GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

This week has proven to be a bit busier than the past two weeks. It got off to a great start in Kilwinning last Saturday with the Lodge full to capacity to witness Brother Tom Wood being reinstalled as Provincial Grand Master of Kilwinning. It was pleasing to note that he was supported by ten reigning Provincial Grand Masters. My sincere thanks to the Province for their welcome, hospitality and generosity – all greatly appreciated.

Yesterday I attended a meeting of the Grand Lodge Administration Committee followed by Zoom calls to our Districts in Sierra Leone and in Barbados.

This evening, I will be attending the Masters Dinner in the Province of Midlothian and on Saturday the Installation meeting of Lodge St Andrew in Pitlochry.

SCFS

 
 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7248 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 1765, submitted by 501 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 441 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Ayrshire, Caithness, Inverness-shire, Ross & Cromarty, and Sutherland.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,626,127.
 
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 
 

It is always interesting to read about the support for others which is being extended by our Overseas Lodges and Districts and thanks is given to those who have shared their news. 

This week an extremely interesting post was published. Brother Tebuho MulalaLodge Lusaka, No. 1368, in the District of Zambia, shared information related to the Lodge, in partnership with the Tebuho Mulala Foundation, adopting the Show Grounds Community School in Mazabuka, Zambia, as a recipient of its support.

The Lodge is now involved in feeding programmes and providing educational materials to the orphans who attend the school. 

This latest donation, to the value of £250, and the overall support given, is extremely well appreciated by all at the school. Further donations of footwear are now planned. 

  • The new members who have been welcomed from our Lodges overseasduring the past number of weeks has resulted in our Overseas membership now reaching 1968. We look forward to welcoming even more this week.
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of Massachusettsand the GL of Ireland

Further to my report last week concerning Brother Bomi Mehta, I’m afraid that he passed to the Grand Lodge above on 23rd July. Our sincere condolences are extended to his daughter and family.

More sad news was received yesterday. Past Depute Grand Master, Brother Archibald McAllister McGown passed away in hospital on Wednesday. Brother McGown was a very active and influential Freemason whose passing will be a sad loss to Scottish Freemasonry. He served Grand Lodge well, especially as Chairman of the then Petitions, Complaints and Appeals Committee and thereafter as Chairman of the Disciplinary Review Committee. Our sincere condolences to his wife Jan and the entire family.

Next Thursday, 3rd August, I will not be in Grand Lodge because I’ll be attending the Black Isle Show – one of the biggest shows in Scotland other than the Royal Highland at Ingliston. Thereafter, normal Thursday operations will resume.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Another quietish week Masonically, but lots going on in other ways. We were delighted to welcome Brother Kevin Taggart to the Black Isle on Wednesday with a van full of foodstuffs for distribution to food banks and sharing sheds throughout the Black Isle and Inverness. I am well aware that many Provinces benefit from the initiative – what a great way to raise the profile of the Craft and, more importantly, help those who are struggling.

Next week Grand Lodge will be totally transformed for the duration of the Edinburgh Festival. The Grand Hall will be unrecognisable as it converts into a theatre and likewise the lesser hall and the Grand Committee Room. It is well worth coming to see one of the shows just to experience the change in the premises.

SCFS

 

The Group saw its membership rise to 7245 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 1758, submitted by 499 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 441 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Dunbartonshire, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire, Stirlingshire and The Scottish Borders.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,618,533.

 
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 

I’m delighted to highlight a post from Brother George Buchan, Depute District Grand MasterWestern Australia. He sent news of a wonderful joint donation of over £1500 by Lodge Menzies Doric, No.  890, and The Scottish Masonic Charitable Foundation of Western Australia to assist in the ongoing operating costs of The Rockingham Men's Shed. This wonderful organisation has become an incredibly powerful tool in addressing men's health and wellbeing by providing a safe environment for socialising with like-minded men. 

  • New members were welcomed from our Lodges overseas: Lodge Mount Lebanon, No. 1312 (Lebanon), The Lorne Lodge, No. 654(Western Province of the Cape of Good Hope), and Lodge United Brothers 251 (Trinidad and Tobago & Grenada). Particular mention must be made to Lodge Union of Athole, No. 591 (Central South Africa) from which a significant number of Brethren joined the group.

 

  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from lodges under the GL of New York, GL of New Zealand, and the GL of the Philippines.

I am looking forward to being in Kilwinning this Saturday to reinstall Tom Wood as PGM of Kilwinning. There will be a sizeable Deputation from Grand Lodge which is good – and I expect that there will be many Brethren from all the airts and pairts. It promises to be a great day.

Many Brethren throughout the world know our past DGM of India, Brother Bomi Mehta. I am sad to report that he is seriously ill in the Intensive Care unit of Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. He is a legend in Scottish Freemasonry in India – our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

Could I take the opportunity to stress the point I made last week? Please spread the word that Prostate Scotland has launched its new “Prostate Scotland App”. The App is available for both Apple and Android mobile phones.

The Prostate Scotland App” is free from Apple store or Google Play and contains excellent information and help for men and their families who are going through their journey with Prostate Cancer.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

After all the activity of the past two weeks, things have been much quieter this week.

On Tuesday, Grand Secretary travelled north to address the Brethren of Lodge Allan Wilson 851. His presentation was well received by the 50 or so Brethren in the Lodge. At the conclusion of the meeting, 40 Brethren sat down for lunch.

Yesterday was a busy day in Grand Lodge. It started with a meeting with the Chair of the Discipline Committee after which I had a visit from Brother Giannis Benetatos, Deputy Grand Master of the National Grand Lodge of Greece.

At noon Grand Secretary and I had a zoom meeting with the Pro Grand Master of UGLE regarding a District issue.  The remainder of the afternoon was spent dealing with administrative matters before an appointment to ascertain what inoculations I need before heading to Sierra Leone, the Gambia and Nigeria.

Things are moving with Prostate Scotland – progress is being made with the Pros Packs – they are in the final stages of being made available.

However, please spread the word that Prostate Scotland has launched its new “Prostate Scotland App”. The App is available for both Apple and Android mobile phones.

The Prostate Scotland App is free from Apple store or Google play and contains excellent information and help for men and their families who are going through their journey with Prostate Cancer.

Get download details here Prostate Scotland Cancer Navigator App launches! - Prostate Scotland

Grand Almoner will also be circulating more information to our Prostate Champions with regard to forthcoming regional training events.

SCFS


The Group saw its membership rise to 7237 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 1752, submitted by 498 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 441 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Dumfriesshire, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire, Renfrewshire East and Ross & Cromarty.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,484,029.

 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 
 

Two extremely interesting posts were published this week. 

  • Brother Theeranet Ruanghnayshared news of a donation of money and basic necessity items for daily living for inmates, to the value of over £1550, by Bro. Phisit Charoenphan, Master, and the Brethren of Lodge Ratanakosin, No. 1833, to the Department of Corrections, Thailand.
  • Brother George Rogers, Past District Grand Master, Western Australia, as Chairman of the Scottish Masonic Charitable Foundation of Western Australia, shared news of the continuing, wonderful support of Surf Life Saving in WA by the Foundation as he presented two awards, which are sponsored by the Foundation, at the ‘Awards of Excellence for Surf Life Saving’ ceremony. 

  

  • New members were welcomed from our Lodges overseas from the following Districts:Trinidad and Tobago & Grenada, Lebanon, Far East, Western Province of the Cape of Good Hope, Jordan. Particular mention must be made to Lodge Al Arz, No. 1853, Lebanon, from which a significant number of Brethren joined the group.
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren under the Regular GL of Italy, GL of Massachusetts, GL of Irelandand UGLE
 
  
Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last weekend I had the honour of representing Grand Lodge at the 30th Anniversary celebrations of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy held in the splendid surrounds of the Rome Cavalieri hotel. 

On Friday night I attended the welcome dinner for Heads of Deputations and the following morning I attended the Regular Communication during which I was taken by surprise by being given Honorary Membership of the Grand Lodge along with four others. The main aspect of the meeting was to accept a paper written by the Grand Master, Brother Fabio Venzi, entitled “Freemasonry and Modernity”. I have a copy of the paper translated into English and will make it available to Brethren through the Grand Lodge website. The Regular Communication was followed by lunch and in the evening, we enjoyed a gala dinner. 

Delighted to say that both me and my luggage arrived together at Inverness Airport on Sunday night.

On Wednesday, I had the honour and privilege of representing Scottish Freemasons at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh to witness the Presentation of the Honours of Scotland to His Majesty, the King. It was an historic and significant occasion for Scotland and how good it was to be part of it. Great credit must go to Brother Dr Joseph Morrow, Lord Lyon King of Arms, as he was instrumental in organising the entire event. A fuller report on the event and those involved along with some pictures will appear on the Grand Lodge social media page.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7216 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 1745, submitted by 495 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 440 Lodges, from within 59 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 Province of Lanarkshire Middle Ward.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,475,169.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 

An extremely interesting post was published this week … a video of a broadcast on ‘Our News’ from the Bahamas, featuring the recent second Annual Scottish Masonic Food Festival, organised and presented for the community by the District Grand Lodge of the Bahamas. This Festival added greatly to the activities of the community, giving many a wonderful opportunity to socialise and strengthen friendships. It was attended by hundreds of patrons, and, as the reporter commented, “It started at 12 noon and lasted well into the night.” Brother Anthony Bostwick, District Grand Master, added that the Festival had been “a complete success for family, community and brotherly love.”

  • New members were welcomed from our Lodges overseas: Lodge Polynesia, No. 562 (Fiji), and Lodge Kadisha, No. 1002 (Lebanon).
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren under the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Paraguay

Looking forward to attending Lodge Allan Wilson No 851 this coming Tuesday where the guest speaker will be Brother Willie Semple, Grand Secretary. Anyone interested in coming along, the Lodge meets at 11.00 for coffee and tyles at 11.30. Lunch is served at 13.00 hours.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last Saturday was spent in the Province of Aberdeenshire East where we witnessed a superb MM Degree worked by the Young Masons in the Province. The Province is undoubtedly in good hands for the future given the enthusiasm, commitment and passion displayed by the Young Masons team. Not only were they word perfect, but the ceremonial was carried out with feeling. My thanks to the Province for their welcome, hospitality and initiative – it was good to be there.

On the way home, I called into Inverness Airport where, on the arrival of the last flight, my case appeared after four days on the loose. 

I should have been in Lodge Caledonian in Annan on Wednesday night but many of the readers will already know that shortly after arriving in Annan, we received the devastating news that Brother Alex Craib’s wife had passed away. The priority was to get Alex back home which we duly did but I’m sure all our readers will wish to join me in extending our heartfelt condolences to Alex and his family at this sad time.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7208 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 1743, submitted by 495 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 440 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Aberdeenshire West, Fife & Kinross, Forfarshire, Linlithgowshire and Stirlingshire.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,474,569.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 

 

The following extremely interesting post was published this week.

  • Brother Richard Luke Gordon, PM, shared news of Lodge St. John, No. 623, Jamaica, which grants two scholarships annually to students of the University of Technology, Faculty of Engineering, each valued at Jamaican $200,000. This is in addition to the Alva Anderson scholarship, valued at Jamaican $100,000, presented to a student of Jamaica College. These annual donations of over £2500 are always warmly received by the recipients. The money for the donations is raised through various fundraising events. 

New members were welcomed from our Lodges overseas: Lodge Harmony, No. 1830, and Lodge Trinity, No. 1846, both in the District of LebanonBrethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren under the GL of Ohio, and the GL of Western Australia.

This weekend I will be representing Grand Lodge at the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy at their Communication in Rome. 

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

What an incredible weekend we had in Lebanon. On Friday morning, we boarded a coach and visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in the town of Harissa. The Shrine stands next to the Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon. The Basilica was designed in the late 1960s by renowned Lebanese architect Pierre El Khoury, and it really is an outstanding piece of architecture.

Next stop was the ancient city of Byblos, located on the coast about 20 miles north of Beirut and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. At Byblos, also known as Jbail, we visited the Fossil Quarries exhibition, the Crusaders Church, the Old Souk (market) and the Citadel. We spent a fascinating time there learning much about the religious and masonic significance of the city.

On Saturday the Brethren, Ladies and guests embarked on another coach tour – this time around Beirut including a visit to the Beirut National Museum. Meanwhile, Grand Secretary and I remained at the hotel where we had a morning meeting and lunch with senior members of the District before heading to the magnificent function room in the hotel for a rehearsal.

The installation Ceremony was attended by over 250 Brethren – all Scottish Lodges in Lebanon were well represented along with deputations from all parts of the globe. At the conclusion of the Installation, we were joined by the Ladies for the Gala Harmony Dinner – a splendid affair greatly enjoyed by all.

On Sunday we headed south to the city of Tyre where we visited the Hiram Tomb. From research carried out with various Universities, the evidence would suggest that this was not the tomb of King Hiram but the tomb of Hiram Abiff. It was a fascinating visit, and we spent much time at the tomb before heading to Quana of Galilee which is steeped in biblical history. This is where Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine and it was humbling to walk where Jesus walked and take in the views of the area which have changed little over the past 2000 years. 

Sunday night was totally different. We were invited to a “Widows Sons” branding ceremony and barbeque. It was most interesting in many respects, and we were greatly privileged to witness it. At the conclusion, we joined the other guests for an excellent barbeque followed by a few Toasts – a truly superb evening with the “Widows Sons” Lebanese Chapter.

Brother Roland Prince very kindly took us on a personal tour of the Beirut blast site where we witnessed much of the devastation from the 2020 explosion which caused over 200 deaths. We were greatly impressed by the progress made in restoring property and getting back to some form of normality. Monday night was spent in the company of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Washington DC when we attended his annual visit to his three Lebanese based Lodges.

The District is in good form – going from strength to strength – and Grand Secretary and I were both well impressed with the resilience, enthusiasm and commitment of our Lebanese Brethren.

SCFS

  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7200 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 1736, submitted by 493 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 439 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Edinburgh, Forfarshire, Glasgow, Ross & Cromarty, The Scottish Borders, and Sutherland.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,470,169.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 

The following extremely interesting posts were published this week and thanks is extended to the Brethren who provided the information. 

  • Brother Richard Luke GordonPM, shared news of Lodge St. John, No. 623, Jamaica, hosting its annual treat with the children of the Boys Town Infant School in Kingston, Jamaica … featuring Brother Leighton McKnight, Master, sharing buns and cheese with the children. 
  • Brother George Rogers, PDGM, Western Australia, forwarded a post by Brother George Buchan, PM, in which details of Lodge Menzies Doric, No. 890, and family members, recently set up a Team with Lifeblood Australia, where donations of blood or plasma could be made as a team, rather than as individuals. For a few hours on Sunday 18th June, the Lodge Menzies Doric family took over the Rockingham Blood donation centre, and gifted not just their time, but also the possibility of saving lives.
  • Brother Pédro TurnquestSWLodge San Andreas, No. 1835, Bahamas, provided information of an excellent example of the strong support of the local community given by Lodge San Andreas. At the Graduation Ceremony of the Huntley Christie High School, two students were recipients of substantial financial recognition for excellence as part of the Lodge’s Alphonso Smith Scholarship Award Program.

New members were welcomed from our Lodges overseas: Lodge Menzies Doric, No. 890, Western Australia, Lodge Tranquillity, No. 1446, Sierra Leone and the Gambiaand Lodge Hesperus, No. 1738, Trinidad & Tobago and Grenada. Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren under the GL of Florida, the GL of Michigan, and the GL of New York

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

I am writing this en route to Beirut where, on Saturday afternoon, assisted by Substitute GM, Brother Alexander Moncrieff and Grand Secretary, Brother Willie Semple, I will install the new District Grand Master of Lebanon, Brother Maurice Elias Feghali. The District Grand Lodge has flourished under the leadership of Brother Rabih Jarmakani and I have no doubt it will continue to go from strength to strength under the stewardship of Brother Feghali.

Last Saturday night, Ann and I enjoyed a tremendous evening in the company of the Brethren of Lanarkshire Middle Ward and their wives. The occasion was the Provincial Ball held in Bellshill Hilton, situated in Strathclyde Park. It was a privilege to enjoy good company, good food and good entertainment in what was a memorable evening. Sincere thanks to PGM Andrew Millar and his Office-bearers for a most enjoyable time.

The following morning it was an early start to drive up the A9 for the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross & Cromarty Lodge of Sorrow. The ceremony was well attended including relatives of some of those who have passed away in the past year. The Service was conducted by Brother, Rev Iain Ramsden, Past Senior Grand Chaplain.

On Tuesday morning I had the honour to install Brother David MacMaster into the Chair of Lodge Allan Wilson No 851. Over 50 Brethren were in attendance including three Brethren from the United Grand Lodge of England and visitors from a good number of Provinces. Thirty-five Brethren remained for lunch – a most enjoyable day. The next meeting will be on Tuesday 11th July when Brother Willie Semple, Grand Secretary, will be the guest speaker.

SCFS


  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7193 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 1726, submitted by 490 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 438 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Ayrshire, Dumfriesshire, East Lothian, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire, Perthshire East, Perthshire West, Ross & Cromarty, and The Scottish Borders.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,467,334.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 
 

An extremely interesting post was received from Brother SasidharanMasterLodge Tullibardine in the East, No 1118Middle East. He provided news of a successful charity event by the Lodge in support of an education initiative for underprivileged children, advising also that the Lodge has raised over £17,500 for this cause. The funds will be used to provide primary and secondary academic support for children from the local underprivileged community. A commitment was made to the Tara Foundation in support of this education programme for 2 years. 

  • Once again, it was a pleasure to welcome new members from our Lodges overseas. This week particular reference must be made to Lodge Delco, No. 1624, Sierra Leone and the Gambia. 
  • In addition, Brethren from other Masonic constitutions, with which the GLoS is in amity, were similarly welcomed. Amongst these were Brethren under the GL of Texas… but deserving of special mention were Brethren joining from a total of 6 different Lodges under the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Paraguay.

 We will have a full programme over the weekend in Beirut including a Q&A session with senior Brethren from the District and visits to sites of religious and masonic interest.

On Monday Grand Secretary and I will be guests of the Grand Master of Washington DC (MWB Annas) as he conducts the annual Grand Visitation to his Lodges in Beirut.  This affords us another opportunity to unite together with the Regular Grand Lodges in Lebanon, in particular Washington DC and Grand Lodge Nationale Francaise.

The importance of maintaining Regular Freemasonry around the world is well exemplified in Lebanon where we have experienced and successfully challenged irregular freemasonry through the Grand Masters of Masons in North America, Commission on Information for Recognition. The Aims and Relationships of the Craft, read at all our Installation Ceremonies specifically state – “the Grand Lodge is aware that there do exist bodies styling themselves Freemasons, which do not adhere to these principles, and while that attitude exists the Grand Lodge of Scotland refuses absolutely to have any relations with such bodies or to regard them as Freemasons”.

Our Brethren around the world can be assured we will maintain these standards.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Yesterday we witnessed history in the making as Brethren attending the June Communication overwhelmingly voted for change to the Governance Structure of Grand Lodge. Much work will now go into implementing and developing the changes which will significantly improve the way Grand Lodge operates. Through this weekly update and our social media platforms you will be updated regularly on progress being made. Likewise, there will now be an annual report available to all members of the Scottish Craft to openly demonstrate what progress is being made with all matters pertaining to the governance of Grand Lodge.

I am particularly excited by the fact that both our District and Provincial Grand Masters will have their own Standing Committees through which they will have a far stronger voice than in the past. They will also be tasked to deal with any matters that the Strategy Committee feel can be best dealt with by District or Provincial Masters.

I would once again stress the need for volunteers for the Prostate Champion role. This project has so many positives attached to it. Possibly, those of you who have already suffered some form of Prostate Disease would be ideally suited to the role, but we are keen to recruit any Brethren who feel that they can be of service in this important position. Full training will be given, and back-up support will be available. So please give this matter serious consideration wherever you are at home or abroad. The success of the project will depend on securing sufficient volunteers for what will be a very fulfilling and rewarding function.

SCFS

 
  • There will be no SCFS report this week – Brother Fergie is having a well-deserved break.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 

A post by Brother Pédro Turnquest, JW, Lodge San Andreas, No. 1835, the Bahamas, was published advising of the Lodge’s support of the Aids Foundation in raising funds by selling books of raffle tickets at a local charity event. In total, the Lodge was able to donate the excellent sum of over £800 to this wonderful cause.  The support of a variety of charities by other Lodges in the District of the Bahamas was also shown. 

  • Once again, it was a pleasure to welcome new members from our Lodges overseas. This week particular reference must be made to Lodge St. John, No. 618 (Far East). 
  • In addition, Brethren from other Masonic constitutions, with which the GLoS is in amity, were similarly welcomed. Amongst these, and deserving special mention, were many Brethren from Lodges under the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Paraguay.

On Wednesday evening, accompanied by the Substitute Grand Master and Grand D of C, we joined with a large Deputation of Brethren from Paraguay in Lodge Elgin and Bruce No 1077 where we witnessed Brother Mark Thompson receive an excellent MM Degree. The Degree was also witnessed by Brother Mark’s father, (Brother Craig Thompson, SPGM in Fife and Kinross and member of staff at Grand Lodge) and grandfather. It was excellent to see three generations in Lodge together.

Last Friday night, despite rail strikes, flights being cancelled and delayed, I was able to get to London and attend the Caledonian Lodge No 134 EC. I was accompanied by Brother Alexander Moncrieff, SGM and a large Deputation from our own Caledonian Lodge 392 in Edinburgh whose numbers were augmented by Brethren from neighbouring Lodges and Provinces in and near to Edinburgh. Despite the fact that I missed most of the meeting, I was made very welcome by both the Master of the Lodge, Brother Fred Bain, and by Brother Chris Hayward, Deputy Metropolitan Grand Master.

The ensuing Festive Board was excellent, and it provided a good opportunity to meet with many of their members. The Lodge is actively encouraging Scots living and working in London to consider joining them and part of my visit was to encourage that process.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 

 

GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Time seems to be flying in these days – here we are in June already, half-way through the year.

However, June brings with it another wee test – the Masons4Munros challenge. May I take this opportunity to thank all participants and wish you a very enjoyable and safe climb. If this spell of good weather continues, the views from the tops will be tremendous – make sure you take plenty photographs. If you are not participating, can I ask you to support those who are. 

All monies raised will go toward supporting the Prospack Project – a joint venture between the Scottish Craft and Prostate Scotland to provide support / care packs to all men undergoing treatment for prostate cancer or disease. My sincere thanks to you all for continuing to help in the fight against this insidious disease. The link for sponsorship of participants or to make a donation is Just Giving for Masons4Munros at  www.justgiving.com/campaign/PSGLoSPROSPACK-Masons4Munros

The other legacy project we are promoting at present is the creation of a Prostate Champion in every Province and District. Can I commend this project to you and make a plea for volunteers to come forward and undertake this important and vital role. No previous experience is necessary as appropriate training will be given throughout the summer so that we can forge ahead at the start of the new Masonic Season in September.

This project ticks so many boxes. It provides an opportunity to educate men – whether they are members of the craft or not. It provides an opportunity to be in a position to listen to and give basic advice to those who have been hesitant to broach the subject of prostate disease, and it provides an opportunity for Scottish Freemasons to reach into their respective communities and provide a free and important service that does not exist at present. Please give this project your support – I can assure you it will be a very fulfilling and rewarding experience. For further information, please speak to your Provincial or District Grand Master or contact Grand Almoner. Thank you.

SCFS


  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7184 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 1710, submitted by 486 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 438 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Ayrshire, Forfarshire, Lanarkshire Middle Ward, Linlithgowshire, Perthshire West and Renfrewshire West.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,441,399.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
  

A post by Brother Tony Osman, demonstrating the ongoing support of the Brethren in Malawi, was published showing the unstinting giving of their time, effort and care as they distributed materials for roofing of over 60 houses which had been damaged by Cyclone Freddy. This was in addition to the distribution of clothing to the local villagers.

  • Once again, it was a pleasure to welcome new members from our Lodges overseas. This week particular reference must be made to Lodge Star in the East, No. 640 (Japan, Far East) and toLodge St. Thomas, No. 576 (Gibraltar).

 

  • In addition, Brethren from other Masonic constitutions, with which the GLoS is in amity, were similarly welcomed. Amongst these were Brethren from the Grand Lodge of the Philippines and the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Paraguay

 

On Tuesday night, accompanied by Ann, I had the pleasure to attend the “Box Opening Night” of the Incorporation of Masons of Glasgow in Trades House Glasgow. Deacon Rev David Taylor presided and Grand Organist, Brother Jonathan Buchan, was on hand to provide musical accompaniment. A thoroughly enjoyable evening.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason