Promoting the Fraternity across the World
Freemasons from West Wales will be hosting their own teddy bears’ picnic as part of celebrations to mark 300 years of Freemasonry while raising awareness of the excellent work of one of its most important Masonic charitable initiatives, the Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) Appeal.
The campaign for the £2,000 equipment was launched by the patient participation group at Graham Road Surgery in 2015 when its then-chairman Alan Rice became aware of the lack of defibrillators in Weston.
Almost one hundred supporters filled the garden to enjoy a most splendid BBQ with delicious food and plenty to drink. Tony and Jill, together with their family, have deservedly built up a bit of a reputation for the quality of their hospitality and so it’s not surprising so many people turned out on a day when the weather forecast was less than favourable.
When being asked, what would be the value of a diamond, mostly everybody answers in terms of higher amounts of money. A poor wanderer in the desert, in need of a cup of water, would probably give a better answer to this question, because he reflects of value in a different way. “Most valuable” for him means, “serving his needs and desires best”.
In our Masonic lodges we are apt to see or hear a piece of work that makes a great impression on us. Each degree in our respective rituals has special pieces that standout with unique beauty and meaning. I was intrigued while visiting a lodge some years ago when I saw a wonderful poem called “On Yonder Book” given as a charge after the third degree. Afterwards I asked the brother who had given it where it was from, but he had little information about it. I eventually received a copy from a friend from Ohio, who gives it to every newly raised MM in his lodge.
Hand Heart Pocket, an independent charity founded by the Freemasons of Queensland, announced on Monday they would be donating $120,000 to keep Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) call centre running until long-term funding from government could be secured.
The fourth annual charity bike ride has been accomplished in fine style by members of a group of intrepid cyclists affectionately known to all in Liverpool, and beyond, as the Crafty Companions Cycling Circle.
The annals of the work of the freemasons are filled with many worthy deeds, each performed in the spirit of the fraternity that has been inspired since the order was first established long ago in 1717 when the first Grand Lodge of England was formed in London. Personal growth and social betterment via individual involvement and philanthropy have been the guiding lights of the stonemason guilds that have survived through the ensuing centuries.
Wallsend Masonic Hall hosted a function arranged by Northumberland Mark Masons on Saturday 8th April.The evening was to raise funds in support of CHUF (Children’s Heart Unit Fund).
