Bury District Latest News
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Bury District Fellowship Christmas Lunch
Read about it HERE
The WM and Brethren of the newly amalgamated Cromwell with Papyrean Lodge with WBro Derek N Thornhill, the Provincial Deputation and Grand Officers
On Monday November 28th the Lodge Room at Bury was virtually full as the Brethren of Cromwell with Papyrean Lodge, 5771 and their guests held an Amalgamation Ceremony to celebrate the bringing together of the former Cromwell and Papyrean Lodges.
After the Lodge had been declared open by the Master, WBro Robert James Ashton, and the minutes of the last Regular Meeting had been confirmed, WBro Norman Cope, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, was admitted.
WBro Cope announced that WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge, together with a Provincial Deputation, were without and demanded admission.
WBro Ashton offered the gavel of the Lodge to WBro Thornhill which on this occasion he was pleased to accept, after which WBro Thornhill introduced the Provincial Delegation. After WBro the Rev’d John Winstanley, the Provincial Deputy Grand Chaplain, had given the opening prayer, WBro Thornhill addressed the Brethren on the purpose of the meeting.
There then followed an exceptional and extremely interesting ceremony which included the reading of the Certificate of Amalgamation by WBro John Farrington, the Provincial Grand Secretary; an Oration by WBro the Rev’d John Winstanley; the sprinkling of salt, the symbol of hospitality and friendship; the Distribution of Incense from the censer and the reciting of the Amalgamation Prayer.
In his Oration WBro the Rev’d John Winstanley was at times quite humorous and entertaining but with the utmost sincerity wished the Brethren of the newly amalgamated lodge well for the future. He spoke at length on how the coming together of these two lodges could be likened to a ‘marriage’ where both partners needed to work together to maintain and build on the partnership they were creating this evening.
All the Brethren in the Lodge Room joined together in singing “Let us have Harmony” after which the Warrants, Certificate of Amalgamation, Banners and By Laws were delivered into the care of the Worshipful Master.
As is the norm at Bury Masonic Hall the Social Board was nothing short of excellent as the members of this amalgamated lodge joined with the Deputy Grand Master in Charge, the Provincial Deputation, several Grand Lodge Officers, the District Officers and a host of visitors to celebrate the prospect of a happy and harmonious future together.
The whole evening, enjoyed by all present, was under the direction of WBro Norman Cope, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, very ably assisted by Provincial Deputy Grand Directors of Ceremonies, WBro Colin Whitaker and WBro Harold Cooper.
The Brethren of Cromwell with Papyrean Lodge 5771 with WBro Derek N Thornhill, Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge
WBro Thornhill with WBro Ashton holding the Certificate of Amalgamation
Lodge and Pub come together to raise £5,200 for Bolton Hospice
WBro Mike Bluer, the IPM of Pilkington Lodge 6522,his wife Bernice and the Brethren of Pilkington Lodge joined forces with WBro Rees Gibbon and his wife Vivien, the landlord and landlady of The Jolly Carters public house in Little Lever, to raise a staggering £5,200 for Bolton Hospice during Mike's year as Master. Many social events throughout the year, with the support of Rees, Vivien and their staff, helped to raise this massive amount. Not to be forgotten is the unique Book Club that Rees runs where donated books are rented out to customers with the profits going into the fund for the Hospice.
Mike would like to thank all the people who attended all the functions and especially the ones who donated prizes - and to some who actually sponsored the events.
At a recent visit to the Hospice, Mike, Bernice, Rees and Vivien were given a tour of the wonderful facilities the Hospice provides and on behalf of Pilkington Lodge and The Jolly Carters were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Aanika Dhillon, Community Fundraising Manager at the Hospice, in thanks for their support.
Left to Right: Bernice, Mike, Aanika Dhillon, Rees and Vivien
Since this presentation a further event at The Jolly Carters has raised another £320 for the Hospice making an amazing total of £5,520.
The '191 Golf Society'
The '191 Golf Society' met on Friday September 30th at Greenmount Golf Club. WBro John Makin sends this report of the event:
We all had an excellent day at Greenmount a week last Friday, the golf was well received by all and the weather was kind to us, if not a little too hot. The evening meal was, as usual for Greenmount’s catering team, top quality and all tastes were catered for.
The winner on the day was Harold Cooper, who played for the first time in years and walked away with the glory. I am sure the handicap secretary will put a stop to this!!
The winning team,again, comprised of Alf Blackburn, Dave Brady, Dave Grounds and David Bell, well done to you all.
The longest drive was won by Alf Blackburn, while the prize for nearest the pin was won by John Makin.
Philip Hurst took the endeavour trophy, Geoff Leach took the walking stick and winner of the “Lost Balls” was Fred Blackburn with 10. Last but not least the overall winner of the year, and recipient of the president's trophy, was David Watson.
We have planned a varied selection of courses for next year; Greenmount, Stand, Bury and Turton.
The AGM will be some time in March at Parsons Lane, Bury
For more information on the '191 Golf Society' please contact John Makin [makinj@btinternet.com]
Lodge of Relief 42 assists the London Library and Museum of Freemasonry
A few weeks ago WBro Raymond Sullivan, the Secretary of the Lodge of Relief, received a request from Susan Snell, the Archivist and Records Manager at the London Library and Museum of Freemasonry based at Great Queen Street. The request was to loan the original minutes of the Lodge covering 1733 -1770.
The Library and Museum is planning an event, 'Lodge, Locality and Livelihood' on Wednesday 12 October at Freemasons’ Hall, Bridge Street, Manchester
which will feature the Lodge of Merit.
Susan writes:
'During the afternoon session of this event, my colleagues and I are showcasing three Lodge case studies, each intended to reveal to event attendees (both Masonic and non-Masonic) how resources held at the Library and Museum of Freemasonry and local record offices, and indeed by local Lodges, often compliment each other to provide information about the history of the Lodge and the community in which it meets. The event aims to help those members preparing Lodge histories to find out about resources available for research locally and at the Library and Museum and for those researching local history or looking after archive resources to discover more about resources held at the Library and Museum of Freemasonry and what information lodge records might contain.
Working with my colleagues, Diane Clements, Director of the Library and Museum, and Len Reilly, Historical Records Survey Project Manager, we have each selected two case studies to provide as examples of how such resources interact.
For one of my case studies I have selected Lodge of Relief, No. 42, Bury as it commenced working in 1733 and has continued to work to the present day. There are many entries in the Lodge minute books that refer to local events in Bury, according to Norman Rogers’ article in AQC in 1945, entitled Two Hundred Years of Freemasonry in Bury.'
In addition, Susan requested the subsequent volume, covering the period 1770-1826, that includes references to the burial procession of the Master, Robert Haworth and details of members patronizing a play at the old assembly rooms at the Hare and Hounds, where the Lodge met in 1808; and the volume covering the period 1852 to 1881 that includes details of the PGS issuing letters to Lodges asking for details of members unable to pay Lodge fees due to ‘distress prevailing in the manufacturing districts’ on 8 February 1863. This will reveal the impact of the Lancashire Cotton Famine c.1861-1865, throughout which the Lodge of Relief continued to flourish and work.
This event should certainly be of interest not only to the Brethren of the Lodge of Relief but to all Freemasons in the District. Its free to attend, open to all and lunch and refreshments will be available.
Further details from here
The Graduate Sunday September 11th - Bolton Little Theatre
On Sunday September 11th some 80 Masons and guests enjoyed a pre-theatre buffet supper prior to entering the auditorium of Bolton Little Theatre to watch a performance of The Graduate. This was the stage version of the famous film that starred Dustin Hoffman as Ben, the graduate who had returned home to find a party being given by his parents for their friends to celebrate his graduation. When Ben remained up in his room, not wanting anything to do with the celebration downstairs, Mrs Robinson, the wife of his father's best friend comes to his room to find him.....
The standard of performance and staging by this amateur theatre company was excellent and judging by the comments in the bar in the interval and afterwards the evening was enjoyed by all present. The songs of Simon and Garfunkel, from the film version, brought back memories as they were cleverly utilised in scene changes
The evening, which had been organised by WBro Gerry Russell, Charity Steward and Festival Rep for Concord Lodge 1534, greatly assisted by WBro Steve Pollitt, Area Festival Manager, raised a sum of £630 for the EL2015 Festival.
Thanks to all who attended, those who donated raffle prizes and special thanks to Carol Butler of Bolton Little Theatre who organised everything for us.
Knowsley Lodge 4661 Annual BBQ
On the 19th of June, which was 'Father's Day' could there have been a better way to treat your father than the Knowsley Lodge Annual BBQ
Of course the fathers had to pay for their family [nothing changes there].
It was an overcast and cool day but the weather did not stop the enjoyment of approximately 75 people, including the children, who enjoyed raffles and games. The star prize was a Bury FC shirt signed by the team members who had just got their well deserved promotion. Yes they do have a football team. This raised a magnificent sum of £160.
Stuart & Sandra Cain hosted the BBQ at their home, ably assisted by Peter & Jean Crabtree. They have hosted the BBQ for many years and this year the donations were to go to Masonic Charities having donated to Ataxia UK and Cystic Fibrosis in the past. The magnificent sum of £816 was raised of which £100 was given to Ataxia and £100 given to Altziemers. The balance of £616 is to be given to the EL2015 Festival.
A massive thank you must go to Stuart Cain and Sandra and family, as well as Peter & Jean Crabtree, for allowing the Lodge to host the BBQ. Thanks as well to everybody who turned up on the day to help and support the Festival Charity. Unfortunately, or not as the case maybe, judging by what some of the members were wearing, the WM forgot his camera!
The '191 Golf Society'
On Friday 22nd July the fourth golf outing of the season of the Lodge of St John number 191, known as the “191 Golf Society”, took place at Pike Fold Golf Club.
The turnout was good with 20 playing, and the course was in excellent condition.
The results are as follows:-
Overall winner, Alf Blackburn with 38 points
2nd place, Chris Taylor with 37 points
Nearest the pin on the 14th, Frank Brooks
Longest drive on the 17th, Bernie Fenton.
Walking stick and endeavour trophy went to Maurice Birch and Phil Mountford.
The bandits team prize went to Alf Blackburn, Dave Brady, Bren Herreran and David Bell.
The wettest member was Jeremy Aston, who lost the most balls in water, (he would have been better playing with a bucket and spade).
Chris Taylor - Second Place
Phil Mountford - Endeavour
Bernie Fenton - Longest Drive
Jeremy Aston - Most Lost Balls in the Water
Frank Brooks - Nearest the Pin
The next outing for anybody interested is at Greenmount on 30th September, and can contact the secretary via email john595171@btinternet.com
District Secretary Paul Sellers Receives Mentor Award
On Wednesday 25th May at the Holiday Inn in Bolton, The Bolton lads and Girls Club held an awards evening where District Secretary, Paul Sellers, was given an award for 5 years of continuous mentoring to young people.
Some of the mentees gave a speech revealing their own emotional stories from the beginning of their start with the Mentee programme and how much their lives have changed for the better.
To listen to their stories really puts your own privileged lives into perspective. This was so much the case that Elaine, the wife of Paul Sellers has volunteered to join the Mentor programme. The club is desperate for men and women of all ages to volunteer as they have so many children in need of pairing up. You don't need any skills as the Club match you up to a young person and can be any age to become a mentor. Full and comprehensive training is given and all the support you ever need is done by a co-ordinator.
One question you need to ask yourself is; "We all very quick to take from life but how much do we really give back?". Now is your chance, it is so rewarding to help a young person to have a better life, it may not be perfect, but don't they deserve the chance.
Please contact Paul if you want to help pasellers@me.com or 07525 133565 for more information or contact the club direct on 01204 540111.
Paul with his Award and his Mentor Co-ordinator, Jackie Lord
Bury & Radcliffe District Dinner - Friday 13th May 2011
For the 80 guests who attended the Bury District Dinner at Radcliffe Masonic Hall this was an excellent and most enjoyable evening. The District Chairman, WBro John Griffin, welcomed all the guests which included the APGM, WBro Philip Mountford, the APGP, EComp David Thornton and the guest speaker for the evening, WBro Martin Roche, the APGM for Northern Area No2. The evening, which had been organised by the District Secretary, WBro Paul Sellers, was hosted by the Deputy District Chairman, WBro Mike Gibbons. Also present were the rest of the District Officers and the Area Festival Manager, WBro Steve Pollitt.
The Chairman thanked all the District Representatives for the work they do and for ensuring such a good attendance at the dinner.
The evening commenced with an excellent five course meal from Garsdales, the hall caterers, during which the 120 Club draw was made.
Dinner was followed by the District Charity Stewards Annual Prize Draw, the first prize being a 32" HD Television, with many other prizes to be won (mainly liquid!). It was later announced that this draw had raised in excess of £1000.
The highlight of the evening was the after dinner speaker, WBro Martin P Roche, PJGD, APGM, who gave an excellent presentation, "Freemasonry in the 21st Century". Although presented with much humour, producing a great deal of laughter from the assembled guests, WBro Roche gave a thought provoking address with respect to our future as Freemasons. He set out ten objectives that he considered to be essentials in maintaining and developing the 21st Century Lodge which were received with many 'nods' of approval by the guests. A synopsis of his ten objectives was distributed to all present.
In giving his thanks to the District Secretary, WBro Paul Sellers, the Chairman announced that it was in fact Paul's birthday which obviously resulted in a rousing chorus of 'Happy Birthday'.
The evening concluded with the District Chairman presenting a bottle of wine to the winner of the Bury District News Caption Competition, WBro Barrie Holder.
From the Left: WBro Philip Mountford, WBro John Griffin, WBro Martin Roche and EComp David Thornton
WBro Barrie Holder receives his Caption Competition Prize from WBro John Griffin
Greek Night at Lodge of Relief No 42 - April 21st 2011
The second oldest Lodge in the Province, Lodge of Relief, No 42, held a Produce Night in Bury’s best kept secret, The Masonic Hall, Parsons Lane, on Thursday 21 April 2011. The theme of the evening was Greek. Following a short business meeting, members retired to join their wives, partners and non-Masonic guests in the Lounge bar for pre - dinner drinks and canapés. Mike Clare and his wife Janet, who had orchestrated the whole evening, started things off with a number of games. Everyone then retired to the Jack Huddart Suite to enjoy a 4 course gourmet meal of Greek style food prepared by executive chef Sean McElernelay and his brigade of assistants.
After dinner the inimitable Mike go things going once again, accompanied by Greek background music, more games and raffles. The evening was brought to a close by the Worshipful Master, Eric Howarth, giving a personal thank you to Mike for organising such a most enjoyable evening. He then presented Janet with a beautiful fresh orchid in thanks for all the work she had undertaken for the evening. The night raised over £200.00 for charitable causes; the majority of prizes being donated by Lodge members. D. Byrne & Co, the halls wine and spirit supplier, donated 12 bottles of their fine wine in support of the evening.
The Lodge wishes to thank all members and their guests for supporting the occasion
ELMC Community Fund Grant of £1700 to Bury Cancer Support Centre
Lodge of St John, No 191, recently made application to the ELMC Community Fund Committee for a grant of £1700 to assist the Bury Cancer Support Centre. The purpose of the grant was to replace ageing equipment and to purchase new.
Richard Wright. representing the Lodge of St John, and Stuart Cass, District Charity Steward, present the cheque to Stanley Gilbert of the Bury Cancer Support Centre
Representing the centre Stanley Gilbert said that the centre has benefitted from the wonderful generosity of masons over a considerable length of time. The centre is based at St. James Church, Walshaw, but the long term aim is to operate from its own premises. However this will require a significant influx of money so any benefactors out there are invited to contact the centre.
WBro Peter Anderton - 50years in Freemasonry
Fairway Lodge 6693 - Tuesday 19th April 2011
The Brethren of Fairway Lodge, together with their visitors, were pleased to celebrate the 50th anniversary of WBro Peter Anderton being initiated into their Lodge. The Lodge was opened in due form at 6.30 pm at Bury Masonic Hall.
Upon a report, the APGM, WBro Philip Mountford, together with WBro Howard Berry; WBro John Griffin, the District Chairman and a District Delegation were admitted to the Lodge.
The Master, WBro Roger Bowden, offered the gavel to WBro Mountford which, on this occasion, he was pleased to accept. After introducing the delegation WBro Mountford invited the Lodge Secretary, WBro Les Harrison, to read the minutes of the meeting of April 6th 1961 at which WBro Anderton had been initiated. It was revealed that Peter had been initiated by his father, who was also his proposer, while he had been seconded by his uncle who had been a founder of the lodge.
WBro Harrison then presented a moving tribute to Peter in which he recounted on his life as a Freemason, while WBro Mountford went through his various offices and promotions to Peter now having the rank of PProvGSwdB.
Born on July 15th 1927 Peter had been raised in Lower Broughton before moving with his family to Kings Road, Prestwich. Peter had joined the family building business and had met his wife and life long companion Monica and they set up home in Park Lane, Whitefield. Note was made that when they held their Ladies Evening there had been over 200 guests present, unfortunately not a number to be seen today. Sadly Peter lost Monica in January 2004.
WBro Mountford then listed some of the events and costs of goods in 1961, for example, a Minivan could be purchased for £360; Typhoo Tea was 1s & 6p as were six eggs; Charlie Drake was on BBC and Double Your Money on ITV
WBro Mountford then read a letter from the Provincial Grand Master congratulating Peter before presenting him with an illuminated certificate to mark his 50 years. A lapel badge denoting 50 years was also presented on behalf of the District.
Peter was led around the lodge by WBro David Bristol, PrDepGDC, to the applause of all present.
This special ceremony was followed by 50 brethren and guests sitting down to an excellent Social Board where WBro Michael Wyatt proposed a toast to Peter’s health which Peter had great pleasure in responding to. A 50th anniversary cake was presented which Peter insisted that everybody should have a piece of.
WBro Peter Anderton with the APGM, the District Chairman and Members of Fairway Lodge
WBro Anderton with the APGM and the District Delegation
The Illuminated Certificate is Presented
WBro Anderton takes wine with WBro Philip Mountford, APGM and WBro Roger Bowden, WM
The Celebration Cake is Cut
WBro Peter Anderton salutes and thanks the Brethren of Fairway Lodge
WBro Norman Pickles - 60years in Freemasonry
Lodge of Faith 344 - Thursday 14th April 2011
There was not a vacant seat as 75 Brethren and Guests packed into the Lodge room at Radcliffe Masonic Hall for the meeting of the Lodge of Faith, no 344. This was to be a very special meeting to celebrate 60 years in Freemasonry of WBro Norman Pickles, PAGDC, where the ceremony was to be conducted by the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price.
The Lodge was opened in due form by the Master, WBro Paul Easterbrook. On a report the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Norman Cope, was admitted to the Lodge where he announced that the Provincial Grand Master and a Provincial Delegation were without and demanded admission.
The PGM accepted the gavel and the Provincial Wardens and Officers took their places in the Lodge
The PGM's first task was to introduce the delegation which included WBro Philip Mountford,APGM; EComp David Thornton, APGP; WBro Harry Hesmondhalgh, PSGD.PAPGM; WBro David Dunn, ProvSGW and WBro John Griffin,ProvJGW.
The PGM invited the Secretary of the Lodge to read the Minutes of the Meeting of the Lodge when Norman had been initiated. This meeting was held at The Rams Head Public House on April 12th 1951 when Norman was 25 years old and working as a journalist.
WBro Royston Gill then presented what he announced as a 'Ripping Yarn', a very amusing, and mainly factual, resumme of Norman's life and times as a Freemason. For many years Norman has been Mentor of the Lodge and many initiates have good cause to thank him for his encouragement and support. This was an excellent presentation given to the delight of all present, so much so that the PGM requested a copy be affixed to the minutes of the meeting.
A moving address was then given by the Provincial Grand Master who paid great tribute to Norman's contribution to Freemasonry, in both the Lodge and the Province. Norman had been a major influence in the introduction of communication around the Province, long before computers, text messaging or the website. He had instigated the first notions of a communication team, which has since developed into the Communications Committee, so it is perhaps most significant that this report on his 60th year should be appearing on the Provincial Website developed from his early initiative. The PGM spoke of '60 years of Commitment and endeavour' and concluded with the words 'This man is history, this man is the present and this man is the future'
The illuminated certificate to commemorate the occasion was read to Norman and the Brethren by WBro Philip Mountford, APGM, and presented to Norman by the PGM, after which Norman was conducted round the Lodge, to receive the applause of the brethren, by WBro Norman Cope, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies.
WBro Pickles with the Provincial Grand Master, the Provincial Delegation and Members of the Lodge of Faith
WBro Norman Pickles with the Provincial Grand Master and WBro Paul Easterbrook, Master of the Lodge.
An excellent Social Board followed, during which a toast to WBro Pickles was proposed by WBro Roy Fairhurst, the Director of Ceremonies of the Lodge. WBro Fairhurst then presented Norman with a Crystal Decanter, a gift from the Brethren of the Lodge. The appearance of a huge birthday cake, accompanied by the Brethren rendering a verse of 'Happy Birthday' left Norman almost speechless, yet still able to stand and respond admirably to his toast.
He recounted that he had been initiated on his 25th birthday and in order to do so had cut short his honeymoon! His first experience as a Freemason was being appointed assistant organist. This was because his father was the organist of the lodge and Norman's duty was stand to the right of the organ with a large handle to operate the bellows!
This was a most inspiring evening with every one present hoping to be invited to the 70th anniversary of WBro Norman Pickles as a Freemason.
WBro Pickles takes wine with the Provincial Grand Master and the Worshipful Master of the Lodge
The Brethren of the Lodge of Faith and their Guests
WBro Pickles and the top table
WBro Pickles with his decanter from the lodge presented to him by WBro Roy Fairhurst
The Birthday Cake had arrived
WBro Norman Pickles, PAGDC, 60 years a Freemason
An Excellent Ceremony of Initiation at Earl of Lathom Lodge 2560
Wednesday April 6th 2011
‘That’s as good as it gets’ is an expression one often hears after a first class ceremony has been presented but the Ceremony of Initiation at Earl of Lathom Lodge 2560 certainly was ‘as good as it gets’. Eleven visitors, including WBro John Griffin, the District Chairman, joined the brethren to witness the initiation of Bro Harvey Wood. Harvey had been proposed into the lodge by Bro David Kyme and seconded by WBro Derek Moran so it was most appropriate that WBro Moran took the Master’s chair and Bro Kyme, being the Junior Deacon, conducted the candidate round the lodge.
The whole ceremony was a pleasure to watch but perhaps the surprise of the evening came when the Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice were perfectly presented by Bro Michael Bailey who had only been initiated himself on February 2nd. Bro Bailey had joined the Lodge after being interviewed by the Chairman and Deputy Chairman as he had made a direct approach to join a lodge in the District.
An excellent rendering of the Charge was given by WBro Anthony Barker, the Junior Warden, while WBro Stephen Wood gave the address in the North East corner. On the completion of the ceremony WBro Moran invited the Master, WBro Malcolm Ashton, JP, to resume his rightful place and thanked him for allowing him to conduct the ceremony.
A very affable Social Board followed the meeting where the quality of the catering at Bury Masonic Hall was once again proved to be first class. In responding to the Provincial Toast the District Chairman took the opportunity to remind the brethren of the importance of the RMBI 2015 Festival and encouraged them to give it their full support.
The toast to the Initiate was given by his proposer, Bro David Kyme, to which Bro Harvey Wood gave a very confident response. The Mentor of the Lodge, WBro Ian Smith, then presented Bro Wood with a copy of the text of the ceremony, a summons for the evening and other useful documents.
A class of Port rounded of this very enjoyable evening which was managed in a most pleasant manner by WBro Toni Hankins, the DC of the Lodge.
The Candidate, Bro Harvey Wood, takes wine, or in this case beer, with WBro Malcolm Ashton, the Master of the Lodge
Bro Harvey Wood receives his presentation from WBro Ian Smith, the Almoner and Mentor
Bro Harvey Wood with his Proposer, Bro David Kyme, Junior Deacon, and his Seconder, WBro Derek Moran, who conducted the ceremony
L-R: WBro John Griffin, WBro Malcolm Ashton, Bro Harvey Wood and WBro Derek Moran
The 33 Degrees at Pythagoras Lodge of Installed Masters No 9248
Although Pythagoras Lodge of Installed Masters No 9248 only meets twice in the year, a visit to this rather special lodge is always worthwhile. At the meeting on Friday March 25th held at Radcliffe Masonic Hall a virtually full Lodge Room was the venue for 'The 33 Degrees of Freemasonry'. This presentation has been researched and written by WBro Michael Clare and is usually presented jointly with WBro Donald Peacock but unfortunately WBro Peacock was not well enough to attend.
WBro Clare used a Power Point presentation to illustrate his very interesting lecture which went into some depth on each of the degrees from Entered Apprentice right through to the 33rd Degree. To show the design of the apron relative to each degree WBro Clare not only showed these on the appropriate slide but had the assistance of members of the lodge who wore them.
Having discussed the degrees from 4 to 32 WBro Clare explained that the 33rd degree, Grand Inspector General, could only be held in England by no more than 75 masons at any time. English 33rd degree masons have included Winston Churchill, Prince Phillip and the Duke of Kent while worldwide such celebrities as Walt Disney, Jeese James, Bill Clinton and Bob Hawke have all aspired to the 33rd degree.
After WBro Clare had concluded his presentation further information was given by RWBro Paul Rink,OBE,
concerning the various chapters that brethren may wish to join.
The Master of the Lodge, WBro Michael Atkins, on behalf of all present,
thanked WBro Clare for a splendid and informative presentation. An excellent social board followed the meeting
WBro Michael Clare, 4th from the left with, on his left, the Master of Pythagoras Lodge, WBro Michael Atkins, accompanied by the Brethren of the Lodge who had assisted with the presentation.
Left to right - WBro Bryan Southern, Secretary; WBro Paul Cichy,ADC; WBro Alfred Blackburn, DC; WBro Stuart Cass;
WBro Gordon Taylor and WBro Howard Berry.
WBro Michaell Clare at the Top Table
The Brethren of Pythagoras Lodge and their guests
Installation at Fairway Lodge No 6693
Bury Masonic Hall, Tuesday March 15th 2011
It was a very special evening at Fairway Lodge No 6693 when WBro Roger P. Bowden was installed as Master of the Lodge in the presence of the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price.
Although Fairway Lodge has only eighteen members there was hardly an empty seat in the Lodge Room with a total of 87 brethren being present including most of the Bury District Officers led by the District Chairman, WBro John Griffin. Fairway Lodge has a strong connection with Lodges in North Wales so it was no surprise that a party of brethren from LLandudno were in attendance.
Once the Lodge had been opened the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Norman Cope, PAGDC, was admitted who called the brethren to order to receive the Provincial Grand Master accompanied by WBro Philip Mountford, APGM; WBro David Thornton, APGP; together with six Officers of United Grand Lodge.
The brethren present witnessed an excellent ceremony very confidently conducted by the Installing Master, WBro Bryan George. WBro George has been travelling to Bury from LLandudno since the late 1980's and in that time has hardly missed a meeting, bringing in excess of 300 visitors with him to support the Lodge over the years. He was made an Honorary Member in 2001, a position he voluntary relinquished in 2008 in order to allow him to take the Chair as he felt the Lodge was entering a period of decline. WBro George took the position of Senior Warden prior to becoming Worshipful Master for 2009-2010 and again for 2010-2011. Thanks to his effort and support the Lodge is now able to continue and look well to the future.
WBro George presented the Address to the new Worshipful Master; WBro Les Harrison, the address to the Wardens and WBro Tom Neild, the address to the Brethren with the tools being presented to the Worshipful Master by the Lodge Treasurer, WBro D. McDermid. The ceremony was in the charge of the DC of the Lodge, WBro Mark Smith.
An excellent meal was provided at the very vibrant Social Board. On rising to respond to the Toasts the Provincial Grand Master spoke of his love and passion for Freemasonry; on his ongoing recovery from his illness and the care and dedication given to him by, not only his wife, but all the doctors and nurses who had looked after him and continue so to do. The PGM emphasised the vital importance of the RMBI, the need for the festival and urged everone to support it. He also paid tribute to the the 'High Rulers of the Craft' who travel the world representing the UGLE and to the Officers of United Grand Lodge for the duties they carry out.Finally he spoke about communication, the importance of not only recieving visitors but makng visits to other Lodges and the necessity to talk to each other rather than just e-mailing!
The Brethren of Fairway Lodge No 6693 with their guests
The Brethren of Fairway Lodge No 6693 with their guests
The Top Table
WBro Roger Bowden draws the raffle under the watchful eye of WBro Mark Smith, the DC
WBro Bryan George, IPM, waits for his number to be drawn
Bro Roger K. Roscow's Personal 50th Celebration
Lodge of Relief No 42 - Thursday February 17th 2011
Bro Roger K. Roscow, of Lodge of Relief No 42, certainly had a night to remember when the Lodge celebrated his fifty years as a Freemason. The Brethren and a large gathering of visitors received the APGM, WBro Philip Mountford, PSGD; the APGP, E.Comp David Thornton, PGStB; the Deputy Chairman of the RMBI 2015 Festival, WBro Brian Sigsworth, ProvGChStwd; the District Chairman, WBro John Griffin, ProvJGW and a District Delegation.
The Worshipful Master, WBro Eric Howarth, had pleasure in offering the gavel to the APGM who, on this occasion, was pleased to accept it. WBro Mountford called upon the Lodge Secretary, WBro Raymond Sullivan to read the minutes of the meeting of the Lodge when Bro Roscow was initiated. An interesting side note of these minutes was that the Province of Lancashire (Eastern Area) and the Province of Lancashire (Western Area) were to become two separate Provinces as we know them today.
A tribute to Bro Roscow’s fifty years was given by his very close friend of 55 years, WBro Kelvin Gaskell. This was an exemplary and moving tribute and included much about WBro Roscow’s battles with cancer and the tragic loss of several of his family members over the years.
WBro Mountford then took the assembled Brethren back to 1961 with a résumé of the cost of everyday items, what was on the television, who was in Parliament, among other things, before giving an outline of Bro Roscow’s life, both in and out of the Lodge.
WBro Mountford then presented Bro Roscow with an Illuminated Certificate and a letter from the PGM, RW Bro Jack Price, both of which were read out to the Lodge.
The Ceremony was concluded by the Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Harold Cooper, perambulating Bro Roscow around the Lodge to the spontaneous applause of the Brethren.
At the very enjoyable social board a table plan was signed by all present and given to Bro Roscow as a memento of his special evening. In the response to his toast Bro Roscow offered special thanks to his good friend WBro Gaskell for the excellent tribute he had given in the Lodge.
Bro Roscow with the APGM, WBro Philip Mountford; APGP, E.Comp David Thornton; the District Delegation and the Brethren of the Lodge of Relief
Front Row L to R: WBro John Griffin, E.Comp David Thornton, Bro Roger Roscow, WBro Philip Mountford, WBro Eric Howarth, WBro Brian Sigsworth
Bro Roscow with WBro Mountford and the Officers and Brethren of the Lodge of Relief
WBro Mountford presents the Illuminated Certificate to Bro Roscow
accompanied by the Worshipful Master, WBro Eric Howarth
The Brethren of the Lodge of Relief with their Guests at the Social Board
APGM, WBro Philip Mountford and the WM, WBro Eric Howarth take wine
with Bro Roger Roscow
Bro Roscow receives the table plan signed by all present from
the WM, WBro Eric Howarth
Lodge of St John 191 Golf Society
To further building of friendship among the brethren we in the Lodge of St John 191 thought it a good idea to meet occasionally on a golf course. But being mediocre golfers in the main didn’t want to make it a serious affair, so some like minded social golfers got together in 2007 and headed off to Breightmet golf course. This was the inauguration of the “191 Golf Society”. From then to the current day the “Society” has grown in numbers and we have played on various local courses.
Any “like minded golfer” can join the society, Masonic as well as non Masonic friends, relations and partners. Meetings are held five times a year throughout the summer, usually followed by a dinner where the tales of glorious drives and missed putts are related.
If any one wishes to join the society they would be most welcome at any of the following venues this year:-
Harwood on Friday 8th April 2011
Greenmount on Thursday 18th May 2011
Lowes Park on Friday 24th June 2011
Pike Fold on Friday 22nd July 2011
And finishing at Greenmount on Friday 30th September, where we have the captains dinner and presentation of trophies.
Membership forms and further information can be obtained from the secretary, John Makin via email, makinj@btinternet.com or mobile 07792201798.
District Secretary Paul Sellers Receives National Mentoring Award
Further to the previous article, it is with great pleasure that we report that WBro Paul Sellers, Secretary of Bury District, has won the title of UK Mentor of the Year in the ‘Supporting Life's Journeys’ Awards. Paul had previously won the title for the North of England and, as a result, was one of the six national finalists who were entered for this whole of England award.
Paul travelled with his wife, Elaine, and his Mentee, to a ceremony at the Church House Conference Centre in London where, after having been elected winner, he was presented with his award by TV personality Esther Rantzen.
This award, given by the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation, was contested by no less than 300 applicants which gives an indication as to the commitment and dedication Paul has given to his role as a mentor.
Paul gives his time to the Bolton Lads and Girls Club where his Mentee, Chris, is a member and it was obviously a great first experience for Chris to visit London. The story of Paul’s work with the club appeared in the Bolton News on November 24th and may be viewed at The Bolton News link
Congratulations Paul, you are a shining example to us all.
WBro Paul Sellers - Winner of the UK Mentor of the Year Award
with Esther Rantzen and Stuart Graham of the Befriending Organisation
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Gerry Russell
Bury District Communications Officer
grussell@gnsystems.co.uk