Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire

Amalgamation of a Lodge / Chapter

AGENDA FOR FINAL LODGE MEETING

The following is a recommended outline for the agenda of the final Summons to the last Meeting
of a closing Lodge. [Not to be used when the Lodge is to be amalgamated into another Lodge].

1. To Open the Lodge.

2. To read and if approved, confirm the Minutes of the previous Regular Meeting held on ............

3. Approval for the decisions taken at the previous meeting:-

    [a]   The artefacts of the Lodge to be disposed of as directed by the Worshipful Master, Secretary, Treasurer and a            senior Past Master, with any remaining items being submitted to the Province for re-allocation as appropriate.

    [b]   The Masters Chain [where applicable] to be handed over to ………………..

    [c]   All monies remaining in the Lodge accounts to be consolidated and used to:-

  • settle all outstanding debts and dues;
  • pay the joining fees of the Members into their new Lodges;
  • make donations to the following charities [specify the amounts and the names of the charities chosen, whether Masonic    or non-Masonic]
  • make provision to pay for a display-case, if sending artefacts to PGL.
  • make provision through the ELMC for the future care of the Lodge Widows;
  • pay any remaining balance to [specify selected good cause/Lodge].

      [d]  That all Lodge records, registers, minute books and accounts books be finalised and passed to the Provincial Grand         Secretary for safe keeping.

      [e]  To pass to the Provincial Grand Secretary:
  • a list of the Lodge Widows with the request that henceforth they be cared for under the arrangements made with the    ELMC;
  • a list of the Members at the time of closure and showing the Lodges to which each will transfer.
  • lists of the names and addresses of the Charities and sums given.
  • show where Joining Fees have been paid for Brethren.
  • lists items and to whom they have been transferred.
  • list unallocated items required for disposal by Province.

    4. To receive and, if approved, pass provisional Accounts as presented by the Treasurer and duly audited.    

    5. To elect Trustees to ensure that the closure of the Lodge affairs are in accordance with the above resolutions and to     close the final accounts. [The Worshipful Master, Secretary, Treasurer, Almoner and a Senior Past Master are      recommended].

    6.To agree that the final Accounts to be drawn up and duly audited, after all transactions are complete.

    7. To collect Alms.

    8. To receive a brief address on the History of the Lodge delivered by Bro …..........…

    9. The Worshipful Master to hand over the Warrant to the Assistant Provincial Grand Master or his representative.

    10. Response by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

    11. To finally close the Lodge.

    Any of these items may be amended or further items added to suit the needs of the particular Lodge concerned.  If in doubt, consult further with the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Co-ordinator or the Provincial Grand Secretary.