The Craft Goes Forward
Once more the Members of Grand Lodge have experienced the moving ceremonial of the Grand Installation.

On 27 November, shortly before most lodges went into recess, R.W. Bro. His Excellency Sir Arthur Espie

Porritt, Bt., G.C.M.G., K.C.V.O., C.B.E., Governor-General of New Zealand, was installed as Grand Master.

As is usual when the Governor-General is Grand Master a Pro. Grand Master was also installed. He was

R.W. Francis William Pringle, Past Provincial Grand Master of the Wellington District. Both these Brethren

immediately and ex officio assumed the title Most Worshipful. A Deputy Grand Master was inducted—R.W.

Bro. Gordon C. Sim. The Grand Master then announced the names of the Provincial Grand Masters who

were invested; the Grand Wardens who were invested and inducted, and the other appointed and elected

officers for the year. Those present were duly invested.

It was a fine and impressive ceremony, splendid with bullion and blue, conducted with great dignity and

decorum in the presence not only of the Brethren of the New Zealand Constitution but of distinguished

representatives of other Constitutions, some from overseas. Primus inter pares for the night, V.W. Bro. Percy

H. Hartnett, G.D.C., discharged admirably his responsibility for controlling that part of the work not directed

from the Chair, and Organist. Heralds and a Choir contributed to the success of a notable and memorable

occasion.

It is all over now, and it will remain in the memory of those privileged to have been there as a notable

occasion in the history of the Craft.

Altogether a good many individual Freemasons, apart from the Grand Master, the Pro. Grand Master, the

Deputy Grand Master, the 13 Provincial Grand Masters, and the Grand Wardens assumed responsibility for

some share of the conduct of the general work of Freemasonry in New Zealand. There are two Grand

Chaplains, a Grand Treasurer, and a Grand Registrar; there is a President of each of the two Boards. The

larger Districts have Assistant Provincial Grand Masters—there are 11 of them. By prerogative the Grand

Master appointed nine Grand Lecturers. Each District has a Grand Director of Ceremonies, and five Brethren

hold the rank of Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies. There is a Grand Superintendent of Works and a

Grand Almoner, there are four Grand Deacons, two Grand Bible Bearers, two Grand Sword Bearers, two

Grand Standard Bearers; there is a Grand Organist and there are two Grand Pursuivants. The list of Grand

Lodge Officers is concluded by 48 Grand Stewards and a Grand Tyler.

There are in addition to the Members of the Board of General Purposes and the Board of Benevolence

specifically provided for by the Book of Constitution. 28 elected members of each: and the Installation

Programme lists also the distinguished Brethren who, during the year, are to serve on the Juridical

Committee of whom there are three, and as Trustees of Grand Lodge Funds and Property of whom there are

five.

Some of these offices require great devotion and hard work; some, for their proper discharge, require

outstanding ability. Some are largely honorific, but yet require considerable time and an increased attendance

on Masonic occasions. Those Brethren listed as Members of the Boards, although often enough they are or

have been prominent elsewhere in the Craft, receive no jewel and no special collar, and an infinitesimal

small share of the spotlight, but their work ranks among the most important contributions made to the Craft.

This year none is below the rank of Past Master: it would not be inappropriate if the old habit of wearing a

Past Master's collar and jewel were to be resumed by these Brethren. The right to wear such a jewel is not

confined to the Immediate Past Masters of Lodges.

The music and the proclamations, the processions and the Grand Honours, all direct attention to the dignity

and high importance of Freemasonry. The Craft is not dignified nor has it any importance simply as the

reason for ceremonial spectacles. The whole ceremony of Grand Installation subserves the simple purpose of

the Craft as a peculiar system of morality, founded on allegory and illustrated with symbols. The work of the

Craft is directed towards certain ends, which may be summed up as the improvement of its members and the

extension of their beneficient influence throughout the community. It is essentially for these purposes that

Freemasonry makes its claims on the time and talents of certain members of the community; some of them

among the busiest and most important in other spheres. This great array of leaders is supported by the

Masters and officers of hundreds of lodges, by all who have held rank in the past and are still active, by the

throng of Freemasons whose preferment has not yet taken them into junior office or who have no interest in

office; but whose Concern and interest and attendance, and often enough whose work in other ways

contribute to the common objective.

For statistics one must go to the Book of Proceedings, but it is evident that the Craft in New Zealand today is

a big concern. Of course there are membership losses and attendance failures, and of course objectives are

hard to obtain. Nothing worth doing is easy. There is little evidence that there are many who have joined us

who have ceased to be proud of their membership. We do not make a great show in public, but quietly the

work of the Craft goes on, and it is known in the community that a man who is a Freemason may be relied on

as a concerned and helpful sort of person with a sense of fair play. While that is the position there will be

little new to the newly-installed Master of any of our lodges when he is formally addressed: these are the

qualities that the Craft expects in its Masters and in each of its members as well, "so that the world may

know that he is one to whom the burdened heart may pour forth its sorrow, to whom the distressed may

prefer their suit; whose heart is expanded by benevolence and whose hand is guided by justice".

That people may be able to rely on this is the justification for the Grand Communication, and, indeed, for the

whole of the work of the Masonic Craft.

g g g

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., Epson, Auckland

G. K. W. Page, Flat 2, 394 Eden Rd., Auckland F. G. Ashley, 12 Bank St., Mt Eden, Auckland

James A. Isaacs, Box 13, Mairangi Bay, Auckland.

A CENTURY OF LECTURE-WRITERS

AND RITUALISTS

With the celebration in London this year of the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the founding of

Grand Lodge it may be timely to recall some of the great writers whose work influenced the direction of

Freemasonry in the first century of its existence as an organised body. This article, by Bro. Alfred Knight,

appeared in 1899 and gives a brief pen-picture of some of the men whose work, though growing dim, will

never be forgotten. They were the men who laid the foundations of our present system.

The century which followed the revival of 1717 has proved of vast importance to Freemasonry. During the

seventeenth century the institution was both operative and speculative in its character and it is presumed that

the combination was largely responsible for the lethargy into which it fell. When the eminent architect, Sir

Christopher Wren, retired after the completion of St. Paul's Cathedral the Craft was left without a patron and

in a disorganised condition. The few lodges which survived met infrequently and the ancient traditions of the

Order were barely kept alive.

But four lodges existed in the south of England and all were located in London. During February 1717 a

meeting was held in the old Apple Tree Tavern for the purpose of - reviving Freemasonry. The effort was

successful and a Grand Lodge pro tern was formed, the oldest Mason present being chosen Grand Master pro

tern. At a subsequent meeting, on St. John the Baptist's Day, the Grand Lodge was constituted in due form

and Anthony Sayer was elected Grand Master. The society became speculative only and for a century

proceeded with the work of systematising the scattered legends, interpreting the symbols and creating

suitable lectures.

Rev. Desaguliers

The prime mover in the efforts for a revival and the first Masonic philosopher was the Rev. John Theophilus

Desaguliers. He was born at Rochelle, France, in 1683 and removed to England at an early age with his

father, a French refugee. He received an Oxford education and became a lecturer on experimental

philosophy. He was a close friend of Sir Isaac Newton and soon rose to an eminent position, becoming a

fellow in the Royal Society and receiving degrees and clerical orders. He produced several philosophical

works of note.

Shortly after he became a resident of London, Dr Desaguliers was made a Mason, in the ancient body which

later took the name of "Lodge of Antiquity". He evinced a great regard for the Order and, in the words of Dr

Oliver, "The peculiar principles of the Craft struck him as being eminently calculated to contribute to the

benefit of the community at large, if they could be redirected into the channel from which they had been

diverted by the retirement of Sir Christopher Wren." It was through the efforts of Dr Desaguliers that the

meeting of February 1717 was held and the Grand Lodge formed. His reputation as a scientist secured him

the support of many Brethren of high standing, who assisted him in reorganising the society. He has fittingly

been called the "Father of Modern Speculative Freemasonry".

Dr Desaguliers was elected Grand Master in 1719, and the character of the Order was greatly elevated under

his rule. He was zealous in his efforts to preserve the ancient "Charges of a Freemason", and he is recognised

as the guiding spirit in the "Book of Constitutions" published by Anderson. The latter is accredited with the

early lectures, but it is conceded that they were the combined product of both Desaguliers and Anderson. The

last days of Dr Desaguliers were spent in penury, and he is reputed to have died insane in 1744.

Rev. Anderson

Rev. James Anderson was born at Edinburgh in 1684. He became a Scotch Presbyterian minister, and

assumed a charge in London. He took an active part in Masonic affairs and in 1721 the Grand Lodge

commissioned him to collect and compile the history, charges and regulations of the ancient institutions. The

first "Book of Constitutions" appeared in 1723, and in 1738 a second edition was issued, recording the

transactions of the Grand Lodge from 1717 until that year. He published a "Defense of Freemasonry" in

1730, which proved him to be a deep student of the subject. In the preparation of the Book on Constitutions.

and especially in regard to the lectures and charges therein published, Anderson derived much of his

inspiration from the master mind of Desaguliers. Anderson died at the age of 55.

Martin Clare distinguished himself in literary circles and became a fellow in the Royal Society. He served as

Junior Grand Warden and Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, and was appointed in 1732

to revise the lectures of Desaguliers and Anderson. Much was added to the old work, and a greatly improved

system was produced. The Clare lectures continued in use until about 1770.

Thomas Dunckerley

Perhaps no one has exerted a greater influence upon Masonry than Thomas Dunckerley. He was born in

1724, and entered the navy at an early age, serving for 26 years. On his return to England in 1760 he learned

that his mother had died a few days before. She had made a confession on her deathbed to the effect that

King George II was Dunckerley's father. The story was not made public for some time, however, and the

king never knew of his son's existence. In 1767 the matter was laid before King George III, and, after making

inquiries as to his character, Dunckerley was granted a pension and was given apartments in Hampton Court.

He was also permitted to bear the royal arms.

Dunckerley was made a Mason about the year 1755, and as early as 1757 we have record of an address by

him on the "Light and Truth of Masonry Explained", which attracted attention. He became Master of his

lodge, and was soon after appointed Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire. He held many positions of note

under the Grand Lodge, and was active in the higher bodies. As a reformer and instructor he accomplished

much important work. The lectures of Clare were greatly embellished and improved, and new symbolism

was introduced, the "lines parallel" and the "theological ladder" being among his inventions.

Royal Arch

His greatest work was the reconstruction of the Master's degree and establishment of the Royal Arch. He

approved of the innovation as wrought by Lawrence Dermott of the "Ancient" Grand Lodge, and, after much

labour, succeeded in effecting the change in the "Modern", or regular body. The serious loss sustained in the

Master's degree was replaced to an extent by the symbolism which he introduced. His work far excelled that

of Dermott, and the grade of Master Mason may still be called "Dunckerley's degree". He contributed little to

Masonic literature, a few odes and addresses comprising his work in this direction. A vagrant son caused him

much sorrow in his old age. His death occurred at Portsmouth in 1795.

To William Hutchinson we are indebted for the first philosophical explanation of the symbolism of

Freemasonry. He was a native of Durham County, England, and was born in 1732. He published several

works of fiction and produced three plays, one of which proved successful. He also became well known as

an antiquarian. As Master of Barnard Castle Lodge he compiled a series of lectures which soon attracted

attention. They were finally printed, and the "Spirit of Masonry" still remains a priceless boon to the student

of our mysteries. The true philosophy of the Order is discussed in a rational and scientific manner. Many

editions were published, one of which was edited by Dr Oliver in 1855, accompanied by copious notes.

Hutchinson did much to elevate Masonry in the eyes of the world, and raised the society from a convivial

association to the rank of a school of moral philosophy. He lived to be 82 years of age.

William Preston

William Preston excited an influence for the good of the Craft which is felt to this day. He was born at

Edinburgh in 1742, and was the son of a gentleman of literary tastes. His father gave him a splendid

education, and he pursued a classical course with distinction. At his father's death he became the amanuensis

of Thomas Ruddiman, the linguist, and when the latter died took service with Ruddiman's brother, a printer,

whose books he catalogued. In 1760 he removed to London and became a "corrector of the press" for the

King's printer. He devoted himself to literary pursuits, editing the London Chronicle, as well as writing for

periodicals.

Preston was initiated in 1762 in one of the "Ancient" bodies, but he subsequently went over to a regular

lodge. While Master of Caledonian Lodge he began his Masonic researches, which resulted in his famous

series of lectures. He invited his friends to meet and review his work each week and he thus obtained the

ideas of many Brethren. When he had completed the lecture of the First Degree he held a gala meeting at the

Crown and Anchor Tavern in 1772 bearing all expenses himself. He delivered his oration which met with

universal approval. He embodied it in the first edition of "Illustrations of Masonry" which he published the

same year.

Having met with success thus far, Preston diligently prosecuted the work of the Second and Third Degree,

sending emissaries in many directions and at his own expense to obtain information for his lectures. After

two years of study and application the series was completed and publicly delivered by him at a meeting held

in the Mitre Tavern. Schools of instruction were opened in various places and Preston was in great demand.

His work enhanced the reputation of the society and its scientific feature became more and more pronounced.

His efforts added great dignity to the institution.

His name was enrolled as an honorary member by many lodges and finally the Lodge of Antiquity No. 1

chose him Master. That ancient body prospered in many ways during his term of several years. A dispute

regarding a procession held on St. John's Day, 1777, caused him to be expelled with several others by the

Grand Lodge. It was 10 years before he was reinstated but at that time everything possible was done to atone

for the wrong done him and a grand feast was held in his honour.

He resumed his work for the advancement of Masonry and organised the "Order of Harodim" for the purpose

of propagating his lectures. While the latter are no longer in use their influence has descended through the

systems of Hemming and Webb and the spirit of Preston's work, in a much simpler form, is still found in our

lodge room. Preston left an endowment which provided for an annual reading of his lectures in London and

they are still delivered in their original form. His "Illustrations of Masonry" remains an invaluable reference

book but his other productions were not of importance. Preston died in 1818 and was buried in St. Paul's

Cathedral.

Towards the close of the eighteenth century America produced a great ritualist in Thomas Smith Webb. He

was born at Boston in 1771 and received a good education in that classic city. He became a printer and

bookseller, removing to Albany, N.Y., after serving his apprenticeship. He was initiated in the Rising Sun

Lodge in 1792 and became active in Chapter and Commandery work. In 1797 he published his "Freemason's

Monitor" which still remains an authority in the United States. He simplified the cumbersome lectures of

Preston and arranged and interpreted them differently. While they lack much of the philosophy and science

exhibited by Preston he stands without peer as a Masonic ritualist.

Webb removed to Rhode Island in 1801 and became a member of St. John's Lodge of Providence. In 1813 he

was elected Grand Master of the State of Rhode Island. He took an active part in the organisation of the first

Grand Chapter and did much to further the work of the Knight Templar. He was the founder and organiser of

the American System known as the York Rite. He died in Cleveland in 1819.

This century which contributed so much to the philosophical foundation of Speculative Freemasonry closed

after the union of the Modern and Ancient Grand

Lodges of England in 1813. Dr Samuel Hemming,

the Senior Grand Warden, framed a new system of

lectures which is still in use. Although much

simplified in form there are many changes made

which are to be regretted.

—The West Australian Craftsman

g g g

ACTIONS

A slender acquaintance with the world must convince every man that actions, not words, are the true

criterion of the attachment of friends and that the most liberal professions of good will are very far from

being the surest marks of it. True friendship is a plant of slow growth and must undergo and withstand the

shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation of friendship.—George Washington.

MASONIC ALMONERS' ASSOCIATION, AUCKLAND DISTRICT

AGED MASONS' CHRISTMAS PARTY

The 2 December found the refectory, St. Benedict's Street, filled almost to capacity with about 300 guests

assembled for the annual Christmas luncheon.

The Association chairman, W. Bro. G. F. Betham, P.G.B.B.. made feeling reference to the severe loss

suffered by the Association in the passing of the Grand Almoner and Patron. M.W. Bro. Wilfrid W. Wright,

P.Pro. G.M., who had been active in the movement ever since its inception and whose presence always

imparted a sparkle to the Christmas party. Another sad loss was that of a vice-president, R.W. Bro. C. L.

Shroff. Dist. G.M., United Grand Lodge of England. Brethren stood in silence as a mark of respect and of

sympathy with the relatives of these departed brethren

The Chaplain, Rt. W. Bro. John Dick, P.G.W., asked a blessing and the guests settled down to enjoy the

good things so attractively set out among the floral decorations on the tables. The chairman introduced the

Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. Selwyn Oldham. Other guests of honour were M.W. Bro. John A. Redwood, Past

G.M. and Mrs Redwood. M.W. Bro. Redwood accepted the position of Patron, remarking that his only regret

was the circumstance which had rendered the office vacant.

Other honoured guests included R.W. Bro. Leslie A. Lincoln. Past Prov. G.M.. R.W. Bro. J. G. Erne Adams,

Dist. G.M. and R.W. Bro. C. Rowe, both of Grand Lodge of Scotland, R.W. Bro. W. C. T. Brunton, Prov.

G.M., Grand Lodge of Ireland, W. Bro. I. E. Whale, Deputy Dist. G.M., United Grand Lodge of England,

R.W. Bro. Henry R. A. Vialoux, Past. Dep. G.M., R.W. Bro. G. Rowland Hutchinson, P.G.W. and R.E.

Comp. E. H. Bradstreet, Grand Supt., Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand. An apology was received from

V.W. Bro. Arthur R. White, president, Board of Benevolence.

The musical programme was again in the capable hands of W. Bro. Eric J. Speir, Past Grand Organist. His

performance on a Hammond electric organ was a new and enjoyable feature of the proceedings. Miss June

Trelawney has been entertaining these gatherings for over 20 years with her songs and is a hot favourite.

Another artist who never fails to delight us with his vocal numbers is Tony Rex. Pianist Bro. Jules Regan

accompanied in his usual good style. Mr Magic (Rev. S. R. Goudge, B.A.) introduced a new and interesting

feature, the star turn of which was the growing in smart time of a Christmas tree from a large and colourful

packet of Christmas tree seed assisted by a liberal application of woofle dust. These artists, who give freely

of their time and talent, will never know how much their efforts are appreciated.

M.W. Bro. Redwood thanked the ladies who had been toiling so successfully from an early hour with the

eatables and flowers. The gigantic Christmas cake, decorated with Masonic motifs, was again this year made

and presented by Mrs Farmer, wife of Bro. Farmer of Lodge Wairoa, No. 55. The ceremony of cutting the

cake was carried out by the oldest Mason present, W. Bro. John Cowley, Past Grand Organist, of the Ara

Lodge, No 1, aged 95. This honour fell to W. Bro. Cowley last year also. It is hoped that history will repeat

itself next year when the question would arise. "Do three consecutive wins entitle our beloved old brother to

take the cake".

A surprising number of holders of the 50 years' jewel rose in response to the chairman's request. They were

addressed and congratulated by R.W. Bro. Selwyn Oldham, Prov. G.M. M.W. Bro. Redwood made reference

to the recent award to Bro. V. H. Sommerville of the Order of Service to Masonry and congratulated him on

his outstanding service as secretary for 16 years of the Almoners' Association, Auckland District.

W. Bro. chairman expressed thanks to all who had assisted to make the function such a success. Proceedings

closed with "Auld Lang Syne" and a benediction pronounced by the Chaplain, R.W. Bro. Dick.

————

M.W. BRO: WILFRID W. WRIGHT PASSES ON

Freemasonry in New Zealand suffered a sad loss when in the early hours of the morning of Saturday 9

November last, M.W. Bro. Wilfrid William Wright, P. Pro. G.M., was called to rest in his 89th year.

During 47 years of Masonry he wielded an influence that has seldom been equalled in the history of the Craft

in this country. Indeed he may well have been termed the father of the modern concept of Masonic Charity

and through the long years of his leadership always strove to impress on his fellow Masons the vital need for

benevolent giving. He was the moving spirit in the formation of the Masonic Almoners' Association in

Auckland in 1947 and ever since has remained

closely identified with their work.

In latter years he slipped quietly into the role of the

"Grand Old Man" of the Auckland district and his

many addresses to the brethren at installation

meetings will remain a cherished memory for a long,

long time. The affection of the brethren for their

Grand Old Man was very real and to all he was a

friend, a guide and an inspiration.

He was a member of several lodges in the Auckland

area and many of them have cause to be grateful for

his generosity in time, in money, in advice and in

support. Indeed there are lodges who since their

formation have had no one but M.W. Bro. Wright to

address the brethren at the annual installation since

the formation of the lodge. But saddest of all would

be his mother lodge, United Service, No. 10, where

he remained a member for the entire 47 years.

A Lodge of Sorrow

The lodge decided that it would mark its admiration and affection for our late brother with a Lodge of

Sorrow and this was held on Tuesday 19 November last in the Masonic Hall, St. Benedict's St., a lodge room

in which M.W. Bro. Wright laboured so long and so often.

The room was draped in sombre black when the Master, W. Bro. Frank Cook, with a capacity gathering of

brethren, received the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. J. A. Redwood and over 80 Grand Lodge Officers. Solemn

music by the organist set the atmosphere for the meeting as the Grand Master quietly entered and took his

seat with the remainder of the brethren. In solemn silence an Officer of the Lodge was then admitted bearing

"a tribute", a most beautiful sheaf of pure white gladioli and carnations which he reverently placed in the

empty chair. The Master then opened the Lodge of Sorrow and introduced the Responses thus:

"Brethren, once again the silver cord is loosed, the dust has returned to the earth as it was and the spirit of

Wilfrid William Wright has returned unto God who gave it.

"So we meet tonight for the unhappy purpose of bidding farewell to one who for a while is parted from us.

Our greatly loved brother is called to his great reward and I have asked you all to unite with us in this Lodge

of Sorrow so that as Masons we may take our last and loving leave."

The Panegyric

The Panegyric was delivered by the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Redwood, obviously affected by the occasion,

said:

"Brethren, on this solemn occasion we mourn the loss of a truly great Freemason. Yet we rejoice in our

certain belief that he has been called to the Grand Lodge above to take part in an even more glorious and

fuller life.

"He was great, yet he was humble.

He was great through his work in the interest of our Order for almost 50 years.

"He was great because he was loved and respected by all who were privileged to know him.

"The late M.W. Bro. Wilfrid Wright was born in London in 1880, and came to New Zealand in 1886. He

resided in Auckland throughout the remainder of his long life, and it was in Auckland that he enjoyed his

closest friendships. As a schoolboy, as a youth, and as a man, he entered into the life and activities of his

adopted city with an enthusiasm which marked his whole career.

"He was married in the Unitarian Church in Ponsonby Road in July 1912, to one who was to render him

loyal support for over 50 years.

"His chief interests were cultural, sporting, business and Masonic.

"His cultural and social activities were centred mainly in, the Athenian Club, where he contributed much

over a very long period. He was greatly respected and admired, and after a term as President, was accepted

as one of the pillars of the organisation and elected a life member.

"In the world of sport he claimed active membership of the Ponsonby Rugby Union Club, the West End

Rowing Club and the Carlton Bowling Club. He not only acquitted himself well as a participant sportsman,

but was a leading administrator and was highly honoured in each of the clubs to which he belonged.

"In business he was respected for his integrity and for the high standard of administration and of business

ethics which, as a director, he maintained over a great number of years.

"As a Mason he was incomparable. He was different. He was the same ever-popular Will Wright to the

entered apprentice as to the Grand Master.

"He was initiated in Lodge United Service, No. 10, on 27 August 1921, and in 1928 was installed as Master,

serving a second term in the Chair in 1932. His outstanding work and influence as Master of his Lodge did

not pass unnoticed by the Prov. Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, for in 1934 he was appointed

G.D.C. We can well imagine how efficiently he carried out the important duties of this office, for he was re-

appointed in 1935 and the following year he was favoured with the high office of J.G.W.

"In 1940 and 1941 he was President of the Board of Benevolence, an office he filled with great distinction.

"Four years later he was appointed Prov. Grand Master of the Auckland District, which at that time included

South Auckland and Northland, and demanded extensive travelling by its leader. It was during his two years

as Prov. Grand Master that we came to know his real worth. At a time when even his fellow Grand Lodge

Officers doubted his ability to succeed in the large Auckland District in the shadow of the late M.W. Bro.

Oliver Nicholson, who had become a legend with almost God-like control of Freemasonry in the Northern

part of New Zealand, our Brother not only carried out the work of Prov. Grand Master to the entire

satisfaction of a most critical mentor, but he endeared himself to brethren throughout the whole District.

"In his inimitable, competent, yet humble way, the new Prov. Grand Master soon gained the complete

confidence of the Masters, and the Officers of Grand Lodge. By the end of his all-too-short two-year term of

office, he had been able to reveal himself as a new leader in the Craft, and the following year was appointed

to the important office of Dep. Grand Master.

"By this time R.W. Bro. Wright was acknowledged as one of the outstanding Freemasons in New Zealand,

and in 1953 was further honoured with the exalted rank of Past Pro. Grand. Master.

"As recently as 1967, he was honoured even further when, in recognition of his constant interest in the

charitable work of the Craft, he was appointed the first Grand Almoner in Grand Lodge, and there was

probably no office he cherished more. He was one of the founders of the Auckland Almoners' Association,

and had enjoyed the very special privilege of being its Patron from its inception until the time of his death.

"This outstanding record of service may well be unequalled in New Zealand Masonry, and is indicative of

his ability and his intense interest in the Craft.

"However, it was not altogether what he did that earned for him such unparalleled love and respect, but it

was the way he lived and that indefinable something within him that attracted people to him.

"The G.A. had blessed him in many ways; first perhaps, with a gentle, lovable and engaging personality, and

secondly with a charming, dutiful and most helpful wife. He was a born diplomat and a most able and clever

speaker. He had a sense of humour which persisted even on the most solemn occasions, and he rarely spoke

without in some part of his speech bringing spontaneous laughter from his listeners. Yet always he spoke

with well-governed restraint.

"Those who were present in 1960 when he conducted the ceremony of Installation which was performed in

this very hall by Grand Lodge Officers all over the age of 70 years, will never forget the double and standing

ovation he received in the packed Refectory at the conclusion of his reply to the Toast of Officers of Grand

Lodge, past and present. The occasion was as unique as it was memorable.

"Who will forget, too, his investitures at the Annual . Communications, when he memorised the names of

every Bro. he invested, and performed the investitures immaculately, with a special smile for each recipient.

"And who will forget his earnest exhortations for the aged Masons, widows and orphans fund, with his

famous slogan: 'The cost of a newspaper or id. per day'. He laid the foundation well and truly for the

Auckland District's consistent record subscriptions to this cause.

"M.W. Bro. Wright allowed his Masonic activities to wander with severe moderation. He was installed as

First Principal of the Auckland Chapter, No. 9 in 1935, and was honoured with the rank of P.G.S.N. He was

also a member of the Rose Croix.

"He was not greatly interested in the mechanics and the records of Masonry, but accepted as his sheet anchor

in the Craft the three Grand Principles on which our Order was founded. He could justly be hailed as the

exemplification of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

"He was loved by the Masters of the Lodges for generation after generation, and while he never lost the

common touch, he retained a dignity all of his own.

"He was loved by the ladies for his ready wit and his ever happy smile, and he, with his wife, probably

attended more ladies' nights than any Bro. I have known.

"We thank the G.A. for the life and service of one who glorified in his work and was noble and humble in

attainment.

"Let us then remember the light and love he shed amongst us, and let us see beyond the tears of parting, the

spirit of a true Freemason passing onward to a rich reward.

Before the Public Grand Honours and the closing of the Lodge of Sorrow, the brethren sang Kipling's

"Recessional", and the soaring notes of the grand old hymn left no doubt that the brethren indeed would not

soon forget.

After the Lodge had been closed the Master immediately took the lovely sheaf of carnations and gladioli to

the home of M.W. Bro. Wright's nearest brother—Mr H. B. Wright who with his wife had meant so much to

our later brother. It was a tribute that was gratefully though sorrowfully received.

g g g

Banners of all kinds available from

Regalia House

Tracing Boards available on order from

Regalia House

————

THE GRAND MASTER AT UNITED MASTERS LODGE, No. 167

Another interesting and useful year for this Auckland Research Lodge ended with the installation of the new

Master on Thursday 24 October. The out-going Master, W. Bro. Howard Wyatt, spared no effort during his

year to provide a wide variety of papers and discussions. Of unusual interest were those dealing with the

Board of Installed Masters, the history the Second N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association, and the Craft as viewed by

non-Masons. During the year the Grand Master was received twice and a Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro.

Francis Prideaux, once.

The ancient ceremony of the First Degree (circa 1760) was presented by the Lodge twice, once in Nelson and

finally on Saturday 12 October at the Y.M.C.A. Stadium, Auckland. This was indeed a notable occasion. A

very large attendance of brethren was presided over by R.W. Bro. Arch Burns, P. Dep. G.M.,, senior Past

Master of the Lodge who occupied the chair at the invitation of the Master, W. Bro. Wyatt, who was one of

the brethren concerned in the Exemplification R.W. Bro. Burns then received the Grand Master and with him

over 70 Grand Lodge Officers from Auckland and

South Auckland Districts.

An address explaining the initiation ceremony of

'''The United Lodge of Antiquity, No. O" was

delivered by V.W. Bro. J. P. Glenie, P. Asst. Prov.

G.M. who has been responsible for the production of

the ceremony in many parts of New Zealand. This

added greatly to the understanding by the brethren

of the many strange and unusual aspects of the old

working. During the Exemplification itself, V.W.

Bro. Frank Howarth and his brethren of Antiquity

achieved a standard which amazed the brethren, and

on many occasions had them in gusts of laughter at

the strange old customs.

The Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln, in

expressing the thanks of the brethren to the members

of United Masters Lodge, referred to the great

service the Lodge was giving and to the seven

previous presentations of the ceremony in Auckland

(twice), Whangarei, Hamilton, Hastings, New

Plymouth, and Nelson. He said, "This evening we

have witnessed a delightful ceremony, spectacular in

nature and rich in tradition. The fundamental

principles of the Craft we practice today were clearly discernible in this Exemplification of a ceremony of

200 years ago. . . . From these humble and happy meetings, Freemasonry spread to the four quarters of the

globe. . . . Let us then, by fuller understanding, weld the Craft into a force for good that the world may

recognise and which will reveal a great strength in unity amidst all the turmoil of our modern age."

The Grand Master was then the recipient of a very beautiful set of Grand Master's regalia at the hands of the

three sons of the late M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber, P.G.M. In making the presentation, Bro. R. F. Faber said:

"It is my privilege, in association with my brothers, to present to you this set of regalia which belonged to

our father, the late M.W. Bro. Edgar Oliver Faber, Past Grand Master. The presentation is made on behalf of

the Faber family and with the wholehearted approval of our mother who, for obvious reasons, cannot be

present this evening—much as she would like to be.

"Naturally this regalia which was worn with such pride by our father and which became an outward symbol

of his most fervent belief that Masonry is such a tremendous power for good in the world today, has for us a

high sentimental value. It is, therefore, a matter of much comfort and pleasure to us to know that it will in

future be worn by one whom he held in such high regard and who followed closely in his footsteps, not only

as Grand Master, but also as Chairman of the Northern Masonic Association.

"This presentation is made in recognition and appreciation of the help, support and encouragement which

Edgar Faber received from you in the performance of his Masonic duties and particularly during the building

of the Roskill Masonic Village, which became his first love in the later years of his life.

"Please accept this with our very best wishes and with our prayer that you will be granted many years in

which to wear it with pride and pleasure."

The Grand Master, obviously affected by the terms in which the presentation had been made, acknowledged

it most warmly. He said:

"Bro. Faber, I would not be human if I were not deeply touched by this very wonderful gift from the Faber

family and I hasten to thank you, Bro. Ron and also Bros. Peter and Barry, both of whom have travelled from

Whangarei to support you this evening. I will take the first opportunity personally to thank your Mother, but

in the meantime please convey to her my sincere thanks and appreciation of this significant and valuable

presentation.

"Few indeed were better qualified to assess how much your late father meant to Freemasonry in this country

than I. We became very friendly when we were Masters of our respective Lodges in 1938 and later I had the

privilege of working under his direction as a Grand Steward and for a further two years as his G.D.C. When

he was Grand Master, I was Asst. Prov. G.M. in this district and it was not unnatural that we became very

close friends, both within and without the Craft.

"Masonry in New Zealand is still vibrant from the impact he made in so many directions. Perhaps his

greatest influence was in the promotion of our Charities, and apart from his efforts on behalf of the Grand

Lodge Benevolent Fund, his conception of a home for the aged in Auckland was the inspiration that caused

Masonic Trusts to be formed to further his ideals from Kaitaia in the north to Dunedin in the south.

"He was a fearless, able and enterprising Freemason. He • was humble and gentle, yet firm and was loved

and respected by all who were privileged to know him.

"I cannot adequately describe my feelings in accepting this beautiful set of regalia. I owe a lot to your late

father and I will wear his regalia with pride and I hope with humility. I trust it will be the means of

transmitting a pleasant and profitable association of the past into useful Masonic activities in the future."

The Grand Master then addressed the brethren generally. He first expressed his special thanks and those of

Grand Lodge, to the brethren of the United Master's Lodge who in the last four years had done so much

through the ancient ceremony to stimulate the interest of brethren in so many centres. He expressed his belief

that Masonry has weathered the elements of time and the forces of obstruction until today it stands poised to

g g g

Rose Croix Eagles and Stars in stock at

Regalia House

move forward to still higher and greater goals. "No other organisation," he said, "has so stood the test of time

and adhered to the same basic principles that it could properly be classed as one of the most ancient and

honourable institutions in existence. Masonry has endured in a period when ancient religions are being com-

pelled to accept modification and when science is greatly altering the direction of men's thoughts.

Freemasonry still has its grand old principles and just as it did 200 years ago, it still leads men to a better

conception of the meaning of life and the way it should be lived." He spoke of the outstanding men in all

walks of life, who, attracted by the basic conceptions of a divine belief, and the practice of true Charity, have

clung to our Order; of the inspiration which has led men to build for the Craft, meeting places of unsurpassed

beauty and architecture, hospitals, homes for the aged and in New Zealand even a church.

Concluding a most inspiring address, the Grand Master assured the brethren that Freemasonry in New

Zealand is growing as fast as is compatible with sound administration and proper supervision. He charged

them to ensure that it remained strong and sound and a fitting bulwark against the trials and tribulations that

will surely face us in the years ahead.

————

THE INSTALLATION

The Installation Meeting on 24 October was also a notable occasion. On behalf of the Lodge, the Prov. G.M.,

R.W. Bro. L. A. Lincoln received and welcomed the Grand Master in the presence of a large gathering of

brethren.

In his Valedictory Address, W. Bro. Wyatt traced the

many activities of the Lodge during the year. There

appeared to be no doubt that under the leadership of

the Master, the Lodge's year has been an outstanding

one.

V.W. Bro. A. S. Oldham, P.G.C., a Past Master of

the Lodge, then accepted the gavel and installed the

new Master, W. Bro. J. F. Y. Schischka, M.B.E.,

B.Com., well known as the recently retired

Commanding Officer of R.N.Z.N.V.R. at Auckland.

The new Master then delivered as his inaugural

address a paper on the late M.W. Bro. E. O. Faber

with whom he had been closely associated for a

number of years. This paper will form an invaluable

record of one of the great men the Craft in New

Zealand has known.

After the Installation was completed, the Grand Master on behalf of the Officers and Past Officers of Grand

Lodge in the District, presented to the retiring Prov. G.M., a most attractive set of Grand Lodge regalia

appropriate to his rank. In making the presentation, the Grand Master spoke of the services which R.W. Bro.

Lincoln has rendered to the Craft in this district during the past three years and expressed his thanks for the

work he had done. He told R.W. Bro. Lincoln he would be welcome to the ranks of the Past Prov. G.M.s of

this district, of whom only two survive— M.W. Bro. Wilfrid W. Wright and himself. The Grand Master

indicated also that as the presentation came from every Officer and Past Officer in the area, it was evident

that the Prov. G.M. had earned the goodwill and respect of all.

In warmly acknowledging the presentation, R.W. Bro. Lincoln spoke of the pleasure he had received in

serving the brethren in the district and his very great satisfaction that he was retiring with the esteem of the

brethren with whom he had worked so closely during those years.

In proposing the toast of the Master in Refectory, V.W. Bro. J. P. Glenie traced his distinguished naval

career during the late war and the long period of service which he had since given to the R.N.Z.N.V.R.

"Indeed," said V.W. Bro. Glenie, "service has been one of his guilding principles, not only in the armed

forces, but also in his civilian and in his Masonic life. That service has earned him recognition by Her

Majesty the Queen, respect in private life, and appreciation by the brethren with whom he has worked."

The Master in reply, pledged that he would strive to uphold the standards that his predecessors had set in the

work of the Lodge.

The evening was happily concluded by a colourful reply to the toast of the visitors, by W. Bro. A. McClew,

Master of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 8. In nautical vein he assured the brethren that the new skipper was well

qualified by training and experience to handle his craft under all conditions, to "see that it keeps on course,

avoiding accidental gybes or getting into 'irons', so that it may come safely into harbour after a year's cruise

in the realms of research".

He concluded, "We, your visitors, wish you fair winds and good sailing."—J.P.G.

g g g

“Installing Masters’ Guide” in stock at

Regalia House

————

SOUTH AUCKLAND SOVEREIGN CHAPTER, No. 95,

A. AND A. S. RITE

TRIBUTE TO ILLUSTRIOUS BRO. G. O. ANSTISS, 30°

A framed, illuminated certificate was presented to Ill. Bro. G. O. Anstiss, 30°, at the November meeting of

the South Auckland Sovereign Chapter, No. 95, at Papatoetoe.

V. Ill. Bro. C. A. Rowe, 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector-General, in presenting the certificate on behalf of the

Chapter said that it was to mark the election of Ill. Bro. Anstiss as an Honorary Member in recognition of his

service in many capacities since the Chapter's inception. V. Ill. Bro. Rowe referred to the distinguished

Masonic career of Ill. Bro. Anstiss in many branches of Freemasonry, to his efforts in founding the South

Auckland Sovereign Chapter in 1955, and being its second M.W.S., and to his almost continuous service as

Secretary.

A pleasing number of Illustrious Brethren and M.W.S.s of other Sovereign Chapters in the Auckland and

South Auckland areas were visitors to pay homage to Ill. Bro. Anstiss, who in the refectory gave a moving

account of the formation and early years of the Chapter, during which time it had a struggle to maintain its

membership because of the loss by death or transfer of a disproportionate number of office bearers and

members.

Happily the Chapter is now thriving, with attendances comprising a high percentage of members testifying to

the members' interest in the Chapter.

There were two other items of more than usual interest at this meeting. Congratulations were extended to Ill.

Bro. S. R. McLean on his elevation to the Thirtieth Degree. He is the first member of the Chapter to be

perfected, serve as Most Wise Sovereign and receive the Thirtieth Degree. The other item was the

presentation to the Chapter of a processional cross in hand-worked brass and aluminium by the M.W.S. elect,

who also designed and lettered the certificate presented to Ill. Bro. Anstiss. -

The ceremonial work of the evening was the perfection of Bros. C. S. Raines and E. C. Powell.

—B.C.M.

g g g

OTAGO

W. Bro. E. Tikey, W.M., of Lodge Ionic, No. 191, with no degree work for his Officers since his installation

in July has, with the co-operation of all brethren, endeavoured to maintain interest with the "Exemplification

of the First Degree" at the October meeting, this being a first for our Lodge and another being a picture

evening in the refectory after an early closing of lodge business in September and at the meeting in August

four "lecturettes" were delivered by brethren with the Grand Lecturer, V.W. Bro. D. R. Brickell, giving an

interesting address on the delivery of charges with special reference to the N.E. Charge.

The Christmas season of festivities will have been enjoyed by all by the time these notes are published and

on behalf of W. Bro. E. Tikey, W.M., Lodge Ionic, No. 191, his P.M.s, Officers and Brethren, we hope that

one and all have had a very Happy Christmas and may T.G.A.O.T.U. Bless and Prosper our beloved Craft

during 1969.

On Saturday 16 November 1968 Rt. W. Bro. W. W. Mundy, Prov. G.M. of Otago, accompanied by G.L.

Officers, visited Lodge St. John, No. 84, and installed the newly elected W.M., Bro. E. T. Hudson, and

invested the Officers. V.W. Bro. G. D. King, Asst. Prov. G.M. took an active part in the ceremonies, this

being his mother lodge.

In presenting W. Bro. C. Bowie with his P.M.s certificate, Rt. W. Bro. Mundy mentioned that during the past

lodge year Lodge St. John had done much to create a good Masonic image within Mosgiel by community

activities and had taken a party of brethren from his lodge to entertain the elderly people resident in the

"Maryhill Masonic Cottages" and reports were to the effect that all had thoroughly enjoyed the outing and

the entertainment had been of a high order. In conclusion it was very gratifying to see such a large

attendance present this evening, to honour Lodge St. John. — J.B.