News
Warwickshire Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons
The latest issue of the Provincial Mark
Newsletter is
available here.
At the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge last year the Provincial Grand Master announced the formation of the Lodge Support Team set up and organised by W Bro Roger Sargent (pictured) to lend a helping hand to those Mark and RAM Lodges which may appreciate it.
The team comprises enthusiastic Mark and RAM Masons who are willing, at reasonable notice, and at their own expense, to attend Lodges in need of help, either just to boost numbers, or more likely to take an office when a vacancy occurs for whatever reason. Members of the team therefore have a good knowledge of the ritual.
One of the team's recent visits was to The Harry Wilson Royal Ark Mariner Lodge 1574, at the Installation of their new Commander, W Bro Jack Chetwynd, a lovely 78 year old man and mason. The picture includes Jack (on the right of W Bro Roger Mac, Deputy Provincial Grand Master & Presiding Officer), W Bro Roger Sargent, W P Cdr Graham Humphries (the installing Commander), and W P Cdr David Hopkins, the hard working Scribe of the Lodge, together with eight well known faces of the support team.
The evening was a great success, a happy, friendly atmosphere pervading throughout, with the work being carried out to the highest standard. Both the Presiding Officer and the Worshipful Commander thanked the Provincial Support Team for their attendance, and if all evenings are to be as enjoyable, Roger is eagerly awaiting the next request for help!
If you would like to join the team, please let Roger know. Full details and an application form can be seen on the Contacts page under the Support Team button.
Tel: 01530 273971 Email: sargentrw@btinternet.com posted 3 Mar 2010
More than 220 guests attended the spectacular Chinese Valentines Ball at Stirling Road organized by the Warwickshire Mark Social Committee, raising over £2,000 for the 2012 Festival Appeal. A full report can be seen in the latest Mark newsletter together with details of a variety of events including the Prestonian Lecture and Annual Meeting, as well as the forthcoming programme of events. posted 3 Mar 2010
Per Ardua Ad Dignitatem Meritam
"Through difficulties to a deserved status - the confluence of the Craft and the Mark" was the title of the Grand Stewards' Lecture for 2009, delivered by RW Bro Dr Roeinton BF Khambatta, PProvGM (London) at their meeting in July.
During his lecture, RW Bro Khambatta guided the audience through the fascinating journey of Mark Masonry from its early recorded days in the mid eighteenth century right through to the present day.
Pictured above are RW Bro Dr Roeinton Khambatta (left) with the present Warwickshire PGM RW Bro David Rawlins.
The Mark degrees were originally conferred within Craft Lodges and Royal Arch Chapters, and still are in Scotland, Ireland and other parts of the world. The growth of popularity in England during the nineteenth century gave rise to considerable activity at the highest levels in Masonic politics of the day, including an attempt to bring the Mark into mainstream freemasonry in 1856. This was partly to put an end to what some perceived as an encroachment of territory, and partly to appease those who felt the Mark should be an integral part of regular Masonry, in the same way as was the Royal Arch. But this was defeated on a technicality, in all probability to the great relief of committed Mark masons who did not wish to see the degree submerged.
Within just three weeks the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons was formed, with Lord Leigh, who was the then Craft Provincial Grand Master of Warwickshire, becoming the first Grand Master.
The inevitable controversy which followed initially rumbled on for quite some time, but progress was made, with the Grand Lodge of Ireland recognising the Mark and others following suit, in particular the Grand Lodge of Scotland which agreed to stop issuing its own Mark certificates to English candidates. Great efforts to achieve continued harmony were made by the Earl of Kintore, and followed through by his successor as Grand Master, the Prince of Wales, throughout the rest of the nineteenth century. These included aligning Mark Provinces and Districts with those of the Craft, and falling back on the Craft Constitutions in the event that any issue was not covered by the Mark Constitutions. Indeed, the first toast at Mark Lodges was for some time "The Queen and the Craft".
Although the United Grand Lodge of England never formally recognised the Mark, the membership of both Grand Lodges has always been intertwined. Every Grand Secretary of UGLE has been a Mark Mason, as have many other very senior members of the Craft. Finally, at the momentous occasion of the 150th Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons held at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006, the Grand Masters of both the Craft (HRH The Duke of Kent) and the Mark (HRH Prince Michael of Kent) stood together, as brothers in blood, and brothers in Masonry.
A printed copy of the lecture will be available shortly. posted 4 Aug 2009
'Mark Mason' Lifeboat Named and Dedicated
On 5th June, Provincial leaders from throughout England and Wales, including our Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro David Rawlins and Denise and the Deputy PGM, W Bro Roger Mac and Freda, (pictured left) joined in the celebrations in Pembrokeshire as Angle's new Tamar class lifeboat was named 'Mark Mason' by the Grand Master MW Bro HRH Prince Michael of Kent. The lifeboat was funded from a £1.6M donation from Grand Mark Lodge and by RNLI supporters in Pembrokeshire who donated over £400,000.
The ceremony was attended by many dignitaries including RNLI Chairman Admiral Lord Boyce, who accepted the new lifeboat on behalf of the RNLI Council. A service of dedication was led by the Team Vicar of Angle Parish Church, the Reverend Matthew Dobbs, and included music by Pembroke Silver Brass Band and Pembroke Choir.
Pictured is the MW Grand Master HRH Prince Michael of Kent at the helm of 'Mark Mason'.
The lifeboat was declared operational on 23 March 2009 and had already proved her worth prior to the naming ceremony, having launched on five rescue missions prior to then. Call-outs included escorting a fishing vessel taking on water, assisting a power boat with engine problems, searching for two missing boys and investigating a sighting of red flare.
Further details and photos can be seen on www.anglelifeboat.org. posted 4 Aug 2009
On Thursday 26th March 2009, VW Bro Ewart Percival James, PGJO, PProvGSW, celebrated his 50th year in Mark Masonry, having been Advanced into Silhill Lodge MMMs 972 in March 1959. To mark the occasion the Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro David JF Rawlins was in attendance together with 26 Active Provincial Officers, 25 members of the Lodge and 15 visitors, making in all a grand total of 67 Brethren. There was also a very well performed Advancement ceremony, adding to the enjoyment of this auspicious occasion.
The Provincial Grand Master presenting VW Bro Ewart James with his 50 year certificate
When presenting our worthy Brother with his Certificate, the PGM made reference to Ewart's unstinting service not only to the Lodge in general, but also to the Office of Almoner in particular which he had held for many years, resulting in Silhill Lodge being one of the highest contributors to the Warwickshire Mark Fund of Benevolence. Details of his business and private life were also mentioned which proved very interesting.
In conclusion the PGM gave details of events that had occurred in 1959, when Ewart was Advanced. Harold McMillan was Prime Minister - he whose election slogan was "You have never had it so good", Sir Winston Churchill's house was burgled - property was stolen amounting to £10,000. The Mini Car was rolling off the Production lines at a cost of £500 and Petrol cost 5 shillings (25p) a gallon (5p a litre).
The Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Eric J Rymer, GStwd, called the Brethren to Order, and VW Bro Ewart was duly saluted, which he suitably acknowledged.
Later at the Festive Board, Ewart was presented with a Wallet containing a sum of money which had been contributed by the Brethren of Silhill Lodge. posted 29 Jul 2009
The Warwickshire Installed Commanders' Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 1400 had a splendid meeting when W Bro J Stephen Wright, our Assistant Provincial Grand Master, was installed into the Commanders' Chair, followed by the dedication of a new banner for the Lodge. The beautiful, triangular banner was designed by Worshipful Past Commanders Roy Tidmarsh and Bill Podmore and embroidered by Mrs Anne Hall. It really is a delightful banner and can be viewed in Lodge Room 3 at Stirling Road. Our new Provincial Chaplain, W Bro Victor Keen delivered a truly inspiring oration which was heartily received by those present.
At the Festive Board, our Provincial Grand Master revealed the names of those Brethren who will be appointed to be Provincial Principal Officers at the Annual Meeting in November:
- W Bro Cliff Bull as Senior Warden
- W Bro Cedric Stiles as Junior Warden
- W Bro Ted Belcher as Master Overseer
- W Bro Malcolm Kinder as Senior Overseer
- W Bro Vernon Munton as Junior Overseer
Our hearty congratulations go to these worthy brethren, and we wish them every enjoyment during their year in office. posted 9 Jun 2009
The Mark Province of Warwickshire has a new Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Roger S Mac, who is well known throughout Warwickshire and beyond as a Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master in the Craft, as well as for his tireless work in helping bring about the improvements at Stirling Road. He has now accepted yet another challenge on which to focus his seemingly limitless energy and expertise, in which we all wish him every success and enjoyment.
He was Appointed, Invested and Installed as Deputy Provincial Grand Master by RW Bro David Rawlins, Provincial Grand Master, at the recent meeting of the Warwickshire Installed Mark Masters Lodge No 1400. The ceremony, held in the Main Temple at Stirling Road, was attended by over 150 enthusiastic Mark Masons from Warwickshire and other Provinces. Many more had expressed their regret that they could not be present on this historic occasion, but sent Roger their very best wishes.
The Provincial Grand Master took the Chair of the Lodge, and W Bro Roger was admitted to a loud fanfare on the organ, with enthusiastic applause from all present. He was escorted by six brethren representing his Lodge and Provincial links, and, in acknowledgement of the high esteem in which he is held, these included RW Bro Michael J Price, CBE, the Craft Provincial Grand Master for Warwickshire, and RW Bro Tony Morris, Provincial Grand Master for the Mark Province of Leicestershire and Rutland.
The ceremony went without a hitch, and at the end Roger was duly Proclaimed by the Director of Ceremonies, and was saluted for the first time as Deputy Provincial Grand Master for the Mark Province of Warwickshire. There will be many more opportunities to salute him as he performs his official duties in and around the Province in the years to come.
The meeting also included the Installation of W Bro Spencer T Fenn as Worshipful Master, who gave a most interesting presentation about the background and discussions with various parties culminating with the acquisition of our present London headquarters, Mark Masons' Hall, in St James's Street. posted 9 Jun 2009
Mrs Pam Sanders has asked us to let you know that a total of £1,160 was sent to Cancer Research in memory of W Bro Chris Sanders. She is most grateful to all who donated, and also wishes to thank all those who have supported her and the family during their bereavement. posted 12 May 2009
Funeral of W Bro Rodney Pitham
Following the sad news of the sudden death, on Sunday 26th April, of W Bro Rodney Pitham, PAGDC, the Provincial Grand DC for the Mark Province of Worcestershire and a Past Master of the Silhill Lodge of MMMs No 972, we can now let you know that his funeral will be held on Tuesday 5th May at St James the Great Church, at the junction of Stratford Road and Church Road, Shirley B90 2AX. The service will be at 2.00pm, followed by a private cremation for family only.
Family flowers only, but donations are invited in memory of Rodney to the Warwickshire Masonic Benevolent Fund (WMBF). Charity Office, 2 Stirling Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 9SB. (cheques payable to WMBF).
We understand that in his will W Bro Rodney asked that no black ties or dark suits be worn.
Refreshments will be available afterwards at the Solihull Masonic Temple, Warwick Road, Knowle. posted 5 May 2009
It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of W Bro Rodney Pitham, PAGDC, on Sunday 26th April at the age of only 64 years.
W Bro Rodney was well known to us all as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master in the Craft, and a very active Information Officer. However, he was also a very committed and enthusiastic Mark Mason. He was Master of the Silhill Lodge of MMM No 972 in 2003 and again in 2004.
In the Mark Province of Worcestershire, W Bro Rodney was an extremely competent and helpful Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies where his legal training provided him with an eye for detail.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, but our thoughts must be with his family at this time. posted 27 Apr 2009
The Funeral Service for RW Bro Stanley Lates will be held at St Alphege Church, Church Hill Road, Solihull B91 3RQ, on Monday 6th April 2009 at 2.00pm, followed by a private cremation.
Donations in memory may be made to the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys, c/o the Charity Office, 2 Stirling Road, Birmingham B16 9SB, or to the Parkinson’s Disease Society, c/o Thomas Bragg & Sons, 562 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull B90 4AY.
Family flowers only please. posted 31 Mar 2009
Appointments and Promotions in Grand Rank
We are pleased to announce that the MW Grand Master is to appoint or promote the following brethren of the Province in Grand Rank. These will be conferred at the Meeting of Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons on Tuesday 9th June 2009.
First Appointments:
- W Bro David H Liddington, P Prov GSW to PAGDC
- W Bro Philip Gough, P Prov GJW to PAGDC
- W Bro William (Bill) J Watts, P Prov GJW to PGStB
Promotions:
- W Bro Allan D Morris, PGSD to PGJO
- W Bro Michael D Arnold, PGSD to PGJO (recommended by Staffordshire & Shropshire)
- W Bro Spencer T E Fenn, PGJD to PGJO
- W Bro Anthony R Rudell, PAGDC to PGSD
- W Bro Roger S Mac, PAGDC, Dep Prov GM Designate to PGSD
- W Bro Andrew C Sweeney, PGStwd to GJD
We congratulate them all on their well deserved honours. As usual, the Social Committee will be organising group transport down to London on the 9th June for brethren who wish to share this special day. All Mark Masons are welcome to attend Mark Grand Lodge, which is held in the splendour of Freemasons' Hall, Great Queen Street. We always enjoy a very convivial day out with our Warwickshire Brethren. For further details call W Bro Peter R Harrison on 01543 262853 or email him via peter@windmillhouse.net. Full details will be included in the calendar when finalised. posted 28 Mar 2009
Warwickshire Installed Mark Masters Lodge No 1400
The forthcoming meeting of the Lodge on Thursday 30th April 2009 will be another milestone in the history of the province.
As well as W Bro Spencer T E Fenn being installed as Master of this important Lodge, those attending will be privileged to witness the appointment, investiture and installation of W Bro Roger S Mac as our Deputy Provincial Grand Master.
A copy of the summons, with details of those to be balloted for as joining members and a reply slip including the festive board menu can be obtained by e.mailing the Secretary, W Bro Mike Saxon: mikesaxon@3castles.nildram.co.uk.
All Mark Masons are welcome to attend meetings of this Lodge and it would make this meeting even more special if we have your company. posted 28 Mar 2009
The lifeboat featured in last year's Newsletter arrived at Angel on Wednesday. For latest details go to: http://www.anglelifeboat.org/news%20page.htm posted 28 Mar 2009
It is with regret that we must inform you that R W Bro Stanley Alan Lates, PGSW passed away during the morning of Sunday 22nd March at home.
A Past Provincial Grand Master of the Craft, and Past Grand Superintendent of the Royal Arch, R W Bro Stanley had been a Mark Mason for 59 years, having been Advanced into Concord Lodge of MMMs No 735 in October 1949. Her was also a Royal Ark Mariner of 40 years standing.
We will all have fond memories of R W Bro Stanley and will miss his presence with us. Our sympathies go to Rosemary and the family. posted 23 Mar 2009
W Bro John Edward (Jack) Smith, PProvGSW, has hit the local headlines in Stratford upon Avon, having achieved the magnificent age of 100. See the press cutting here.
He was Advanced into Shakespeare Lodge of MMMs 40 TI on 11th October 1960, and became WM in 1974. He was appointed PProvGReg in 1976, promoted to PProvGJW in 1981 and PProvGSW in 1993.
John was Elevated into Shakespeare Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 40 on 8th October 1963, but it appears he didn't enjoy it and resigned in 1967.
He was made an Honorary Member of Shakespeare Mark in 2004. Well done Jack, and just keep eating well! posted 3 Mar 2009
We are delighted to inform you that RW Bro David J F Rawlins, our Provincial Grand Master, has been pleased to appoint W Bro Roger S Mac, PAGDC, to be his Deputy Provincial Grand Master. He will be installed into this Office at the meeting of the Warwickshire Installed Mark Masters Lodge No 1400 on Thursday 30th April.
Advanced into The Harry Wilson Lodge of MMMs No 1574, Roger has been a stalwart of that Lodge for many years, as well as a member of WIMMs Lodge No 1400 and a Founder of the Ronald Albutt Lodge No 1818. He has served the Province in the active offices of Steward, Registrar, ADC and Master Overseer and, having been promoted to the rank of P Prov GSW in 2003, was appointed to the rank of PAGDC in 2004.
As a Royal Ark Mariner, Roger was Elevated into Rugby Lodge of RAM No 776 and seven months later became a Founder of The Harry Wilson Lodge of RAM No 1574. He was appointed to Prov RAM GR in 2004.
Roger is a Mark Mason to the core and has for many years supported our Provincial Mark events. With Freda at his side, he will be found at most social events, rolling up his sleeves and helping wherever needed.
We heartily congratulate Roger on his appointment, and offer every best wish for a happy time in this important office. posted 22 Feb 2009
On a cold and sunny afternoon, many memories of warmth and sincerity prevailed at the funeral of our Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Christopher Owen Sanders. Chris had fought the fight and led the battle against his ill-health for quite some time.
The Service, conducted by Canon Salt, was held in a packed Crematorium, filled by family, friends and Brethren, who heard about Chris’s life and personality, including his love of country pursuits, his family and his masonry. By a remarkable co-incidence a bright and perfect rainbow appeared beyond the panoramic windows, a fitting memory for everyone to cherish.
Chris’s contribution, support and efforts towards developing many aspects of Freemasonry, in particular the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Degrees, are and will continue to be legendary.
Our sincerest sympathies are extended to Pam and the family, who appeared relaxed, relieved and thankful at the after proceedings at Hillscourt Conference Centre. posted 17 Feb 2009
The second edition of “Welcome to the Mark” has now been published, and is incorporated in the first edition of the new-style, glossy, Craft Newsletter, distributed to all Masons in Warwickshire. It carries reports and pictures about the £3 million donation given by Mark Masons to the National Osteoporosis Society, our Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Mark Lodge, the Social Committee programme and events, and the magnificent demonstration given at the January meeting of Warwickshire Installed Mark Masters’ Lodge.
A copy of the PGM’s address to the Annual Meeting can be seen here.
The Social Committee are very pleased to have supported the Province by paying for the distinctive new portrait of the PGM, and to have provided funding to encourage support for the Lodge of Instruction Festival whereby all new Mark Master Masons advanced within the past 12 months are invited to attend completely free of charge. Application forms for this, and other events, can be downloaded from the Calendar page.
Click here to read “Welcome to the Mark”. posted 17 Feb 2009
A group of Mark Masons from Derbyshire are in the process of founding a Mark Scout Lodge, meeting three times each year in different Provinces. They are holding a meeting of Founders on Saturday 21st February, in Derbyshire. Full details can be found here. posted 17 Feb 2009
Charity Lodge MMM No. 430 hosted the Worcestershire Provincial Demonstration Team, who gave a magnificent presentation of the Mark Degree Tracing Board, with 3-D props of each and every one of the working tools and symbols incorporated within it. Very cleverly, each model has a small aide memoir attached to it, just to keep the members of the team on course.
At the meeting, the new portrait of our PGM RW Bro David Rawlins, seen here with WM Anthony Fine (on the left), which was artfully painted by W Bro Roy Tidmarsh, was officially unveiled, and received with acclaim by all present.
posted 17 Feb 2009
