Lodge News

Long Road to Success

Never has the need for the generous support of the Masonic Charitable Foundation been so great. For one member of Guthlaxton Lodge, waiting for the return to lodge to support the MCF was not an option, instead he took to saddle and the footways to raise awareness and money.

Joe Johnson has been a Freemason since 2019, joining our fraternity just before the pandemic hit. Whilst his time with Guthlaxton Lodge No.7717 has been short, his commitment to Freemasonry and our charitable giving is something to be proud of. When the country was plunged into lockdown, Joe decided to take a stand by supporting those in need and began planning the gruelling route of a Lands End to John O’Groats journey, on foot and on bicycle. To attempt such a feat at this time of year would be fraught with the challenges of the weather conditions. However, not being able to venture far from his home, Joe took to the local streets and the static bicycle to rack up the 1083 miles it would usually take to traverse the entire length of the United Kingdom. An event of this magnitude takes a serious amount of planning, which Joe attempted to complete within a tenweek period. He is now over halfway, and on track to head to the virtual finish line very soon. The cycling is being carried out at home, using a spot bike, which is just as hard to peddle as a road bike, but avoids the biting winds we can get at this time of year. Rather than spending hours at a time on the treadmill for the running sections, Joe has been pounding the local streets around Broughton Astley to rack up his mileage. To ensure his efforts are not in vain, Joe and the lodge are looking for support to help raise money for the 2022 Festival. This can be done by heading to his MCF support page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ joejohnson22 or by contacting the lodge. Good luck Joe, what a fantastic effort.

Joe Johnson said,

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me, it has been very challenging but also very rewarding.

500 Recipe Bags Donated to Students

Wyggeston Lodge No.3448 has generously donated the ingredients needed to make a vegetarian curry with rice to 500 University of Leicester students during lockdown.

In conjunction with the University of Leicester Students’ Union, the unique ‘Recipe in a Bag’ has been distributed to those students hit hardest with the lockdown restrictions. These bags include individually portioned rice, chickpeas, tomatoes, potatoes, coconut milk, and chilli. The lodge also teamed up with Wigston News & Deli to provide the spice mix and the recipe which is included in each of the bags. The Master of Wyggeston Lodge, Alex Pohl said, “Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry. We are very mindful that students at the university have not been able to enjoy their university life to the full because of the coronavirus pandemic.” Alex continues, “Recipe boxes via subscription have really boomed in recent years particularly during 2020. As a small token, we’re delighted to put our own version of these recipe bags for students in self-catered accommodation so they can make and enjoy a tasty meal whilst in lockdown.” Andy Green, APGM said,

I’m very proud of the lodge who have come together to help create this initiative and deliver food to the student community in Leicester during the pandemic.”

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Not only have we not been able to attend our lodge meetings, we have also been absent from celebrating our Ladies’ Evenings. This didn’t stop the members of Knighton Lodge, who took to Zoom with all of the pomp and ceremony as if we were back together.

On the 5th December 2020, Dennis McCauley and the members of Knighton Lodge No.4711 opened up their wardrobes to take out their fineries for the first time in a long while to celebrate and enjoy a traditional Ladies’ Evening with a twist. The lodge is not one to be beaten, so they put their heads together to devise a format for enjoying the traditional evening within the comfort of their own homes.

For the first time in a while, the gentlemen dressed up in their dinner jackets, whilst the ladies dazzled with their elegant dresses and attire. Being the run up to Christmas, the backdrops and homes had that extra special festive glow. Dinner was served, wine was taken, and the conversation took on the familiar tone we are all used to when we meet in our respective venues for Ladies’ Evenings in previous years. The change to the usual format did not mean discarding the traditions of a Ladies’ Evening, there was even a rendition of the ladies’ song to bring a tear to the eye. However, the use of modern technology helped the evenings interaction, as even a WhatsApp group was set up to share pictures of the splendid meals throughout the evening.

David Highton, a guest for the

evening, said,

The evening was a great credit to all of you for pulling it together, it will serve as a great memory for Anne and I.

Support for Local Caterers from St. Wilfrid’s Lodge in Market Harborough

Earlier in 2020, members of St. Wilfrid’s Lodge in Market Harborough donated £700 to support the local catering firm who lost their income from the closed hall due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Although there is light at the end of the tunnel, it has still been a long period for small businesses to go without income. St. Wilfrid’s Lodge has again been active in raising funds to support Rival Catering, by donating a generous £1,030 made up from members putting their hands in their own pockets to raise the money, and also giving a donation of £120 from St. Peter’s Royal Arch Chapter, who also meet in Market Harborough. This amazing amount was doubled through the generosity of one member, John Townsend who made the donation up to a staggering £2,060.

The team in charge of Rival Catering immediately responded “We do not really know what to say, other than a massive thank you - a very generous amount and will go a long way with us. Anyway, please pass our appreciation onto all the lodge members that donated. It is very kind of you to think of us and continue to support us. We look forward to seeing you in the new year - fingers crossed.”

Temperantia Celebrations Temporarily on Hold

Many special occasions have had to be cancelled or postponed over the last twelve months; one such event is the Centenary Year Celebrations of Temperantia Lodge No.4088 in Leicester.

2020 was to be the centenary year, however with all the best laid plans devised during the preceding years to celebrate this wonderful achievement, they had to be either cancelled or put on hold. Whilst this is indeed a big disappointment, it is in fact only a slight inconvenience compared to the terrible losses and devastating effects of the virus throughout our fraternity and the world. However, there has been one ray of light which has sliced through this dark era. An integral part of our centenary celebration was to look outward, and to give something back to the community. We wanted to give something of real value, and yet worth more than money: something tangible and utilitarian and, at the same time, offering the opportunity to experience the tranquillity of a very special place. Designed and conceived as a place for rest, remembrance, and personal reflection, the Bradgate Park Memorial Wood has proved to be the perfect venue for our Commemorative Bench and Obelisks. The bench was specifically designed with a backrest for those who may require a little extra support. The two obelisks were designed to accommodate memorial oak leaves, similar to those already being displayed within the wood. Both obelisks and the bench have been constructed from solid English oak. The timber was provided by the park estate site from aged trees, no longer in a state to welcome visitors to the park, but perfect to continue in their new supporting role for generations to come. Having now been donated to Bradgate Park, they will be maintained and preserved by the Park Authority. The Bench is perfectly positioned for visitors to sit and take in the vista of the park in the foreground with the Cropston Reservoir beyond. It is a most delightful and tranquil setting. One of the obelisks has been donated to accommodate the memorial oak leaves of Brethren and their families, and the other is to be for general community use. So, despite all the upheaval and restrictions imposed throughout ‘Our Centenary Year‘, we still managed to achieve at least one of our objectives in 2020. However, the official unveiling is still to be arranged, and is subject to returning to normality, when we can meet with confidence once more. We are extremely proud to emphasise that this wonderful achievement, during such a debilitating period, has only been able to succeed due to teamwork. Our thanks go to all those involved, from the Provincial Grand Master, who introduced our Secretary, Jerry Kinder, to the representatives of the Bradgate Park Charitable Trust, and the ‘can do’ attitude of two ladies in particular from the Trust, namely Carolyn Holmes and Michelle Walker, who have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, especially as staff were furloughed and work curtailed during various lockdowns. It would be remiss of us not to mention the benefit we received of additional financial support by way of a matched donation from the Leicestershire and Rutland Masonic Charity Association, which allowed us to fully implement our planned community donation.

Arthur’s Chair

William Arthur Chambers was Initiated into Humber Stone Lodge No.7744 on 8th April 1975, later becoming Master in 1989. Arthur became an esteemed and very respected member of the Lodge and was promoted to Past Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies in 2002, and Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer in the Royal Arch in 2006. Sadly, he passed to the Grand Lodge above on 13th April 2006 aged 79, but bequeathed a substantial legacy to the Lodge.

As a result of Arthur’s generous legacy, there were many conversations at committee meetings about how to show our respect to his memory. Dean Newman of the lodge voiced the idea of an antique chair, to be used by all Master’s at the Festive Boards held at the Masonic Hall, Syston. It was agreed that this was a fantastic idea, and Dean was given the task of sourcing such a chair. With the assistance of Alan Coleman, another member of the Lodge, the search began for a suitable chair, of the size and quality required. After much searching, a truly magnificent example of fine carpentry, skill and quality was found. The chair had been crafted in 1928, in memory of the founder of a church in Wales and was duly purchased. It had an inscription referring to the Founder but not wanting to disrespect what had gone before, Robert McVey, also of Humber Stone Lodge, was asked to expertly renovate the chair and cover the inscription in a most professional manner. A detachable complimentary cushion is also being sourced. This shows how teamwork, listening to, and consulting with members of the lodge, is so important to success, even in Freemasonry. Arthur was an avid supporter of inviting visitors to lodge meetings, so our soon to be Master’s chair will be on full view to all visitors in who attend the Syston Masonic Hall. The text of the new plaque reads:

This chair was purchased in memory of W Bro W. Arthur Chambers, PPDGDC, PPGSwdB (RA). Humber Stone Lodge No.7744 ~ WM 1989 from part of a legacy he left to the Lodge in 1998. A true friend, great character, raconteur, and a faithful Brother to all who knew him.”

The Waiting Game

The consecration of the next lodge to join our Province, the Union of Rugby Lodge No.9989, is much publicised, however has suffered setbacks due to the current suspension of Freemasonry.

Individuals who are waiting to become members of the Union of Rugby Lodge have had the ultimate test of patience and dedication over the last year as they await to be welcomed into Freemasonry. The consecration of the lodge has been delayed further, from September 2020 to 2nd April 2022. Although we may well be meeting again in September, it is considered too close to the relaxation of rules to allow for as many guests, visitors, and members who have shown an interest in attending. Many individuals are waiting not only to join the lodge, but to join Freemasonry. This can be a long wait when it is unclear as to when we can resume welcoming new members again. The commitment and enthusiasm are clear for all to see. Many of our potential new members have been working hard to raise money for the 2022 Festival, raising money by whatever means they can. A raffle was the first fund raising event to take place, amassing a magnificent £900, to which the proposed lodge topped up to make it £1,000. This was followed up with a further event, which raised £600. The host ground for our Light Blues Rugby Club is the Vipers RFC, who were desperately in need of a defibrillator machine. Money was raised by our members to help secure the funds for this worthy cause. The Provincial Grand Master, Peter Kinder, and the Provincial Grand Secretary, Paul Wallace will be presenting this to the club as soon as restrictions are lifted.

A further six individuals are waiting to be interviewed, all of these have come from local rugby clubs which the Leicestershire Rugby Union have supported. Under the guidance from the Provincial team, zoom meetings have been encouraged to keep the momentum going, which the potential members have been eagerly participating in.

COVER STORY: Freemasons Volunteer for Vaccination Drive

Freemasons have begun to roll up their sleeves and volunteer to help vaccinate the population.

To help protect all UK citizens during this difficult time, Freemasons around the country have offered their time to help administer the vital jabs and assist with the logistics to keep the centres running seven days a week. In Leicestershire & Rutland, many of our members are rising to the challenge, and using their valuable free time to train and assist with the national programme. For example, Steve Davison of the Lodge of the Holywell No.7827 in Loughborough, who is also the Assistant Grand Master of the Mark degree, has been volunteering his time to help with the logistics. At first Steve was convinced he would be in the carpark directing traffic; however, his skills were put to test on the reception desk and at the exit of Loughborough Hospital. Steve said, “The atmosphere at the hub is so friendly and happy with all of our ‘customers’ being very grateful for the jab. I’m looking forward to the next shift.”

Another Loughborough Freemason, Ian Hammond from the Howe & Charnwood Lodge No.1007, is putting his excellent people skills to good use by making visitors to centres in Leicestershire and also Derbyshire feel comfortable, as often when they arrive, they are very anxious before having the injection. Ian also has been helping filter the increased traffic into and out of the car parks. Ian said, “I find it very rewarding when talking to the people as they arrive for their jabs. I have also been on the NHS volunteer check and chat since March last year, helping those who are self-isolating.” Dennis Crommentuijn of the Rothley Temple Lodge No.7801 has been all over the East Midlands, supporting the vaccination centres as a carer, vaccinator, and helping with recovery. Dennis began his work in late February, after completing his training with St. John’s Ambulance, and is now making a real difference to the local communities.

Dennis said, “The hustle and bustle at the centre is overwhelmingly positive. On a single shift there are more than fifty professionals from all corners of the NHS and a number of volunteers from the local area, and also a few

from St. John’s Ambulance. It is a joy to be part of this professional and dedicated team and making a difference for the individuals who attend and the larger society. We vaccinate between 600 – 1600 people, depending on what day it is. Every person is treated as an individual, from the moment they arrive, until they leave. Some are scared, some upbeat, some need a virtual hug. But they all have the same characteristics in common. They all choose to be there. They all get vaccinated. They all are happy and relieved once they have had their vaccine. This is a great moral and emotional boost to all. This is what freemasonry is all about. Be good and do good, for yourself and your community. I look forward to continuing my support as long as my skills are needed.”

Dennis, Ian, and Steve join many other members of our Province in supporting the NHS deliver and administer the vaccinations at an unprecedented pace. Dr David Staples, chief executive of UGLE, said, “In 2018, more than 18.5 million hours of volunteer work were undertaken by Freemasons. Now that we have the vaccine in the UK, it is crucial that we help in every way we can to protect the population. If the NHS needs people, then we are happy to encourage and emphasise the importance of this to our members. We want to support the NHS and show our gratitude for its people’s efforts and the amazing job they have done during the pandemic. Freemasons always stand behind our core values of friendship, integrity, charity and respect – and we are proud to help so many people.” In addition to the £1m donated in 2020, the Freemasons have committed a further fund of £2.1m to support the ongoing Covid-19 crisis response. Of that £2.1m, £850,000 has been allocated to support homeless people through several charities with which UGLE partners. More than 40,000 homeless individuals are being provided with food and essentials, transport, help with accessing services such as counselling and healthcare, as well as employment and training opportunities.

Dr. David Staples,

Grand Secretary said,

We want to support the NHS and show our gratitude for its people’s efforts and the amazing job they have done during the pandemic.

The Continuing Importance of Learning & Development

Education. The word strikes fear into some and ambition into others. We are plunged into the world of formal education from the earliest of ages and continue until eighteen. Some choose to continue; others choose a different path. From infancy we are taught to read, write, and calculate and later in life we try to make sense of unending passages of archaic texts that seem to have an aversion to punctuation – of any kind!

But there are those who try to make sense of these texts and choose to open up a conversation that aims to explain the finer nuances of the familiar words we recite.

And so, it is with St Deny’s Lodge No.8276, who formed a ‘study group’ seven years ago, under the stewardship of John Cappin. John would graciously open up his house to a likeminded group of Freemasons, who would discuss papers ranging from the practical uses of working tools to the evolution of our aprons; even tackling the age-old question of women in Freemasonry! The group would meet at John’s house around six times a year, until his passing in 2016. From then on, a group of eight or nine continue to meet regularly to this day. In his memory the group meet under the title of the ‘John Cappin Memorial Discussion Group’. Today, the group meet in each other’s houses and deliver papers across an array of themes relating to Freemasonry; the group listen then discuss the presentation, ask questions, and then have further discussions, including tips on learning ritual and the joys of visiting. Over the past year, with all lodge activities suspended, the group have gone from strength to strength, meeting virtually over the marvel of Zoom. Although the supply of tea, biscuits and cakes may not have been as plentiful, the group still continue to share their love for all things relating to Freemasonry. Papers delivered have been diverse, varying from ‘Masonry in Cuba and the Caribbean, Russia and Gibraltar’ to ‘Music in Masonry’. Furthermore, extracts from transactions of the Lodge of Research No.2429, of which John Cappin was a longstanding member, are also delivered and discussed.

This has been in large part, and with grateful thanks, to Marion Cappin, John’s widow, who kindly passed on all his records. As a result, the group have been able to continue to expand their knowledge on a variety of subjects, such as the meaning of the movement around the lodge room and the history of Provincial Grand Lodge names. One of the virtues of Freemasonry is the ability to visit, and nowhere is this more evident than when Freemasons are able to visit lodges at Christmas time. Due to the work undertaken by St Deny’s Lodge, brethren are able to listen to a full lecture at their Christmas Festive board. So, if you have the time and the date is free, it may be worth the cost of a festive board to listen to a well-researched, masonic themed lecture.

This should be only the beginning of a journey, started by John, for us all to undertake. We give thanks to John and honour his legacy by ensuring that education, in all its forms, is lifelong; it should be valued and incorporated into our daily lives, where we should make daily advancement. Even if that means tackling archaic texts with an aversion to a full stop or two!

Elliot Harris, St Deny’s Lodge

Chaplain, said,