Leicester Square - Issue 22 (Summer 2009)

ISSUE NO. 22 SUMMER 2009

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE • WELCOME TO FREEMASONRY

• 2012 UPDATE

• ROYAL ARCH MATTERS

• MASONIC CENTRE UPPINGHAM

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SEPTEMBER 2nd Hall Committee Meeting 10th Craft DC’s Meeting 11th Craft Secretaries Meeting 11th Craft General Purposes Meeting 22nd Library & Museum AGM OCTOBER 11th Royal Arch Church Service NOVEMBER 18th Royal Arch Open Evening 27th Craft Provincial Grand Lodge DECEMBER 13th Craft Carol Service APRIL 2010 30th Holmes Temple Centenary

PROVINCIAL WEBSITE

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on’t forget to visit the Provincial website for the latest Craft, Royal Arch and 2012 updates. www.pglleics.co.uk

From the Editor

Thank you for your positive comments on the last Issue of Leicester Square.

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n order that we continually strive to improve the content and be of value to you… please do send in your suggestions, error spottings and of course articles for inclusion. This publication is only of use if you benefit by enjoying reading the contents, which in turn encourages you to share your story with others and thus perpetuate the benefit of information.

As part of a regular feature, I will feature our Masonic Centres… so please let me have your story to share. Next deadline for stories will be 30th September 2009

Henry Kukiewicz Editor

CONTENTS ISSUE 22

2012 Festival Update from the Festival Director ..... 4

Provincial Fun Quiz 2009 .... 5

Sir John Corah Lodge ............ 7

2012 Events .......................... 7

Freemasonry Afloat ............... 8

Sparkenhoe 8063 ................ 9

Long Service Celebration Awards for the Two Normans ............ 10

Pauper’s Supper .................. 11

Entertaining the Residents .... 11

Welcome to Freemasonry .. 12

Masonic Centre Feature; Uppingham, HOWZAT!!! ...... 14

Temperantia Lodge Truly An International Lodge ....... 16

Thomas Burton Lodge Charity Experiment ............... 17

The Eleventh Hour .............. 18

Succesful Launch of Royal Arch Initiative ............... 19

CONTACT THE EDITOR Henry Kukiewicz 50 St Peters Road, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 7DX TEL: 01298 213353 MOBILE: 0789 505 5321 EMAIL: henrykuk@hotmail.co.uk

NEXT ISSUE OF LEICESTER SQUARE November 2009

Royal Arch Church Service ... 21

Part of the Lance Publishing Group

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Lanceprint

Charnwood Chapter Celebrate ............... 20

ADVERTISING SALES BY Christina Mclean TEL: 01536 526667 EMAIL: christina@lancepublishing.co.uk

Whilst the greatest of care has been taken in compiling this news letter, the editor, designer, publisher and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Leicestershire and Rutland cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions that may occur. Editorial opinions expressed in the newsletter are not necessarily those of the editor, publisher or the Provincial Grand Lodge of Leicestershire and Rutland. Provincial Grand Lodge does not accept any responsibility for the advertising content.

Provincial Grand Lodge of Leicestershire & Rutland, 80 London Road, Leicester LE2 0RA.

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

W.Bro. David’s first thought was to form an Events Committee comprising a team of designated persons each responsible for a group of Lodges thus ensuring a liaison point for every Lodge in the Province. This Committee has then coordinated events and spread the word throughout the Province.

The initiatives emanating from this group under VW.Bro. David’s Chairmanship have raised the profile of the Festival. This has resulted in the funds raised in the last nine months totalling £350,000 compared with £314,000 in the previous 18 months. This latter sum included an amount of monies already earmarked for the Festival and a large number of donations for the full five year period paid 4

TEL: 01509 673157 MOBILE: 07860 285186 EMAIL: jpeberdy@aol.com

CONTACT DETAILS: 38 Park Lane Sutton Bonington Loughborough Leicester, LE12 5NH

John Peberdy Festival Director

in advance. The increased amount is due to a substantial surge in donations both from individual members and fund raising events of Lodges I feel that this is a tremendous achievement and am sure with VW.Bro David at the helm we will reach our target of £1.5 million.

I have previously reported in the Leicester Square that in May 2008 the Provincial Grand Master asked the Deputy Provincial Master VW.Bro. David Hagger to become Vice Chairman of 2012 Festival with a view to using his experience to reinvigorate the Festival.

2012 FESTIVAL UPDATE FROM THE FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

RMBI

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A 2012 Festival Message from the Deputy Provincial Grand Master I would like to start this message with a big thank you to all the Brethren who have responded to the various fund raising events and initiatives during my first nine months as Festival Vice Chairman.

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s at the end of April we have raised over £745,000 all of which has been sent to the RMBI and is earning the extra notional interest available from them towards our target. This, together with the interest, actually puts us on target this far into our Festival.- So thank you once again.

However we must not become complacent as we all know our target of £1.5 million is a very stretching one and we have to keep up our efforts over the next three years to enable us to achieve our goal.

My Events Committee, to whom I am very grateful, will be bringing forward new fund raising ideas regularly but we will try to ensure that there are not too many calls on your generosity at any one time. I am very impressed by the individual events of Lodges and of all the Brethren who are giving by Gift Aid on a regular basis. Thank you all for your generosity and also to those Brethren throughout the Province who have given prizes for our fund raising events, it is very much appreciated.

I wish to remind Brethren that the Festival Stewards Jewel is available to any Brother once he has donated £100 to the Festival. These are available to purchase at a cost of £20 complete with a pocket holder and case or £15 without. The qualification and purchase of the Festival Stewards Jewel is a requirement to be able to apply for tickets to attend the Banquet in May 2012.

The Festival tie has been designated the official Provincial tie by the Provincial Grand Master.

On my visits to Lodges I notice a number of Brethren wearing them, but there are still those who are not and I encourage Brethren to purchase one for £15 as these will also be part of the dress code at the Banquet.

I would like to thank Tony Rudge who has handled the sale of the ties until he asked to be relieved of this task last month. Alan Johnson has agreed to deal with the sale of ties in the future and his contact details are at the end of this message.

I would also like to thank all those Brethren who have bought the Breast Cancer Research pins, the profits from which will be equally split between Breast Cancer Research and the 2012. So far we have sold 1250 and further supplies are available from my office.

You will receive with this edition of Leicester Square an application form to purchase a Provincial Diary and Calendar, an advance notice of a Craft Fair to be held at London Road on 5th December 2009 and also another application form for the Festival Jewel.

Finally Brethren, thank you all once again for getting our 2012 Festival back on target, but please keep up your efforts to make sure we achieve our £1.5 million target, to help maintain the RMBI homes like Devonshire Court for those who need our support.

CONTACT DETAILS: V. W. Bro David Hagger EMAIL: provsec@pglleics.co.uk Festival Stewards Jewel Mike Kellett TEL: 0116 2592682 Festival Ties Alan Johnson TEL: 0116 2773666

PROVINCIAL FUN QUIZ 2009

(IN AID OF 2012 FESTIVAL)

The first Provincial Fun Quiz got off to a flying start with Hinckley hosting their heat on 16th February. The winners were Knights of Malta Lodge (50) and the other qualifiers for the Final, from this heat, were Burbach Lodge (8699).

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ondon Road was the venue for the Leicester Lodges with two heats on 23 rd and 24th February, with 18 teams on each night battling for the honour of qualification. There were some very innovative team names, with perhaps St. Crispin Lodge having the most apt title of ‘A Load of Cobblers’ – St. Crispin being the patron saint of shoemakers! Everyone entered into the spirit of the event, with FUN and ENJOYMENT being the prime motivator for most teams. There was, however, still a competitive edge which kept the Quiz Masters on their toes!! The Quiz Masters were ably assisted by the scorers, the lovely Samantha on the first night and Carol on the second, aka Barrie Bishop.

The victors on the first night were Lodge of Welcome 5664 2nd team and on the second night ‘Knighton Know Knotes’ from Knighton Lodge 4711.

Market Harborough held their heat on March 5th when five teams met to decide which of them would be going forward to the Final. After an enjoyable evening, ‘Chapter’ from St. Peters Lodge 1330 emerged victorious, closely followed

THE OTHER QUALIFIERS WERE:

St. John’s Lodge 279 The Latecomers & The Evangelists Commercial Lodge 1391 Jammi Granite Lodge 2028 Chips off the Old Block Wyggeston Lodge 3448 Wyggie Wallies & Wyggie Wallopers Halford Lodge 3919 The Halford Dozen Temperantia Lodge 4088 Stewards Ruin Lodge of Welcome 5664 1st team Newarke Lodge 6794 Fenfolk and Friends Greyfriars Lodge 6803 Secretary’s Six Lodge of the Round Table 7762 The Square Tablers

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by ‘The Oaks’ from Vale of Catmos Lodge 1265 and both teams qualify for the Final.

Loughborough Masons are holding their heat on 20 th April, and at the time of going to press the qualifiers are unknown.

Many thanks to all the teams who entered and we hope that you all enjoyed the evening. Congratulations to the qualifying teams who go forth to battle out the Grand Final on Friday 29 th May.

Knighton Lodge (4711) are the first ever winners of this Provincial Trophy, the Vale of Catmos (1265) were runners up.

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

TYRES • EXHAUSTS • BATTERIES SPARES •ACCESSORIES

TEL: 0116 277 5452

LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

Tel: 0116 277 5452 • Fax: 0116 277 2932 Email: info@ktmc.co.uk 124A Countesthorpe Road, South Wigston Leicester LE18 4PR

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for £10,000 to the Deputy Provincial Grand Master/Festival Vice Chairman as a further payment to their previous years contribution of the same amount. With the guaranteed additional interest rate of 1.75% over base rate this will generate even further valuable funds towards the Festival.

Although the Lodge has already exceeded its target, the Lodge will continue its commitment to the Festival in raising funds to this most needy cause.

The Lodge also held its annual Childrens’ Xmas party in December where invited children & their mothers from a local Family Centre joined Coalville based Lodges members’ children and grandchildren for an afternoon of entertainment, cakes, jelly, pop as well as a visit from Father Christmas with a present for all the children.

Grace Dieu Events 89 Brethren, wives and visitors of Grace Dieu Lodge (2428) sat down to a five course Lunch in November (12th year annual event).

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Raffle, guess the reindeer’s birthday quiz and knowledge quiz raised £380 for the 2012 Festival and £350 for Lodge funds… but as importantly, everyone had a splendid day together.

SIR JOHN CORAH LODGE

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uring their December meeting, the brethren of Sir John Corah Lodge 7736 presented a cheque

2012 Events

PIG ROAST & BBQ

(Lutterworth Lodges) Sunday 19th July 2009 Steepleton, Lodge Farm

CONTACT: W Bro A Watling (01455 556868) tandjwatling@hotmail.com

SUMMER GARDEN PARTY

(Highcross Lodge) Sunday 2nd August 2009, 12:30pm Field Head, 198 Station Rd, Cropston

CONTACT: V.W. Bro David Hagger (0116 2374299) hagger@talktalk.net

SUMMER BALL

Burley House, Oakham June 2010

CONTACT: W.Bro Keith Crellin keithcrellin@btconnect.com or (07885917681)

CRAFT FAIR

(London Road) Saturday 5th December 2009

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

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entertaining. It was a great night, enjoyed by all and we managed to raise a staggering £800 to be donated to a number of charities.

Steve Knight Worshipful Master Sparkenhoe 8063

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– 7p m 7. 30am ) y - Friday (Monda day) m (Satur 8am – 7p m – 12.30p 8.30am day) (Sun

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Sparkenhoe 8063

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• General Hardware For your DIY needs and emergencies

• Newsagency Newspapers, cards for all occasions and much more inside.

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A Traditional Style Village Shop

We had three sessions of the Barbers quartet before the main course and before the sweet and at the end of the evening.The Barbers shop quartet called Soclose, added a few jokes and a bit of humour when they asked all the audience to join in. They were very

On Saturday the 25th of April we held a Barbers Shop evening for Sparkenhoe 8063 lodge and friends.

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eld at the lodge rooms Hinckley. approx 70 people attended, we hade a dinner of Bangers and Mash, and sweet to follow... all served by the Senior Steward Mr Colin Brink and his wife and assistants.

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FERRERS & IVANHOE LODGE NO 779

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s part of its ongoing nautical freemasonry in the community Ferrers and Ivanhoe Lodge (779) made a £250 donation to the Peter Le Marchant Trust (based in Loughborough) who have for over 30 years provided day outings and holidays on waterways for people of all ages with any kind of disability or serious illness.

MAIN STREET, ULLESTHORPE TEL: 01455 209 292

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

Special Offer quote when booking Leicester Square.

Complete with free use of our own 7 seater run around car!!!*

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Freemasonry Afloat

Paul Wallace Castle of Leicester Lodge No 4045

charity which was, unsurprisingly I suppose, the RNLI. A splendid evening was had by all and a souvenir brochure of the event was produced by the ship’s studio recording the names of all who took part. There was a bit of a twist in the tail.

The Captain could not attend personally because of a clash with another function, and he asked the Executive Purser (basically the hotel manager in landlubbers terms) to receive the donation on his behalf. It turned out that, whilst not being a Freemason himself, this officer has been educated at the Masonic Boy’s School and therefore had his own personal connection with the Craft.

This is probably a story well known to a lot of our readers.

I’m sure many other Brethren have been to similar function on the high seas and will have their own personal recollections of these happy occasions.

On a recent cruise on the P&O ship Artemis, I saw in the ship’s newspaper one day, an invitation for all Freemasons to meet in one of the bars one morning on a sea day. I’ve seen these advertisements before, but have always resisted the urge to go and see what was happening. On this occasion I overcame my natural shyness and went along.

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

ighteen Brethren had assembled and, after some initial shuffling of feet and exchanges of fraternal greetings, we got down to business. Requests were made for a serving Secretary to identify himself. I was foolish enough to volunteer. After appointing a President, DC and Treasurer it was then resolved to hold a Masonic cocktail party to which would be invited the Brethren, their wives and partners and any Masonic widows that may be aboard.

After liaising with the Bar Manager, and certain other of the ship’s company, invitation cards were produced and an advert placed in the newspaper for any widows who might like to attend.

The cocktail party duly took place with all eighteen of us and our partners, but unfortunately without any widows. The Brethren all made a donation towards the cost of the evening which paid for some wine and nibbles and the surplus, £260, was donated to the Captain’s 8

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P LY VE

LONG SERVICE CELEBRATION AWARDS FOR THE TWO NORMANS

list each father wanted his son to be the first initiate.

W.Bro. Heaton made a hear tfelt appeal to the Committee of Founders.

This delicate situation was resolved by W.Bro. Gascoyne who declared that he would initiate both candidates at the same meeting.

Norman went on to become Worshipful Master

Norman F. Pettit was initiated on Tuesday 2nd November 1948 by W.Bro. Gascoyne at the first regular meeting of the Edward Sherrier Lodge. On the summons he was described as a student aged 25.

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

his was the first and last occasion on which a double initiation had been held at the Edward Sherrier Lodge. Norman was a Lewis, proposed by his father W.Bro. JH Pettit, Asst. DC. However, the Secretar y W.Bro. Frank Heaton had also proposed his son William. Although Norman was first on the 10

Above

The RW.Bro Michael Roalfe (PGM) with W.Bro Norman where his 60 th year award was made Pictured Left

Photograph is of W.Bro Norman Firban being presented with his 50 th year certificate by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master

in 19 57 and has since ser ved the Lodge as Treasurer, Almoner and Chaplain. During his lengthy membership of the Lodge, he has missed only a handful of meetings.

W.BRO T NORMAN FIRBAN, celebrated his 50 th anniversar y in Freemasonr y on 26 th November 20 0 8.

Both W.Bro Normans are also members of a number of Masonic orders of which they both hold Provincial and Grand ranks and are founder members of various lodges/chapters.

Pauper’s Supper

then closed the event by presenting a £260 cheque to Devonshire Court to be used for future activity events for the residents

The Lodge of Welcome (5664) shared a dinning event (bangers & mash) at Devonshire Court during August with the residents.

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ld and new acquaintances were cemented and made, with stories exchanged which ensured that all present had a wonderful and memorable evening. The Provincial Grand Master took the opportunity to present W.Bro. Bob McRory with a 50 years Masonic service certificate (who at the time had just become a resident) RW.Bro. Michael Raolfe then gave an oration of Bob’s devotion and dedication to the Masonic cause. 3 “Masonic cheers” were then given to him by all there and the WM (W.Bro. Bill Lee)

Devonshire Court Appeal

CONTACT DETAILS: Vickie Nicolello TEL: 0116 271 4171

event. (Just two hours will make all the difference to enhancing their twilight lives.)

The residents appreciate the time and effort that Lodges continue to give in coming to Devonshire Court and providing entertainment.

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f your Lodge has not yet considered spending a couple of hours during one evening, afternoon or weekend… then please do contact the Home and offer to sponsor and/or provide an entertainment

GRANITE LODGE SUPPORTS PROSTaid

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uring December Granite Lodge (2428) received acknowledgement of their recent generous donation of £900 to Prostaid. This is a local charity trying to improve the treatment and awareness of prostate cancer.

This charity has and continues to be supported by the Province as well as other Masonic side degrees.

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Entertaining the Residents

Gayton Taylor Lodge No.9176 hosted a coffee morning on Saturday 9 th May 2009 for the residents of Devonshire Court RMBI home at Oadby.

he event was well attended and a raffle held raised nearly £70 for the residents’ amenities fund.

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Pictured from left to right are: W Bro John Orgill (Secretary) Bro Don Jones (IG) W Bro Malcolm Talbot (Master) W Bro David Butler (DC) and Bro Jim Sherlock (SW) who organised the event. Also in this picture are shown the wives and granddaughter who helped out at the coffee morning.

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

On completion of the different tours/presentations, all 6 groups were brought together again for a fine buffet and continue the question/answer dialogue with the Provincial Grand Master finishing off the evening by thanking those who had attended as well as those who had taken an active part in making this event worth doing.

• Masonic Regalia

• Library and Museum artefacts, facilities and resources

• Masonic Charities and the Almoner

Subjects covered included:• Description of the Holmes Temple

fter checking in (badges & information packs issued) and having a quick refreshment, the Provincial Grand Master welcomed over 90 attendees who were then split into 6 groups and taken on separate tours of the Lodge Rooms, Library/Museum and Exhibition to receive a wide range of presentations. Careful planning & stewarding ensured that no groups crossed paths??

WELCOME TO FREEMASONRY A

LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

Initiates’ Evenings have taken place over ten years to help Initiates and their wives or partners to gain an greater understanding of Freemasonry in general and especially that of the Province. On Friday 30 th January 2009, another such annual event took place at Freemasons’ Hall, Leicester and neither hosts nor participants came away disappointed.

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COMMENTS REPORTED ON THE EVENING:“I assumed I knew quite a bit about the Building but I certainly know twice as much now” “The Charitable side of Leicestershire Freemasonry knows no bounds, I just didn’t realise what support there was for Freemasons and their dependants” “Made some new friends this evening who are at the same stage of Masonry and hopefully we’ll visit each other at each others Lodge” “I feel that my husband and I will have a clearer understanding that this organisation is inclusive and we can both get involved in Masonic related activities” “The questions put to me this evening, clearly show that there is a hunger for information and hopefully they’ll keep asking?”

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

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MASONIC CENTRE FEATURE; UPPINGHAM

HOWZAT!!!!!

There has and continues to be a healthy dialogue between the 3 orders and particular so a couple of years ago, when the thatched roof was set alight by vandals. Although the roof wasn’t destroyed, there was substantial smoke damage to the Lodge furnishings and particularly the Warrants and Charters of the Mark and Chapter were almost completely destroyed with almost barely an A5 size section remaining. For a number of meetings they had to operate with those charred remains until replacements were obtained from London.

This must be one of the most unusual Masonic Centres not only in the Province but maybe in the country.

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

rom September through to February, the building is the home of Uppingham in Rutland Lodge (9119), Chapter (9119), Multum in Parvo Lodge of Mark Masons (1775), whilst during the Spring through to Autumn it is the home of Uppingham School Cricket pavilion.

The Lodges and Chapter have collectively been there for over ten years and are now well versed in changing the furniture between the different meetings and orders. At the close of the season all furniture/regalia etc has to be packed away into storage and then at the open of the season has to be unloaded.

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The membership of the 3 orders are not restricted to Rutland Masons but come from wide and far, Manchester, Buxton, Warwickshire, Devon, Leicester, Melton, Northants and all have regular visitors from those strangers from Leicestershire who are always very warmly greeted.

Dining used to be a walk away at a local hotel but due to growing unsuitability all currently dine at Lyddington a few minutes drive away.

Visitors are always warmly welcome… so please get one of the members to invite you… if not just turn up and join in.

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THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

TEMPERANTIA LODGE

TRULY AN INTERNATIONAL LODGE

to Temperantia Lodge and who after due enquiries was initiated into that Lodge.

On average, the Provincial Secretary receives two such enquiries a month from the website, so if your Lodge is interested in considering potential new members from such a source…please contact his office!!!

17th April 2009 saw the initiation of Bro Jose D’Silva (a Portuguese from Madeira) who was taken round the Lodge by Junior Deacon Bro Anton Tarsha (a Palestinian from Jerusalem) assisted by senior Deacon bro Eric Carveth (a Welshman from Llanberis, North Wales). This was a truly international evening followed by a Festive Board with a Portuguese flavour.

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

Bro Anton Tarsha, Bro Jose D’Silva, Bro Eric Carveth

Left to Right

ackground feature was that Bro D’Silva approached the Provincial Secretary’s office after having visited the Provincial website. After a tour of Freemasons’ Hall and an overview and expectations of Freemasonry and him expressing further interest, he was introduced

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PRIOR TO PRIOR

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E Kt David Walters (KTProvincial Prior) made a presentation of a decanter and statuette to his predecessor RE Kt Ted Bramford at Provincial Priory on 9th February to commemorate his ten year service to the Province in that office.

NEW HEAD OF ORDER

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.Ill. Knight Max Bayes was installed as the Intendant General of the Red Cross of Constantine of the East Midlands Division in sucession to R.Ill Michael Roalfe having held that office for over ten years.The Division is geograhically spread from Ashby, across to Peterborough and down to Dunstable and has seven Conclaves within the Division.

DO YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR RITUAL??

Leicester Union Lodge of Instruction was originally established in 1846 and after a period of rest, was re-constituted in 1991.

THOMAS BURTON LODGE CHARITY EXPERIMENT

variations on ritual workings.)

Questions raised are answered by the Preceptors (Director of Ceremonies) either on a 1:1 basis or as a business item, with extended versions of ceremonies explained in detail.

If you are interested in finding out more, please do contact any of the seven Lodges of Instruction in the Province (listed on page A-238 of the 2008-9 Blue Book)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION W.Bro MJ Harris Charity Steward

the existing structure of those Charitable Masonic Institutions.

Knowledge aids understanding and in these harsh economic times when it is important that we do all we can to support and help those charities which depend on us to maintain the standards they have achieved for those who need help.

In order to familiarise Brethren of the Lodge (both established and newer members!!) the Lodge asked the newer members to organise and present a lecture to the Lodge. This lecture would cover the various Charities purpose, functionality and outputs with particular reference to the Masonic membership.

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our teams were organised to individually describe the four main charities (RMBI, NMSF, RMTBG, and the Grand Charity) at the Lodge’s March meeting to both members and visitors.

This unique method of gaining and imparting knowledge has proved to be most beneficial to those who have given freely without necessarily knowing how their donations were being used and likewise for the junior Brethren who have likewise not necessarily been fully exposed to

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his Lodge now regularly meets with a membership of 80.

Annual subscriptions are £10 per annum. with a modestly costed buffet to follow with an informal dress code.

The main objective is to give Master Masons the opportunity to work any office through to the Chair through any of the 3 degrees. (Account is taken of different Lodge’s

Deaf CANDIDATE

At a recent meeting of the Leicester Union Lodge of Instruction, guidance and tuition was given on an Initiation ceremony of a deaf candidate so that he could actively participate as any other candidate.

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he acting candidate was Bro. Simon Sharman (who himself is deaf but fully able to lip read). For this purpose a number of adjustments were made, with minor detraction from the prescribed ritual and with the additional mentoring by the Junior Deacon on the evening pre arranged to the ceremony itself.

The critical issue is to involve the person themselves prior to the meeting (without divulging any of the ceremonial processes/ activities) so that they can best inform what adjustments need to be considered to address the individual’s needs during the ceremony, which will then minimise any hiccups along the way and in doing so, they get the full enjoyment of the experience!!! (most adjustments need the minimum of consideration)

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

THE ELEVENTH HOUR A clock restoration team is in the final stages of completing their task.

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LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

he All Saint’s automaton clock, which will be the focal point of the redevelopment of the Highcross part of the City Centre, has been lovingly restored over the last year by this team of experts. They recently had a ‘dry run’ where the clock face and mounting brackets were tested by inserting the clock onto its mounts.

All appears well and it is hoped that the final work will receive national coverage on television in the near future. Leicestershire 18

& Rutland Freemasons can take pride in supporting this project, knowing that they have assisted the restoration of a clock that has been out of service for 30 years, CONTACT DETAILS: W.Bro Richard White EMAIL: richardwhite@supernet.com TEL: 0116 279 3300

Farewell W BRO PHILIP MORRIS 2028/7896

BRO GEORGE TOWERS 7827 W.BRO PETER MACFARLANE 6406 W.BRO WILLIAM PARRY 9285 BRO MATTHEW HIBBS 5208 W.BRO HERBERT TASSELL 2028/5061 W.BRO EDMUND JACOBS 7827 BRO TREVOR STOW 1130

BRO CLIFFORD COWEY 7736 W.BRO SIDNEY BENNETT 50/7204 W.BRO MICHAEL BREAM 7841 BRO MARTIN TAYLOR 8699 W.BRO BARRY RICHARDSON 3431/7896 W. BRO ROBERT MCCRORY 2429/3431/5664/7762/7896/8013 BRO NOEL GILSON 4711 W.BRO SATYA KHOSLA 4945/7671/7896/8210/8842 W. BRO DAVID VICKERS 1772/4711 W.BRO B AUSTICK 7832 W.BRO GERARD CAFFREY 6757/7736 W.BRO PETER RYALL 3448/9673 BRO MICHAEL ANDREWS 5061 W.BRO GRAHAM PRICE 4874/7896

BRO DENNIS HANCOCK 6596

W.BRO PHILIP SNODIN 8033

W.BRO MALCOM USHER 5664

ROYAL ARCH MATTERS SUCCESFUL LAUNCH OF ROYAL ARCH INITIATIVE

WOULD ANYONE EVER READ THE FIRST THREE CHAPTERS OF A BOOK AND NOT READ THE FINAL FOURTH CHAPTER?

explain some of the history and significance of this very beautiful and interesting ceremony. It will be designed to encourage Brethren to take the Fourth step following the Three Degrees of Craft Masonry.

to extend that positive result to all Chapters in the Province. As the Second Principal, E Comp George Francis, announced recently. “The Royal Arch is not an optional extra, but the means by which every Masons completes his journey in Pure and Ancient Freemasonry”

The Royal Arch Representative (RAR) programme in Craft Lodges was only launched in November 2008, but already all Lodges in Leics & Rutland have their own Representative.

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hese Brethren now give a brief report in their Lodges and assist members to make the next step in Freemasonry, after the Three Craft Degrees. Already we have Chapters requesting extra meetings because they have the extra Candidates. We now want

Where to Next?

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e will be making available an interesting explanation about the Royal Arch to be used in Craft Lodges to assist those who are not yet members. This will

LETTER OF INVITATION TO ALL MASTER MASONS

After a Brother becomes a Master Mason he receives a letter jointly signed by the Provincial Grand Master and the Grand Superintendent.

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his explains that he can now consider the next step into the Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch. Some Brethren will want to do this sooner and others later, but all Brethren should do it at sometime.

A further letter will follow this to all Brethren who have been appointed Deacon in their Lodge and who haven’t taken the next step into the Royal Arch.

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

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Charnwood Chapter Celebrate interesting and very well received by everyone present. The MEGS was so impressed with the whole evening that he congratulated the members of Charnwood Chapter before the closing, thus ensuring that his comments were entered in the Chapter minutes.

As well as exalting Bro. Graham Ward into our wonderful order of the Royal Arch, the Charnwood Chapter also welcomed three joining members; Companions Jim Wheatley, George Maltby and Paul Maltby.

On Tuesday 16th December 2008 the Charnwood Chapter No. 1007, celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the presentation of it’s Centenary Warrant, at the Masonic Hall in Loughborough.

T o mark the occasion the ME Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Peter Kinder together with his Deputy, CoPrincipals and the active officers of Provincial Grand Chapter attended the Convocation and were received in ceremonial form.

Following a superb exaltation ceremony a paper entitled “Charnwood Chapter 1007, 1873 to 2008. Further Historical Notes”, was delivered by E.Comp. Ken Mason PAGDC, Past Third Provincial Grand Principal. The Paper was most

Picture shows left to right:

LEICESTER SQUARE SUMMER 2009

E.Comp. John Smail, E..Comp. David Hagger, E.Comp. Jim Williamson, E.Comp.

Peter Kinder, E.Comp. David Willis, E.Comp. Jim Buckle and E.Comp. Chris Bocock.

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INSTALLED FIRST PRINCIPALS VISIT DEVONSHIRE COURT On Saturday 7th March Don Peacock (MEZ) and other members of Installed First Principals visited Devonshire Court. Many of the residents assembled in the main lounge and enjoyed tea and coffee accompanied by some delicious home made cakes.

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t was then time for everyone to put on their thinking caps and take part in the “Mastermind” quiz. E Comp.

Neither the Grand Superintendent, nor the Second or Third Provincial Grand Principals came anywhere near the winning score of 29 out of 30. After the quiz the residents took part in a free raffle and some lovely prizes were distributed to those lucky enough to have winning tickets.

This is the first time the Chapter of Installed First Principals have made a visit to Devonshire Court.

The Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Peter Kinder, is hoping that other Chapters will follow this lead and arrange their own visit.

ROYAL ARCH CHURCH SERVICE

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he Royal Arch Church Service will take place at The Collegiate Church of St. Mary de Castro on Sunday 11th October at 4.00pm. The Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Peter Kinder and his Co-Principals look forward to welcoming as many Royal Arch Masons and their families as possible. There will be light refreshments and a glass of wine available after the service when the congregation will have the chance to chat and meet new friends.

Provincial Grand Chapter

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he convocation of The Provincial Grand Chapter of Leicestershire and Rutland was held at London Road, Leicester, on Thursday 26th March 2009. The convocation was very well attended and the MEGS took great pleasure in appointing, promoting and investing his provincial officers for the ensuing year.

Master Masons & Exaltees Evening

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n Wednesday 18th November Provincial Grand Chapter will host the 6th annual meeting for Master Masons. For the second year running the province will also be inviting all newly exalted companions to attend. These evenings are informative and interesting and we urge all masons, who are not yet members of the Royal Arch, to attend. The evening ends informally when everyone is able to chat whilst enjoying a superb buffet and glass of wine.

RA PROVINCE MAKES ANOTHER DONATION

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n December 2008, £1,000 was donated to the Collegiate Church of St Mary de Castro to assist with major maintenance work required to alleviate problems they are experiencing with the heating system.

A BOOST FOR ROYAL ARCH CHARITIES

THE MAGIC FLUTE

On Saturday 28 th February, Charnwood and Beacon Chapters hosted an exclusive performance of The Magic Flute at the Carillion Rooms, Loughborough.

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he excellent performance was enjoyed by a large and enthusiastic audience who were treated to a fabulous buffet during the interval.

Over £350 was raised from a superb raffle. This swelled the total amount donated to the Leicestershire and Rutland Royal Arch Charities to over £1,000.

A Big Thank You to Charnwood and Beacon Chapters.

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The photograph shows our Grand Superintendent, E Comp. Peter Kinder together with his Deputy, Co-Principals, our past Grand Superintendent and visiting Grand Superintendents from other provinces.

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

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THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND