Freemason 300 years of Freemasonry - NEW ZEALAND - Freemasons New Zealand
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Freemason NEW ZEALAND Issue 3 (Vol. 45), September 2017 300 years of Freemasonry A world first www.freemasonsnz.org
Aoraki Mount Cook – New Zealand’s tallest mountain – with the Hooker Glacier in the foreground. CM Lynch
In this issue From the Editor 2 PARTNERS IN FREEMASONRY Hot Off the Press 3 Surprise presentation to Ngaroma Driver 21 Grand Master’s visits 3 Websites and social media 21 Where in the world? 21 Grand Master 4 On the road again… The invisible disease revealed 22 President of the Board 4 Challenges or opportunities! Masonic Foundation Chief Executive 5 Stone Laying Hive of industry Ceremony 24 A rare occasion for Freemasons News clips 6 The Royal New Zealand Opinion: Our Returned and Service’s Masonic family 8 Association 26 Have your say 9 Ride of Respect 28 Speak up for What do you Freemasonry 10 mean by 300 Years of ‘Grand Lodge’? 29 Freemasonry 12 Bro Les Andrew Grand Lodge VC DSO 30 offers hands-on, paid assistance THE FREEMASONS CHARITY in search for new Delivering charity in its many forms 32 members 13 Working for the Charity 33 FREEMASONS IN ACTION Travels with our Grand Master 34 Wiigs in Whangarei 14 The Masonic Villages Trust 36 A hospital for Akaroa 15 Enjoy a better lifestyle in retirement 38 Youth Trust Rewards Merit 16 WOW – Whanganui Freemasons sponsor a Football Club 16 Opera Week 39 Masons and Maths! 17 Freemasons Foundation Havelock Lodge success Report 40 the result of community SRIA – Societas Rosecruciana cooperation 18 in Anglia 42 Grand Master and First Grand Principal at Royal Arch 44 plaque unveiling 18 75 years in Pioneer Lodge celebrates Freemasonry 46 175 years 19 Welcome to our newest Remembering Lodge Orakei 20 Freemasons 47 The Last Word! 48 Service Awards 49 www.freemasonsnz.org 1
FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND Level 6, Freemasons House From the Editor 195–201 Willis Street Te Aro, Wellington 6011 PO Box 6439, Marion Square Wellington 6141 300 Years of Freemasonry New Zealand Freemasonry has spread its benign influence throughout the Ph: +64 4 385 6622 world over three centuries and has always been a force for good Fax +64 4 385 5749 and doing what our hearts and heads knows is right and proper. Email: membership@freemasonsnz.org It has survived the ravages of human history during those communications@freemasonsnz.org 300 years and is still here today. www.freemasonsnz.org As Freemasons, most of us know, its value to ourselves and The New Zealand Freemason is the official journal of the our local communities but the time has well and truly come Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. when we must shout with joy its values, principles and benefits Unless otherwise indicated, the opinions expressed and the to all mankind. advertising content are those of the authors and do not We are, after all, as humans all sprung from the same stock, necessarily reflect the policy of Grand Lodge. are partakers of the same nature, and sharers in the same hope. Articles appearing in this journal may be reproduced As Freemasons, we would hope that all the world could meet without permission provided acknowledgement of the on the level (be equals) and part on the square (be on good source is made and a copy of the publication is forwarded terms with our neighbours). to the Grand Secretary. Like the cathedrals and castles of old let Freemasonry stand Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution should be addressed to membership@freemasonsnz.org or firm as an illustrious institution for another 300 years or better the Chief Executive PO Box 6439, Marion St. Wellington yet for time immemorial. 6141. Queries and comments regarding content and See the Grand Masters Column and the 300 Years feature advertising should be addressed to the Editor. with suggestions on how we in New Zealand might celebrate Contributions to the magazine, preferably in electronic 300 Years of Freemasonry. form (e.g. MS Word documents) are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Photographs This issue of the magazine contains a feature from the Royal should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tif format. New Zealand Returned & Services Association, 300 years of Contributions may be edited in order to fit space available Freemasonry, Masonic Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony and to achieve overall balance. Letters to the Editor – a rare occurrence, Camp Purple, Partners in Freemasonry, should not exceed 300 words. A guidance sheet for Freemasons in Action and all the other usual well appreciated preparation of publishable material is available on request features including another masonic crossword. from the Editor. Contributions should be forwarded to communications@freemasonsnz.org I trust after reading this issue, you will use your copy of the New Zealand Freemason magazine to help you ‘Speak Up for Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, communications@freemasonsnz.org Freemasonry’ and be edified, enlightened, excited and enjoy what your read. Royal Arch contributions to Geoff Davies, VWBro Duane Williams MBE, JP, KLJ, PDistGM merlin81@xtra.co.nz Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November Layout by Bartlett Projects, Wellington Printed by Fisher Print Ltd, Palmerston North Copyright © 2017 Freemasons NZ ADVERTISING RATES PER ISSUE Description Height Width Base price Discounted (4 Issues) Full page 240mm 175mm $1250 $1000 Half page 240mm 85mm $650 $500 (vertical) Half page 120mm 175mm $650 $500 (horizontal) Banner 75mm 175mm $350 $250 Quarter page 120mm 85mm $350 $250 All figures GST exclusive. For full advertising details contact communications@freemasonsnz.org Editor Duane with Chief Executive Laurence outside Freemason House with latest NZ Freemason magazine celebrating 300 Years of Freemasonry. 2
Hot Off the Press 2019 Grand Installation Widows Gift The 2019 Grand Installation has been Anyone from EA to Grand The Freemasons Charity has confirmed as 15, 16, 17 November 2019 Master can attend. We are continued its traditional of car in Wellington. expecting Freemasons from ing by providing Lodges with an Programme will include Business the Australian Consti annual gift for their Widows. This Session (free), Ladies Function tutions, Sister Consti year a royal blue pashmina scarf and Welcome Function, Grand tutions and other Over with discreet gold square and Instal lation (free), Grand seas Constitutions. compasses logo. Over 3500 Banquet and Sunday More details have been distributed so Farewell Breakfast. in future issues far. A small gift that says Freemasons and their of magazine and ‘we are thinking of you’. partners have sepa rate online. and con joint events. 2018 Divisional Conferences Southern Divisional Central Divisional Northern Divisional Conference Conference Conference 2–4 March 2018 24 March 2018 21 April 2018 Methven New Plymouth Auckland A great way to involve yourself in the management of our organisation, learn new things and have lots of fun and fellowship. GRAND MASTER’S VISITS 26 Aug 60 Year Bar WBro Bruce Stephens 14 Sept Installation Bro Mark Luxon 7 Oct Formal Reception of Grand Master to and BOP Masters Forum Lodge Te Puki The Avon Shirley Lodge No 185, Ara Royal Arch Chapter, Auckland No 261 Te Puki Christchurch 14 Oct Amalgamation of three lodges in 5 Sept 75 Year Certificate RWBro 16 Sept 150th Celebration Lodge Celtic Hamilton and a new Charter, Hamilton Athol Thorpe PGW Lodge Tawhiri No 477 District Grand Lodge of NZ 29 Oct – 1 November 300th Anniversary No 166 Hamilton South, Grand Lodge of Scotland Celebrations United Grand Lodge of 9 Sept 70 Year Bar WBro Jack Matthews Dunedin England, London in company of the Okara Daylight Lodge No 461 17 Sept Choral Evensong St Mary’s in Deputy Grand Master and visits to Whangarei Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland Grand Lodge of Scotland and Grand Lodge of Ireland. www.freemasonsnz.org 3
GRAND MASTER PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD On the road again… Challenges or A s Grand Master, there are a number where, with whom…I of invitations received that give me trust the reports will be of the opportunity to meet brethren and interest to everyone. “We can continuously Improve who we are and what we are capable of achieving. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow their ladies, and to share the enjoyment of On my return, I will be Stronger”. — Brooke Griffin Freemasonry. Around the country, I have attending the November I am for the most an optimistic person, been received in most districts – some more Communications in and as President of the Board I bring than once; others it is just on the horizon. Rotorua of the UGLE (Northern District a ‘can do’ attitude (as do all the Board Invitations also arrive from our Sister of NZ) who will be celebrating the members) to turning challenges into Constitutions and I am delighted to Tercentenary – and I can share with opportunities. The areas (challenges) share the celebration with them when them stories of the London events. that the Board had agreed to focus on ever possible – to the public, we are all This edition of the Freemason magazine (Membership, Communications and one big organisation of freemasons and contains more information about the pro Finance) are not small, but we are already I promote that view where-ever the op gress of our Speak Up campaign, and what beginning to see ‘opportunities’ present portunity arises. a delight to see overseas Grand Lodges ex ing themselves as a result of actions In October this year, I am travelling pressing interest in replicating our materi already taken or activity that is currently to London to participate in the 300-year als for Speak Up – it is a simple and sensi underway. celebration of the United Grand Lodge of ble concept, and everyone can participate Membership: activities under the England, and what an event that will be! including our ladies. We are more than ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ banner con Freemasonry on the world stage, with all happy to encourage other Grand Lodges tinue to grow - with reports from around the pomp and ceremony that the English who wish to use our material and will be the country on a range of initiatives being will muster. It is an occasion I am looking keeping them abreast of the program as it undertaken, and we can already see the forward to expe develops. start of some Lodges clearly benefiting riencing – but im EUROPEAN PROGRAMME For the mo from new members being introduced. portantly it is also ment though, I Speaking up for Freemasonry is work an event which I 29 Oct Welcome Dinner – London am back on the ing – the next challenge / opportunity we believe will impact 30 Oct Meet NZ High Commissioner road! September have, is to keep the momentum going. back here in New (NZ House) and October will To this end, a new initiative ‘the next Zealand and pro Reception – Lord Mayor of London see me involved step’ is announced by the Grand Master vide opportunities 31 Oct Royal Albert Hall – formal ceremony in a reception by MWBro Mark Winger on page 13 of this to Speak Up For Battersea Evolution – Reception and the Royal Arch in banquet publication. This initiative provides a Freemasonry. Auck land, a con real opportunity for all Lodges that get I expect the 1 Nov Scotland – Grand Lodge visit secration of a new involved. 300 years’ cel 3 Nov Rosslyn Chapel Lodge in Hamil Communications: we are pleased to ebration will put 4 Nov Dublin ton, an Even song advise that we have secured the services ‘Freemasonr y’ 6 Nov Grand Lodge visit Service at Holy of an outstanding individual (full details in the media, in 8 Nov London – meeting with Trinity Cathedral Apollo Lodge – a University Lodge and commencement date to follow) to social media, on in Auckland in fill the newly created position of Head of the television, into regalia, a celebra Communications and Administration. the mouths of commentators. It is an op tion of 150 years of Scottish freemasonry His experience in the areas of commu portunity for each one of us to take ad in Dunedin, visits to several Districts nications, marketing, media relations vantage of the heightened profile in our and lodges including an Installation in and administration will take our current communities to promote our individual Christchurch, a meeting of the Board of activity to the next level (and beyond!). lodges. To talk with the public about General Purposes and contributing to We are also excited to announce that your lodge, your community, your love the governance of National Office. Duane Williams has agreed to assist us of and pride in Freemasonry. It is with great pride that I see our So, what are we going to do to help organisation making wonderful progress raise profile? on so many fronts – and at the same For my part, I will be providing a blog time, punching above our weight on the on our Divisional websites, giving a day by world stage. Long may that continue. day report on the UK events. While I am Fraternal best wishes to everyone in the UK I have, a busy schedule planned, – checkout that Divisional Website aiming to take advantage of a New – and don’t forget to Speak Up For Zealand Grand Master visiting Europe. Freemasonry! I will be filing photos of the events, and Mark Winger, Grand Master a brief commentary on what was done, 4 www.freemasonsnz.org
CHIEF EXECUTIVE opportunities! Hive of industry through this transition and then join us on a six-month, part time, fixed term con I t is that time in the political life of New Zealand when the elections dominate our news media and the politi an appropriate emblem of systematized industry. It is also a symbol of per tract. Duane’s duties will cians swarm from the Beehive and hit fection as the six-sided cells include the continuation the campaign trail. Passing that unique of the comb provide more of the production of the building so reminiscent of an old wicker storage space for the honey NZ Freemason magazine. style beehive I remembered a picture than could any other design. Also, Freemasons New Zealand will I saw in an old masonic symbols book It is also worth mentioning that is be helping to celebrate 300 years of and I wondered about the origins of this the 1700s when members of a Lodge Freemasonry with a series of activities, building in Wellington and any masonic left to form a new Lodge it was called events and projects. I encourage you all connection. ‘swarming’. to actively get involved in these celebra The concept design of the Beehive The bee is industrious. He works hard tions, they are another opportunity for us came from the Scottish architect Sir Basil and tirelessly for the swarm. He works to “Speak Up’ for Freemasonry, promote Spence and was approved in 1964 by in cooperation, and without dissension, who we are, what we stand for and the then Prime Minister Sir Keith Holyoake with his fellow bees. He protects the value we provide in our communities. who was also Grand Patron of the Grand hive, builds and is productive, and lives Finance: The sale of the building Lodge of New Zealand from November in a society ruled by law and order. As in Willis St, Wellington has now gone 1979 to November 1980 and held the freemasons, we should work as a unit. unconditional and handover to the new rank of Past Grand Master. No man working for himself but joining owner will be in Initiated in Motueka Bays Lodge with his fellows to achieve a common November. The No.117 in 1931 Sir Keith was definitely goal. Each of us doing his part, his share, sale reduces our a Freemason at the time he approved the taking pride in his assignment, large or existing outgo design, whether or not this had any influ small. One man alone can accomplish ings (and risks), ence on his decision is unknown but the little or nothing but by using industry and allows those beehive has in the past been a masonic and working together the greatest struc savings to be emblem used to teach a virtue to live by. tures can be created. invested in activ This symbol is not in regular use in our As to the parliament Beehive in ity that will grow Lodges or ceremonies today but some Wellington it is certainly abuzz with Freemasonry for activity when the politicians all (e.g. the new are in residence so in this sense initiative). it does perhaps reflect on the In November symbolism of industry but given the office space that National Office cur the nature of opposition politics rently occupies moves to a ‘month by one might question whether it month’ lease. But, we are already looking fits the masonic ideal of working for other accommodation, that better fits as one team towards a shared our needs and also (if possible) further goal so perhaps Sir Keith saw reduces our costs. this design as providing a subtle In closing I would like to thank all message to his fellow politicians. those I have spoken with over the last Laurence Milton, few months as I have been out visiting. Chief Executive Your insights and views are genuinely appreciated. Peter Benstead, President of the Board believe that the small silver adornment or button on the collar of our Lodge Officers is emblematic of this symbol. It is an emblem of industry but not in the modern use of this term meaning manufacturing but in the older sense of men working as a team and using labour to achieve an accomplishment. The regu lated labour of the bees working together in the hive for the common good of all was deemed by early Freemasons to be www.freemasonsnz.org 5
Logo Variations News clips Master logo Where in the world? Australian Grand Installations WBro Tim Oulds RH in Madrid, Spain with a copy of the New Zealand Mark Winger Grand Master Freemasons Freemason magazine. Tim is with New Zealand (The Grand Lodge of New Onehunga Maungawhao Lodge FOR No FOR Zealand) along FOR with a delegation of New 168. Take your New Zealand Freemason FREEMASONRY FREEMASONRY Zealand Freemasons will be attending FREEMASONRY magazine on a journey around New four Grand Installations in Australia Zealand or the World and send an inter in 2018. esting photo of it and you 1 Fullto the Editor colour 2 Greyscale Starting 3 Black with the United Grand Lodge of at communications@freemasonsnz.org Victoria in Melbourne 6–9 April 2018, Alternative logo followed by the Grand Lodge of South Australia and Northern Territory in Speak up and Adelaide 20–23 April 2018, then United the world Grand Lodge of New South Wales and will hear you! FOR Australian Capital Territory in Sydney FREEMASONRY Masonic Myth Buster! FOR FREEMASONRY FOR FREEMASONRY 3–5 August 2018 and finally, the Grand Our ‘Simple answers Lodge of Western Australia in Perth A great way to bust masonic myths to leading questions’ 4 Speech bubble 25–28 October reversed 2018. is to hand out the ‘Simple answers to 5 Horizontal open 6 Horizontal Booklet enclosed in the June issue leading questions’ Booklet produced by New Zealand enjoys supporting the of the New Zealand Freemason Master colour variationsmagazine Freemasons New Zealand. Australian State Constitutions. He would not only went to all Freemasons in New Also, encourage those interested to be pleased for the company of as many Zealand and overseas but all recognised read it online at freemasonsnz.org/ Freemasons and Partners on each trip Grand Lodges around the world. simple-answers-to-leading-questions- as possible. Details are sent to Lodges Already three overseas Grand Lodges booklet on the Freemasons New Zealand by Circular well in advance of each have sort our permission to replicate the website. Grand Installation, or get details from booklet and get details on our ‘Speak The June issue of the New Zealand communications@freemasonsnz.org. Up for Freemasonry’ Programme FOR but FOR FOR FREEMASONRY Freemason magazineFREEMASONRY contained your FREEMASONRY adapted for their jurisdiction with credit personal copy and addi being given to Freemasons tional copies can be obtained New Zealand. 7 Gold 8 Light blue 9 White through your District Grand They areForthe Grand ultra small spaces Master or Freemasons New Colour palette Lodge Rhode Island, the Zealand. Grand Lodge of Oregon It is a great way to ‘Speak Dark blue Gold and the Grand Lodge of c100 m68 y0 k50 c10 m40 y100 k0 Up for Freemasonry’ and r0 g49 b104 r228 g160 b37 Tasmania. be a masonic superhero! Just goes to show – speak Light blue Black up and the world will hear c48 m0 y0 k0 k100 you! r116 g209 b246 k60 k30 10 Small 11 Smaller 12 Smallest k0 Crossword solution 6 www.freemasonsnz.org
NEW TECH: Children at Tawhero School thank Readers Competition David Lewis (front) and Find a set of Square and Compasses Craig Paynton for their donation. ‘in distress’ somewhere in the Bevan Conley NZ Freemason magazine. Then send your name, address and the page number to the Editor at communications@freemasonsnz.org to receive a small prize. Good hunting while reading the magazine from cover to cover! New Grand Son for Grand Master! Freemasons supply iPads for Schools! A new grandson … William Bradley Winger born 31 July … 3.14kg … 50cm One of many schools in the Ruapehu Mr Lewis told the children the iPads … all doing well! District to benefit from iPads. A are to help them learn and he hoped they Freemasons District Project that in would enjoy them. volved support from The Freemasons “When you learn to use them, give me Charity. a call,” he said. Year 1 pupils at Tawhero School had “Then I will come to school and you a pleasant surprise last week when they can show me how to use them.” were visited by local Freemasons David Assistant principal and new entrant Lewis and Craig Paynter. teacher Lynette Tutty showed the visitors Mr Lewis and Mr Paynter of the what the students have been learning on St Andrew Kilwinning Lodge in the devices in the classroom and said it Whanganui delivered two new iPads will be very helpful to have more devices to help the children with their digital available for the children. learning. Wanganui Chronicle Working Tools of a Freemasons partner – a Toast to the Ladies and Visitors I’ll now present to you the working tools to be trifled with. It was used by the The locked front door teaches us a les of the Freemason’s partner. They are; the Freemason’s partner to beautify and son in security; for the Freemason, may time-piece, the locked front door, and adorn the home. practice, and try to keep his words secret the rose. But, as we have met, on the pre in vain, as the partner is sharp of hear The time-piece was used by the opera sent occasion, as Free and Accepted ing. But we trust them, and they treat our tive Freemason’s partner to meas or Speculative, rather than as obligations as their own. ure the hours and minutes of Operative Freemasons, it is the The rose is a reminder to all Free peace and quiet they had until moral conveyed in these em masons to not neglect their partners and the Freemason returns home. blems that we are called upon wives, and to remember all that they do The locked front door is a more particularly to regard. for us to support us in Freemasonry. If we large instrument, solid in its From the time-piece we learn do not tend to the rose, it will no longer construction. It is capable of fill of the patience exhibited by our be there for us, enhancing our lives. ing, the largest of doorways, and partners; putting up with the From the whole, we deduce this the most persistent of door to door Freemason being out until late; moral; Patience, aided by trust, and nur sales people have been kept at bay chores going unfinished; or their tured by reciprocated love, forms a solid from the refusal of it to be opened. mind elsewhere and mumbling foundation of support for Freemasons The rose is delicate of fragrance to themselves, for, if they do not and Freemasonry to flourish. and petal, yet just below its beauty get their charge right, the Director Bro Luke Sharplin lies a sharp reminder that it’s not of Ceremonies will come down upon Junior Warden, Lodge Tawhiri them like a ton of bricks. www.freemasonsnz.org 7
OPINION Our Masonic family W e are all members of one big Masonic family. A family with many siblings and other relations Excellent Master and the Royal Arch as being pure Ancient Freemasonry.” I believe that such justification is a friendship, goodwill or friendliness) is one we in New Zealand could well follow. It would cost the Grand Lodge of New but all united by our membership of fallacy. Whilst Grand Lodge may not Zealand nothing and would enhance Freemasonry. recognise the degrees of the other orders their status and reputation with the Some of us belong to nothing more they are still part of our Masonic family other members of our Masonic family than one lodge while other belong to two and there is nothing to stop Grand Lodge if we were to see the Grand Master or or more lodges and yet other belong to being in fellowship with them. his representative attending significant one or more of the myriad of other orders The is ample examples from overseas events in the life of other orders with associated with freemasonry. The one where Grand Lodges are in fellowship the family. Similarly, we could invite the thing that binds us heads of the other together as brothers Orders to sit on the is our membership of stage in a place of the Grand Lodge of honour at Grand New Zealand. Communications. In our human fam Let not our lead ily’s significant events ers hide their heads such as birthdays, in the sand and pre weddings funerals are tend this issue will go time for the family to away – lets have an join together and to open debate about it. celebrate or mourn. Make it a subject for Such events bond us discussion at next together and bring us year’s Divisional closer to each other’s. Conferences. If our Masonic We are one family acted in as Masonic family – let similar manner, we us all be in “amity” would all be the richer for it. with other orders. In England, the Grand with each other – let us see the Grand It is sad to report that all too often Master of the United Grand Lodge of Master attending the enthronements and Grand Lodge does not acknowledge oth England the Duke of Kent is the Grand the like of other Orders. er members of the Masonic family. This Patron of the Ancient and Accepted Rite VWBro Keith Knox PGC is especially so when the Grand Master (i.e. Rose Croix). In many jurisdiction’s or his representative is not present at sig in the Americas the Grand Master is Keith Knox is a Freemason with over nificant events in the life of other parts of automatically given the 33 degree of The 31 years’ service. He is a member of the family. Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite on three lodges and four chapters in the It is very noticeable that when other assuming office. Ancient and Accepted Rite. He is a Masonic orders hold significant events Similarly, the yearbook and website of Past Grand Chaplain and has been that there is no representation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland lists bodies the Honorary Librarian for Grand Grand Lodge in attendance. which it is in Amity with Supreme Grand Lodge for over 10 years. He has pre Some senior members of Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland, Great sented many lectures in the Research Lodge justify this nonattendance on Rule Priory of Scotland, Supreme Council for Lodge of Wellington 71 of the Book of Constitution which Scotland, The Royal Order of Scotland, and is a Kellerman states that “Grand Lodge recognises only The Grand Imperial Council of Scotland, Lecturer for the the degrees of Entered Apprenticed, Fellow Sister Grand Lodges. Australian and New Craft, Master Mason, Mark Master, The example of the Grand Lodge of Zealand Masonic Scotland of being in Amity (i.e. harmony, Research council. HAVE YOUR SAY Write a letter to the Editor – preferably 300 words maximum. Submit an Opinion piece – 800 words plus a 100-word author biography, and a photo. 8 www.freemasonsnz.org
HAVE YOUR SAY Inspiration matters Freemasonry encourages good men to be Let your Lodge Buildings Dear Editor come better men by promoting a way of life Speak up for Freemasonry Why are we inspired by certain people dedicated to service to others, high ideals Dear Editor or things around us? I have been thinking and benevolence. Freemason organisation VWBro Graham Stretz, in his Opinion about this for some time. I find qualities in consists of men from all faiths, cultures, po piece in the March issue expresses his some people that inspire me to do good, litical fractions and ideologies. According concerns for the future of lodge buildings. to work hard, to write, to think and to be to Sir Richard James, the ideals of our While it must be accepted that some will a better person. I am not talking about the organisation have always been as follows: be inevitably lost in the future, there is an likes of Bill Gates or Steve Jobs as I am not Be considerate of different religious, opportunity for those that remain to be attracted to the lives of corporate celebrities social, and political views used as tools in the Speak Up campaign. at all. I am talking about those ordinary but Uphold and maintain the principles of During a period, I had as a District humble individuals around us. Those who good government and oppose divisive Property Officer I observed many lodge are so humble that they don’t even realise or degrading influences buildings which presented an unprepos how kind or inspiring they are to others, lit sessing face to their community. Drab Practice positive relationships; give tle acts of kindness that change people’s lives. concrete, untidy surrounds and minimal and accept help when needed Yes, little things matter and will shape bigger signage do nothing to encourage openness and more important things in our lives. Value the internal qualities of a man and enquiry. By definition, “inspiration is a process over financial success I am not proposing expensive makeo of being mentally stimulated to do or feel Strive to participate with the fraternity vers but rather a few litres of paint to something, especially to do something and live a brotherly life brighten the facades and pick out the creative. It usually results in a sudden bril Remain good at heart highlights, coupled with bold welcoming liant or timely idea”. Some behavioural as signage, could do wonders for commu Act with honour and integrity in eve pects can be explained through hormones nity contact. The makeover need not be rything you do and chemicals such as relaxation and anxi expensive. Paint retailers can be engaged ety but, inspiration is a psychological phe Believe in a Supreme Being and keep to recommend colour schemes and may nomenon. It’s not a chemical or biological faith as the centre of life and even be persuaded to provide sponsorship. process much like the feeling of love and Strive to leave the world a better place Coupled with the basic makeover it affection. Inspiration is a drive to create. than when you entered it. would be great to see community focussed But what is it in others that inspires us? Brethren, family and friends, there are information panels, promoting Freemasons One of the biggest influencers of human many men and women around us who are New Zealand and The Freemasons Charity, behaviour is what we see other people do. truly inspiring individuals. Let’s thank and displayed to the street. Both could provide We are always looking for a role model. appreciate them for the energy they give suggested wording. Masonic philosophy has inspired many us and strive to observe the above philo It’s time to throw away the image of the people and leaders over the course of its sophical ideals in our daily lives. ‘secret society’ hiding behind the walls existence. As Freemasons, our philosophy Ali Seifuddin and let lodge buildings “Speak up for requires obliged members to do all they Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45 Freemasonry.” can to make this word a better place. WBro Morris Robertson FNZIA PGStdB What initiated my Interest in and died in the Royal Masonic Hospital, from our Association than it is for one Freemasonry London. Again, Freemasonry was there to of our members. I feel that perhaps we Dear Editor assist my Grandmother and her family. should consider reinstating some of the I remember as a child, tea service items Due to my serving with the Royal Air old ideals of Freemasonry and making on display in our sitting room. Each item Force I never really thought much about it easier to assist our brethren and their had the emblem of St Swithin’s Lodge No. joining “The Craft” as I felt that it was families where necessary. I know that 1910 which was a London Lodge. One day really something of ‘A Rich Man’s Club’. most Lodges present their Widows with my Grandmother mentioned that each item Finally, while serving in Cyprus, I asked a small Christmas gift so why not include had been presented – one each Christmas – a friend -who was a Freemason- what was our Ladies as we did in the past? After all, by the Master of my Grandfather’s Lodge. involved. He informed me that unfortu without their support our life would be (Note: These items can now be seen in nately I had left my enquiry too late as his much more difficult! the display cabinet in the Refectory at 45 Lodge was in recession and I was due to be WBro Tim Oulds RH Neilson St. Onehunga, Auckland). posted back to the UK. Editor’s Note: Please look at the figures It transpired that my Grandmother A few years later I met – in New mentioned in The Freemasons Charity (born 1878) had lost both parents when she Zealand – my son’s future Father-in-Law pages of this issue and also note that in was only three years of age. She and her sib who introduced me into the old Onehunga any case of genuine hardship by a member lings (four boys and three girls) were edu Lodge No. 424. Since then I have tried to of our masonic family assistance can be cated and supported by Freemasonry in the give something back to Freemasonry to made. The Annual Widows Gift again ex- UK. All the girls went to very good schools help repay the debt that I feel my family tended to 3500 widows this year from The and the boys to Oxford University. My owes to Freemasonry in general. Freemasons Charity. Grandfather had also undergone surgery Unfortunately, I feel that it is now easier for a total outsider to obtain help www.freemasonsnz.org 9
New member numbers rising in District 5 Could it be the ‘Speak up’ influence? District 5, Counties Hauraki, in the Northern Division have compiled some promising membership numbers which they offer as convincing evidence that the Speak Up for Freemasonry campaign is making a real and measurable difference. District Grand Master John Lucaszewicz and his team have living in the Counties Hauraki catchment looked carefully at the number of new members by initiation area. in the District since the launch of ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ The influences that have created this at the end of last year (6 months – January to June) and says upsurge are probably many in different the nineteen Candidates across his eleven Lodges is very proportions. But with Lodges grasping the encouraging. Of those, fifteen have been proposed, eight initi Speak Up proposal and therefore bring ated, seven are awaiting initiation plus four who are expected ing membership activity to the fore, we’ll take it! Well done to sign the membership application. All that is a great advance District 5. on where the District was a year ago. How are your membership figures looking? Got a good The activity is not evenly spread. There are three Lodges story? Give us the numbers – through your District Grand each dealing with five candidates, making up the majority of Master please. the numbers. But one of these Lodges hasn’t had a Candidate for two years, another Lodge for 12 months. Maybe they were spurred into action for members by Speak Up? But John knows FIRESIDE FOOTNOTE there will always be these variables. What it does suggest how ever is that there are Candidates out there and if speaking up And talking about Speaking Up bringing membership in is ‘doing it’ for some Lodges then there is no reason why the general to the table, the Grand Master relates hearing from the other Lodges can’t enjoy having Candidates to initiate too! Katikati Lodge No 295 in a quiet aside, that as a result He explains that the figures exclude Joining members. And of the Speak Up spark the local fire chief has re-joined the Lodge. Well, we keep talking about brand new he acknowledges some of the leads came from Grand Lodge members but re-joiners will be fine thank you. and the Auckland District passing on enquiries from those Keep those Bay of Plenty fires burning! ‘SPEAK UP’ – WANTED IN AMERICA Enquiries from two American State Jurisdictions have recently been received by our Grand Lodge asking for the use of our ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ concept. We have been delighted to advise both in the possibility of bringing the cam- The Grand Lodge of Oregon and the paign to Oregon Freemasonry’. Grand Lodge of Rhode Island that we While the Rhode Islanders said ‘truly are very happy to allow them the use appreciated the content and layout of the of our materials without restriction as booklet, definitely want to create a simi- a gesture of co-operation and lar booklet for Rhode Island’. goodwill. We are flattered of course Comments from Ore but very happy to be of help to gon included ‘this message our American Brothers.Their hits home on the need of enquiries stem from the our current membership’ receipt of ‘NZ Freemason’ ; ‘Our thoughts center on June issue containing the potentially utilizing the logo ‘Simple answers to leading and slogan to invigorate the questions’ booklet. Our brethren’; ‘we’re interested … magazine itself was also highly praised. 10 www.freemasonsnz.org
Alternative logo Speak Up for Freemasonry Workshops – My way FOR FREEMASONRY FOR FREEMASONRY Freemasons New Zealand By WBro Cameron Smith, Master, The Lodge of Enlightenment No 502, North Shore, Auckland Like many members of the Craft, I applaud the “Speak 4 Speech up for Freemasonry” initiative of the bubble Grand open 5 Horizontal ‘Speak Up for Freemasonr Master. In my view, it has many imperatives, all of which will greatly assist in promoting Freemasonry and dispelling the myths that continue to plague the Craft and contribute to its decline. Master colour variations The two booklets, “Simple answers to leading questions” and safety, unconfident Commencing November men becoming 2016 confident men, sorrow at the “Plain English Guide to Freemasonry” are useful tools, the loss of a close friend and Brother, and many, many more. acting as a reference guide to those brethren who may be After the stories have been told, I ask my two non-mason less confident in speaking openly about the Craft, of which, I friends to recount, in their own words, what they heard each suspect there are many. But these Logobooklets don’t tell the stories Variations of the Brethren say. Remember, these people are experienced behind, and the reasons why, many of us became Freemasons? in the fields of journalism and communications. Experienced If we can tell these stories then we will really be speaking up at hearing stories and knowing fact from fiction, knowing the for Freemasonry. To have the confidence Master logo to tell our stories difference between “corporate spin” and real goodwill. will make our speaking up so much more convincing and And this is probably the most let non-masons understand the real FOR interesting part ofFOReach workshop reasons why we are Freemasons, why FREEMASONRY FREEMASONRY because, in recounting what they each of us has become “so conducive to heard, it is patently obvious that the the precepts” of the Craft. feelings, emotion and enthusiasm behind each I am a great disciple of the use of story-telling 7 Gold of the stories has also beenblue 8 Light conveyed to them. as a tool to convey a message to others, par And their unanimous question is “why aren’t ticularly where that message is difficult to these stories told to the public”? impart. Story-telling is aboutFor ultra small connecting to spaces Colour pale Then discuss some of the techniques that others and helping them see what you see. It is you can use to help give you the confidence an essential human activity and someone once to tell your story as a way of speaking up for D said that “those who tell good stories rule the Freemasonry. I have always thought that to c world”. When you tell a story, particularly when FOR FOR question answer a question by asking another r0 you tell your story, you become intimately and FREEMASONRY is an extremely effectiveFREEMASONRY way of leading into a emotionally involved and those listening, also discussion about a difficult topic. How often are cannot help but become involved. we asked a question like “what is Freemasonry L c I have the privilege of conducting ‘Speak up all about”? My response to questions like this r1 for Freemasonry’ workshops for Lodges in is “what do you already know about it”? Now the Auckland District. The way in which we conduct these you are 1 Full colour 10 Small both engaged in a12meaningful 11 Smaller Smallest discussion, particularly 2 Greyscale workshops, is to have Brethren, selected from a cross-section if (as is generally the case), the person you are talking to has of the Lodge, speak for no more than 2 minutes and answer heard something favourable about the Craft. any one of these 3 questions: Alternative logo A final thought. A current idea in the world is that brands and Why I became a Freemason? organisations want ownership of one word or phrase, some Why I continue to be a Freemason? times called a ‘byline’ or ‘tagline’. Nike has ‘Just do it’, Apple, What I like most about being a Freemason? ‘Think Different’ are examples. I also ask two non-mason friends of mine, (a male and female, At the end of each workshop, I ask the Brethren to see if, hav after all, 50 percent of the “Speak up for Freemasonry” audi ing heard the stories told, they can come up with a word or ence, are female), one of whom is a very experienced journal phrase that exemplifies the Craft. Here are some of them: FOR ist and the other, an expert in the field of communications, to FREEMASONRY “Doing well by doing good” FOR FREEMASONRY listen with a ‘non-masonic’ ear, to what each of the Brethren “Good doing good” has to say. “Doing good…together” 4 Speech bubble 5 Horizontal open So, what happens? Simply, each of the Brethren just tell their Do you have any others? story, in their words. And with all the feelings, emotions and enthusiasm they have for the Craft. Stories Master colourabout life-long variations friendships, trust, the Lodge being a sanctuary, a place of WBro Smith has been a Freemason for 18 years and has a sales and marketing business background. www.freemasonsnz.org 11
300 Years of Freemasonry I t all began in London when four Lodges formed a Grand Lodge in 1717 at a time when Freemasonry was already Our Grand Master MWBro Mark Winger and Deputy Grand Master RWBro Graham Wrigley have been Both the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master will spreading throughout the world, with its invited to the 300th Anniversary cel- also be visiting, the Grand Lodge of current 5 million members, now found ebrations of the United Grand Lodge Scotland in Edinburgh and the Grand Photo by Quin Stevenson on Unsplash in just about every country on the planet. of England in London from 29 October Lodge of Ireland in Dublin, whilst in the What a great achievement for Free to 1 November 2017 along with other United Kingdom. masonry around the world and a testa delegations from all recognised Grand Our Grand Master will be providing ment to the longevity of our institution Lodges from around the world. a daily blog on Divisional Websites of based on the values of tolerance, care, his masonic travels on this momentous kindness, honesty and trust as our guid The 300th Anniversary Programme is occasion for Freemasonry. ing principles and when added to by as follows Freemasons can follow the 300th fellowship, a philosophy for life, personal 29 October 2017 – Welcome Dinner Anniversary Celebration with a delayed development and charity go to make up live stream by registering beforehand what we know as Freemasonry. 30 October 2017 – Morning at www.rah300.org streaming on Freemasonry came to New Zealand in Meeting with the New Zealand High 31 October 2017 taking into account 1837 with a meeting on a ship in Akaroa Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae NZST. and the first Charter was issued from one at NZ High Commission, Haymarket of the Sister Constitutions in 1842 and and an Evening Reception with Lord the formation of our own Grand Lodge Mayor of London at Mansion House. of New Zealand in 1890. 31 October 2017 – Afternoon 300th We should use this occasion to ‘Speak Anniversary Celebrations at Royal Up for Freemasonry’ by letting the public Albert Hall followed by an Evening know that Freemasonry has been around Reception and Banquet at Battersea for 300 years with ageless values and is Evolution. still very active in New Zealand. 1 November 2017 – Farewell Breakfast Royal Albert Hall. Lord Mayor of London, Mansion House. United Grand Lodge of England, London. NEW ZEALAND FREEMASONS SHOULD TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE 300 YEARS OF FREEMASONRY New Zealand Freemasons should also members to join the Lodge for a function, the Lodge Buildings. Or a re-enactment take the opportunity to celebrate 300 do something special with your Lodge for members and/or the public, or years of Freemasonry with Lodge ac Widows and their families, do something combine with one or two community tivities, events, social functions and with our Sister Constitutions, give away organisations on a project or activity that charitable works involving their local 300 of something to the community e.g. culminates during that time or host an communities so we can all ‘Speak Up for 300 school breakfasts/lunches for low unrelated community activity within Freemasonry’. decile schools, 300 scarves, hats, socks to your Lodge Buildings. Here are some ideas under-privilege children, 300 children’s 300 Years of Freemasonry lets ‘shout Find ways to celebrate 300 years – a books to schools or libraries, etc. it out’ in words and actions in New birthday party to which local children Have a Lodge open day with historical Zealand. are invited, Invite the families of past displays, or an activity or event held in 12 www.freemasonsnz.org
Grand Lodge offers hands-on, paid assistance in search for new members Grand Master MWBro Mark Winger has announced the next step in his ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ project – a Grand Lodge offer to individual Lodges of hands- on, custom-made, practical advice and organisation, including financial assistance, to attract new members. T he ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry New Membership Plan’ will offer Lodges a proven-by-experience method of find so that the members of the Lodge are fully informed and understand all details involved and it is mutually direction but practical assistance. He said ‘Many Lodges are pressed if not strug- gling to operate with small numbers. I ing people in their own communities agreed to proceed. recognise that and think it’s time to offer who could be potential members and The plan is based around a special more than just words of encouragement. progressing that interest to the point of public meeting for ‘interested’ men I see those who are doing well and want the ‘candidate’ signing an application for where an explanation of Freemasonry, the ideas that can make a difference put membership. The Plan also includes as its form and structure and what to work where they are most needed. This sistance for new Candidates both in the Freemasonry offers its members, is is something new but we need something period leading up to their Initiation and presented. new!’ in the first year of their membership. He went on to say the New members The Meeting would be promoted, at The object of the initiative is to acti Plan is a way of extending the ‘Speak Grand Lodge expense, to the local vate Lodges who don’t have the member up for Freemasonry’ project from in community through suitable media ship numbers, who may be lacking in dividual members to the whole Lodge and PR. The agenda for the meeting both expertise and financial resource, where a Lodge can show support for and a plan on how it should be organ or who otherwise find it presently dif members efforts and work together on ised and managed will be provided. ficult to take positive action to increase speaking up for our future. It can make their membership in their communities. Two or three expert Brothers ap the Membership question a collabora The offer is open to ALL Lodges and pointed by the Division will act as a tion between members, the Lodges and can be adapted to suit different types of team to work with the Lodge in ar Grand Lodge, each sharing the respon communities. ranging and managing the Plan and sibility for the health of the Craft. In There is nothing completely new in conducting the meeting. Costs would today’s circumstances it is considered the suggested plan of action. It is taken be covered by Grand Lodge. this to be appropriate rather than leave from successful systems and methods The two primary sources of Lodges to fend for themselves in the already used and proven to produce Candidates aimed for are friends, present membership environment. enquiries and membership. family, associates and colleagues of The intention is to run a number of existing members as well as the gen these “Speak Up’ meetings around the The offer is comprised of: eral public in the Lodge catchment country between now and the end of the area. year and to use the results to continue Agreement on all aspects of imple menting the New Members Plan The plan will be adapted to suit indi the programme into 2018. Divisions will will be sought with Lodges wishing vidual Lodges recognising the par work with District Grand Masters to es to proceed. The initiative will be ticular circumstances of each Lodge. tablish where the first meetings are held. handled as a partnership between the In the meantime if a Lodge wants some Most Worshipful Brother Winger em action then it should call its District Lodge and a team from its Division phasised his wish that Grand Lodge Grand Master as soon as possible. And should offer not just guidance and don’t say ‘Oh we’ve tried that before’! www.freemasonsnz.org 13
Freemasons in action Wiigs in Whangarei On Saturday 15th July, more than 200 This event was hosted by the “out of Freemasons from across New Zealand, town” Lodge Coromandel No 14, who with their wives, family, and friends first admitted the local District Grand entered a specially erected Lodgeroom Master, Kevin Burch with due Masonic in Toll Stadium, Ceremony. Then followed the Grand Whangarei to celebrate 100 years Master for New Zealand Mark Winger of service by identical twin brothers, who was accompanied by the Divisional Bruce and Bryan Wiig. Originally from Grand Master Northern Division, Gary Bluff, both men were initiated into Salmon. The District Grand Master Freemasonry on the 15th July 1967 in from the Grand Lodge of Scotland, John Lodge Fortitude No 64. Over the years, Aldcroft, together with the Assistant they have both moved away with Bruce Provincial Grand Master Grand Lodge now living in Auckland with wife Carol of Ireland, Rex Newton, and Brian and Bryan in Whangarei with wife Marie. Westhead, District Grand Master United Grand Lodge of England were among the distinguished guests who added to this colourful line up all wearing their regalia. Wives, family, and friends joined the men for the remainder of the event in the Lodgeroom. There are 33 degrees or steps that a member of Freemasonry can achieve and as a further mark of respect for the Wiig brothers, three senior members of various higher degrees also attended Along to enjoy the event were seven other holders of a 50-year service badge, with one due for the presentation of his 70-year bar in September this year. With the two Wiig brothers that is a combined total of 470 Masonic years of caring for our communities in New Zealand in one place on the same day. Along with the presentation of the la pel badges, personal letters of congratu lation, and certificates, the wives, Marie and Carol were presented with flowers and shawls as a way of saying thank you for their support of their husbands over the last 50 years. Following these for malities, the men removed their regalia and the temporary Lodgeroom fittings were “packed up”. After the traditional Masonic toasts and replies a superb meal was served which concluded with the cutting of a very large 50th anniversary cake. A fantastic conclusion to a shared celebration of Freemasonry in the lives of two great New Zealanders. John McDonald, Northtalk 14 www.freemasonsnz.org
A hospital for Akaroa The rising pitch of the sirens awakens the senses. It’s a 111 call for help and the Akaroa emergency services are being alerted, the volunteers are on notice. What will it be? Medical emergency? A fire? A rescue? Or perhaps a dramatic road accident requiring a full turn-out? Whatever it is, help is needed, and needed fast. In response the Volunteer Fire Brigade must be ready, ready for anything, and that readiness includes the support services. with summer vacationers, There’s always a doctor on duty/call- increases to over 14,000; that out and they can only guess what that brings many problems as a siren sound means, it might be a straight good percentage of visitors medical emergency or perhaps involve are older people. One com some mountaineering skills to access ment put the incident rate at a vehicle over the side of the road and averaging more than three per down the hill. The windy hill road to day during the summer/cruise Akaroa is not for the faint-hearted! And ship period. that’s the best of the hundreds of kilome This Health Hub is not just tres of Peninsula roads. for the few locals, the need Up until the earthquakes of 2011 is to cater for the visitors Akaroa had a highly respected hospi who provide the majority of tal and although not equipped to the emergency call-outs, to make standard of the city hospitals, filled an it safer for everyone, whether important gap in local medical support. on one day or short stay visits, Besides the 24 hour service, there were emergencies don’t know the difference. Hub have been obtained in the name of beds for overnight cases and respite care. Add to that the congestion on the Freemasons New Zealand to recognise Many speak highly of their recuperation roads in and around the Bays, and to the wide support from Freemasonry. at Akaroa having been sent there after and from the City. The pressure on the The Phoenix Lodge No 43 whose medical procedures at in Christchurch. health facilities can be huge. Akaroa and mission statement is to be “A Robust Since that fateful earthquake day the Peninsula folk have banded together Member of the Akaroa/Banks Peninsula Akaroa health services have had to make to push for a restoration of the Akaroa Community”, seek to make this a suc do, shifting their base as space became Hospital and while this will not be fully cessful Freemasons New Zealand effort. available. Pompellier House, a retire realised, the local DHB has agreed to The Lodge seeks your help to reach their ment rest home, was pressed into service build a Health Hub, provided the local first step target of $25,000, before any to fill the gap but its days are numbered. community chip in with some $3 million. Trust subsidies are added. Adding to the pressure is the influx of Thus an Akaroa Health Hub Fund Contributions from individuals, cruise vessels unable to use Lyttelton, Charity has been established to which Lodges or via Lodge Projects should be often bring more than 10,000 extra The Phoenix Lodge No 43 has undertaken made to The Phoenix Health Hub Fund, people to the harbour. Thus the normal to contribute substantially. A commit P.O. Box 15, Akaroa 7542 or direct to population of 600, swollen to some 4,000 ment has been made to donate in excess Heartland Account – The Phoenix Lodge of $50,000 to the Fund for the No.43 – Charity: 03-1783-0501892-21. The Phoenix Lodge No 43. purchase of equipment and pro All donations will be handled with strict vision of amenities. As of August confidentiality however Charity receipts (2017) there is over $13,600 in are being issued to all identified donors. the Lodge Health Hub Fund with Akaroa Health Hub Limited, the fund a further $10,000 allocated by the ing body for the proposed Akaroa Health Canterbury Masonic Charitable Hub, is a registered charity; Registration Trust. number: CC50204. IRD charity rules ap In recognition of the com ply to donations over $10. mitment, Naming Rights for the VWBro TD Carrell, A&E Room at the new health Phoenix Health Hub Funding Committee www.freemasonsnz.org 15
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