Cross Keys April 2021 (Freemasonry)

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Stewards’ Lodges in England Basically, the red apron and collar is a means of crimson aprons and collars. The nomination of identification - in 1721 the Grand Master Elect Stewards remains the right of Stewards’ Lodge. ordered the Grand Wardens to take some stewards to assist at the approaching festival. This Nowadays, the Grand Master annually appoints was the start of the stewards system. By 1734 the 19 Grand Stewards, nominated respectively by 19 numbers had increased from 6 to 12. Interesting- separate lodges enjoying the privilege of recomly, in 1735 Grand Lodge resolved that “for the fu- mendation. These Grand Stewards rank as Grand ture all Grand Officers (except the Grand Master) Officers during their year of Office. Their duties shall be selected out of that body.” In the same are to regulate the Grand Festival under the year the Grand Stewards were granted the right Grand Masters direction and to assist in arranging to form themselves into a special Lodge, which for the Quarterly Communications and other should be represented by 12 members, each hav- meetings of Grand Lodge, under the direction of ing one vote, at each communication of Grand the Grand DC. Past or present Grand Stewards Lodge, instead of the ordinary three members – alone have the privilege of becoming members of the Master and his Wardens – and that Past Stew- the Grand Stewards’ Lodge, which, constituted as ards should wear a particular jewel and the usual a Master Masons’ Lodge, has no power of making, red ribbon.

passing or raising masons. If you are interested in becoming one - The Grand Stewards’ also make

In 1792 the Stewards’ Lodge became the Grand a considerable personal contribution towards the Stewards’ Lodge with the right to head the list of cost of the Banquet at the Annual Investiture ! Lodges without a number – a position it still holds. It has met at Freemasons’ Tavern and Thanks to PGL of Warwickshire. Freemasons’ Hall since 1772. Its members wear

Cross Keys April 2021

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