in whose policies they are
enmeshed. Children have grown up to hear our doctrines, that the goodwill and the efforts of the individual
man can move mountains, and to see the results of our imperfect application of them: the world is in a mess,
and no one particularly feels responsible that our own generation has not been competent to organise it.
There is a feeling of bitterness among young people, because they feel that in international affairs—and,
often enough, in private affairs too—we do not practise what we preach.
Discipline was a great cry when the present older generation was growing up, and we were kept in tutelage
until we were very nearly adult. Today, with better nourishment, far more money and more general education
people mature earlier, and in many communities young people are so large a proportion of the total that their
elders are more than a little apprehensive.
For a time we solaced ourselves with the idea that there was not really more violence, sex crime, general
irresponsibility than there had ever been, but that the publicity given to it was fuller. It is hard to accept this
today. Police forces all over the world are finding their hands full, even although more effective police
methods have been developed.
The larger units in which man tends to live have produced new forms of criminal aberration, and have
provided an unfortunate example to smaller areas.
Children become impatient of parental control and supervision at an earlier age; they become rebellious and
leave home in anger, sometimes leaving behind them a breach which is hard to heal. Parents who according
to the lights of their own generation feel they have done their best for their children are rejected ("rejection"
is not always a one-sided thing) and spurned; sometimes permanently embittered. Youth, they believe, has
become a dangerous and frightening thing; it is no longer possible to be in sympathy with one's children;
when they come to us for help the kind of advice and help we can offer is not the kind they want to take.
To cope with this sort of situation and this sort of feeling many community movements have organised
themselves on a family basis, and at their best they can command a good deal of success with both
generations. Occasionally the effects are lasting; but the truth of the matter is that no generation worth its salt
can live altogether by the standards and principles of its forerunners; each must hammer out its own
standards, which will then be accepted out of experience instead of from precept. Sometimes in hammering
out new standards juvenile society goes through a stage of turmoil and settles down to new mores which are
quite out of line with the ideas of the parents of the particular generation, and tend to shock them.
Sometimes, it must be admitted, the transitionary process is turbulent and affronting to those who cannot
help seeing it as inherently bad.
It is not as bad as all that; it is simply the way human society develops. Practices go so far; then they are
questioned; there is a revolt; an unhappy transitionary period; a new standard is formed.
During these transitionary periods when youth, and indeed society itself is at its most vulnerable there are
never wanting those who will batten on misfortune by angling their seductive and sometimes degenerative
wares towards the affluent, uncritical and often sadly defenceless teenage market. Perhaps the best that can
be said for them is that for the wrong motives they do tend to accelerate the transitional process, and so to
bring closer the next period of stability.
In the United States the institutions of De Molay and Job's daughters parallel similar organisations in some of
the churches in an attempt to perpetuate the lessons the older generation has come to accept. Practice the
young will examine and often enough reject: sometimes the rejection effects a real improvement and a
marked development in honesty in community mores. Principle is less readily tossed aside, and herein is to
be found salvation. With all their arrogance, rebellion and flaring-up, young people have not come up with
new philosophies of right and wrong, with new codes of conduct—although in some areas they are
questioning the established codes of conduct, and questioning, moreover, how adequate they are in actual
terms of right and wrong. In so far as society has been insincere—and society has been insincere; in so far as
we have accepted humbug —and we have accepted humbug—we have brought this re-examination on
ourselves. In too many areas we have accepted uncritically standards that have not served us well; in too
many we have paid lip-service to good standards but taken matters no further.
It may be said of a generation that rejects the standards of its parents and embarks on the unhappy, awkward
process of re-examination that it is intractable, unfair, cruel and undutiful. All this may be true. It must also
be said that it is honest. In its own way it seeks the Truth.
If we were to put a ban on unorthodoxy we would hamper our search for the Light and the Truth, Not all-we
have learned to accept has the value it had for those who first, in different circumstances, accepted it. What
they accepted with high enthusiasm we may have taken on trust, dutifully but not very willingly: our children
take the matter a stage further and want to know why. It is not a kind of revolution, nor a tactful one, but
society has a way of groping awkwardly and painfully towards improvement, towards the Truth. In this pro-
cess much good human material is wasted, many hearts are broken. But if society ends up again with
standards which it can fully accept it will all have been worth while.
Freemasonry, in this modern world, has the strength that it has never concerned itself with doctrinal in-
essentials either religious or political. Its principles and tenets may very well include among them- some that
are under fire and examination at this moment. We believe that they are, nevertheless, confined to those
principles and tenets upon which all good men can properly agree; they are the essential basis which does not
change; they will survive any amount of examination, any amount of transition.
Nevertheless, although its ceremonies are not conducted in an atmosphere as modern as that of the modern
home, and do not identify themselves with the parental generation; our philosophy does not commend itself
to the present younger generation that Freemasonry is gaining members all over the world.
This is perhaps as well, for he who, in an age of question, is prepared to accept uncritically, is not likely to be
the best member of our Craft any more than he is likely to be the best member of society. Wise men tell us
that the child who goes through adolescence without turbulence is likely to be the vulnerable adult; never
completely grown up. We want for the Craft not simply just and upright men of strict morals: we insist on
maturity and sound judgment. Society may seem to be sweeping away from our philosophy: it is not, it is
only re-examining it. The Freemason who has convictions about his Craft and faith in society at large will
believe that from this re-examination society will in time acquire better and stronger citizens; and from those
citizens the Craft will be able to recruit better and stronger Freemasons. If one finds out, one knows; if one
simply accepts, one merely believes.
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.
Bro. D. S. Black, late of Park Rd., Auckland.
R. M. Hale, P.O. Box 195, Tokoroa.
Francis Hamilton, Contractor, Okaihau.
D. H. Holyoake, Anton, R.D.2, Patea.
B. L. Mander, 1 Atkinson St., Kawerau.
R. McGregor, 195 Hurstmere Rd., Takapuna.
V. H. Morris, Arbuckle Rd., Hastings.
J. T. Parkinson, Thornton Rd., R.D., Cambridge.
H. Puch, Flat 3, 9 Havelock St., Birkenhead.
A. T. A. Taylor, 120 Linton St., Palmerston North.
W. H. C. Warhurst, P.O. Box 38, Milford Sound, Te Anau.
ENQUIRY NOTICE
WANTED to complete my set. Copies of the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand for the
following years— 1891-1895, 1900, 1904, 1905, 1911, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1917, 1922. Will anyone who
could spare these, or any of them, kindly communicate with W. H. V. Taine, 6 Laurie Avenue, Parnell,
Auckland.
AUCKLAND
MASONIC GOLF TOURNAMENT
A record entry of 272 players from 56 lodges turned out for the seventh Annual Golf Tournament held in
Auckland on 2nd. May, 1966 with brethren from all constitutions competing.
The tournament was a four ball, bestball stableford, 18 hole and was held in dry but cloudy weather. The
contest was held simultaneously at the Maungakiekie, Akarana and Titirangi Golf Clubs, and the winners
were found by the best scores irrespective of course.
The contest was won by Bro. George Cross and Ray Goldfinch (Lodge Otahuhu No. 387) with 45 points,
second place went to Bros. Owen Duffin and Geoff. Stevens (Lodge Maungakiekie No, 373) with 44 points,
on a count back from Bros. Keith McMillen and Norm. Coop (Lodge Wairoa No. 55).
A very enjoyable social hour was held after the contest at the new well-appointed Maungakiekie Clubhouse,
where the presentation of the prizes was made by R.W. Bro. A. Edwards. (Irish constitution)
The proceeds of the tournament of £275 was handed to the Chairman of the Northern Masonic Trust Board
(RT. W. Bro. J. A. Redwood) to go -towards the fund for Edgar Faber Memorial Chapel.
From the nine Bowling Tournaments and Seven Golf Tournaments held in Auckland in Recent years the sum
of £5,130 has been handed over to Masonic Charities.
WELLINGTON
The Monthly Meeting of Wellington Lodge 1521 E.C. was held on Wednesday May 18, and was notable, for
it enabled the Brethren to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Wor. Bro. Sir John Ilott's entry into the Craft.
In the Lodge, the W.M., Wor. Bro. Wybrants Olphert, referred to the fact that on May 17, 1916, Sir John
Ilott was received into Masonry by Wor. Bro. S. P. Andrew (father of Wor. Bro. Earle Andrew). Sir John is
now the Senior Member and the Senior P.M. of 1521 E.C.
The W.M. said that Sir John had a great record of attendance. Unless he was ill or away overseas, he missed
only one meeting during these 50 years. In addition he was the Author of "The History of the First 50 Years
of 1521 E.C." and later of "The History of the first 75 Years of Wellington Lodge."
In the Refectory the W.M. proposed the Toast of Sir John Ilott and referred to his great contributions to the
community, the high esteem in which he was held by everyone, and his outstanding record in the Craft. He
said that Sir John had received many honours — he had been appointed P.G.D. by the Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge of England. Sir John, moreover, had occupied several offices in the District Grand Lodge of
Wellington, including the important one of Deputy District Grand Master. He is President of the Board of
General Purposes and has been so for a number of years. The Brethren received the Toast with acclamation
and musical honours.
In responding, Sir John said it was quite true that he had missed only one Meeting of the Lodge unless he
was ill or overseas — this was the night that he presented his Illuminated Manuscripts to the Turnbull
Library. They were received by the Governor - General, Lord Cobham, on the only night available.
He also held the distinction of being presented with his P.M. Jewel at the end of his 12 months in the Chair.
P.M.'s Jewels were only presented in Wellington Lodge after some 10 years of continued service by the P.M.
in question, and this was a distinction that he valued greatly.
Sir John emphasised the importance of fulfilling the obligation of attendance. He had sat under 49 Masters
and was very proud of the high standard of work and service which each had given to the Lodge. He had
been proposed and seconded by two great Masons — P.M.'s Phineas Levi and Courtenay. He recounted
some of the earlier incidents and said that Wellington Lodge had always been associated with Masonic
Scholars, — for instance the late P.M.s P. Levi, George Olphert, and Professor B. C. Murphy, while P.M. A.
E. Currie was distinguished in every field of Research in Masonry.
He urged Masons to continue to work for Masonic education. One of the best means for doing so was to join
Research Lodge of Wellington. He himself had served as Master of Lodge Research and he hoped that our
younger Brethren would continue the association.
In earlier years alternate Masters of the English Constitution and New Zealand Constitution were in the
Chair of Research Lodge — this Lodge had come into being very largely as a result of the efforts of several
W.M.s of 1521 E.C.
NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH
The Installation meeting of Lodge Havelock No. 104 was held recently, when Bro. William Gordon
Buckman was installed Master of the Lodge by R.W. Bro. J. D. Baird, Prov.G.M. assisted by several of the
28 Grand Lodge officers who were in attendance. Having delivered the- Charter charge, W. Bro. Naylor
P.G.B.B. congratulated W. Bro. Buckman on his Installation, and also on the additional honour and dignity
he enjoyed as the third generation of his family to be installed Master of the Lodge.
Refectory proceedings were of the usual friendly get together, and of high standard. Feeling reference was
made to the passing of W. Bro. H. C. Stratford, P.G.S., who was initiated in 1929, and over the years had
been a tower of strength and wisdom in the Lodge. He is very much missed by the older brethren. Much
credit is due to the wives of members who so tastefully laid out, and decorated the supper tables. — N.W.N.
On Saturday, April 23, 1966 the Waitohi Lodge No. 111 Picton held their Installation Meeting, when Bro.
Thos O'Callaghan was installed as Master by Rt. W. Bro. J. D. Baird, Prov. G. Master and his Grand Lodge
officers. The ceremony was carried out by the Prov. G.M. with his usual perfection. The Lodge Room was
taxed to its capacity. Afterwards in the Refrectory the usual toasts were duly honoured. The Prov. G.
Master's toast was in the capable hands of W. Bro. A. H. J. Jackson, who, after complimenting the P.G.M.
said that Marlborough and Nelson had the honour of having father and son Prov. G. Masters. Rt. W. J. D.
Baird's father was Prey. G.M. in 1943-44. The newly installed Master's toast was proposed by W. Bro. G. R.
Simpson. The newly installed master suitably replied. The Visitors were proposed by W. Bro. Dawkins, and
replied to by W. Bro. J. S. Johnstone, Master of Tasman Bay No. 413 and W. Bro. J. A. Callahan, Master of
Lodge Eckford No. 334. Also several visitors who had travelled long distances to see their friend installed as
Master. A very pleasant evening was spent by all.
Tracing Boards available on order from
Regalia House
On Thursday May 12, Victory Lodge No. 40 held their Pat Masters' night. W. Bro. Holz received the Past
Masters and after welcoming them asked W. Bro. A. G. Baggett to take the chair. Bro. John Nalder was rais-
ed to the third degree, and the work was ably carried out by the Past Masters. Several visiting Masters were
received on their official visits, and the seating was taxed to capacity. Afterwards in the Refectory W. Bro.
Holz proposed the toast to the Past Masters, congratulating them on a perfect working. W. Bro. Baggett
suitably replied. A very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory. Several visiting Masters on their official
visits were duly honoured and that was another successful Past Masters meeting over. It was the first Past
Masters night held in the new Temple and was Victory's 84th birthday.
It cannot be denied that W. Bro. A. G. Baggett, P.G.D., is a very capable Past Master, but it should be known
that Bert has attained the grand "old" age of 84 years, was initiated in Victory Lodge 48 years ago, and in
addition to "merit and ability," was invited to occupy the chair of K.S. because Victory Lodge was
celebrating its 84th birthday.—Editor.
On Saturday May 28, Bro. B. T. Redditt was installed as Master of Victory Lodge No. 40 in the Masonic
Temple in Nelson by Rt. W. Bro. James Baird Prov. G.M. The ceremony was carried out as usual with a high
standard of efficiency. There were 23 Grand Lodge officers present including five Past Prov. G.M.s. The
new Master's address from the chair was a masterpiece. A highlight was the presentation of a 50 years Jewel
to W. Bro. I. Baty a P. Master of Hataitai. Lodge 285, by Rt. W. Bro. J. Baird, Prov. G.M., who gave a
resume of W. Bro. Baty's long and active career in Freemasonry. W. Bro. Baty was the founder of the
Wellington Almoners Association. W. Bro. Baty thanked the Prov. G.M. and said he had enjoyed every
minute of his service to Freemasonry. The Prov. G.M. invited W. Bro. Baty to retire with him. The refectory
was taxed to capacity while the usual toasts were duly honoured. The toast of Prov. G. Master and G.L.
officers was proposed by W. Bro. W. S. Moorhouse.
CANTERBURY
UNITED FORCES LODGE
ANZAC MEETING AT CHRISTCHURCH
Although the Anzac meeting of the United Forces Lodge was conducted in much the same way as
previously, it was this year an outstanding event. Moreover the meeting has become a Provincial occasion. It
was of course graced by the presence of the Grand Master M.W. Bro. J. S. Hawker who mentioned that he
had attended every one of those meetings since their inception, with the exception of one.
There was much to reflect on and appreciate—the military precision of the ritual, the fine music, the ribbons
and medals worn by some of the brethren, the attractive uniforms, and the rapt attention of the brethren of
whom there were at least 230 present. All these things and others added lustre to the occasion.
As we listened to M.W. Bro. A. H. Cavell read with his usual clarity a passage from Ecclesiasticus we could
think of his service at Gallipoli over fifty years ago, and later as a Regimental Commander -in the Second
World War. Seated next to him was Rt. W. Bro. A. F. Fisher, whose own brother was also present. W. Bro.
H. Fisher sat with Past Masters and probably few would realise that he is a Foundation Member of the
Lodge.
Another foundation Foundation member, Rt. W. Bro. O. F. Baker performed a poignant duty during the
evening when he paid a sincere tribute to the memory of V.W. Bro. R. C. Hamilton whose lamented death
had only recently occurred.
M.W. Bro. J. S. Hawker G.M. recited the Anzac Dedication which closes with the words "Let us therefore
once more dedicate ourselves to the Service of the ideals for which they died. We keep sacred this day. Lest
we forget."
As the ceremony moved along with it odes and readings and a prayer; and the act of commemoration given
by the Master, W. Bro. T. Stanton, it came to the culmination with the representatives of the Army, Navy,
Air Force and Merchant Navy taking guard at the corners of the Pavement, while the Senior Warden Bro. A.
D. McGill with his escort bore forward the wreath; followed by the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille
played by W. Bro. V. Aldridge.
The traditional singing by W .Bro. G. T. Ritchie P.Prov. G.D.C. of "Requiem" by Robert Louis Stevenson,
was listened to with strict attention. The quiet voice combining with the very careful and skilful
accompaniment of W. Bro. H. Hodson added wonderfully to the occasion.
"Installing Masters Guide" in stock at
Regalia House
ADDRESS BY W. BRO. Y. H. McKEAGUE
The special address for the evening was delivered by W. Bro. McKeague, Pres. Prov. Board of Benevolence,
and attracted much favourable notice.
Wor. Bro. McKeague spoke with feeling of the wonderful service of the Australian and New Zealand Army
Corps together with their allies at Gallipoli, and in other theatres of war.
He said that the spirit of Freemasonry can identify itself with the spirit of ANZAC. Peace has its victories no
less renowned than war. We are not called upon to face privations nowadays but there are still victories to be
won in what passes for Peace in this troubled world, the teachings and examples of free masonry can go a
long way towards making life easier for many of those forced to suffer its tribulations through no fault of
their own.
There is now a greater awareness of the need for members of our Craft to put their principles of brotherly
love to the tests of practice.
Several Lodges have in recent weeks taken groups of brethren to the homes of widows to put in a day's work
—painting and gardening. The feelings of comradeship thus engendered are more than reward for such un-
selfishness — to say nothing of the appreciation of the widow, and publicity for our principles. Let us extend
those services to try to show the world that we are the ones to whom troubled hearts may turn for
consolation.
If we live up to the -teachings of our Craft in Brotherly love, then it will be seen that helping others brings
spiritual contentment, and a satisfaction of the soul that can not otherwise be obtained, and we will have
perpetuated the spirit of Anzac.
This is the spirit which prompted the deeds of Gallipoli and Crete, when self was subordinated to the welfare
of others, and men risked their lives to bring succour to comrades who were sick or suffering.—A. F.
The April Convocation of the Shirley Royal Arch Chapter 86, was one of outstanding interest to Royal Arch
Free Masonry in Christchurch. This was a Past Principals night and V.Ex. Comp. J. D. Doak was First
Principal for the Royal Arch Degree.
Most Ex. Comp. A. B. Christensen, P.G.Z., occupied the office of 1st Soj.
This meeting was outstanding in the fact that several members of Supreme Grand Chapter were in attendance
and three of these Rt. Ex. Companions gave charges. Rt. Ex. F. H. Wright, P.G.J., Rt. Ex. Comp. G.T.
Grover, P.G. Treas., Rt. Ex. Comp. A. Hunter, P.G. Treas. Rt. Ex. Comp. Hunter is 93 years of age.
Rt. Ex. Comp. J. S. Hawker P. G. Supt., was D.C. for the evening. In attendance was Rt. Ex. Comp, L. D. J.
Smith, Grand Supt. of Canterbury, Rt. Ex. Comp. A. J. Hendry, P.G. Supt. and Rt. Ex. Comp. A. R. Hamill,
P. G. J. In resuming his office as First Principal, V. Ex. Comp. G. G. Mitchell, expressed appreciation for the
excellent working of the Royal Arch Degree by the Past Principals. He then asked Rt. Ex. Comp. F. H.
Wright to present Most Ex. Comp. A. B. Christensen with his third 5 year service bar. In making the presen-
tation, Rt. Ex. Comp. Wright said that it gave him great personal pleasure to have the privilege and honour of
making the presentation on behalf of all Companions and to express gratitude for the long and unselfish
devotion to Capitular Freemasonry by Most Ex. Comp. Christensen.
Most Ex. Comp. Christensen replying, thanked Rt. Ex. Comp. Wright for the sentiments expressed in making
the presentation and said that his main satisfaction was that he was able to act as First Sojourner, a position
he first occupied 53 years ago.
At the conclusion a very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory during which Most Ex. Comp. Christensen
suitably replied to the toast of Past Principals.
CASHMERE LODGE
Visitors to Cashmere Lodge No. 271 have been most impressed with the improvements resulting from the
renovations recently carried out particularly in the Refectory.
The whole of the walls have been repaired and painted in pleasing approved shades, the lighting system
modernised and a handsome proscenium has been erected.
Modernisation in the kitchen and the installing of improved toilet facilities, together with ample room for
parking and the situation above the fog line, in all make this one of the finest lodge facilities in the city or
suburbs.
Many congratulations have been paid to the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. H. N. Archer and his officers on the
ultimate success of the operations.
Cashmere Brethren would like it known that they would be happy to see a wider use made of their buildings
by other Masonic Lodges, Chapters or Groups.
The bimonthly meeting of Prince of Wales Royal Arch Chapter was held on April 20th, 'when the First
Principal, V.E. Comp F. R. C. Rogers exalted two candidates to the Royal Arch Degree assisted by Most. Ex.
Comp. R. Hepburn, Right Ex. Comp A. R. Chambers and the officers of the Chapter.
The quarterly meeting of the Royal Canterbury Preceptory of Knights Templar No. 246 was held on April
28th when the Knight of Malta Degree was worked by the Preceptor, Eminent Knight L. Rhodes assisted by
Emt. Kts. R. Hepburn, A. A. Perry, F. J. C. Dann, George Burns, S. W. M. Smith, A. J. Hendry and A. J. C.
Webber together with officers of the Preceptory.
The Royal Order of Scotland, Provincial Grand Lodge of New Zealand held its annual meeting on May 7th
at the Masonic Hall, Fendalton, when the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. F. R. Purdom conferred the
Degree of H.R.D.M. on two Candidates. The R.S.Y.C.R.S. Degree was worked by R.W. Bro. R. Hepburn,
Past Prov. G.M. The Prov. G. M. then appointed and invested his officers for the ensuing year.
R. E. Comp L. D. J. Smith of Rangiora has been elected as Grand Superintendent of the Canterbury District
under the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand. R.E. Comp. H. N. Pyne has been elected as
Chairman of Supreme Committee, R.E. Comp. J. F. Tempers) as Grand Treasurer, V.E. Comp. A. J. T.
Clements as Grand Scribe, N., V.E. Comp-. R. G. Davidson as Grand Superintendent of Works and V.E.
Comp. W. G. Cooper as Grand Standard Bearer.
The Appeal Of Freemasonry
By J. E. Campbell
Every lover of the Craft at one time or another must have asked himself why Freemasonry appeals to him.
Many of us are continually asking ourselves this question, and formulating answers which we know well do
not touch more than the fringe of the matter. There is always an element that eludes us: something intangible,
indefinite that we cannot locate or define. Yet that something is completely real and perfectly definite.
The average candidate for Masonry may possess a vague general idea that Freemasonry is wholly worthy of
respect, that it is an honourable institution with a high standard of life, yet he can know little else. Certainly
he can know nothing of its ceremonies Nevertheless the profound ignorance of the teachings and of the
methods of Freemasonry does not prevent men from joining the Fraternity.
In all other matters, it is usual to investigate before one takes a definite step. It is ordinary prudence to find
out all one can about an institution before joining it. Of Freemasonry we know little or nothing beforehand.
Yet men join with full confidence, that they are making a good move. In Freemasonry, it is truly and usually
a "favourable opinion preconceived of the Order" which induces men to join.
What about the appeal of the initiate? In the world of today, the element of ritual, simple, dignified beautiful,
has almost disappeared. There has been a tendency to eliminate ceremony from our lives. Nevertheless, there
is scarely a man who does not harbour a secret love of ritual, Then, again, in the world today there is so
much turmoil, self assertion and personal advertisement that it is exceedingly pleasant to enter the totally
different atmosphere of a Lodge where all is quiet and orderly, where every officer has his allotted space and
his prescribed duty; where none encroaches on another, where all cooperate in harmony.
Another element of profound beauty, which appeals to every man who has within him the spark of music or
poetry, is the exquisite rhythm and euphony of our ancient ritual; the words and phrases of which can be
rivalled perhaps by nothing in English literature save the Bible or Shakespeare's works. The broad, homely
philosophy of life, the simple declaration of brotherhood, the ethic of fidelity and friendship, truth without
dogma, religion without sect, reverence without sacrifice of dignity, love without sentimentality; all these are
important elements contributing each its quota to the appeal of the Masonry in the heart of the Mason.
Thus is the appeal of Freemasonry—complex and multifold, and at the same time simple and one. It is virtue
and science, ethic and philosophy, religion and fellowship, yet none of these things is the whole of it. That is
why the appeal of Freemasonry is what it is, and why we are lovers of the Craft, for man is also a being who
can be endlessly described but never explained.
Rose Croix Eagles and Stars in stock at
Regalia House
The Harmony of Freemasonry
Harmony is the outstanding quality which unifies and continues to hold together our Fraternity and indeed
any other Fraternity. The word "Harmony" comes from a Greek root meaning "a fitting and a joining
together," and so the word has come to mean not only a combination, "a joining together" of musical sounds,
but accord, agreement and friendship.
Harmony expresses the relationship which is to exist between the members of the fraternity each with the
other, and each with mankind.
Every Freemason knows that the Holy Merit is opened on the Master's pedestal at Psalm 133. "Behold how
good and how pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." The very base of Masonic
philosophy and purpose is sounded in these words. This sense of harmony which pervades our meetings is
due to the emphasis which Masonry places upon Truth, Charity and Benevolence. It assumes no economic
relationships, it does not exist for business purposes; and it was never intended to function as a club. It is
simply a fraternity of men "who prize honour and virtue" as paramount excellences and worthy of world-
wide cultivation.
Whilst so many voices sing in praise of Masonic Harmony, nevertheless it is well-known that discord and
dissension do creep into our Lodges. Probably the cause of this is the fact that some Masons cannot stand the
sounding of a new note. The harmony for which they stand is rather a false harmony, a harmony of one sus-
tained chord. Such harmony is like that of the Aeolian Harp which sings a beautiful chord but which never
changes. Or is it as though each instrument of an orchestra had one, and only one, note to play and played it
endlessly? The result would be a grand volume of harmonious sound, but it would be dreadfully
monotonous. The result further would be one sustained chord, but no adaptation, no variation, no soul-
stirring music.
There is another and more beautiful kind of harmony which is far more expressive of what true Masonic
harmony should be. It is the harmony of the orchestra, combining different tones, blending varied vibrations
of sound. Here and there from instrument to instrument, passes the fleeting, swaying melody. Behind it,
around it, is the accompaniment of ever-changing chords. Into the singing of the violin, the flute drops a
plaintive note. Then underneath their whispered murmuring is heard a sob, drawn from the 'cello's heart, to
which the horns blow courage and good cheer while all this tumult of sweet melody is carried on in the firm
and confident tone of double-bass and tympana. That is true harmony. That is the true "concord of sweet
sounds." It is really the harmony of modulation and adaptation.
Such is the harmony for which Masonry strives. A harmony of constant progress of infinite variety, of in-
cessant adaptation, of recurrent modification. This is the harmony of true fraternity, which succeeds in
combining differences into one grand symphony of Brotherhood.
This harmony, like the harmony which should typify a Freemasons' Lodge, either the ordinary Lodge, or
Grand Lodge, recognises individuality and gives full play for its expressions, but always encourages and at
the same time requires modulation to fit new environment, new conditions, new associations. Such harmony
welcomes criticism, it is not afraid of new ideas, because it can and does trust its cohesive strength. It is even
hospitable to the strange and even the unique, because it has faith in its own powers of adaptability, in its
own instinct for this true harmony.
The discords which sometimes disturb the harmony of the Craft are but the reflections of antagonisms which
upset our national and international relationships. The root can always be found in petty jealousies, petty pas-
sions, petty selfishnesses which always hinder progress and unity, and destroy harmony. Solidarity and
harmony are hindered in their upbuilding because men are swayed by lesser loyalties, loyalties which
inevitably lead to conflicts.
Loyalty to the Craft in general, and one's own Lodge in particular is a necessary qualification of every Free-
mason. Loyalty, like mercy, is twice blessed—"It blesses him that gives and him that receives."
It not only sweetens life for the object of it, but it strengthens life for the one who bestows it. If everyone in
our jurisdiction was loyal, a veto would be placed on suspicion, and on doubt and on all anti-social
tendencies, "Heaven would be brought to earth."
Probably the cause of discord in a Lodge or indeed anywhere is man's self-will and his consequent failure to
see matters from any point of view other than his own. Then, of course, there are those people who will not
fit in because they are unsociable. Such men should never have been admitted into Freemasonry. Every
Freemason worthy of the name should be able to differ from his "brother" and still bear no ill-will. We
should as Freemasons teach ourselves to be more merrily companionable and jovially sociable. We should be
able, without loss of harmony and goodwill, to change our fixed psychology, to thaw any congealed
suspicion, to get rid of all distrust. We should then all know the meaning of true harmony, we should all be
making life more livable and lovable for everyone.
We as Freemasons have reasons to be proud of our Craft, for no other human order or institution has ever
brought together men of such wide diversities of type, temper, training, interest and achievement, and
succeeded in uniting them in service for the Brotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God.
Harmony between Brethren has done this, and so Masonry may be looked upon as a League to enforce
Peace. As the Ancient Charge puts it: "Masonry is the centre of union between good men and true, and the
happy means of conciliating friendship amongst those who must otherwise have remained set at a perpetual
distance." Let us remember this and above all let us be so tolerant of one another's views that the harmony of
our Lodges be not disturbed. We have laboured long enough in the quarries hewing, shaping and smoothing
with mould and chisel. It is time now, when there are so many disruptive tendencies in the world breaking
the harmony among men, to begin to build, time now to lay one stone upon another, time to knit them one to
another, the cement of an indestructible harmony. It is time, in short, to rear tier upon tier the Temple of
Human Brotherhood, builded of men out of every nation and tongue and people, dedicated to the cause of
international peace and consecrated to harmony among men and to sincere worship and service of
T.G.A.O.T.U.—. R W. Bro. J. A. Klein, P.S.G.W., S. A. Masonic Journal of South Africa.
Letter To "The Craftsman',
The Editor,
The Craftsman."
Dear Sir and Bro.
It was with much interest I read in your February issue a report on the Hutt Valley Masonic Forum, in which
a panel of past and present officers of Prov. G.L., debated "Is Freemasonry Meeting the Challenge of
Changing Times?" and it is reported that after the affirmative and negative views had been discussed a vote
that the challenge was not being met was "soundly carried."
Viewing the result of this vote one is led to wonder where the trouble lies and how to correct it, and in this
the report indeed opens up many avenues of thought: Does the fault lie in the lodges — do brn. lack
information—has the community the wrong conception of Freemasonry? and so on.
I do not pretend to know the answers, however, it is clear that Masonry has very real competition from T.V.,
seasonal sports club and social activities, etc, and these are sometimes used as excuses for non-attendance at
lodge but are these wholly responsible? It is heard said that one-third of lodge membership represents a
"reasonably well-attended meeting;" and that degree work month after month does not really cater
sufficiently for brn. on the "sidelines"; and that with the hectic pace and great demand on ones time these
days its' "tough" on those who have to study ritual and learn charges(if some of the more lengthy charges
were well-read instead of memorised — a retrograde step, I feel— would that be the answer?) Lodgerooms
are usually well-filled on special occasions — such as "Father-and-Sons' Night," "Grandfathers' Night," and
so on — but attendance usually "falls flat" at the following meeting —Why? Do Brn. expect some sort of
follow-up to encourage their attendance and stimulate their interest if so, What? Would Newsletters
(containing, for example, a report on the last meeting and information about the next; news about sick brn;
information about G. L. Benevolent and other associations; lodge birthdays, and so on). sent to each bro.
with his monthly lodge notice, keep brn. better informed and stimulate greater interest and more regular
attendance?
With school, church, and other weekend working-bees claiming so much of brn's time, would more widows
and aged brn, receive speedier and greater assistance if work for them was undertaken commercially and
financed by way of "blanket" or other forms of lodge collections? The physical help (usually given by the
"faithful few") could then be financially shared by the lodge membership; or would greater publicity in the
lodge or via lodge notices attract more and larger working-bees?
Is slight re-wording of our ritual needed—or do candidates (and brn, generally) fully realise the importance
of "rather" preceding the Ob. penalities?
As mentioned, t don't pretend to know the answers, but they do supply much food for thought, for surely
there is a challenge to be met within our lodges as well as by the Craft as a whole.
What of those outside the. Craft—have they a true picture of Freemasonry in action? Personally, I would say
No. Too often do they refer to Masonry as a secret organisation and something of a mystery, whose members
have little thought for anyone but themselves. Of course, they cannot altogether be blamed for thinking this
way, for they only see the outside of a lodgeroom and know little or nothing of the good works for the
community which emanate from within. If publicity were given, for example, to Hutt Valley Lodges' recent
gift of a movie projector to the area's Intellectually Handicapped Children's Centre; to the organised car-
drivers and entertainment given by lodges to inmates of old peoples and other homes; to the fact that homes
such as those at Mt. Roskill, Auckland, also cater for persons other than members of the Craft and their
relatives, and so on, perhaps the community would have a more understanding and better image of
Freemasonry.
Many men obviously are interested in the Craft and would undoubtedly make very good Masons, but, being
unaware of the position, are still waiting to be solicited. On the other hand, others are often heard to remark
that brn. employers give unfair priority to brn. applicants and promotion preference to brn. employees. This
kind of thinking tends to create barriers among employees and a stigma against the Craft, therefore, in such
cases, it is little wonder that brn. are reluctant to openly admit they are Masons.
Surely a better image of Freemasonry needs to be projected and it is my opinion that if a G.L. publicity
officer were appointed he could greatly assist to clear away some of the misconceptions held by those
outside the Craft.
Likewise, it is my opinion that if brn. expressed their views in "The craftsman" a wealth of good could result.
Personally, I would like to see space in "The Craftsman" devoted for the purpose of a Readers' Forum, in
which brief letters to the editor could be' published and, if necessary, replied to by brn. qualified to do so,
and possibly from opinions expressed in this way could be found the means to assist Freemasonry meet its
challenge in these changing times—C.E.C. P. M. 201, Wellington.
THE SYMBOLISM OF LODGE DE BURGH ADAMS, NO. 446 IC CENTENNIAL JEWEL
MOUNT EGMOUNT
Symbolic of the wonderful fertile province of Taranaki. In the form of a triangle the Symbol of the Deity
which reminds us of The Great Architect 'of the Universe who rules and reigns over all things. It also
reminds us of the Lodges of the four constitutions which surround it.
THE BLUE RIBBON
Blue is a symbol of Royalty and reminds us of our allegiance to our Queen and country and that upon our
entry into this mortal life, we are descendants of the God King Himself, and possessors of that princely
heritage an immortal life implying Hope and Faith.
THE MEDALLION
Reminds us of that Great Irish Freemason Henry De Burgh Adams after whom this Lodge was named.
THE HAND
In Freemasonry, the hand as a symbol holds a high place, because it is the principal seat of the sense of
feeling so necessary to, and so highly revered by Masons. The same symbol is found in the most ancient
Religions. Horapollo says that among, the Egyptians the hand was a symbol of a builder or one fond of
building because all labour proceeds from the hand. The Left hand was a symbol of Equity and Justice.
THE TROWEL
Spreads the cement of brotherly love and affection.
THE SERPENT
The symbol of wisdom — having its tail in its mouth thus forming a circle, the symbol of Eternity.
THE CABLE TOW
Symbolises the Covenant by which all Masons are tied, thus reminding us of the passage in Hosea XII-II—I
drew them with cords of a Man, with bands of love.
THE LETTER C
In the centre stands for Centennial 100 Years 1865-1965 Thanks be to God we have worked well.
Ronald Sturmey,
Prov. G. Inspector Taranaki. N.Z.
Banners of all kinds available from
Regalia House
SOUTH CAROLINA - 1965
Proceedings of the 228th Annual Communication of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Ancient Free Masons of
South Carolina. Greenville. April 22 and 23, 1965.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. W. Frampton, Jnr.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. J. W. Frampton, Jnr.
Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. H. F. Collins
Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. F. W. Poythress
Grand representative at N.Z.: M.W. Bro. C. H. Taylor, P.G.M.
310 lodges, 60,597 members, net gain 921.
In this Grand Lodge as in a number of others the Grand Master sends a personal letter of welcome to every
newly raised Brother.
The Grand Master reported that in the January 30th issue of "The Saturday Evening Post" an article had been
published which in his opinion insinuated that there was a connection between South Carolina Freemasonry
and the Klu Klux Klan. He took exception to the statements in the article after consulting with the Master of
the lodge in the town mentioned hi the article, as to the accuracy of the statement. This resulted in an
exchange of letters between the Grand Master and the Managing Editor of the journal. The correspondence is
printed in the report of the- Grand Master's address. It appears that Mr. Robert Shelton had taken some
journalists to a lunch organised by a church which had booked the lodge dining facilities for fund raising
purposes, and had come from a Klan meeting three quarters of .a mile away. While denying that the "Post"
report would have conveyed the alleged connection, the Managing Editor was quite prepared to publish the
appropriate correction. The Committee on the Grand Master's Address expressed resentment over the
incident, and commended the Grand Master for his handling of it.
Though membership is increasing, attendances are causing some concern.
For some reason not stated, there was no expenditure against an allocation of $5,000 for the purchase of
books for Grand Lodge. Library.
New Zealand affairs are dealt with in the Fraternal Review.
VERMONT - 1965
Proceedings of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Vermont. 172nd Annual
Communication. Burlington. June 9.-10, 1965.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. W. C. Biggs
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. D. B. Smalley, Jr.
Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. A. H. Grout
Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. H. M. Watkins
Grand representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. G. Palk., Prov. G.M.
102 lodges, 17,205 members, net loss, 195.
The Grand Master reported that the Chairman and members of the Committee on Education, Promotion and
Masonic Progress had held several schools of instruction during the year: "My brothers, I have recently heard
a report of one of our sister Grand Jurisdictions that holds a school of instruction every Saturday night for ten
months of the year, with an average attendance of over 50 per cent of all the officers of the subordinate
lodges. I plead laziness as one of my sins, but my brothers, if we could generate interest and enthusiasm like
this in the work of our lodges I sincerely feel that our membership would double in the next ten years".
After an investigation it was decided to reorganise the Grand Lodge Library; an architect to submit a plan
and a professional librarian to be engaged to catalogue the collection.
No Fraternal Review.
SWITZERLAND - 1964
Grand Lodge Alpine of Switzerland 112th Annual Meeting of Delegates. 23rd May 1864 at Winterthur. Re-
port of the Grand Secretary. Lausanne, April 29, 1964.
Grand Secretary: R. W. Bro. H. Vettovaglia.
Grand representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. A. Rebisamen.
Grand representative at N.Z.:
3098 members, net loss, 12.
During 1953 the following programme was carried out by one lodge:
13 ritual meetings in the three degrees 17 conferences in the first degree
14 meetings and manifestations of various types
6 instruction meetings
6 committee meetings.
Another lodge, founded 1787, records six official visits to sister lodges and an attendance of over 75 per
cent.
Thirtyeight prominent and deserving Brethren, some of whom had been members of the Craft for over 60
years, were presented with the Medal of Honour of the Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland.
The Directorium held 20 official meetings during the year. There is a monthly journal, Alpine, which records
most of the current events of the year. The Grand Master, members of the Directorium and some naemPere
of the Committee of Grand Lodge attended 80 meetings all over Switzerland, in the course of which 11
Masters were installed.
The Committee of Grand Lodge Officers suspended relations with the Grande Loge de France.
The Annual Meeting of Masters and Deputy Masters dealt with foreign relations; approval of rules and by-
laws of several lodges etc. The 111th Annual meeting of Delegates was held at Geneva in June: approval was
given to the recognition of India and Bolivia.
IDAHO - 1965
Official Proceedings 98th Annual Communication of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted
Masons of Idaho. Boise, September 21-23, 1965.
Grand Master, presiding: M.W. Bro. J. P. Halliwell, Jr.
Grand Master, elected: M.W. Bro. A. W. Cate
Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. H. H. Eberle
Grand representative-of N.Z.: W. Bro. C. A. Trent
Grand representative at N.Z.: R. W. Bro. A. W. Robertson Prov. G.M.
84 lodges, 14,454 members, net loss 107.
At the Annual Communication the aims and organisation of Acacia Fraternity were explained. The speaker
traced the growth of Fraternities generally, and went on to the inauguration of the Acacia Fraternity for
college men in 1903-04. At present Acacia has 25,429 members in 47 Chapters throughout the United States.
Government is by a national Council elected biennially at a conclave of representatives of all the Chapters.
Any young man recommended by two Freemasons can now be a Member, but the college background is still
required. The Fraternity system is under attack in the United States at the present time, and the statement is a
useful background for anyone interested in the question.
A Senior Wardens' Manual was prepared during the year: it is called "From East to West."
The Grand Historian traced the lineal descent of Idaho Masonry in a careful and well-presented paper.
The Lodge of Research U.D. has got away to a good start, set up six committees for various purposes, and
laid what appear to be strong foundations for the work that is to be done.
Arrangements are in hand for the observance of the Centennnial of Grand Lodge in September, 1967.
No Fraternal Review.
Regalia, constitutions other than N.Z., available from
Regalia House