May & June 2014

 

On May 12th Witton lodge was honoured by an Official Visit of the Most Worshipful Grand Master and officers of Grand Lodge.

Although WM David Hole had planned something special in the way of ritual, opening the lodge in each degree and then closing each degree following a reading of a selected charge, he was not responsible for the biggest surprise of the evening.

Halfway through the second degree, there was a distinct lack of light, as the power went off !

All credit to the lodge members as we persevered in the near darkness; the emergency exit light and the DC’s flashlight providing the only illumination. Light was restored just in time for the Grand Master’s final comments at the “first time of asking”. The novelty of the event led many members to comment on how much more meaningful the ritual became when presented in semi darkness.

 

The Grand Master commented favourably on the festive board and the fine fare provided once again by our Master’s wife Margaret, adding that the buffet style presentation enabled brethren to mingle much more than was possible than being seated at tables. An excellent evening for all.

 

Tuesday June 10th  and once again, WM David had an unusual evening in store. Due to the most pleasing increase in lodge membership and the resultant “workload”, it was decided to deliver the first degree tracing board lecture and then follow it with a full second degree working including the tracing board of that degree! WB John Flashman undertook the delivery of  both tracing boards (some 14 pages of ritual committed to memory). A mammoth undertaking. Well done John!

 

If you would like the opportunity to present a piece of the ritual don’t be shy. Let Len Miller, our DC, know and you will receive every assistance. Lodge is meant to provide a character building experience in a friendly and non-threatening environment, it becomes so much more enjoyable when you can fully participate in the ceremonies. There will be many initiations to complete in the coming year so even our present entered apprentices and fellow craft can be involved in the ritual work.

 

 

Please remember that Witton also has Witton Mark lodge and Witton Royal Arch Chapter convocation. Both will welcome your membership. Simply direct your questions about either Witton Mark or Chapter to our

WM David or SW Paul.

 

Our very own charity, The Freemason’s Foundation, has expended so far this financial year, the sum of $395 037.00 in charitable works in South Australia. The Foundation is the sole sponsor of the Freemason’s Foundation Centre For Men’s Health in the University of Adelaide. The aim of the centre’s research is to make the life of men (that’s us guys) healthier, happier and longer. Whilst major breakthroughs do take time, incremental advances provide ongoing benefits that seldom make headlines. Improved treatments and recovery processes, prevention regimes all result from the research being undertaken. 

 

The vast amount of information now coming from the Foundation, Grand Lodge and the University means that every mason as well as private individuals can access the several web sites newsletters and the ‘blog', and know exactly what is happening.

The Foundation also provides news through facebook. You can support our own charity by becoming a life member.

Life Membership is $500 and it can be paid over a time period not exceeding 5 years. (Equivalent to a latte a week). See RWB Richard Flashman, our JW for an application form or for more information.

 

Our Care Officer, Richard Lumsden is keen to learn of any brother who is unwell so that he can take whatever action is required.