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 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

 
 
 
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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, 

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

 
 
 
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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, 

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.
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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

 
 
 
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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, 

First Prostate Champion Training Session

On Wednesday 20 September the first group of Prostate Champions were involved in their initial training session. A total of 13 volunteers from six provinces took part in the session in Renfrew at the premises of Lodge Prince of Wales No.426.Several observers were also present. The two Provincial Grand Lodges and the Provincial Grand Royal Arch Chapter in Renfrewshire are working together to get the widest coverage in all the masonic premises in Renfrewshire.

The training, by Adam Gaines and Mae Bell of Prostate Scotland, provided the volunteers with the facts and handbooks to pass on their knowledge and raise awareness in the West of Scotland. Future training session will soon be held in the East and North of Scotland. Additionally, Zoomsessions for those further afield or unable to attend the local sessions will take place very soon after the assessment of the success of the first training session. The volunteers are there to help you, so keep your eyes open for a talk in your area.

SCFS

 
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7308 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 1819, submitted by 512 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 Edinburgh Castle, No. 1764 (Edinburgh), supporting The Dean & Cauvin Trust.
o Linlithgowshire Almoners (Linlithgowshire), supporting Who Dares Cares.
o Kajaki, No. 1848 (East Lothian), supporting Military Museum, Who Dares Cares, Home for Veterans, ACVC Hub & Western Desert Recce Group.
o PGL East Lothian, supporting PGL Durham Charity Cycle Run.
o PGL Ross & Cromarty, supporting Who Dares Cares.
o PGL Perthshire West, supporting Who Dares Cares.
o Western Districts Association (Glasgow), supporting Kelbourne Park School.
o Inverkip Ardgowan, No. 1425 (Renfrewshire West), supporting Ardgowan Hospice.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,801,532.
 
SCFS Overseas Report


The following interesting post from Sri Lanka was shared by Brother Nihal Fonseka.

On 12 September the Master of Lodge Bonnie Doon, No.611, Colombo, Bro Heshan Peiris, the Grand Superintendent for Sri Lanka, Bro. Dharmin Perera and Depute Grand Superintendent, Bro. Commander Russell Kerkovan, visited the Rehabilitation Centre for the Communication Impaired and donated Rs 135,000 (£300) towards the material costs of their Vocational Training Workshop. The Rehabilitation Centre for the Communication Impaired (RCCI) is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1993 to care for children and adults with special needs. The funds were raised from contributions made by the brethren of the Lodge.

• This week there was a wonderful response from the District of Botswana, and we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Ntshe, No. 1746, Lodge Notwani, No. 1633, and Lodge Jwaneng, No. 1790. 
• Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and ACT and UGLE (South Africa Central). These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. 
 

The Rededication Ceremony in Lodge St Patrick No 1309 last Saturday was a very enjoyable occasion. The Master and Brethren, along with the Provincial Grand Master and his Brethren, made us most welcome. It was good to see the Lodge Room packed to capacity for the ceremony and an equally packed refectory for the excellent meal we enjoyed. Many congratulations on your Centenary.

Last Wednesday I had a very enjoyable evening in the company of the Brethren, and their wives, in the Province of Aberdeenshire East.Their warm welcome, hospitality and generosity were of the highest order. However, the drive home was not the most pleasant due to torrential rain and flooded roads. It feels as though huge volumes of water lying on the roads is, sadly,somethingwe experiencemuch more often these days.

Tomorrow, I am heading to Oban with a large Deputation to carry out the Installation of Brother John Douglas Stewart, our new Provincial Grand Master in Argyll and the Isles.

Last weekend our Jewish Brethren celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and our congratulations go to them. This weekend is Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) which is the holiest day of the Jewish year when many of our Jewish Brethren will be fasting. We wish them well.

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, 

Prostate Scotland are currently promoting two new free Prostate FFIT (Football Fans InTraining) exercise courses for men living with prostate cancer at Kilmarnock FC and Heart of Midlothian FC. These follow hugely successful pilot projects at Ibrox and Tynecastle earlier this year. The courses are an opportunity for men with prostate cancer to improve fitness levels, diet and nutrition over 12 weeks. They are led by coaches with specialist expertise in cancer and exercise and provide an opportunity for participants to meet men in a similar situation and share experiences. 

The programme is developed by experts from Prostate Scotland, University of Glasgow and the SPFL Trust. Prostate FFIT is suitable for all men with prostate cancer and is tailored individually to each participant. The course was reported on by Sky Sports Scotland who went along to a session at Tynecastle earlier this year.

The autumn courses will be held at Rugby Park and Tynecastle, starting early evenings Tuesday 19th September at Rugby Park and Wednesday 20th September at Tynecastle.  Participants can register at  www.spfltrust.org.uk/prostateffit.   Further information is available at https://www.prostatescotland.org.uk/news/sign-up-now-for-the-new-season-of-prostate-ffit  

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7303 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 1810, submitted by 511 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 is extended to the following Lodges who had posts submitted on their behalf this week:
    o Buchan St. John, No. 636 (Linlithgowshire) receipt of provisions from major retailer for distribution.
    o Eastmuir, No. 1126 (Glasgow) supporting Eastmuir School.
    o Polkemmet, No. 927 (Linlithgowshire) Senior Pupil Annual Achievement Award, Whitburn Academy.
    o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,795,931.
  •    SCFS Overseas Report

A wonderful demonstration of prompt and caring support was published this week. A few months ago, a fire ravaged an informal settlement in Isipingo. Hearing the plight of the victims, Brethren from Lodge Fort Jameson, No.1467, KwaZulu Natal, were able to quickly get donations of food and clothes within hours of the incident to assist the displaced.

• This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (Western Australia Goldfields District), Lodge Felicity, No.1681 (Trinidad and Tobago & Grenada), and Lodge Perla del Oriente, No. 1034 (Philippines, Far East).

• Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the Norwegian Order of Freemasons, GL of British Columbia and Yukon, and the GL of Greece. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the posts on SCFS to a worldwide audience. 
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Tomorrow, I am heading to Dumbarton with a large Deputation to celebrate the Centenary of Lodge St Patrick No 1309. I’m sure it will be a memorable day.

Looking forward through the remaining weeks of September, I will be in Aberdeenshire East on Tuesday the 19thfor an informal presentation on the duties of the GMM while overseas; on Saturday the 23rdI’ll be heading a Grand Lodge Deputation toOban to carry out the Provincial Grand Lodge Installation.

On 27th September, the Substitute Grand Master, Brother Alexander Moncrieff, Grand Secretary and I head to Panama to Consecrate the new Superintendency of Panama and install the new Grand Superintendent. 

I will report back on all those events in due course.

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 is the 190th weekly update – I never thought for a moment that three and a half years after the first one we would still be sending them out. From feedback received, it would appear that they still fulfil a purpose.

Last Saturday, I headed a Deputation to one of our oldest Lodges, The Lodge of Journeymen Masons No 8 to celebrate 150 years in the Blackfriars Street Lodge room. What a great day we had – a joy to work in such an old and interesting building followed by a splendid meal and excellent speeches. My sincere thanks to all involved in organising the day – it was highly memorable.

Tonight, I will be in Glasgow to attend the annual Past Master’s and Office-bearers Dinner in the Trades House Lodge. Grand Secretary and I both look forward to a very convivial evening in the splendid setting of Trades House. 

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7295 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 1806, submitted by 511 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 446 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:
  • Eaglesham, No. 1265 (Renfrewshire East) supporting The Kilbride Hospice.
  • Ben Ledi, No. 614 (Perthshire West) supporting Ripple Retreat.
  • Buchan St. John, No. 636 (Linlithgowshire) supporting various Sister Provinces with provisions.
  • Firth of Clyde, No. 626 (Renfrewshire West) supporting Gourock Boys Brigade.
  • Widows Sons East Chapter supporting The Lily Foundation.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,672,511.
SCFS Overseas Report 

This week, a post was published from Brother Danny Langcay with information about Brethren from Lodge Ivanhoe, No. 879, in Western Australia, who very kindly gave of their time to assist the Philippine Embassy during the passport processing in Perth, July 2023. A fine example of involvement in the community.

This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (Western Australia Goldfields District), Lodge Golden Thistle, No. 744 (Johannesburg, Central South Africa), and Lodge Pinelands Kilwinning, No. 960 (Western Province of the Cape of Good Hope).

Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of Ireland.

Congratulations are extended to Brother Fernando Mariano, Arcadio R. Evangelista Memorial Lodge, No. 254, under the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, who has become our 1800th ICM. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the posts on SCFS to a worldwide audience. 

I received information this week from our DGM in the Bahamas, Brother Tony Bostwick, along with some photographs, showing that the foundation of the new Scottish Masonic Centre in Nassau has been laid. This is good news for our Brethren in the Bahamas. The project started before Covid, but the pandemic brought it to a close. However, DGM Bostwick has re-established the venture and is spearheading a drive to raise funds and to make progress with the build. We wish them well in their endeavour.

Past Grand Master, Brother Joe Morrow, Chair of the Benevolence and Care Committee and I are both looking forward to an event on Friday 6th October in Grand Lodge when I will officially sign the Armed Forces Covenant. Dawn Oliff is busy working on the programme for the day. I’ll give more information in due course. 

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, I had the pleasure of heading a small Deputation from Grand Lodge, to Lodge Tarbolton (Kilwinning) St James No 135 where the Masters of the five Ayrshire Lodges who have recently celebrated their 250th Anniversary, worked an excellent Fellowcraft Degree as part of their charity appeal for Whiteleyes Retreat. 

At the conclusion of the meeting, we enjoyed an evening of fellowship. After an excellent meal, we had an array of speeches, entertainment, raffles, auction – a superb evening, but most importantly, an evening which raised the magnificent sum of £7,100 for Whiteleys Retreat.

Once again, we witnessed what can be achieved with a bit of teamwork, enthusiasm, and commitment.

Whiteleys Retreat, based outside Alloway, provides free therapeutic short breaks and extended support for children, young people, and their families, with cancer and life altering illnesses. Families from across Scotland can take advantage of the facilities.

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7292 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 1799, submitted by 509 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 446 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:
  • Bannockburn Bruce & Thistle, No. 312 (Stirlingshire) supporting The Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund.
  • Thistle, No. 127 (Ayrshire) supporting Whiteleys Retreat.
  • Andrew, No. 1443 (Dumfriesshire) supporting Annan Warriors Ladies Rugby Team.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,660,233.
SCFS Overseas Report 

This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge St. John, No 618 (Hong Kong, Far East), Lodge Api-Api, No. 1826 (Malaysia, Middle East), Lodge Aladro, No. 1757, and Lodge Academic, No. 1150 (both Nigeria). 

This brings our total of Overseas Members to 1982.

Brethren from other Masonic constitutions (ICMs) were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of Ohio, GL of New York, GL of Florida, and UGLE. 

We now stand at 1799 ICMs and look forward to welcoming our 1800th this week. These Brethren help spread news of the wonderful support featured in the post on SCFS to a worldwide audience. 

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Bro Billy Grant, SPGM of Provincial Grand Lodge of Ayrshire, became aware of the Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) project in Ireland and thought something similar could be done in Ayrshire. The Grand Lodge of Ireland have had tremendous success with the project so, the Province decided to support an Ayrshire version. They donated Teddies to Crosshouse Hospital and Ayr Hospital Paediatric Emergency Departments (A&E), where nursing staff (at their discretion) can give a bear to a child who may be in excessive pain and/or traumatised while attending the Emergency Department.


It has been proven to work in other parts of the UK to help children focus on something other than their distress or discomfort and help the nurse gain their confidence. The child gets to keep the teddy bear. 

The child also can have a positive feeling of their trip to A&E. This project will be ongoing and is funded by the Freemasons in Ayrshire through PGLA.

Other Provinces may wish to pursue a similar project in their own area.

Tomorrow, I look forward to being in one of our oldest Lodges, The Lodge of Journeymen Masons No 8 to celebrate 150 years in the Blackfriars Street Temple.

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, we left off at that part of the story when we returned to the hotel from the Karaoke Bar in Lagos – a totally new and different experience. 

On our arrival in Lagos, I was delighted that Grand Secretary and I were joined by the Proxy DGM, Brother Mike McAdams, who graciously agreed to act as Grand Chaplain on the day of Installation.

On the Friday morning, after breakfast, we travelled to Nike Art Centre owned by Nike Davies-Okundaye, a well-known artist in her own right. The Centre has four floors and a significant exterior area where there is a massive assortment of art in all the disciplines imaginable and all by Nigerian artists. It was a well worthwhile visit. From the Art Centre we travelled to the Lekki Conservation Centre run by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). A fascinating and at times challenging venue which we all enjoyed albeit we did not sight many animals other than monkeys.   

From there we travelled to the D’Podium Event Centre for a rehearsal of the Installation Ceremony before heading back to the hotel. We returned with our hosts to the Karaoke Bar for a meal and where the emphasis was on football rather than Karaoke.

After breakfast on Saturday morning, we changed into regalia and headed back to the D’Podium for a final check that all was in place for the Installation Ceremony. The Ceremony went well after which the venue was transformed into a dining hall and some 250 Brethren and wives enjoyed the evening banquet. After the banquet I was delighted to host a small reception for some of the main guests.

Sunday morning was fairly relaxed although we had to vacate the rooms by eleven at which time we travelled to see the Lodge building owned by Lodge Academic. It is a beautiful, practical building and we were well impressed. Immediately thereafter we drove to the Lagos Jet-Ski Riders Club where we were guests of Brother Irogun Moses Taiga, IPDGM, of the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria, English Constitution. We enjoyed an excellent lunch before being driven to the airport for the flight home.

I am delighted to report that both the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and the Gambia and the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria are both doing well and are a credit to the Scottish Craft. We take this opportunity to thank both Districts for their welcome, hospitality and friendship – it was a real privilege to meet with the Brethren and their wives.

The only downside from the trip was that Grand Secretary was infected by Covid and is now isolating at home. I’m sure you would all wish me to pass on best wishes for a full and speedy recovery. 

SCFS

 
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7284 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 1796, submitted by 507 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 445 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 Linlithgowshire & Stirlingshire.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,652,543.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 

 

Two very interesting posts related to the support of Overseas Lodges were published this week. 

  • Brother Sasi Dharan shared an article by Brother Abel Arumugam, DGM, Middle East, about a Charity Event organized by Lodge Lane Xang, No. 1632, Thailand, in support of the Duang Prateep Foundation. The foundation has been operating for 40 years and has made an immense impact through its invaluable efforts in aiding the impoverished communities residing in the slums of Bangkok.
  • Brother George Barrie, PM, informed the group of a wonderful donation made by Lodge Pattaya West Winds, No. 1803, Thailand, to “Take Care Kids”,a marvellous scheme helping abused children up to teenage years and mothers with small children who need a safe haven from abusers. The Lodge’s donation will supply a further fresh water filtered supply system.

This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Darul Takzim, No. 1836 (Middle East), Lodge Remo, No. 1682 (Nigeria), and Lodge Claremont, No. 931 (Western Province of the Cape of Good Hope). Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of the Philippines, and the GL of Cuba. 

Yesterday afternoon I was delighted to welcome the DGM of East Africa (EC), Brother Dr Virendra K. Talwar into Grand Lodge. Brother Talwar has been a great friend to the Scottish District in East Africa and is a splendid example of how the two Constitutions should work together. It was a real pleasure to welcome him and his family to Edinburgh.

Tomorrow, I am looking forward to a run down to Ayrshire to witness a Fellow Craft Degree being delivered by a Degree Team formed of members of the five Ayrshire Lodges chartered in 1771.

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

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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GLoS

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

Last Saturday it was back to Fife for the second time in two weeks. Once again, we received a great welcome from the Province of Fie and Kinross and from the Brethren Lodge King Robert de Bruce No 304 with whom we were celebrating 200 years of Freemasonry in Ladybank. My sincere thanks to all those involved in organising the celebration, your welcome, hospitality and generosity knew no bounds.

On Monday afternoon I travelled down to Edinburgh and was collected at 03.30 on Tuesday morning by Grand Secretary for an 06.00 flight to Freetown via Paris. The flights were uneventful then we hit Sierra Leone. What a welcome we received from the DGM, Brother Chrispin Bishop Deigh and his team at the airport. We were then transported to the ferry terminal for the 30-minute sea crossing into Aberdeen. Once checked into the hotel, we were whisked off to a reception in a nearby hotel. On arrival, we were met by traditional dancers, jugglers, stilts people and musicians while inside there was well over 100 brethren, wives and friends. After the official welcome we spent a couple of hours circulating and meeting people while enjoying the music of a local band. We finally got back to our hotel about 23.30, some twenty hours after leaving Edinburgh. 

Wednesday morning, we had an 07.00 breakfast meeting with the Chairman of the organising committee, Brother Centus Macauley before heading off at 08.00 for a rehearsal at the Georgeacland Masonic Temple. Rehearsal complete, by 09.30 we went off to meet the staff in the District Grand Lodge secretariat and spend some time with them.

We then travelled to the home of the British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Lisa Chesney who was born, raised and educated in Glasgow. What a charming lady who was extremely interested in the work of Scottish Freemasons.

From the High Commission, it was back to the Masonic Temple and a press conference with the local media during which I and Grand Secretary, had the privilege and pleasure of presenting sizeable cheques to both the local Salone cancer charity and King Charles Home.

It was then a short journey to the View Restaurant where we enjoyed a light lunch before returning to the Lodge to get changed ready to carry out the Rededication of the Temple. Once the official photos were taken, it was straight into the ceremony. Three things stood out for me – the excellence of the Acting Grand Chaplain, Brother Victor J O Hastings-Spaine who carried out his duties impeccably, the Acting Grand Organist, and the singing of the Brethren. It was awesome. When it came to the Benediction, the Masonic Choir excelled in a beautiful rendition of the Lord Bless Thee and Keep Thee. 

The following Banquet was excellent in respect of food, company and entertainment. A truly memorable night. Around ten o’clock, we left the Banquet and travelled across town to the DGM’s abode where we enjoyed further hospitality and entertainment. We finally returned to the hotel at 00.30 hours and had to be back up at 04.00 to catch the ferry at 05.00 on the onward journey to Nigeria. 

Last night we arrived in Lagos about 18.00 and after an informal meeting with the main Office-bearers, we were taken to a nearby Karaoke Bar – a totally different experience.

Today, we start off with several visits before heading to the Lodge for a rehearsal.

SCFS

 

The Group saw its membership rise to 7280 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 1788, submitted by 505 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 445 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 Fife & Kinross, Glasgow, Inverness-shire and Stirlingshire.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,639,843. 

 
SCFS Overseas Report 

An excellent example of cross constitution support of almost £300 by the Brethren in the Philippines was posted by Brother Cameron Sloan, PM, Past Depute District Grand Master, (Far East).  Lodge Perla del Oriente, No. 1034, Manila City, Far East, donated a cheque for P10,000 (over £140) to representatives of United Service Lodge 1341 EC of Hong Kong to be added to their fund-raising efforts to assist in the costs of dialysis of a Filipino Brother of that Lodge.  The donation was matched by Widow’s Sons Scotland - Perla del Oriente Chapter

  • This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Ratanakosin, No. 1833 (Thailand, Middle East). 
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of Newfoundland and Labrador, GL of the Czech Republic, GL of Nebraska, GL of Indiana, and the GL of Ireland(Middle East). 
 
Finally, as always, please stay safe and look after each other.
 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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