The Cross Keys September 2019
Cross Keys September 2019
The Monthly Newsletter of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No.242
Number 220
From the Editor The recess (if you get one) is over and we’re hopefully all ready for the next session leading onto installations. We have a 1, 2, 3, AGM and a Sportsman’s Dinner to look forward to prior to our installation in November. Congratulations also to a well known PM of the lodge after 50 years continuous service and still in office and another made an Honorary Member in England. See Pages 17 & 18 find out more.
Cover— a cube, pyramid and axe see Page 4.
Sportsman’s Dinner on Friday 4th October tickets from Bro. Stuart Black PM
The Cross Keys is a free magazine distributed across the many countries in order to spread the good (and sometimes not so good) qualities of the Craft. All views are of individual brothers and not any organised body. Editor: Bro. N. Grant Macleod PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 PM of The Anchor Lodge of Research No.1814 Past Provincial Grand Secretary of the Province of Renfrewshire East. Proof Reader: Bro. Allan Stobo PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 Treasurer 242
All Scottish Constitution.
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In this issue: 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19
420 Years of the Craft? Broached Thurnel What does the Craft Offer? Square & Compasses Comedy Part 2 Masonic Island Bro. Edward Bledge PM 426 Obligations Installation Ceremony Aberdeen Masonic Chart Symbolism of the Opening Grand Lodge of Russia Bro. Allan Stobo PM Honorary Member Obligations…...
September Meetings Thursday 12th EA Degree Thursday 26th FC Degree 7.30pm start
420 Years of Freemasonry? In October of 2018 Vincent Hoffman (Stamp Finder General) sent us notice of this postal oddity, (shown at the end) reputed to have been issued by the Republic of Congo. I think we all understand the difficulties we encounter with postage stamps being issued unofficially under the heading of some countries. But this MS, official or otherwise was unusual in that it celebrated 420 years of Freemasonry. As we had just celebrated the Tercentenary we felt this additional 120 years needed a little research. In 1583, William Schaw (right) was appointed by King James VI (below, became James I of England) as Master of the Work and Warden General with the Commission of re-organising the Masonic craft. In 1598, he issued the first of the now famous “Schaw Statutes� which set out the duties of all members to the Lodge and to the public. These statutes were formally adopted in 1598 at a conference of Scottish Lodges. The statute was agreed by all the master masons present, and arrangements were made to send a copy to every lodge in Scotland. The statute indicates a significant advance in the organisation of the craft, with shires constituting an intermediate level of organisation. These "territorial" lodges ran parallel to another set of civic organisations, incorporations, often linking masons with other workers in the building trades, such as wrights. While in some places (Stirling and Dundee), the lodges and incorporations became indistinguishable, in other places the incorporation linked the trade to the burgh, and became a mechanism whereby the merchants exercised some control over the wages of the building trades.
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In places like Edinburgh, where the proliferation of wooden buildings meant a predominance of wrights (workers and builders), the territorial lodge offered a form of craft selfgovernance distinct from the incorporation. Also, the masons and wrights used differing ceremonial motifs, at the respective events. The role of deacon provided a link between these incorporations and the Lodges. It also imposed penalties for unsatisfactory work and inadequate safety during work. More importantly, for Freemasons today, Schaw drew up a second Statute in 1599. The importance of this document lies in the fact that it makes the first, veiled, reference to the existence of esoteric knowledge within the craft of stone masonry. It also reveals that The Mother Lodge of Scotland, Lodge Mother Kilwinning, No.0, was in existence, and active, at that time. The impact of these statutes was dramatic. His instructions, to all LODGES (not incorporations), that they must begin to keep written records, meet at specific times, test annually, members in the 'Art of Memory' and enter Apprentices in the Lodge records. This meant that Lodges became fixed, permanent, institutions. It is also why the earliest known masonic records date from this time. It can safely be said, therefore, that William Schaw was the founding father of modern Freemasonry. In the late 16th and early 17th Centuries, important men, who were not Masons to trade, were admitted to Scottish Lodges. Exactly why such men were attracted to Scottish Freemasonry is not known. It may have been simple curiosity. In any event their social position gave Lodges an element of legitimacy and status. Others joined as literacy and education spread throughout the country which
420 Years of Freemasonry? (ctd) assisted Lodges to maintain funds. It is often said that Sir Robert Moray (below) was the first known non-operative member of a Lodge. Whilst important, (he was the first to be recorded as being initiated on English soil) his initiation, in 1641, was not the first initiation of a nonstonemason into a Lodge. Others who preceded him probably include: William Schaw himself, and his assistant, James Boswell of Auch-
inleck (below). They are believed to have been initiated in 1598.
My grateful thanks go to the editor of The Masonic Philatelic Club, Mo Elston, which produces a quarterly magazine full of historical information linking people places, and achievements in Freemasonry portrayed on postage stamps. Their site is: www.masonicphilatelicclub.org
Cost of membership is UK ÂŁ10 pa. Rest of the World ÂŁ15pa For further information or to obtain an application form, please email: masonicphilatelicclub@yahoo.co.uk
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Symbolism of a Broached Thurnel A what you may ask!!! Indeed. Well here it is.
Q: A: Q: A:
What are the immovable Jewels of the Lodge? The tracing board, the rough Ashlar and the broached Thurnel What are their uses? The tracing board is for the Master to draw his designs on, the rough Ashlar is for the Companions to try their Jew els upon and the Broached Thurnel is for the Entered Apprentice to learn to work on.
An old French ritual shows the symbol below:
British freemasonry only considers the rough and perfect ashlar. However, it is regularly used in Continental Freemasonry and is shown in the tracing boards of the French Scottish Rite. The object is the pointed cubical stone similar in appearance to a church tower or to a cube with a pyramidal top. We are aware of the symbolism of the apprentice working to become a FC and finally a MM represented by the transformation of the rough to smooth ashlar. Further to that symbolism, we have the pyramid which represents the approaching end of life so ably described and explained in the MM degree. It can also be said that the tip of the pyramidal shape of the cubic stone represents the “centre of the world”, the opening onto the divine, the meeting point between the manifested and the unmanifested. In our old rituals, it was known as a broached turnel, thrunal, thurmer or turner; broached dornal or dornel; broached mal and broad oval. An old Masonic catechism refers to the pointed cubic stone like this:
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It is worth noting that in the tracing board of the French Scottish Rite, the pointed cubic stone is always depicted with an hammer or an axe (see front cover) laying horizontally on its tip as if were symbolising a thunderbolt that falls from the sky – see how closely it is drawn to the sun – onto the stone (the earth) and breaking it open. It is an allegory of the divine entering the human heart and enlightening it with the truth.
What does the Craft Offer? The Craft is a source of great joy to many brethren—I would say most, but we all know brethren who complain at every meeting and have nothing positive to contribute to anything. Quite why they attend is beyond me. However, for the most of us, it is a lifelong pursuit with a huge amount of inspiration (and perspiration). The following are some things that immediately come to mind and I’m sure every brother can add more:
Camaraderie—friendship, being involved in a world wide club has huge attractions for all men Meeting brethren from all walks of life and rank Learning ritual—yes, this is a source of enjoyment for many brethren and although with many current times scales, the lodge (I think) should always strive to deliver ritual in the time honoured fashion. Other Orders may approach this differently due to pressures on brethren. Secretary or treasurer—not everyone’s cup of tea, but many brethren love working in these posts; often enjoying the power associated with these offices. However, as every lodge knows, these are essential and good ones are necessary to hang onto to. Almoner—again, very important and many brethren just love visiting older or unwell brethren. Charity—another aspect of the Craft which is common in local newspapers. Although only one of many aspects, this seems to get more press other than bad news! Working in the kitchen or social club—another essential aspect in the life of the lodge. Joining clubs to collect mark pennies, stamps or jewels—apart from the enjoyment of the actual collecting, this also provides another aspect of different brethren coming together in fellowship. Joining other Orders—similar to above where you can meet brethren from other lodges and witness different degrees/grades relating to the bigger picture of freemasonry demonstrated from a new angle. Learning what the ritual means (as opposed to learning the ritual) - many brethren research the allegory and symbolism of the ritual which can take a lifetime depending how long you are willing to spend. Historical aspects—another huge area whether it be the lodge, province or Craft as a whole. We are taught we must know from whence we come so understanding the past allows us to understand out traditions and ensure important aspects are maintained.
I have no doubts, every brother could name one more . . . .
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The Square & The Compasses The Square and Compasses have long been recognised as symbols of Freemasonry and their use within the Craft and other Orders is well known, but the Square, at least, has been portrayed in many cultures, as a symbol of morality, for well over 2,500 years and with very similar lessons as those taught by Freemasons. It is worth noting, at this point, that, in English Freemasonry, the word “Compasses” is always used in the plural, often expressed as a pair; used in the singular, “Compass” refers to the single, magnetic pointed instrument, used for direction finding in surveying, cartography and navigation. Although universal in concept the emblem takes many different forms and may be confusing when it appears on internet web-sites in the form of jewellery or emblazoned on clothing. The figure shown at the top of this article is an equal-sided square, apex pointing down, surmounted by a pair of compasses, points downward, with an empty space in the centre. This is used in the English Constitution. When seen with the letter “G” in the centre, it usually indicates that it is of United States provenance, the origins of which stem from mother Scottish Lodges where that addition is to be found. In Irish Freemasonry the inserted letter “G” indicates that the wearer is a Past Master. There are occasions when the symbol is displayed with the square placed over the compasses , or when one arm of the compasses is the square whilst the other is. Neither of these is acceptable in English Masonry although the EA and FC will be able to explain this in Scottish lodges. A problem might occur when Brethren, or often a member of their family, makes a present of a pair of Masonic cufflinks, or tie-pin, for example, and they are in the form of Square and Compasses but with the letter “G” clearly superimposed in the centre. This may well cause embarrassment later when an overzealous Brother, with no malice aforethought, points out the “error” to the thus mortified Brother. This might have been prevented if the offended Brother had known the protocol beforehand. Unfortunately, if seen on an English website, it is easy to assume that it is acceptable under the English Constitution. It must be remembered, however, that suppliers of regalia, and associated Masonic items, sell their wares all over the world and are made to suit all Constitutions. Since Freemasonry has become more “open” to public gaze it is of greater importance that we understand fully the implications of what is on show and whether it relates to the English Constitution, or another Constitution, irrespective of its relationship with the United Grand Lodge of England. Thanks to Bro. David J. Rosser PPGM (Jersey)
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Comedy and English Freemasons Part 2
Bro. Roger De Courcey is a British ventriloquist best known for performing with Nookie Bear. He was the winner of the 1976 New Faces televised talent competition grand final an is another member of Chelsea Lodge No. 3098.
Robert Alan "Bob" Monkhouse, OBE was an English entertainer. He was a successful comedy writer, comedian and actor and was also well known on television as a presenter and game show host. Chelsea Lodge No.3098.
Bradley Walsh is a British entertainer, actor, television presenter and former professional footballer. Westminster City Council Lodge London, No. 2882.
Bro. Peter Sellers, CBE, was a British film actor, comedian and singer. He performed in the BBC Radio comedy series The Goon Show and the Pink Panther films. Member of………………..Chelsea Lodge No. 3098
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Masonic Island Lake Metigoshe lies across the U.S.Canadian line. About 1.5 miles south of the Canadian boundary is a 7.2-acre spot of land, Masonic Island. It’s interesting history has been chronicled by James Savaloja, Past Grand Master and Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge of North Dakota. The island was owned by Brother V.B. Noble, a member of Tuscan Lodge, who purchased it from the Government in 1899. The first Masonic meeting was held there in 1906, when Tuscan Lodge opened Lodge, and then permitted Westhope Lodge to confer the Master Mason Degree. Over the years, the island was frequently used for Masonic meetings, with attendance sometimes reaching 500 or more. A complete outdoor Lodge room and a staircase leading up from the dock were built in 1935. In 1933, the land was transferred from Brother Noble's estate to the North Dakota Masonic Foundation, and was dedicated by the Grand Lodge in 1934. According to MW Brother Savaloja, "It is known fact that Masonic Island was probably the first place where visas to enter the United States were lifted for Masons of Canada during WWII by an agreement between President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Mackenzie King, who were both members of the Fraternity. "This agreement stated that the Canadian Masons could enter the United States by boat from the north shore of Lake Metigoshe, which is in Canada. As long as their feet never touched the shoreline of the lake in the U.S., and they landed only at Masonic Island when a meeting would be held, they would not be in violation of our wartime rules of entry." Today, Masonic Island is being restored as a special historic location in the Turtle Mountains. The island lays claim to being the only spot in the area untouched by the fires and other disasters of nature which decimated old growths of oak trees and other flora and fauna. Because of the island's location in the centre of the lake, it has some of the oldest trees and most unusual plants in the state.
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Bro. Edward Bledge PM Hon. Asst. G. Sec. On14th May, 2019, Bro. Edward Bledge PM and Past Secretary of 426 received his 70 Diploma for 70 years in the Scottish Craft. He was presented with the diploma by the master of his mother lodge Prince of Wales No.426 and can be seen with his sons, Bro. Willie (left) and Bro. Alistair (right). Formal deputations were received from the Grand Lodge of Scotland which was headed by Bro. John Herrick SGM and the PGLRE headed by Bro. Neil Fraser PGM. About 130 signed the book which shows the respect that Bro. Eddie is held across the Province. Below right is the plaque in the POW showing the various 426 brethren who have received Honorary Grand Rank—the last one being Bro. Bobby Collins PM who gave a fitting recap of Bro. Eddie’s masonic career and his earlier life starting from the University of Glasgow.
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...follow your enlightened guide with a firm but humble confidence…...who have been well and worthily recommended and now come of their own free will …..to be admitted into the ancient mysteries and privileges of ancient freemasonry. Well, the ritual may very slightly from lodge to lodge, but the sentiment is the same for every EA. The next time you witness the degree, listen and think about these words. “This part of the ceremony symbolises the progress of human intelligence, from a state of ignorance, to the highest state of civilisation and mental enlightenment.” These few words show the great amount of learning ahead of the candidate—study of the ritual is essential, study of external sources is essential and diligent thought and constant study will enable the candidate to understand these ancient mysteries of the Craft.
1900 Advert Old rituals and constitution book often had loads of adverts—very often the printer also was involved with regalia. Some are quite interesting. Here we see 3 types of MM aprons—dress, working and ? Mark Aprons were also for sale which are no longer used in a Scottish lodge so this is probably the English market. Knight Templar and Red Cross of Constantine aprons—again now no longer in use. Similarly, aprons for the 18th and 31st are not worn by members.
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Installation Ceremony (April 1874) About 1871, the Grand Lodge of Scotland recognised the PM’s degree or installation degree. The article then goes n a great length to give it weight in terms of the duties and responsibilities of a master and should be imperative that every mason will eventually aspire to this essential part of the education of all brethren. The degree “possesses an honorary significance and is justly regarded as a badge of distinction, imparting a standing to those who have received it, which every good mason should strive to ai, at….” One duty is if PM is visiting a lodge then, in the absence of a master, he should preside over this lodge rather than a member of that lodge! Another discussion of PMs being ex officio members of GL, but this had been rejected by GL. A suggestion was to create a PM lodge in each Province that would not impinge of PGL functions such as reviewing the working of degrees (lodges of instruction?), to confer degrees in lodges unable to confer a degree themselves, improve the forms of admission (type of mentoring?) and to meet across the Province. Sounds like a good idea, but nothing came of it—Ed.
St. John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group Bro. Angus Rhodes, a reader of the Cross Keys and well known to many brethren of 242, is raising funds for the Eye Hospital in Jerusalem. The Order of St John is a splendid organisation, which is a modern continuation of the work of the ancient Hospitallers of St John, who founded a Hospital in Jerusalem in the Eleventh Century. In the United Kingdom we know them for providing voluntary services via the St John Ambulance, but they also provide extensive services via the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group to various people in Israel and Palestine regardless of race, creed or ability to pay. He is nearly 50% on the way to his target of £11,670 and it would be great if any brother can help him—see the just giving page below to donate. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/angus-rhodes
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Masonic Chart from Aberdeen
Published by George Kenning, April 1867 Respectfully Dedicated (by permission) To J. Whyte Melville Esq're of Bennochy, The Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason of Scotland, By His Humble Servant William Garey. The chart shows all the usual working tools and common emblems, but some are less common or have fall into disuse. For example, to the right of the ladder is the ark which is an emblem of safety and trust in God to waft us securely o’er the tempestuous sea of life to a safe harbour. To the left of the ladder is the beehive which is an emblem of industry. Idleness, which is the parent of immorality and ruin, is severely reproved by this symbol. By industry we may enjoy the luxuries of life, avoid vice and temptation, and merit respect, by adding knowledge to the understanding, so we may not be considered a useless drone in the busy hive of nature. An attentive hear is to be given to brethren more wise than yourself, and to the calls of a distressed brother. Listening to a brother can often be of better value to them than money.
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Masonic Chart from Aberdeen (ctd)
The scythe is an emblem of time which cuts the brittle thread of life and launches us into eternity. It should remind us how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away. The spade is an emblem reminding us that “all nature dies and lives again” and that this world is the tilling ground of heaven to cultivate out morals and improve out knowledge so as to strengthen out outlook in life. We should look beyond the grave and rely on God to raise our souls to everlasting happiness. The faithful heart is necessary to keep our obligations to one another and the Craft as a whole. The hour glass is an emblem of human life—as the sand passes through the glass so do the moments of our life until the wave of time is swallowed up by the billows of eternity. The broken column is rarely used in Scotland, but clearly had been. It is emblematical of the frailty of man and all things human.
These have most definitely been great aide memoires for brethren over the years and although none have really been done on a national scale in the last few years, they can still serve the brethren well.
The Masonic Flag of France The Supreme Council of France, some years since, originated a decree by which Masonic sailors should, be more readily able to ask assistance, in time of need, from other ships, manned or commanded by brethren of the Order. This very useful suggestion consists in hoisting a flag bearing a square and circle on a blue ground. To change this sign of recognition into one o£ distress, the method is to reverse it similarly to the mode adopted in the French Navy with the national flag under the like circumstances. So useful has this been found that the Supreme Grand Council have communicated the sign, plan, and its objects, to all recognised grand bodies throughout the universe, and since 1842 the system has been worked with great advantage. Published in Freemasons’ Magazine and Mirror, 22nd November, 1862 Cross Keys September 2019
Symbolism of the Opening The opening of a Lodge is a ceremony, but do we really consider what it means? It certainly settles us down and relaxes us so that we can enjoy and benefit from the masonic business which is to follow. Let us start by considering the roles of the three principle officers: •
The Junior Warden represents the instinctive man, who has been refined by learning the moral code set out in the first degree;
•
The Senior Warden represents the thinking man, who is improved by education;
•
The Master represents the spiritual man, whose whole being has been developed through contemplation.
•
The Tyler confirms that the Lodge is protected from improper interruption, so the Brethren may relax in security.
•
The Inner Guard, who is the only person to communicate with that outer world confirms that all is well.
The Junior Warden confirms that the Junior Deacon is there to deliver messages from the Worshipful Master, which he (as Junior Warden has to comply with. To put this another way, the instinctive man has become subordinate to the spiritual. The Senior Warden confirms that the Senior Deacon is there to bring to him the messages and commands of the Master. The thinking man too, has become subordinate to the spiritual. The Junior Warden then acknowledges his duties, especially in respect of the summoning of the Brethren to and from labour. So that, through a balance between labour or contemplation, on the one hand and ensuring that the physical needs of the body are provided, which is his especial responsibility, profit and pleasure will result.
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Grand Lodge of Russia Annual Communication
The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Russia was held in St. Petersburg in June and was a very successful event. One curious photo shows the various aprons on the chairs for the brethren.
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Congratulations To Bro. Allan Stobo PM Chaplain seen here caught off guard—smiling!!!!! Bro. Allan was presented with his 50 Year Jubilee Certificate by the master Bro. George Barclay last May. Bro. Allan was master in 1981 with an average attendance of 121. Although many masters averaged over 100, this is a lodge record. Also during Allan’s year, it was proposed to increase the number of candidates per meeting to 5!! Changed days indeed. However, at that time Grand Lodge issued a warning about the quality of candidates entering. Perhaps there was a lesson as out of 5, lodges hoped to get 1 or 2 who would stay long term. Congratulations Allan!
Warning!!!! Look who’s in town!!!! Thanks to Bro. Craig Chambers who found this walking down the road in Braintree, Massachusetts, US. Can you imagine this in Scotland? We have war memorials being vandalised . . .
Would the council even allow it? Probably not, but ignorance of our practices and bias journalism is an enemy that has always existed. However, that does not detract from our Craft and from the fact that we are all aware of the good that is done worldwide in the name of masonry. That’s the real secret!!!
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Congratulations To Bro. Graham Scott PM on be awarded Honorary Membership at our good friends from Selsdon Park Lodge No.5005. Some well kent faces in the photo, all of whom I think have been to 242: Kevin (master), Tony C and Tony P, Phil, Geoff, Ian, Fraser (242) including wee Angus sneaking in on the right hand side!!!
King of Arms The Master of Lodge Sir Robert Moray No. 1641 in Edinburgh Bro. The Honourable Adam Bruce (left), Marchmont Herald, alongside Most Excellent First Grand Principal and Past Grand Master Mason, Bro. Dr. Joseph Morrow CBE, The Right Honourable the Lord Lyon King of Arms. Both brethren looking resplendent in their uniform. Bro. Bruce might well become better known to many brethren over the next few years.
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Visitor to 242 At the MMM degree in May, Bro. Costa Trizis PM and Master of Aegean Lodge of Mark Masters in London was welcomed into the lodge. After a very competent and slightly humorous rendition, the brethren retired to the Social Club and Bro. Costa presented the master and the master’s room with Lephroig—all the brethren were most delighted! Bro. Costa has been to a number of degrees in 242 (although not a MM— perhaps a possible candidate…..) and is often in London when our brethren are in town.
Obligations... Many brethren complain about the length of obligations or that it is the most uninteresting part of a ceremony. Strangely enough, this has not always been the case. For example, the Duke of Atholl (Lord Glenlyon) became Grand Master o the Order of the Temple in 1846 (Templars) and his obligation was: I, George Augustus Frederick John, voluntarily promise and swear that I will govern the Order of the Temple, with paternal affection, defend the Holy Cross, observe and order to be observed the Statutes, Laws and Decrees of the Order, and expend my strength and life for the honour, defence and safety of every Brother of the Order. This obligation was as Grand Master of a whole order so perhaps they don not need to be of such a length as to be off putting. The Hippocratic Oath for the medical profession varies from place to place, but most include: • •
• • • •
Of solidarity with teachers and other physicians. Of beneficence (to do good or avoid evil) and non-maleficence (from the Latin 'primum non nocere', or 'do no harm') towards patients. (In fact the well-known "first do no harm" phrase does not feature in the classical Hippocratic Oath.) Not to assist suicide. To leave surgery to surgeons. Not to harm, especially not to seduce patients. To maintain confidentiality and never to gossip.
Perhaps it is time to ‘modernise’ our obligations? I can hear the groans at such a suggestion, but maybe it really is time….. Cross Keys September 2019
In Memoriam It is with deep sadness and much regret that we have to inform you of a loss sustained to the craft in Renfrewshire in the passing to the Grand Lodge above of the following Brother: Bro. Phil Denney PM 5005 (EC)
To submit an article or want added to the mail list or Facebook group, contact the Editor, Grant Macleod: E-Mail:
sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk
Website: http://lodge242.bravesites.com/
Cross Keys September 2019