Coat of Arms

A spectacular event in Sophia by Bulgarian masons to raise money for Braille machines took place at the end of last year. By all accounts, it was very successful with many machine being purchased and along with the Widows’ Sons (see last month’s Cross Keys), it is obvious that Freemasonry is booming in Bulgaria.

Where?

The statue of St. Andrew can be seen at the from of the Grand Lodge building in George Street, Edinburgh. It’s above the front door! Next time you’re there, have a look up—there are some amazing pieces of masonry around all our towns, but too often high up and we walk past these everyday.

This is the third Freemason’s Hall so where was the first? See December’s edition!

In2017 to coincide with the UGLE’s 300th Anniversary, the Isle of Man issued stamps with various curious details. These depict the jewels of the master, wardens, deacons, inner guard and steward. On each stamp are some curious details: 1. the GPS references to various places associated with the Craft (Air Ambulance landing pads, Paternoster Square, Freemasons’ halls, etc). 2. various lodge names 3. another GPS 4. the name of the office for the jewel 5. each backing is different relating to designs in Freemasons’ Hall such as windows or ceilings 6. Around each stamp are the initials HRHDOKGM50— for the Duke of Kent’s 50 years as Grand Master 7. Glazier Design 2017 8. the office-bearers jewels, all in gold 9. The Queen’s head and Isle of Man in gold foil 10. Under infra red lights, the official logo of the UGLE Tercentenary is used as the security device.

More info at: https://www.iompost.com/stamps-coins/collection/300-years-of-freemasonry/

The Steward