THE NEW YEAR
Freemasons today do not strain the credulity of their newly initiated Brethren by dating the origin of the
Craft back to King Solomon, although it is upon the circumstances attending the erection of King Solomon's
Temple that their ceremonial is chiefly based. They do claim that the badge of a M.M. is "more ancient than
the Golden Fleece, or the Roman Eagle", and this the amateur of ancient artifacts, the student of ancient
civilisations, will abundantly confirm.
Although Masonic observance was formalised comparatively recently, much that the Craft adopted and has
kept in existence goes back, in fact to "time immemorial".
In face of this a single year seems but a small space of time, and yet it is the period chosen by the Craft as its
normal term of office. Annual Communications are held annually, the officers of Grand Lodge and of craft
lodges are usually held each for a year.
A year is not so long a time that a weak Master or an uninterested Standing Committee can do very much
harm to a lodge, should it be so unfortunate as to have made such an election. On the other hand it is little
enough time for the vigorous and useful Master or Standing Committee to put into practice ideas that may
have been maturing for years. It is short enough for no Master to be able to acquire within it anything of a
vested interest in the job, so that the lodge contemplates reluctantly the prospect of a change; it is not so long
that the officers coming up are discouraged by having to serve a very long time in each office. It is, in short,
a most convenient time for the lodge, although it may seem unduly long or unduly short for the individual.
Time goes by slowly enough to ensure continuity; not so fast as to frustrate initiative.
All the same, the Master who has done little to prepare for his year will find that at the end of it he has done
little. If he has done much he will at least have laid a foundation and he may have arrived at an achievement.
His period in office as a Warden is the time during which most Masters have prepared for the year ahead. As
far as possible they have mentally sorted out who are likely to be their principal coadjutors, what work is
likely to be required, where standing committee procedure is creaking a bit, how efficiently the sick are
looked after and the widows cared for, what effort the lodge is making towards a daily advancement in daily
knowledge. As a Warden he can, by his own efficiency and in proper cases advice he can contribute towards
a favourable situation at the time of his installation, so that there is no backlog of inertia or disharmony or
inefficiency to overcome during his first few months, and he can proceed with the work of the lodge in the
most favourable circumstances.
It is customary in some districts for the Provincial Grand Master, when presenting a Past Master's certificate.
or perhaps a jewel, to refer to the work of the Master whose successor has just been installed, to thank him
for his efforts on behalf of the district as well as for what he has done for his own lodge. Sometimes the
Provincial Grand Master has a good deal to say, for certain Masters have found it possible, while still in
office, to exercise a very considerable influence on Masonic affairs over a much wider area than the
immediate territory surrounding their lodges. On these occasions the retiring Master is not dropping out
practically unthanked, as at one time he was apt to do, and the emphasis is restored to where it belongs: the
life of the lodge, rather than to the Brother who has just been installed into the Chair.
It is the whole lodge which is moving forward into a new year; each member of the team with his own
function, his own responsibilities, his own opportunities to derive satisfaction from what he is doing through
doing it to the utmost of his skill and ability.
Our Grand Installation takes place in November; there-after the Craft lodges hold their own ceremonies, and
when the following November comes round there is an entirely new team of Craft lodge officers. To all those
to be installed or invested or preferred in any way during the coming year we wish a happy and successful
year of office, and to all our Brethren we wish happiness during the festive season, as we call it in our time-
honoured cliche; and every opportunity to derive satisfaction from Freemasonry by performing Masonic
service through the whole of the year to come.
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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. E. Aitken. 7 Ranfurly Tce., Wellington.
C. T. Robertson, 94 Purnell St., Wanganui.
D. R. McKenzie, 87 James St., Whakatane.
K. A. Richards, Antares Flats. 6 East St., Petone.
O. C. Campbell, 184 Gillies Ave., Epsom,
Auckland.
E. A. Dawson, 1 McLeod St., Christchurch, 1.
W. G. Wareham, 17 Centennial Cres., Gisborne.
C. K. James, 12 Waipoua St., Mangakino.
AN IDEAL
The perpetuity and value of every Lodge depends upon the intelligence and moral sense of its members and
the conformity of their practice with their profession.
It must always be borne in mind that the Lodge is opened and closed in the name of Him whose law is
concord. Personal interests and prejudice must never be introduced in the administration of the Lodge, which
should be ruled by the spirit of brotherhood.
The practice of personal service and self-sacrifice should be actively developed and the preservation of
harmony and the encouragement of love and unity the constant endeavour of every member.
The value of a Lodge will be measured by the ability of its members to see clearly and act in obedience of
this high vision. It will always be fashioned by their ideals, and if these are true and beautiful the Lodge will
continue to be an influence for good and a centre from which peace and goodwill will radiate.
It is not merely by knowing the rules that a man becomes a good Freemason. It is by abiding by the rules.
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TO LOOK BEHIND IS FATAL
We live in an age when to look behind is fatal. People who continually brood about the injuries, the slights,
the snubs, the mistakes, the injustices and the misfortunes of the past are running the same hazard that the
driver of a car runs who keeps his eyes fixed on the rear-view mirror and pays no attention to the road ahead.
We all seem to agree that experience is a great teacher, but having agreed we do nothing further about it.
Experience is the road we have been over, but the wrecks behind us are not the ones we are trying to avoid. It
is the road ahead that counts in-so-far as our future is concerned. We can't change what is past by brooding.
If we could it would be at the top of the recommendations. Since we can't—it is best to take stock in the
lessons that the past has demonstrated, and apply those lessons to doing something for the future.
I read a talk recently which said: "It might have been the cry of a lost soul. What might yet be is what is
worth living and working for." Forget what can't be helped and live for what can be helped.
I suppose the root of such a philosophy for us Masons is simply to say to ourselves that we must face up each
day to the problems of that day and such problems as we anticipate will be their outgrowths in the days to
come. Certainly we recognise that there is never a time that individuals can relax and know that others will
take care of our problems for us.
When we worry about the state of the nation and we ask what is there that we can do, I am afraid that mostly
we overlook the obvious things that are close at home. What is there to see? We worry about juvenile
delinquency, but would I be far wrong if I were to say that a large part of it could be cured in short order if
parents really took over the job of training their children in the ideals that we believe proper.
Concepts of truth and honesty are better if the parents set the example. I will not wrong, cheat, or defraud
sounds good. Do you actually live it? How many of your children say, "yes sir and no sir?" I have a
philosophy that courtesy breeds respect and discourtesy breeds disrespect. I find courtesy in children sadly
neglected and I worry in the disrespect that surely follows. I think of my Dad "taking instead of sending" us
children to Church. Then I think of his seating us with the family and his insistence that we pay attention,
and he could not countenance our being critical of the one who brought the message.
OBITUARY
R.W. BRO. C. L. SHROFF, DISTRICT GRAND MASTER,
DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF AUCKLAND,
UNDER THE UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND
R.W. Bro. C. L. Shroff, District Grand Master of the Auckland District, under the United Grand Lodge of
England passed away, after a long illness, stoicly borne, on Monday 28 October 1968.
Whilst in England, last year, attending the 250th Celebration of the foundation of the first Grand Lodge, Bro.
Shroff underwent an operation and was very seriously ill. On his return to New Zealand he resumed active
participation in Freemasonry, but had to undergo another operation, several months ago. He never regained
good health, but nevertheless maintained an active interest in the Craft, and supervised the affairs of the
Auckland District.
He was initiated in Remuera Lodge, No. 1710, E.C., in 1928 and became Master in 1938. He held many
District Grand Lodge ranks, including those of District Senior Grand Warden and President of the District
Board of Benevolence. From 1959 to 1964 he was Deputy District Grand Master and in 1964 was appointed
and installed District Grand Master.
His activities in the Craft were recognised by the Grand Lodge of England by his appointment to the rank of
Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in 1952, and Past Grand Deacon in 1961, whilst in 1966 he
received the rank of Past Provincial Grand Master from the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. He was a
Governor of the Northern Masonic Association and did much for the Roskill Masonic Village.
His death is a great loss, not only to the Auckland District, but also to the Craft in general as his intimate
knowledge of Freemasonry and its procedure was of great benefit to all.
His funeral was attended by a large number of brethren and the Grand Master of New Zealand, M.W. Bro. J.
A. Redwood and the Provincial and District Grand Masters of the Sister Constitutions paid their last respects.
His kindly and courteous manner will be sadly missed by the many with whom he was associated.
—————
PEACE, LOVE AND HARMONY AT PRINCE OF WALES LODGE, No. 1338, E.C.
The spirit of friendship and co-operation among the Sister Constitutions in Auckland was once again amply
exemplified on Thursday 12 September when the Prince of Wales Lodge, No. 1338, English Constitution
held their Annual Installation Meeting.
W. Bro. Ivan Whale, Deputy District Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, received the Provincial,
or District Grand Masters of the Irish, Scottish and New Zealand Constitutions, extending a very warm
welcome to all. He expressed the wish that everyone would enjoy a happy evening in the atmosphere that
only a Masonic Meeting could provide.
The Ceremony of Installation was performed by the outgoing Master, W. Bro. J. R. Taylor, with that quiet
dignity and efficiency so notable in the English Working. The investitures of the Officers appointed by the
Worshipful Master were a delight to listen to.
The highlight of the refectory proceedings was the spirit of unity and concord which prevailed. The usual
Toast List was proceeded with and a fine Toast to the continued health of the Master was capably responded
to.
W. Bro. Whale, Deputy District Grand Master, in reply to the Toast proposing "the continued prosperity of
all the Constitutions in the District", commented that this would perhaps be the last occasion on which R.
Wor. Bro. L. A. Lincoln would be representing the Auckland District of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in
his capacity as Provincial Grand Master.
R. Wor. Bro. L. A. Lincoln was invited to reply on behalf of the Sister Constitutions and he first expressed
the thanks of all the Grand Lodge representatives for the invitation to be present. "To have been received by
you, W. Bro. Deputy District Grand Master, has given us much joy", said R.W. Bro. Lincoln. He also paid
tribute to the District Grand Master, W. Bro. Claude Shroff, who has passed away since that meeting. "R.W.
Bro. Claude Shroff was held in the highest regard by all the brethren; his kindly, quiet and dignified
disposition had earned for him the love and respect of all".
All four Constitutions could look back with pride at the Masonic achievements of their past and present
brethren. To mention a few of the leaders of each Constitution—firstly, among our hosts of the Grand Lodge
of England, W. Bros. Daniel Patterson, Allan Wilkin, Claude Shroff and Ivan Whale. The Scottish
Constitution, R.W. Bro. Laws, Bros. Cliff Laurie, Rowe and Bro. Adams. The Irish Constitution, R.W. Bros.
Hedditch, Edwards, Blank, Clark and Brunton; and New Zealand, M.W. Bros. O. Nicholson, Faber,
Redwood and W. W. Wright.
Why, asked the Prov. Grand Master, have all these distingushed brethren devoted so much of their time and
energy and dedicated their lives to Freemasonry? Why in Auckland, for example, have they formed
themselves into a compact body working in harmony in the formation and administration of the Northern
Masonic Association at the Roskill Masonic Village? "It may be explained," said R.W. Bro. Lincoln. . . .
First, by their love of Masonry and their sincere belief in the principles on which the Craft is founded. They
have been the strong ones having shown us the way, and we, the brethren, are the lesser links in the chain,
drawing on their strength and guidance to bind us together in our task of building a spiritual temple to the
Most High. The Craft has stood the test of ages, and our leaders have never faltered. It is for us at Installation
time to review ourselves, re-affirming our belief in the Craft and what it stands for.
Secondly, their fuller understanding of the needs of others, their willingness to render comfort, assistance
and happiness to those in less fortunate circumstances. Let us therefore, my brethren, marshall our thoughts
and our actions and direct our energies along the lines so clearly and well defined by those outstanding
brethren of the Craft.
At a recent Church Service at the Roskill Masonic Village, the Minister, the Rev. Sandy Marshall, made
reference in his Sermon to religions and faith. He said, "There are many religions but only One Faith." "I am
of the opinion," said the Prov. Grand Master, "that this thought is also applicable to Freemasonry. We have
many Grand Lodges but the fundamental principles of the Craft remain the same."
I ask you brethren, what is the challenge of the future? By friendship—to help create a world where order,
service to humanity, and peace prevail. Happiness comes not from having much to live on, but from having
much to live for. We have grasped the mystery of the atom and rejected the Sermon on the Mount, we are
more skilled at making war than we are at keeping the peace, more knowledgable about killing than of aiding
the poor and helpless and of saving lives. What, therefore, can we do brethren? Are you personally a member
or do you just belong? My suggestion could be for all brethren of all Constitutions to practice Freemasonry
as a way of life, enjoy the richest inheritance of the human race and give Freemasonry the opportunity to
build its Temples in the hearts of men and among the nations. By this means we shall establish unity,
strength and better understanding among all mankind and participate in making this world a better place to
live in.
R.W. Bro. Lincoln thanked the Master and the
Deputy District Grand Master for their kindness,
for the happy meeting, and their outstanding
hospitality.
The remaining Toasts were of a very high standard
and the meeting closed on a wonderful note of
Peace, of Love and of Harmony. One came away
feeling that this had been an outstanding occasion
and that all present had been enriched by the
experience.
Congratulations, Prince of Wales Lodge.—H.A.M.
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HAWKE'S BAY
A very pleasant little ceremony was recently performed at the bedside of W. Bro. Cecil D. Taaffe. The
occasion was upon the attainment of 60 years' service to Freemasonry by the W. Bro. and a gold bar was
added to his 50-year jewel.
Owing to the strain of attending lodge for the occasion, which may have been too much for the recipient, it
was agreed that Rt. W. Bro. W. E. Bate, P.D.G.M., and the lodge almoner, W. Bro. H. W. Groome, should
duly visit W. Bro. Taaffe and quietly perform the honour.
W. Bro. Taaffe was initiated in Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99 in October 1908. Upon moving to the North
Island in 1920, he joined Lodge Waikaremoana, No. 158, where he passed through the chairs to become
Master in 1927. In 1933 he returned to Hastings where he joined Lodge Haeata, No. 272. He has served his
lodge truly and well ever since. He was over the years a regular attender and a fluent ritualist until the time
has come when age and late nights will not combine.
We wish our W. Bro. a speedy relief from his slight stroke and may he enjoy many more years amongst us.
—Harry W. Groome, Hawke's Bay Almoners' Association, (Chairman).
—————
Almoners of Hawke's Bay have chalked up another "red-letter" day on their calendar.
Last year an annual meeting innovation was the holding of a "get-together" of almoners and their wives,
following the meeting, and this resulted in a lot of friendships being made, and many of the almoners and
their wives met for the first time. It was so successful that it was unanimously decided to make it an annual
function.
If anything, the second of these gatherings held in Napier on 2 November (they alternate between Napier and
Hastings), was an even greater success than the first, and the value of the gathering was firmly established.
Some 50 almoners and their wives gathered for the day at 11 a.m., when the annual meeting started. While
this was in progress, the ladies were taken for a tour of the Botanical Gardens with its kiwi and peacocks,
and on their return to the lodge refectory at 12.30 p.m. a "picnic lunch" to which all had contributed a
sandwich or two—or three was indulged in—buffet style.
Lunch over, a trip was made to watch the dolphins and sea lions go through their paces in the Marineland of
New Zealand and a tour was also made of the aquarium and rose show which was on at the time.
Back at the refectory cocktails were followed by a dinner at which special guests were the outgoing Prov.
G.M., Rt. W. Bro. Andy Dysart, and his successor,
V.W. Bro. Len Webb. Dinner was followed by an
entertainment at which the chief performer was Bro.
Vic Viggers, one of the leading comedians of the
Dominion. Auld Lang Syne at 9.30 p.m. ended a
memorable day.
Another "first" was also decided on at the annual
meeting, and that was to hold the February meeting
of the Association at Taupo. This will be the first
time that any of the Association's meetings have
been held outside Napier or Hastings. The February
meeting will again allow wives to meet. They will
be the weekend guests of Lodge Tauhara ladies, and
after their meeting in the afternoon, the almoners
will attend the regular meeting of Lodge Tauhara.
Lodge Tauhara's almoner, Bro. Kurt Freundlich, has
assured the visitors that he will leave a fish or two
in the lake for a Sunday (s)troll, after the overnight
stay in Lakeland.
————
WELLINGTON
OBITUARY
R.W. BRO. T. H. SHERWOOD, P.G.W.
On 13 August 1968 the Craft suffered a loss of one of its stalwarts for many years in the passing to the G.L.
above of R.W. Thomas Henry Sherwood, P.G.W. well known throughout the Wellington District and
especially so in the Hutt Valley.
When our late Bro. ceased labour he did so in every sense of the word, both literally and symbolically. His
life was one of outstanding active service, for virtually from the moment of his joining the Craft until several
months before was his death he was actively engaged in some form of service to his brethren.
R.W. Bro. Sherwood was initiated in Waiwhetu Lodge, No. 176, on 14 March 1917, and immediately after
his raising in June 1917 he left the Dominion for service overseas in World War I. On his return he quickly
assumed office in the Lodge and was installed as W.M. on 9 October 1929.
At the termination of his Mastership he continued to be active in office, serving as Treasurer from 1944 to
1947, Secretary from 1947 to 1966 and Assistant Secretary from 1966, a position he held at the time of his
death. He was honoured by Grand Lodge in 1948 when he was elected G.Std.B. and promoted to the honoris
causa ranks of P.G.D.C. in 1954 and P.G.W. in 1966, having in the meantime been a member of the Board of
General Purposes in 1958-59. On 14 July 1967 he received further honour from Grand Lodge with the award
of a 50-year service badge.
R.W. Bro. Sherwood was also an active and valued member of Lower Hutt Rose Croix Chapter, No. 279,
having been installed as M.W.S. in 1949 and elevated to the 31° in 1966.
Outside the Lodge our esteemed Bro. was active in the work of the Almoners' Association and was one of
those responsible for the founding of the Hutt Valley Branch. In this field. R.W. Bro. Sherwood as a
foundation member of Lodge Sincerity, No. 351, was also for many years the Almoner of that Lodge.
Many P.M.s, not only of Waiwhetu Lodge but others Lodges in the Hutt Valley, will be mindful of the
advice and assistance which was alway readily forthcoming from this outstanding Bro. from his wealth of
knowledge of Craft administration and the high example he set in everything he undertook which should be a
pattern worthy of emulation.
No better tribute could be paid and none more fitting from all those whose good fortune it was to be
associated with our late Bro. than that simple phrase, "Well done thou good and faithful servant".
—————
1958 MASTER'S ASSOCIATION—TENTH ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATIONS
The 1958 Masters met for their annual meeting and reunion dinner at the beginning of October, but the main
celebration was the working of a third degree by courtesy of the W.M., W. Bro. C. Balmforth, and brethren
of Lodge Kotuku, No. 392, who sponsored an emergency meeting for the purpose. The date was Saturday 19
October and about 25 Wor. brethren of 1958 vintage were present with apologies either by letter, wire and
even cable, from 21 others.
The chair was occupied by W. Bro. Rev. J. W. Walton, P.G.P., 1958 Master of Lodge Kotuku, and the other
offices were occupied by S.W., W. Bro. M. Clapham, Westminster, No. 308; J.W., Rt. W. Bro. H. Thom,
Prov. G.M.; Chaplain, W. Bro. N. Strachan, Coronation, No. 127; S.D., W. Bro. D. Abbott, Sincerity, No.
351; J.D., W. Bro. R. Dixon, Te Rima, No. 394; I.G., W. Bro. R. Ryan, Wairarapa, No. 238; Tyler, W. Bro.
G. Guise, Hinemoa, No. 122; D.C., W. Bro. D. Rowland, St. Matthew, No. 355, and various charges were
given by W. Bros. W. Andrews, Taia, No. 229, C. Hudson, Waterloo, No. 13, H. Mander, William Ferguson
Massey, No. 282, Stan Divers, Masterton, No. 19, G. Kemp. Friendship, No. 353, F. Hamilton, P.G.S.,
Lower Hutt, No. 299, Allan MacPherson, Rongotai, No. 399, and Bob Kennedy. Whetu-Kairangi, No. 201.
The new president, W. Bro. A. Naish, Waiwhetu, No. 176, was absent in Australia—the other officers of the
association remain the same.
A good number of visitors were present at this meeting and in the refectory afterwards W. Bro. C. Balmforth
complimented those who had taken part. Rt. W. Bro. E. A. Sargent, Prov. G.M. of that year was to have been
organist for the meeting but had to be away in Taranaki at the time.
The friendships and spirit of goodwill engendered
in that year in the chair are still very evident in this
1958 Master's Association and this meeting was an
excellent way of being able to show it in a
particular way for their tenth anniversary. —John
W. Walton, 45 Kapiti Cres., Titahi Bay, Hon.
Secretary.
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AID TO EDUCATION
Over the past eighteen months a series of
programmes have been arranged in Jellicoe Lodge,
Petone, in lieu of degree workings, to provide
candidates and younger members to acquire
subsequent instruction as to the background of the
regular ceremonies.
Copies are being made available at a modest charge
to lodges, the funds going to the Wellington
Masonic Association to help towards Stage II of the Woburn Village project.
Worshipful Masters, Secretaries, or others acting for lodges, should apply to the Secretary, Jellicoe Lodge,
No. 259, Porutu St., Lower Hutt.
—————
INTERESTING FILM
By courtesy of R.W. Bro. Sir Edwin Hicks, P.G.W. (N.S.W.), and at present High Commissioner for
Australia in New Zealand, a most interesting film "Chains of Circumstance", covering some of the
operations of the F.B I. (Freemasons' Benevolent Institute) of New South Wales has of recent time been
shown in the Wellington area. An excellent production in colour, and with a well done commentary, the
theme could very well have equal application in New Zealand.
Unfortunately, the loan from Sydney was only for a few short weeks, but during this period maximum use
was made of it. Firstly at the annual meeting of the Weilington Masonic Association, this viewing prompted
request from those in attendance for its exhibition in the refectories of a number of lodges and Chapters.
————
WELLINGTON DISTRICT ALMONERS' ASSOCIATION
VISIT TO LODGE WATERLOO, No. 13
Almoners from the Wellington Association paid a formal visit to Lodge Waterloo, No. 13, on Monday 14
October. This is believed to be the first occasion in Wellington that Almoners have visited as an Association.
Appropriately, the visit coincided with the working of a First Degree.
Forty members of the Association attended. Their President, R.W. Bro. J. R. Houston, P.G.W., apologised
for the unavoidable absence of the Association's Chairman, V.W. Bro. T. R. M. Wallace, P.G.D.C.
A tribute to the work done by Almoners was paid by W. Bro. C. A. Hudson, P.M. His text is reproduced.
"Research has shown that people are motivated to work by money with which to pay for their basic needs;
satisfaction from the job they do and an appreciation of its importance to society; the social status that
accrues from their work; and for a few by a sense of fulfillment of their aspirations.
"For many fulfillment is not achieved, at least in the work situation. Some extend their activities beyond their
daily avocation and seek fulfillment through some socially acceptable organisation.
"If Freemasonry is such an organisation it can offer its members many attractive features. One such feature is
promotion to high office. By rising to eminence in the Craft men may fulfill through Freemasonry something
that they may have been denied in their work.
"Be that as it may there are many Freemasons who seek nothing more than the joys that disinterested
friendship gives. These pleasures may be enjoyed merely through the company of men of moral substance
that make up a Lodge.
"Such men come from all walks of life and of the many attractive features about the Craft this is perhaps its
most unique. Not only does it appeal to men of diverse backgrounds; it is attractive to men of all age groups.
"Young men mix with old men who temper the exuberance of youth with the conservatism of experience.
Older men recall the days of their Masonic youth and speak of the widows of their former brethren. The
healthy speak of their less fortunate brethren in hospital. The more fortunate speak of those in indigent
circumstances.
"But amongst us there are some who make it their personal responsibility to look well to the needs of our
suffering brethren or widows. It is these men and the work they do on behalf of their Lodges that we honour
tonight and we are grateful for the opportunity.
"To relieve the distressed, to visit the sick, to care for the aged, to comfort the bereaved is a duty incumbent
on all men but particularly Freemasons who are linked together by a bond of brotherhood.
"While it is the pleasure of a Master and his officers to see to the care of their Brethren, it is the special duty
of the individual Almoner to help the officers. Thus the work of a Lodge Almoner is primarily to serve his
own Lodge. In this connection any claim for assistance or for bedside comforts, as well as the responsibilities
of visiting must rest on the Lodge.
"Until 1946 there was no office in a Lodge with the specific over-sight of sick and distressed brethren. At the
Annual Communication in that year the office of Lodge Almoner was created by Grand Lodge, ranking
between Assistant Director of Ceremonies and Organist.
"In Auckland the potential value of a combined Lodge Almoners' Association was first realised and one was
formed there in 1947. Christchurch followed in July 1948, Wellington in 1951, Dunedin and Southland in
1952 and other districts soon followed.
"Almoners' Associations led naturally to the formation of the Masonic Charitable Trusts to extend the work
of Masonic benevolence into those fields beyond the scope of Almoners.
"Then in 1967 the office of Grand Almoner was created by the Annual Communication. It was awarded to
M.W. Bro. Wilfrid Wright, P.Pro. G.M., who in 1946 had successfully sponsored the office of Almoner and
in 1947 had formed the first Almoners' Association. We note that the first Almoners' Association is this year
21 years of age.
"Tonight we pay tribute to the Wellington District Almoners' Association. We have heard in the Charity
Change the obligations that devolve on Freemasons, and we observe in our company men who devote their
time and give of their judgment in the care of the needy. These are scarcer resources than money.
"It is fitting to note that our candidate this evening has devoted his life to the welfare of others and daily
practices those things we profess to admire in his daily avocation as Deputy Superintendent of the
Wellington Free Ambulance Association. It is fitting, too, that the Charge after Investiture should have been
given by his Superintendent.
"Those who have experienced at first hand the work of the Almoners would say that if it is more blessed to
give than to receive, then our Almoners ought to have achieved a personal fulfillment from the Masonic
work they are doing for their Lodges.
"More importantly, they are applying the principles of Freemasonry in a more tangible way than most of us
are able to do. We welcome this opportunity to honour them for their work. Long may it continue."—C.A.H
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Banners of all kinds available from
Regalia House
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DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF WELLINGTON, E.C.
ADDRESS BY THE R.W. DISTRICT GRAND MASTER, R.W. BRO. T. V. ANSON
The annual communication of D.G.L. is an opportunity to assess the progress of Masonry in our District and
for the administrators to account for their Stewardship in the past year. Facts and figures have been put
before you giving picture of the financial and statistical position. Our ancient ceremonial has been observed
and new appointments have been made to District Grand Lodge Office. All this is traditional and indeed
essential if the Craft is to run as a responsible body democratically elected and controlled. I feel, however,
that, important as these ceremonies and reports are, there are other more important matters that should be
discussed at these meetings. I, as D.G.M., am given an opportunity to address you and will have a few words
to say. in a moment but, before doing so, I would like to point out that the three occasions on which I rise to
inquire whether any brother has aught to propose for the good of Freemasonry in general and this D.G.L. in
particular are not merely a convenient method of inviting our guests to give greetings but mean what they
say and provide an opportunity for members of D.G.L. to speak on any aspect of the Craft which they feel
should be discussed.
There is no doubt that in the 250 years that the Grand Lodge of England has been in existence Masonry has
made more astounding progress than any of our ancient Brethren could have imagined at the time. From four
lodges to over 8,000 in 250 years is certainly progress. However, we are more concerned at this time as to
progress in our immediate era, which is a changing one. Are we adapting ourselves to a changing world, or
could I put it in the language of our modern youth, are we on the square or just square. For our very
existence we cannot live in the past and we must attract the young men to become Masons. There are so
many attractions today that it is essential that the real value of Masonry should be able to be emphasised. We
are still looked upon as a secret society, which, of course, up to a point we are, but while there are certain
secrets which every brother knows must be kept inviolate, there are many of our beliefs and practices that
should not be kept secret.
We believe in God, although we don't attempt to specify him and we call him T.G.A.O.T.U. There should be
no secret about this and that is an appeal to the type of youth we want. We believe in the practice of charity.
There should be no secret about that. We believe in a strict observance of the moral love and obedience to
civil regulations. All of these are things that are not only not secret but should, on the other hand, be publicly
announced if we are to counteract the unfortunate impressions of many people that we are merely a society,
meeting for social pleasures.
For example, will our womenfolk say, "My husband is a Mason and I am proud that he belongs to such a
fraternity," or will she say, as I heard it said not so long ago, "My husband was a Mason. I don't know what it
was all about but he obviously enjoyed his nights out and I wouldn't advise my son to join that sort of
society."
Brethren, our very existence as a force for good in this world can be undermined by adverse public opinion
and we can play our part in advancing the welfare of our Craft by example in our conduct and by education
in promulgation of our true aims.
I would like to pay a tribute to the work in the last year of the D.G.L. officers and to welcome those new
officers whom I have invested tonight. I have already expressed our pleasure at the presence with us of R.W.
Bro. Blight and his G.L. officers. I sincerely hope they have enjoyed our proceedings and will continue to do
so in our refectory.
I now touch on another matter. In July next year I will have completed 10 years as your D.G.M. This is a unit
of time familiar now to this country and I feel that it is right that the Brethren should give consideration as to
whom they will recommend to the M.W.G.M. as my successor. May I suggest that during the coming year
this matter be discussed and that your views be sent to the D.G. Secretary.
I thank you for your attendance and also may I express appreciation of the work done by United Manawatu
Lodge to make this meeting such a happy one.
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NELSON - MARLBOROUGH
PRESENTATION OF FIFTY-YEAR SERVICE BADGE
In what was a very moving ceremony and an object
lesson to all young Freemasons, at the Regular
Meeting of Lodge Victory, No. 40, R.W. Bro. J.
Baird, Pro. G.M., Nelson-Marlborough, presented
W. Bro. A. B. Baggett, P.G.D., of Waitohi 111, with
his 50-year Service Badge. Victory is W. Bro.
Baggett's Mother Lodge.
R.W. Bro. Baird said he knew of no brother who
would be more entitled to this Service Badge than
W. Bro. Bagget, for he had given loyal and faithful
service to the Craft for all that fifty years. Owing to
his calling, W. Bro. Baggett, for many years could
not take office, but on his retirement from the sea,
he affiliated with Waitohi, No. 111, and eventually
became Master at the age of 73 years, an office he
filled for two consecutive years. The Pro. G.M. said
that he was Master of Victory at the same time and
W. Bro. Baggett was a tower of strength to him and
he received some very sound advice from him. The
Pro. G.M. placed W. Bro. Baggett in the Chair of
Honour.
In proposing his toast in the Refectory, R.W. Bro.
Baird in a lighter vein spoke of many Masonic
experiences they had had together and that W. Bro. Baggett had been a loyal and faithful Grand Lodge
Officer to him.
In reply, W. Bro. Baggett in thanking the Pro. G.M. said he had enjoyed his fifty years in Freemasonry and
that from the beginning he has endeavoured to understand what Free-Masonry is, and he was willing at all
times to help and advise young Freemasons and he also explained a novel way of learning ritual, which
anyone knowing our worthy Brother, certainly has proved successful as far as he is concerned.
Our congratulations to W. Bro. Bert, and may he still have many happy years to wear the honour bestowed
on him. —Contributed by Bro. C. H. E. Harris, P.O. Box 45, Picton.
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CANTERBURY
ORATION DELIVERED AT THE CONSTITUTION AND
DEDICATION OF LODGE AWHINA, No. 439,
BY V.W. BRO. L. D. J. SMITH, G.LEC.
When I look upon this assembly before me my thoughts cannot help but turn back to the first words of the
133rd Psalm which were read during the ceremony. "Behold how good and joyful a thing it is, brethren to
dwell "in unity". Indeed, it is a precious thing.
Tonight a wonderful event in Freemasonry has taken place—a new lodge has been created. We have been
privileged to witness the evidence of this creation, its constitution and dedication and shortly the first Master
will be installed and the officers invested. This is a time of great joy being the culmination of many months
of thought and planning and effort. A group of brethren bound together by the common tie of Freemasonry,
with one common object in mind, has been crystallised into an entity—a force for all that is good has come
into being—a Masonic lodge has been constituted.
Masonry has been described as the art of building and in its operative sense is concerned with the erection of
material structures. Out of this operative masonry has been developed speculative masonry as we brethren
know it. Speculative masonry has applied the principles of the operative art to the building of character and
just as King Solomon's temple was built on the mighty rock of Mt. Moriah, so should the character of an
individual be built on a foundation as firm, as solid and as enduring.
We are each a temple of God and our soul is housed in a material body. As our body develops we are taught
to build our character by the selection of suitable thoughts and actions. You the foundation members of this
new lodge have laboured long and well in its construction. I would hope that you have laid your foundations
firm and solid, that you have constructed your pillars, beams and other supporting devices with the strength
of laminated construction, that process whereby layer is laid upon layer, the whole attaining unity by a
bonding material to form a unit of immense strength. The materials available to you were the Masonic
principles we know so well, brotherly love, relief, truth, fortitude, fidelity, faith, hope and charity and so
forth all bonded together by the brotherhood of man, the quality of manhood of the brethren and the love of
God. Those were your materials and only by their use would you be able to support a superstructure strong
enough to withstand all the forces of evil. Just how strong your lodge will be will depend on the strength of
your individual members, what use you have made of these materials and how you have used the bonding
substance.
A lodge has been formed and it has been constituted but it still requires certain essential qualities which will
set it apart from all other lodges, qualities which will be acquired only during the course of time; those
intangible, indefinable qualities we call tradition, atmosphere and character. The character of your lodge will
depend upon your actions, brethren, and upon the type of member you attract to your ranks.
You have named your lodge. You have chosen the name Awhina, a name synonymous with sustenance, help
and sympathy arising out of conditions of utter desolation, destruction and misery. The events which gave
place to the usage of Awhina took place during the Tarav‘era eruption. The Maori people living around the
lakeside were deprived of their homes, their lands and their foodstuffs by the disaster, but the adjoining tribe
willingly gave of their land and stocks of food to those who had been stricken. This action was known as
Awhina which you will see by your programme has been defined as, "All embracing in giving sustenance
and help".
How appropriate it is that you have selected this name, one entirely associated with and indelibly imprinted
on the history of this land. But in doing so you have irretrievably committed yourselves to practice
everything which the name implies, the necessity of rendering sustenance and help to all in need. You cannot
lightly adopt a name of such significance without assuming the responsibilities and obligations associated
with it, and so long as Lodge Awhina retains its charter, the name inscribed thereon will be a silent but
constant reminder of these obligations.
Your lodge has been formed, constituted, named and dedicated. It has been dedicated to all that stands for
good, it has been dedicated to everything that speculative masonry represents. In a most moving ceremony
we have heard the Grand Master dedicate the lodge to virtue, to universal benevolence, to peace and
unanimity and to the honour and glory of the Most High. We witnessed during the ceremony the use of the
Masonic elements of consecration, Corn, Wine, Oil and Salt, symbols dating back to antiquity.
In Psalm 104 we read the words: "Praise the Lord, O my soul: O Lord my God, thou art become exceeding
glorious; thou art clothed with majesty and honour. He bringeth forth grass for the cattle: and green herb for
the service of men: That he may bring food out of the earth, and wine that maketh glad the heart of man: and
oil to make him a cheerful countenance, and bread to strengthen man's heart."
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The Third Book of Moses called Leviticus ii 13 states: "And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou
season with salt: neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the convenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat
offering: with all thine offerings thou shalt offer Salt."
We are all temples of God, and the brethren who have founded this Lodge have by the very ceremony of its
dedication been themselves re-dedicated—re-dedicated to everything that is represented in Masonry. They
have been re-dedicated to the fight against evil. Man, with all his opportunities, is still subject to the strong
forces of passion, prejudice and intolerance which cause him to force his will upon others and commit such
atrocities as are almost beyond belief. Never has this re-dedication been so vital as it is today.
The seed of an idea has been sown and out of it has grown a lodge now constituted and dedicated. Brethren
of Lodge Awhina you now have your destiny in your hands. The way is clear and I would exhort you in
these familiar words, "to go forth into the world in peace, to be of good courage, to hold fast to that which is
good, to render no man evil for evil, to strengthen the faint hearted, to support the weak, to help the afflicted,
to honour all men, and to love and serve God."
Brethren, when we look upon this assembly and reflect upon the ceremony and experience our feelings of
pride and humility, we realise indeed how good and joyful a thing it is to dwell in unity.
————
INSTALLATION OF PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
OF CANTERBURY,
RT. W. BRO. L. C. H. SUCKLING
The Installation took place in Christchurch recently of Rt. W. Bro. Leonard Caldwell Hunter Suckling, as
Provincial Grand Master of Canterbury. Rt. W. Bro. Suckincg was initiated in Cashmere Lodge in 1945 and
became Master of his Lodge in 1954. After holding positions in Prov. Grand Lodge, he became an Asst.
Prov. G. Master.
The ceremony of Installation was conducted by Most W. Bro. J. S. Hawker, Past Grand Master, and he was
assisted by Grand Lodge Officers.
The Grand Secretary, V. W. Bro. P. J. Oliver, was present and read the Commission of Appointment.
After the ceremony, the new Prov. G. Master was invested with the Binns Memorial Jewel by Most W. Bro.
A. H. C. Cavell, P.G.M. This jewel is an historical one in Canterbury and is held by the Provincial Grand
Master while he remains in office.
The address to the Prov. G. Master was given by the Immediate Past Prov. G. Master, Rt. W. Bro. J. W.
Vivian.
In the refectory Rt. W. Bro. E. J. Butcher extended the congratulations and good wishes of the brethren to Rt.
W. Bro. Suckling on his appointment to such an important office. He said that the installation was a great
event in Canterbury and enabled the brethren to have complete faith in the future Rt. W. Bro. Butcher said
that he was well satisfied that Rt. W. Bro. Suckling would lead the Craft in Canterbury in accordance with
the best traditions.
Rt. W. Bro. Butcher gave some details of the career of Rt. W. Bro. Suckling, and mentioned that he had been
Chairman of the New Zealand Footwear Federation.
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VISIT OF FIRST GRAND PRINCIPAL TO
SOUTH CANTERBURY
M.E. Comp. Arthur Hendry, First Grand Principal, paid an official visit to the Chapters in South Canterbury
at the meeting of Timaru R.A. Chapter, No. 15, on Wednesday 6 November 1968. He was received by R.E.
Comp. L. D. J. Smith, Grand Superintendent of the Canterbury District.
The First Grand Principal was accompanied by M.E. Comp. R. Hepburn, P.G.Z., R. E. Comp. A. T.
Saunders, P.G.T., R. E. Comp. M. N. Swap, P.G.T., R.E. Comp. S. W. M. Smith, P.G. Lee., V.E. Comp. E. J.
Butcher, P.G.D.C., and other V.E. Companions. The District Grand Chapter of England was represented by
V.E. Comp. Quantock. Apologies were received from M.E. Comp. A. B. Christensen, P.G.Z., R. E. Comp. J.
S. Hawker, P.G. Supt., R.E. Comp. T. T. Eade and others.
The officers of the Timaru R.A. Chapter worked the Mark Degree assisted by the officers of Waimate
Chapter, No. 16, and Temuka Chapter, No. 83.
In the Refectory the Toast of the First Grand Principal was proposed by V.E. Comp. J. A. Sligo, P.G. Soj.
M.E. Comp. A. J. Hendry in his reply, gave a short talk on the History and Symbolism of the Mark Degree
and then quoted figures showing how Rose and Thistle Chapter, No. 35 and the Timaru, Waimate and
Temuka Chapters had maintained their membership over the years in spite of the general fall in membership
among the Chapters. This was particularly creditable in the case of Waimate Chapter which has only one
Craft Lodge from which to draw candidates. He expressed his pleasure in being present in his official
capacity as First Grand Principal. He had attended the Chapters in South Canterbury over a number of years,
first as Grand D.C., and later as Grand Superintendent of Canterbury. He wished the Chapters well for the
future.
The Toast of the Visitors was responded to by the First Principals of Waimate and Temuka Chapters.
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OTAGO
With the Installation Ceremony of Lodge St. John on Saturday 16 November Rt. W. Brother W. W. Mundy,
Prov. G.M. of Otago, and his Grand Lodge Officers will have completed their year of active office and all
can look back on a successful and, to Otago Brethren, profitable association between Grand Lodge Officers
and themselves.
On Wednesday night, 6 November, W. Bro. Logie, Master, welcomed a large and very representative
number of visitors and his last official act was to welcome Rt. W. Brother W. W. Mundy, Prov. G.M. and his
Grand Lodge Officers and hand W. Bro. Mundy the G. for the purpose of installing his successor, Bro. J. G.
Will, and investing the newly elected Officers of Lodge St. Ciair, No. 246.
Having now come to the near end of their active year the ceremony was, as always expected, carried out with
the dignity and smoothness associated with Grand Lodge. During the evening mention was made that the
occupation of the newly installed Wor. Master may have had some influence on the large attendance and it
was most gratifying to find that Brethren could put into effect within the Craft some of the good learned in
everyday life and this evening must be very pleasing to all present with a very large number of W. Brethren
present for the Board of I.M. and an extremely large number of Brethren paying attention tc the Address to
The Brethren showing that advertising must pay and to those who are not acquainted with W. Bro. Will he is
on the staff of our morning daily newspaper.
In replying to the toast to the Prov. G.M., Bro. Mundy thanked the Brethren of Otago who had supported him
during the year and this evening with some 25 Grand Lodge Officers an attendance of over 60 W.M.s and
P.M.s and approximately 100 M.M.s with generous support during this last very busy month of installation
meetings he was more than proud tc be the Prov. G.M. and he invited the proposer of the toast to visit his
home and explain to Mrs Mundy just what Granc Lodge Officers were expected to do during their year of
office. In conclusion, Brethren, W. Bro. Mundy wished one and all the compliments of the season.—J.B.
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