How Much Is Lost
There used to be a second-hand bookshop, Newbold's, conducted by one Richard White, in George Street,
Dunedin. It was a very good second-hand bookshop and it was a great pity when it went, for New Zealand
has few enough like it. In the nature of things it could not have kept going indefinitely, for one needs a
considerable turnover to make a profit from so large an area of city space. It was one of those fascinating
places that most of us remember from our boyhood, but have seen infrequently since. Apart from the general
run of the collection, comprehensive enough for anyone, there was at least one whole floor devoted to works
of religious exegesis and commentary. Scholars for many centuries have put forward their ideas and their
glosses, their interpretations and their explanations of the words of the Scriptures. In the time of the Stuarts
religious disputation was as important and as engrossing an activity for the man in the street as spectator
sports provide today.
Not all the commentary was well-informed or even sensible, and what was accepted as orthodox by one sect
was often enough condemned as heterodox—heretical—by another.
These texts were a labour of love. Often enough the study and work required to produce them occupied a
large part of a man's life—sometimes they meant more to him than anything else in the world. This may well
have been so very often in the case of clerics in enclosed orders.
Today, often enough, even the postulates on which some of these theses are premised are forgotten or
ridiculed as quaint and silly. All the devotion is gone for nothing, all the scholarship is shown as rooted is the
shifting sands, nobody wants the author's gift to mankind.
It is not, of course, only works on religion that suffer this fate, but it is true that for many generations
religious works far outnumbered the rest. It is true also that in dealing with, for example. the applied sciences
there is less room for error than when one is simply moralising upon a theme without any authority which
can be tested, though perhaps with an inspiration which can only be challenged but not disproved. From long
before the day when the astronomer had to agree that the world was flat, but privately hissed, so the story
goes, "It is round, for all that!" as he ended his recantation, ideas destined only to be rejected within a few
years of being propounded have multiplied in many fields.
There are more ways than one of measuring a man's achievement and it is hard enough to assess an
individual contribution to the welfare of mankind. The discovery of radium, of penicillin has added
enormously to the good of mankind, and we honour those responsible.
It is still not inept to remember that some there be, of whom, often enough. we have no memorial, whose
contribution is nothing so straightforward as a discovery or an invention which adds something obvious and
identifiable to the sum of man's knowledge. It may be a contribution to disciplined methods of thought; it
may be the provision of an environment in which others more capable have worked: it may be the first step
or two of an investigation which leads nowhere but towards the rejection of something that is false a
reduction and absurdum.
This holds good in all fields of knowledge, even in the exact sciences. It holds good in the sphere of Masonic
writing, for long the happy hunting ground of the optimistic romantic, who took from the lessons of the
immovable jewels a licence almost to devise his own systems of symbolism and call them Freemasonry.
Today Masonic scholarship sometimes finds scope in the examination of ideas and episodes that have little
to do with the origins of the Craft as we understand them, but possess nevertheless some significance as
illustrating how men have accepted and handled the institution.
Many meanings, after all, may be assigned to any one symbol, and there is nothing wrong with moralising
and speculating, provided moralising and speculating do not give way to the arrogance of unsupportable
assertion. It is not within the power of any man or body of men to add new meanings to old symbols and
force the Craft to accept them.
The student of the history of the Craft will find a great deal of well-meaning speculation and didacticism,
particularly from Victorian times, which would not hold much water today. Modern scholars have made an
earnest effort to clear the corrosion off the essential core and to present a coherent and accurate picture of the
historical Craft and of its ungarbled teaching.
Perhaps that does not mean that we should altogether write off the great Masonic romantics. Perhaps they,
like the religious commentators of a generation or two earlier, have contributed something to the sum of
human understanding; and by embroidering on the Craft have made constant re-examination and testing of
their statements necessary, so that nothing is taken for granted, everything is thrown back on to its authority.
If this is so, then statements we make today about the Craft will be made at the risk of keen and informed
criticism; they are likely to be carefully made, and as accurate as our talents and researches can make them,
and therefore they are likely to keep the Craft what it has always been, making its own traditional and well-
understood contribution to the welfare of the community.
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Governor - General's First Masonic Meeting in New Zealand
R.Wor. Bro. His Excellency, Sir Arthur Porritt, Past Grand Warden of the United Grand Lodge of England,
attended his first Masonic Lodge Meeting in New Zealand, when he visited St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge,
No. 79, N.Z.C., at its regular meeting in August. The Lodge was tyled at 7 p.m. and later called off while the
W.M., Wardens, Secretary and D.C. went to the door of the Masonic Hall to receive R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur
Porritt.
In the ante room he met five Old Boys of Whanganui Collegiate School who were at school with him.
R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt's father was initiated it St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge, No. 79, in 1909. His
grand father, W. Bro. Rev. Thomas Porritt, was prominent associated with Freemasonry in Wanganui in the
1890s an our R.Wor. Bro. was handed a copy of an installation programme dated 1896 in which his
grandfather, then a Past Master, was the installing Master.
When he entered the Lodge Room, R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt was escorted by the D.C. and Wor. Bro. D.
McKee W.M., of Tongariro Lodge, No. 705, E.C. and Wor. Bro Ramsbottom, W.M. of Patea Kilwinning
Lodge, No. 18, N.Z.C. the oldest daughter Lodge of St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge who acted as Deacons.
At the meeting there was a large attendance, not only of the Officers and Brethren of St. Andrew Kilwinning
Lodge but also of the W.M.s, Officers and Brethren of sister lodge including Tongariro Lodger No. 705,
E.C., the oldest lodge in Wanganui.
The business of the evening was the initiation of John Desmond Cameron Watson, an Old Boy of
Whanganui Collegiate School and the great, great grandson of an early Past Master of the Lodge. When the
candidate retired to be restored V.Wor. Bro. Tremewan, P.G.D.C., presented R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt
with an Hon. Member's Jewel and a copy of the Lodge History.
In the refectory, where Freemasons make real the relaxation which follows Labour in the Lodge Room, a
toast to the distinguished visitor was proposed by an old school mate, Wor. Bro. P. L. Dickson. "It is indeed
an honour and a pleasure to propose this toast," said Wor. Bro. Dickson. "It is an honour because of his high
and exalted rank, both as Governor-General and as a Freemason: it is both a pleasure and delight because our
R.Wor. Bro. and I were school mates at the Whanganui Collegiate School during the years 1914 to 1917."
Wor. Bro. Dickson then traced R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt's Masonic career.
"Tonight, Brethren," continued Wor. Bro. Dickson, "we have made him a member of our Lodge and of the
great St. Andrew Kilwinning family, which is gathered here tonight with our old friends of Tongariro Lodge,
who acted as midwife when St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge was born, to welcome him home to his native city
and do him honour.
"We honour him as the representative of our beloved Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II and as a P.G. Warden of
the United Grand Lodge of England. We honour him as the Grand Master Elect of our own Grand Lodge.
We honour him as a worthy son of a late esteemed brother of this Lodge."
And then. Wor. Bro. Dickson sprang the surprise of the night: "And we wish him many, many Happy
Returns of Saturday next, which is his birthday." With a great deal of enthusiasm the big assembly honoured
the toast and sang "Happy Birthday" which was followed by three times seven.
In his reply to the toast, R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt conveyed greetings from the Grand Lodge of England
and from New Zealand Lodge, of which members of St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge and Tongariro Lodge
had been founders. He said that he gladly accepted the honour of becoming an Honorary Member of the
Lodge which had been his father's Mother Lodge. Of the Degree which he had witnessed he said that he
presumed that it was founded on the Kilwinning Lodge in Scotland and although it differed from the English
Ritual, to his way of thinking the final charge had been outstanding.
In proposing the toast to the candidate who had been initiated into the Mysteries and Privileges of Antient
Freemasonry, Wor. Bro. A. G. Horsley sprang another surprise when he announced that the candidate was
celebrating his birthday that day and after drinking the Toast the Brethren sang "Happy Birthday" to the
initiate just as they had sung it to the high ranking R.Wor. Bro. earlier.
This great meeting, which R.Wor. Bro. Sir Arthur Porritt referred to in a letter to the W.M. of the Lodge as
"an historical occasion", came to an end with the singing of "Just a Wee Deoch and Doris" and the Tyler's
Toast.
It will long be remembered by those who were privileged to have signed the attendance book.
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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.
Alan Marryatt, 225 Main Rd., Trentham.
J. E. Aitken, 7 Ranfurly Tce., Wellington.
C. T. Robertson, 94 Purnell St., Wanganui.
D. L. Hendra, 23 Elizabeth St., Feilding.
D, R. McKenzie, 87 James St., Whakatane.
K. A. Richards, Antares Flats, 6 East St., Petone.
O. C. Campbell, 184 Gillies Ave., Epsom, Auckland.
W. G. H. Crothers, 31 Bill Hercock St., Napier.
E. A. Dawson. 1 McLeod St., Christchurch, 1.
G. K. W. Page, Flat 2, 394 Mt. Eden Rd.. Auckland.
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Tolerance
In an aside to your editor in the refectory at a recent meeting of Rewa Lodge of Viti, a distinguished Grand
Officer who was present gave it as his opinion that of all the qualities or attributes required of a Freemason
that of tolerance was the greatest and most difficult to achieve.
How right he was. Perhaps, unwittingly, he had touched upon what is wrong with the world and the root of
all its troubles—lack of tolerance.
In the great and superb Charge which is delivered to every candidate after he has been Initiated, he is told
that Prudence should direct him, Temperance chasten him, Fortitude support him, and Justice be the guide of
all his actions. In the same Charge his attention is called to other excellences of character and it seems rather
odd that Tolerance is not mentioned amongst them.
Tolerance is surely one of the finest of the virtues and few men possess it. It means, quite simply,
forbearance. To have the capacity to see the other man's point of view and to respect it, even when that point
of view is directly opposed to your own sincere convictions and beliefs. It means to be your brother's keeper;
and to appreciate his feelings, even though he has never taken the trouble to appreciate yours. It means to
sublimate your own primordial instincts which tell you to hit back and hit back hard. That, in effect, is the
message of Tolerance and it is an essential message for Freemasons.
It is very difficult indeed to be a tolerant man. Everyday life is full of competition and there is little time for
quiet, constructive thought in the bustle of 20th century life. Like all other mortals, Masons are human in
their desires and in their needs, which in some measure, are conditioned by the world in which they live.
Like everyone else, the Mason has a job to do and, in many cases, it is an onerous one leaving him little time
for contemplation or reflection. He has to work to support his family, he usually engages in the pursuit of
sporting and social activities, he sometimes takes a prominent position in the life of the community and,
when he can find the time after all that, he sometimes gets down to the task of promoting the welfare of his
Lodge.
There is no weakness in being known as a tolerant man; rather it is the hallmark of greatness, the culmination
of a balanced and perspicacious mind.
Let us, therefore, endeavour to cultivate the quality of tolerance in all things. It will not only bring inner
satisfaction to ourselves, but adorn the Craft which has admitted us and which we promised to serve.
—Rewa Lodge of Viti, No. 2238, E.C., Newsletter
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The Symbol of the Keystone
Probably the most beautiful symbol in Freemasonry is that of the Keystone!
It does not appear in the symbolism of the Lodge, but is reserved for those degrees dealing with the Chapter
and its symbolism, where it is found in all but one of the degrees of that system. The reason for its absence in
lodge symbolism is that the lodge deals with preparation for eternal life, whereas the Chapter deals with the
completion.
The Keystone is the symbol of completion!
For all practical purposes the Keystone is the last stone placed in the arch, and as such, represents
completion. The placing of the Keystone in the symbolic arch of the Chapter, represents the completion of
the individual Temple which each craftsman is erecting.
True, the Temple material was destroyed, but it was only the symbol of the Spiritual Temple which can
never be destroyed. Royal Arch Masonry's efforts are towards building spiritual Temples and its
ceremonies, its legends, and its teachings, while beautiful in themselves, are there for the sole purpose of
teaching great spiritual truths.
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Time Wasted
Time wasted is existence; when used, it is life. It is your ability to know what is waste of time that enables
you to use it correctly. Dreaming is no waste of time if you strive to make the dream come true.
Playing games is no waste of time if you find in them relaxation and delight. Dancing is no waste of time if
you listen to the music and renew the harmony in your soul by keeping the rhythm.
Movie-going is no waste of time if it permits you to escape from yourself. Reading is no waste of time if you
choose your literary menu wisely. Autoing is no waste of time if it allows you to accomplish more or if it
takes you to clear, fresh air.
Talking is no waste of time if you think and evaluate before you speak.
Feasting is no waste of time when you do it with joy.
Work is no waste of time when you do it with joy.
Work is no waste of time if in your work there is an element of art—something to make the world better.
Envy is a waste of time! Revenge is a waste of time! For envy saps your vitality and revenge hinders
progress. Envy retards and revenge weakens.
The great do not envy. And the successful are too busy for revenge.
—Exchange
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LOST
Master Masons Certificate, in leather wallet, on Air New Zealand flight between Nandi and Auckland, 27-28
September. Name on wallet and certificate, J. Hurley, No. 7 (Sydney St. Andrew No. 7). This has
sentimental value as it was presented in 1928. Finder please forward to, Grand Lodge Office, P.O. Box 6439,
Wellington.
NORTHLAND
Recently several Auckland Brethren visiting Whangarei for an Installation Meeting of one of the Additional
Orders in Freemasonry were conducted around the very fine project which has been started in that city on
behalf of the Northland District to assist in the housing of the elderly people of the whole of Northland.
The Auckland Brethren were most impressed with what is being accomplished in a district where the
Brethren are thinly scattered over a large area. The site which was donated by a citizen who is not a member
of the Craft, is almost opposite the Northland Base Hospital at Whangarei and allows for much future
extension.
The visitors were immediately conscious of the great enthusiasm of those who are putting so much effort and
drive into the project and it is to be hoped that one and all, both lodges and individual members will get
behind these inspired and devoted Brethren so that their labours when completed will bring great joy, in the
knowledge that they have participated according to their means, in a worthy Masonic project which, whilst
playing an important part in the life of the community, will also show to the outside world, the true intent
and meaning of Freemasonry.
On our homeward journey I was reminded of those words of John Ruskin which have by coincidence just
appeared in the "Craftsman" and which I feel will bear repeating. Therefore when we build, let us think that
we build for eternity. Let it not be for present delight nor for present use alone, but let it be of such work as
our descendants will thank us for, and let us think as we lay stone upon stone, that a time will come when the
stones will be held sacred because our hands have touched them, and men will say as they look upon the
labour that wrought them, "see this our fathers did for us."—H.A.M.
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AUCKLAND
LODGE WAIKOMITI, No. 396
In the midst of a year which has been noted for outstanding Masonic occasions and brilliant Installation
meetings, a very unique meeting was recently held under the charter of Lodge Waikomiti, No. 396, and we
venture to say that this particular evening stands out as a bright light to all who were privileged to be present.
On this occasion the ceremony of the Third Degree was conducted by Past Grand Stewards of the Auckland
District, the candidate being Bro. Phillip James Wilson.
The following officers participated in the ceremony:
Master, W. Bro. Jack W. Howard, P.G.S., Orakei,
No. 270; S.W.. W. Bro. Grant G. McNickle, P.G.S.,
Kaikohe, No. 255; J.W., W. Bro. James R. Brown,
P.G.S., Maungawhao, No. 168; Chaplain, W. Bro.
J. R. Ferguson, G.S., Milford, No. 372; D. of C..
W. Bro. Lloyd A. Boswell, G.S., Waikomiti, No.
396; S.D., W. Bro. William R. Tootill, P.G.S.,
Taimau, No. 331; J.D., W. Bro. Stanley H.
Downes, P.G.S., William Ferguson Massey, No.
282; Organist, W. Bro. Wilson Duncan, P.G.S.,
Manukau, No. 24; 1.G., W. Bro. Harold L.
Crippen, P.G.S., Howick, No. 314; Exhortation, W.
Bro. Menzies C. Officer, P.G.S., Wairoa, No. 54;
Obligation, W. Bro. Robert G. Barnett, W.M.,
Waikomiti, No. 396; C. after Raise, W. Bro.
Thomas W. McCown, P.G.S.. Hokianga, No. 69;
Secrets, W. Bro. Stanley H. Downes, P.G.S.,
Maungarei, No. 427; C. after Invest., W. Bro.
Edward D. Langton, P.G.S., Manukau, No. 24; 1st Trad. Hist., W. Bro. Wilson Duncan, P.G.S., Manukau,
No. 24; 2nd Trad. Hist., W. Bro. Basil H. Siddle, P.G.S., Maungakiekie, No. 373; Extd. Secrets, W. Bro.
Cecil W. Monigatti, G.S., Rangiwai, No. 365; W.T.'s, W. Bro. Graham O. Sims, P.G.S., Selwyn, No. 274;
Final Charge, W. Bro. Arthur I. Harrison, P.G.S., Rongomau, No. 280; Presentation VSL, W. Bro. Clarence
L. Simpson, P.M., Waikomiti, No. 396; Herald, W. Bro. L. G. Downes, Master, Trinity, No. 360.
The Prov. Grand Master, R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, received the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. J. A. Redwood,
who was attended by 40 Officers of Grand Lodge.
The ceremonial working was of a particularly high standard, fitting for such an occasion and was evidence
that much thought, energy and study had been indulged in by those concerned. At the conclusion of the
ceremony the candidate was presented with his own particular V.S.L. by W. Bro. C. L. Simpson, P.M. of the
Lodge, who gave a most interesting and instructive address.
In the refectory when replying to his toast, so ably proposed by the Master of the Lodge, W. Bro. R. G.
Barnett the M.W., the Grand Master referred to the importance of the office of Grand Steward, mentioning
its antiquity and giving examples of how honourable and important the office is in the United Grand Lodge
of England. In the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, the Grand Master said, the appointment as Grand Steward
is a signal honour, and recalled that when he was appointed to the office how uplifted he felt and how his
views on Freemasonry were so much strengthened. He congratulated those who took part in the ceremony
and said that the ceremonial working was a credit to those concerned. He complimented those who had the
foresight to arrange the meeting and suggested that now that the first hurdle had been successfully cleared
they should go further and form an organisation of Grand Stewards who could meet, say annually, in much
the same way as the 1959 and 1961 Masters now meet in Auckland. I will be happy to be a member of such
an organisation, as after all I am a Past Grand Steward myself, said the Most Worshipful, the Grand Master.
W. Bro. L. A. Boswell, G.S., who did so much in organising the meeting, proposed the toast to the visitors
which was replied to by W. Bro. J. McManemin, Master of Lodge Wairoa, No. 55, who congratulated and
thanked the Past Grand Stewards for a wonderful evening which he said was an inspiration to all who were
privileged to be present. He concluded his reply by saying, "Thanks for the memory of a wonderful evening".
Altogether this was an outstanding, an interesting and a very pleasant evening and one that could very well
be repeated or even instituted on an annual basis.—H.A.M.
————
LODGE MORNINGSIDE, No. 228
On Saturday 14 September Lodge Morningside, No. 228, had the distinguished honour of acting as host
Lodge on the occasion of the nineteenth annual Fraternal Visit of the Brethren of the Auckland
Railwaymen's Masonic Association, at an Emergency Meeting held at the Masonic Temple, St. Benedict's
Street, Auckland.
The Prov. Grand Master, R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, who was accompanied by M.W. Bro. W. W. Wright, Past
Pro. Grand Master, Grand Almoner and Patron of the Auckland Railwaymen's Masonic Association, V.W.
Bro. A. R. While. President of the Board of Benevolence, V.W. Bro. R .A Lincoln, Asst. Prov. Grand
Master, V.W. Bro .T. P. Glenie, Past Asst. Prov. Grand Master, V.W. Bro. H. A. Marks, Grand Lecturer, W.
Bro. K. F. Connew, Asst. Grand Director of Ceremonies, and 14 Officers of Grand Lodge were received by
the Master of Lodge Morningside, No. 228, W. Bro. G. Roger and expressed his great delight at once again
being present at this happy annual occasion, which he felt must be a great event in the Masonic lives of
those, who through the nature of their calling, were so often away from their mother lodge, and of necessity
must move into areas where they were unknown. The friendships which were made and renewed at these
meetings must make for happier working conditions and more interesting and beneficial Masonic lives, said
the Prov. Grand Master. He also mentioned how honoured he was to have with him M.W. Bro. Wright and
so many high ranking Officers of Grand Lodge.
W. Bro. G. Roger lowered the Lodge to the Second and First Degrees and Fellowcrafts and Entered
Apprentice Freemasons were admitted. He then placed the following Railway Brethren in the appropriate
chairs:
S.W., W. Bro. A. E. Pinder, P.M., Lodge Maori, No. 105; J.W., W. Bro. F. V. Overton, P.M., Lodge
Manurewa, No. 222; D. of C., W. Bro. T. N. Clayton, P.M., Lodge Arawhaiti, No. 267; Chaplain, W. Bro. R.
Campbell, P.M., Lodge Tamaki, No. 328; Secretary, Bro. J. Ashton, S.W., Lodge Maungarei, No. 427; S.D.,
W. Bro. G. N. Fahey, P.M., Lodge Rongamau, No. 280; J.D., W. Bro. J. A. Reid, P.M., Lodge Ngaruahoe,
No. 205; Organist, W. Bro. J. J. Standen, P.M., Lodge Tamaki, No. 328; I.G., W. Bro. J. E. Williams, P.M.,
Lodge Northland, No. 341.
The W. Master then introduced V.W. Bro. H. A. Marks and invited him to address the Brethren. The Grand
Lecturer selected as his subject, "Kipling and the Craft", tracing the early life and background of Kipling and
quoting many of the Masonic passages and references in his works. He selected several passages, making
reference to railway affairs, intermingled with Masonic tradition as set out by Kipling in his writings and
brought smiles and laughter into the meeting with some of the quotations. Much interest was evinced in his
rendering of many of Kipling's poems which have a Masonic trend, highlighted by Kipling's famous "Mother
Lodge". Questions were invited and answered and a happy meeting was then closed after the retirement of
Officers of Grand Lodge.
One was particularly delighted to see Bro. P. Gordon seated among his Railway Brethren and obviously
enjoying a Masonic evening happy and relaxed away from duties of his high office. I understand that early in
the evening the Master called him to the East and gave him a special welcome.
A very fine musical programme was provided in the refectory interspersed by toasts appropriate to the
occasion.
The Prov. Grand Master in replying to the toast to Officers of Grand Lodge present and past, mentioned the
high esteem in which the Auckland Railwaymen's Masonic Association was held. He said that the high
standards set and maintained from the time of the first meeting and the charitable works carried out by the
Association had endeared it to all Freemasons and he wished the Association every success in the future.
M.W. Bro. Wright was called upon not once but twice to address the assembly once as an Officer of Grand
Lodge and also as Patron of the organisation and in his inimitable way brought great joy to all present.
The long Toast List was well handled by W. Bro. T. N. Clayton and those who proposed and responded to
the Toasts spoke briefly and well. A very happy evening closed with the Officers of Grand Lodge
fraternising with the Brethren and everyone loath to leave the building.—H.A.M.
————
THE FIRST GRAND PRINCIPAL VISITS AUCKLAND
On Wednesday 18 September the Chapters of the Auckland Royal Arch District under the guidance of their
popular Grand Superintendent, R. Ex Companion E. H. Bradstreet, held a combined meeting to welcome M.
Ex Companion A. J. Hendry, First Grand Principal on his official visit to the District.
The Auckland Provincial Royal Arch Chapter, No. 9, the senior chapter in the Auckland District acted as
host for the evening and the work of the evening was the Annual Installation Convocation of that Chapter.
In the presence of 250 companions, R. Ex. Companion Bradstreet received the Grand Superintendents of the
Sister Constitutions and their Grand Chapter Officers as follows:
M. Ex. Comp. L. S. Judd, Prov. Grand Supt., Supreme Grand R.A. Chapter of Ireland, M. Ex. Comp. A. T.
Gore, Grand Supt. N.Z. North, Supreme Grand R. A. Chapter of Scotland, Ex. Comp. I. E. Whale, District
Third Grand Principal, representing the District Grand Superintendent, Supreme Grand R.A. Chapter of
England.
M. Ex. Comp. A. J, Hendry, 1st Grand Principal, was then received accompanied by 45 Officers of Grand
Chapter.
In welcoming the 1st Grand Principal, Rt. Ex. Companion Bradstreet, said that the Auckland Companions
had been eagerly awaiting the visit of M. Ex. Comp. Hendry and expressed the wish that the M. Ex. First
Grand Principal would have an enjoyable sojourn, in this the northern part of the Territory. The Royal Craft
in this District was in very good heart said the Grand Supt. and the harmony with the Sister Constitutions
such that all had been happy to accept his invitation to be present on this great occasion. The Grand Supt.
particularly mentioned the fellowship which existed between the Royal Arch and Craft Masonry in his
District and said how proud he was that M.W. Bro. J. A. Redwood, the M.W. Grand Master, and R.W. Bro.
L. A. Lincoln, Prov. Grand Master, were present to greet the M. Ex. 1st Grand Principal.
M. Ex. the 1st Grand Principal thanked R. Ex. Comp. Bradstreet for the warmth of his welcome, he said he
was overcome by the great attendance, but had been warned to expect it by those who had preceded him in
Office. He thanked the Sister Constitutions for the honour of their presence and thanked M.W. the Grand
Master and R.W. the Prov. Grand Master for making some of their very busy time available to attend the
meeting.
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Banners of all kinds available from
Regalia House
The Ceremony of Installation was then proceeded with and all present felt that it was an outstanding
meeting, as all who took part rose to the occasion and excelled in their work.
The banquet provided in the refectory was equal to the momentous event. In replying to the Toast to his
health, so ably proposed by R. Ex. Comp. R. A. Lincoln, P.G.J., M. Ex. the 1st Grand Principal thanked all
who had worked to make the evening such a successful and memorable one, indeed he felt that it was the
most outstanding meeting of his Office so far, and the work of the evening a credit to all who took part. M.
Ex. Comp. Hendry spoke on the membership of the Order and of the efforts needed to sustain the interest of
all companions, he thanked the Auckland Chapter of Research, No. 93, for their efforts for Royal Arch
Masonry and particularly thanked R.E. Companions Robertson and Glenie for their paper, "The Master
Mason and the Royal Arch", which he said was doing a great deal to enlighten many members of the Craft
on the connection of the two bodies, and at the same time was clearing away many false ideas which had
been formed.
A most enjoyable evening ended with the customary Installation Toast List, on this occasion outstanding
speeches, knowledgable, brief, and to the point, and all having an important message.—H.A.M.
————
AN INSTALLATION WITH A DIFFERENCE
A meeting with many unusual features and of considerable interest to Brethren throughout New Zealand was
held in the Masonic Hall, St. Benedict's Street, Auckland, on Monday 30 September last. The occasion was
the annual Installation meeting of the Lodge of Peace, No. 322, when R.W. Bro. H. R. A. Vialoux, P.Dep.
G.M., installed his son, Bro. Rodney Vialoux into the Chair of K.S.
As a partnership in Auckland, father and son are both well known legal practitioners and both have also
attained distinction in other walks of life. R.W. Bro. H. R. A. Vialoux has given long and faithful service
throughout New Zealand in both Craft and Royal Arch, being Past Deputy Grand Master in the one and Past
First Grand Principal in the other. W. Bro. R. N. Vialoux, like his father, has given service to the Northern
Masonic Trust and is also a General Synodsman of the Anglican Church.
The new Master's family has a long association with the Craft in New Zealand. His paternal great
grandfather, Bro. I. R. "Vialou", the first Mayor of Hamilton, was an early member of Ara Lodge, No. 348,
I.C., while on the maternal side, an unbroken Craft link runs back at least to his grandfather, Bro. T. B. Clay,
who lived to enjoy his Masonic Jubilee.
In the presence of a large attendance of Brethren, the Prov. G.M., R. W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, received R.W.
Bro. Vialoux accompanied by approximately 50 Grand Lodge Officers, including M.W. Bro. Wilfrid W.
Wright, P.Pro. G.M. and R.W. Bros. E. H. Bradstreet and Arch. Burns, both Past Dep. G.M.'s. Most of those
who took part in the ceremony had a close link in some way with either son or father. M.W. Bro. Wright,
who addressed the Brethren had been Grand Director of Ceremonies at R.W. H. R. A. Vialoux's own
installation. V.W. Bro. J. P. Glenie, P.Asst. Prov. G.M., who addressed the Master, had also addressed him
from the West, as S.W. on his initiation.
In the Warden's Chairs were V:W. Bro. D. A. Thorburn, Pres. Bd. G.P. and V.W. Bro. A. R. White, Pres. Bd.
Ben., the latter an initiate of R.W. Bro. Vialoux when he was in the Chair of Lodge Arawhaiti, No. 267, in
the years 1936 and 1937.
R.W. Bro. Vialoux is well known as a great traditionalist, yet he did not hesitate to make minor variations in
the ceremonial customs of the District, where he properly and with advantage could do so. Obviously he was
much moved by the great privilege of installing his son into the Chair of the Lodge. After investing him,
R.W. Bro. Vialoux presented the Ionic Column, "so named", he said, "after the Ionians, an ancient Grecian
race who were well renowned for the high standard of their culture, philosophy and wisdom."
The Installing Officer then continued, "And now, as Master of my Lodge, I greet, honour and obey you, and
as my son, I-say as Aaron of old was commanded to say to his sons, may the Lord bless and keep you. May
he cause his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May he lift up the light of his countenance
upon you and give you peace, now and evermore."
In the Refectory, R.W. Bro. Vialoux requested R.W. Bro. W. H. V. Taine to make a presentation on his
behalf to the new Master, his son. It took the form of a beautiful silver rose-bowl on which were four
inscriptions. The first recorded that the bowl had in 1937 been presented by Lodge Arawhaiti to Bro. Rodney
Vialoux's maternal grandfather, Bro. T. B. Clay on his Golden Wedding and forthcoming Masonic Jubilee;
the second that the bowl had been used by Bro. Clay's son at his installation as Master of Lodge Amity, No.
354 (Dunedin) in 1952; the third that it was presented to R.W. Bro. H. R. A. Vialoux in 1955; and the fourth
that it was presented in turn to W. Bro. Rodney Vialoux on his installation in to the Chair of the Lodge of
Peace.
The presentation was made by R.W. Bro. Taine in a manner which delighted all present.
The final important link in a most interesting and unusual evening was the toast to the new Master, proposed
by W. Bro. D. G. Stotter, who had initiated him in 1956. This toast was a delightful tribute to a Master who,
during the evening, demonstrated that he too could well follow in the Masonic footsteps of his illustrious
father who since his installation in 1936 has made such a tremendous contribution to Freemasonry in this
country.
This was indeed, an installation with a difference!
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VISIT OF G.Z. TO AUCKLAND
The Auckland Provincial Royal Arch Chapter, No. 9, has experienced many outstanding occasions since its
formation in 1892, but its minutes record few that have been more interesting than the annual Installation
meeting held in the Masonic Temple, St. Benedict's Street, Auckland, on the 18th September last.
The evening was notable in many ways but chiefly because it was the occasion of the first official visit to the
Auckland District of the First Grand Principal, M.E. Comp. A. J. Hendry of Christchurch. A large attendance
of the companions in the area and the support of M.E. Comp Arch: Burns, P.G.Z., and of 43 Grand Chapter
Officers ensured that No. 9 had a spectacular beginning to its 77th year.
Before receiving the First Grand Principal, the Grand Supt., R.E. Comp. E. H. Bradstreet, also received
representatives of the Sister Constitutions, namely M.E. Comp L. S. Judd, Prov. Grand Supt. (Ireland), M.E.
Comp. A. T. Gore, Grand Supt. for N.Z. North (Scotland) and E. Comp. I. E. Whale, Dist. Third Grand
Principal (England). With each was a goodly representation of Provincial and District Grand Chapter
Officers. Thus it was with a distinguished gathering, that R.E. Comp. Bradstreet received and warmly
welcomed the First Grand Principal.
There was also particular interest in the ceremony through the fact that both outgoing and incoming First
Principals were well known in the District, not only as prominent Freemasons, but as men who have earned
public esteem in other walks of life. The capacity of each was apparent in their work during the evening.
Most of the companions present were aware that the outgoing First Principal, V.E. Comp. Colin Stichbury,
had suffered illness during his term and were happy to note his steady return to good health.
Of special interest was the presentation made by the First Grand Principal to the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. J.
A. Redwood, of his certificate as Past Grand Supt.
M.E. Comp. Hendry in making the presentation,
spoke of the distinguished services R.E. Comp.
Redwood had given to Freemasonry in this country
and of his great pleasure that by his loyal support
of Royal Arch Masonry, Comp. Redwood had
earned the distinguished rank of Past Grand
Superintendent. "This evidences," said the First
Grand Principal, "the very close relationship which
exists between the Craft and the Royal Arch in this
District, a fact that is further stressed by the
presence among us tonight, of the Prov. Grand
Master, R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, who is attending
in his capacity of an Officer of Grand Chapter."
Many other prominent Grand Lodge Officers also
attended as Officers of Grand Chapter, notable
among them being V.E. Comp. Wilfred W. Wright,
P.G.S.N., well known and greatly beloved as a Past
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Tracing Boards available on order from
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Pro. Grand Master in the Craft. Now 88 years of age, V.E. Comp. Wright invested the Treasurer and did so
in his own inimitable and delightful way. The Charge to the First Principal was delivered by R.E. Comp.
Frank Kirton, P.D.G.Z., who at the age of 84, delighted the companions with an address that few could have
surpassed.
The Refectory proceedings, most ably controlled by the new First Principal, V.E. Comp. Colin McPhail,
were made especially notable by the address of M.E. Comp. Hendry. He spoke of the need for Brethren to
complete their basic Masonic education by taking and studying the Royal Arch group of degrees and made
special reference to a Paper on this subject recently prepared for the Auckland Chapter of Research, by two
Auckland companions, R.E. Comps. J. P. Glenie and G. H. Robertson.
M.E. Comp. Hendry's address on the value and importance of Royal Arch Masonry made a considerable
impression on the large assembly.
The toast to the First Grand Principal was in the hands of R.E. Comp. R. A. Lincoln, P.G.J., who is First
Grant.; Principal designate. As he always does, R.E. Comp. Lincoln spoke in a thoughtful and most
acceptable manner and his toast was well and cordially received by the assembled companions.
There could be little doubt that the First Grand Principal left the meeting with an assurance that his first
official visit to this District had been greatly appreciated by his Auckland Companions.
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RUAPEHU DISTRICT
A TRIBUTE TO A GREAT MASON
I esteem it a privilege although a sad one to be asked to write a tribute to the late V. Wor. Bro. J. A.
Colquhoun, P.G. Lec.
Over 40 years ago I assisted in his initiation into Lodge Huia. To me he was a name of a teacher in the
Palmerston North High School. The following day on passing the High School I called in to make myself
known to him. From then on for over 30 years I spent many hours there discussing Masonry. It was the
beginning of a life long and deep friendship.
His public life has already been written in the Press so I will confine myself to Masonry and his connection
with it.
He was W.M. of Lodge Huia in 1933 and I had the honour of installing him into the chair, which he
occupied for two years owing to the illness of Bro. Amos McKegg who later succeeded him.
He was a perfectionist who did his best to attain that standard. Not a brilliant ritualist but his interpretation of
our teaching and his wonderful philosophy made up for any defects he may have had. Kind in his criticism
and always constructive his method was always sincere appreciation of effort, thinking aloud, and honesty in
thought, word and deed. A man of strong opinions, stubborn at times but always ready to listen, and agree to
other opinions when convinced to give way, even if he did with that well-known kindly look and smile, say
"To hell with you I'm a Colquhoun".
He disliked hypocracy and sham. He was a Grand Lodge Lec. who walked the extra mile. He travelled
hundreds of miles giving talks to many Lodges, not always on Masonry but always a brilliant lecture,
listened to as he never wasted words on time wasting talk.
He was the first Master of Lodge Pa-Ka-Ma. He helped to lay the foundation of our Lodge, and we have
never deviated from the principles he laid down.
When one reaches the age of the seventies, one's thoughts at times turn to the hereafter, and we discussed it
on occasions. I suppose all men of that age do, and we both agreed that at the end of a life well spent in
giving service to others and in endeavouring to live as a Freemason should, then sorrow should be confined
to relatives, but sympathy expressed to them.
We as Freemasons who sincerely believe in our teaching do not grieve, we expect to go to a Grand Lodge
above.
May I be excused if I conclude with perhaps a flight of imagination.
If we qualify to go to that Grand Lodge above we will again meet Coonie who will say, "Hullo Brethren,
how goes Pa-Ka-Ma".
We will miss him in Pa-Ka-Ma.
A great man. —V.W. Bro. A. V. Pizzey, P.G.D.C.
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WELLINGTON
THE CORONATION LODGE, No. 127
AN HISTORIC OCCASION
An occurrence which surely must be unprecedented in the annals of Freemasonry in New Zealand was
celebrated in a manner worthy of its nature at a recent meeting of the Lodge. This unique event was a
presentation to two brothers, Eddie and Warren Hicks, of the Fifty Years' Service Badges awarded to each of
them by Grand Lodge. It would be interesting to learn of any parallel case on record.
It was a happy thought that a namesake, V.Wor. Bro. Edwin W. Hicks, Past District Grand Inspector of
Workings, New South Wales, Australian High Commissioner in New Zealand, had been deputed to make the
presentation on behalf of Grand Lodge. This, our eminent Brother performed in a simple and charming
manner after Wor. Bro. Donald McGaughran, Worshipful Master had given the assembly a brief outline of
the service given to the Lodge by the recipients. Both Warren and Eddie Hicks were initiated into
Freemasonry in the Coronation Lodge in 1918 after their return from war service. In 1926 Eddie was
installed as Worshipful Master with Warren as his Junior Warden, the latter gaining the Chair in his turn in
1928. Wor. Bro. Eddie Hicks was three times Director of Ceremonies, while his brother had one year in that
office, having previously served two terms as Secretary. In the period that followed both have been held in
high regard as stalwarts of the Lodge.
In the refectory proceedings later Wor. Bro. Jim Sleeman, on behalf of the Lodge, paid a warm tribute to
these two brothers among Brethren in a special toast warmly joined by the Brethren present. Each brother
Hicks couched his reply in an informal and reminiscent vein which gave delight to all present. A truly happy
evening.—R.R.M.
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CANTERBURY
NEW LODGE CONSTITUTED—LODGE AWHINA, No. 439
The Constitution and Dedication of the new Lodge Awhina gave much pleasure to the Brethren of
Canterbury, and also especially to the Grand Master, Most Wor. Brother John A. Redwood, who was able to
conduct the ceremony of constituting and dedicating the first new Lodge during his term of office.
Lodge Awhina has 46 Charter Members, and is to meet in the Lodge Room of the Concord Lodge, Frank
Street, Papanui, Christchurch.
The very large attendance of Brethren at the Masonic Flail paid close attention to the whole of the extremely
impressive ceremony. The Grand Secretary, V. Wor. Bro. P. J. Oliver read the Petition and Charter, and
Prayers were given by the Grand Chaplain, V. Wor. Bro. N. W. Fraser.
The Grand Master was assisted by M.W. Bro. W. J. Girling, P.G.M., M.W. Bro. A. H. C. Cavell, P.G.M.,
M.W. Bro. J. S. Hawker, P.G.M, and R.W. Bro. T. W. Pairman, Dep. G.M. These assisting officers in
procession, made circuits of the Lodge, bearing and presenting the Elements of Consecration. The Grand
Master scattered corn, poured wine, annointed the Lodge with oil, and strew salt on the Lodge. Assistance
was also given by the Grand Director of Ceremonies, V. Wor. Bro. I. K. Dunbar. This carefully performed
Consecration was punctuated by Scripture Readings and the singing of Odes.
The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Redwood then formally Constituted and Dedicated the Lodge. After the
Members of Lodge Awhina had given homage to Grand Lodge, an Oration was delivered by the Grand
Lecturer, V. Wor. Bro. L. D. J. Smith. This was splendidly delivered and made a great impression on the
Brethren.
Installation of First Master
Rt. Wor. Bro. J. W. Vivian, Prov. G.M., then proceeded to install the first Master of the new Lodge, Wor.
Bro. Ross Barnes, who is a well-known and well respected brother in the Craft in Canterbury.
The Charter was presented by the Grand Master and the Address to the Brethren was given by Rt. Wor. Bro.
A. F. Fisher, P. Dep. G.M.
Address by the Grand Master
Most Wor. Bro. Redwood addressed the Brethren in the Refectory. He said that the Constitution and
Dedication of the new Lodge gave him very much pleasure and satisfaction, and he was glad to have the
support of a large number of Grand Lodge Officers, including numbers from distant parts of New Zealand.
He congratulated the Master and his Officers on their appointments.
The Grand Master mentioned various projects which have been completed. Three sets of flats for the aged
have been provided at Wellington, Dunedin, and Kaitaia, in addition to others erected previously in other
parts of New Zealand. Four new Lodge buildings have been opened and the new block at Roskill Masonic
Village. Last, but not least, he said it was a great honour to take part in the opening of the Edgar Faber
Memorial Chapel.
The Grand Master said that the ceremony and meeting that evening had been "a most wonderful occasion".
Thanks to Provincial Grand Master
The Grand Master during the evening took the opportunity to thank Rt. Wor. Bro. J. W. Vivian for the work
he had performed as Provincial Grand Master of Canterbury and for what he had done for Freemasonry in
Canterbury and in New Zealand. M.W. Bro. Redwood said that R.W. Bro. Vivian has carried out his duties
in a most conscientious manner and had carried out everything he thought should be done. He thanked him
for the warmth of his hospitality and complimented Mrs Vivian on the valuable assistance she had afforded
her husband during his term of office. — A.C.F.
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OTAGO
W. Bro. T. R. Donaldson, W.M. of Lodge Morning Star, No. 192, after he had welcomed a very large
number of visitors, had the added pleasure on behalf of all Brethren present extending a warm and hearty
welcome to Rt. W. Bro. W. W. Mundy, Prov. G.M. of Otago and a P.M. of Lodge Morning Star and the
Grand Lodge Officers who had accompanied him, when the business of the evening was to install Bro.
George Anderson and invest the newly elected officers of the Lodge.
Our Prov. G.M. was pleased to announce to the Brethren assembled that M.W. Bro. John A. Redwood,
Grand Master, had approved the award of the G.M.'s Order of Service to Bro. A. G. Manning who, until his
retirement from the Dunedin Hospital, was from the formation of the Almoner's Association in Otago in
1949 the representative and has over the years been a true and faithful Freemason in his attention to all
known members of the Craft as patients in the Dunedin Public Hospital and still holds the Office in his
Lodge, Lodge Morning Star No. 192, of Almoner.
In his reply at the proceedings in the refectory Rt.
W. Brother Mundy impressed the need for all
Members to always in word and act maintain the
high ideals and teachings in our daily lives of
Freemasonry.—J.B.