The Cross Keys May 2011

The Cross Keys The Monthly Newsletter of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone Walking the Road / Seeking the Light May 2011

Number 149

In this issue: Three meetings, one day!

Operative Masons’ Test Lodge Craigends No.1042 Crest French Document from Hawaii Grand Lodge’s 275th & 100th Celebrations

Cross Keys May. 2011

Three Meetings in one Day?

Yes, when confronted with this idea even I though this was complete madness. My opinion was based on a day when I attended a Grand Lodge Communication, followed by a meeting of Lodge Sir Robert Moray No.1641 to hear a lecture and finally a visit to Lodge St. David’s No.36. Individually, these meetings were very enjoyable, but at the end of the day and getting two trains home, I was shattered! Therefore, when I heard about attending three meetings, my first thought was not positive.

However, having been to a couple of these days then my opinion has completely changed. I visited a masonic centre in Sidcup, Kent where three different orders met. It days started at 10.30am followed by lunch at about 12 noon. This was not rushed at all and it was possible to have a drink over a pleasant lunch. The next meeting started at 2pm and the last about 3.30pm so a small harmony with brethren concluded the day about 5.30pm. It was actually very relaxing and very friendly and worth considering.

This series of degrees takes place on the 5th Saturday three times a year.

How many orders struggle with numbers? Many RAC operate with less than 20 and some orders are even less than this. Perhaps having a chapter meeting with a Cryptic Council and RAM lodge might be a possibility. Alternatively, a KT meeting with RCC and KTP might be another option keeping chivalric degrees together. The number of combinations is vast.

This would mean that brethren can attend all three (or two or one) and rather than using nine nights in a year, only three afternoons are used. More wife and family friendly.

Considering numbers attending many side orders, something must be tried. Can the Craft follow a similar system? A degree in the morning followed by lunch and then a lecture. Why not?

I believe that we need to try something in terms of attracting more brethren—we have plenty of members and all we need to do is attract them. The status quo is not the answer. Even successful lodges continually work at their syllabus—it is not by chance they are successful and have interesting meetings. Who will be brave enough to have a go?

An Informed Mason is an Involved Mason

Cross Keys May. 2011

Testing Operatives Masons 17th and 18th century lodges were very different entities from what a present day mason would expect. Although we have tests for brethren who cannot be vouched, it is unlikely that today’s speculative would pass those tests of old.

One example is taken from No. 1 in Edinburgh in 1686 when John Hamilton, a mason, supplied his essay: ‚one house of 120 feet in length and 24 foot over the walls, with one large stair with a turnpike in the back. The said house is to consist in three stories, 10 feet between floors with doors, windows and chimneys with a stay roof.‛ Obviously this was not brought to the lodge, but ‚essay masters‛ were appointed to judge the work. They were also there during its actual construction in order to ensure it was the craftsman’s own work and not that of his master.

This meant that he was eligible, as a master mason, to employ apprentices and higher fees could be charged. It must be pointed out that not all apprentices went down this route—many were happy to stay as an apprentice. In a similar manner today, many brethren are happy not to become master.

The essay-piece was an important part of operative masonry and was mentioned in Schaw’s Statutes. No.10 & 11 (2nd Statutes) mentioned that no fellow craft was to be admitted ‚without one sufficient essay and proof of memory‛ to warden, deacon and quartermaster. The point about proof of memory will be elaborated in the next edition in September.

In 1842, The Lodge of Journeymen Masons No.8 (an operative lodge) had a problem with their master not having an essay passed. Being an operative lodge, this was unacceptable. It was decided that since he was an architect then he could work his essay-piece. He produced a window sill after working in the mason’s shed with an operative apron and was visited several times during the day by the wardens to ensure the old customs were maintained. Luckily, his work was to the satisfaction of the wardens and he was recommended to ‘sit in the orient’ of No.8.

There was variation in practice and there was also a difference between the lodge and the incorporation which often gave two distinct career patterns.

Cross Keys May. 2011

Crests of the Province It is hoped to start a series of articles about the crests of the lodge in Renfrewshire East. To get things started, Lodge Craigends No.1042 have kindly agreed to have their crest explained which has been registered with the Lord Lyon —full details can be found from their website by clicking on the matriculation below.

Since the consecration of the Lodge in 1908, the recognised badge or device has included a Unicorn's head. This Unicorn was present in the Crest of the Cunninghame family, who resided at Craigends House near Linwood. John Charles Cunninghame, the 17th (and last) Laird of Craigends was a benefactor and founder member of the Lodge.

The right hand side of the Arms is the same as the Arms of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, the bottom left quadrant, from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East, and the top left quadrant - the unicorn from the Cunninghame family crest.

In 1995, it was decided to matriculate (register) the Lodge Arms with the Court of the Lord Lyon. Lodge Craigends is one of only eighteen daughter lodges and six Provincial Grand Lodges under the holding of the Grand Lodge of Scotland to have a matriculated Coat of Arms.

Up until this point, the unicorn's head was gold in colour, but the Lord Lyon insisted that it should be registered as silver, as the gold unicorn was already registered.

Cross Keys May. 2011

French Masonic Creed Earlier in the year, Brother Guy from Tahiti was in attendance at Honolulu Lodge and presented RW Monty Glover (Grand Lodge of Hawaii) with a beautiful masonic gift. A copy of a French masonic document originating from the late 1800!s.

The true Masonic creed consists of good morals. Therefore, do good work for the love and welfare of oneself.

Love the good in people, help the weak, and avoid the evil. Speak concisely with your superiors, cautiously with your equals, sincerely with your friends, with care to your subordinates, and compassionately with the poor.

Do not flatter your brothers; such is a moral trespass. If your brother flatters you, do not permit it to corrupt your good sense. If destiny gives you a son, thank God. But, be mindful of the responsibility that is required of you, for this child is a reflection of His nature. Until 10 years of age, be his master. Until 20 years, his father. Until death, his friend. Read, and enrich oneself. Watch and learn. Reflect and work. Being ever available for betterment of one’s brothers is in turn an improvement upon oneself. Always abide by the voice of one’s conscience. Be a father to the poor. Every unkind sentiment towards another will only revisit hardship upon oneself, in kind. Aver conflict, and avoid antagonizing; always let reason guide you.

Think of Him, as giving [to us] good morals, rather than merely good behaviours, such that one is invested with a clear moral uprightness and not merely an agreeable presentation. Make oneself an honest man, rather than just a presentable one. If you blush at your own pettiness, it is arrogance.

Aspire [to understand] that it is not your position which honours or degrades you, but instead the manner by which you exercise it.

Finally, be happy – no matter the place or circumstance – with whatever one has, and in anything that one does. Rejoice in Justice. Repel inequity Endure without complaint. Do not judge, lightly, the actions of men. In no less degree, do not frivolously blame.

Cross Keys May. 2011

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland will this weekend celebrate a double anniversary.

The Grand Lodge of Scotland was founded on 30th November 1736 (Saint Andrew’s Day) by Scottish Lodges who desired to have a ‘head office’ and so was born one of Scotland’s oldest institutions. But that is not the whole story for Freemasonry has been in recorded existence since 1598 and probably came into being during the 15th century.

In April 1911 the foundation stone of the present Freemasons’ Hall was laid and on Saturday 9th April, 2011 a re-dedication was conducted by Bro. Rev. Iain Ramsden Grand Chaplain under the GDoC Bro. Ramsey McGhee in a very dignified ceremony. At the conclusion, brethren made their way to Murrayfield Stadium for a buffet. It must have made every brother of the Scottish Craft proud to walk into the rugby stadium at the pitch with both electronic screen showing the Grand Lodge emblem to the right.

500 brethren and families attended the buffet where speeches were limited mainly to the Grand Master Mason, the Grand Master of Ireland and a Baillie from Edinburgh. An excellent commemorative programme was available at the buffet which was very informative. There was a great atmosphere at the buffet and it was good to be part of this celebration particularly since we have a celebration in which the Grand Master Mason will conduct.

As part of the charitable activities of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, the GMM and various brethren made a presentation to the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) to mark a milestone of £500,000 which has been raised for CHAS by Scottish Freemasons since the charity began in 1992. The photograph on Page 11 shows the Grand Master Mason Bro. Charles Wolrige Gordon with embers of Grand Lodge accompanied by Eve, one of the brave young girls helped by CHAS. The whole celebrations were finished with a Multifaith Service of Thanksgiving held at Freemasons’ Hall on the Sunday where brethren representing four faiths read from their VSLs. It was well attended and enjoyed by everyone. This was a good example of Masonry Universal demonstrating that there are no bounds in the Craft.

Cross Keys May. 2011

From the Columns

The Joint Annual Divine Service with Lodge Craigends No. 1042 took place on 3rd April, 2011 in the lodge room. The service was conducted by Bro. Bill Shirlaw PG Chaplain in a most agreeable manner with a relevant sermon about King Solomon. About 50 brethren attended and this experiment to hold in the lodge rather than the church was worthwhile. Next year 1042 will host the service.

14th April was a special meeting for the lodge—it was the first In Memoriam lodge since 1963. The ceremony was conducted by Bros David M. Grimsley PM and Allan Stobo PM in a most dignified manner. It is hoped that this will be continued every couple of years.

On Friday 29th April the lodge hosted our friends from Croydon—Selsdon Park Lodge No.5005(EC) who exemplified the MM degree. The team of 11 brethren led by the WM Bro. Kevin Bryan exemplified the MMD on Bro. Grant Macleod PM Sec 242 who was the candidate on the evening. At the conclusion, the deputation from 5005 were well received for their labours and it was appreciated the effort in coming from London to join with our 200 years celebration. The front row shows masters and wardens from both lodges.

Cross Keys May. 2011

USS Kalb—a Masonic Ship?

The U.S.S. Baron De Kalb was named in honor of Baron Johann de Kalb, a German officer who served as a major general in Washington’s Army during the American Revolutionary War and a Freemason. The ship was laid down in 1861 and was originally named the U.S.S. St. Louis. Upon the discovery that another ship, operating off the East coast, had already been named St. Louis, she was re-christened U.S.S. Baron De Kalb September of 1862.

Although much is known about the De Kalb, the history of the ship betrays no clue as to why this apparently Masonic device appeared so prominently on her superstructure.

The ship’s log, a transcription of which resides at the Louisiana State University library in Baton Rouge, makes no mention of Freemasonry at all, and no anecdotal evidence exists that explains the Masonic connection. Deductive reasoning, however, led me to investigate her captain, who must surely have approved any such device appearing on his ship.

Lodge Captain Spiers No.791 Lodge Captain Spiers had an historic event on Tuesday 19th April, 2011. However, unlike most historic events, this is not a celebration. This meeting will be the last in the village hall in Houston before vacating the premises which are to be re-designed. PGL were present and there was also be a good turnout of brethren to support 791.

Cross Keys May. 2011

The Divine Service It is probably well worth saying that these are my personal thoughts and as ever may, in no way represent the views of Lodge of which I am a member although I would be surprised if any of what I have to say had not at some point crossed the mind of any of my Brethren or indeed anyone else who passes a critical eye over the Craft in general from time to time.

As most of you who read this will be aware it is the custom of most Lodges—certainly within the Scottish Constitution, to hold a Divine Service on an annual basis. This usually takes place within a place of worship near to the location where the Lodge meets or occasionally within the premises where the Lodge has its seat. In the case of my own Lodge it is usually held on a Sunday Morning at the local Church of Scotland. The church premises is modern and is largely considered one of the more comfortable places to worship within the town. There is no overtly Masonic bias to the Sermon, in fact now that I think of it, no Masonic bias at all or even the remotest reference to the Craft whatsoever apart from an introduction by the Minister in his general welcome to the Congregation, which I should explain with the exception of the Lodge are the usual Sunday Worshippers. Not that for a moment I’m suggesting that we should have any special recognition in what is after all a place where all are presumably present for the same solitary purpose. I’m quite certain this is how the vast majority of the congregation will view their weekly trip to church regardless of whether there are freemasons present one week of the year or not.

The issues which I wish to raise are not with the Congregation of the church or indeed with the Brethren who attend the Service, whether or not that may also happen to be their usual place of worship.

It has occurred to me that for those Brethren like me who would not usually attend church on a regular basis that this particular Sunday involves a wrestle with idealism.

Regalia is insisted upon and we are encouraged to put on a display of strength for the community. Am I the only freemason who feels uncomfortable here? It may very well be correct to put on a display of strength whenever the opportunity arises and there are scant little, if any days on the Masonic calendar where we display for the general public.

Does it follow that it is correct for me to exploit this opportunity to wear regalia which is representative of an order which although has at its roots steeped in the finest traditions of Christianity may be considered by some members of the Church as an awkward incompatibility with its teaching.

Cross Keys May. 2011

The Divine Service (ctd) ‚Awkward and Incompatible‛: I surely I owe you an explanation of what I am thinking, and here it is. Freemasonry owes its very existence to no particular sect or religion—we are all brothers regardless of the way we worship God providing that we all acknowledge his existence, no mention is ever made to any particular religious sect during our ceremonial save a brief mention in one of the lectures during the high and sublime degree and even this is a subject of argument amongst Masonic Scholars as to its particular reference. We exist as an Order free to all and equally free of doctrine. At least in principle.

Could it be possible therefore in the event of a Divine Service, for a Minister of a Christian Church where a such a Service is being held, to feel he is justified in making reference to the general subject of hypocrisy, if his Masonic guests were of no obvious or discernible faith other than the fact that he was aware that they were all members of a Lodge of Freemasons which would identify them as believers in a Deity of one sort or another?

Would the members of a Lodge who were not Christian stand guilty as charged having attended a Christian church for such a service simply for the purpose of putting on a ‚show of strength‛? Let me put it another way, how might I be viewed if I were to attend a Divine Service held at a Synagogue simply for the purpose of supporting a primarily Jewish Lodge bearing in mind that I am not Jewish and that my sole reason for attending would be to add my weight to their own show of strength. I am very likely to be made to feel more than welcome, the ceremony involved may be very interesting and educational but otherwise might not in any way, reflect my faith or religious views. Can I therefore be justified in attending such a service for the purposes of promoting freemasonry?

My point is this, are we as a Society correct to promote our aims and relationships as ostensibly non-denominational when we actively seek the approval of particular branches of Religion by our patronage of their services.? Furthermore, are the religions who allow us to attend their places of worship whilst we are dressed in the adornments of our order being just tolerant of us and do they really want us there at all?

By Bro. Garry Forbes PM ED: My thanks to Bro. Garry for making this contribution to the Cross Keys. It is interesting to note that both 242/1042 and GL have just held Divine Services within their own halls. I’m sure there are many brethren who have thoughts about this, but will any be bothered to comment?

Any thoughts to sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk Cross Keys May. 2011

GL News See pages 6 and 12.

PGL News Sunday 5th June, 2011—BBQ at the Marcus Humphrey Masonic Home in Bridge of Weir at 2pm. Mrs Dawn Oliff of Grand Lodge and Bros Neil Fraser & Ian McPhee Sub PGMs will have a sponsored walk from Paisley to the home stopping at some lodges on the way. It is hoped for a good turnout of brethren.

Saturday 18th June, 2011—PGM’s Charity Night (£5 per ticket) in the premises of Lodge Moorpark in Renfrew. It is part of Bro. David’s Caring & Sharing Campaign (which to date has been very successful) with monies going towards the two nominated charities of the lodges. It is a family event with a range of entertainment.

Lodge Thistle and Crowns meetings in May 2 0 1 1 will be held in the premises of Lodge Union and Crown No.3 0 7

Walking Tours of London Summer just around the corner why not have a day out in London seeing the sights and taking a walking tour ? Or are you coming to London on holiday this year?

I can create a bespoke tour for you suitable for everyone, including children. The City is quite a small place so we do not walk far and the tours will last between 1 ½ and 2 hours For more details please see the website www.walkingoldlondon.co.uk to contact Bro. Chris Nichols.

Cross Keys May. 2011

275th Anniversary of Grand Lodge

The photo shows Grand secretary Bro. David Begg (at the 5), then the Grand Master Mason Bro. Charles Wolrige Gordon, Past GMM Bro. Marcus Humphrey, Eva with her dad, Mrs Dawn Oliff (at the 0 next to the comma) then Immediate Past GMM Sir Archibald OrrEwing.

In the background is the GL logo on one of the large screens at Murrayfield.

Cross Keys May. 2011

Demonstration of Old Ritual On Monday 18th April, 2011, the Tri-Annual Communication of Provincial Grand Lodge took place in St. John’s Operative, Rutherglen at 7.30pm. Apart from the usual business for the Province which was conducted in a very proficient manner by Bro. David Reid PGM, Bro. Frank Johnstone’s demo team from Lodge The Royal Stewart No. 1414 gave their interpretation of a Benedictine ritual from 1425 leading to the Graham MS ritual of 1726 in terms of Noah (rather than HAB).

The team can be seen below with the PGM

(centre) accompanied by Bro. Archie Chalmers PGM Ayrshire with his Depute Bro. Robert Little who headed the deputation from visiting PGLs. Also in the deputation was Bro. Tom Leckenby PGM Dunbartonshire accompanied by his PG Sec Bro. David Irving on the right.

Our Heritage One important aspect of many Provincial Grand Lodges has been the focus of preserving old minute books. Essential it is, and worth looking at all avenues from where to store them, how to look after them, etc. We must also not forget that we agreed to preserve our ancient landmarks and that our real heritage is kept in the safe repository of faithful heart.

Cross Keys May. 2011

Masonic Apps

Masonic apps—who would have thought? Well the Grand Lodge of California has taken the bold step of producing their online magazine as an app. For young masons who use iphones, this is ideal and the presentation is good. Click on the image below for the itunes site. The Grand Lodge of Texas also has an app (free) which is a type of forum with some interesting articles.

Cross Keys May. 2011

Tsunami Appeal Grand Lodge has received a number of enquiries regarding donations towards disaster relief.

The Grand Lodge of Japan has issued the following statement: 'The [Grand Lodge] office has received numerous offers of donations to assist with the disaster relief and it must be emphasised that while we are not soliciting donations the sheer volume of offers has necessitated that we establish procedures where those so desiring can make donations in the most convenient manner. We have established a "Tsumani Relief Fund" here in the Grand Lodge of Japan for any donations to be deposited. We will coordinate with the government of Japan to determine where these funds might best be used. Donations which are to be made by check can be mailed to: Tokyo Masonic Centre Grand Lodge of Japan Tusnami Relief Fund 4-1-3 Shibakoen, Minato-ku Tokyo, Japan 105-0011 Those desiring to make direct deposits to our bank account can use the following: Bank Name: Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. Account Name: Roppongi Branch #045. Checking Account #0990008 Account Name: Grand Lodge of Japan, Grand Treasurer, EIICHI INAE Swift Code: BOTK JPJT'

Please do not send donation to the Grand Lodge of Scotland

May’s Events in 242

Saturday 7th May—Rebuilding King Solomon’s Temple at 5.30pm Tuesday 10th May—confer FCD at POW Renfrew Thursday 12th May—EAD by Garthland St. Winnoch No.205 at 7.30pm Thursday 19th May—confer MMD at 1167 in Barrhead’s lodge Thursday 26th May—FCD by St. Barchan No.156 at 7.30pm 200th Anniversary Saturday 6th august at 2.pm In the masonic hall, johnstone Sir William Wallace RAC 19th May—RA at 7.30pm

Cross Keys May. 2011

Jubilee Certificate The PGM of Lanarkshire Middle Ward Bro. James Jack presented a Jubilee Certificate to Bro. James Gregory, affiliate to 242, on his 50th year in the Craft. It was also the centenary of Lodge Heatheryknowe No.1461 in Bargeddie and there was 106 brethren in attendance with the collection raising over £200 and the raffle over £400.

Joint Venture On Saturday the 9th April the ladies of the Eastern Star and Sir William Wallace Royal Arch Chapter No.109 held a race night. It was a good night the and ladies raised the sum of £407 while the chapter raised £227. Thanks go to Bro. Sandy Graham for organising the races.

Reminder—Anniversary Items for Sale

The anniversary jewels have now arrived and can be bought at a price of £15 from Bro. Allan Stobo PM. Stamp sheets also available still at £15 from Bro. Sec.

Cross Keys May. 2011

Advance Notice The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East will hold another Education Dinner which will take place on 18th May, 2012. Although slightly early, please note the date in your diary. The first dinner with the Grand Master Mason as the only speaker was a great success and it is hoped to continue this format. The only speaker will be announced later and a question & answer session will follow.

The event will take place in the premises of our lodge and we are honoured to host this popular event.

Incorporation Visit

On 26th April, 2011 a representation from the Incorporation of Masons of Glasgow visited Lodge Pollock No.772 headed by the Deacon Bro. Iain J. Smith PM Tres 772. The group is pictured with the master of 772 Bro. Donald Marshall in Pollokshields Burgh Hall near Maxwell Park and various other well known faces. This building is worth visiting just to see some of the splendid masonic stained glass windows.

There was also a deputation from No.1 in Edinburgh and a very pleasant harmony followed where everything had to be drunk before the summer recess!

Have a happy and relaxing recess from all at Houstoun St. Johnstone.

Next edition September Cross Keys May. 2011

The Cross Keys is Edited and Researched by Brothers - Grant Macleod & Brian Kerr E-Mail:

sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk

Lodge Websites www.lodge242.co.uk www.lodge242.bravehost.com Thanks to Bro. Allan Stobo WJW for proof reading.

Don’t forget to support the Ashlar magazine— Scotland’s only Masonic magazine., especially with 242 on the front Just click on the magazine to find out more.

Cross Keys May. 2011