Provincial News and Events for 2024
The news and events will appear in date order with the latest at the top.
Chingford Mark and RAM No.1252
Friday 20 September 24
Chingford
A bumper Mark & RAM meeting was held at Chingford Masonic Hall on Friday 20 September with 18 Mark Men in attendance for the RAM Installation & Mark meeting.
W. Bro. Tony Austin was Installed as Commander in exemplary form by W. Bro. Len Abrahams as the visiting Installing Commander.
The Mark meeting followed with two more candidates being Advanced into the Lodge in a most sincere & respectful ritual, with some visitors taking Office, notably V.W. Bro. Trevor Clarke (Herts) assuming the Senior Deacons role.
Further good news is that Chingford has another 2 ‘Advancees’ in the pipeline!
Also in attendance was W. Bro. Paul Reeves, Chair of the TLC (Essex) Appeal who was presented with a cheque for £500 from the Lodge Charity Steward making them the only unit outside of Craft & RA to achieve Silver Patron status.
After very busy & wonderfully ‘Mark’ friendly meetings, the 18 Mark Men dined together and enjoyed a Bangers & Mash Festive Board which topped off a great afternoon for the Lodge, Mark Masonry & Charity!
Posted on 24/09/24
St. Nicholas Lodge of Mark Master Masons No.413
Thursday 19 September 2024
Harwich
Bro. Graham Hunt (from Dedham Vale Lodge in Manningtree) was Advanced by the WM Doodle Green and his officers.
We were assisted by our visitors occupying vacant offices - Dick Stephens as MO and Les Thurston as Tyler. It's interesting to note that we now have an influx of new members from the two Craft Lodges at Manningtree where I have many friends. Of these four, they will now be bringing their friends into the Mark and have expressed and interest in joining our RAM Lodge. An excellent example of how networking leads to new members |
Posted 23/09/24
Naze Tower RAM Lodge No. 1380
Wednesday 18 September 2024
Kirby Cross
Bro. Les Bargus was elevated into the Lodge by the 'new' Worshipful Commander David Telling.
Visitors assisted in the ceremony with acting officers - Paul Firmin as Junior Warden, David Rout as Senior Deacon, Colin Kendrick as Junior Deacon and ably assisted by W.Bro. John Stannard Asst.Prov.G.M as Warder. It's reassuring that other members of the Naze Tower Mark are waiting to join and increase the numbers. |
Posted on 23/09/24
Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge
of Mark Master Masons
and Royal Ark Mariners No. 1244
Tuesday 14 May 2024
RAM Meeting
The Brethren of The Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge No. 1244 convened on Tuesday, 14 May 2024, for their regular Royal Ark Mariner meeting. The occasion was significantly enhanced by the presence of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro Richard Goodwin, who was accompanied by his escorting officer, W.Bro Rob Lancashire.
The meeting commenced by the Worshipful Commander opening the Lodge with exceptional precision, showcasing an impressive execution of the ritual, supported effectively by his officers. A notable performance was delivered by Bro Dalbir Kathuria (Senior Deacon), earning commendations from all the Brethren present.
During the meeting, W.Bro Richard Goodwin presented Grand Lodge certificates to Bro's Dalbir Kathuria David Blewitt, and Paramjit Dev. His presentation was meticulously detailed, highlighting and comparing the writing, stamp, and paper quality of the certificates to those from the past. He also shared historical certificates for the Brethren's viewing, commending the recipients for achieving this significant milestone in their Masonic journeys.
The Lodge meeting concluded in an exemplary manner, with the Worshipful Commander, Hugh Williams, leading the closing, once again receiving excellent support from his officers.
Mark Master Mason Meeting
After a short break, the Brethren of The Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge No. 1244 reconvened for their Mark Master Mason meeting. The event was marked by great pomp and honour, as the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro Richard Goodwin, was received by the Brethren of the Lodge. The Lodge also had the pleasure of welcoming an Advancee, Bro. Surinder Pal Singh Kalsi, into their ranks.
The ceremony of Advancement was conducted by the Worshipful Master, Hugh Williams, and W.Bro Roy Latchman, who both performed this in an exemplary manner, supported ably by the Lodge officers. The ritual execution was highly regarded by all present, with Bro Dalbir Kathuria (Senior Warden) receiving notable applause for his excellent conduct of his duty. Additionally, a special mention must be given to the visitor W.Bro Len Abrahams, who, despite being asked at the last minute, took on the role of Senior Deacon and executed this in his usual calm and eloquent manner.
W.Bro Richard Goodwin presented Bro. Sukhjinder Nahr with his Grand Lodge Certificate, providing a splendid explanation of its purpose and meaning, and comparing it to certificates issued in the past. He commended Bro. Sukhjinder Nahr on his achievements in the degree to date.
W.Bro Ranjot Bhogal presented the Lodge with a custom-made triangle to replace the old one. W.Bro Hugh Williams expressed gratitude to W.Bro Ranjit Bhogal for his generous donation and his continued support to the Lodge and Masonry in general.
The Lodge was closed in impeccable fashion, and the Brethren enjoyed a wonderful Festive Board. During this time, W.Bro Richard Goodwin informed the Brethren of the plans for 2030 and shared his vision, given his role in leading the fundraising agenda for what will be a milestone event.
The Brethren of The Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge No. 1244 convened on Tuesday, 14 May 2024, for their regular Royal Ark Mariner meeting. The occasion was significantly enhanced by the presence of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro Richard Goodwin, who was accompanied by his escorting officer, W.Bro Rob Lancashire.
The meeting commenced by the Worshipful Commander opening the Lodge with exceptional precision, showcasing an impressive execution of the ritual, supported effectively by his officers. A notable performance was delivered by Bro Dalbir Kathuria (Senior Deacon), earning commendations from all the Brethren present.
During the meeting, W.Bro Richard Goodwin presented Grand Lodge certificates to Bro's Dalbir Kathuria David Blewitt, and Paramjit Dev. His presentation was meticulously detailed, highlighting and comparing the writing, stamp, and paper quality of the certificates to those from the past. He also shared historical certificates for the Brethren's viewing, commending the recipients for achieving this significant milestone in their Masonic journeys.
The Lodge meeting concluded in an exemplary manner, with the Worshipful Commander, Hugh Williams, leading the closing, once again receiving excellent support from his officers.
Mark Master Mason Meeting
After a short break, the Brethren of The Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge No. 1244 reconvened for their Mark Master Mason meeting. The event was marked by great pomp and honour, as the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro Richard Goodwin, was received by the Brethren of the Lodge. The Lodge also had the pleasure of welcoming an Advancee, Bro. Surinder Pal Singh Kalsi, into their ranks.
The ceremony of Advancement was conducted by the Worshipful Master, Hugh Williams, and W.Bro Roy Latchman, who both performed this in an exemplary manner, supported ably by the Lodge officers. The ritual execution was highly regarded by all present, with Bro Dalbir Kathuria (Senior Warden) receiving notable applause for his excellent conduct of his duty. Additionally, a special mention must be given to the visitor W.Bro Len Abrahams, who, despite being asked at the last minute, took on the role of Senior Deacon and executed this in his usual calm and eloquent manner.
W.Bro Richard Goodwin presented Bro. Sukhjinder Nahr with his Grand Lodge Certificate, providing a splendid explanation of its purpose and meaning, and comparing it to certificates issued in the past. He commended Bro. Sukhjinder Nahr on his achievements in the degree to date.
W.Bro Ranjot Bhogal presented the Lodge with a custom-made triangle to replace the old one. W.Bro Hugh Williams expressed gratitude to W.Bro Ranjit Bhogal for his generous donation and his continued support to the Lodge and Masonry in general.
The Lodge was closed in impeccable fashion, and the Brethren enjoyed a wonderful Festive Board. During this time, W.Bro Richard Goodwin informed the Brethren of the plans for 2030 and shared his vision, given his role in leading the fundraising agenda for what will be a milestone event.
Posted 25/05/2024
Essex Jubilee Lodge of M.M.M. No.1123
10 May 2024
Saxon Hall
Congratulations to the Essex Jubilee Lodge of Mark Master Masons on their 75th Anniversary.
A wonderful meeting, a double Advancement, a joining member, an official visit from the Dep.Prov.G.M, W.Bro. John Finlay and the presentation of two Grand lodge certificates. Pictured below, the W.M. the Dep.Prov.G.M. Active Provincial Officers and the two candidates. Welcome to Johnathon Warner and Mark Day.
Posted on 12/05/24
West Ham Lodge of M.M.M. No.467
25 April 2024
Chelmsford
At West Ham's recent meeting, they Advanced two more into the Friendly Degree. The ceremony was carried out in fine form by W.Bro. Steve McConnell, ably assisted by members of the Provincial Ritual Team.
Welcome to Lee Brown and Brian Farrington. West Ham Lodge is going from strength to strength.
Posted on 12/05/24
Best Practice at Braintree!
Tuesday 16 April 2024
Tuesday saw the latest meeting of Fillebrook RAM Lodge at Braintree Masonic Hall, where 15 members and visitors were party to a new presentation of “Tips & Tricks” for best practice in the MARK and RAM Degrees by the by the DC Team, Tony Goater and Phil Richardson. Everybody made their daily advancement of Masonic Knowledge!
The aim of Fillebrook RAM Lodge is to show this best practice and assist in ritual in Mark and RAM across the Province. Working in conjunction with the Ritual Support team and the Provincial Lodges of Instruction, it is an ideal vehicle for Lodge D.C’s, A.D.C’s and aspiring Lodge D.C’s in Essex to see good examples of Lodge protocol, layout and ceremonials, as well as to ask questions. |
The guests at the meeting took advantage of the members extensive experience, including the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in addition to the DC Team and other experienced Mark Men. This was followed by an excellent Festive Board at a very reasonable price, the meal was first class, many thanks to the caterers at Braintree Masonic Hall.
The next meeting will be on Friday 4th October, at Chingford Masonic Hall where the full Installation Ceremony in RAM will be presented as well as “The Stones” part of the Mark Advancement Ceremony. Look out for the announcements for the meeting and book early to avoid disappointment,
The next meeting will be on Friday 4th October, at Chingford Masonic Hall where the full Installation Ceremony in RAM will be presented as well as “The Stones” part of the Mark Advancement Ceremony. Look out for the announcements for the meeting and book early to avoid disappointment,
Posted on 20/04/23
Mark of Love and Remembrance No. 1718
Saturday 13 April 2024
Rochford
What a meeting at the Mark of Love and Remembrance Lodge on Saturday 13th April at Rochford.
Eighteen members of Lodge Zetland 391 Scottish Constitution, paid a visit, in attendance was our own Provincial Grand Master,R.W.Bro. Terence D. Sheern accompanied by the Provincial Officers, the Provincial Grand Master Designate, and the Asst. Prov.Grand Master Designate, who were all given an excellent demonstration of the Mark Degree as practiced in Scotland, the members and visitors were not disappointed, their humour and sincerity during the degree were second to none, there were many similarities but also as many differences. This was followed by sixty brethren dining with some excellent speeches and the usual banter. This was all then followed by what our Scots Brethren call “Harmony” which took place in the bar, made up of humorous poems and enthusiastic singing. Certainly a meeting to be remembered
Eighteen members of Lodge Zetland 391 Scottish Constitution, paid a visit, in attendance was our own Provincial Grand Master,R.W.Bro. Terence D. Sheern accompanied by the Provincial Officers, the Provincial Grand Master Designate, and the Asst. Prov.Grand Master Designate, who were all given an excellent demonstration of the Mark Degree as practiced in Scotland, the members and visitors were not disappointed, their humour and sincerity during the degree were second to none, there were many similarities but also as many differences. This was followed by sixty brethren dining with some excellent speeches and the usual banter. This was all then followed by what our Scots Brethren call “Harmony” which took place in the bar, made up of humorous poems and enthusiastic singing. Certainly a meeting to be remembered
Posted on 24/04/24
Chelmer Mark and RAM No.342
Wednesday 10 April 2024
Chelmsford
Wednesday 10 April saw Chelmer Mark and RAM meet, in the company of W.Bro Richard Goodwin Assistant Provincial Grand Master (Dep.P.G.M Designate), to Install the new Commander in the RAM and receive the Mark Lecture.
The RAM was opened by the Worshipful Commander, Worshipful Brother Adam Taylor, who welcomed W.Bro Richard Goodwin to Chelmer RAM. After the minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed, the Worshipful Commander had the pleasure of welcoming W.Bro Martin Bates back into Chelmer RAM as a rejoining member, after which Bro Bob Hendrie was presented his RAM Grand Lodge certificate by the Asst.P.G.M in a most interesting manner. The Director of Ceremonies then presented the Commander Elect, W.Bro Ian Gager, to the Commander to be Installed. W.Bro Gager, having previously been installed, the Worshipful Commander then conducted the Installation of W.Bro Gager into the chair of Commander of the Lodge in a most excellent and heartfelt manner, which included the Address to the Commander. |
The newly Installed Commander then had much pleasure in appointing and investing his officers, before completing the business of the meeting and closing the Chelmer Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners.
After the Temple had been rearranged, the Mark meeting was opened by the Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Christoper Brown, who then had much pleasure in receiving W.Bro Richard Goodwin Asst.P.G.M into Chelmer Lodge of Mark Master Masons, accompanied by numerous Grand and Provincial Grand Officers. There not being a candidate for Advancement at this meeting, the Brethren were treated to a rendition of the Mark Lecture by W.Bro Martin Bates; which culminated in a rousing round of applause from all present and the Worshipful Master extending his personal thanks to W.Bro Martin for delivering the Lecture, which was likely the first time a number of the members had heard it. Following the completion of the remaining agenda items, and, after the Lodge was closed, a number of the brethren retired to a friendly and enjoyable Festive Board. |
Posted on 20/04/24
Provincial Grand Master
attends the Surrey Mark Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting
Saturday 16 March 2024
Our Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro. Terence D. Sheern attended Surrey's AGM, accompanied by several prominent members of our Province.
Published 18 March 2024
Saxon Shore Lodge No. 1319
Tollesbury
The Saxon Shore Lodge of MMM were privileged to have in their presence W.Bro John Stannard, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, who was on an official visit and there to witness the installation of W.Bro. Kelvin Bowles.
Published 17 March 2024
Thameside RAM Lodge No. 1463
Orsett
Thameside RAM Lodge 1463, recently welcomed two new brothers, Kevin Elliot-Vance and Alan Curtis, to the Royal Ark Mariner Degree in a double ceremony, carried out in a sincere and friendly meeting.
W.Bro. Barry Coombes from the ritual support team was there to assist with the ceremony, all finished off with an excellent Fish and Chips supper, a good time was had by all.
W.Bro. Barry Coombes from the ritual support team was there to assist with the ceremony, all finished off with an excellent Fish and Chips supper, a good time was had by all.
Published 17 March 2024
Khalsa Royal Oak Tree Lodge
of Mark Master Masons
and Royal Ark Mariners No. 1244
Tuesday 20 February 2024
"Onward and Upward"
After years of decline, the Khalsa Lodges have turned the corner and are now both growing and vibrant, each with a full complement of Officers and brethren, and more candidates waiting in the wings.
On Tuesday 20 February the Worshipful Commander Hugh Williams elevated Brother Ronald Hodgson into Royal Ark Mariners.
This was followed by the Mark meeting, with Brother Hugh being installed as the Worshipful Master - a busy time lays ahead for him .
Afterwards the brethren enjoyed each other’s company at the Festive Board.
After years of decline, the Khalsa Lodges have turned the corner and are now both growing and vibrant, each with a full complement of Officers and brethren, and more candidates waiting in the wings.
On Tuesday 20 February the Worshipful Commander Hugh Williams elevated Brother Ronald Hodgson into Royal Ark Mariners.
This was followed by the Mark meeting, with Brother Hugh being installed as the Worshipful Master - a busy time lays ahead for him .
Afterwards the brethren enjoyed each other’s company at the Festive Board.
Published 27 February 2024
Naze Tower RAM and Mark Lodges No. 1380
Wednesday 21 February
Wednesday 21 February saw Naze Tower RAM and Mark Lodges No.1380 hold their meetings at Kirby Masonic Centre, to which I was a guest from Harwich.
We were honoured by a visit from the Deputy Prov.G.M. (Prov.G.M. Designate) W.Bro. John Finlay.
Each of the two meetings received a talk of Masonic interest by W.Bro. Dick Jones:-
Although the Naze Tower Lodges have been struggling for members over the past few months W.Bro. Alan Keyte has stepped up as Scribe/Secretary and kept things going, and has managed to secure the re-joining of most of the members that had resigned a few months ago. His hard work has been rewarded by receiving Provincial RAM honours at the 1044 meeting on 19 March 2024.
In proposing a toast to the W.M. at the festive board, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master made mention of the hard work that W.Bro. Dick had done in also helping to keep the Naze Tower Lodge going.
A very pleasurable and enjoyable time was had by all that attended.
Report by W.Bro. David Rout
We were honoured by a visit from the Deputy Prov.G.M. (Prov.G.M. Designate) W.Bro. John Finlay.
Each of the two meetings received a talk of Masonic interest by W.Bro. Dick Jones:-
- In the RAM meeting “Why the building of the Ark fell behind”
- In the Mark meeting “The Emergence of Military Masonic Lodges"
Although the Naze Tower Lodges have been struggling for members over the past few months W.Bro. Alan Keyte has stepped up as Scribe/Secretary and kept things going, and has managed to secure the re-joining of most of the members that had resigned a few months ago. His hard work has been rewarded by receiving Provincial RAM honours at the 1044 meeting on 19 March 2024.
In proposing a toast to the W.M. at the festive board, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master made mention of the hard work that W.Bro. Dick had done in also helping to keep the Naze Tower Lodge going.
A very pleasurable and enjoyable time was had by all that attended.
Report by W.Bro. David Rout
Published 26 February 2024
Isthmian Mark & RAM Lodge No. 891
Wednesday 14 February
Wednesday 14 February saw the Isthmian Mark and RAM Lodge No. 891 meet in Chingford to conduct an Elevation in the RAM and to receive the Travelling Maul in the Mark.
The Lodge was also pleased to receive an official visit from the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and Provincial Grand Master Designate, W.Bro. John Finlay.
The RAM was opened by W.Bro. Pierre Waddoups who was covering for the Worshipful Commander, W.Bro. Mark Sharp, who was on “Husband” duties with the meeting falling on Valentines Day! A RAM Grand Lodge Certificate was then presented to Bro. Robert Selwyn by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in a most interesting and informative way.
The main business of the meeting was to conduct a double Elevation for Bro’s Derek West and Peter Leach, both members of the Isthmian Mark Lodge. W.Bro. Waddoups conducted the Elevation ceremony in an excellent manner, ably assisted by all the officers of the Lodge, particularly W.Bro. Chris Brown who was not only Senior Deacon, but also gave the explanation of the signs.
All other business in the RAM was conducted in a prompt and efficient manner, which included W.Bro. Adam Taylor, the Lodge’s Junior Warden, being elected Commander Elect for the ensuing year.
The Lodge was also pleased to receive an official visit from the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and Provincial Grand Master Designate, W.Bro. John Finlay.
The RAM was opened by W.Bro. Pierre Waddoups who was covering for the Worshipful Commander, W.Bro. Mark Sharp, who was on “Husband” duties with the meeting falling on Valentines Day! A RAM Grand Lodge Certificate was then presented to Bro. Robert Selwyn by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in a most interesting and informative way.
The main business of the meeting was to conduct a double Elevation for Bro’s Derek West and Peter Leach, both members of the Isthmian Mark Lodge. W.Bro. Waddoups conducted the Elevation ceremony in an excellent manner, ably assisted by all the officers of the Lodge, particularly W.Bro. Chris Brown who was not only Senior Deacon, but also gave the explanation of the signs.
All other business in the RAM was conducted in a prompt and efficient manner, which included W.Bro. Adam Taylor, the Lodge’s Junior Warden, being elected Commander Elect for the ensuing year.
After the temple had been rearranged, and a quick ‘cuppa’ was had by all, the Mark meeting was opened by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Robert Selwyn.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master was then immediately welcomed into the Temple by the Worshipful Master, accompanied by a retinue of Grand and Provincial Grand Officers, under the guidance of W.Bro. Martin Bullard.
The Lodge then had the honour of receiving the Traveling Maul from W.Bro Richard Fox, the Worshipful Master of Rainham Mark Lodge No. 859, who was accompanied by V.W.Bro. Richard Bowyer.
Isthmian Mark Lodge will be the safe custodians of the Traveling Maul until the 23 March, when it will be presented to St. Katherine’s Mark Lodge.
In advance of the planned Mark Awareness morning at Chingford on Saturday 4 May (which Isthmian Lodge are hosting) the Mark Meeting concluded with the Deputy Provincial Grand Master giving a short talk on the success of previous Awareness events and what to expect at the upcoming one.
The Brethren then retired to a friendly and enjoyable Festive Board.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master was then immediately welcomed into the Temple by the Worshipful Master, accompanied by a retinue of Grand and Provincial Grand Officers, under the guidance of W.Bro. Martin Bullard.
The Lodge then had the honour of receiving the Traveling Maul from W.Bro Richard Fox, the Worshipful Master of Rainham Mark Lodge No. 859, who was accompanied by V.W.Bro. Richard Bowyer.
Isthmian Mark Lodge will be the safe custodians of the Traveling Maul until the 23 March, when it will be presented to St. Katherine’s Mark Lodge.
In advance of the planned Mark Awareness morning at Chingford on Saturday 4 May (which Isthmian Lodge are hosting) the Mark Meeting concluded with the Deputy Provincial Grand Master giving a short talk on the success of previous Awareness events and what to expect at the upcoming one.
The Brethren then retired to a friendly and enjoyable Festive Board.
Published 22 February 2024
Easterford Mark Lodge No. 1781
Wednesday 7 February
Wednesday 7th February saw the Easterford Mark Lodge No. 1781 hold an emergency meeting to Advance Bro. Russell Galpin into Mark Masonry.
Bro. Russ has been a member of Easterford Craft and Chapter since May 2019, and it was a delight for the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Mark Lawrence, his proposer, to complete the trilogy of membership within Easterford.
With the Provincial Grand Master unable to attend as a private personal guest, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. John Stannard, kindly accepted the invitation and was delighted to accept a cheque of £2,250.00 on behalf of the 2030 Festival.
Bro. Russ has been a member of Easterford Craft and Chapter since May 2019, and it was a delight for the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Mark Lawrence, his proposer, to complete the trilogy of membership within Easterford.
With the Provincial Grand Master unable to attend as a private personal guest, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. John Stannard, kindly accepted the invitation and was delighted to accept a cheque of £2,250.00 on behalf of the 2030 Festival.
Published 18 February 2024
Crowstone Lodge No. 945
Thursday 18 January
Saxon Hall
This replica of the Crowstone was purchased by Geoff Newman and presented to Crowstone Lodge to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the RAM lodge in November. Since that time, research was carried out to establish the names of the Past Masters of the Mark Lodge and plates were printed showing those names.
The real Crowstone stands on the foreshore at Chalkwell and, along with its counterpart in Kent, formerly marked the seaward limit of the authority of the City of London. Their recent meeting was the first opportunity that the members had to see the completed replica. Also, at the meeting saw the unveiling of a box frame which contains breast jewels from the Lodge 50 year celebration in 1985. These jewels were discovered amongst some unclaimed items at Saxon Hall, the current meeting place of the Lodge. |
Published 21 January 2024