Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire West Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire West

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Welcome to the 200th edition of the Weekly Update.The 200thedition will also be the final edition as I demit Office on the 30th of November when I will have the great honour of Installing our new Grand Master Mason, Brother Dr Joseph John Morrow, CVOCBEKStJKCDLFRSE, the current Lord Lyon King of Arms.

Through the medium of the Weekly Update, may I take this opportunity to thank you all, your Lodges, Provinces, Districts and Superintendencies for the support you have given me over the past five years. It has been a real privilege to serve as your Grand Master Mason – I only hope that my endeavour over the period has matched your expectations of me.

Can I also take the opportunity to thank Grand Secretary and his staff at 96 George Street for the tremendous support I have received from them all. It has been greatly appreciated.Likewise, my sincere thanks to Brothers Dougie Fergie and Jim Ellis for their weekly contributions in respect of SCFS. They are both doing a tremendous job and, on your behalf, as well as my own, I thank them sincerely.

I will not be disappearing from Grand Lodge totally. Constitutionally, I will assume the role of Chair of the new Governance and Strategy Board. I look forward to this new role in which I will hopefully be able to assist in taking Scottish Freemasonry forward in a very positive, upbeat, and meaningful way.

In closing, can I thank you all, at home and overseas, for the warm welcome, affection and friendship that you have so kindly shown to me over the past five years – the memories I have will be cherished and valued for the remainder of my life.

SCFS


The Group saw its membership rise to 7367 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 1884, submitted by 525 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 457 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
o Thanks are extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
o Leuchar, No. 1224 (Aberdeenshire West), supporting Culter School Parent Council.
o Widows Sons Scotland West Chapter, supporting Prostate Scotland.
o The Lodge of Fort William, No. 43 (Inverness-shire), supporting Lochaber Action on Disability.
o The Bruce, No. 593 (Forfarshire), supporting Brechin Flood Relief Fund.
o Widows Sons Scotland East Chapter, supporting Poppy Scotland.
o Buchan St. John No. 636 (Linlithgowshire), supporting Brechin Buccaneers.
o The Douglas Lodge, No. 409 (Linlithgowshire), supporting Beatson Cancer Charity and Autism in local schools.
o Lindores, No. 106 (Fife & Kinross), supporting local Thursday Club & Newburgh Xmas Lights.
o New Monkland Montrose, No. 88 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting My Name’s Doddie Foundation.
o Provincial Grand Lodge of Edinburgh, supporting Dean and Cauvin Young Peoples Trust and The Sick Childrens Hospital Charity.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,865,359.

 
SCFS Overseas Report
 
Brother Craig Jessop, District Grand Master of the Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope, shared news of Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965, facilitating an art competition which raised funds to enable donations towards benevolence, the purchasing of food etc. for the local Old Age Home and the treating of 10 residents to a Gala Dinner / Evening

. 

• Brother Thomas Rohde, Past Master of Lodge Fort Jameson, No. 1467, in the District of KwaZulu Natal, advised on the efforts of that Lodge and of Lodge Grantleigh, No. 1136, in organising and financing the 38th Annual Seniors Luncheon, attended and enjoyed by a significant number of guests. 

• This week we welcomed a number of new Brethren from Lodges overseas:  Lodge Fort Jameson, No. 1467 (KwaZulu Natal), andLodge De La Vega, No. 1477 (Jamaica). In addition, there was an excellent response from the District of Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope from which a number of Brethren joined from the following Lodges: Lodge Caledonia, No. 796, Lodge Koodoo, No. 1317, and Lodge Thistle, No. 833. 
 
• Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed such as Brethren from Lodges under UGLE (Eastern Cape), and the Grand Lodge of South Africa. 
 

Last Saturday I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Lochaber, where, along with the PGM, Brother David Crilley, I paid a visit to Lodge Mallaig No 1056. It was a great night catching up with the Mallaig Brethren some of whom I have known for over 40 years.

Please support the Annual Christmas Concert by the Glasgow Phoenix Choir in Freemasons’ Hall on Sunday 10th December at 2.30 pm.


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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 49

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last Saturday saw a large Deputation from the Grand Lodge head to the Province of Lanarkshire Middle Ward to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Lodge Woodhall St Johns No 305. What a splendid time we had. The administrative arrangements were all first class resulting in a very enjoyable afternoon and evening. My thanks to the Lodge and to the Province for their welcome, hospitality and friendship – all greatly appreciated.

On Wednesday night Grand Secretary and I spent a most enjoyable evening in the magnificent building that is Glasgow City Chambers. The occasion was a Civic Reception to celebrate the Centenary of Glasgow Trades House Lodge. Yet another hugely successful meeting – congratulations to all involved in the organisation and to the Lodge on attaining this important milestone in your history.

Tonight, Ann and I are looking forward to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross and Cromarty Dinner Dance in the Ben Wyvis Hotel in Strathpeffer. This is another marker to show that we are getting back to some state of normality. Congratulations to the PGM, Brother Raymond MacKeddie, and his team for organising the event.

Tomorrow night, I’m heading to Lochaber to visit Lodge Mallaig No 1056. Really looking forward to the visit as I attended the Lodge regularly while stationed there in the 80s.  

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7355 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 1872, submitted by 523 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 453 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks are extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week:
  • The Lodge of Portlethen, No. 1805 (Kincardinshire), supporting Brechin Flood Relief Fund.
  • Widows Sons Scotland, East Chapter, supporting Poppy Scotland.
  • Baillie Nicol Jarvie, No. 1036 (Perthshire West), supporting Poppy Scotland.
  • Buchanan, No. 1499 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting Poppy Scotland.
  • Tower, No. 1523 (Glasgow), supporting Drumchapel Food Bank.
  • Widows Sons Scotland, West Chapter, supporting Ibrox Primary School Bikebus Scheme.
  • Fothad’s, No. 1059 (Fife & Kinross), supporting Parkinsons Fife.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,84,634.
 
SCFS Overseas Report
 
  • Brother Craig Jessop, District Grand Master of the Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope, shared news of support to two different groups this week.
  • As part of a larger initiative involving various benevolent organizations, the District was requested to bake cupcakes and sell them in order to raise funds for children with cancer. This request was readily undertaken and indirectly resulted in a healthy donation being made. Particular mention must be made to Lodge Good Friendship, No. 1800, Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965, Lodge St. Andrew, No. 608, the District Grand Lodge and various Brethren throughout the District.
  • In addition, as part of the initiative, 300 cupcakes were donated to the Buffelsfontein Old Age Home, which were very much enjoyed by the residents. 
  • Membership focus this week was on encouraging Brethren to join from other constitutions, with whom the GLoS is in amity. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support which is being provided, as evidenced in the posts on the SCFS page. They are members of Lodges as far away as Australia and as close as England, such as the University of Birmingham Lodge, No. 5628 from Warwickshire, under UGLE, from which members joined this week. 

Past DGM, Brother Thomas C Smith and I spent a few useful days Malta where we visited Lodge St Andrew and met over three days with representatives from other Constitutions. While much work remains to be done, it was nevertheless a very productive and fruitful few days.

Please support the Annual Christmas Concert by the Glasgow Phoenix Choir in Freemasons’ Hall on Sunday 10th December at 2.30 pm.

 

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 60

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last weekend the Grand Lodge Deputation who headed from Oban over to the Island of Mull had a truly memorable visit. It started off on the Friday night with an impromptu ceilidh in the Mishnish Hotel which the Brethren enjoyed with all other patrons of the establishment.

The arrangements made for the rededication ceremony on the Saturday were first class and the ceremony itself, in the wake of the perfect arrangements, was carried out without any problems. The celebratory dinner was well worth going to Mull for alone. All speeches were short, sharp and to the point, much to the delight of the assembly.

On Saturday night after all the pomp and ceremony had ended, a busload of us headed to Dervaig where another ceilidh took place. All in all, a tremendous weekend.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7350 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 1865, submitted by 523 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 452 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
  • Whifflet St. John, No. 963 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting CHAS.
  • Scoon & Perth, No. 3 (Perthshire East), supporting Perth Autism Support.
  • Ben Ledi, No. 614 (Perthshire West), Supporting The Ripple Retreat.
  • Widows Sons Scotland, West Chapter, supporting Marcus Humphrey House.
  • Maryhill, No. 510 (Glasgow), supporting Homeless Veterans Project.
  • Averon, No. 866 (Ross & Cromarty), supporting a young girl with leukemia. 
  • Glammis, No. 99 (Forfarshire), supporting PGL Zipslide Event Fund.
  • Widows Sons Scotland, North Chapter, supporting Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance.
  • Widows Sons Scotland, East Chapter, supporting Poppy Scotland.
  • Fleur De Lys, No. 1722 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting PGL Christmas Box Appeal.
  • Kelso & Tweed, No. 58 (The Scottish Borders), supporting Get George Moving.
  • Lord Bruce, No. 1601, Linlithgowshire reigning Masters (Linlithgowshire), supporting The Beatlie Centre.
  • GLoS, PGL Forfarshire, SGRAC, supporting Brechin Flood Relief Fund.
The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,840,464.
 
SCFS Overseas Report
 
 

On 1 November, we celebrated SCFS being in existence for three and a half years, during which time many interesting posts have been published about the wonderful support given by our Overseas Brethren. There has also been a steady increase in members and activity on the page by them during this period. 

  • This week we welcomed a number of new members from Lodges overseas. This regular increase in Overseas Members demonstrates the feeling of inclusiveness which is often commented upon. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining fromLodge Fort Jameson, No. 1462 andLodge St. Andrew, No. 701 (both KwaZulu Natal), and Lodge St. John, No. 1072 (Bangkok, Middle East). The support of the new members who have joined is greatly appreciated and I’m sure that these new members will follow the very many Brethren who support the page by “Liking” and commenting positively on the published posts. 
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. This week, Brethren joined from Lodges under, for example, UGLE (KwaZulu Natal), and the United Grand Lodges of Germany. 

 


I am currently in Malta visiting Lodge St Andrew with Past DGM, Brother Thomas C Smith. We have a busy but interesting agenda liaising with other Constitutions to take Scottish Freemasonry forward on the Island in a positive and useful manner.

Looking forward to being in Bellshill on Saturday to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Lodge Woodhall St john No 305.

 

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 93

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

It is my pleasure to commence the weekly update by congratulating Bro Dr Joseph John Morrow on his appointment as our next Grand Master Mason. I will have the honour of Installing him at the Installation Meeting on 30th November. I am delighted that the opportunity has now arisen to allow Bro Morrow to complete his journey as our Grand Master Mason. I am sure that all readers will join with me in wishing him a very happy, successful and enjoyable term in Office.

Unfortunately, my trip to Dundee to join in the Centenary Celebrations of Lodge Roineach Mhor Downfield No 1308 last Saturday did not happen due to the effect of Storm Babet. Forfarshire and Angus suffered greatly as a result of the storm and our heartfelt sympathy goes to all who have lost loved ones and to those who have lost their homes. Grand Lodge has committed £10,000 to the recovery fund.

The Grand Lodge Communication took place yesterday. It was preceded by a meeting of the Governance and Strategy Board which is now beginning to take shape and the final members of the Board were all elected yesterday afternoon. It is therefore, all systems go. I’m looking forward to the December meeting when further progress will have been made regarding the Standing Committees and the rolling out of the Strategic Vision, which was also endorsed yesterday by Grand Lodge.

It was also announced yesterday that Brother Hugh Bryson will be stepping down as Proxy District Master of the Far East. Brother Bryson has been a very effective Proxy Master for over 20 years prior to which he served the District as their District Grand Master. He has been a tremendous example to us all and we wish him a very relaxed and enjoyable retirement.

I received a very pleasant surprise yesterday when I was made an Honorary Member of the Grand Lodge of Denmark through the good offices of Brother Christian Høy-Petersen, Grand Chancellor of the Grand Lodge of Denmark. My sincere thanks to the Grand Master, Brother Walter Schwartz.

SCFS


  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7341 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 1851, submitted by 521 of its members. 
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 451 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week:
  • The Lodge of Erskine, No. 1566 (Renfrewshire East), supporting Erskine Home Recreation Facility.
  • Lodge Almoners (Linlithgowshire), supporting Sir James McKay House.
  • PGL Edinburgh, supporting Dean & Cauvin Trust.
  • Strathardle, No. 1505 (Perthshire East) & Widows Scotland Sons North Chapter, supporting BLISS.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,821,309.
 
SCFS Overseas Report
 

A very interesting post was published thanks to Brother Sasi Dharan who advised that every first Saturday of the month, the members of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 1437, in the district of the Middle East, help distribute food to over 1000 low-income families in Singapore. This month, food packages were distributed to 1175 families. This regular and ongoing example of support by the Lodge to those in need within the local community cannot be praised highly enough. So many families rely on it and eagerly await the distribution day.

  • This week we welcomed a number of new members from Lodges overseas. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining fromLodge Nan Yang , No. 1828 (Malaysia, Middle East) and Lodge Mount Lebanon (Lebanon). The support of the new members who have joined is greatly appreciated and I’m sure that these new members will follow the very many Brethren who support the page by “Liking” and commenting positively on the published posts.
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the posts on SCFS to a worldwide audience. This week, Brethren joined from Lodges such as Jasper Tudor Lodge (Monmouthshire) under UGLE. 

                                                                                                                                                       

Later today I will be heading to Oban to get the ferry over to Craignure on the Island of Mull where we will be celebrating the Centenary of Lodge Tobermory St Mary’s No 1310. Looking forward to a great weekend of Freemasonry and Fellowship. Hopefully the weather will be kinder than it was last weekend, allowing Cal Mac ferries to operate.

 

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 103

Empty

DPGM Paul Docherty 2023I bring  Fraternal greetings to your Right Worshipful Master, Past Masters, Wardens and Brethren.

As you know, The Prostate Scotland Awareness Initiative kicked off if earnest at the Provincial Grand Royal Arch chapter of Renfrewshire, fully supported by the Provinces of Renfrewshire West and Renfrewshire East. . This was way back on Saturday 10th June 2023 where I was delighted to represent the Province and our own PGM at the formal kick off.

This is an extension of the Make it a Million campaign and this initiative is being fully supported by The Grand Lodge of Scotland, I have acted as the representative on the Steering group of our own PGM Bro John Williamson Black. 

Since then the inaugural  Grand Lodge kick off meeting in Lodge Prince of Wales, hosted by Grand Superintendent Kevin Pollock and the educational session was hosted by Grand Almoner Bro. Tom Davidson. Brother Davidson outlined the aim of the overall programme. Comprehensive presentations were then given by Adam Gains and Mae Bell from Prostate Scotland, after which they group engaged in a Q&A session. A very informative and successful evening was enjoyed by all.

The Champions or Ambassadors for the joint Prostate awareness initiative are spread over the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire West ,Provincial Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Renfrewshire, .and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East. The Intendancy of Strathclyde and the District Grand Priory of Strathclyde also have given full support. They have undergone specialist training given by Prostate Scotland and are now ready and willing to discharge their role and duties.

This is a completely confidential advice service, and no Brother or Companion should ever feel obliged to reveal their identity should they not want to.

This is not a medical help service, however advice on who to contact for further assistance can be given, a friendly ear and a trained individual to offer advice and support you and signpost the way towards further information and medical help if required.

Our Champions or Ambassadors do not represent any single Province or order, they form a cadre providing their services across the three provinces. This initiate is underpinned by the principle of one masonic family with no boundaries.

Our trained team of Champions are ready for your call.

 Gerry - 07932239440

 Jim - 07505273293

 Danny - 07432832529

 Steve - 07507228312

 Billy – 07833054567

This initiative is part of The Grand Lodge of Scotland, Prostate legacy and Grand Lodge of Scotland are overseeing and are fully engaged with this initiative.

Brethren, We hope that much more information and future initiatives will be communicated to you all, but I urge you to give this particular communication your earnest consideration. 

Every 45 minutes a man dies of Prostate disease in the UK. We have the opportunity to fight Prostate disease head on and refuse to live in ignorance.

Together we can all make a difference

Your Faithfully and Fraternally

Paul Docherty 

Depute Provincial Grand Master 

Hits: 130

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Some of you may well be aware by now that the decision has been taken to sell our care home in Bridge of Weir, Marcus Humphrey House, as a going concern. This decision has not been taken lightly but the operation of the Home has changed significantly over the years. It is genuinely felt that the provision of the service in the future would be best delivered by specialists in the field. Further detail will be sent to all Lodges through the Provinces.

I mentioned last week that I would be heading south to Perth last Saturday to witness the Young Masons of Perthshire East (“The Stones of Destiny”) work an Entered Apprentice Degree. The magnificent Lodge Room of Lodge Scoon and Perth No 3 was almost full to capacity with Young Masons Groups from Ayrshire, The Scottish Borders and beyond, all present to support their contemporaries in Perthshire East. The degree was worked in exemplary fashion – a credit to the Brethren in the team and to the PGM, Brother Ian Cameron, whose unstinting support of the group has been first class. It was a real joy to be in the Lodge to witness such a well worked degree. But, the working of the degree, I believe, was only part of the wider story.  The PGM remarked that – “the cross-Lodge interaction and effort has united these young Masons into a very strong group” – Brethren, I have no doubt that the interaction between all the Lodges involved will continue with those young Masons. There will be social interaction, there will be charity events to name but a few off-shoots. This was the third Young Masons group I have witnessed working a degree and collectively their effort and endeavour has undoubtedly justified the decision to form Young Masons groups in all our Provinces and Districts. There is still much work to be done to establish Young Masons Groups in all areas. With PGMs and DGMs grasping the nettle to establish and support the groups there is little doubt that the future of Scottish Freemasonry is in safe hands.

SCFS


  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7339 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 1846, submitted by 518 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 450 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
  • The Bruce, No. 593 (Forfarshire), supporting Friockheim Ploughing Association.
  • Cumbernauld St. Andrew’s, No. 199 (Dunbartonshire), supporting local Church.
  • Barns o’ Clyde (Dunbartonshire), supporting Chest Heart & Stroke Association Scotland.
  • Polkemmet, No. 927 (Linlithgowshire), supporting Whitburn Girls Brigade.
  • Dalhousie, No. 679 (Forfarshire), supporting Carnoustie Bowling Club.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,819,409.
 
SCFS Overseas Report
 
 
  • This week we welcomed a number of new members from Lodges overseas. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining fromLodge Sarawak, No. 1452 (Malaysia, Middle East) and Lodge Golden Thistle, No. 840 (Western Australia, Goldfields District). The support of the new members is greatly appreciated and I’m sure that they will follow the very many Brethren who support the page by “Liking” and commenting positively on the published posts. 
  • Congratulations are extended to Brother Luke Peter Thompsonfrom Lodge Golden Thistle, No. 840, newly installed Inner Guard, who our 2000th memberfrom our Overseas Lodges. 
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. This week, Brethren joined from Lodges under the GL of Denmark, GL of Western Australia, and UGLE(North Wales). 

Tomorrow, I will be heading to Dundee (Storm Babet permitting) to join in the Centenary Celebrations of Lodge Roineach Mhor Downfield No 1308. I will be heading a good-sized Deputation but sadly one name on the Deputation List will no longer be with us. Brother Leslie M Livingstone, Past Assistant Grand Treasurer, laid down his Working Tools just over a week ago. I was privileged to attend his funeral, with many other Masons, on Wednesday in Dundee Crematorium. The very fitting service was conducted by Past GM, Brother Rev Dr Joseph J Morrow.

On Wednesday evening I had the pleasure and honour to attend the annual Supreme Council Dinner held in the Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh. A truly splendid evening during which I caught up with many Brethren from home and overseas.

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 120

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last weekend was particularly busy but most enjoyable. On Friday, I was in Grand Lodge to sign the Covenant, along with Colonel Anthony Phillips, pledging the support of Grand Lodge to the Armed Forces. It was an excellent afternoon with two first class presentations from Duncan Evans, of the Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadet Association and from Kenneth Grieve, Chairman of the Lowland Regional Employer Engagement Group of the Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadet Association. We also enjoyed two piping recitals led by Grand Piper, Pipe Major Robert Burns accompanied by two colleagues from the Royal Scots Association Pipe Band, Victoria MacLean and Billy Rutherford.

The event was tinged with sadness when we learned that Bro Bob Hawkins, the Commander of HMS Caledonia at Rosyth, who was with us at the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant passed away over the weekend. Bob was one of our Prostate Champions and was offering to host the next training session at HMS Caledonia.

On Saturday, I travelled east to Ellon where I had the pleasure of heading a Deputation which included two Past Grand Masters, Bro Marcus Humphrey of Dinnet and Bro Charles Iain Robert Wolrige Gordon of Esslemont, to rededicate the building of Lodge Ythan No 892. It was a splendid day with the Brethren of Aberdeenshire East. The welcome, hospitality and generosity of the Lodge Ythan Brethren was first-class and greatly appreciated.

Have been in touch this week with Bro Anthony Bostwick, DGM of Bahamas. They too are having a busy time – once again organising a “Blood Drive” when they encourage everyone to attend the Masonic Temple to donate blood. They are heading this weekend to Lodge Eleutheran Adventurers No 1816 for the annual Installation. It certainly appears to be an Installation with a difference as during the weekend the Brethren take to sea in a variety of boats for a ‘Fishing Extravaganza’. Looks like a fun-filled weekend. Something to consider in sunny Scotland?

SCFS

  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7336 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 1841, submitted by 517 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 449 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
  • New Monkland Montrose, No. 88 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting Simpsons Memory Box Appeal.
  • Ben Ledi, No. 614 (Perthshire West), Press coverage for supporting Ripple Retreat.
  • New Monkland Montrose, No. 88 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting Mavisbank School.
  • Stivenstone Thistle & Rose, No. 169 (Ayrshire), supporting Marion’s Still Smiling.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,817,058.
 
SCFS Overseas Report

A very interesting post from Brother George Rogers, Past DGM, Western Australia, was published this week. It shared news that, once again, the Scottish Masonic Charitable Foundation of Western Australia has been extremely active within the District, providing wonderful support to community events … on this occasion, to the City of Armadale Highland Games.  

The Foundation has been running the bar at the Highland Games for the past 19 years, raising funds for the Foundation and District. Thanks must go to Brother Alan Miller who has managed the Tavern all those years, alongside the staff coming from Lodges within the District. The Tavern is a service which is greatly appreciated by all attendees of the Games. This year, over £3,000 was raised, which has been ringfenced for charitable donations at a later date.

  • This week we welcomed a number of new members from Lodges overseas. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining fromLodge Fort Nassau, No. 1819 (Bahamas), Lodge Felicity, No. 1681 (Trinidad & Tobago and Grenada), Lodge St. Andrew, No. 1140 (Panama), Lodge Mico, No. 1583 (Jamaica), and Lodge Oriwu, No. 1691 (Nigeria). The support of the new members who have joined is greatly appreciated.
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. This week, the furthest afield Brother joined from Rising Sun Lodge, No. 1401, in Japan, under UGLE.

Tomorrow, I will be heading south down the A9 to Perth to witness a Degree worked by the Perthshire East Young Masons. Very much looking forward to it. 

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 139

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Grand Secretary and I had just arrived in Panama last week in sufficient time for me to compile last week’s update. It was a memorable week in Panama for many reasons. 

First, our new Grand Superintendent, Bro Enrique Sanchez, was a senior engineer on the Panama Canal for 38 years and is now on the Board of Directors. He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the canal much of which he imparted to the Substitute Grand Master, Grand Secretary, and I when he took us into the Control Room at the Lock Gates. It was a fascinating trip during which we witnessed four ships being expertly manoeuvred through the locks.

The following day we learned much more about the history of Panama when we visited two museums during which we were briefed on the failed Darien Scheme back in 1700 when many Scots lost their lives. That evening we met with representatives from the Grand Lodge of Panama in what was a very positive meeting.

Saturday was the main event. I opened Grand Lodge and thereafter proceeded to Consecrate the new Superintendency and the new Lodge Building, assisted by our Substitute Grand Master, Bro Alexander Moncrieff, and Grand Secretary. We were collectively assisted by Past Masters Anibal George, Carlos Almengor and John Mercier. After the Consecration ceremony was complete, we broke for refreshment before assembling once again to install Bro Enrique Sanchez as the first Grand Superintendent. In the evening we were joined by the ladies for a superb Gala Dinner.

On Sunday morning a large Deputation from the Superintendency gathered in the Cathedral of St Luke for the morning service, which was conducted by the Bishop, His Grace, Julio E Murray, who delivered a very powerful and thought-provoking sermon based on Matthew 21 verses 23 – 32.

After Church we drove to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort where we enjoyed an excellent lunch. The lunch concluded the formal part of the visit. We all returned home on Monday.

A full report will appear in the 2024 Yearbook.

SCFS

  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7329 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 1836, submitted by 516 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 448 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • Thanks is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
  • PGL Glasgow, supporting various organisations throughout Glasgow.
  • Tower, No. 1523 (Glasgow), supporting Drumchapel Foodbank.
  • Prestwick, No. 1060 (Ayrshire), supporting Ayrshire Cancer Support & Ayrshire Foodbank.
  • PGL Edinburgh, supporting PGL Edinburgh Charity Partners & MND Scotland.
  • Airdrie St. John, No. 166 (Lanarkshire Middle Ward), supporting Coatdyke Congregational Church.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,810,898.
 
SCFS Overseas Report

This week we welcomed several new members from Lodges overseas. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining from Lodge Elgin, No. 1562 (Jamaica) and Lodge Ethiope, No. 1780 (Nigeria). The support of the new members who have joined is greatly appreciated.

  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodges operating under the GL of the Czech Republic, GL of Illinois, UGLE(Eastern Archipelago), and the United Grand Lodges of Germany.


  • Over the past number of months, we have published extremely interesting posts from our Lodges abroad and these have been commented upon very favourably. We are grateful to those Lodges and would encourage others to send in news about their Masonic support activities. 

Today, I am in Edinburgh to formally sign the Covenant pledging our support to the military by supporting them in many different and diverse ways. I am looking forward to the ceremony.

On Saturday, I will be heading a Deputation to Lodge Ythan No 892, Mother Lodge of Past Grand Master, Brother Charles Iain Robert Wolridge Gordon of Esslemont to Rededicate the Lodge building on the occasion of its Centenary. 

 

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 176

Empty

 

WEBSITE LOGO BLACK 300x73

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

The Installation of Brother John Douglas Stewart, our new Provincial Grand Master in Argyll and the Isles proved to be a most enjoyable event. The Argyllshire Gathering Hall was packed to capacity with every Lodge in the Province well represented. From the outset, things took off with a quartet of pipers led by Pipe Major Stuart LiddellMBE, Pipe Major of the Grade 1 World Champions – Inverary Pipe Band –leading us into the Lodge.

The dinner after the Installation was equally enjoyable.One of the many highlights of the day was being presented with a new pipe tune composed by Pipe Major Liddell. He had been working hard as the PGM, Brother Stewart, also received a new Pipe tune.

The entire day was most enjoyable, and I thank the organisers for doing a really first-class job. I am now looking forward to a return to the Province in a few weeks’ time when Grand Lodge heads to Tobermory to carry out the Centenary rededication ceremony.

SCFS

 
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7323 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 1830, submitted by 514 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 448 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
o Thanks are extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week.
o PGL Lanarkshire Middle Ward, supporting Mwanga Village in Malawi.
o PGL Edinburgh, supporting Dean & Cauvin Trust.
o Melrose St. John, No. 1bis (The Scottish Borders), supporting Dementia Café in Hawick.
o St. Conval, No. 1359 (Renfrewshire East), supporting East Renfrewshire Foodbank.
o Montgomerie Kilwinning, No. 624 (Ayrshire), supporting Largs RNLI.
o Caledonian, No. 392 (Edinburgh), supporting Who Dares Cares.
o Fort William, No. 43 (Inverness-shire), supporting Care Lochaber.
o Friendship Waverley, No. 597 (Edinburgh), supporting Dean & Cauvin Trust.
o Greenock Kilwinning, No. 12 (Renfrewshire West), supporting Children in Poverty Inverclyde, Ardgowan Hospice & Kyla McKinlay.
o Widows Sons West Chapter, supporting Diabetes UK.
o St. John Crofthead, No. 374 (Linlithgowshire), supporting Eastfield Development Centre.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,804,573.
 
SCFS Overseas Report


The following interesting news from Malawi was shared by Brother Tony Osman who advised the group of a very sizeable donation which was made possible by The Freemasons of Malawi, the Freemasons of Lanarkshire Middle Ward, and the Grand Lodge of Scotland. This allowed for the installation of a brand-new water borehole for the Village nursery for Cyclone Freddy Victims, in Mwanga Village, Chiradzulo, Blantyre, Malawi. The Freemasons of Malawi will be providing substantial support for the nursery as the immediate charity for the near future.

• This week we welcomed new members from Lodges overseas. Particular mention must be made to Brethren joining from Lodge Lodge Fort Nassau, No. 1819(Bahamas)and Lodge Jwaneng, No. 1790 (Botswana). 
• Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. It was particularly pleasing to welcome our first member from a Lodge under the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ontario and Jurisdiction.
http://pglrw.org/bd2f0637-d2f4-4b0e-b35c-c222f15b006d" alt="" />
 

I have now arrived in Panama for the Consecration of the new Superintendency and the Installation of the new Grand Superintendent. Full report will be included in next week’s edition

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
Hits: 178
  1. Weekly Update 22nd September 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  2. Weekly Update 15th September 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  3. Weekly Update 8th September 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  4. Weekly Update 1st September 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  5. Weekly Update 25th August 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  6. Weekly Update 18th August 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  7. Weekly Update 11th August 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee
  8. Weekly Update 4th August 2023 GMM Bro William Ramsay McGhee

Page 1 of 24