Be Careful How You Vote
Fortunately we are not always aware of how other people regard us, or perhaps it would be better to say
unfortunately, for certain Scots have been known to pray for "the giftie" to see "oursel's as ithers see us"—
and it might sometimes be salutary.
Within Freemasonry, and towards the aspirants for the mysteries of Freemasonry, it is usual to temper Justice
with Mercy.
There are certain times in any man's life when he has to "stand up and be counted"; when he cannot take
refuge in anonymity; when he has to disclose what side he is on.
Comparing the result of a secret ballot with what might have been the result of an open one, no one can ever
presume to guess at the degree of difference. It is the measure of the honesty and the courage of the
individual voter.
The secret ballot ensures that the result of a vote is as nearly as possible uninfluenced by fear or by hope of
favour. Voters may doubt the effectiveness of the precautions against publicity, and so may vote in a way
which is different from the way in which they would have voted had they felt secure, but this factor, usually,
is probably only marginal. By and large, a secret ballot elicits the truth.
The candidate who comes down into the arena and submits himself to the judgment of his fellows may feel
that he should be entitled to scrutinise each of them, to see how he votes, and to assess whether the votes cast
seem fair to him in the light of what he considers to be his deserts. On the other hand, the voter may feel that
if the candidate can carry out such a scrutiny he will be likely to revenge himself on anyone who has shown
himself to be unfriendly, or that it may be possible for him to gain some advantage from casting a more
favourable vote than on the merits he believes to be justified.
On the whole it is a merciful thing to ask that a ballot for acceptance on the merits should be taken in secret.
Many of our feelings are not fully crystallised; some of our prejudices we do not want to express, but we feel
that some rein must be given to them if harmony is to be preserved; sometimes we do not altogether know
why someone would disturb harmony, but we feel strongly and instinctively that he would. Sometimes we do
know, but the secret is not our own.
It is not only merciful to preserve secrecy and save face, it is sensible. The lodge will be best served if every
member casts his vote uninfluenced: there will be less feeling afterwards if it is not known who votes each
way.
Mercy can and should go beyond consideration of keeping the ballot secret. The ballot is not intended as an
instrument of punishment or of humiliation. The man who would be likely to be rejected on the vote should
never be allowed, or at least should never be encouraged, to submit himself to it.
If someone unacceptable is proposed for the lodge, even someone whom one likes and respects, but whom
one feels will not command the liking and respect of the lodge as a whole, one's duty is not to substitute the
black ball for the white but to go privately to the Master and tell him one's thoughts. If on consideration it
appears that some action is warranted, it is better that the proposer should be taken into one's confidence and
given the opportunity of dropping his proposition than that his candidate, who after all is in a way on trial
without right of reply, should be allowed to submit himself to an unfavourable and perhaps damaging ordeal.
The black ball is not to be used capriciously nor
lightly, and certainly not as a vehicle for personal
spite or malice. It is always a serious responsibility
to hold in one's hand the decision on what is to
happen to one of one's fellows, and in the Craft
this power is not given so that it can be used for one's personal satisfaction. It is entrusted to the members of
the individual lodges so that in the last resort they may be able to ensure that the privileges of membership of
the lodge are extended only to those who can be relied on not to impair the harmony of the lodge but to
contribute towards it. In a simple matter of unsuitability it is unthinkable that the serious disapprobation of
casting a black ball should be used.
These things being so, it is surely important that a Freemason who considers proposing a man into the Craft
should take thought very carefully on two separate scores.
The first is whether he is confident that in general terms the candidate is a good man who will ultimately
reflect credit on his choice. The second is whether he will fit easily and happily into the particular lodge into
which he is to be introduced.
Easy of address, the practised Freemason can often fit easily into all kinds of lodges; but every lodge has its
own character, and it is only to be expected that he may be happier in one than another. One does a man a
disservice if one proposes him into a lodge into which he will not fit easily, and although there are means to
correct this situation partially, it is a pity when they have to be taken.
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Royal Order of Scotland
A date which will probably be looked back on historically in the years to come as marking an important
milestone in the progress of Freemasonry in the Wellington district, was Saturday 20 July 1938.
On that day the erection and consecration of the Provincial Grand Lodge of N.Z. Central, of the Royal Order
of Scotland, was carried out in the Hautonga Masonic Hall, Stokes Valley. The ceremonial, recognised by
many as amongst the greatest of all the Masonic degrees, was conducted by the visiting officers of the Grand
Lodge of N.Z. North, under the leadership of Bro. C. A. Rowe. R.W. Prov. G.M. of that district.
An almost full officer-team made the air trip south in the morning, and on the completion of the day's
proceedings late the same afternoon, returned home again by air.
In his capacity as consecrating officer, Bro. Rowe had the assistance of Bros. H. J. White as Dep. Prov.
G.M.; J. P. Glenie, Prov. S.G.W.; G. H. Robertson, Prov. J.G.W.; Ian Wilson, as deputising Prov. G. Sec.;
Canon A. C. F. Charles, Prov. G. Chap.; H. M. McElroy, Prov. G. Mar; I. C. Hammond, deputising as 1st
Prov. G. Stew.; M.C. Officer, as 2nd Prov. G. Stew.; E. C. Green, Prov. G. Gar.; and E. J. Spier, as Prov. G.
Dir. of Music.
Following the consecration, the appointed officers for the new Grand Lodge, N.Z. Central, were installed
according to the recognised procedure. These comprised: Prov. G.M., Bro. J. H. Langdale; Dep. Prov. G.M.,
Bro. A. Burns; Prov. S. G.W., Bro. T. G. N. Carter; Prov. J. G.W., Bro. F. Mackay; Prov. G. Sec./Treas.,
Bro. D. H. Whitcher; Prov. G. Chap., Bro. I. V. Buchanan; Prov. G. SwdB., Bro. A. D. McK. Laing; Prov. G.
Ban. B., Bro. D. J. Gillies; Prov. G. Mar., Bro. R. W. L. Wood; 1st Prov. G. Stew., Bro. D. W. L. Hingston;
2nd Prov. G. Stew., Bro. A. J. Keay; 3rd Prov. G. Stew., Bro. R. McTavish; 4th Prov. G. Stew., Bro. N. B.
Miller; Prov. G. Gdr., Bro. W. N. Strachan; Dep. Prov. G. Gdr., Bro. A. J. Pain; Dir. of Music, Bro. S. J.
Cambourn.
Following a luncheon adjournment, when the opportunity was taken to deal with a number of appropriate
toasts, the first regular meeting of the new Chapter and Grand Lodge was constituted. Following this, the
visiting northerners carried out the ceremonies of advancement and promotion of the first two candidates,
Bros. Allan T. Hunter and John G. Shankie. This ceremonial, based on a ritual of great antiquity, was closely
followed by all present, serving as intended as a demonstration for the future workings in the new body.
Up to the present the Royal Order of Scotland has been represented by two Provincial Grand Lodges in New
Zealand, these being N.Z. North, located at Auckland, and N.Z. South, in Christchurch.
It is of interest that the ruling Grand Lodge of this Royal Order must always meet in Scotland, an unique
feature being that it is the only English Masonic fraternity which has one only governing body for the whole
world.—A.T.H.
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CHANGE OF ADDRESS
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 advice.
J. M. Clark, 76 Godden Cres., Auckland, E.1. J. N. Garth, 62 Mungavin Ave., Porirua.
Alan Marryatt, 225 Main Rd., Trentham. J. E. Aitken, 7 Ranfurly Tee., Wellington.
C. T. Robertson, 94 Purnell St., Wanganui. L. J. Amos, 15 Georges Drive, Napier.
W. Barclay, Ohaeawai.
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OBITUARY
V.W. BRO. FRANK LIONEL MARSHALL, P:G.C.
With V.W. Bro. Marshall's recent call to the Grand Lodge above, at the age of 82, Whetu-Kairangi Lodge,
No. 201, has lost a most active Brother whose sound judgment and cheerful disposition endeared him to all
with whom he came in contact.
Ever ready with counsel and good advice to all who sought it, he always had a kindly word of welcome to all
candidates on their initiation and Masters on their installation; indeed, it would truly be said that brotherly
love, generosity, kindness, patience and goodwill all flowed freely from his heart—not only in affairs of
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WANTED
The following volumes of A.Q.C. to complete my set: Vols. I, 3, 7, 50, 52, 53, and 54. Would take all or
any. J. P. GLENIE, P.O. Box 1569, Auckland.
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“Installing Masters Guide.” in stock at
Regalia House
lodge and the Craft, but also of his beloved Wellington, about which he certainly was civic-minded to a very
rare degree.
Born in Wellington at the old signal station on Beacon Hill in 1886, his family for many years lived in the
old pilot-station house from which he would journey on foot to Kilbirnie School, but when Worser Bay
School was opened he transferred and became one of its foundation pupils.
At the age of 13 he went to sea on a windjammer as a cabin boy, and whilst in England stayed with an aunt
and also met his grandmother, and in spite of claiming to be a "terrible sailor", he went to sea a second time!
On returning to New Zealand he was for a short time employed on a farm at Karori South, and some years
later he and a brother became drivers of Wellington's horse-drawn trams, and later still he founded a carrying
business which still operates and bears his name.
A keen student of Wellington's history (he had gathered a fine collection of pictures), V.W. Bro. Marshall
could rightly be termed an "old identity" of the Miramar-Seatoun area, for upon marriage he lived in one of
the first three houses on the Miramar flat.
Formerly a keen member of both Seatoun Bowling and Miramar Golf Clubs, he was also a devoted
worshipper at St. Aidan's Anglican Church, where he served variously as Choirester, Vestryman and
Warden, from which office he retired in 1962 after 50 years' faithful service, in recognition of which he
received the honour of Churchwarden Emeritus.
It was through his extreme generosity in making land available cheaply that the City Council was able
recently to erect a large block of flats at Miramar, which, in recognition of his kindly actions have been
named the "Marshall Court Flats".
V.W. Bro. Marshall was initiated at Worser Bay Church in 1916 and attained the rank of Master in 1928; in
1921 he was a charter member of Taia Lodge, No. 229, and in 1946 of Lodge Miramar, No. 317; in 1966 he
became WhetuKairangi's first member to receive a 50-year Service Jewel, and simultaneously became an
honorary member of the Lodge.
As longest surviving member, it gave V.W. Bro. Marshall untold pleasure to preside at Lodge's Golden
Jubilee Meeting in 1964, during the course of which he told of the early days when Worser Bay Church held
a central position in the settlement which was almost entirely clustered around the waterfront, the Church
being put to many uses, including a Lodge room. He told of how Brethren would "sit on the rocks near the
bay and 'run over' their ritual and do a little rehearsing on the beach".
His services and gifts to Lodge were many and the Secretary's and Treasurer's reading lamps and two chairs
which he donated many years ago are still in regular use today. He was also active in other branches of
Freemasonry being a P.Z. of Whetu-Kairangi Royal Arch Chapter, No. 60, and a Past Grand Sojourner of the
Grand Chapter of New Zealand.
Whilst Lodge regrets the loss of V.W. Bro. Marshall, he will be remembered with pride by the Craft and the
community as the good Mason he undoubtedly was.—C.E.C.
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LATE R.W. BRO. A. T. SMITH, P.G.W.,
LODGE THISTLE, No. 113
We regret to advise of the sudden passing to the Grand Lodge above of Rt. Wor. Bro. A. T. Smith, Past
Grand Warden, on Friday 12 July 1968.
R. Wor. Bro. Smith who was in his ninetieth year, was Initiated in Lodge Conyers, No. 1916, E.C., in 1915,
joined Thistle Lodge, No. 113 in 1916 and was Master in 1920, served the office of Treasurer for 28 years,
and president of the Ashburton United Board of Enquiry for 25 years.
In Grand Lodge he occupied the office of Grand Pursuivant in 1928, Grand Director of Ceremonies 1939,
and Grand Warden 1947.
He was a most regular attender at Installation Meetings and seldom missed attending our regular meetings
even up to the time of his death.
In Royal Arch Freemasonry our late Companion was advanced in Rose and Thistle R.A. Chapter, No. 35, on
27 July 1922; First Principal, 1929-30; Grand D.C., 1943; Chairman of Supreme Committee, 1946-47; Grand
Superintendent of Canterbury District, 1951-53; Past Grand H (H.C.), 1955; and past Pro. G.Z. (H.C.), 1967.
He received his 40 years' service jewel in 1962, and a five years' bar in 1957.
Our late Ill. Brother was a 30° member of Clifton Rose Croix Chapter, No. 324.
He had a fund of knowledge on Masonry generally, and an expert on Constitution and By-laws of the Craft,
and was ever ready to help in any way.
His guidance was always wise and readily available to all who sought it. He was affectionately known to all
the Brethren of the Canterbury District and his memory will remain as an inspiration to us all and
encouragement to work for the benefit of the Craft and mankind in general.— J.R.M.
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'63 MASTERS' ASSOCIATION
Wellington College Social Hall again reverberated to the sounds of gay laughter and hearty singing when the
'63 Masters' Association held its annual meeting there recently.
Following a cocktail half hour and business session, more than 30 Wor. Brothers sat down to a first class
dinner. Interspersed between the numerous and witty speeches was some hearty community singing led by
W. Bro. Jack Feehan and Bro. A. Ellston (who also delighted with his piano playing and accompanying).
Very popular, too, 'was W. Bro. Ashley-Faulkner's violin solo and, after asking his audience to name tunes,
further demonstrated his versatility by playing them on a tiny whistle. On a previous occasion this talented
and versatile W. Bro. also received much well merited applause for his very tuneful playing of some
ingeniously improvised instruments, for example, a "violin" comprising a cigar-box, a strip of wood and wire
"strings"; similarly, a kerosene tin with wire "strings" which sounded unmistakably like a 'cello. Much
hidden talent by association members is only now being demonstrated at social functions of the '63 Masters,
but had these talents been known at the time it is possible there would have been even brighter refectories
during the association brethren's period of Mastership.
W. Bro. Ray Haggett richly deserved the praise he received for the very fine array of printed coloured
posters which adorned the walls of the meeting room. Almost every member of the association had an
individual poster bearing his name and humorous reference to his merits (or demerits!) for election as
president for the ensuing year. Much thought and effort had obviously gone into this work; W. Bro. Haggett
also being complimented for some very clever wording.
During the evening opportunity was taken to offer congratulations to two association members on having
attained office in Grand Lodge—W. Bro. Jack
Harwood (G.D. of C.) and W. Bro. Jack Maddocks
(G.Stwd.). It was in reply to this toast that W. Bro.
Maddocks probably became Wellington's cleverest
exponent at "passing the buck"; however, W. Bro.
Harwood was equal to the occasion!
Toastmaster for the evening was W. Bro. Ron
Wakefield, who also gave a very interesting
account of his recent visit to London with the New
Zealand rifle team. He has also distinguished
himself in rifle shooting with some record shoots.
Several W. Bros. accompanied their president
during the year on official visits to Lodges at
which association members were conducting the
meeting, and in the near future more such visits (in
force) will be taking place as association members
preside at their respective Lodges on P.M.s nights.
Therefore, this year even greater "togetherness" is the aim of the incoming president (W. Bro. Jack Murphy).
Among the well attended social functions at which W. Bros. were accompanied by their wives was the
annual dinner at the Shandon Golf Clubhouse, and "get-togthers" at the homes of W. Bro. and Mrs. J.
Harwood and W. Bro. and Mrs. J. Feehan.
Such reunions and social functions are eagerly awaited, and whilst they continue members and their wives
are assured of no dull moments.
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ADDRESS BY W. BRO. R. K. MASON ON THE OCCASION OF HIS INSTALLATION AS MASTER
OF ST. ANDREW KILWINNING LODGE, No. 79, 11 JULY 1968
Brethren, at this stage of the evening it is usual for the newly installed Master to give some form of address
and as I see it I have three alternatives:
1. To moralise.
2. To state a few facts.
3. To say nothing.
I propose taking the first alternative and I propose discussing the overworked subject of morals. For a text I
have chosen that part of the ritual which says, "Who are fit and proper persons to be made Freemasons".
There are in the vicinity of 50,000 Freemasons in New Zealand all obligated to the practice of a high moral
code. Fifty thousand equal about 7 percent of the available male population, that is, about one in every 15 to
20 men—a sizable force for good.
It would seem that some such force is required—popular chatter centres around child delinquency—and
certainly the situation is worse than it used to be, but let us not forget that the delinquents are in the minority
and let us remember that Plutarch, writing some 2500 years ago quoted youth as declining morally from
generation to generation. The majority of youngsters are good and are looking for examples of people who
practise the ideals they are trying to achieve. Youth is idealistic—and just as idealistic in 1968 A.D. as it was
in Plutarch's day.
But too few adults and too few magazines credit youngsters with the desire to observe a high moral code.
Possibly by a submissive acceptance of entertainment which would not be tolerated even two generations
ago, today's adult world gives approval to looser child conduct. But can you imagine the position if 50,000
Freemasons spoke loudly in their drawing rooms, clubs, work places, to friends objecting to lavatory scenes
in TV—called British humour; swearing on the stage—called drama; pornographic books—called art;
alcohol at school football parties—called sport.
We cannot disguise from our close associates that we are Freemasons—and why should we—we are proud
of our membership, aren't we? And if 50,000 men did speak their mind on the subject of sex in the name of
art—and drinking in the name of sport—what would be the result? Would not the young people look with
respect and would they not attempt to associate themselves with us—perhaps even join us?
Does the practice of every moral and social virtue mean passively being good or actively doing good. Baden-
Powell once drew a picture of two scouts—one standing and passively being good and the other leaping and
labelled "actively doing good" and he placed the two drawings on two pages of his book so that the toe of the
leaping boy was aimed at the pants of the standing boy.
We hear a great many reasons given for the current slide in moral behaviour—the present reason is that
science is progressing so fast that no fact or tenet seems stable. But 10 years ago the reason was that
youngsters were the product of war-time families and had therefore had unsettled childhoods.
These are excuses—not reasons. My childhood (and your childhood could be similar) was post World War 1
and the depression—but that so far as I know did not affect my moral code and if anyone should be affected
by the accelerated rate of advancement in science—it should be us—not our children. I am not prepared to
accept any excuse for moral decadence nor will I accept any reason save the submissive attitude of adults.
We have a choice and perhaps it is well described by Milton when he imagines the Creator speaking to his
Son and saying of Man—
I made him just and right,
Sufficient to have stood, though free to fall.
Such I created all the ethereal Powers
And Spirits, both them who stood and them who failed;
Freely they stood who stood, and fell who fell.
Not free, what proof could they have given sincere
Of true allegiance, constant faith, or love. . .
Let the practice of every moral and social virtue cement us—the whole 50,000 of us. Let the practice of
every moral and social virtue cause us to speak aloud our views on the subject. Let the practice of every
moral and social virtue cause us to identify ourselves as Freemasons with pride and dignity. Let the practice
of every moral and social virtue cause us to be an example to our young people. Because we are men of
mature age, sound judgment and strict morals.
As I have no doubt rambled—let me summarise. At the beginning I asked "who are fit and proper persons to
be made Freemasons". At the conclusion I answered "men of mature age, sound judgment and strict morals"
and in the middle I remarked "that the emphasis should be on the word 'practise' as an active verb rather than
as a passive noun".
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The only exercise that some people get is jumping to conclusions, running down their friends, side-stepping
responsibility, and pushing their luck.
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MASONIC ETIQUETTE
No one can deny that Freemasonry, as a society of men, demands a standard of dignity or decorum above
that of the ordinary club room. Every-day associations embrace the world at large, whereas Masons as such,
are expected to comprise a narrowed and more selective circle, thereby to provide an atmosphere conducive
to improving the morals and correcting the manners of men.
This was invoked on every one of us when made Master Masons and expected to continue throughout our
whole careers. Furthermore, it should apply even more so to those attaining the office of W.M., who by
precept and example are expected to be in the full sense the leaders of their lodges.
To create and maintain this true Masonic atmosphere demands constant mental discipline. Some brethren can
take such responsibilities in their stride by already trained recognition of true character and manners. Others,
usually through not spending their earlier years in the same environment, have to acquire the extra qualities
expected of a senior ranking Freemason as apart from a club member. By the time any brother reaches the
office of warden his disclosed traits of character ought to be such that the two final years should conclusively
prove his worthiness or otherwise for promotion to Master.
Unfortunately there are still times when one may feel critical at the way ceremonies are carried out, doubtful
of how much "homework" the team had conscientiously done. How much better is it to be remembered as an
efficient master than suffer from uncomplimentary comments. These can be long lasting and reflect in varied
ways, despite Masonic foregiveness.
In the expectation that all present are conscientious wardens, the intention is to provide a few guidelines
under the heading of Masonic etiquette.
It should be recognised that etiquette is made up of a combination of rules of varying importance. In the
forefront, as Freemasons, should be courtesy and punctuality at all times. Coupled with these attributes
would be the setting of a desirable example, ceremonial sincerity, dignified meeting control, and the
encouragement of brethren, new or old, to be Masons, not just members.
It is all very well to be the hale fellow, she'll be right brother. Much more is expected of a Master, the No. 1
leader in his lodge.
The overall subject of etiquette is in fact too wide to cover in a brief address. But as a start, let me touch on
degree work.
In every degree there is one or more candidates. Every thing humanly possible should be done to ensure an
everlasting favourable impression is retained. It is his or their ceremony of a lifetime, and his future course in
Freemasonry may very well be determined there and then.
Speak to many of the better type of former or lukewarm members who have taken the degrees but been later
disillusioned and drift away. If your experience is the same as mine it will often be found that the first seeds
of disappointment came at this time, either through the way the ceremonies were carried out, or a later
feeling of absence of sincerity.
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Banners of all kinds available from
Regalia House
In the choice of those giving charges, unfortunately fully qualified volunteers are not always readily
available. But where there is any choice the quality of the renderings should be the paramount point,
particularly sincerity, be it by P.M., current officer, or occasional floor member.
While it may be the responsibility of a junior officer to see to the ceremonial requirements prior to a meeting,
the W.M. also has a personal responsibility to check that this has been properly done. What is worse in a
degree ceremony than to contend with unscheduled hold ups, whisperings, excessive hesitations, faulty
meanings, and such like?
Punctuality, as earlier mentioned is another important form of etiquette. To specify time for opening and the
receiving of visitors, especially invited ones, should set a schedule to be adhered to. There is nothing more
discourteous than be expected to hang around an often draughty vestibule, not knowing whether it will be
three or 30 minutes before one is received.
This has a special application to visits by Grand Lodge officers in their official capacities, and the necessity
to be properly acquainted with the honours due to their rank. Hence the recommended careful study of the
Book of Constitution.
The senior Grand Lodge Officers present may recall an occasion when he accompanied the speaker who had
been invited to give an address in his capacity of Grand Lecturer. The invitation had been for 8 o'clock,
"there's very little business".
Arriving at the requested time, our admission was around three-quarters of an hour late. That evening there
were two lectures by different lecturers, the second one short, tactful, and to the point. The subject—
punctuality.
The office of W.M. calls for many qualities, not the least of which is occasional restraint, coupled with the
maximum of tact and diplomacy. No one likes to find divergent groups in a lodge even though it must be
made up of men with complex outlooks outside. The etiquette—that word again—necessary to blend a
harmonious lodge in the main ranges down directly from the W.M. While he must acknowledge Masonic
rank when necessary, he must at the same time acknowledge the equal status of all in general. As in the
outside world, strength or weakness soon gravitates down from top level.
Some brethren, keenly interested in the ceremonies, consequently follow these closely. Therefore it is
etiquette to recognise and be guided by their worth-while comments.
Others unfortunately—and they unfortunately comprise a fair proportion, often seem more interested in later
proceedings. This class have always been with us, and in earlier Masonic times became known as the "knife
and fork" Masons, a term I believe explains itself.
The subject of Masonic etiquette is really a very wide one. Many other aspects I have not touched on are
covered in the old charges, the Book of Constitution, and in the Collected Rulings of the Board of General
Purposes. I am assuming every Master-to-be is already intensely studying these so as to be able to later
faithfully assure the Prov. G.M. of his competence.
NORTHLAND
LODGE FLATS HANDED TO SWITZER HOME
An idea that originated in Kaitaia and gained wide support, came to fruition with the opening of two flats for
elderly couples resident at the Claude Switzer Memorial Home, Kaitaia.
The inspiration came from a Kaitaia Mason, a member of Lodge Mangonui, and it had the backing of
Kaitaia, Kaeo and Hokianga Lodges, whose members made voluntary contributions towards the price of
approximately $8,200 for the building.
There was also a contribution of $2,000 from the Grand Lodge Benevolent Fund, a Government grant of
$3,700 and provision of the furniture by the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes at a cost of $1,000, the
Masons providing stoves and refrigerators.
The cost has now been almost completely covered, and the flats will open debt free, says the Secretary, W.
Bro. R. H. Shutt.
Masonic visitors from the south included several from Whangarei, and there was a good local representation,
in spite of threatening weather, when the chairman of the organising committee, W. Bro. G. Bonar Wright,
officially welcomed all who attended.
They included the Provincial Grand Master, Rt. W. Bro. Wallace Calder, the president of the Northland
Masonic Trust Board, V. Wor. Bro. D. A. Finlayson, and the secretary of the Trust Board, W. Bro. N.
Horobin. The New Zealand head of the Royal and Ancient Order of Buffaloes, the Grand Primo, Mr W.
Nicholson of Christchurch, flew up for the occasion.
As chairman of the Switzer Home Trust Board, the Mayor of Kaitaia, Mr L. G. Thompson accepted the gift
of the flats from V. Wor. Bro. Finlayson, the trust board being the official controllers of the building to that
point.
After Mr Thompson had expressed the thanks of the board and of the people of Kaitaia, he asked the
mayoress to declare one flat open, and the wife of the Mangonui County chairman, Mrs I. J. Berghan,
similarly acted for the other.
The official ceremony over, the guests enjoyed an excellent afternoon tea served by the Switzer Home
Ladies' Auxiliary.
The flats are open to any elderly couples, and are not restricted to people of any organisation or
denomination. They will provide accommodation for people who wish to live together on their own, but who
need some form of assistance or supervision.
The flats are completely self-contained, but they are under the overall supervision of the matron of the home
which will provide some limited domestic help.
Builders were a Kaitaia firm, Foster and Shepherd.
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AUCKLAND
LODGE ORAKEI, No. 270
A most enjoyable evening was experienced by all who attended the June meeting of Lodge Orakei, No. 270,
in Auckland. A highlight of which was the presentation of a Fifty-year Service Badge to R.W. Bro. C. K.
Wigglesworth, P.G. Warden.
The Master, W. Bro. R. N. Hicks, received the Prov. Grand Master, R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, and a large
contingent of Officers of Grand Lodge, present and past.
The work of the evening was a lecture by V.W. Bro. H. A. Marks, Grand Lecturer, who chose as his subject,
"The Volume of the Sacred Law". In his opening remarks V.W. Bro. Marks said that he had selected this
subject out of his great respect for R.W. Bro. C. K. Wigglesworth, who besides completing 50 years very
active and valuable service to Freemasonry, had contributed much longer and just as valuable and devoted
service to his Church.
The Grand Lecturer traced the history of the "People of the Book", pointing out their origin as a group of
Nomads, and that they had not been chosen as a people apart, but to be as a plumb line, to all who follow the
teachings of the Volume of the Sacred Law. That their failings were our failings and that the lessons
portrayed in that wonderful gift of God to Man, were as applicable today as when they were written so many
hundreds of years ago. He also traced the gathering together of the books that form the V.S.L. as we know it
today, and pointed out the books of the Law, the books of tribal rites and dietry law, the books of folk lore
and the books of tolerance which go to make up the whole.
The highlight of the evening was when the Master invited R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, Prov. Grand Master, to
make the presentation of a Fifty-year Service Badge to R.W. Bro. C. K. Wigglesworth, Past Grand Warden.
In making the presentation, R.W. Bro. Lincoln was his charming best. He pointed out that although R.W.
Bro. Wigglesworth had been born in Norwich, England, his advent had been felt and heard in this far-off
land. Indeed, Tarawera blew its top off to mark the occasion! The Prov. Grand Master spoke of the
wonderful service given to Freemasonry and to his beloved Church by R.W. Bro. Wigglesworth and
congratulated him on behalf of Grand Lodge for his long and active service to the Craft. He stated that our
Bro. was initiated in Lodge Avon, Christchurch, on 3 January 1918, passed 5 February 1918, and raised 6
June 1918. He had attained the rank of Senior Deacon in Avon and had then been transferred out of
Christchurch. On returning he had acted as Chaplain and also as Assistant Secretary.
On taking up permanent abode in Auckland he had joined Lodge Orakei and passed through the Chairs. He
served a term on the Board of Benevolence and in 1953 was appointed as Assistant Grand Director of
Ceremonies, in 1956 he was appointed Grand Chaplain and in 1964 Past Grand Warden.
In the midst of a busy business and Masonic life our Bro. also found time to pass through the Principal
Chairs of the Auckland Provincial R.A. Chapter, No. 9, being First Principal Z in 1951. He was elected Third
Grand Soj. in 1961 and Past Grand Treasurer in 1967 and also holds high office in the additional degrees.
After speaking feelingly on the wonderful service of R.W. Bro. Wigglesworth, the Pro. Grand Master called
upon V.W. Bro. F. Kirton to be upstanding and to take his place alongside Bro. Wigglesworth. R.W. Bro.
Lincoln expressed his regret at not being able to be present when V.W. Bro. Kirton was presented with his
Fifty-year Service Badge a few weeks earlier, owing to other Masonic duties and congratulated him on his
long and faithful service to the Order.
R.W. Bro. Wigglesworth was in fine reminiscent form in his reply and related how he had come to join the
Craft and of the joy he had received in being of service to it. V.W. Bro. Kirton also spoke with much feeling
of the wonderful years he had spent in the Craft and of the great joy it had brought him.
The refectory proceedings were of a very high order and all present felt that it was an outstanding occasion
of great credit to the Master and to Lodge Orakei, No. 270.—H.A.M.
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Tracing Boards available on order from
Regalia House
WELLINGTON
The foregoing is an excerpt from an address given at the Wellington District annual meeting of wardens,
held in the Masonic Hall, Petone, on 30 July. Chairman of the proceedings was Bro. Maurice Topham,
Senior Warden of the host lodge, Jellicoe, No. 259.
Speakers and their subjects were: Masonic Etiquette, V.W. Bro. Allan Hunter, P.G. Lec.; handling the
business of the lodge, V.W. Bro. Keith Sowry, G. Lec.; organising support for the Grand Lodge Fund of
Benevolence, W. Bro. J. A. Kellow, former member Boards of G.P. and B.; candidates, the responsibilities
of master and wardens as viewed by Board of Enquiry, by W. Bro. Athol Oliver.
Also present was R.W. Bro. H. G. Thom, Prov. G.M., who followed with comments as to irregular practices
tending to creep into a few lodges, and also thanked the speakers, the host lodge officers, and all present for
their close attention. The J.W. of Jellicoe Lodge then invited all present to remain for a light supper.
The organising of next year's meeting was undertaken by Lodge Te Puni, No. 315.
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NEW LODGE ROOMS
Of interest to Wellington Brethren is the opening ceremony of the new Lodge Room at 17 Tinakori Road by
the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. J. A. Redwood, on Monday 30 September 1968 at 7.15 p.m.
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CANTERBURY
CANTERBURY MASONIC CHARITABLE TRUST
TRIBUTE BY VENERABLE ORDER OF ST. JOHN
An important and pleasant event took place at the Masonic Hall, Gloucester Street, Christchurch, when a
number of the principal officers of the Venerable Order of St. John met the present and past officers of the
Board of Trustees of the Canterbury Masonic Charitable Trust. At the function a Priory Vote of Thanks was
presented to the Trust in recognition of assistance given to St. John Ambulance Association. This was a very
fine and exclusive compliment to the Masonic Order.
On their arrival at the Hall, the members of the Priory robed, and after being introduced to members of the
Trust by the President, V. Wor. Bro. T. Mackenzie, assembled in the Lodge Room. The Chancellor, Mr A.
Kirkpatrick, spoke briefly on the ancient history and work of the Order of St. John, after which he thanked
the Trust for its generous assistance in connection with the St. John Ambulance Associations in the district.
The Chancellor then made the presentation of the Vote of Thanks. V. Wor. Bro. McKenzie in accepting the
gift on behalf of the Trust, thanked the Priory for its very kind gesture. He also outlined the aims and objects
of the Trust.
Those representing the Priory were Messrs Kirkpatrick, Chancellor; A. T. Gandell, Director; Sir William
Stevenson, D.C.; C. Meachen, Chief Secretary; H. Kirk, Almoner; and W. A. McAllister, Hospitaller.
Among those representing the Trust were the President, and M. Wor. Bros. A. H. C. Cavell, and J. S.
Hawker, R. Wor. Bros. A. F. Fisher, A. B. Christensen, J. W. Vivian and E. J. Butcher, V. Wor. Bros. L. C.
H. Suckling, J. C. Hancox and a number of other Brethren.—A.C.F.
The Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, the Priory in New Zealand, resolved that the
special thanks of His Excellency the Prior and the Priory Charter be hereby conveyed to the Canterbury
Masonic Charitable Trust for valuable assistance
rendered in the furtherance of the work of the Order in
connection with the Priory in New Zealand.
Dated this 24th day of June, 1968. Arthur Porritt, Prior;
A. Kirkpatrick, Chancellor.
The above is a copy of the wording on the Illuminated
Scroll.
OTAGO
ACHILLES LODGE, No. 310, TWENTY-FIFTH
INSTALLATION MEETING
Wor. Brother Jackson welcomed a large number of visitors into Achilles Lodge, No. 310, on Friday 9 August
the occasion being the Twenty-fifth Installation meeting.
Rt. W. Brother W. W. Mundy, Prov.G.M. of Otago accompanied by Grand Lodge Officers was admitted and
on this occasion the number of G.L. Officers present were many to do honour to Rt. W. Brother W. H.
Tucker, P.Prov. G.M., who was invested by Rt. W. Brother Mundy with a set of G.L. Regalia from the
Brethren of Otago District, a gift for Mrs Tucker in appreciation of her help to Rt. W. Bro. Tucker during his
three years as Prov. G.M. was accepted by our Brother. In thanking the Brethren assembled he felt sure that
Mrs Tucker and himself would always have pleasant memories and he thanked all again on behalf of Mrs
Tucker.
Bro. A. L. Goodley, son of a well respected and known P.G.S. W. Bro. T. H. L. Goodley, was installed into
the C. of K.S. and the Officers of the Lodge invested into their various offices. W. Bro. T. H. L. Goodley,
P.G.S., administered the O. of Fealty to his son, and was himself invested as Tyler.
In proposing the toast to the newly installed Master, W. Bro. T. H. L. Goodley mentioned that his son was
the fourth generation of his family to become an Installed Master in Freemasonry and in his reply the new
Master hoped that he could uphold the traditions and retain the name of Goodley in the high regard it had
been held over the years. —J.B.
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INSTALLATION MEETING, LODGE IONIC, No. 191
The Installation meeting of Lodge Ionic, No. 191, was held on Monday 8 July and Wor. Brother G. B.
Campbell, W.M. welcomed a large number of visitors. Rt. W. Brother W. W. Mundy, Prov. G.M. of Otago,
accompanied by a large band of Grand Lodge Officers, was received with the customary honours and the
ceremony of installing Brother Eric Tikey as W.M. and the investiture of his Officers was carried out with
the dignity and efficiency associated with Grand Lodge Officers in Otago.
In the Refectory, items were provided by Bro. R. Francis on his cornet and Brother L. H. Cleveland, assisted
by four artists from the Dunedin Opera Company, gave well received and thoroughly enjoyed items from
opera and the many Brethren present were sorry when the evening came to a close at 11 p.m.
On Saturday 6 July W. Brother A. A. Isaacs, W.M. of the Lodge of Otago, No. 7, welcomed W. Brother
Marshall, P.M.s, Officers and Brethren of Mokoreta Lodge, No. 63, Wyndham, when they paid an official
visit and, the work of the evening, a ceremony of raising Bro. George Gray, was carried out with dignity by
our Brethren from Southland.
The ladies' evening for wives and Brethren of the Lodge of Otago, No. 7 this year was the now popular wine
and dine and was held at "The Cherry Court Lodge" on Saturday 3 August when a party of 36 had a very
enjoyable and entertaining evening.—J.B.
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THE NEWLY INSTALLED MASTER:
HIS RESPONSIBILITIES
There can be little doubt that the Installation Meeting is the most important in the Masonic year of every
lodge.
It is the meeting which marks the end of an old and the beginning of a new administration.
It is the occasion on which the newly-elected Master takes over the gavel of authority and, together with his
elected team of officers, assumes responsibility for the affairs of the lodge.
It is appropriate that this important annual event in the history of every lodge should cause every Master-
elect to pause and take stock and to consider the future.
In view of the confusion and strife in the world today, and Freemasonry as a part of the world, each Brother
assuming the high office of Master of his Lodge is called upon to give serious and careful thought to his
duties.
In the first place, on the night of installation the new Master should realise that in elevating him to the
important and distinguished position of leadership, the Lodge is conferring on him the highest honour in its
gift.
He should, too, be deeply sensible that with that honour go serious duties and sober responsibilities.
Foremost among these is to preserve within his Lodge the sacred and unswerving loyalty of the Craft to the
Crown and Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen.
Each Master in his own Lodge is the guardian of the Ancient Landmarks of Freemasonry—a tremendous
responsibility because these Landmarks are so fundamental that if they were to be altered or changed
Freemasonry in its time immemorial form would no longer exist.
It is, of course, assumed that in his years of preparation to fit him for the high responsibilities pertaining to
the Chair, the Master-elect will have become fully informed as to the Ancient Landmarks and their nature;
and not only of these, but of the laws of Freemasonry generally.
Disregarding the fantastic lists of Landmarks enumerated by Masonic authors, it becomes the first duty of
every Worshipful Master to guard and defend with the utmost zeal and vigilance those Landmarks which are
basic and about which there can be no dispute.
Among the important duties and responsibilities of a Master is the realisation that he is the leader of his
Lodge, and as such, is responsible for its conduct and work.
With all humility he may seek and accept the counsel and advice of his Past Masters, and others in whom he
has confidence, but he cannot in justice to his Lodge shirk the responsibility of final decision.
During the time he holds office he should never forget that he is the Master elected by his brethren, and that
he is responsible to them as a Lodge, and not to any particular individual or group.
Another responsibility all the Masters should bear in mind is the loyalty and fealty they owe the Grand
Master and Grand Lodge of which they are a part.
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A PRAYER FOR THE EVENTIDE OF MY LIFE
O Father of Mercies and God of all comfort,
Our only help in time of need,
I come to Thee for help to meet the trials of advancing years. Look graciously upon me, and the more the
outward man decays, strengthen me the more continually with Thy grace in the inner man.
Give me courage and patience to bear the infirmities. privations, sorrows and loneliness of old age.
Help me to fight successfully its temptation to be exacting, selfish, unreasonable, irritable and complaining.
Preserve my mental faculties unimpaired to the end.
Keep my heart and affections warm, so that I may never fail to sympathise with joys, sorrows and interests of
others, and to be deeply grateful for the love and forbearance of those around me.
And to fit and prepare me against the hour of death, that I may be able to face it fearlessly, trusting in Thy
promise to be with me as I pass through the Dark Valley, so that departing in peace, my soul may be received
into Thy everlasting Kingdom, through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, My Lord and Saviour.
Amen.