Newsletter - Spring 2012

A ground-breaking new report The Future of Freemasonry has been released by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). It is the first ever independent study conducted by a non-Masonic body, the respected Social Issues Research Centre (SIRC) in Oxford. The release coincided with a national and regional media tour by UGLE Grand Secretary RW Bro Nigel Brown, which included an interview with lunchtime presenter Joanne Malin on local radio station BBC WM. The interview explored many misconceptions about Freemasonry and included phone-ins by local m as on s , a m on g t hem Provincial Grand Master RW Bro David Macey. The report itself dispels many of the commonly held myths and sheds new light on Freemasonry. It suggests that contrary to much misleading commentary, Freemasonry d e m o n s t r a t e s g e n u i n e openness and transparency, and concludes that it is arguably more relevant today than ever before. It has been commissioned as part of the build-up to the UGLE's tercentenary in 2017, and emphasises a variety of

salient points. These are highlighted on our Provincial website, where a full copy of the report can be seen. An abbreviated copy, together with key messages and a media Q&A pack have been sent to all Lodge Information Officers (LIOs).

At the March Quarterly Communication a lively and very informative discourse was given by the Grand Secretary and our public relations advisor, Jessica Bondy. This included an outline of the core and

heartbeat of current strategy and the need for our members to be brought up to date with contemporary thinking, which has started with Provincial Information Officers. The speech can be seen on the UGLE website at www.ugle.org.uk.

All public relations exercises need to have feedback to assess their effectiveness. A snapshot taken just a few days after the release of the report showed an amazing 117 million media highlights. A Media Coverage Highlights book detailing where all these hits came from has been sent to all LIOs.

SIRC report for UGLE

Pantomime successes

People Page

Welcome to both the Royal Arch and the Mark

Festival Celebra-tion sold out

Freemasonry Today and Tomorrow

Proud to Give

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Future is in our hands 3

Birmingham and Coventry Pantos

Festival Events

Festival Update

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People Pages 6

Tylers Table

Organists Opera

Orators Conference

Little Green Book

Days for Knights

Bulgarian Sequel

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Royal Arch

Welcome to the Mark

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Whats On?

Behind the Scenes

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DCs Corner 9

The Heritage Open Days initiative provides us with a ready made opportunity each year to provide people who are not masons with information about Freemasonry in general, and our local activities and community involvement in particular. It is currently promoted under the umbrella of The National Trust, which provides a central

database giving details of all organizations and premises which have registered their particulars, as well as support and guidance to ensure their success. Several of our meeting places take part and individual details are posted to the Provincial website when they are received. So, what better opportunity for our members to give an insight

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to their families and friends by taking or sending them along to their nearest Open Day and showing them around? They usually learn quite a lot themselves too! Its free, its fun and hopefully its a v a i l a b l e near to you.

Why not give it a try?

The Guest Speaker at the March meeting of Warwickshire Installed Masters Lodge 4538 was the Prestonian Lecturer for 2008, W Bro Bob Sillett, whose illustrated talk, Freemasonry Today and Tomorrow was very timely. He opened his lively talk by referring to the SIRC report, which will prompt further public discussion, and pointed out that as we know pretty well where we came from, we really ought focus upon where we were going during the next fifty years. Although membership had declined in recent years Freemasonry was far from being in a perilous state, but ongoing preservation and

development would depend upon our ability to reflect the needs of our society. Self examination, humility and continued adherence to our principles and tenets is vital, as is a modern approach which must embrace and involve our younger members. A glance at the remarkable take-up and success of Freemasonry in Romania since its freedom from political oppression gave a good example, acting as a social glue helping establish high moral standards. Egos should be subdued and pettiness overruled. Bob also highlighted many wise observations and comments, sometimes controversial, made b y s e n i o r b r e t h r e n , acknowledging that Freemasonry is different from 50 years ago, and that it must move with the times. He then went on to present a series of his own very positive suggestions for improving the way in which Freemasonry operated, which demonstrated some very out of the box th inking. These included examining the sociable aspects of Lodges; sharing ritual; cutting

waffle at meetings; involving more technology via social media; cutting the number of Lodges in some areas; encouraging Festivals and large meetings; even examining the hierarchal system in Freemasonry, as well as many more. A full summary can be seen on the Provincial website. A b o ve a l l , p r ac t i s e t he fundamental principles upon which the order was founded. In thanking Bob for his stimulating a n d t h o u g h t p r o v o k i n g presentation the Master, RW Bro David Macey, acknowledged the importance of such lateral thinking, much of which was indeed taking place here in Warwickshire. !

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within their local communities. Our Pro Grand Master has said that of course we should blow our own trumpets in this respect and, whilst Charity may not be our raison detre, it is certainly a most important part of Masonic life of which we should be and are hugely proud. Whilst blowing trumpets might not suit too many of our members, we should all be willing and able to explain the reason for the fanfare.

Freemasons tend to be somewhat reticent when asked about the charitable support they give. But is this reluctance due to modesty or ignorance? We dont think twice about popping a small contribution onto the plate or gift aid envelope when passed round, or sending a cheque or setting up a standing order for the various single or ongoing appeals we receive, as this is one of the core elements of our being Freemasons in the first place.

But the collective totals are huge and enable us to make significant donations to many worthy causes. Did you know for example, that in the UK the amount donated via our four central charities each year is probably second only to the National Lottery? Thats around 20 million for starters. Then there are the donations made by Provinces within their own territories, in Warwickshire around 100k each year. And finally the unknown amount donated by individual Lodges

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The powerful messages coming from London continue to emphasise that we are in full control of our own destiny and how we are going to influence the direction we take through education and public relations. The SIRC report and compre-hensive media campaign undertaken by the Grand Secretary (see lead article) demonstrates our determination to educate the general public, but equally important is the need to educate our own members t h r o u g h t h e m e n t o r i n g programme. '( Mentoring and Public Relations both featured significantly at the March Quarterly Communica-tion, where the Pro Grand Master talked extensively about mentoring and the Grand Secretary about the PR initiative. A common thread, perhaps even a new strapline for us, is the repeated reference to Fun and

Enjoyment. These two simple nouns stand at the pinnacle of our hobby, quickly followed by the principles by which we aspire to it, ie respecting everyone, looking after others and being honest. Transcripts from all Grand Lodge proceedings can be seen on both the UGLE and new Freemasonry Today websites, which can quickly be accessed via the Provincial website.

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In Warwickshire we must reflect upon the messages being sent and act accordingly. It is the words and actions of our grass roots members which will have the greatest influence upon our future, and to assist this process to develop, we have re-introduced the Lodge Information Officer (LIO) programme. LIOs whose details have been received have been sent an outline of the role, and will increasingly receive information for email distribution amongst members. They are also encouraged to take an interest in Lodge websites, and if their

Lodge hasnt got one, to see about creating one. Full guidelines can be found on the Provincial website and I am very grateful to W Bro Ron Parker for agreeing to help Lodges through the process. We hope LIOs will also take an active part in letting everyone know about their Lodges activities, both by submitting news items for our website or newsletter, or to their local media. LIOs will become very close to the heartbeat of Freemasonry and a lively and entertaining workshop will be organised for them during the next Masonic season.

Well deserved thanks go to Bro Ivan Smart for his help in continued development of the website, and also to W Bro John Davis for his tenacity in ensuring a continued stream of advertisers.

Peter Wellings, Editor

See all the detail, latest news and up-to-date information on our website:

interesting to learn about TOA taxis i n v o l v e m e n t w i t h C h a r i t y Pantomimes in Birmingham during their recent 50 year anniversary celebrations, long before the local Freemasons took over organising the event. The Coventry show was attended by the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Keiran Mulhall and the Deputy Provincial Grand Master VW Bro Alan Wellan who said the reward for all was seen on the faces of the children. Plans are already in place for the production of Treasure Island in December 2012.

* Local children again enjoyed fabulous pantomimes organised by Warwickshire Freemasons, for the first time extended to two centres. The Birmingham show at the Edgbaston HQ, organised in conjunction with TOA Taxis, entertained nearly 700 children plus over 140 carers, with Coventry seeing over 400 at their venue the following day. The children were enthralled by the shows - Jack and the Beanstalk - and roared with laughter at the antics of Jack, his exuberant mother Mrs Lumpkin and Barmy Bosworth, the evil Mayor Byron Botchitt and his neice Lucy. They were produced by professional theatre company Chaplins. There were two performances at each venue, morning and afternoon, catering for children who might perhaps never have been to a live theatre show, as well as many with learning and physical disabilities, all being introduced to Santa as they left, who gave every one of them a Christmas gift before they departed. The Provincial Grand Master RW Bro David Macey introduced

the Birmingham show in the morning, during which he welcomed the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Anita Ward, presenting her with a cheque for 500 towards the Lord Mayors charity. The Lord Mayor thanked everyone who had taken part in organising the event, in particular TOA Taxis for arranging all of the transport; Chauffeurs (Coaches ), West Midlands Police for liaising with local schools, and ensuring the traffic flows; Office Christmas for providing the magnificent room decorations; Staff and helpers from the Clarendon Suites and the schools attending; Father Christmas and his helpers, and the Birmingham South West Group Residents Association. Particular thanks were also due for the generous funding from the Provinc ia l Char i ty Office. A t bo th venues magician Peter Pocelli entertained the children (and adults!) between performances, keeping the merriment going throughout the day. It was also very

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+,-After 7 months of preparing Elphin II for an Atlantic crossing and sailing her 2,700 nautical miles from Turkey to the start line in Gran Canaria, Bro Stuart Reed of Trinity Lodge 254 has written a delightful account of his adventure.

His log covering the following 16 days records 200,000 ton tankers disappearing in the swell and accelerating their own speed to a frightening 17 knots. It also includes some interesting marine life tales as well as difficulties including losing a sail the size of 42 double bed sheets and generator failure. Pictured is Stuart (2nd from the right) with his crew as they arrived in St Lucia 3,186 nautical miles later. They are all delighted at the interest and sponsorship their trip had generated, achieving a magnificent total of 3,300 towards the 2012 Festival. Stuarts log and further photos can be seen on the Provincial website www.warwickshirepgl.org.uk

! The Spring Harmony Charity Concert held in aid of the 2012 Festival was a magnificent evening of top quality musical entertainment which enthralled everyone present. Compered by well known radio presenter Bro Ed Doolan MBE in his inimitable style, the audience enjoyed a delightful variety of classical and contemporary arrangements and solos from the artist(e)s and ensembles present, which included the Heart of England Co-operative Concert Orchestra and the Warwickshire County Choristers. The whole evening ran like clockwork thanks to the meticulous planning of W Bro Mervyn Kimberley and his team, and concluded with a rousing rendition of Parrys Jerusalem which the audience participated in with enthusiasm and gusto!

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W Bro Nick Plotnek of Birmingham Old Edwardian Lodge 7115, who a lso coordinates the activities of the Provincial Lodge Support Team, is the latest adventurer to embark on a hair raising expedition in order to raise money for the 2012 Festival and Birmingham Childrens Hospital. Hes entering the Mongol Rally,

which commences at Goodwood (UK) on 14th July 2012 and his journey is expected to take seven weeks. The destination is Ulaanbaatar, Outer Mongolia, and Nicks 10,000 mile route will cross 19 countries, 2 continents, 3 deserts and 5 mountain ranges ascending up to 15,000 feet, all in temperatures ranging from -10C to +45C. Nicks team is aptly named Idiots Abroad

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easy to see why as his transport has just two wheels, being a tiny 125cc Yamaha and his adventures can be followed live on his website, www.idiotsabroad.co.uk. Good luck, Nick, well all be routing (!) for you. Nick will be very grateful for any s pons o rs h ip f r o m Warwickshire Freemasons, and Stewards will be sent details.

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A presentation was given by Mr Richard Douglas, the Chief Executive of the Masonic Samaritan Fund to the pre-Christmas meeting of the Warwickshire Installed Masters Lodge 4538. In the 21 years since the charity had been established he was very proud that 51 million had gone t o wa r d s h e lp i ng 9 , 50 0 individuals, with 2010/11 being the busiest year ever, 5.2 million having gone to over 1,000 applicants. In his presentation he outlined the scope of the Charity's work and the extent of the

comprehensive services offered, which had expanded over the years to include the medical, dental, respite and mobility needs of eligible applicants, half of whom were relatives or dependants of Freemasons. With the assistance of the Festival Director, W Bro Trevor Sturt, he then went on to demonstrate how the successful initiatives undertaken by the Lodges and individual masons in the Province would have been put to good use by the Charity. The presentation was followed by an informative series of answers to the numerous

questions raised by the Brethren, following which Trevor gave details of the current position of the Festival, presenting a further eight Mauls to various Lodges, including WIM itself. The Master, RW Bro David Macey, ProvGM, thanked Richard for taking time out from his very busy schedule to come to talk to us, and Trevor for all the work he was doing for the Festival and for the delightful way in which they had presented the information to the brethren, who showed their appreciation with enthusiastic applause.

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W Bro Richard Jaffas new b o o k , wh i c h e x a m i n e s K i p l i n g s i n t e r e s t i n Freemasonry and its impact on his literary output, is selling well.

The book is a substantial paperback of 280 pages with illustrations, priced at 12 plus 3 p&p, with profits from all copies sold going to the 2012 Festival until it concludes. Richard is also pleased to give talks to Lodges about Kipling.

Further details about the book and its author can be found on the Provincial website, together with an order form. It is also available from the Provincial Office. Or go to www.richardjaffa.com.

Those lucky enough to have obtained tickets (which are being emailed during the next few weeks) will enjoy a memorable end to a memorable Festival. An exclusive evening will be enjoyed by 450 Brethren, Ladies and guests accompanied by all the (Elgar) Pomp and Circumstance of the Last Night of the Proms.

The highlight of the evening will be the announcement of the final total raised by the Festival, which will be kept carefully guarded until then. It will be a huge sum, and a suitably huge cheque will then be presented to the President of the Masonic Samaritan Fund.

Well, we did warn you, and sure enough the Festival Celebration to be held on Saturday 22nd September concluding the seven years of fund-raising efforts by the Freemasons of Warwickshire is now sold out.

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A sponsored Swimathon has been organised by the Lodge of Unity 567, to take place at the sports complex swimming pool, Warwick School between noon and 5.00pm on Sunday 17th June 2012. Swimmers of all abilities can take part with the pool being divided into large lanes for slow, medium and torpedo like swimmers. It is

planned that each swimmer will get one hour of pool time to complete their swim. There will be professional life-guards on duty for the entirety of the event. It is hoped that not only Freemasons from across the Province will take part but also family and friends. To register, and receive a sponsor form, please email W B ro Da v id Pe rk i ns a t

giving your name, address and Lodge details, together with a list of any family members or friends who also wish to take part, indicating which category of swimmer each participant is in: slow, medium or fast. Funds raised will be added to Lodges totals for the Festival. Needless to say, all spectators are also very welcome to attend.

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6)/ Our Immediate Past Provincial Grand Master RW Bro Michael J Price CBE was honoured to accept an invitation from the Provincial Grand Master of Middlesex, RW Bro HRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO, to be Provincial Senior Grand Warden for Middlesex, being invested at the Annual Meeting on 8th May. For a few days in May the Lodge of Hope and Saint Alphege 4436 in Warwickshire will therefore have two acting Provincial Senior Grand Wardens, the other being Peter Sorrill.

-+ Following five very busy and successful years as Provincial Grand Almoner, W Bro Christopher J Grove MBE has been elected onto the Council of the Grand Charity, having been nominated by the seven Provincial Grand Masters forming the Group 4 Rulers Forum. His reputation goes before him, with all three sub-committees of the Grand Charity vying for his services!

2# Right Distinguished Companion Andrew Sweeney was installed as Grand Summus of the Ancient and Masonic Order of the Scarlet Cord at their Annual Meeting held at The Clarendon Suites on 3rd May. He succeeds Warwickshire Freemason Michael Guest, who also heads the Order of the Secret Monitor.

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All good wishes go to W Bro Stephen Townsend (left) and W Bro Graham Venn (right), who are being invested

as Provincial S e n i o r a n d Junior Grand Wardens at the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge at The Clarendon S u i t e s o n Saturday 19th May 2012.

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Illustrious Bros Victor Keene MBE (left) and Andrew Crooke (right) have been invited by the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted Rite (Rose Croix) to act as Sentinels at the 30th Degree ceremonies for the period September 2012 to July 2014. During that period they will be officials of the Supreme Council. This is a great and rare honour for both the Brethren

concerned and for the Warwickshire District. The last time Warwickshire B re th ren we re s e l e c t e d a s S e n t i n e l s wa s twenty six years ago. They were

Peter Waring and Ken Mallin. The Order now has its own website which can be seen at www.sc33.org.uk

Our hearty congratulations go to all of the eminent brethren mentioned in these pages, together with every best wish for their happiness and success in their respective roles.

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Included in the 2012 New Year Honours List was Warwickshire Freemason W Bro David Heard, awarded an MBE for his services to the community in Birmingham. David spent 35 years helping local charities look after their finances and balance their books; which as a bank manager he was well qualified to do.

He was a board member of the W ater loo Hous ing Association from 1976 until retiring in 2010, during which time the organisations housing stock rose from 100 to nearly 6,000. As a Governor and Treasurer of St Johns C of E Primary School in Sparkbrook since 1999, which although in a somewhat deprived area, he saw achieve some of the highest results in Birmingham.

During this time he also became actively involved as a Trustee and Treasurer of the Springfield Project, also in Sparkbrook, where a community centre was developed and opened by the Archbishop of Canterbury some three years ago. David has been Master of Mozart Lodge 3735 (with which he has long family associations) on three occasions, and is currently acting as Junior Warden. He has recently re-joined Elkington Chapter after a lengthy absence.

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!& His Installation was followed by a superb dinner at Fishmongers Hall, one of the g randest L ivery Ha l ls overlooking London Bridge and the River Thames, for the Master, Past Masters, Wardens, Members, the Clerk and guests, entertained by The Guildhall School of Music and Drama. As newly installed Master, Graham has played an active role in helping raise the profile of the Company and what it represents for the sector. For over 20 years he was managing director, and the fourth generation of the family

builders merchant business based in Leamington Spa, during which he was very involved in the local activities of his trade associations. He has a big year in 2012 with the Olympics, the Royal Jubilee, and working towards, it is hoped, obtaining a Royal Charter for the WCoBM. He is looking forward to carrying on the work of his predecessor, raising the profile of the Company and maintaining its support for education and training, as well as charity fundraising.

Our congratulations go to W Bro Graham Ballinger, who is the Master for the London based Worshipful Company of B u i l d e r s ' M e r c h a n t s (WCoBM). Graham joined the Livery company in 1995 and was invited onto the Court in 2002 the route to becoming Master. The similarities b e t w e e n t h e L i v e r y Companies and Freemasonry are well known, so his experience as Master of Guys Lodge 395 in 1988, 1998 and 2005 will no doubt be very useful!

For the Lodge DC the issue of salutes often causes the most concern. The choice and variety of salutes can seem bewildering. My advice is to keep things as simple as possible. Usually at a regular lodge meeting the most probable salute will be to the Provincial officers. In which case, after completion of the minutes, stand, (before the WM carries on with the next item on the summons) straighten your apron, pick up your wand and walk to the centre of the lodge room. Court bow to the WM, Then say, "will all brethren below the rank of an officer of Provincial Grand Lodge please rise" then pause to allow all to do so and quiet has resumed, then say, "Brethren, we will salute (usually the most senior present) W Bro John Smith, a Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden of this Masonic Province of Warwickshire,

together with all other officers, present or past of this or any other province (including holders of London, Metropolitan and District Grand Rank should any be present) with honours three. To order brethren..." then switch your wand to your left hand take a step, and perform three salutes. The p a r t s t a r t i n g " i n c l u d i n g holders....etc" is best omitted if there are none there. After the salute, swap wand back to right hand, court bow to the WM return to your seat, sit down then replace your wand in its stand. If there are very few brethren in attendance below the rank of a Provincial Officer then by all means omit the salute altogether. Likewise if one or more Grand Officers are in attendance then a salute only to the GO's and not to Provincial Officers is also acceptable. If I am escorting the ProvGM to a large function then

the only salute of the evening will be to him; there is no reason why this principle cannot be extended through Lodges in general. If a Ruler is attending privately, and unescorted by a Provincial DC, then you will salute him before the minutes, (7 for the PGM, and 5 for the Dep and Asst PGMs). Past Warwickshire Rulers are saluted after the minutes with 5 (Past PGM with 7). In general RW brethren will get 7 salutes, VW brethren 5 all others 3. Anything above 7 will generally not be your problem as there will almost certainly be an escorting DC. There are many and varied circumstances where salute protocol can be unclear, so if you are ever faced with a situation that you are uncertain about please contact me by email. philhall43@hotmail.co.uk

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As I sit here writing this Tylers Table at the beginning of April, it would appear that summer has been and gone; the months fly by!! Our Masonic season is starting the rundown for the summer recess; many Lodges will have finished by the time you read this article. But of course the Provincial Grand Lodge AGM on 19th May is now upon us. Those who have never been before always enjoy a treat with around 800 Masons from the Province attending the meeting and approximately 570 dining, a sight to behold indeed. Is all the equipment that your Lodge owns marked with the Lodge Number? The Provincial Grand Registrar, (the holder of all equipment that is lost) at one time

had five Charity boxes, none of them were numbered or had a name on them, if they had, they could have been returned. When you consider the price of say, a pair of compasses, doesnt it make sense to mark all your Lodge equipment? Talking of compasses, the conundrum I set you in the last Table was: How many sets of Compasses are needed by a Lodge for smooth running? The answer is of course three; these are needed in the third degree ceremony, one pair for the Inner Guard, one pair for the VSL and one pair for the working tools. Your task for this edition, should you choose to accept it, is: How many Regular Officers are there in a Lodge, how many

Additional Officers must the WM appoint and invest and how many Additional Officers may the WM appoint and invest? I intend to hold another Tylers Seminar around November, so if any of you want to become a Tyler or if you just want to expand your knowledge of the workings of the Office within your Lodge, then do come along. Enjoy your summer recess Brethren, who knows where or when we may meet. If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to contact me.

email: ianahart@btinternet.com Tel: 0121 550 0098

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Finding suitable music to play for our ceremonies is never easy, but life is simpler when the pieces are found inside one cover! Those more accomplished organists who use two manuals and the bottom octave of pedals will find The Joy of Organ Music a useful resource. Although these books have been available for some years they are ideal in that the arrangements in both books are short, have no page turns, are easy to play and in easy keys. Both books are still in print. Book 2 (arranged by Kenneth Baker) is particularly good. Try Amazon for a good bargain!

Two other books have also come to my attention. Really Easy Piano Classical contains thirty-six Popular Melodies in easy keys with mostly with one note in each hand. The Easiest Keyboard Collection Classics has twenty-two easy to play tunes for the right hand with chord symbols. Both are published by Wise Publications. I shall be pleased to hear from any Brother who has s imi lar recommendations. Do you need a copy of the Opening Ode or the Parting Song? I now have a number of arrangements of commonly used Lodge music on pdf files. If you would like a list of what is

ava i lab le , ema i l me a t : petersummers@yahoo.com. If you type PGL Music in the subject bar your enquiry should not be dismissed as spam! A brief thought on pitch. The human ear remembers pitch long after the music has finished (different movements of symphonies, and indeed concert programmes, have to be key related). I would argue that a successful take up of a SMIB may well be partly dependent on the key of the preceding piece of music. Or stabilize it in a single key, for which F is particularly good.

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Jephson Lodge 4336 deliver the 2nd and 3rd lectures after passing or raising candidates, and would always welcome visitors to enjoy this. The General Lodge of Instruction 587 worked various sections of the 1st lecture at its recent Festival, presided over by the PGM who stated what a Masonic treat had been enjoyed by all present (see website report). Copies of the (little green) Book of Lectures can be purchased from the Provincial Office.

explain every aspect of our ceremonies, usually delivered in catechetical (ie question and answer) form, which may be presented directly from the book (after a bit of practice!) Fraternity Lodge 4032 Master Andy Thompson, faced with a las t minu te change in programme, conferred with Lodge Preceptor W Bro Ken Hazeldene and between them and the Lodge Officers delivered the whole 1st lecture. It took 90 minutes, but a pin would have been heard drop throughout.

-%68 The Lectures of the Three Degrees in Craft Freemasonry are enjoying a long overdue resurgence, f o l l o w i n g t h e Provincial Grand Masters encourage-ment for Lodges to work them. They comprise a series of delightful presentations which c o m p r e h e n s i v e l y

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5 September, at the Solihull Masonic Temple in Knowle. A candidate for Installation into Knighthood must be of the Trinitarian Christian faith, a Master Mason and a Royal Arch Mason. Further details about the Orders included can be seen at which can also be accessed via a link from the Craft website The founding Eminent Preceptor is E Kt Bill Silvester,

and the founding S e c r e t a r y i s E Kt Ron Attwood, to whom all enquiries a b o u t t h e n e w Preceptory should be sent, together with expressions of interest from prospective joining members or candidates. email: ronattwood@yahoo.com or telephone 01283 791302.

A new Knights Templar Preceptory - with a difference was consecrated on Saturday 12th May 2012 at the Yenton Masonic Rooms, Erdington, Birmingham. The Preceptory of Light 689 is unique within the Provincial Priory of Warwickshire as its meetings will be held in the morning, followed by lunch. These will be on the third Thursday in May and June, and the second Friday in

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Following a fact finding visit from a delegation of Bulgarian brethren last year, which included their Deputy Grand Master, a further group was hosted by Trinity Lodge 254 and given a guided tour of the Provincial HQ in Edgbaston by PGM RW Bro David Macey. This time round, it included not only the Grand Master MW Bro Ivan Sariev, Past Deputy

Grand Master Lubomir Parmakov and brethren from Bulgaria but also a contingent of Greek Freemasons. During their stay the visitors and their wives were also shown round Warwick Castle. The brethren attended Trinitys Installation meeting at which Bro Mark Goddin became Worshipful Master under the most interesting

Trinity Workings. Mark s fa ther W Bro Tim Goddin is the main link with the Bulgarian a n d G r e e k brethren, and in addition to them a Romanian mason who was visiting Coventry also a t tended and p r e s e n t e d greetings.

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Butterworth, the senior Preceptor of the GCOI who thanked him for supporting the Festival as President and referred to the enormous contribution made by him to the Royal Arch over many years of service. ME Comp Francis in his response stated how much he had enjoyed the experience of being President and meeting so many Companions prior to dinner but especially being back in Birmingham where he had attended University. Finally, the ME Grand Superintendent added his own thanks to all the participants and said how proud he felt that such a wonderful demonstration could be given by our younger Companions. He added his thanks to the ME Second Grand Principal for accepting his invitation to visit Warwickshire and making this Festival such a special occasion

A superb demonstration of the Warwickshire Exal ta t ion Ceremony at the General Chapter of Instruction Festival on 8th May 2012 left ME Comp George Pipon Francis, the ME Second Grand Principal and President of the Festival, highly impressed. Over 150 Companions and eight Past Presidents of the Festival drawn from the Grand Superintendents of the surrounding Provinces were present. This was the first time that ME Comp Francis had seen our ceremony performed and in his remarks expressed his delight and congratulations to the Com pan ions wh o had participated and to the Preceptors who had all worked hard to make the evening so special. A record number of twelve Companions below the Chairs, d r a wn f r o m C h a p t e r s

throughout the Province, participated in the Ceremony and the Lectures which were this year divided up and given in catechitical form which was well received and enjoyed by all. The standard of ritual was exce l len t and everyone deserved the praise given. At the dinner following the event the Toast to ME Comp Francis was given by E Comp David

Within the English Constitution, after one month as a Master Mason, a Freemason is entitled to join the Holy Royal Arch of Jerusalem, more familiarly known as the Holy Royal Arch. The Holy Royal Arch whilst being an integral part of Freemasonry is organised as a separate Order. It is variously described as the essence of Freemasonry, the foundation

and keystone of the whole Masonic structure, and as the root, heart and marrow of freemasonry. Every Master Mason has, and should take, the opportunity of discovering these qualities for himself by joining the Holy Royal Arch. . The Holy Royal Arch is similar in some respects to Craft Masonry, it is different in a number of aspects and, indeed, is most interesting in

its differences. Leaflets are displayed at most Masonic rooms so do read all about it or ask a Companion from your Lodge! There is a Holy Royal Arch Representative in each Craft Lodge in Warwickshire who is there to give guidance and p rov ide members wi th information on the Holy Royal A r c h a n d e n c o u r a g e applications so do contact him, ask questions and then, Come and join us!

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The annual Past Principals Dinner in November was preceded by a demonstration by the Provincial Officers of the Ceremony of the Veils which SGC have given permission to Provinces to demonstrate. Over 150 Compan-ions attended and found the ritual of great interest. The MEGS confirmed the following Appointments at the Annual Convocation in June. The Prov Grand Haggai will be E Comp John R Norman PGStB, the Prov Grand Joshua E Comp Paul J Wheeler, PGStB and as the Prov Grand Almoner E Comp R Michael E Irving, PGStB.

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Royal Arch 2013 Bi-Centenary Appeal for the Royal College of Surgeons E Comp David Satchwell. Provincial Charity Steward, confirms good progress by many Chapters in their donations to the Appeal. He thanks them for their support and encourages those Chapters who have not yet hit their targets to try and have a collection at their next Chapter meeting.

Lodge RA Representatives The Lodge Royal Arch Representatives continue to do a sterling job in promoting membership of the Royal Arch. Regular Quarterly updates are now being sent by the Chairman, E Comp Stephen Fowler which is intended to help keep the RA reports fresh. The next meeting of the Lodge Reps will be held on Saturday 10th November 2012, as usual, the same day as the Service of Remembrance at Stirling Road.

Warwickshire RA Ritual Books The latest edition of the Warwickshire Ritual book is that issued in 2010. All Companions must ensure that they are using the up to date ritual as instances are occurring in ceremonies where parts of the ritual are missed because the older editions are being used. Ritual books can be obtained from the Provincial Grand Treasurer E Comp David Evans.

Directors of Ceremonies Handbook A booklet entitled "Guidance Notes for Chapter DC's". was produced in 2007 to assist Directors of Ceremonies in ensuring that our ceremonies and proceedings are carried out to the highest possible standards. Chapter DC's, ADC's and those aspiring to these offices should read them in conjunction with the Warwickshire Royal Arch ritual. Copies of the booklet are available from the Provincial Grand Scribe E, at a cost of 3.50 per copy, including p&p.

Exaltees Meeting 29th May 2012 will see the annual Exaltees meeting at Stirling Road which has proved very helpful to new Companions. Chapter Principals will be expected to accompany their Exaltees to this important event and further details will be sent to Scribe Es.

Fraternal Visit to Cambridgeshire Nearly 20 Companions had a splendid evening when the Province visited the Chapter of Pythagoras No. 88 in Cambridge on 3rd May 2012. A warm welcome, superb ceremony with an excellent Festive Board made the journey well worthwhile.

Website www.royal-arch.org.uk The Provincial website has been updated and is re-launched in a new format. It will now be updated regularly and includes more information for interest to Companions. We are looking for interesting articles so do please contact the Provincial Scribe E if you are able to assist in preparing material for inclusion.

And Finally Please note the new date for the Annual Convocation which will be held on Tuesday 19th June 2012 at 4.00pm.

The Provincial Newsletter is edited and produced by the Provincial Scribe E, E Comp John Handley, to whom all news should be sent:

67 Tilehouse Green Lane, Knowle, Solihull, B93 9EU or by email to

scribe@royal-arch.org.uk

The meeting on Monday 14th May 2012 saw that well known and popular Masonic speaker, E Comp Neville Barker Cryer, PGSoj give an informative and entertaining talk entitled Latest Reflections on the Holy Royal Arch. This was well received and enjoyed by the Companions present. E Comp R Michael E Irving, PGStB, PProvGJ, as MEZ, informed the Companions that E Comp Neville had recently celebrated 60 years membership of the Craft and that 2011 saw him achieve 55 years in the Royal Arch a record that few could surpass. And he congratulated him for yet again providing a wonderfully entertaining meeting.

The Chapter continues to bring together the senior members of the Province to share events and experiences as well as provide an opportunity to discuss matters affecting the Province. Past First Principals of Chapters are reminded that they are eligible to join this most prestigious Chapter. It meets twice a year and the annual subscription is just 10.00!

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()*(Congratulations are extended to the following Companions of the Province who received an appointment in Grand Rank at the recent meeting of Supreme Grand Chapter. Promotions included E Comp Rex J Lowin, Greville 4773 to PGSwdB and E Comp David J F Rawlins, Howe 587 to PAGSoj. First Appointments were E Comp Phillip L Hall, Loyal Travellers 2733 to the acting rank of DepGDC (in both the Royal Arch and the Craft!), E Comp Allan J Wellan, Swan of Avon 2133 to PGStB and E Comp John F R Handley, Holte 1246 to PGStB. Hearty congratulations are extended to all these Companions.

'+'+'',uplifting occasion, which was enjoyed by all who attended the event. The Provincial Grand Organist, E Comp Roy Marshall conducted the Provincial choir who added to the wonderful music which always graces this occasion. The ME Grand Superinten-dent presented the Church Warden a cheque for 500 as a donation to their funds. Afternoon tea followed at The Kings Court Hotel which rounded off a lovely day bringing together the Companions of the Province together with their wives and partners.

Sunday 25th March 2012, saw the annual Royal Arch Church service once again held at the lovely Coughton Parish Church. The sun shone, the daffodils were out and everything was in place for a wonderful event. In a thought provoking and enjoyable service, with the theme of The Whole Armour of God E Comp Rev J Stephen Cooke, Prov Grand Chaplain for Staffs, who conducted the service, reminded everyone of mans need for spiritual as well as physical sustenance. With readings by the Grand Superintendent and Deputy Grand Superintendent the occasion provided an

Athol Chapter No 74 celebrated its 150th Anniversary on 16th April 2012 in the best manner possible - by Exalting a new Companion to the Order! This formed the highlight of an excellent meeting attended by the ME Grand Superintendent and a further 17 visitors! After the Exaltation ceremony the Scribe E, E Comp Nigel C Bister gave a very interesting history of the Chapter and explained that even in 1860 they had difficulty sometimes with low numbers - the Charter was granted in 1860 but the Consecration meeting could not be held until 1862! Interestingly, the history of the Chapter is interwoven with that of the building as the Chapter has continuously met since its consecration in the Athol Masonic Hall, Severn Street. This wonderful building, built in the Greek Revival style, was purchased by the Freemasons, predominately of Athol Lodge, in 1856 with the dining room added in 1872. The Grand Superintendent congratulated all members of the Chapter in achieving this wonderful milestone and explained the background to the creation of the Athol Lodges and Chapters. This was a lovely meeting which was enjoyed by everyone present.

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Following the successful and popular format of its previous occasions, the Mark Social Committee once again amazed and delighted guests who attended the third and final Black Tie Ball organized to raise funds for the Craft 2012 Festival. Entertainment was provided during the splendid banquet with a lively disco dance routine, and the Abba R e u n i o n G r o u p s

Bro David Rawlins, to present a cheque for 4,000 to the Festival Appeal, bringing the total from the Mark Degree up to the magnificent sum of 10,000. He gave particular thanks to Adrian Rawlins and Peter Wellings for their personal efforts in delivering the three events, as well as the rest of the Social Committee for everything else they do too. Although this was the final Mark social event in support of the 2012 Festival, it probably wont be difficult to find an excuse for a sequel. . . .

The Warwick Suite at our Masonic HQ in Edgbaston was, once more, packed for the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge last November. Having opened the meeting, the ProvGM welcomed the many visiting Provincial Grand M a s t e r s a n d o t h e r distinguished guests, including Heads of other Masonic Orders. A colorful delegation of Royal Ark Mariners (pictured) was admitted to the meeting, bringing greetings from all the RAM lodges within the Province. The ProvGM was keen to thank the very many members o f the Prov ince who worked untiringly to ensure the smooth running of all the different aspects of such a busy and successful Province a s W a r w i c k s h i r e . H e highlighted the work of the Provincial Grand Almoner, W Bro Simon Wensley in

demonstrating the care and compassion so central to Freemasonry. He hoped the outgoing team of Active Officers had enjoyed their year, as would the incoming ones also.RW Bro David mentioned many of the special functions and events that had taken place within and without the Province during the past year, outlining several highlights. He also spoke of the generosity of

the Brethren, through the Warwickshire Mark Benevolent Fund in their support of Masonic and other charities, as well as the continuing success of the events organised by the Social Committee. Before closing Provincial Grand Lodge the ProvGM expressed his pride in the Province and concluded by presenting three cheques to Mark Masonic appeals.

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performance of all the favourite hits, from Waterloo to Dancing Queen, was unrivalled in its authenticity from both an audio and visual perspective. The dance floor was packed throughout the evening and even after the function had finished, guests lingered to continue enjoying each others company. The sophistication of the professional casino tables e n a b l e d e v e r y o n e t o participate in Roulette and Blackjack whilst taking a break from the dancing. A further opportunity to empty pockets, wallets and purses was provided by a raffle, with a range of high quality prizes. The event enabled the Provincial Grand Master, RW

Welcome to the Mark

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()*+,*Family Sunday Lunch

Sunday 13 May Clarendon Suites, Edgbaston

Golf vs. Worcestershire Friday 25 May

Bromsgrove Golf Club

Mark Grand Lodge Annual Investiture Meeting*

Tuesday 12 June Great Queen Street, London

Annual Mark Provincial Golf Day

Thursday 5 July Harborne Golf Club

Jubilee Jazz Sunday 8 July

Guys Cliffe, Warwick

Cricket vs. Worcestershire August

Details to be announced

Mark Benevolent Fund 144th Anniversary Festival

Saturday 29 September Rugby Football Stadium

Twickenham

Provincial Officers Lunch* Sunday 14 October

Venue to be confirmed

Fireworks Bonanza, Bonfire, BBQ & Pig Roast

Sunday 4 Nov Park Farm, Hampton-in-Arden

Annual Meeting of Mark Provincial Grand Lodge*

Saturday 24 November Clarendon Suites, Edgbaston

Annual Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners* Tuesday 11 December

Great Queen Street, London

Mark Carol Service Sunday 16 December Edgbaston Old Church

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Signa Bene Lodge 1501 enjoyed a special treat when W Bro Richard Thurlow presented the Lecture on the Tracing Board of the Degree of Mark Master Mason. The lecture contains an extensive explanation of the various marks, ornaments, emblems, jewels and tools

used in the Order, describing their origins and usages as well as their symbolical representations. It could easily be split up and shared between several brethren, but Richards single handed delivery was delightful to experience and thoroughly enjoyed by all present.

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Members of the Warwickshire Ins tal led Mark Master Masons Lodge 1400 took over the St Georges Hotel in Llandudno for their annual Festival weekend where the Victorian elegance of the North Wales seaside town proved to be ideal, with plenty of opportunities for taking the sea air, exploring local attractions and, of course, shopping.

For many, Llandudno was a new experience. Often by-

passed on the w a y t o S n o w d o n i a , the venue was only part of the experi-ence.

This was an opportunity for the Mark family to get t o g e t h e r , enjoy each

others company and have a thoroughly good time. Sian Llewellyns gentle harp playing during the reception set the tone for the Festival Dinner, after which everyone took to the floor to the strains of Mr Jazz. Fundraising over the weekend resulted in generous donations to Marie Curie Cancer Care, the W a r w i c k s h i r e M a r k Benevolent Fund, and a Warwickshire School for children with special needs.

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Both the Silhill 972 Mark and RAM Lodges have had cause

to celebrate during their current year. Following his Installation as Master of the Mark Lodge, W Bro Martin Bates, was delighted to present W Bro Len Clifford with a bottle of Malt Whisky on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Len is Treasurer of the Lodge, where he has been a member for 40 years. The RAM Lodge unveiled its

new honours board after a ceremony of dedication, believed to be unique in Warwickshire and providing an interesting challenge for the Provincial DC! The Commander, W Bro Stuar t Shorthouse is obviously having a wonderful time on the bridge as he is currently serving his third consecutive term at the helm.

Prior to conducting the Dedication Ceremony of the new Mancetter 1883 Banner,

the Provincial Grand master, RW Bro David Rawlins gave a retrospect of the Lodges consecration in 2007, noting that every one of the leading C o n s e c r a t i on O f f i c e r s , including the then ProvGM RW Bro David Hooker, was present on this special occasion, held at the splendid Atherstone rooms.

In an inspiring Oration, W Bro

Stephen Wright referred to the origins and different types of banner in existence, the component parts of this particular Banner and the local history and background to the Lodge itself, also explaining the significance of the date chosen for the dedicat ion, this being Michaelmas Day. The master, W Bro Garry Malpas thanked the whole Provincial team for their greatly appreciated support

and stated what a wonderful occasion it had been. A magnificent Festive Board was held at the Red Lion Hotel, where the Banner was proudly displayed for all to see.

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The Investiture of our new Pro Grand Master, MW Bro Benjamin Addy, Deputy Grand Master RW Bro Michael Herbert and Assistant Grand Master RW Bro Keith Emmerson was well attended by brethren from Warwick-shire and elsewhere in the UK

and abroad, being held at Great Queen Street in order to accommodate all present. Signa Bene Mark Lodge 1501 was probably the first in Warwickshire to propose the new Toast, as they met that very same night!

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warwickshire Freemasons

is published by the Provincial Grand Lodge of

Warwickshire

The Clarendon Suites 2 Stirling Road

Edgbaston Birmingham

B16 9SB

Tel: 0121 454 4422

Fax: 0121 456 2205

E.mail: masons@

warwickshirepgl.org.uk

Editorial & Advertising: peter@wellings.me.uk

Produced by: Peter Wellings 07973 135761

Printed and distributed by: Graphics and Print

(Telford) Ltd

occasions, ranging from a small private Lodge right through to full utilisation for one of the many Provincial or National Annual Meetings are very adequately provided for, the full potential shouldnt be underestimated. With its ample car park it is the ideal venue for a whole range of events or special occasions, ranging from Exhibitions and Seminars, Conferences and Product Launches, Meetings and Presentations, Examinations, Banquets and Dinner Dances, through to Concerts and Wedding Receptions, large or small. One of the more esoteric sounding events early in November is the Mind, Body and Soul Weekend for the large following of those interested in spiritualism, meditation and faith healing. The duty staff will no doubt derive great solace and internal happiness from the atmosphere which wi l l inevitably abound!

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3,9 The Provincial Diary includes the following events, full details (or details of the organiser) may be obtained from the Provincial Office, but as we continue progress with the website, details will increasingly be shown there, as will application forms and direct contact information. tel: 0121 454 4422

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telephone and the whole myriad of other needs which any significant commercial operation demands. Indeed bemusing anecdotes include the complaint that the roast potatoes were soggy and tasted of onions - hardly surprising as they were Lyonnaise! Or the member who asked if someone could pop upstairs and see if his case was still in Lodge room 2 - six months after he had left it there! Provision of raffle tickets, mending of split trousers and often waving the proverbial magic wand have all featured, but are part of a routine days work giving service with a smile. The variety of activities which take place ensure that no two days are ever the same, each bringing its own demands and individual needs. Although the impressive building itself was original ly designed for Masonic purposes alone, changing times have seen its ongoing development as a flexible and multi-purpose centre. Whilst Masonic

In this column, we have looked at many of the activities and individuals which make up the Masonic aspect of our organisation, and we now turn to the Catering and Banqueting side. Nothing happens without someone making it happen, and a great deal is certainly always happening in the day-to-day management of our magnificent Headquarters at The Clarendon Suites. Led by General Manager Diane Hepworth (who joined us in 2005) the team of Chefs, Duty Managers and Sales personnel carry out a splendid job seeking out and servicing new business from non-Masonic organisations, continually developing the variety of culinary delights available as well as fulfilling the wishes and whims of Freemasons! Members of the team come from a variety of backgrounds and their experience includes service with major hotels, other conference/banqueting centres, civil service, armed forces and even St Jamess Palace. They all work tirelessly to ensure that Dianes determination and hands-on approach for customer satisfaction is fulfilled, regardless of what that might require of them. This certainly doesnt end with co-ordinating the multitude of staff who prepare and serve the meals, move the furniture round, cheerfully deal with enquiries over the

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Lodges meeting at The Clarendon Suites have been advised that in order to help their members there will not be any increases in either dining fees or capitation charges until at least 1st January 2013. Guidelines have been sent to all those Lodges on ways to keep costs to a minimum, which if successful could hopefully avoid the necessity for price increases on 1st January. A major source of income is derived from external bookings and all members should encourage these whenever possible - ed.