News

Weekly Update 2nd December 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 02 December 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

Over the past week I have been delighted to receive much positive feedback regarding the Conference. My thanks to all Brethren who have taken the time to be in touch.

Last Sunday, Grand Secretary and I hosted the second Zoom meeting for young Masons. We had over 150 Brethren registered to attend but only eighty on the day. I am a bit concerned that there was a technical issue somewhere along the line – I had difficulty getting connected to zoom and was successful on the third or fourth attempt after rebooting the computer. If you tried to connect but could not join the session, my sincere apologies. Hopefully, the next session will be easier to navigate. However, for those who did join, we had a very enlightening and positive session following a presentation from Brother Will Rowan from Ayrshire. The plan is to form a network of young Masons groups throughout the Provinces and Districts to promote education, retention of members, recruitment of new members, socialising, and the building of new skills.

I was most impressed by the enthusiasm, the interest, and the eagerness to promote the network. We will take the project forward through the Information and Communications Committee and in consultation with Provincial and District Grand Masters. This will be an excellent platform for those Brethren who are the future of Scottish Freemasonry.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6971 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1412, submitted by 413 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 412 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Aberdeen City, Fife & Kinross, Glasgow & Linlithgowshire.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,843,881.

SCFS Overseas Report

We were delighted to publish information from Brother Danny Langcay, Lodge Ivanhoe, No. 879, Western Australia, who shared news of a sizeable donation of over £1700 to the charity “Cancer Teenager”. This was made on behalf of the Filipino Australian Masonic Club of Western Australia, comprising members of Lodge Ivanhoe and other lodges within the Districts of Western Australia, and Western Australia, Goldfields … the presentation being made at the Club’s early Christmas Party.

The Overseas membership continues to increase, helped by new members joining from several Lodges. Of note this week were Lodge Eleutheran Adventurers, No. 1816 (Bahamas) and Lodge Maritzburg County, No. 996 (KwaZulu Natal).

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS such as: Symbolic GL of Hungary, United GL of Victoria, GL of Nigeria, GL of Colorado, GL of Greece, and UGLE. There are now 1664 such members.

** We are grateful to those Overseas Lodges and Districts/Superintendencies which have recently shared news and look forward to further publishing similar posts from them and others.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The Glasgow Phoenix Choir Christmas Concert will be held in Freemasons’ Hall, Edinburgh on Sunday 11^th December at 2.30 pm for 3.00 pm. Tickets can be reserved through Grand Lodge Reception – only £10 per ticket. This year, in commemoration of the ascension of King Charles III, the choir will perform “Zadok the Priest” as part of the concert.

I am looking forward to attending two installation meetings this weekend. Tonight, I will be in Lodge Fortrose No 108 in Stornoway and tomorrow afternoon Lodge St Clement No 1353 in Tarbert, Harris.

I am aware that there are still several Lodges who have not celebrated milestone events such as Centenaries that should have taken place during the lockdown period. Grand Lodge is keen to celebrate those events with you albeit two years late. They are significant dates in your history. If your Lodge falls into that category and you are keen to have a Rededication Ceremony, please ask your Secretary to contact Assistant Grand Secretary, Brother Duncan MacFadyen, and we will make suitable arrangements. Likewise, I am happy to celebrate similar events in any of the Districts I will be in during the coming year – in the first instance contact your District Grand Secretary to have the celebration included in the itinerary and they in turn will contact Assistant Grand Secretary.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 25th November 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 25 November 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

What a week it has been. A truly successful 4^th International Scottish Masonic Conference. My sincere thanks go to Brother Ken Kennedy, Chairman of the Conference Committee, and his Conference Committee, all of whom really pulled out the stops to make it a memorable week. The Conference Stewards did a marvellous job ensuring that everyone was in the right place at the right time. Many thanks to all the 300 plus delegates, especially all those from overseas, who attended along with wives and partners – I sincerely hope that you all enjoyed yourselves and found the week interesting, stimulating and a worthwhile experience. The 5^th Conference will be held in Beirut in May 2025.

Yesterday, I was honoured to be once again installed as your Grand Master Mason at the hands of Past Grand Master Brother Charles Iain Robert Wolrige Gordon of Esslemont who did an excellent job as always.

Over the past year Brother Jim Bell and Brother Jim Peddie have carried out their duties as Depute and Substitute Grand Masters in an impeccable manner and I thank them both for their support and commitment.

I now very much look forward to working with our new Depute and Substitute – Brother Bud Gauld and Brother Alexander Moncrieff and would ask you all to give them your support as you have done in the past.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6961 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1407, submitted by 410 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 410 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Edinburgh, Glasgow, Lanarkshire Upper Ward, Linlithgowshire, Moray & Nairn, Perthshire West and Renfrewshire West

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,827,946.

SCFS Overseas Report .

We were delighted to publish information from Brother Scott Bartlett, IPDGM, District Grand Lodge of Newfoundland and Labrador, who shared news of sizeable donations to both the “Kids Eat Smart” and the “School Lunch Program” which were realised as a result of the 2022 Masonic Charity Golf Tournament. In addition, information about a £500 donation to “Make it a Million” on behalf of the District was noted.

A further post highlighted the support of Lodge Pelican, No. 1750, Barbados, for Prostate Cancer detection through the Barbados Cancer Centre. The Lodge made an excellent donation of £650.

The Overseas membership continues to increase. New members joining from the following Lodges this week helped reach the current total of 1870 members: Lodge St. George, No. 200 (Bermuda), Lodge Naval and Military, No. 848 (Far East), Lodge Alpha, No. 1594 (Guyana), Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (Western Australia, Goldfields), and Lodge Wellington, No. 1385 (Belgium).

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. It was a particular pleasure to welcome into the group Brother Mikel Stoops, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

We are now very much into our Installation season, and I would take this opportunity to wish all new Masters, Wardens, and Office-bearers at home and overseas a very happy, productive, and meaningful term in office.

We think today of all our Sikh Brethren who, yesterday, marked the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahador Ji

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 18th November 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 18 November 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

Only two days to go until the start of the 4^th International Scottish Masonic Conference. I am truly looking forward to welcoming the delegates and their wives and partners from home and abroad to what I’m sure will be a momentous week in Scottish Freemasonry.

Conferences such as this don’t just happen – it takes a lot of effort. I am indebted to Brother Ken Kennedy, Chairman of the Organising Committee and Brother Kalpesh Shah, Organising Secretary, and the entire Committee for the vast amount of work they have carried out in a relatively short timescale to ensure that all will go to plan over the next week.

The programme has been enhanced by Brother Christopher Wong, District Grand Master of the Far East, agreeing that he and two of his Commission will be installed at a special meeting of Grand Lodge on Monday 21^st November. All duly qualified Brethren are given a very warm welcome to join us in Grand Lodge on Monday night.

On Thursday we will have the Grand Lodge Installation Meeting followed by the Festival of St Andrew in the Edinburgh Conference Centre. During the Festival, we will present the final cheque

of £1.1 million to Mr Adam Gaines from Prostate Scotland. My heartfelt thanks to everyone at home and abroad who has contributed toward this magnificent sum.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6954 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1391, submitted by 410 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 409 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire West, Dumfriesshire, East Lothian, Forfarshire, Galloway, Glasgow, Lanarkshire Upper Ward, Moray & Nairn, and Perthshire East.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,740,541.

SCFS Overseas Report .

We were delighted to publish information from Brother Scott Bartlett, IPDGM, District Grand Lodge of Newfoundland and Labrador, who shared news of a generous donation by Lodge Humber, No. 1475, to the Canadian Red Cross in the support of Hurricane Fiona Relief Fund, the hurricane being the costliest and most intense tropical cyclone to hit Canada on record.

The Overseas membership still continues to increase. New members joining from the following Lodges this week helped reach the current total of 1865 members: Lodge Golden Thistle, No. 840, Lodge Broonhill, No. 983, Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (all from Western Australia, Goldfields), Lodge Turffontein, No. 1556, and Lodge Thistle, No. 942 (Central South Africa), and Lodge St. Anne’s, No. 1751 (Bahamas).
In addition, new members were approved from Lodges in amity with the GLoS, such as the GL of Newfoundland and Labrador, GL of Western Australia, GL of Alberta, GL of Cyprusand the GL of the Philippines. Particular reference must be made to an excellent response from brethren under the GL of Canada in the Province of Ontario. Thanks are extended to our 1655 such members for helping to share news, worldwide, of the wonderful charitable and community support featured in the group’s posts.

Last Friday night, Ann and I had a marvellous time with the Brethren of Lodge Galen and their wives and partners when we attended their Centenary Ball in the Glasgow Marriott. Next day I had another very enjoyable day with the Brethren of Celtic Lodge in Edinburgh. We celebrated their 200^th Anniversary in fine style. On Monday night, it was back down the A9 to attend the Installation meeting of the Trades House Lodge in Glasgow. During the evening Honorary Membership of the Lodge was bestowed upon Brothers Charles IR Wolrige Gordon, James Peddie and Alexander Moncrieff. All richly deserved.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

I am looking forward to being in the Province of Glasgow tonight (Friday) to celebrate with Lodge Galen at their Civic Reception and to being in the Province of Edinburgh on Saturday to celebrate with them, their 200^th Anniversary.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 11th November 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 11 November 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

The Provincial Grand Masters meeting last Saturday was a very productive one. Only two Provinces were not represented but they both sent written updates. I was heartened to hear the progress being made in the vast majority of the Provinces – all positive with new candidates in many of the Lodges but we also face challenges. Some Lodges are undoubtedly struggling, and a number of potential amalgamations were spoken of. While that is sad, especially where old Lodges are concerned, amalgamation means they will continue to exist. Many PGMs reported that Lodges were changing from two meetings a month to one, while others were considering changing the day of their meeting and likewise the time. A change of format in other Lodges was proving worthwhile. I am indebted to our Provincial and District Grand Masters and likewise our Grand Superintendents who are actively involved in facilitating necessary change. Given that we are still emerging from the Pandemic which has taken its toll in so many ways, we all need to accept the changing world we live in and embrace changes to the way we have operated in the past. By so doing, we will emerge stronger and more resilient.

One way that will undoubtedly help take us forward was the agreement of the PGMs that the setting up of a Young Masons network is essential and much can be gained from it. I think it is an exciting development which can easily be spread into our Districts. The young masons are our future. We therefore have to give them every support and encouragement to be creative and inventive in how and when we meet and how best to vary the content of the Lodge programme.

The basic tenets of our Craft and the lessons contained in our ritual will never change but how we deliver them affords us much scope to think outside the box and make our meetings more productive, interesting, exciting and enjoyable.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6925 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1375, submitted by 405 of its members.
These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 406 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Lanarkshire Middle Ward, Linlithgowshire, Midlothian and Perthshire East.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,735,140.

SCFS Overseas Report .

The Overseas membership still continues to increase. Special mention for support this week is given to Lodge Mount Lebanon, No. 1312 (District of Lebanon), Lodge Thistle, No. 1014 (District of Barbados),and Lodge Ntshe, No. 1746 (District of Botswana).
In addition, new members were approved from Lodges in amity with the GLoS such as the GL of Nevada, UGLE, GL of Canada in the Province of Ontario, GL of Nova Scotia, GL of Illinois and the GL of New Zealand.
We were delighted to publish a post from Brother Jim Kerr, DGM, of the District Grand Lodge of the Central South Africa, who shared news from Peter Geyer, DG Almoner, about the District’s support of Epworth Children’s Home residential care facility, including a donation of household goods and furniture to the value of £1750 made possible by Bro. Paul Farinha.

Day tickets for the Conference are now available and separately, tickets for the Installation and Festival of St Andrew are now available from Grand Lodge. This will be a unique week in Scottish Freemasonry – one that I commend to all of you. If you don’t have your tickets yet – don’t delay – they are selling fast.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

I am looking forward to being in the Province of Glasgow tonight to celebrate with Lodge Galen at their anniversary ball and to being in the Province of Edinburgh on Saturday to celebrate with them, their 200^th Anniversary.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 4th November 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 04 November 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

This Saturday sees the first face-to-face meeting with the Provincial Grand Masters since 2019. We will be meeting in Perth which is reasonably central for everyone. From the returns so far, it looks like we will almost have a full house which is great news. The PGM’s meetings and the DGM’s meetings provide a great platform to air issues, discuss problems, swap good ideas and just to socialise. Grand Secretary and I are both looking forward to a very productive meeting when, among other items, we will receive a Province-by-Province update on all that has been happening, is happening and is planned to happen.

I had a very productive meeting with Brother Will Rowan from Ayrshire on the subject of Young Masons Groups and the possibility of forming a network of such groups. There is much potential to be gained from such an activity world-wide. This will be a major topic for the zoom meeting of young masons which we hope to have before the end of the month.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6907 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1368, submitted by 403 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 406 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Glasgow and Linlithgowshire.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,730,708.

SCFS Overseas Report .

The Overseas membership has continued to increase and is now standing at 1854. Special mention for support this week is given to Lodge Ivanhoe, No. 879(Western Australia), Lodge Bi-Centennial, No. 1812(Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada), and Lodge Wellington, No. 1385, one of our two lodges in Belgium.

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges in amity with the GLoS such as from the GL of Texas, GL of Ireland, and the GL of We now have 1632 members from other Masonic constitutions who spread news worldwide of the excellent support featured in posts on SCFS.

We were also delighted to publish a post from Brother Jim Kerr, DGM, of the District Grand Lodge of Central South Africa, who shared news about the District’s further support of CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa) at a recent Breast Cancer Awareness bowls day.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

What a tremendous day the Grand Lodge Deputation who accompanied me to Lauder had. The welcome, the hospitality and the generosity were greatly appreciated by all. Situated in a beautiful part of the country Lodge St Luke No 132, has been promoting Freemasonry for over 250 years and I was greatly heartened by their enthusiasm and commitment to take the Lodge forward for the next 250 years. Thank you St Luke.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 28th October 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 28 October 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

Congratulations – you have made it a million! In fact, when all the monies come in you will have made it 1.1 million – a truly amazing result. Your creativity, ingenuity, effort, determination, and fortitude has made history. For the first time you, the members of Grand Lodge will hand over a cheque in excess of £1 million to a single organisation. The final cheque will be presented to Prostate Scotland at the Festival of St Andrew. Can I take this opportunity to record my personal thanks for all you have done. I know that our Immediate Past GM, Brother Charles Iain Robert Wolrige Gordon who instigated the original initiative, Brother Joe Morrow, Chairman of the Benevolence and Care Committee and Bro Marcus Humphrey, past chairman of the Committee would all wish me to say that collectively we are truly appreciative and grateful to you all. Thank you. I would also like to say a special thank you to Mrs Dawn Oliff and her staff who have carried out an immense amount of administrative work in respect of the project.

Last Saturday, I was delighted to have a “home game” only a mile down the road in the village of Avoch when we celebrated 100 years of Freemasonry in Lodge Rosehaugh. It was a real pleasure to welcome the Grand Lodge Deputation onto the Black Isle and my grateful thanks to the PGM, Brother Raymond MacKeddie, for his welcome both on Friday night and on Saturday afternoon. The Brethren of Lodge Rosehaugh pulled out the stops and celebrated in style.

This Saturday will be a bit different with a 400-mile round trip to the Border town of Lauder, where we will celebrate 250 years of Freemasonry in Lodge St Luke No 132.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6898 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1361, submitted by 403 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 406 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Edinburgh, Fife & Kinross, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire and Ross & Cromarty.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,699,188.

SCFS Overseas Report .

The Overseas membership has continued to increase. Special mention for support this week is given to Lodge Rosslyn, No. 596, District of Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, and to Lodge Britannia, No. 1033, one of our two lodges in Chile.

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges in amity with the GLoS such as from the GL of Florida, UGLE, and the GL of

We were also delighted to publish a post from Brother Craig Jessop, DDGM, of the District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Province of Cape of Good Hope, who shared news about Lodge St. Andrews, No. 608, Gonubie, RSA, demonstrating its proactive support of the local community by donating 5000 rand (£250) to the Eastern Province junior rugby team.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

My best wishes to all our Hindu Brethren who, this week past, celebrated Diwali – the Festival of Light

Last Tuesday, Grand Secretary and I visited the Poppy Garden in Princes Street Garden where we laid a wreath alongside all the Lodge Poppy Crosses. Yesterday, before the Grand Lodge Communication, I placed another wreath on our own memorial in Grand Lodge in remembrance of all Brethren who made the supreme sacrifice.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 21st October 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 21 October 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

As reported last week, I had problems with British Airways on the way out to Gibraltar. Just to keep things evenly balanced, it was the same story on the way back – two hours late leaving Gibraltar – missed connection at Heathrow – alternative flight to Edinburgh – train to Inverness. Arrived home on Tuesday afternoon instead of Monday night. However, the reduced period of time spent in Gibraltar was first class. It was a real pleasure to be back and to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Was delighted to see that Freddy was still behind the bar in the Masonic Club – he was behind the bar when I first visited Gibraltar in the mid-nineties, and he looks as fresh as ever. The Installation of Brother Paul Villalta and his Commission was well attended and went smoothly thanks to the organising skill of the District Grand Secretary, Brother Ivor Lopez and my acting Grand Director of Ceremonies, Bro Rob Lomax. He did a splendid job as did all Brethren who were standing in for the Grand Lodge Office-bearers. The Installation Banquet in the “Hall of Fame” was an excellent evening in the company of wives and partners.

On Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending St Andrew’s Church of Scotland where we were warmly welcomed by the Minister, Rev Ewen MacLean who hails from Lewis. I had a good craik with him and was delighted he knew several of my former colleagues. Sadly, the Church of Scotland are going to close the Church at the end of the year after a presence dating back to the 19^th century.

After Church, I attended, for a short while, the History and Heritage Committee lecture given by the DGM elect in the District of the Eastern Cape of Good Hope, Brother Jessop. Later in the day, we were taken for a trip round the rock on Brother Steven Segui’s boat. Brother Segui is the new Substitute DGM.

Despite British Airways attempts to cause havoc, we had a tremendous weekend and I convey my sincere thanks to the DGM, Brother Villalta, and all the Brethren, their wives, and partners for making us so welcome, for their generosity and friendship. It was truly appreciated.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6887 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1354, submitted by 401 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 405 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Edinburgh and Linlithgowshire.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,697,288.

SCFS Overseas Report .

The Overseas membership of the SCFS group has now reached 1846 brethren. Special mention for support this week is given to Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965, in the District of Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope.

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges under UGLE, GL of New Jersey, MWGL of the Philippines, Regular GL of Italy and the GL of Indianapolis. This brings the total of International Constitution Members (ICMs) to 1622.

We were delighted to publish posts about the following this week:

Brother Craig Jessop, DDGM, of the District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Province of Cape of Good Hope, shared news about an initiative by Brother Bernard Heritage, SDGM, which led to Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965, donating 500 cupcakes to the local Old Folks’ Home in Buffelsfontein.

Brother Scott Bartlett, IPDGM, District Grand Lodge of Newfoundland and Labrador, shared a post about an excellent donation of approximately £650 to the Trinity Conception Health Care Foundation by Lodge Heart’s Content, No. 1275.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 14th October 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 14 October 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

Last Saturday I had the privilege of heading a Grand Lodge Deputation to Lodge St James No 123 in Brechin to celebrate their 250^th Anniversary. What a tremendous day we had – all arrangements rolled out like clockwork. Around 75 Brethren gathered in the Lodge and afterward in the Mechanics Institute where we enjoyed a superb meal. My sincere thanks to the members of St James for their welcome, hospitality and generosity.

On Sunday afternoon at 14.00 we have the second of the new series of lectures organised by the History and Heritage Group. The “View from Over Here” comes this week from the District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Cape of Good Hope and will be presented by Brother Craig Jessop. Information on how to access the lecture can be found on the Grand Lodge Facebook page.

Left home yesterday morning at 04.00 hours to get to Inverness airport for the red eye flight to Heathrow en route to Gibraltar. Got through security, had my coffee, boarded the plane and sat there on the tarmac for the next two hours. Excuse was fog at Heathrow Airport albeit, Sue received a message from British Airways saying that the delay was due to air traffic control issues at Heathrow. However, after sitting on the tarmac for two hours, the Captain announced that the fog was lifting at Heathrow, but we couldn’t leave Inverness due to the air traffic controllers there having their official tea break. Couldn’t make it up. Missed the connection – hopefully I’ll get there today in time for the rehearsal!

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

The Group saw its membership rise to 6880 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1348, submitted by 401 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 404 Lodges, from within 56 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of Forfarshire and Renfrewshire West.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £2,693,866.

SCFS Overseas Report .

It is extremely encouraging that, approaching 30 months after its formation, the group is continuing to welcome new members from our lodges overseas.

This week, brethren joined from a wide spread of these lodges: Lodge Al-Arz, No. 1853(Lebanon), Lodge Benguela, No. 1616(Namibia), Lodge Ashlar, No. 1845(Mauritius), Lodge Notwani, No. 1633 (Botswana), Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (Western Australia, Goldfields), and Lodge St. Andrew, No. 1139 (Newfoundland and Labrador).

In addition, new members were approved from Lodges under UGLE (Eastern Archipelago) and the Grand Lodge of Tennessee.

The excellent examples of charity and support, as detailed in the many posts published, are being very widely read and appreciated by brethren from our lodges overseas and from other Masonic constitutions.

Such a post was received on Wednesday from Brother George Rogers, PDGM, District Grand Lodge of Western Australia, who shared the news that the Scottish Masonic Charitable Foundation, District Grand Lodge of Western Australia, has now been awarded Platinum Sponsor status by the Motor Neurone Disease Society of Western Australia in recognition of the Foundation’s remarkable donations of $20,000.00 (approximately £11,500) to the Charity.

Heartiest congratulations to all those who completed the zip slide on Sunday – a fantastic effort and great boost toward the target.

I was disappointed that I couldn’t join you on the day but fully intend to pop into Killiecrankie on my way north in the next week or so and join the illustrious band of zip sliders

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

Weekly Update 7th October 2022 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

: Robin McIntyre; 07 October 2022

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

William Ramsay McGhee, MStJ, D.L., Grand Master Mason

Brethren,

The past week has been a mixture of happiness and sadness. Last Saturday I travelled east to Peterculter where we all enjoyed the belated Centenary celebrations of Lodge Leuchar. It was a most enjoyable day both in the Lodge and at the Dinner which followed. My thanks to all the Brethren in Peterculter.

Yesterday was a sad day as we gathered in The Lodge of Dunblane No 9 for a Lodge of Sorrow in respect of Past Provincial Grand Master of Perthshire West, John Scott Brockie. Thereafter we joined with a large congregation in Dunblane Cathedral for the funeral service. John would be known to many of you as his commitment to Freemasonry saw him travel extensively throughout Scotland and beyond.

This weekend will be a busy one. Tomorrow, Saturday 8th, I will have the privilege of heading a Grand Lodge Deputation to Lodge St James No 123 in Brechin to celebrate, again belatedly, their 250th Anniversary. We’re all looking forward to the occasion.

On Sunday afternoon at 14.00 we have the first of the new series of lectures organised by the History and Heritage Group. The first lecture – Scottish Freemasonry in Mauritius – will be presented by Brother Gerard Jean-Regis Basile Fanchette and I commend it to you. Information on how to access the lecture can be found on the Grand Lodge Facebook page.

At 15.00 on Sunday afternoon, I will be hosting a zoom meeting of all Proxy District Grand Masters and I’m looking forward to our discussions.

SCFS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Scottish.Constitution.Freemasonry.Supports/

o The Group saw its membership rise to 6873 Brethren from not only the Scottish Constitution but from many of our Sister Constitutions throughout the world.

o This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1343, and we are delighted to congratulate and thank Bro. Jim Reeves, RWM of Lodge Robert Burns Initiated, No. 1781, as the 400th contributor to the group.

o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 403 Lodges, from within 57 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge.

o During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Provincial Grand Lodges of East Lothian, Edinburgh, Glasgow & Lanarkshire Middle Ward.

o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded is £2,651,766

SCFS Overseas Report .

• It was a pleasure to publish a post in which Brother Bob Duffey, PM, shared news of the financial support of Lodge Northcliffe, No. 1086, in the District of Newfound and Labrador, for the Relief Hurricane Disaster fund, in the wake of the recent hurricane which impacted the Atlantic provinces.

Our membership of brethren from Lodges located outside Scotland continues to grow. Reference this week must be made to Lodge Nigel, No. 847, in the district of Central South Africa, for adding to this total.

• There are now 1839 members in the SCFS group from our Lodges overseas.

• In addition, we have 1617 ICMs (International Constitution Members) - brethren belonging to Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. This week new members joined from the GL of Poland, GL of California, UGLE (Eastern Archipelago), with a notable number joining from the GL of Cuba

**We would encourage our Overseas Lodges and Districts to continue sharing news of their excellent support of others and look forward to publishing further posts from them.**

The Committee who are working on the Conference are certainly stepping up the pressure – only eight weeks to go to what is going to be a tremendous week of Masonic learning, discussion, interaction, socialising as well as cementing old friendships and making new ones. The programme is almost complete and will provide a very fitting run up to the Grand Lodge Installation and Festival of St Andrew on Thursday 24th November.

Day tickets for the Conference are now available and,separately, tickets for the Installation and Festival of St Andrew are now available from Grand Lodge. This will be a unique week in Scottish Freemasonry – one that I commend to all of you. If you don’t have your tickets yet – don’t delay – they are selling fast.

An additional item on the Monday agenda will be the Installation of Brother Christopher M Wong as District Grand Master of the Far East. This will take place in Grand Lodge on the Monday evening and a warm invitation is extended to Brethren to attend. This will bring Grand Lodge fully up to date with all Provincial and District Installations – my sincere thanks to Grand Secretary and Grand Lodge staff for managing to engineer three years into one year.

Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

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