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

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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Last weekend was a particularly busy but enjoyable one.

On Friday night, accompanied by our Substitute Grand Master, Brother Alexander Moncrieff, I witnessed an excellent Entered Apprentice Degree carried out by the Reigning Masters in the Province of Stirlingshire. 130 brethren signed the attendance book. 

On Saturday, in the Province of Fife, I had the privilege of heading a Grand Lodge Deputation to Lodge St Clair of Dysart where 120 brethren gathered to witness the Lodge being rededicated on the occasion of its 150th anniversary.

It was more of a home game on Monday night when I drove up to Kyle for the annual Provincial visit to Lodge Kyle No 1117. There we witnessed an enjoyable MM Degree followed by the usual west coast Harmony, enjoyed by all. However, the journey home took almost two hours given the number of stags wandering around the lower slopes.

This morning, as you read the update, I will be in Inverness to officially start a joint Provincial fun-raising initiative on behalf of Poppy Scotland. The Provinces of Caithness, Sutherland, Ross and Cromarty and Inverness-shire are combining to cycle the NC500 route.

On Sunday, I travel down to Glasgowwhere, accompanied by DGM, Brother William Gauld, SGM Alexander Moncrieff and Assistant Grand Secretary, Duncan McFadyen, I will attend a Service of Thanksgiving in commemoration of the Coronation, in Glasgow Cathedral.

SCFS

 
 
o As the group now heads into its fourth year, it reminds us of those three great principles which we as Freemasons hold so dear, Faith, Hope and Charity. Faith in the belief that we may offer some solace to those who may be less fortunate than we are. Hope that in some measure the support being given brings some comfort to those in need around us. And charity, that greatest of all gifts which has been undertaken by our Brethren, their Lodges, Districts and Provinces and shared within the group over the last three years.
o Support can take many forms both financial and practical and a shining example can be found this weekend as part of the celebrations surrounding the coronation of King Charles the Third. The Big Help Out, which was publicised last week on the Grand Lodge Social Media platform gives us the opportunity to assist those in our communities who may need a helping hand and we would be delighted to see any examples of this being shared within the group.
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7147 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 1669, submitted by 475 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 437 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Argyll & The Isles, Dumfriesshire, Linlithgowshire, Midlothian, Perthshire East, Perthshire West, and The Scottish Borders.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,288,875
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 

There will be no Overseas Report this week.

Looking forward to a visit to Larkhall next Saturday to mark the 200th anniversary of Lodge St Thomas, No 306.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

What an enjoyable day we had in Beauly with the Brethren of Lodge Priory – all went well and the welcome and hospitality extended to the Grand Lodge Deputation was exceptional.

Likewise, the welcome received in Dublin was tremendous. On Thursday night we enjoyed a formal dinner in Grand Lodge along with the other visiting Grand Lodge representatives. On Friday, the Grand Lodge was packed to capacity to witness the Installation of Brother Rodney McCurley and his Depute. The entire ceremony was relayed by CCTV to another venue such was the demand for tickets. The Ceremony itself was different from our Grand Lodge Installation Ceremony which made the day all the more interesting and enjoyable.

On Friday night, Past Grand Master, Brother Charles Iain Robert Wolrige Gordon of Esslemont and Grand Secretary attended the Installation Banquet while I headed back to be in Beauly on Saturday morning. We all enjoyed the Irish experience and look forward to having the same working relationship with Brother Rodney McCurley as we have enjoyed with Brother Douglas Gray.

Yesterday, we had a meeting of Grand Committee which, depending on how the vote goes on 8th June, could be the final meeting of Grand Committee as we know it. It was a short but very productive meeting with good positive reports coming from all the Committees. 

As we approach the Grand Lodge Meeting in June, several Brethren have rightly been asking questions as to how the proposed changes will work in practice. To give the Brethren the best possible understanding of the proposed changes, Grand Secretary is preparing a Frequently Asked Questions article which will appear on the Grand Lodge website. Details will be circulated soon.

On Sunday 7th May, accompanied by Brothers William Gauld, Alexander Moncrieff and Duncan McFadyen, I will attend a Service of Thanksgiving in commemoration of the Coronation, in Glasgow Cathedral. I look forward to flying the flag of Scottish Freemasonry at the service.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7137 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 1660, submitted by 475 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 437 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 Inverness-shire, Lanarkshire Upper Ward, Linlithgowshire, Midlothian, Perthshire West, Renfrewshire East, and Renfrewshire West.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,280,275.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 
  • At the end of our 3rd year, it’s extremely heartening to reflect upon the fact that we have a Membership of 1928Brethren from our Lodges overseas ... and that this membership increases steadily. In this respect, this week, particular reference is made to Lodge Perla del Oriente, No. 1034(Philippines, Far East), to Lodge Peace, No. 908 (Lebanon) and to Lodge St. Andrew, No. 829 (Western Australia). 
  • It’s also heartening to note that there are now 1737members, from Lodges operating under other Masonic constitutions which are recognised by the GLoS, who are spreading news of the excellent support shown in the published posts on SCFS. This week, new members joined from Lodges under the GL of Nevada, GL of the Philippinesand UGLE. 
  • A third heartening point is the steady submission of posts from overseas. This week, an excellent post was received from Brother Nihal Fonseka, DoC, Lodge Bonnie Doon, No 611. He detailed the outstanding support provided by the Brethren from the four Lodges in Sri Lanka, in conjunction with Brethren from Mangalore, and coordinated by Brother Dr. Jayakrishnan, IPM, St. Andrew’s Lodge, No. 1832, in donating over £4000 worth of essential surgical sutures. These are in extremely short supply in Sri Lanka.

Tonight, Friday 28th I look forward to attending the Provincial Grand Lodge of Stirlingshire accompanied by Substitute Grand Master, Brother Alexander Moncrieff, where we will witness a Reigning Masters’ Degree. Tomorrow, it’s off to Fife to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Lodge St Clair of Dysart No 520

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Last week I mentioned that we are heading for an exciting time for our PGM’s and DGM’s. After meeting with both the PGM’s and DGM’s last weekend, I was greatly heartened by their positive reports from the Provinces and Districts, by their support and enthusiasm for the Young Masons initiative and by the prospect of having a far greater voice in the governance of the organisation than they have ever had before. The attendance at both meetings was excellent with only four Provinces and half a dozen Districts not represented. In fairness to the Districts, we did experience quite a few technical issues which accounted for some of the absenteeism.

On Tuesday night, Grand Secretary and I along with Brother Andrew Mushet, PGM of Glasgow and Bro David Quinn, PG Secretary of Glasgow attended the Yom HaShoa programme in Giffnock Synagogue, organised by the Glasgow Jewish Representative Council. As previously experienced, this was a very poignant and moving evening during which young and old participated in the programme. The Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, KBE, summed up the essence of the event in his written message saying – “The Shoah challenges us to confront what it really means to be human and to grapple with our capacity for both good and evil. Yom HaShoa provides that essential moment for us when we stop to recall the unspeakable horrors of our past and remember those who perished. May the memory of the six million spur us on to work tirelessly for the common good and to eradicate evil wherever it can be found”. 

We should all remember too that Freemasons were also victims of the Nazi regime. Figures vary but it is believed that as many as 200,000 Freemasons were executed along with the six million Jews, one of the reasons that we receive an invitation to attend the Yom HaShoa every year.

I am writing the update this week in Dublin where Grand Secretary and I are attending the Installation of Brother Rodney Lees McCurley as the new Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ireland. A total of 19 Grand Lodges are present in Dublin for the occasion. I am sure that you will all wish me to convey best wishes to Brother Douglas Gray for his retirement and thank him for his stewardship of the Grand Lodge and for promoting the close relationship that exists between the Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Grand Lodge of Scotland. We look forward to continuing the strong relationship we have with Ireland through Brother Rodney McCurley and his Commission, and we extend to them our very best wishes as they take over the helm of the Grand Lodge of Ireland.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7132 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 1652, submitted by 473 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 435 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 East, Glasgow, Inverness-shire, Lanarkshire Middle Ward, Linlithgowshire and Orkney & Zetland.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,271,175.

SCFS Overseas Report 
 
  • This week, an excellent post was received from Brother Alexander Stewart, JW, Lodge Nyasa, No. 946, detailing the outstanding support being provided by the Brethren in Malawi, assisted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross and Cromarty, to students at the Mountain View School for the Deaf in Bvumbwe. 60 bags of maize, valued at £1000, were donated in order to supplement the students’ daily food rations, which had been severely impacted by Cyclone Freddy. 
  • Thanks is extended to our overseas brethren from the following Lodges for taking the time to join this group: Lodge St. Joseph, No. 1838 (Bahamas), Lodge Lusaka, No. 1368 (Zambia), The Coronation Lodge, No. 930 (Kwazulu Natal), Lodge Perla del Oriente, No. 1034 (Far East) and Lodge Felicity, No. 1681 (Trinidad & Tobago and Grenada). 
  • International Constitution Members (ICMs) were approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS … including the GL of New Zealand, GL of Colorado, GL of Wisconsin, GL of the Philippines and the GL of Quebec. 

On Saturday, I am looking forward to heading a Grand Lodge Deputation to Lodge Priory No 1235 in the Province of Inverness-shire to celebrate their centenary. 

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

This past week has been a relatively quiet week Masonically with two zoom meetings and a busy day in Grand Lodge yesterday.

However, on Tuesday night I was invited to give a talk on the work that Scottish Freemasonry,and in particular the Province of Ross and Cromarty, has been doing in Malawi. On this occasion, the audience was not Masonic but consisted of ladies of the Scottish Women’s Institute from Ross-shire, Sutherland and Inverness-shire.

I always enjoy telling non-masonic audiences about the values of Scottish Freemasonry and what we do to try and make the world a better place. Without fail, and it happened again on Tuesday, the comment was made – “I didn’t realise what the Freemasons do”. 

There has to be a lesson there for us all, to take every opportunity to expel the myths that surround the Craft and make the public aware of our principles, values and standards. You never know, some of those women present on Tuesday night might just have gone home and suggested to their menfolk that they should consider joining the Craft!

This weekend will be a busy one. On Saturday I will be in Perth to host a meeting of Provincial Grand Masters and on Sunday I will repeat the exercise via zoom with our District Grand Masters. We have much to discuss and debate and Grand Secretary and I look forward to both meetings to consider especially, the way ahead for our PGMs and DGMs when they both establish new Standing Committees. It is an exciting time which will lead to our PGMs and DGMs having a far greater voice than ever before in the governance of the organisation.

SCFS

 

The Group saw its membership rise to 7123 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 1643, submitted by 469 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 434 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, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire and Moray & Nairn.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,266,675.


SCFS Overseas Report 

Thanks are extended to the many Brethren from Lodges in our Districts who strongly support SCFS by adding positive comments of encouragement to the posts which are published. This is greatly appreciated by the Brethren who have sent in details of their donations etc. 

• This week, an excellent post was published detailing the outstanding support being provided by the Brethenin Malawi, led by Brother Peter Curtis, Grand Superintendent, and including a number of Brethren from Lodge Viphya, 1571. Theyhad travelled to outlying villages in order to provide meals, blankets, plates, cups, cooking oil, maize, beans, soya pieces etc. to many villagers whose homes have been destroyed by Cyclone Freddy. The financial support from Lodge Angoni, No. 1404, was also recognised.

• International Constitution Members (ICMs) were approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS … including the GL of Ireland, GL of Connecticut, GL of Newfoundland and Labrador, GL of the Philippines, and UGLE

• It was also a pleasure to welcome Brother Jack Biggs, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Maryland. 

I have been asked to make our readers aware of the following meeting –

Sir Robert Moray: A Man of Relevance. A symposium in Edinburgh hosted by Lodge Sir Robert Moray on Saturday 30thSeptember 2023. 

For further information please visit:www.MoraySymposium.org  

Symposium fee: £75. Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Robert Moray was the first speculative freemason to be initiated on English soil in 1641 before speculative freemasonry existed in England. He was a Scottish soldier, statesman, diplomat, judge, spy, and natural philosopherwho developed Royal and Masonic connections. He was a founder member of the Royal Society, publishing many scientific papers. He influenced developments in the turbulent Europe of the 17thcentury, when a state of war was common-place and alchemy was giving way to science. 

Next week is a bit busier and I look forward to reporting back to you all on our attendance at the Yom HaShoah(Holocaust Remembrance Day) meeting in Giffnock Synagogue, and the Installation of the new Irish Grand Master in Dublin

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

What a memorable night in Lodge Union and Crown 307 in Barrhead! The business for the evening was the working of their famous dramatized FC Degree based on Lodge Minutes and Records from 200 years ago. However, before we got to the working of the degree another wee drama, involving the best kept secret in the history of the Lodge, unfolded.

Brother William H Gauld, better known to us all as Brother Bud Gauld, was presented with a complete set of Past Depute Grand Master regalia by the Lodge for his use at the conclusion of his Commission. The Lodge very graciously invited me to attend the meeting and make the presentation which I duly did, but only after I had adjourned the Lodge and invited Bud’s wife, Mrs Mary Gauld, his two daughters, Nicola and Amanda and his daughter-in-law, Fiona to enter the Lodge accompanied by Brother Johnny Gauld, to witness the presentation. By this time Brother Bud Gauld, who always knows all that is happening in 307, was totally perplexed. Only then, assisted by the Master of the Lodge and the Provincial Grand Master, did I reveal the regalia and make the presentation. The Brethren were keen to show their appreciation to Brother Bud Gauld for all he has done for the Lodge and to mark their pride in him being appointed Depute Grand Master. Once the presentation was over and the Gauld family had departed, the business of the evening got under way. Can I simply say that if you have never witnessed the dramatized degree – please put it on your bucket list – it is well worth seeing.

After returning home from Grand Lodge yesterday, I had the privilege of addressing the Brethren of the Lodge of Masonic Enlightment in the Bahamas, via zoom. The Lodge is flourishing and is a real tribute to the enthusiasm and commitment of our Brethren in the Bahamas. 

SCFS

   
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7118 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 1633, submitted by 467 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 432 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, Fife & Kinross and Linlithgowshire.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,260,245.
 

SCFS Overseas Report 

 

A very interesting post was published thanks to Brother Javon Rolle from the District PR Department, (District of The Bahamas), who shared news of a very generous donation by Lodge St. Joseph, No. 1838, to the Great Commission Ministries, which is responsible for feeding those in need.

  • Overseas membership of the SCFS group again increased. Particular mention this week goes to Lodge Trinity, No. 1733(Trinidad & Tobago and Grenada), Lodge of Unity, No. 1510 (Zambia), Lodge Middlesex, No. 1628(Jamaica), Lodge Adonis, No. 1584 (Lebanon), Lodge St. Michael, No. 1634 (Bahamas), and Lodge Golden Thistle, No. 840 (Western Australia Goldfields).

 

  • Additional International Constitution Members (ICMs) were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS … including the GL of the Philippines, UGLE(Eastern Archipelago), and GL “Alpina” of Switzerland. These ICMs help spread news, throughout the world, of the many examples of Masonic support featured on SCFS.

This Saturday will involve a change of regalia when I head for Tain to witness MEC Dr Joe Morrow install the new Grand Superintendent of Ross and Cromarty, MEC Morris Downie. Looking forward to sitting quietly in the columns with nothing to do!

Next Saturday, I will be chairing a meeting of the Provincial Grand Masters in Perth and on Sunday 16th April, will repeat the exercise with our District Grand Masters, via zoom. I am looking forward to both meetings and to hearing of all that is happening in the Provinces, Districts and Superintendencies.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Last Saturday was an extremely busy one. I was honoured to head a large Deputation from Grand Lodge to Troon in Ayrshire where over 300 Brethren gathered to witness Brother Jim Bell being installed as Provincial Grand Master of Ayrshire along with his Commission. 

At the same time, Substitute Grand Master, Brother Alexander Moncrieff, headed a Grand Lodge Deputation to Tarbert, Loch Fyne where he carried out a splendid rededication ceremony assisted by Brother Alistair Henderson (Acting Grand Chaplain) and Brother George Donnelly (Assistant Grand D of C) to celebrate the centenary of Lodge Tarbert, Tarbert Loch Fyne 1306. 

On Tuesday evening I was greatly privileged to attend a meeting of the Zodiac Circle in Glasgow as their guest speaker. The welcome and hospitality was of the highest order, and I was indebted to Brother Tom Jessop for his hospitality and assistance in getting there and back. My thanks to President Hamilton Purdie and the Companions for a wonderful evening.

Yesterday I attended a meeting of the Overseas Committee in the morning at which the Chair, Brother Jim Jack, got us through a long agenda very quickly and smoothly. It was good to acknowledge that a number of Lodges that were struggling, especially in South Africa, are now resuming once again.

In the afternoon, Grand Secretary and I had a long overdue planning meeting which included an update on the Young Masons Initiative which is being well received by almost all Provinces and Districts. It is vitally important that we encourage the Young Masons – they are our future.

SCFS

   
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7111 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 1626, submitted by 465 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 431 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, Fife & Kinross, Forfarshire, Galloway, Glasgow, Midlothian, & Perthshire West.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,257,544.
 

SCFS Overseas Report 

Once again, very interesting posts from our Districts were published this week.

  • Brother Craig Jessop, District Grand Master, Eastern Province of The Cape of Good Hope, advised the group of a substantial joint donation from Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965, and Lodge Good Friendship, No. 1800, added to by the District Grand Lodge of East Africa, which was presented on their behalf by the Grand Master Mason to the School of Autism in Port Elizabeth.
  • Brother Javon Rollefrom the District PR Department, shared a TV News time feature video about the long standing, excellent community support (twice a year for 27 years) of All Saint’s Camp by Lodge St. Michael, No. 1634, District Grand Lodge of The Bahamas, including its recent donation of essential goods.

Overseas membership of the SCFS group again increased. Particular mention this week goes to Lodge Good Friendship, No. 1800, Lodge Koodoo, No. 1317, Lodge Kirkwood Kilwinning, No. 1393, and Lodge Bon Accord, No. 965 (all from the District of the Eastern Province of The Cape of Good Hope), and to Lodge St. Michael, No. 1634 (The Bahamas), which was the Lodge from which most new members joined. 

Additional members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. We were particularly delighted to welcome Brother Pete Murdoch, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Western Australia.

The next Scottish International Conference in 2024/25 will be in Lebanon and the 2027/28 Conference will be in Livingstone, Zambia close to the Victoria Falls. As soon as the dates for the two conferences have been agreed we will publish them so that you can do a bit of pre-planning and preparation. I am certainly looking forward to both.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Apart from the weather being cold and wet, I had an excellent two days in Greenock on my return from Zambia. I was met at the airport by the PGM, Brother John Black and Brother Stuart Smith. Friday afternoon was spent in the company of the PGM, John Black and SPGM Alan Beck with whom I visited the Greenock Burns Club in the old Customs House. After spending a very instructive hour there, we visited the grave of Highland Mary. In the evening I joined with a number of the brethren, including the new Commission, for a delightful meal in the Tontine Hotel. On Saturday, I had the honour of installing Brother John Williamson Black as the new PGM of Renfrewshire West. A superb day enjoyed by all. Then, finally arrived home courtesy of Brothers Alex Craib and Ian MacLaren.

Monday night saw a good turnout of Brethren in Lodge Seaforth 854 for the annual Provincial Visitation. Was good to be home and just sit back and enjoy the meeting.

Thursday, I got back into the routine of being in Grand Lodge – turned out to be a busy day with the Admin Committee in the morning and a debrief meeting with Grand Secretary in the afternoon.

SCFS

   
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7101 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 1613, submitted by 461 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 431 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Aberdeenshire West, Edinburgh, Forfarshire, Linlithgowshire, Midlothian, & Renfrewshire West.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,242,045.
 
 

SCFS Overseas Report

Very interesting posts were published this week. 

• Brother Dave Munroe, SDGM, District Grand Lodge of the Bahamas, shared news of the support given by the District Grand Lodge to the Ministry of Education and Technical Training, part of which involved Brother Anthony Bostwick, DGM, presenting the award for the best overall performance by a male student, as this young man moves forward to pursuits in the medical profession.

• News of the continuation of the decade long support by Lodge Heart’s Content, No. 1275, in the District of Newfoundland and Labrador, to students in the Trinity Bay area, through the presentation of an anti-bullying project (performance of a play and poster competition) was shared by Brother Scott Bartlett, IPDGM.

• Overseas membership of the SCFS group again increased and now stands at 1911. Particular mention this week goes to Lodge Golden Throne, No. 1344 and Lodge Adonis, No. 1854.

• Additional members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. Recently we have had Brethren joining from Lodges governed by the GL of Japan, GL of Victoria, GL of Quebec, GL of Tennessee, UGLE, and the GL of Kansas. 

We were delighted to welcome Brother Tony Borum, Past Grand Master of the GL of Kansas and also Brother Craig Davis, Past Grand Master of the GL of Iowa.

Looking forward to being in Ayrshire this weekend to install Past Depute Grand Master, Brother Jim Bell as PGM of Ayrshire.  Next Tuesday, have been invited to the prestigious Zodiac Group in Glasgow.

Congratulations to our Junior Grand Deacon, Brother Jim Jack, who was recently installed as Assistant Grand Tyler in the Grand Lodge of Kansas, United States of America.  Very well done Jim!!

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Greetings from Lusaka, Zambia

Thursday morning, and I am writing this week’s update from the Kenneth Kaunda Airport in Lusaka awaiting a flight to Johannesburg on the first leg of my journey back to Scotland.

Last Saturday saw over 300 Brethren assemble in the Scottish Masonic Centre, Johannesburg for the Installation of Bother Jim Kerr’s successor, Brother Julian Apfel. It was a splendid day – the organisation for the day was top class resulting in the whole day going according to plan. Once again, I was delighted to have Brother Kalpesh Shah as my D of C and Brother Jeremy Holley as my Grand Chaplain. It was good to see the hall packed to capacity for the ceremony which went well. After the Installation, we were well entertained by the Benoni Pipe Band in the grounds of the Masonic Centre while the hall was converted into a dining hall. 

On Sunday morning we travelled to Nigel for a Church Service at which there was a large attendance of Brethren all in Regalia. The Service commemorated the laying of the Foundation Stone of Nigel Methodist Church on 14th March 1903 which, like our experience in Kalgoorlie, involved the local Scottish Masons. In the Lodge Minute Book in 1903 it states – “It was noted that the Methodist community of Nigel was in need of a place of worship” – thereafter the members of the Lodge proceeded to build the church.

I left Johannesburg on Monday, accompanied by the Brethren from East Africa and flew to Lusaka in Zambia where I was met by Brother Frank McCully, the outgoing DGM and Brother Douglas Ironside, the incoming DGM. We enjoyed a pleasant meal together on Monday night during which we planned the remainder of the week.

On Tuesday morning I had a very useful meeting with the Commissioned Office-bearers which lasted until lunch time when we were joined by the East African Brethren for lunch. In the evening we attended an excellent FC Degree worked by Lodge Lusaka No 1368 under the guidance of their Master, Brother Maaya Chipwayambokoma.

It was back to the Lodge on Wednesday morning for a rehearsal for the Installation. All went well and at 18.30 the District Grand Lodge was opened, and I had the honour of Installing Brother Douglas Ironside as the new DGM. Another tremendous night which ended with a Banquet in the hotel where we were joined by the ladies. A great ending to a long but very enjoyable trip.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7094 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 1603, submitted by 459 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 430 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 Caithness, East Lothian, Fife & Kinross, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire and Orkney & Zetland.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,127,955.
  
 

SCFS Overseas Report

Very interesting posts were published this week. 

  • Brother Dave Munroe, SDGM, District Grand Lodge of the Bahamas, shared information on the District’s Annual Blood Drive which will assist and support those who are in medical need, the Drive was featured on the TV programme “Our News Bahamas”, along with an interview with Brother Munroe. A donation of the gift of life … in which 28 pints of blood were donated by the Brethren.
  • Following the news of the Brethren from Lodge Newfoundland Kilwinning, No. 1754, giving of their time and efforts to support the “Gathering Place” in order to serve breakfast to its users, we were delighted to share a further post featuringLodge Newfoundland Kilwinning. This time showing its recent financial donation to Stella’s Circle in St. John’s, Newfoundland, which will go towards supporting women under 30 at the Naomi House Crisis Shelter. 

Overseas membership of the SCFS group again increased as Brethren joined from Lodge Royal Stuart, No. 893 (Western Australia), Lodge Roodepoort Caledonian, No. 865 (Central South Africa), Lodge Koodoo, No. 1317 and Lodge Kirkwood Kilwinning, No. 1393 (both Eastern Province of the Cape of Good Hope), Lodge Harry S. Truman, No. 1727 (Far East), and Lodge Academic, No. 1150 (Nigeria). 

Brethren, some further information will be sent to daughter Lodes within the next few days relating to the MASONS4MUNROS CHARITY CHALLENGE which is taking place in June this year.  If you are interested in participating or would like to find out more about this challenge, please contact Brian Hopkins This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

All being well, I will arrive in Glasgow on Friday morning via Johannesburg and Heathrow. I will be met in Glasgow by the Brethren from Renfrewshire West. On Friday afternoon accompanied by the Provost Drew MacKenzie and Brother Alan Beck I will visit Highland Mary’s grave and Greenock Burns Club after which I will have dinner with some of the Renfrewshire West Brethren. On Saturday, I’ll have the honour of installing Brother John Williamson Black as the new PGM of Renfrewshire West.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Greetings from Johannesburg

Another busy week, first of all in Cape Town, where I was joined by a great Deputation from the District Grand Lodge of East Africa who are accompanying me throughout South Africa. Their DGM, Brother Kalpesh Shah is my acting Grand D of C while District Grand Secretary, Jeremy Holley is acting Grand Chaplain. Both Brethren are doing a splendid job. First call was on Saturday 4thMarch, when I had the privilege and pleasure to install Brother Frank Winter as the 21st DGM of the District Grand Lodge of the Western Province of the Cape of Good Hope. Brother Winter takes over from Brother David Gallacher who has been a real stalwart for Scottish Freemasonry in the Western Cape. On the Sunday, I accompanied Frank and Dave to the fossil site of Langebaanweg. It is a fascinating place that gives a real insight into life in the area 5 million years ago when sabre toothed cats, short necked giraffes and many other now extinct species were commonplace.

Monday 6th March began with an early morning flight to Port Elizabeth. We arrived at 07.45 and over coffee had a planning session with DGM, Brother Craig Jessop, and his team followed by lunch where I met with most of the District Office-Bearers. That afternoon we met the Rector of Grey’s School who kindly gave us a guided tour of the excellent facilities the school boasts. There is a strong Masonic link with the school – the founder was in the Craft. Lodge St Andrew 608 thereafter hosted a reception in the Grey’s Pavilion at which I met many of the District’s Reigning Masters and Past Masters. On Tuesday I was privileged to present an achievement award to Adrian Gardiner, Founder of CCFA (Community Conservation Fund Africa) in recognition of all he has done for wildlife and conservation. From Nyosi Wildlife Estate it was back to the Lodge rooms where Lodge Koodoo hosted a reception prior to working an excellent FC Degree. I was delighted to meet up with the outgoing DGM, Brother Wayne Corney who has been another steadfast and determined District Master – a real credit to Scottish Freemasonry.

Early on Wednesday 8thMarch we attended a meeting of Lodge Sonheuwel. This has been changed to a “Pensioners” Lodge and meets during the day. Later, we enjoyed breakfast with the Brethren and I presented a cheque to a local school where autistic children are taught. This was followed by a presentation from local politician, Annette Lovemore, on the water shortage currently affecting the Eastern Province. Then it was back to the guest house to get changed for the Installation of the new DGM, Brother Craig Leonard John Jessop, and his Commission. The Lodge was full to capacity for the Ceremony after which we were joined by the ladies at the Banquet at the Thatchwoods Hospitality venue. A truly remarkable day enjoyed by all.

Thursday morning, cases all packed once more for the two-hour flight to Johannesburg. We arrived mid-afternoon which gave me some time to compose the Update before having dinner with the outgoing DGM, Brother Jim Kerr and his charming wife Dorothy.

Today we are meeting up with a Deputation from Lanarkshire Middle Ward, led by PGM Andrew D Millar and including Proxy DGM Gordon Mather. They are there as part of their twinning arrangement with the District of Central South Africa, and together we toured Soweto before an evening braai with the local Brethren. Tomorrow heralds the Installation of Bother Jim Kerr’s successor, Brother Julian Apfel.

SCFS

  
 
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7087 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 1587, submitted by 454 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 430 Lodges, from within 59 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 Provinces of Glasgow, Lanarkshire Middle Ward, Linlithgowshire and Stirlingshire.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,109,677.
 

SCFS Overseas Report

 

Masonic support doesn’t always have to involve financial outlay. This was demonstrated in a post shared by Brother Scott Bartlett, IPDGM, Newfoundland and Labrador, which featured Brethren from Lodge Newfoundland Kirkliston, No. 1754, giving of their time and efforts to support the “Gathering Place” in order to serve breakfast to its users. The Gathering Place is a community health centre which provides much needed services including food, clothing, overnight shelter, and social supports to people in the Lodge’s community who struggle every day to find enough food to eat … providing 3 meals a day, 7 days a week; an average of over 3000 meals each week.

• Overseas membership of the SCFS group again increased as Brethren from Lodge St. John, No. 623, (Jamaica), Lodge Naval and Military, No. 848, (Hong Kong, Far East), Lodge Tullibardine in the East, No. 1118, (Malaysia, Middle East) joined. Members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS, this week from the GL of India, GL of Nigeria, and UGLE. 

Brethren, this week, Grand Secretary has circulated a letter regarding an exciting new journey to increase the active participation of young and new members of the Scottish Craft, by establishing Scottish Constitution Young & New Masons groups, worldwide. Please ensure that the letter is read in all Lodges.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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