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,

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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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

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

Brethren,

Greetings from Cape Town

Last Saturday, I installed the new DGM of Western Australia Goldfields, Brother Arthur Anderson. What a splendid day we had. It started when Grand Secretary and I were collected by Brother Jim Clews, PM who took us on an hour-long flight around the Kalgoorlie area. We arrived back in time to get changed to attend a morning meeting of Lodge Leonora (WA Constitution) where we witnessed a fine rendition of the EA Degree. In the afternoon we returned to the Lodge where we installed Brother Anderson as DGM and his Commissioned Office-bearers. The meeting was followed by a superb Banquet where we were joined by the ladies. A truly memorable day.

During our time in Kalgoorlie, we had two meetings with thelocal ladies who are very keen to join regular women’s Freemasonry. We recommended they do so through an organisation such as the Order of Women’s Freemasonry.We explainedthat by going down that specific road they would have many opportunities to join with like-minded ladies world-wide.Grand Secretary and I have pledged to support them in their quest. In Scotland we enjoy a very positive relationship with the Order of Women Freemasons.  The Order has three ladies Lodges in Scotland and an international presence around the world, including Australia.We will watch their progress with interest.

On Sunday morning we achieved much in the way of good media coverage when we attended the local church in full regalia for Divine Service. It was indeed a very inspiring and thought-provoking service led by the Pastor, Lindsay Ginn. The local papers carried excellent reports including a full colour spread of the brethren in the Lodge and marching in file to the Church.

On Monday morning we flew back to Perth where we were supposed to attend a meeting of Lodge Royal Stewart but unfortunately it was cancelled which was something of a disappointment. However, my granddaughter, Tilly, who is touring Australia during her gap year was able to catch up with me in Perth for two days.

On Wednesday morning, it was back to the airport for me while Grand Secretary had another day in Perth before he flew home to Edinburgh via Doha. I flew from Perth to Singapore, Singapore to Johannesburg and Johannesburg to Cape Town where I was met by the outgoing DGM, Brother Dave Gallagher and his successor, Brother Frank Winter who I will have the pleasure of installing tomorrow.

Last night I had the privilege of attending Lodge Westerfordunder the Grand Lodge of South Africa.

SCFS

  
The Group saw its membership rise to 7080 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 1576, submitted by 453 of its members.
o These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 429 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 Edinburgh, Glasgow, Kincardineshire, Linlithgowshire, Midlothian and Sutherland.
o The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,099,397.
 

SCFS Overseas Report

 

Recently, a post from Brother Nihal Fonseka, PM, Lodge Bonnie Doon, No. 611, Sri Lanka, was published showing the Grand Master Mason, accompanied by Brother Alexander Moncrieff, Substitute Grand Master, and Brother George Donnelly, Assistant Grand Dof C, visiting the Rehabilitation Centre for the Communication Impaired (RCCI) in Colombo.After seeing the excellent work being done by the students, ably guided by committed staff, the GMM presented a generous cheque for LKR 100,000 (£230) on behalf of the Scottish Masons in Sri Lanka to the Centre. The RCCI is Sri Lanka's first dedicated rehabilitation centre and school for children and adults with communication disabilities.

• We have now reached the milestone of 1900 Overseas Members. We congratulate Brother Shashank Karvekar, Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, DGL of India, who is the 1900th member to join from our Lodges overseas. In addition, new members were welcomed this week from Lodge Forman, No. 1066 (India) and Lodge Sir William Wallace, No. 868 (Western Australia Goldfields District).

• Additional members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. This week special reference is made to Brethren joining from Lodges governed by the GL of the Philippines, GL of Pennsylvania, United GL of Victoria, and the GL of Tasmania.

I haven’t received a report yet, but I am sure that there would have been a very successful Rededication meeting in Lodge Pioneer last Saturday. Sincere thanks to all involved in the organisation of the day.

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 Kalgoorlie, Western Australia

The Consecration and Installation Ceremonies in Colombo went well. I was assisted in the ceremonies by our Substitute Grand Master, Brother Alexander Moncrieff, Assistant Grand D of C, Brother George Donnelly, Brother Commander Russell Kerkovan (Acting Grand SW), Brother Heshan Peiris (Acting Grand JW), Brother Nihal Fonseka (Acting Grand IG) and Brother Jacques Huyghebaert who provided the music throughout the Ceremonies.

On Sunday morning we attended the Church Service in the local Scots Kirk where we received a very warm welcome.

That night I flew to Singapore where I transferred onto a flight to Perth and from there to Kalgoorlie.

On Tuesday morning I was taken to the ABC broadcasting studio where I was interviewed for the local morning programme. From there, Brother Arthur Anderson drove me to Coolgardie where we visited the site of the former Lodge in the town, the local museum, the cemetery and Finnerty House. Finnerty House was built in 1895 for the West Australian Government to house the resident Warden/Magistrate, John Michael Finnerty and his family. The house was built by Robert and Arthur Bunnings, the original owners of Bunnings Hardware which any of our readers will recognise if they have ever visited Australia.

On Wednesday morning I had the honour, at Pringle Village, of unveiling a new plaque to mark the start of the new phase of the Masonic Homes project. This must rate as the most exciting programme in any Scottish Province or District. Spearheaded by Brother Douglas Daws and his committee, a further 140 homes are to be built in the coming year providing beautiful accommodation for elderly brethren as well as the general public. There will also be a Community Centre offering all possible activities and services.

Wednesday evening, I was delighted to welcome Grand Secretary who arrived, just in time, to attend a Civic Reception held in my honour by the Mayor of Kalgoorlie.

The temperature since I arrived in Kalgoorlie has been between 40 and 44 degrees – a wee bit warmer than the Black Isle. Yesterday, it was slightly cooler when Brother Matt Ekins called to collect Grand Secretary and I to give us a tour of two of the local Gold Mines. It was an incredible day during which Bro Ekins explained in detail the process of mining gold. In the morning we stood 30 or 40 metres above ground on top of the machinery used to break gold carrying rocks down into smaller manageable pieces. We followed the process all the way through to watch the gold being poured. Later that afternoon we were taken underground into the gold mine and at one point were 1300 metres below ground. An absolutely wonderful and educational experience. Grand Secretary and I were allowed to hold a newly-forged gold ingot worth approximately $1,500,000. It was thereafter placed in the safe.

On Thursday night we attended a lecture on Australian VC holders linked to Freemasonry. An excellent presentation enjoyed by all. Today we have a full itinerary involving meetings and a visit to a local museum and attendance at a MM Degree in the evening.

On Saturday, I will install the new DGM of Western Australia Goldfields, Brother Arthur Anderson.

SCFS

 
  • It is encouraging that within the group membership of over 7000 brethren, a significant number are actively involved in regularly commenting positively on and engaging with the published posts.
  • This week saw the total examples of charitable giving recorded within the group rise to 1567, submitted by 452 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 428 Lodges, from within 59 of its Provincial Grand Lodges, District Grand Lodges, Superintendencies and Lodges abroad under the direct supervision of Grand Lodge. 
  • During the week posts were submitted by group members representing the Province of Linlithgowshire.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,090,747.

SCFS Overseas Report

 

A unique and interesting post from the District of India has been published. Brother Capt. Parth Dawda, Secretary, Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, has advised that a cast iron funeral stand for the deceased has been adapted in such a way that the required wooden logs are reduced … resulting in a 50% reduction on the cost to buy the wood for every individual’s last rites and making them more environmentally friendly. The role of Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, was to find the right beneficiary town, a good quality with cost efficient supplier and, lastly, arranging the funds for charity among the brethren, all of which was successfully completed.

  • The Lodge from which most new members joined this week was Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, India, and thanks is extended for that support. 
  • Now, with a combined total of over 3600 members from our Lodges Overseas and from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS, news of the support given to others by Scottish Constitution brethren is certainly being spread widely. 

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 Colombo, Sri Lanka

Following on from last week’s report, the Installation Convocation of Chapter Camellia No 871on Friday night was expertly carried out by the District Grand Scribe E, MEC Noshir Paghdiwalla. During the following Banquet, it transpired that I was the first GMM to visit Munnar. It was also pointed out that this year marked 120 years since the Masonic Temple was opened. That being the case, it was agreed that on the Saturday night, we’d start a bit earlier than planned and that I would rededicate the building. I was assisted by Assistant Grand D of C, Bro George Donnelly, Brother Noshir Paghdiwalla, Bro Kersi Commissariat and Bro Farokh Chinoy. The additional ceremony was greatly appreciated after which we enjoyed the Installation in Lodge Heather No 928.

We returned to Mumbai on the Sunday and next morning held a rehearsal for the Re-Installation of Brother Kersi J Limathwalla. The Ceremony proper started at 18.30 on Monday evening. Over 100 Brethren assembled including Deputations from The District Grand Lodge of India (EC), the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ireland and the District Grand Lodge of India. After the following Banquet, Brother Donnelly and I returned to the hotel, got changed and headed to the airport for an 03.10 flight to Colombo. However, the flight was delayed for three hours, and we didn’t arrive until almost 09.00 on Tuesday morning.

That night we had a welcome dinner at the Colombo Club. On Wednesday morning we had the first rehearsal for the Consecration of the Superintendency and the Installation of the Grand Superintendent. 

Yesterday I had a morning meeting with three of the senior Brethren in the new Superintendency followed by lunch hosted by the Irish Brethren. In the afternoon we conducted the 2nd full rehearsal and last night enjoyed a barbeque at the home of Brother Nihal Fonseka and his charming wife Rhuna.

Today I will be visiting several charities supported by the Scottish Brethren and tomorrow we will consecrate the new Superintendency and thereafter install the new Grand Superintendent.  

SCFS


  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7061 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 1565, submitted by 452 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 428 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, Galloway, Inverness-shire, Lanarkshire Middle Ward, Linlithgowshire, Perthshire East, Renfrewshire West and The Scottish Borders.
  • The total identifiable monetary value of the contributions now recorded has risen to £3,089,517.

SCFS Overseas Report

We are grateful to Brother Edwin Pineda, Lodge Perla del Oriente, No. 1034, in the Philippines, Far East, who shared news of a wonderful donation from the Lodge of over £750 to the Tzu Chi Charitable Foundation which aims to support four major areas: Charitable Services, Medical Services, Educational Services, and Cultural Services. 

  • Now with 1897Overseas Members, we are approaching our 1900th member from our Lodges abroad. This week particular mention must be made to Lodge Energy, No. 1760, South Africa, Central South Africa,Lodge Unity, No. 1611, Kenya, East Africa, Lodge Al Moghreb al Aksa, No. 670, Gibraltar, and Lodge Han Yang, No. 1048, South Korea, Far East. 
  • Additional members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodges which are under UGLE (Gibraltar, North Wales). 

We would encourage our Overseas Lodges and Districts to continue sharing news of their support of others by sending posts to the SCFS group. 

My sincere thanks to the Brethren of our District in India. The welcome, hospitality, kindness, and friendship received were of the highest order. It was a privilege to be with you.

Brother Moncrieff, SGM, would also like to convey his sincere thanks to the Brethren of Lodge Rothes No 532 for their welcome and kindness. It was greatly appreciated.

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 busy week – the Tri-partite meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday after which I headed off to Edinburgh Airport to catch the afternoon London flight to connect with the over-night flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai. Also on board was Brother George Donnelly, Proxy DGM of India. He will also be assisting me, carrying out his duties as Assistant Grand D of C, both in India and in Sri Lanka.

We arrived in Mumbai yesterday morning where we were greeted by Bro Kersi Limathwalla, DGM, Bro Bomi Methu, Past DGM and Bro Noshir Paghdiwalla, District Grand Secretary. Unfortunately, Bro Donnelly’s luggage decided to stay with British Airways in London. We were taken to a delightful restaurant at the racecourse where we enjoyed a traditional Indian Lunch along with Bro Kersi Commissariat, his wife and daughter before heading to the Trident Hotel. 

From there we made our way to the Mumbai Masonic temple where we met some of the District Grand Lodge staff, including Swapmali and Shiraz, two delightful ladies who assist Bro Paghdiwalla run the District. We also took advantage of having a run through the ceremony with the DGM while in the main Temple – a useful exercise before the actual Installation.

In the evening we joined senior Office-bearers and enjoyed a traditional Indian meal.

This morning, after an early breakfast, we left the hotel at 07.30 to catch a flight to Cochin, followed by a 4-hour drive to Munnar where tonight we will attend the Installation Convocation of Chapter Camellia No 871

SCFS

 
  • The Scottish Constitution Freemasonry Supports Facebook Group was created in May 2020 to provide a means for Brethren, Lodges, Districts, Provinces, and other Overseas Lodges operating under the Grand Lodge of Scotland to share the support being provided both at home and abroad. 
  • 145 weeks later another significant milestone has been reached with a total of £3,080,823 examples of support, both monetary and in kind, being recorded within the group. Many examples of the diverse range of support, both large and small, have in recent years been published in the Grand Lodge Year Books, including the 2023 edition which is now available from Grand Lodge.
  • The Group saw its membership rise to 7051 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 1549, submitted by 448 of its members.
  • These updated contributions can now be attributed as to being made on behalf of 426 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 Forfarshire, Glasgow, Linlithgowshire, Inverness-shire and Perthshire West.

SCFS Overseas Report

As posted by Brother George Rogers, PDGM, Western Australia, a very sizeable donation (£5,800) has been made on behalf of the Scottish Masonic Charitable Foundation of WA, the DGL and the Daughter Lodges, to another very worthwhile charity, this time to the “Lions Cancer Institute”. This money will go towards the running costs of its Screening Bus which provides free cancer screening to people living outside the Perth area.

  • Now with 1893 Overseas Members, we are approaching our 1900th member from our Lodges abroad. This week particular mention must be made to Al-Arz, No. 1853, Lebanon, Lodge Tullibardine in the East, No. 1118, Malaysia, Middle East, Lodge Golden Feather, No. 855, Western Australia, Goldfields District, and Lodge Royal Jubilee, No. 742, India, for adding to that total.  
  • Additional members were also approved from Lodges whose Grand Lodges are in amity with the GLoS. This week we welcomed Brethren from Lodges which are under UGLE, GL of Michigan, GL of India, and the United Grand Lodges of Germany.

 We would encourage our Overseas Lodges and Districts to continue sharing news of their support of others by sending posts to the SCFS group. 

My sincere thanks to the Brethren of Lodge St David (Tarbolton) Mauchline 133 for a tremendous day celebrating their 250th anniversary – the welcome and hospitality was second to none. Likewise, our Depute Grand Master, Brother Bud Gauld, has asked me to convey his grateful thanks to the Brethren of Lodge Panmure 299. The visit to Arbroath was his first as DGM and he did a fantastic job. Congratulations to Bud and his team.

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

 

Ramsay McGhee

Grand Master Mason

 
 
 
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