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Article PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF EAST LANCASHIRE. ← Page 2 of 2 Article PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF WEST YORKSHIRE. Page 1 of 1 Article PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF WEST YORKSHIRE. Page 1 of 1 Article PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF WEST YORKSHIRE. Page 1 of 1 Article CONSECRATION OF THE BROOKE LODGE, No. 2005, CHINGFORD. Page 1 of 2 →
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Provincial Grand Lodge Of East Lancashire.
nicnt of the financial year there was a balance in the bank of £ 261 , contributions from lodges during the year amounted to £ 430 , and various other receipts brought up the total to £ . S $ 3 . The expenditure side of the account showed that a donation of £ 262 10 s . had been made to the Royal Masonic Institution for Boys , and two donations of £ 50 and £ 51 respectively to the East Lancashire Masonic Educational Institution , and that after the payment of grants of bnnevnlonre and the necessary expenses of the province
there remained a balance in the bank of £ 70 . The accounts were passed , and the thanks of the province were , upon the motion of the Prov . Grand Master , accorded to the
Treasurer . For the office of Prov . Grand Treasurer for the ensuing year two candidates were proposed , viz ., Bro . J . Oakden , 29 S , and J . Leech , 300 . Upon a show of hands the numbers appeared so evenly divided that a division was taken , and the votes were returned as follows : Oakden , 134 ; Leech , 1 ig . It was then intimated that by inadvertence several votes had been counted twice , and a second division was taken , when the numbers recorded were 127 for each candidate . The Prov . Grand Master gave a casting vote
in favour of Bro . Leech , who was declared elected amid much applause . The Provincial Grand Officers for the ensuing year were invested as follows : Bro . George Mellor ( reappointed ) ... Dep . Prov . G . M . „ James Maclaren , 62 Prov . G . S . W . „ I . H . Sillitoe , G 45 Prov . G . J . VV .
„ Rev . VV . R . Clayton , igi ... Prov . G . Chap . „ Rev . E . Parker Prov . G . Asst . C . „ I . Leech Prov . G . Treas . „ | . Chadwick ( re-elected ) ... Prov . G . Sec . „ " I . T . Worth , 3 G 7 Prov . G . Reg . „ A . VV . Siddall , 2 GS Prov . G . S . D . „ L T . Newbold , 1013 1 p — r . in .
„ T . H . Glendinning , 1055 ) ' -J' ' „ I . Morris , 14 6 Prov . G . S . of VV . „ John Roberts , 204 Prov . G . D . C . " II . Grundy , 42 Prov . G . D . D . C „ I . W . Abbott , 1030 Prov . G . A . D . C . " ft . Collins , 54 Prov . G . Swd . Br . „ R . Pilkington , 1392 ^ Prov . G . Std . Brs . „ J . Andrew , 121 9 ) „ S . Mycrscough , 29 S Prov . G . Org .
„ R . Ashworth , 2 SG Prov . G . Purst . „ VV . Davies , 54 Prov . G . A . P . Bros . J . Dcarden , J . Wilkinson , and 7 p G St d T . Livcsey ) ' '
The R . W . P . G . M ., re-investing Bro . John Chadwick as Prov . Grand Secretary , took occasion to speak in terms of high praise of the admirable and satisfactory manner in which he had performed the laborious and important duties appertaining to his office . Col . Starkie proceeded to say that he had no doubt Bro . Chadwick ' s services had been
thoroughly appreciated by the brethren belonging to the numerous lodges in the province as they were by him ( Col . Starkie ) , and to mark his appreciation of them and the confidence he reposed in the P . G . Sec , he felt great pleasure in presenting him with a gold jewel , which he ( the colonel ) hadpurchascd at his own expense . This act of generosity was received with loud applause by the brethren , and Bro . Chadwick acknowledged the
compliment in appropriate terms . The ollice of Prov . G . S . D . was conferred upon Uro . Lieut .-Col . Sowlcr , who was , owing to important duties , unavoidably absent , and upon the Prov . Grand Secretary announcing that a letter of apology had been received from Bro . Sowlcr , the R . W . Prov . Grand Master decided that the office remain vacant , and the brother who had fulfilled the duties thereof during the past year should continue dointr so during the ensuing 12 months .
The Prov . Grand Secretary presented his report on the condition of the Order in East Lancashire , which showed that there were 353 G subscribing members in the province , as against 3 GJ 5 last year . The report was adopted , as was also the report of the Charity Committee . The PROV . GRAND M ASTER then moved that an address of condolence with the Queen and the Duchess of Albany on the loss they have sustained by the death of the Duke of Albany be forwarded in the name of the Freemasons of
East Lancashire . He said that in the death of H . R . H . England had lost a bright and noble Prince who had by his life and conduct . centred within himself the affection of all classes of society . He was endeared to them as Freemasons , by his love for the Order , and esteemed by them as an ornament to Freemasonry . The motion was agreed to . It was resolved on the motion of Bro . C R . N . BESWICKE-ROYDS . P . P . G . S . W ., that the sum of £ 50 be
contributed from the Prov . Grand Lodge Fund in aid of the East Lancashire Systematic Masonic Educational and Benevolent Institution . The motion was seconded and carried , and after some other formal business had been transacted , Provincial Grand Lodge was closed . A procession was then formed , and the brethren attended service at the parish church , at which a sermon was preached by the Prov . Grand Chaplain , and an offertory taken on behalf of the Masonic Charities . Subsequently there was a banquet at the Town Hall , Col . Starkie presiding .
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF WEST YORKSHIRE .
The half-yearly meeting of this body was held at Sheffield on the 23 rd ult ., under the banner of the Britannia Lodge , No . 52 , when there was a very good muster from the Province . The Britannia Lodge was opened by the W . M .,
Uro . Unwin , P . G . S . W ., and his officers at 4 . 15 p . m ., and at 4 . 30 the R . W . Prov . G . M . M . M ., Bro . C . L . Mason , accompanied by his Deputy , Bro . the Rev . W . C . Lukisand other officers , entered the room , when the Provincial Grand Lodge was duly opened and the usual salutations given . The R . W . PROVINCIAL G RAND MASTER thanked the brethren for their kind salutations and hearty reception ,
and having referred to the adhesion of the Prince of Wales to the Mark Degree , and the creation of H . R . H . to the rank of Past Grand Master , then spoke of the loss the Order had sustained in the death of the Duke of Albany . He ( the Provincial Grand Master ) believed their lamented brother took a great interest in Freemasonry , and had his life been spared he would have raised the prestige of the Craft still hig her ; but upon this they must not dwell ; might they say with all reverence and respect , " Rcquicscat in pace , " " till the day dawn and the shadows flee away . " He should ask
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
them later to pass a vote of condolence to Her Majesty the Queen and also to the widowed Duchess . After a passing reference to the origin of the Mark Degree , and its connection with the Royal Arch in Scotland , the Prov . Grand Master proceeded to speak of the position of Mark Masonry under the English Constitution as follows : The present Grand Mark Lodge was formed in June , 1 S 5 G , and comprises several lodges which have worked the Degree for about a
century . Its growth , at first slow , has of late rapidly increased , and there are now between 300 and 400 Lodges working under the English Constitution . At the same time , I , am sorry to say that there has not been very great increase in our own Province , but rather , may I say , a backward tendency . We have on our roll in West Yorkshire nominally eight lodges : two workingunderwarrantsof confirmation time immemorial , viz ., No . 14 , Prince Edward , Eastwood , warrant
of confirmation dated 2 Sth May , 1 SG 2 ; T . I ., Old Vork , Bradford , warrant of confirmation dated Sth November , 1 S 73 ; and six other lodges , viz ., Nos . 53 , Britannia , Sheffield , warrant dated 21 st January , 1 SG 1 ; 5 S , Fearnley , Halifax , 13 th October , 1 S 62 ' ; no , Integrity , Wakefield , nth March , 1 S 70 ; m , Copley , Leeds , 20 th June , 1 S 70 ; 127 , Portal , Dewsbury , 25 th January 1 S 71 ; 137 , Truth , Huddcrsfield , oth August , 1 S 71 . So that during the last
thirteen years wc have had no increase in the number of lodges . At the present time the Prince Edward Lodge has 22 members and 22 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Britannia , 94 members and 14 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Fearnley , 37 members , 20 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Integrity , no return ; Copley , 45 members , and 15 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Portal , no return ; Truth , 23 members , and 14 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Old
York , 59 members , and 16 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers . Now , although nominally we have eight lodges on the roll , practically we have only six lodges ; and from the balancesheet attached to the summons convening this meeting wc find two of these had no additions last year to their number . Brethren , why this apathy ? Is the degree worth nothing ? Has it no symbolical teaching ? I know there is in Freemasonry , like everything else , a time of ebbing and one of
flowing . Trade is bad , and it is said Masonry is a luxury , and the higher degrees greater luxuries , so that wc must deny ourselves , and wait for brighter and more prosperous days . There are others who ignore the degree altogether ; but these I will dismiss without a word . Masonry is a science , and the several degrees are successive steps : " She does not unfold her mysteries to all who seek her shrine . " It hath beer , said of our Degree , "It assists in strengthening
the social affections , it teaches us the duty wc owe to our Brethren in particular , and the whole family of mankind in general , by ascribing praise to the meritorious and dispensing rewards to the diligent and industrious . " May I ask , and ask not in vain , for the kind co-operation of the brethren in resuscitating the dormant lodges in this province , either by rekindling new life into their dying energies , or by the transfer of their warrants to districts
where the degree is more understood and appreciated , so that when my term of office shall expire 1 may hand over to my successor a roll of active lodges , worked by zealous and loyal Mark Master Masons . Having thanked the brethren of the Britannia Lodge for their kindness in making the preparation for and hearty welcome of Provincial Grand Mark Lodge that day , the Prov . Grand Master called attention to the last anathema that had been
hurled against them as Freemasons . They were told that " Freemasonry , which is ever assuming more terrible proportions , aims at the ruin of the throne , the altar , and of the public welfare . " The classification of Freemasonry , socialism , and communism under one category , and the declaration that their common object is the subversion of all civil society and the destruction of reli g ion , was as far as regards Freemasonry such an utter disregard for all
truth , that the language used in the encyclical about to be issued seemed incredible . They , as Freemasons , knew better than that . Did the teaching of "the correction of irregularities and the subjugation of our passions " lead to the dishonour of God , the sovereign , or the welfare of society ? Those charges had been made before , and they would be made again . Resting assured in the dignity and grandeur of their Order , and firm in conscious rectitude .
let them quietly pursue their course , unimpeded by such attacks , so that they might be enabled in all truth to say , " Have we mark'd well , Great Overseer , A work to last beyond our time ? Each his allotted task fulfilled ? The glory and the praise be Thine . " The Prov . Grand Master then again very feelingly spoke of the great loss which the Order had sustained by the sudden death of H . R . H . the Duke of Albany , M . W . Past G . M . M . M ., and moved
that the condolence of the Provincial Grand Lodge be forwarded to Her Majesty the Queen and also to H . R . H . the Duchess of Albany , and that the same be entered on he minutes . This was forcibly seconded by the W . Deputy Provincial Grand Master , supported by other brethren , and carried unanimously . The following are copies of the votes : " To the Queen's Most Excellent Majesty . "
" We , the Mark Master Masons of West Yorkshire , in Provincial Grand Lodge assembled , respectfull y approach your Majosty desiring to express the very profound grief we feel at the loss your Majesty has sustained by the sudden and unexpected removal from amongst us , by the inscrutible will of the Great Overseer of the Universe , of your Majesty's illustrious son , H . R . H . Prince Leopold , Duke of Albany , K . G . Wc remember with gratitude the
great interest H . R . H . the Duke of Albany manifested in the prosperity of the Order to which we belong ; and regret that he has enjoyed for so short a period the high and distinguished ollice he held as Most Worshipfuf Past Grand Mark Master Mason of England and Wales , the Colonies and Dependencies of your Majesty ' s Dominions .
In expressing our condolence , we fervently pray that the Great Overseer of the Universe may endue your Majesty with fortitude to support the heavy trial which has so suddenly overtaken you : and that He may vouchsafe to you a continuance of that health andstrength which conduce to the happiness and welfare of all your Majesty ' s most devoted and faithful subjects . "
" To Her Royal Hi ghness the Duchess of Albany . " We , the Mark Master Masons of West Yorkshire , in Provincial Grand Lodge assembled , respectfully , approach your Royal Highness with an expression of our sincere sympathy with you in the irreparable loss your Royal Highness has sustained by the untimel y death of your beloved husband , our deeply lamented Most Worshipful Past Grand Mark Master Mason , H . R . H . the Duke of Albany , K . G . We remember with pleasure that his
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
Royal Highness was the first of the Royal Princes who joined our Order , and the great interest he at all times manifested in its welfare . In offering our condolence , we trust that it will please the Great Overseer of the Universe to support and comfort your Royal Highness in this your sad bereavement . " The addresses were signed on behalf of the Prov . Grand
Lodge by the Prov . Grand Master . Bro . Monckman , P . P . G . W ., on behalf of the Old York-Lodge , r . L , having invited the R . W . Prov . G . M . M . M . to hold the annual meeting at Bradford , in October next , the l rov . Grand Lodge was duly closed , and the brethren spent an exceedingly pleasant evening together , until the time arrived for the various trains to take them to their respective homes .
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
CONSECRATION OF THE BROOKE LODGE , No . 2005 , CHINGFORD .
The consecration of the Brooke Lodge took place at the Forest Hotel , Chingford , on Tuesday last , when Lord Brooke , the Prov . Grand Master for Essex was announced as the consecrating officer , and Bro . Frederick A . Philbrick , the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , as the installing officer . Unfortunately the exigencies of his parliamentary duties
prevented Lord Brooke being present , and under the circumstances the whole of the presidential duty of inaugurating the new lodge fell upon the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , who however was , as mi g ht be expected of him , fully equal to the occasion , and performed the entire ceremony in a most perfect manner , assisted by Bros . Richard Clowes , as S . W . ; VV . Sowman , as J . W . ; Rev . C II . Roberts , as Chap . ; Thomas J . Dalling , as S . D .: I . I . Cavile , as
J . D .: A . Lucking , as D . C . ; and J . W . Hair , P . P . G . Reg ., as Tyler . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Carl Reichclmann , assisted by Bros . E . J . Bell , Charles Beckett , James Brown , and A . L . Fryer . During the ceremony the acting Chaplain , the Rev . C H . ROHERTS , delivered an oration , in which he said that there seemed but little doubt that an oration on the principles of Freemasonry formed an important item in the
ceremony of the consecration of a new lodge . Perhaps at no period of its existence had the Order been of greater prominence than it was now , not only from the fact of the exalted social position of their M . W . G . M ., but by the unerring proof of its reality shown in the increase of the numbers of our lodges and members , and the support given by them to our most excellent Charitable Institutions . Wc must not forget , however , that Freemasonry was attracting
the attention of the whole world , and disparaging remarks were made against it which , even if true of any foreign ritual , could not with truth be urged against English Freemasonry . There mi ght be many brethren who would consider the knowledge in their own heart that the calumnies were false was sufficient , and that might be so in one sense , but not in another ; sufficient because Masons were independent of external judgment , but not sufficient unless
Masons learned how the surmise originated , and were willing to be taught a lesson thereby . Brethren must not forget the reverence they owe to the Most High , and must always remember that our lodges are dedicated to Him . There could not be too much caution exercised in encompassing this object . In a new lodge extra precautions were necessary , as many were ready to rush into a new lodge so as to obtain rapid promotion . He urged them to
learn its particular lesson from each article of the lodge furniture , and that the sacred writings be taken as a guide to our faith . Ever remember , said the rev . brother , the five points of friendshi p in deed as well as in word . Let us ensure pious behaviour in lodge , nor let there be any contradiction thereto by the conduct outside its walls . Thus , brethren , wc shall promote the true welfare of our Order , then will the Most High bless us in our work ; oursccrct arts and
hidden mysteries will be more precious to us , and our more careful lives may show the world we arc controlled by a Supreme Being , to whom one day we must render an account . Let us go on with boldness to benefit one another and thus enrich ourselves , and may the world know thus much of our mysteries that a Freemason is a good man because a God-fearing one ; that a Mason is one to whom the burdened heart may pour forth its sorrows , to
whom the distressed may prefer their suit ; whose hand is guided by justice , and whose heart is expanded by benevolence . Freemasonry will thus be a blessing to its members , an ornament to the world , and an honour to its first great founder . Having concluded the consecration ceremony , Bro . Philbrick installed the Master designate , Bro . Wm . Herbage , first Master of the Brooke Lodsrc . and concluded bv
delivering the customary addresses to the Master , the Wardens , and members of the lodge . Bro . Herbage then invested his officers as follows : Bros . J . R . Johnson , S . W . ; . 1 . Saddler Wood , J . W . ; Jos . Clcver . P . M . 171 , Treas ., and I . P . M . ; A . Simner , Sec ; Charles F . Pardon , S . D . ; G . II . Finch , J . D . ; Henry Perrett , I . G . ; Van Essen , M . C . ; J . Langton , W . S . ; and VV . Williams , A . W . S . After the banquet which followed the inauguration of
the lodge the VV . M ., Bro . HERIJAGE , in proposing the first toast made a feeling reference to the death of the Duke of Albany , and expressed the wish that the Queen might return from the Continent in renewed health to reign over us for many years to come , and to continue to be Patroness of the Craft . " The M . W . the Grand Master , H . R . H . the Prince of VVales , " met with a hearty reception , and the VV . M . in proposing the next toast said : Brethren , I have
another toast to propose which I am sure will be received with enthusiasm by you ; it is "The Right Worshipful Pro Grand Master , the Earl of Carnarvon ; the Deputy G . M ., the Earl of Lathom ; and the rest of the Grand Officers Present and Past . " I am sure of this , that all of us who have the privilege of going to Grand Lodge can testify most heartily to the zeal and ability with which they do their duty and set an example to the officers of the
Craft . I will not expatiate on their merits , but ask you at once to drink to their health , for 1 can say with confidence that they " came of a gentle , kind , and noble stock . " The WORSHIPFUL MASTER : Brethren , I have now a toast to propose that I am sure must be called the toast of the evening— " The R . W . Prov . Grand Master , the Right
Hon . Lord Brooke , M . P . ; and the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , Frederick A . Philbrick , O . C ., and the rest of the Prov . Grand Officers Present and * Past . " I feel that in the first p lace we are very much indebted to his lordship for allowing us to assume his name as the title of our lodge and also to use his arms , and the kindness that wc have
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Provincial Grand Lodge Of East Lancashire.
nicnt of the financial year there was a balance in the bank of £ 261 , contributions from lodges during the year amounted to £ 430 , and various other receipts brought up the total to £ . S $ 3 . The expenditure side of the account showed that a donation of £ 262 10 s . had been made to the Royal Masonic Institution for Boys , and two donations of £ 50 and £ 51 respectively to the East Lancashire Masonic Educational Institution , and that after the payment of grants of bnnevnlonre and the necessary expenses of the province
there remained a balance in the bank of £ 70 . The accounts were passed , and the thanks of the province were , upon the motion of the Prov . Grand Master , accorded to the
Treasurer . For the office of Prov . Grand Treasurer for the ensuing year two candidates were proposed , viz ., Bro . J . Oakden , 29 S , and J . Leech , 300 . Upon a show of hands the numbers appeared so evenly divided that a division was taken , and the votes were returned as follows : Oakden , 134 ; Leech , 1 ig . It was then intimated that by inadvertence several votes had been counted twice , and a second division was taken , when the numbers recorded were 127 for each candidate . The Prov . Grand Master gave a casting vote
in favour of Bro . Leech , who was declared elected amid much applause . The Provincial Grand Officers for the ensuing year were invested as follows : Bro . George Mellor ( reappointed ) ... Dep . Prov . G . M . „ James Maclaren , 62 Prov . G . S . W . „ I . H . Sillitoe , G 45 Prov . G . J . VV .
„ Rev . VV . R . Clayton , igi ... Prov . G . Chap . „ Rev . E . Parker Prov . G . Asst . C . „ I . Leech Prov . G . Treas . „ | . Chadwick ( re-elected ) ... Prov . G . Sec . „ " I . T . Worth , 3 G 7 Prov . G . Reg . „ A . VV . Siddall , 2 GS Prov . G . S . D . „ L T . Newbold , 1013 1 p — r . in .
„ T . H . Glendinning , 1055 ) ' -J' ' „ I . Morris , 14 6 Prov . G . S . of VV . „ John Roberts , 204 Prov . G . D . C . " II . Grundy , 42 Prov . G . D . D . C „ I . W . Abbott , 1030 Prov . G . A . D . C . " ft . Collins , 54 Prov . G . Swd . Br . „ R . Pilkington , 1392 ^ Prov . G . Std . Brs . „ J . Andrew , 121 9 ) „ S . Mycrscough , 29 S Prov . G . Org .
„ R . Ashworth , 2 SG Prov . G . Purst . „ VV . Davies , 54 Prov . G . A . P . Bros . J . Dcarden , J . Wilkinson , and 7 p G St d T . Livcsey ) ' '
The R . W . P . G . M ., re-investing Bro . John Chadwick as Prov . Grand Secretary , took occasion to speak in terms of high praise of the admirable and satisfactory manner in which he had performed the laborious and important duties appertaining to his office . Col . Starkie proceeded to say that he had no doubt Bro . Chadwick ' s services had been
thoroughly appreciated by the brethren belonging to the numerous lodges in the province as they were by him ( Col . Starkie ) , and to mark his appreciation of them and the confidence he reposed in the P . G . Sec , he felt great pleasure in presenting him with a gold jewel , which he ( the colonel ) hadpurchascd at his own expense . This act of generosity was received with loud applause by the brethren , and Bro . Chadwick acknowledged the
compliment in appropriate terms . The ollice of Prov . G . S . D . was conferred upon Uro . Lieut .-Col . Sowlcr , who was , owing to important duties , unavoidably absent , and upon the Prov . Grand Secretary announcing that a letter of apology had been received from Bro . Sowlcr , the R . W . Prov . Grand Master decided that the office remain vacant , and the brother who had fulfilled the duties thereof during the past year should continue dointr so during the ensuing 12 months .
The Prov . Grand Secretary presented his report on the condition of the Order in East Lancashire , which showed that there were 353 G subscribing members in the province , as against 3 GJ 5 last year . The report was adopted , as was also the report of the Charity Committee . The PROV . GRAND M ASTER then moved that an address of condolence with the Queen and the Duchess of Albany on the loss they have sustained by the death of the Duke of Albany be forwarded in the name of the Freemasons of
East Lancashire . He said that in the death of H . R . H . England had lost a bright and noble Prince who had by his life and conduct . centred within himself the affection of all classes of society . He was endeared to them as Freemasons , by his love for the Order , and esteemed by them as an ornament to Freemasonry . The motion was agreed to . It was resolved on the motion of Bro . C R . N . BESWICKE-ROYDS . P . P . G . S . W ., that the sum of £ 50 be
contributed from the Prov . Grand Lodge Fund in aid of the East Lancashire Systematic Masonic Educational and Benevolent Institution . The motion was seconded and carried , and after some other formal business had been transacted , Provincial Grand Lodge was closed . A procession was then formed , and the brethren attended service at the parish church , at which a sermon was preached by the Prov . Grand Chaplain , and an offertory taken on behalf of the Masonic Charities . Subsequently there was a banquet at the Town Hall , Col . Starkie presiding .
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF WEST YORKSHIRE .
The half-yearly meeting of this body was held at Sheffield on the 23 rd ult ., under the banner of the Britannia Lodge , No . 52 , when there was a very good muster from the Province . The Britannia Lodge was opened by the W . M .,
Uro . Unwin , P . G . S . W ., and his officers at 4 . 15 p . m ., and at 4 . 30 the R . W . Prov . G . M . M . M ., Bro . C . L . Mason , accompanied by his Deputy , Bro . the Rev . W . C . Lukisand other officers , entered the room , when the Provincial Grand Lodge was duly opened and the usual salutations given . The R . W . PROVINCIAL G RAND MASTER thanked the brethren for their kind salutations and hearty reception ,
and having referred to the adhesion of the Prince of Wales to the Mark Degree , and the creation of H . R . H . to the rank of Past Grand Master , then spoke of the loss the Order had sustained in the death of the Duke of Albany . He ( the Provincial Grand Master ) believed their lamented brother took a great interest in Freemasonry , and had his life been spared he would have raised the prestige of the Craft still hig her ; but upon this they must not dwell ; might they say with all reverence and respect , " Rcquicscat in pace , " " till the day dawn and the shadows flee away . " He should ask
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
them later to pass a vote of condolence to Her Majesty the Queen and also to the widowed Duchess . After a passing reference to the origin of the Mark Degree , and its connection with the Royal Arch in Scotland , the Prov . Grand Master proceeded to speak of the position of Mark Masonry under the English Constitution as follows : The present Grand Mark Lodge was formed in June , 1 S 5 G , and comprises several lodges which have worked the Degree for about a
century . Its growth , at first slow , has of late rapidly increased , and there are now between 300 and 400 Lodges working under the English Constitution . At the same time , I , am sorry to say that there has not been very great increase in our own Province , but rather , may I say , a backward tendency . We have on our roll in West Yorkshire nominally eight lodges : two workingunderwarrantsof confirmation time immemorial , viz ., No . 14 , Prince Edward , Eastwood , warrant
of confirmation dated 2 Sth May , 1 SG 2 ; T . I ., Old Vork , Bradford , warrant of confirmation dated Sth November , 1 S 73 ; and six other lodges , viz ., Nos . 53 , Britannia , Sheffield , warrant dated 21 st January , 1 SG 1 ; 5 S , Fearnley , Halifax , 13 th October , 1 S 62 ' ; no , Integrity , Wakefield , nth March , 1 S 70 ; m , Copley , Leeds , 20 th June , 1 S 70 ; 127 , Portal , Dewsbury , 25 th January 1 S 71 ; 137 , Truth , Huddcrsfield , oth August , 1 S 71 . So that during the last
thirteen years wc have had no increase in the number of lodges . At the present time the Prince Edward Lodge has 22 members and 22 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Britannia , 94 members and 14 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Fearnley , 37 members , 20 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Integrity , no return ; Copley , 45 members , and 15 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Portal , no return ; Truth , 23 members , and 14 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers ; Old
York , 59 members , and 16 P . Ms ., Wardens , and Overseers . Now , although nominally we have eight lodges on the roll , practically we have only six lodges ; and from the balancesheet attached to the summons convening this meeting wc find two of these had no additions last year to their number . Brethren , why this apathy ? Is the degree worth nothing ? Has it no symbolical teaching ? I know there is in Freemasonry , like everything else , a time of ebbing and one of
flowing . Trade is bad , and it is said Masonry is a luxury , and the higher degrees greater luxuries , so that wc must deny ourselves , and wait for brighter and more prosperous days . There are others who ignore the degree altogether ; but these I will dismiss without a word . Masonry is a science , and the several degrees are successive steps : " She does not unfold her mysteries to all who seek her shrine . " It hath beer , said of our Degree , "It assists in strengthening
the social affections , it teaches us the duty wc owe to our Brethren in particular , and the whole family of mankind in general , by ascribing praise to the meritorious and dispensing rewards to the diligent and industrious . " May I ask , and ask not in vain , for the kind co-operation of the brethren in resuscitating the dormant lodges in this province , either by rekindling new life into their dying energies , or by the transfer of their warrants to districts
where the degree is more understood and appreciated , so that when my term of office shall expire 1 may hand over to my successor a roll of active lodges , worked by zealous and loyal Mark Master Masons . Having thanked the brethren of the Britannia Lodge for their kindness in making the preparation for and hearty welcome of Provincial Grand Mark Lodge that day , the Prov . Grand Master called attention to the last anathema that had been
hurled against them as Freemasons . They were told that " Freemasonry , which is ever assuming more terrible proportions , aims at the ruin of the throne , the altar , and of the public welfare . " The classification of Freemasonry , socialism , and communism under one category , and the declaration that their common object is the subversion of all civil society and the destruction of reli g ion , was as far as regards Freemasonry such an utter disregard for all
truth , that the language used in the encyclical about to be issued seemed incredible . They , as Freemasons , knew better than that . Did the teaching of "the correction of irregularities and the subjugation of our passions " lead to the dishonour of God , the sovereign , or the welfare of society ? Those charges had been made before , and they would be made again . Resting assured in the dignity and grandeur of their Order , and firm in conscious rectitude .
let them quietly pursue their course , unimpeded by such attacks , so that they might be enabled in all truth to say , " Have we mark'd well , Great Overseer , A work to last beyond our time ? Each his allotted task fulfilled ? The glory and the praise be Thine . " The Prov . Grand Master then again very feelingly spoke of the great loss which the Order had sustained by the sudden death of H . R . H . the Duke of Albany , M . W . Past G . M . M . M ., and moved
that the condolence of the Provincial Grand Lodge be forwarded to Her Majesty the Queen and also to H . R . H . the Duchess of Albany , and that the same be entered on he minutes . This was forcibly seconded by the W . Deputy Provincial Grand Master , supported by other brethren , and carried unanimously . The following are copies of the votes : " To the Queen's Most Excellent Majesty . "
" We , the Mark Master Masons of West Yorkshire , in Provincial Grand Lodge assembled , respectfull y approach your Majosty desiring to express the very profound grief we feel at the loss your Majesty has sustained by the sudden and unexpected removal from amongst us , by the inscrutible will of the Great Overseer of the Universe , of your Majesty's illustrious son , H . R . H . Prince Leopold , Duke of Albany , K . G . Wc remember with gratitude the
great interest H . R . H . the Duke of Albany manifested in the prosperity of the Order to which we belong ; and regret that he has enjoyed for so short a period the high and distinguished ollice he held as Most Worshipfuf Past Grand Mark Master Mason of England and Wales , the Colonies and Dependencies of your Majesty ' s Dominions .
In expressing our condolence , we fervently pray that the Great Overseer of the Universe may endue your Majesty with fortitude to support the heavy trial which has so suddenly overtaken you : and that He may vouchsafe to you a continuance of that health andstrength which conduce to the happiness and welfare of all your Majesty ' s most devoted and faithful subjects . "
" To Her Royal Hi ghness the Duchess of Albany . " We , the Mark Master Masons of West Yorkshire , in Provincial Grand Lodge assembled , respectfully , approach your Royal Highness with an expression of our sincere sympathy with you in the irreparable loss your Royal Highness has sustained by the untimel y death of your beloved husband , our deeply lamented Most Worshipful Past Grand Mark Master Mason , H . R . H . the Duke of Albany , K . G . We remember with pleasure that his
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of West Yorkshire.
Royal Highness was the first of the Royal Princes who joined our Order , and the great interest he at all times manifested in its welfare . In offering our condolence , we trust that it will please the Great Overseer of the Universe to support and comfort your Royal Highness in this your sad bereavement . " The addresses were signed on behalf of the Prov . Grand
Lodge by the Prov . Grand Master . Bro . Monckman , P . P . G . W ., on behalf of the Old York-Lodge , r . L , having invited the R . W . Prov . G . M . M . M . to hold the annual meeting at Bradford , in October next , the l rov . Grand Lodge was duly closed , and the brethren spent an exceedingly pleasant evening together , until the time arrived for the various trains to take them to their respective homes .
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
CONSECRATION OF THE BROOKE LODGE , No . 2005 , CHINGFORD .
The consecration of the Brooke Lodge took place at the Forest Hotel , Chingford , on Tuesday last , when Lord Brooke , the Prov . Grand Master for Essex was announced as the consecrating officer , and Bro . Frederick A . Philbrick , the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , as the installing officer . Unfortunately the exigencies of his parliamentary duties
prevented Lord Brooke being present , and under the circumstances the whole of the presidential duty of inaugurating the new lodge fell upon the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , who however was , as mi g ht be expected of him , fully equal to the occasion , and performed the entire ceremony in a most perfect manner , assisted by Bros . Richard Clowes , as S . W . ; VV . Sowman , as J . W . ; Rev . C II . Roberts , as Chap . ; Thomas J . Dalling , as S . D .: I . I . Cavile , as
J . D .: A . Lucking , as D . C . ; and J . W . Hair , P . P . G . Reg ., as Tyler . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Carl Reichclmann , assisted by Bros . E . J . Bell , Charles Beckett , James Brown , and A . L . Fryer . During the ceremony the acting Chaplain , the Rev . C H . ROHERTS , delivered an oration , in which he said that there seemed but little doubt that an oration on the principles of Freemasonry formed an important item in the
ceremony of the consecration of a new lodge . Perhaps at no period of its existence had the Order been of greater prominence than it was now , not only from the fact of the exalted social position of their M . W . G . M ., but by the unerring proof of its reality shown in the increase of the numbers of our lodges and members , and the support given by them to our most excellent Charitable Institutions . Wc must not forget , however , that Freemasonry was attracting
the attention of the whole world , and disparaging remarks were made against it which , even if true of any foreign ritual , could not with truth be urged against English Freemasonry . There mi ght be many brethren who would consider the knowledge in their own heart that the calumnies were false was sufficient , and that might be so in one sense , but not in another ; sufficient because Masons were independent of external judgment , but not sufficient unless
Masons learned how the surmise originated , and were willing to be taught a lesson thereby . Brethren must not forget the reverence they owe to the Most High , and must always remember that our lodges are dedicated to Him . There could not be too much caution exercised in encompassing this object . In a new lodge extra precautions were necessary , as many were ready to rush into a new lodge so as to obtain rapid promotion . He urged them to
learn its particular lesson from each article of the lodge furniture , and that the sacred writings be taken as a guide to our faith . Ever remember , said the rev . brother , the five points of friendshi p in deed as well as in word . Let us ensure pious behaviour in lodge , nor let there be any contradiction thereto by the conduct outside its walls . Thus , brethren , wc shall promote the true welfare of our Order , then will the Most High bless us in our work ; oursccrct arts and
hidden mysteries will be more precious to us , and our more careful lives may show the world we arc controlled by a Supreme Being , to whom one day we must render an account . Let us go on with boldness to benefit one another and thus enrich ourselves , and may the world know thus much of our mysteries that a Freemason is a good man because a God-fearing one ; that a Mason is one to whom the burdened heart may pour forth its sorrows , to
whom the distressed may prefer their suit ; whose hand is guided by justice , and whose heart is expanded by benevolence . Freemasonry will thus be a blessing to its members , an ornament to the world , and an honour to its first great founder . Having concluded the consecration ceremony , Bro . Philbrick installed the Master designate , Bro . Wm . Herbage , first Master of the Brooke Lodsrc . and concluded bv
delivering the customary addresses to the Master , the Wardens , and members of the lodge . Bro . Herbage then invested his officers as follows : Bros . J . R . Johnson , S . W . ; . 1 . Saddler Wood , J . W . ; Jos . Clcver . P . M . 171 , Treas ., and I . P . M . ; A . Simner , Sec ; Charles F . Pardon , S . D . ; G . II . Finch , J . D . ; Henry Perrett , I . G . ; Van Essen , M . C . ; J . Langton , W . S . ; and VV . Williams , A . W . S . After the banquet which followed the inauguration of
the lodge the VV . M ., Bro . HERIJAGE , in proposing the first toast made a feeling reference to the death of the Duke of Albany , and expressed the wish that the Queen might return from the Continent in renewed health to reign over us for many years to come , and to continue to be Patroness of the Craft . " The M . W . the Grand Master , H . R . H . the Prince of VVales , " met with a hearty reception , and the VV . M . in proposing the next toast said : Brethren , I have
another toast to propose which I am sure will be received with enthusiasm by you ; it is "The Right Worshipful Pro Grand Master , the Earl of Carnarvon ; the Deputy G . M ., the Earl of Lathom ; and the rest of the Grand Officers Present and Past . " I am sure of this , that all of us who have the privilege of going to Grand Lodge can testify most heartily to the zeal and ability with which they do their duty and set an example to the officers of the
Craft . I will not expatiate on their merits , but ask you at once to drink to their health , for 1 can say with confidence that they " came of a gentle , kind , and noble stock . " The WORSHIPFUL MASTER : Brethren , I have now a toast to propose that I am sure must be called the toast of the evening— " The R . W . Prov . Grand Master , the Right
Hon . Lord Brooke , M . P . ; and the Dep . Prov . Grand Master , Frederick A . Philbrick , O . C ., and the rest of the Prov . Grand Officers Present and * Past . " I feel that in the first p lace we are very much indebted to his lordship for allowing us to assume his name as the title of our lodge and also to use his arms , and the kindness that wc have