News
News from the Southern Counties of England
October 2023 Regular Meeting
On Saturday 21st October the Brethren assembled at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham for the next regular meeting of the Province.
The meeting was opened by Bro. Roy Leavers, the Provincial Grand Master. On this occasion, the Province welcomed Bro Charles Stoddart, Provincial Grand Master for the South East Counties.
Bro Scott Brown was then Advanced and Promoted in the Order. The ceremony was undertaken, in excellent form, by Bro Roy Leavers, PGM and his Officers.
The Provincial Grand Master then thanked Bro John Macray who had stood in as Provincial Secretary at very short notice.
After a very pleasant lunch, the Brethren parted into the wet October afternoon.
On this occasion, there were three present or past Grand Directors of Ceremonies attending the meeting:
- Bro Tim Wheeler, Great Marshal in the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St. John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta
- Bro Roy Leavers, Past Grand Director of Ceremonies in the Order of the Secret Monitor
- Bro David Seeman, Grand Director of Ceremonies in the Order of Royal and Select Masters
These three Worthy Brethren are in the image above.
We are delighted to announce that on Friday 8th September at St. Albans, Bro. John Macray was appointed and invested as Substitute Provincial Grand Master for the Provincial Grand Lodge of Hertfordshire. It is a thoroughly well-earned and merited appointment.
Visit to Provincial Grand Lodge of Dorset
On a warm Saturday 12th August, five members of Southern Counties PGL traveled to Kinson Masonic Centre, Bournemouth to attend the installation meeting of the Province of Dorset.
Those attending from Southern Counties were:
Bro. Phillip Purves (Dep. PGM)
Bro. Tony Chaplin (Sub. PGM)
Bro. Tim Read (Sub. PGM)
Bro. Tom Batten (PGSW)
Bro. Mark Hoare (PGJW)
Approximately 60 Brethren attended, including the PGMs for S.E. Counties, Devon, Hampshire, and the PGM designates for South West Counties and Hertfordshire. Unlike last year, the air-conditioning in the Temple was functioning; given the warmth of the day and the number in the Temple, this was most welcome.
We witnessed the Advancement and Promotion of two Candidates executed very pleasingly, led by Bro Paul Muir, PGM for Dorset. Unusually, the floor at Kitson isn’t carpeted but tiled - this means that perambulations are accompanied by gentle clicking sounds where some of the tiles have become loose.
After the meeting, there was ample opportunity to renew old friendships and make new ones and a most enjoyable festive board followed.
Installation and Bannockburn Meeting June 2023
On Saturday 17th June the Brethren assembled at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham for the next regular meeting of the Province.
The meeting was opened by Bro. Roy Leavers, the Provincial Grand Master. On this occasion the Province welcomed Bro Dick Oliver, Past SubPGM for Middlesex and Bro David Michael, SubPGM for Gloucester and Hereford.
Bro Paul Glynn Wootten was then Advanced and Promoted in the Order. The ceremony was undertaken, in a very well executed manner, by Bro Roy Leavers, PGM and his Officers. Having welcomed Bro Paul into the Order Bro Roy Leavers then thanked all who had assisted, particularly Bros. Paul Jenkins and Graham Redman, who had stood in at short notice.
The Provincial Grand Master, Bro Roy Leavers then undertook the installation ceremony firstly by thanking those Officers who were stepping down, in particular the excellent service given by Bro John Macray. The Provincial Grand Master then Appointed and Invested his Officers for the coming year.
Bro Graham Redman, the Provincial Grand Master of Ceremonies, then explained and presented three diplomas in his usual informative manner.
After the meeting the Brethren gathered for a very convivial lunch. This was followed by the adrdress to Robert Bruce which was given by Bro. Roy Leavers, Provincial Grand Master ; Bro Tom Batten, Provincial Senior Grand Warden and Bro. Mark Hoare, Provincial Junior Grand Warden. This was the first time that the address had been given since 2017 and it was well received by those present.
Bro Tim Read, SubPGM; Bro Roy Leavers, PGM, Bro Paul Wootten , Bro Philip Purves, DepPGM, Bro Tony Chaplin SubPGM
Visit to the Installation meeting of the Province of Middlesex
On Saturday 13th May, Bro Roy Leavers, Provincial Grand Master of Southern Counties attended the Installation meeting of the Province of Middlesex at the Harrow District Masonic Centre.
Starting at 10:00 am, the meeting was well attended, including Bro Ewan Rutherford, Deputy Grand Master and Governer, accompanied by other members of the Delegation from Grand Lodge; Bro Charles Stoddart, PGM for SE Counties and Bro Kevin Parkes, PGM for Warwickshire.
The PGM led his team in an excellent ceremony which saw three candidates Advanced and Promoted into the Order. At the conclusion of the ceremony Bro Ewan Rutherford, the Deputy Grand Master and Governor, welcomed the new members into the Order.
Bro Ewan Rutherford, Deputy Grand Master and Governor, then took the Chair to carry out the ceremony of Installation for Bro Keith Evans as Provincial Grand Master in a most exemplary manner. The newly installed PGM then installed and invested Bro Douglas Hopton as Deputy PGM and Bro Rhys Madoc as Substitute PGM.
After the meeting the Brethren gathered for a most enjoyable meal and Bro Ewan Rutherford gave a warm and entertaining response to the Toast to the Deputy Grand Master and Governor.
Bro Roy Leavers, PGM for Southern Counties; Bro Charles Stoddart, PGM for SE Counties; Bro Douglas Hopton, Deputy PGM for Middlesex; Bro Ewan Rutherford, DGM&G; Bro Keith Evans, PGM for Middlesex; Bro Kevin Parkes, PGM for Warwickshire, Bro Rhys Madoc, Sub PGM for Middlesex and Bro Raymond King, Grand Marischal
The regular meeting of the Province held at Sindlesham in February 2023
The February meeting of the Province was held at the Berkshire Masonic Centre in Sindlesham on Saturday 18th February 2023.
The Lodge was honoured with the presence of:
Bro J Charles Stoddart, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for the South Eastern Counties of England; accompanied by his Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Bro Jack Love, and four further members of his Province
Bro Carl Davies, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for South Wales
Bro Ronald Bridger, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for The Cotswolds; accompanied by his Deputy Provincial Grand Master Bro Alastair Milne and other members of his Province
Bro Graham King, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Gloucestershire & Herefordshire
Bro Malcolm Slater, Past Provincial Grand Master, was in attendance after recovering from a serious road traffic accident; along with Bro Graham Redman, Past Provincial Grand Master, who discharged the duties of Provincial Senior Grand Warden.
The Province was blessed with an excellent attendance of our Greek Brethren.
Over sixty Brethren were in attendance.
The following Brethren
- Bro. Charalampos Moraitis;
- Bro. Stylianos Pettas;
- Bro. Christos Pouris;
- Bro. Michael Frederick Sanders
were Advanced into Provincial Grand Chapter and subsequently promoted into Provincial Grand Lodge.
The Provincial Grand Master thanked all the Brethren who had discharged their various duties with considerable skill and aplomb to the joy of all the Candidates and Brethren present.
This being the first meeting that Bro John Prizeman, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master, had attended since his appointment, obligation and installation as Pro Grand Master for the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons by M W Bro His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, Grand Master, the Provincial Grand Master rose and congratulated Bro John on the very high honour to which he had been conferred. The Brethren then rose and congratulated Bro John in the time honoured manner with prolonged and sustained spontaneous applause to which he duly responded.
After the close of the meeting the Brethren adjourned to the Flavell Suite, where they enjoyed a splendid Harmony; Bro John Machray addressing the Haggis in his captivating manner. Also in attendance at the Harmony was R W Bro Anthony Howlett-Bolton, Provincial Grand Master for the Craft Province of Berkshire. R W Bro Anthony Howlett-Bolton was presented with a donation from the Province of £2000 towards his the Berkshire 2023 Craft festival.
A happy and successful meeting came to a close at 3:30.
October 2022 Meeting of the Province
The October meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge was held at the Berkshire Masonic Centre in Sindlesham on Saturday 18th October 2022.
The following brethren were guests of the Province:
Bro. Charles Stoddart Provincial Grand Master South Eastern Counties
Bro. Paul Muir Provincial Grand Master Dorset
Bro. Trevor Barrett Provincial Grand Guarder, Dorset
Bro. Provincial Grand Steward, Dorset
Bro. Alistair Stewart Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire
Bro. Neil Coleman, South Eastern Counties
Bro. Ray Bennett, Past Provincial Grand Maraschel Gloucester and
Hereford
After opening Provincial Grand Chapter The Right Worshipful Tirshatha, Bro Roy Leavers, rose to impart the news of the sad loss of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, a great loss to our United Kingdom and the commonwealth. The Right Worshipful Tirshatha then requested that Brethren all rise and pay tribute to this sad loss.
The Right Worshipful Tirshatha then gave a eulogies in respect of the sad loss of Bros. Bakewell, Dyke and Sanders.
Bro. Tony Harrold presented a Substitute Provincial Grand Master’s collar to Bro. Tony Chaplin in memory of Bro. Ken Iball.
Bro. Stephen Rae Campbell and Bro. Stuart John Hogarth were then advanced and promoted into the order in a most pleasing and sincere manner.
The Brethren then agreed to a proposal from the Treasurer that a sum totalling £4,700 should be distributed to the Craft Festival appeals for Berkshire 2023 and Hampshire 2027 and three Hospices within the area
After the close of the meeting thebBrethren retired to the Oakley room for lunch which was enjoyed amid pleasant company.
PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE of
THE SOUTHERN COUNTIES OF ENGLAND
Friday 9th September 2022
From the Provincial executive and Past executives
Dear Brethren, yesterday we all heard the devastating news that we had lost our Queen, an inevitable consequence of the race that is set before us.
Queen Elizabeth II upheld all the values that we as freemasons hold dear to our hearts. She was an inspiration not only to her subjects but to so many around the world and will be missed.
Brethren, we will all remember her with fondness and admiration for her grace and her dedicated duty to her subjects.
This is a time for us to draw strength from our belief in the Christian faith
God Bless her.
(image copyright PA News)
Congratulations
The Province is delighted that on the 13th September, at Great Queen Street, Bro John H Prizeman, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master, Provincial Grand Chaplain, will be appointed as Pro Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons, by M W Bro HRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO, Grand Master. It is a thoroughly well earned and deserved appointment.
Our Greek Brethren
From the beginning of 2019 until today, despite the suspension of meetings due to the Pandemic, a small but dynamic group of new Brethren from Greece, all members of the United Grand Lodge of England, have been Advanced and Promoted into our Province. Six Greeks have been admitted into our Province and three more candidates are to join at the February 2023 meeting.
All our Greek Brethren are excited on the one hand for the honour of becoming members of this historic and venerable Masonic order, and on the other hand for the high quality of the ceremonies they have participated in to date. Although the costs of transportation from their various places of residence in Greece to England and their accommodation are high, the enthusiasm is undiminished and they are already planning their next trip in February 2023.
All the present members are very active Masons in various Masonic orders and some of them hold high offices in English and Greek Freemasonry.
In the summer season that we are spending, most of them are enjoying their holidays with their families and beloved Brethren and some, due to circumstances, continue to work hard.
All of them send their warmest wishes to the Brethren of our Province and their families and invite you to beautiful Greece in the near future to enjoy together its traditions, the sun, sea and the unimaginably delicious local specialties.
Top row from left to right:
Bro Nikos Mazis & his beloved wife Katerina in the gardens of their hotel "Saint Nicholas" in Gouvia, Corfu; Bro John Kardassopoulos; Bro Pantelis Petropoulos; Bro ENF constructed a 3.2 km long bridge in Morocco.
Bottom row from left to right:
Bro Eddie Kalogeropoulos with future ROS candidates Bros Spyros Louvros & Christos Louvros on BBQ night; Celebrating with their wifes; Bro George Poulimenos with the Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Germany (York Rite) Martin Spanier on summer holidays in Corfu
Visit to the Installation meeting of the Province of Dorset on Saturday 13th August 2022
On Saturday 13th August 2022, Bro Roy Leavers, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, travelled to Kinson Masonic Hall, Kinson which is on the outskirts of Bournemouth. Just before 10.00am the Brethren entered the beautiful Masonic Temple and took their seats. As it was the Installation Meeting the Temple was full. However the day was one of the hottest days in the current heat wave; and the air conditioning was not working!! The doors to the Temple were left open, but alas not even the consolation of a cooling sea breeze was available.
It was an absolute privilege to be in attendance and bear witness to Bro Paul M Muir, Provincial Grand Master, designate, and assisted by Officers of the Province Advance and Promote Brethren into the Order. It was to the delight of both Candidates and Brethren.
After which Bro Ewan Rutherford, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor, installed Bro Muir as Provincial Grand Master in a most befitting manner.
At the conclusion of the days proceedings the Brethren enjoyed an excellent Masonic Banquet in the Dining Suite, in which, to the delight and comfort of all, the air conditioning was working.
Visit to the Installation at the Province of Gloucester and Herefordshire on 27th July
Bro Roy Leavers, R W Provincial Grand Master, represented the Province at the installation of Bro Graham King as Provincial Grand Master for Gloucestershire & Herefordshire on Wednesday 27th July 2022 at The Masonic Hall at Newham on Severn. The Masonic Temple was full for the meeting which was opened by Bro James Bartlett, Provincial Grand Master.
After the many guests were introduced, and upon a report, the Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor, Bro Ewan Rutherford, attended by Officers of Grand Lodge was admitted and took his rightful place in the East.
To the joy of all present Bro Bartlett conducted the ceremonies of Advancement and Promotion into the Order to duly qualified Brethren. After which the Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor installed Bro Graham King as Provincial Grand Master in a delightful ceremony of enthronement to the joy of all present. Bro Graham then appointed, obligated and invested his Officers for the year.
All present then enjoyed a most agreeable Festive Board and departed the building with many happy memories of an excellent meeting.
A visit to the Province of Warwickshire on Saturday 9th July 2022
On Saturday 9th July 2022 Bro Roy Leavers, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, accompanied by Bro John Machray, Substitute Provincial Grand Master and Bro Glen Coneley and Bro Tom Batten respectively Provincial Senior Grand Warden and Provincial Junior Grand Warden travelled to Erdington, Warwickshire. This was a re-arranged meeting as the Queens Jubilee festivities had caused the original meeting date of Saturday 4th July to be re-arranged. This also meant an early start as the Temple and facilities were required for another masonic meeting the same day. Having left home at a very early hour they arranged at the beautiful Erdington Temple and enjoyed the hospitality and friendship of so many like minded Freemasons.
The ceremonies of the Degree of Heredom and of the Rosy Cross were conducted with dignity and panache under the direction of Bro Kevin J Parkes, Provincial Grand Master, assisted by his Officers and Brethren to the joy of all present.
It was a pleasure for all present to bear witness to the ceremonies of Advancement and Promotion where Bro Kevin J Parkes, Provincial Grand Master, led the Officers of the Province with much dignity, style and panache.
Ensuring that the ceremony will live long in the memory of not only the candidate but all those present. After which the Provincial Grand Officers for the year were appointed, obligated and invested in a very sincere manner.
All later had a most enjoyable luncheon and a pleasurable journey home.
Kevin Parkes (PGM Warwickshire) and Roy Leavers (PGM Southern Counties)
Kevin Parkes, Roy Leavers and Friends
Kevin Parkes and his Officers
Visit to the Installation at the Province of Devonshire on 24th June
Bro Roy Leavers, R W Provincial Grand Master, together with Bro Glen Coneley, Provincial Senior Grand Warden, and Bro Tom Batten,Provincial Junior Grand Warden, travelled to the meeting of the Province of Devonshire on Friday 24th June at St Aubyn Masonic Hall, Plymouth for the installation of Bro Ian Hudson as Provincial Grand Master. Prior to his installation Bro Hudson assisted by his Officers conducted memorable ceremonies of the Heredom of Kilwinning in Provincial Grand Chapter and The Rosy Cross in Provincial Grand Lodge to the delight of the Candidate and Brethren in equal measure.
Bro Hudson was then installed as Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Devonshire by Bro Ewan Rutherford, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor, assisted by Officers of Grand Lodge in a most sincere and moving ceremony. After which Bro Hudson appointed, invested and installed his Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Substitute Provincial Grand Master and Officers for the year in an equally dignified and sincere manner.
The Brethren later partook of a most enjoyable meal.
Bro Leavers, Bro Coneley and Bro Batten left the Province of Devonshire having made many new Masonic friends and once again met old friends; with very many happy memories.
June 2022 Meeting of the Province
Provincial Grand Lodge held their June “Bannockburn” meeting on a sultry Saturday 18th June 2022 at the Berkshire Masonic Centre in Sindlesham.
The Lodge was honoured with the presence of five Provincial Grand Masters:
Bro Kevin Parkes, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Warwickshire
Bro Christopher Weeks, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Middlesex
Bro J Charles Stoddart, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for the South Eastern Counties of England
Bro Ian Tough, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Kent
Bro James Bartlett, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Gloucestershire & Herefordshire
After the opening of Provincial Chapter, the Brethren listened to a moving eulogy in respect of Bro Kenneth Iball, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master, from Bro Anthony Tykocki, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master. After which all and then stood in reverence to departed merit.
The Brethren of the Province unanimously voted in favour of:
Bro Rev Simon Walsh as a Joining member
And for Advancement and Promotion into the Order
Bro Petrica Mihai Platon and Bro Anthony Graham Shepherd
Bro Platon and Bro Shepherd were then advanced and promoted into the order to their delight and also all those present.
The Provincial Grand Master then appointed and invested his officers for the coming year. Of particular note was the promotion of Bro John Machray to Substitute Provincial Grand Master. Bro John was warmly praised for all his hard work during his time as Secretary; and was succeeded by Bro. Ian Wright as Provincial Secretary.
The Provincial Grand Master addressed the Brethren (A copy of which is shown on the website) - thanking various Brethren for their support during the last year. He also congratulated the newly appointed Officers and also announced that Bro. Tony Chaplin will be taking on the role of Webmaster for the Province. The Provincial Grand Treasurer subsequently gave a notice of motion that at the next regular meeting of the Province, in October, he would be proposing donations to local charities.
After the close of the meeting the Brethren retired to the Oakley room for lunch which was enjoyed amid pleasant company and the obligatory demonstration of Southern Counties’ unique “Windsor Fire”.
A happy and successful meeting came to a close at 3:15.
Further photographs from the meeting maybe found here
Rear (L-R) Bro James Bartlett, Bro Christopher Weeks , Bro Ian Tough
Front (L-R) Bro J Charles Stoddart, Bro Kevin Parkes
Bros Glen Coneley, Roy Leavers and Tom Batten
Senior Warden, Provincial Grand Master and Junior Warden
Bro Petrica Mihai Platon, The Provincial Grand Master, Bro Roy Leavers and Bro Anthony Shepherd
Grand Directors of Ceremonies
The Province of the Southern Counties of England has been fortunate to have, or has had, amongst the membership several Grand Directors of Ceremonies. Currently the Province has two serving Grand Directors of Ceremonies, Bro Graham Seeman, Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden, the Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Royal and Select Masters and Bro Phillip Purves, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, the Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Ancient and Masonic Order of the Scarlet Cord.
The following Brethren of the Province have also served as Grand Directors of Ceremonies:
Bro Brigadier Geoffrey L Galloway, DSO, OBE, GM, Past Provincial Grand Master, Grand Director of Ceremonies for the Allied Masonic Degrees
Bro Brian C Wareham, Past Provincial Grand Master, Grand Marshal for the Red Cross of Constantine and the Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist
Bro Ian S Currans, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master, Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Order of the Secret Monitor
Bro Roy W Leavers, Provincial Grand Master, Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Order of the Secret Monitor
Address to the Brethren at Provincial Grand Lodge on Saturday 18th June 2022
Brethren it is right and proper that at our Installation Meeting I should address you.
I must at once thank the outgoing Provincial Officers for the manner in which they discharged their respective duties. You all set the highest of standards in the delivery of ritual, which re-enforced to all present the beauty and importance of the Order. It undoubtedly left a lasting impression on our Candidates. To the Officers appointed and invested today you have the complete confidence and support of all in the Province. Your
abilities are well known and appreciated and all we ask is that you enjoy your respective duties over the coming year. I particularly welcome Bro Ian Wright as our Provincial Grand Secretary. I know that he will be a pillar of support.
I wish to bring to the attention of the Province the hard work of and the support that I received from Bro Phillip, my Deputy. He is a very busy Freemason yet he has never let us down. Thank you Phillip so much for your wise advice and guidance. To Bro Tony Chaplin, Substitute Provincial Grand Master and Bro Tony Harrold, who has today stood down as a Substitute Provincial Grand Master. Both quietly have discharged the responsibilities that go with the Office. I particularly thank Bro Tony Harrold who has been a stalwart of this Province for many years. He has also been a great supporter of our Province in Scotland. He attends Grand Lodge so that our Province is always represented; and in addition he represents this Province at Provincial meetings in Scotland. I know that he will still be a very active supporter of the Province for many years to come.
I place on record my appreciation of all the hard work and commitment of our outgoing Provincial Grand Secretary. Bro John please enjoy your new role as Substitute Provincial Grand Master; the Provincial Treasurer for keeping us all financially within bounds; to our Auditors who diligently discharge their duties; and last but not least our Provincial Almoner for the kindness, support and consideration he extends to us all.
And of course to the Past Provincial Grand Masters, Past Deputy Provincial Grand Masters and Past Substitute Provincial Grand Masters whose advice, wise counsel and support has ensured, and will continue to ensure, the long term growth and prosperity of the Province.
Brethren I wish to bring to your attention some changes which are being brought about today. I hope that you will agree that these changes are for the benefit of the Province.
Bro Tony Chaplin will as of today take on the role of Webmaster; and take control of the website. This is a significant change as previously all work on our Website was undertaken by the Grand Secretary. Thank you Tony for the extra work that you will undertake for us; and I know that Grand Lodge are pleased that you have undertaken these duties.
Bro Tom Batten will become our ‘Provincial Photographer’. He will work with Bro Tony. Brethren a picture can greatly enhance an article; but I do understand that some Brethren may not wish their photograph to be published on the website. If this applies to you I respect your wish and I would ask that you quietly move aside.
These two appointments will ensure that our Website is kept up to date and becomes the ‘Living History’ of our Province. This can only be ensured if we assist Bro Tony and Bro Tom with articles.
The role of Bro Eddie, Provincial Grand Clerk, has, in consultation with Bro Ian Wright, our Provincial Grand Secretary, been defined. As of today all administrative matters relating to our Brethren that reside in Greece will be conducted by Bro Eddie. This will also include arranging transport from Greece to England, Hotel accommodation, distribution of Summonses, collating articles for the website, communications from the Province and any other matter as so desired by the Provincial Grand Secretary. This will greatly ease the Administration.
Today our Provincial Grand Treasurer gave ‘Notice of Motion’ for the distribution of funds from our Charity Account. I, of course, acknowledge the contributions you and our Guests make at our meetings. I have asked Bro Glen Coneley to look at other methods of raising funds for Charity, away from our meetings which also at the same time bring together our Members, families and friends. Brethren the current way that we raise funds at our meetings will remain unchanged. Bro Glen has some thoughts that he is working upon and in due course I and my Deputy, Substitutes and Provincial Grand Secretary will meet with Glen and then make recommendations to the Provincial Executive Committee.
Brethren I personally thank those members of the Province who, in their own time and expense, have joined with me in attending other Provincial meetings of our Order. Their attendance has been greatly appreciated in those Provinces, and of course by myself, Deputy and Substitutes.
In conclusion I thank you all for attending today in such good number and cheer. To our Guests thank you for all the support that you give us. We hope that you have enjoyed our meeting, and shortly our Harmony, and that you take back happy memories to your own Provinces as we do after visiting your Provinces; and we look forward to your company on a future occasion.
February 2022 meeting of the Province
As the day of our scheduled meeting at Sindlesham on Saturday 19th February 2022 drew closer so the enthusiasm at the prospect of being able to meet together once again, with all Covid restrictions to be removed within days of the meeting added to the air of expectancy. The enforced breaks had recharged batteries; the Province was focused and ready to resume its activities. Nothing surely could prevent a return to ‘Service as normal’ for our meeting. However Mother Nature had different ideas and on Friday 18th February Storm Eunice arrived on our shores. For once the full brunt of the storm, with winds of 122 miles per hour, was directed on the South West of England and sped through to the South East. The storm prevented some of our Brethren from attending, but not our Brethren, and candidates, from Greece. They arrived safely at Heathrow Airport on the Friday and were able to travel to their central London Hotel with ease. A relatively leisurely train service on the Saturday morning (when Storm Eunice had abated) ensured that they arrived at Paddington Station in ample time to travel to Sindlesham, have breakfast and enjoy the meeting. Sadly Storm Eunice had left a legacy in that all trains from London (Paddington) to the South West were in disarray. Their scheduled train was announced as cancelled, swiftly followed by the cancellation of all trains. Travel plans were hastily re-arranged and motor transport ensured that they arrived at Sindlesham shortly after the arranged start time. Matters were further complicated by the closure of part of the M4 motorway which also hindered members of the Province. Undaunted by such delays Provincial Grand Chapter was opened and our three Candidates were ‘Advanced’ into the Order; Provincial Grand Chapter was closed and Provincial Grand Lodge was then opened and the candidates were ‘Promoted’. After completing the Agenda Provincial Grand Lodge was closed and the Brethren retired for light refreshments followed by a wholesome meal; for which the starter was Haggis and a wee dram.
The Saturday meeting was certainly a day to remember for all and in particular our Candidates. The ritual enthralled the candidates and re-enforced to all the members the beauty and importance of the Order.
Christmas Message
As we look forward to Christmas it is an ideal time to reflect on what we, as a Province and as Christian Freemasons, have contributed to help and improve the lives of others less fortunate than us during the past year. As a Province we have made contributions to Macmillan Nurses and to many other worthy charitable causes. Perhaps the greatest contribution is with our fellow Brethren, families, friends and the wider community who found themselves alone, and in some cases in need, during the pandemic.
As we approach Christmas let us all individually and as a Province remember there are many less fortunate than ourselves. I am sure that the celebrations that we will enjoy will include Christmas lunches, the sending and receipt of Christmas cards, presents and of course being with our families and loved ones on Christmas day and our family banquets. If we reflect on the joy that gives to us then let us try and give some of this joy to a wider community. Let us think of those that are less fortunate than ourselves, those that are not able to be with there families and friends and those in need all of whom would be lifted by kindness. Contact with someone less fortunate than us does mean so much. If we build on the work that we have given during the pandemic we will help to ensure that those in need will not feel neglected and give them hope for the future.
As Brethren of the oldest Christian Order of Freemasonry and as we reflect on the last year we will recall times of sadness but let us not forget those times when we have achieved much both individually and as a Province. Neither should we forget we are preparing ourselves to celebrate the Birth of our Blessed Saviour during Advent. It is a time for Joy and Happiness, and there is so much Joy and Happiness that we can give to others.
As Freemasons our greatest challenge is to break free from all the commercialism of our festivities over Christmas. To remember Christmas is the time when we should rejoice in the Birth of our Saviour and not to forget those in need.
I wish every Brother of the Province every happiness and joy not only at Christmas but also in the future. May Christmas be a most inspiring time of the year, and always bring you good cheer. May this Christmas season bring you closer to all those that you treasure in your heart. Please take nothing for granted and be thankful that you have such a great family and friends to spend this joyous season with.
With every kind wish,
Roy Leavers
Provincial Grand Master
Installation Meeting
On Saturday 16th October 2021 at Sindlesham Masonic Centre, Berkshire nearly eighty Brethren were in attendance to witness the installation of the 15th Provincial Grand Master for the Province of the Southern Counties of England, Bro Roy W Leavers, by the Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor, Bro Ewan Rutherford, MIMI. Bro Rutherford was attended by Bro Alan Dickson, MBA, MAPM, Grand Secretary and Bro James H S Fraser, MIH, Deputy Grand Marischal. Also in attendance was the Grand Constable of the Tower, Bro Group Captain Barry Edward Dale.
Many more Brethren were sadly unable to attend as they were suffering from or because of Covid 19.
Provincial Grand Chapter having been opened the morning began when the Brethren gathered paid tribute to:
Bro Brian Wareham, Bro Raymond Yeowell, Bro Larry Harding and Bro Graham Cooper
and
All those Brethren, family members and friends
who had departed since the previous meeting of the Province on 15th February 2020.
Bro Michael Warner was then successfully balloted as a member of the Province and was advanced into the Order.
Provincial Grand Chapter was closed and Provincial Grand Lodge opened.
Bro Warner was then promoted into the Order. During which ceremony the Deputy Grand Master and Governor conferred the accolade on Bro Michael to the delight of all present. Bro Allan Dishington was then honoured by the Deputy Grand Master and Governor who presented him with his Grand Lodge Diploma.
The Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor in a most dignified and sincere ceremony according to the traditions of the Order, obligated, invested and installed Bro Leavers as Provincial Grand Master.
The 121st Psalm was sung.
The Provincial Grand Master then appointed, obligated and invested Bro Phillip Purves as Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Bro Anthony H Harold and Bro Tony R Chaplin as Substitute Provincial Grand Masters; and then appointed and invested the Officers for the year.
The Brethren sang the 100th Psalm, All People That on Earth do dwell.
At the conclusion of the Proceedings, Provincial Grand Lodge was closed. All the Brethren then joined together in a most excellent luncheon together with suitable wines.
More photographs from the event can be found here.
Presentation to Bro Ewan Rutherford,
Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor
After his installation as Provincial Grand Master for the Southern Counties of England at Sindlesham on Saturday 16th October 2021 Bro Roy W Leavers, on behalf of the Province, presented a Book, to Bro Ewan Rutherford, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor as a token of the very high esteem and respect in which he is held in the Province.
The book, ‘Robert the Bruce and the struggle for Scottish Independence’, was written by Sir Herbert Eustace Maxwell. Sir Herbert was a member of the Maxwell Clan; who under the then Clan Chief, Eustace Maxwell, fought alongside Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn. Sir Herbert was born on 8th January 1845. His correct title is Sir Herbert Maxwell, 7th Baronet of Monreith, KT, PC, JP, DL, FRS, FRG. He was educated at Eton and at Christ Church, Oxford; from where he graduated as a Doctor of Laws (LLD.) He is a former Captain in the 4th Battalion Royal Scots Fusiliers. From 1880 to 1906 he was a member of the House of Commons. During the period 1886 to 1892 (the administration of Lord Salisbury) he was a Lord Commissioner of the Treasury. The First Lord of the Treasury being the Prime Minister, the Second Lord of the Treasury being the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the four, or more Junior Lords of the Treasury are Government Whips. He was President of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland; Chairman of the National Library of Scotland; Chairman of Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS). In 1917 he was also awarded the Victoria Medal of Honour by the Royal Horticultural Society. Sir Herbert wrote many books on various subjects, including plants.
The Book presented to Bro Rutherford was first published in 1897. It is a comprehensive work on the reign of King Robert I. It includes an account of the early history of Scotland and the succession disputes of the late 1200s that in part led to Bannockburn. There is every reason to believe that this is a first edition which was specially bound for Sir Herbert. The book is also special in that it was presented as a school prize for merit. On the inside page it is inscribed, in manuscript, ‘Magdalen College School, Brackley, 3rd Mathematical Prize awarded to F N Bartlett July 28th 1898’. In addition, the book is bound in green leather and embossed with the Coat of Arms of Magdalen College School. It is also the coat of arms of Magdalen College, Oxford, itself the personal coat of arms of William Waynflete. He was Provost of Eton (1442–1447), Bishop of Winchester (1447–1486), Lord Chancellor of England (1456–1460), founder of Magdalen College. Beneath the Coat of Arms, there is a Latin inscription ‘Laborum Praemia’.
Sir Herbert died on 20th October 1937, aged 92 years. He was a man of great intellect and was highly respected. There are many pictures of him, the negatives of which are with the Victoria & Albert Museum in Kensington. More information can be found here.
Meeting of the Province, October 2021
Due to Covid-19, there have been no meetings of the Province since Saturday 18th February 2020. With the lifting of restrictions the next meeting of the Province will be held on Saturday 16th October 2021 at Sindlesham Masonic Centre at 10.30am.
At this meeting, the Province will be Advancing and Promoting a candidate into the Order. This will be followed by the installation of Bro Roy W Leavers as Provincial Grand Master by Bro Ewan Rutherford, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Governor; followed by the appointment and investiture of the Provincial Grand Officers for 2021 – 2022.
The Order of Proceedings, which also contains dining arrangements, is attached. A copy of which will be available for all those that attend on the day.
Order of Proceedings - October 2021
Those that Serve
Bro Lt Col Bruce Dyson, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master
The Province of the Southern Counties of England is blessed with many Brethren who, despite holding commitments in other Orders of Freemasonry, work quietly in the background. They do not seek prominence just the long term success and prosperity of the Province and the Order. These Brethren contribute in so many different ways which guarantee that we do not lose sight of the aims and wishes of our original Founders, and successors, so ensuring continuity. It enables us to embrace new technologies, maintains our traditions and standards whilst our happiness and enjoyment of the Royal Order of Scotland are undiminished.
This has been the case for many years with Brethren happily accepting anonymity safe in the knowledge that it is for the benefit of the Province and for the Brethren. It is right that those whose considerable commitment in other Orders of Freemasonry, coupled with the same quiet commitment and dedication that they give in the Southern Counties, are acknowledged. Currently, we have Brethren who gladly contribute yet their efforts are not appreciated or acknowledged as they are not fully known. That there are many is without dispute and it is intended that this will be the first of several articles highlighting those Brethren who achieve much and whose only reward has been personal satisfaction. It is a small and belated tribute, to those caring Brethren of our Province who put other people's needs and interests over their own. The acknowledgement of the Province is a sincere thank you for all that they have done and will doubtless continue to do.
Provincial Grand Masters on retirement continue to serve and have their own special section on this website and are not, therefore, included. I am sure they will be in total agreement with this sentiment.
Corinthians 1.13.4 states that ‘Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth, not itself, is not puffed up’ and these words ring so very true of Bro Lt Col Bruce S Dyson, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master. He is the epitome of an almoner. As a Province, we were blessed to have Bruce serve us in this capacity, even though he had commitments elsewhere. Being of a most convivial nature Brethren had no hesitation in speaking to Bruce in confidence about a Brother's need. Quietly and unassumingly he would do all that was expected of an almoner, and more. He fully embraced Corinthians 1.13.4 by persistently ensuring the welfare of our Brother. A phone call, whilst in itself is uplifting, was not enough for Bruce. He attended to not only the Brothers immediate need but also gave further attention until the matter was resolved. Once the Brother ‘Was in Bruce’s system’ he remained there. That he put in very many extra hours is not in dispute, neither are the untold benefits that resulted from Bruce’s undoubted compassion. These efforts were greatly appreciated. Bro Bruce has that wonderful ability to combine, compassion, care, duty and sympathy in the most sincere way. He has set the highest of standards as an almoner and is greatly respected.
The Province is indebted to Bro Bruce. Thank you.
