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, 

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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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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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren, 

It has been a very enjoyable and rewarding week since my last update. Last Saturday I had the pleasure of heading a large Deputation to Lodge St John No 540 in Crossgates, Fife where we received a very warm welcome not only from the Lodge but also from the Province. The whole day went very well – great turnout at the meeting, great meal, and great company. I was back on the A9 in plenty of time for “Take the Floor” – even got home before it finished!

On Tuesday, it was a pleasure to hear Brother James Coghlan give an excellent presentation on Rosslyn Chapel in Lodge Allan Wilson No 851. He certainly knows his stuff and I think all the 55 brethren present learned something new.

Yesterday, we had a very productive meeting of the Overseas Committee and a full briefing meeting prior to Grand Secretary and I departing for Sierra Leone and, later in the week, Nigeria.

Today, I am looking forward to having lunch in Lossiemouth with Past Grand Master, Brother Charles Iain Wolrige Gordon.

Tomorrow, it is back to Fife, this time to Ladybank where we will celebrate 200 years of Freemasonry in Lodge King Robert de Bruce No 304. Again, I have a very healthy Deputation of 20 Brethren from Grand Lodge.

SCFS

 
o The Group saw its membership rise to 7274 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 1781, submitted by 503 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 444 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 Ayrshire, Edinburgh, Inverness-shire, Lanarkshire Upper Ward, Linlithgowshire, and Stirlingshire
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,634,362.
 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 
• This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Kilwinning, No. 849andLodge Menzies Doric, No. 890 (both Western Australia), andLodge Trinity, No. 1846(Lebanon). 
• Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of Mississippi, UGLE, and the GL of Illinois. This now brings our total of theseICMs (International Constitution Members) to 1786, with members coming from an extremely wide range of countries. We look forward to welcoming our 1800th ICM in the near future. 

As I mentioned above, Grand Secretary and I will be leaving on the 06.00 flight on Tuesday morning to our District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone. It has been over 30 years since a Grand Master Mason visited the District. We will only have one full day in Freetown, but it will be action packed before flying on to Lagos, Nigeria where I will be installing the new District Grand Master, Brother Professor George EdaghoghoEriyamremu,and his Commissioned Office-Bearers.

We are already a third of the way through August. Many of our Lodges at home and overseas will be preparing to get underway once again for the new Masonic Season. As we return to our Lodges, it is a good time to ensure the following: insurance policies are up to date; all Lodges are fully compliant with national and local fire regulations;we are compliant with health and safety and health and hygiene regulationsand the buildings are thoroughly cleaned before we start again. Covid is still out there, so it will do no harm to give the premises a thorough clean with hand gel etc., available for any brethren who wish to avail themselves of it.

Likewise, please ensure the external aspects of our Lodges are looking good and the environs are kept in good order. There is nothing worse than the public at large viewing an untidy and unkempt building – it gives the wrong impression.

 
 
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, 

Prior to heading to Kilwinning a week past Saturday, I had the privilege of being shown round Rosslyn Chapel by Brothers Geoff Spence and James Coghlan. Both have an encyclopaedic knowledge of the building, and it was a sheer delight to be shown things and have them explained – things that I would otherwise have walked past. I am now looking forward to welcoming Brother Coghlan to the Black Isle on Tuesday 8th August when he will give an illustrated talk on Rosslyn Chapel. I’m sure the Master of Lodge Allan Wilson would be delighted to see you on the day. Good excuse to visit the Black Isle.

SCFS

 

The Group saw its membership rise to 7260 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 1773, submitted by 502 of its members.

These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 443 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 Aberdeen City, Banffshire, Forfarshire, Moray & Nairn, Perthshire East, Perthshire West, and The Scottish Borders.

The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,631,613.

 
SCFS Overseas Report 
 

This week, an extremely interesting Overseas post was published. Bro Capt Parth Dawda, Hon. Secretary, Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, Solapur, District of India, advised that Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, has undertaken a charity program to support the Sanskaar Sanjeevani Foundation which is working towards supporting 27 children, aged 6 years and above. They hail from deprived tribal families where they have lost either one or both parents and are taking their formal schooling from the nearby government school. The drinking water is of very poor quality so the Lodge decided to provide a commercial water treatment plant, which can treat 50 litres of water an hour, to this institute. It is also gearing up to give them water storage tanks and plumbing towards their normal need. This is in addition to providing a residence uniform to those children and educational book/notebooks as per their requirements.

  • This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodge Trinity, No. 1846(Lebanon), and Lodge Notwani, No. 1633(Botswana). Particular mention must be made to Lodge Kilwinning, No. 849 (Western Australia) from which the largest number of new members joined.
  • Brethren from other Masonic constitutions were similarly welcomed, such as Brethren from Lodges under the GL of India, GL of New Yorkand UGLE. 

Last Friday night I had the pleasure of attending the Provincial Grand Lodge of Midlothian Masters’ Dinner in Loanhead. It was an excellent night with good food, good company, and outstanding hospitality. A few Districts and Provinces already have Reigning Masters’ Dinners. They are a great team-building initiative. Districts and Provinces that have never had such an event, might consider doing so. While it gives reigning Masters the opportunity to meet and socialise with each other, it also provides a great chance to organise inter-Lodge visitations and so forth – something to think about.

The following day, Saturday 29th July, it was a real pleasure to attend the Installation meeting of Lodge St Andrew 814 in Pitlochry. What a delight it was to see an almost a full house in a Lodge that, not so long ago, was struggling to keep going. However, with a wee bit creativity, imagination and getting the sleeves rolled up, the Lodge is once again vibrant, and Brethren and visiting Brethren are enjoying being there. Let there be no doubt, it takes hard work to achieve this kind of turn around, but I have witnessed the same happening in our Scottish Lodges, literally around the world. With faith, determination, and dedication we can turn things around – never give up hope.

Tomorrow, looking forward to a trip down to Fife to celebrate 150 years of Freemasonry in Lodge St John No 540, in Crossgates. 

Our Brethren in the Bahamas are working hard to raise funds to make progress with the Scottish Masonic Complex. Last week concrete was poured and, all going well, the blocks will start to rise from the founds. This is an exciting project and we wish DGM Tony Bostwick and his team every success with fund-raising and construction. 

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, 

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 Mulala, Lodge 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

 
 
 
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