Universities Scheme newsletter - Autumn 2018

United Grand Lodge of England

Universities Scheme

Newsletter

December 2018 | Issue 7

Canterbury in winter from the University of Kent, (Served by St. Augustine Lodge No. 972)

Welcome Welcome to a new term and to our Winter Newsletter. Your Scheme Committee has been working hard over the summer and autumn, implementing the strategy I outlined at the Scheme Conference last year. This strategy includes:

• Improving services to our

member Lodges and Chapters;

• Developing Talent Transfer -

•

statistics show recruitment is strong, but we are losing many brethren when they graduate and relocate. You will see much more on this in our next issue; Royal Arch - we are working with the Supreme Grand Chapter to share the success of the Scheme in the Royal Arch,

Freshers’ Fairs

•

where we already have five pilot chapters; Overseas Districts, the Scheme is established in South Africa and the Caribbean, but in our global fraternity, and with the number of overseas students at our universities, we want to support Districts to develop this further.

In addition to our new strategy, our first ‘How to’ Guide is now available. You can read more on this later in this newsletter. Work is also in hand on others too (Social Media and Almoners). Plus, our handbook has been revised, the website improved, we have a new vice chairman, David RobertsJones, and several new committee

AMULL Festival

Many of you have been engaged with Freshers’ Fairs across the country. We take a look at some of the work you have been doing and the results it has generated. Read about this on Page 4.

members, and work is in hand for a training day for Visiting Officers to take place early in the New Year.

So lots of work, lots of fun, and plenty more to come. Enjoy this issue. Thanks to our editor, Howard Griffin for his hard work, and if you want your Lodge featured, please be in touch!

Mark Greenburgh, Chairman

Introducing: In this issue of the newsletter we start a new feature focusing on our member lodges and chapters.

In this first venture, we speak to Apollo University Lodge No. 357 in Oxford and a founding lodge of the Scheme. Read more on Page 2.

The Association of Medical, University and Legal Lodges held its annual festival this October. We look at what AMULL represents and why it is good for your Lodge or Chapter to join. Find out more on Page 4 Page 1

Introducing:

Apollo University Lodge No. 357

‘Introducing:’ is a new feature in the newsletter, which looks in closer detail at our member lodges and chapters. First in line is Apollo University Lodge, a founding member of the scheme. Our editor, Howard Griffin talks to Daniel Hayward to find out more.

HG: When was Apollo Lodge consecrated?

DH: Apollo University Lodge No.357 is the Lodge for members of the University of Oxford, and was the first ever ‘University’ Lodge, being consecrated in 1819 and meeting continuously ever since.

Initially the Lodge was warranted as Apollo Lodge No.711 and the first meeting was held on 10th February 1819. In the first five months of its being in existence, the Lodge met no less than eleven times. 23 gentlemen were initiated from eight colleges, including 3 Lords (Cholmondeley, Leveson-Gower and Dunglass) and 2 waiters from the Star Inn. 12 Brethren were passed and 12 were raised.

During the early months of its existence the Lodge Passed and Raised its new initiates long before the statutory month had elapsed between the ceremonies. When informed that the Lodge had been acting against the Constitutions in passing and raising several brethren too speedily and that consequently its members were liable to be summoned before the Board of General Purposes and for the Lodge to be erased, the Lodge decided to petition for forgiveness, pleading that as

technically the Book of Constitutions was being revised when the Lodge was formed, they had no copy from which to know what rules and regulations to obey, and neither could obey summons to appear in London during term time. Some would say a typical excuse from students!

HG: How did it all start?

DH: The origin of the Apollo Lodge, as it was called in the beginning, dates from a meeting held in Brasenose College on 24th May 1818. At the meeting it was resolved to form a Lodge on the granting of permission from the Vice-Chancellor of the University, as well as the granting of a charter from the then Grand Master.

The Lodge initially met at the Star Inn until a more convenient place could be found exclusively for meetings.

HG: How regularly do you meet?

DH: We meet six times a year, and hold two ceremonies performed at each meeting. This means that the number of initiates each year is significantly high although may not reach the heady heights of 1864 when as many as 63 were initiated.

HG: Do you have good links with the University of Oxford?

DH: The Apollo has played a central part in the social life of the University since its consecration, and many today still see it as the premier club/ society to join.

Its influence in University life, both in Oxford and further afield, can be seen in the tradition of May/summer balls, which came about following the inception of such occasions by the Lodge in the 19th century. It became customary for the Lodge to give a Ball in Commemoration Week and also to hold a Garden Party in one of the Colleges. The great occasion was in 1863. The Lodge put on a torchlight procession to celebrate the wedding of the Prince of Wales (a member of the Lodge and later King Edward VII), with a ball being held in Christ Church at a cost of £2,406. The Prince and Princess of Wales duly attended. The balls during this period were tremendously successful, with attendance often over 3,000.

Left: Members of Apollo University Lodge Page 2

Introducing:

Apollo University Lodge No. 357

HG: Are there any activities that you undertake to foster relations with the University/Student Union?

DH: Due to the popularity of the Lodge and its standing within the University, it does not seek to actively recruit. Whilst some interest comes from those who have merely heard of the Lodge, for example by social media, the majority of members are recommended by their friends, and this provides continual momentum each and every year, HG: How many members do you have currently?

DH: As the Lodge established itself, it became popular, and there has been significant demand to join ever since.

This can be seen from the very early days, in the period 1825 to 1844 a total of 258 gentlemen were initiated: an average of 14 a year, and including five Marquesses, two Earls, four Viscounts and nine Lords.

Membership currently stands at just over 200, with many more remaining members of the Apollo Association which ensures they stay in touch with the activities of the Lodge including an annual Association event in London each year. There is a strong social aspect to the Apollo outside of meetings, members regularly meet up for informal drinks and dinner, and there are also 3 formal Steward’s Dinners hosted a year, located in a different College each term.

HG: Have you had any famous members?

DH: The Apollo has been fortunate to have a significant number of notable members too long to enter into any detail here. However, of note is Prince Leopold, a more active member of the Royal Household, who was proposed for initiation in April 1874 on behalf of the Prince of Wales, Past Grand Master. The following year Oscar Wilde was initiated, and Cecil Rhodes joined two years later in 1877. Over the years, many Apollonians have held prestigious positions within the Craft, with the Masonic careers of many Rulers beginning with their initiation into the Lodge.

HG: Apollo’s festive boards are quite renowned. Why? DH: Juxtaposed to the formality and tradition of its workings, the festive board at the Apollo is a lively occasion. An early indicator of this dates back to early in 1837 - two communications were received from Lord Henry John Spencer-Churchill (the PGM), desiring that the practice of cheering after Masonic fire might be discontinued. Those that have visited the Apollo recently will attest that this has well and truly been ignored!

HG: What does Apollo University Lodge have in store for the coming year?

Above: Members singing for their supper

DH: The Apollo has just commenced a yearlong celebration of its bicentenary, which includes a big festival meeting in April 2019 at the Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford. A brief overview of the Lodge history shows that much of what has made Apollo the Lodge it is today was evident in the early years.

The next meeting at The Apollo University Lodge takes place on Saturday, 26th January. If you would like to visit then please contact Daniel Hayward for more information at danielhayward357@gmail.com.

Below: An Apollo visit to Rome

HG: Could you tell us an interesting fact about Apollo?

DH: When the Lodge was first formed, the members petitioned the Grand Master for a dispensation to initiate gentlemen under 21 years of age, stating that those proposed would be of the highest value to the Craft owing both to their character and rank, and be those whose stay in the University was short, and who generally left the country to visit foreign kingdoms.

Hence, the tradition of initiating younger Brethren of University age began, and each and every year dozens of students are initiated below the age of 21, including many international students who leave to continue their Masonry abroad.

Page 3

Freshers’ Fairs Many of you have been engaging with your local universities and higher education institutions through Freshers’ Fairs and Welcome events. We look at some of your experiences.

In Chatham, Kent, members of Pentangle Lodge No. 1174 attended the Medway Freshers’ Fair for the University of Kent, University of Greenwich and Canterbury Christ Church University. W Bro. Roy Salvidge explained that the day was very productive, with a “reasonable number of visitors to our booth, interest ranged from mild curiosity to requests to join.”

Above: Members of Pentangle Lodge No. 1174

In Cardiff, Universities Lodge attended the Freshers Fair for the first time, with members of the Lodge speaking to over 300 intrigued students, handing out pamphlets and CDs of information about the Lodge and Freemasonry in general.

W Bro. Oliver Wannell noted that, “As well as potential recruitment, it was an opportunity to correct any misconceptions that students and staff might have about Freemasonry and working with the Order of Women Freemasons assisted with this task.”

BCU Masonic Society supported by members of Athol Lodge No 74, young masons from the 5 of 9 NYMC Club helped to man the stand The Masonic Society at BCU was formed in 2017 and already one of the senior lecturers at BCU, two alumni, and one student have joined and have joined Athol Lodge.

Above: Stafforshire University with Royce

Universities lodge of Staffordshire once again had a stand at the Freshers’ Fair at Staffordshire University and were helped this year by Bro. Sam Proctor and his guide dog Royce. Royce was hugely popular (as was Sam!) The stand was further manned by other student and non-student Lodge members.

W Bro. Andy Mapperson commented that was “serious interest in the Masonic club at the university, which will be followed up.”

One week later the Lodge also went to Keele University’s fair with encouraging interest from the students.

At Worcester University, Worcester Lodge No. 280 attended their first Freshers’ Fair, finding a very warm welcome and much interest.

W Bro. Douglas Dale, who made most of the arrangements said that with the help of the Worcester New & Young Masons Cub, they had enjoyed a successful event and had solid interest. He said, “It has been hard work, but very rewarding!”

Above: Birmingham City University

Above: Cardiff University Freshers’ Fair

Over 5000 new students passed through the Freshers’ marquee at Birmingham City University. considerable interest was shown in the Masonic Society from both male and female students. The

The University Lodge of Liverpool No. 4274 attended the Freshers Fairs at both the Liverpool University and Liverpool John Moores University.On both occasions they were joined We by our colleagues from the Order of Women Freemasons.

Above: John Moores University Freshers’ Fair

W Bro. Alan Moore noted that, “West Lancs Province has been very generous in their financial support as also has the Gladstone Group of Lodges that we belong to. The response at just one event has been such (50+) that we are considering hiring a hall to conduct a large group briefing and recruiting any committed applicants from that point.

Cumberland Lodge No. 3858, who recently joined the Universities Scheme in June attended their first Fair at Befordshire University. W Bro. Bill Henderson said, “Freshers’ went really well, we were there all day, we were well received, we’ve come away with a dozen or so students wishing to attend our open evening.

We feel we have made a solid start to generating interest in the Scheme and Cumberland Lodge and we are very encouraged” If you haven’t managed to get involved with your local Freshers’ Fairs then remember to look out for the How To Guide coming soon...

Page 4

AMULL Festival The Association of Medical, University and Legal Lodges (AMULL) was formed in 2001 with the aim of bringing professional and academic lodges together.

AMULL continues to be a successful social outlet, holding an annual Festival each Autumn at venues across the country. These events bring together members of professional and academic Lodges, together with wives/partners/ friends, for an inter-faith service, an entertaining lecture and a champagne reception followed by lunch. The Festival this year was held in Leicester, hosted by Wyggeston Lodge No.3448.

One of the core aims of AMULL is supporting Freemasonry in the wider community and, in particular, in higher education, to which end it offers two forms of financial support.

Student Bursaries and Hardship Grants are awarded annually from the charitable donations made at AMULL Festivals to support students in need.

Ordinarily, these awards are made in the amount of £1,000, although larger awards can also be made.

Student Bursaries are intended to assist a student wishing to move forward to a further course of study in higher education, but where, in the absence of financial assistance, they would be unable to do so. These Bursaries are open to any member of your Lodge who is currently a student or seeking to rejoin higher education.

contribution has ended, thus creating the potential for an ever-increasing network of Masonically-funded prizes across the country.

To become eligible to be considered for a student award, a Lodge must be a member of AMULL and also agree to support the Prize-Giving Programme by donating a very modest £25 a year.

Hardship Grants are intended to provide assistance to all students, Masons and non-Masons alike, who face unexpected financial hardship - above and beyond the realities of day-to-day student debt, perhaps through illness or a change in family circumstance - and where, in the absence of financial support, there is a realistic possibility that the student would be unable to continue in education.

AMULL further supports students through its Prize-Giving Programme, whcih is designed to support Lodges in their relationships with local universities and other institutions of higher education. The programme consists of five awards of £250 p.a., each to be given over a threeyear period. The prize is funded by AMULL, but, importantly, awarded in the name of the Lodge. Lodges that are successful in being granted the right to offer these awards would hopefully see sufficient benefits in the programme to continue to offer a similar prize after AMULL’s

All Universities Scheme Lodges are eligible to join AMULL and membership is free. 20 Universities Scheme Lodges have already joined, and it is hoped that more will take advantage of membership, particularly in terms of charitable support for students, which is not provided by the Universities Scheme.

Further information can be given

by AMULL Membership Secretary, Andrew Green by emailing him at dr_andy_green@me.com.

Below: RW Bro. Sir David Wooton, President of the Universities Scheme, with W Bro. Mark Greenburgh (L), Chairman of the Scheme and RW Bro. David Williamson, President of AMULL

How to Guides The Universities Scheme Committee has been busy over the summer months developing a series of ‘How To...’ guides, aimed at assisting our member Lodges to integrate and maximise various aspects of teh scheme, including such topics as, Social Media, Websites, Freshers’ Fairs, etc.

The first of these ‘How to...Work with your University’ is about to be released and is packed with first-hand

experience and guidance. Keep an eye out for more guides as they are released throghout the year.

If you have any suggestions about other topics that could be covered in this way, please send them to the Scheme Secretary, Oliver Coddington at: secretary@universitiesscheme.com.

Right: The new How to Guides Page 5

Your News - Your Newsletter!

The banner image of the newsletter will display photographs of the universities and institutions to which your lodges and chapter are associated. If you would like your university to be included, then please send your (copyright free) images to us at news@universitiesscheme.com.

We are always on the lookout for news from our member lodges and chapters. If you feel you have some news that the rest of the Universities Scheme should know about, then please send it through to us. If possible, please try to send images with your news items.

The Holy Royal Arch Are you enjoying your Freemasonry? Interested in the degrees? Perhaps you are about to join and someone has mentioned the ‘Royal Arch’.

The Universities Scheme now has three Chapters amongst its members, with more looking to join. Nigel Scott-Moncrieff, the Royal Arch Co-ordinator for the Universities Scheme tells us more.

if you want to find out more and you would like to continue your masonic journey of discovery, you might like to consider asking if you can join.

When Freemasonry was evolving in the Age of Reason or Enlightenment (late 17th to 19th centuries) Masonic Lodges were an ideal place for men, and since 1908 Women, of curiosity and intellect to meet and discuss ideas without the fear of religious or political distraction standing in the way of intellectual thinking.

dramatically, at a certain point in history. Some masons are happy to leave it at that, but our masonic forebears wanted more. They wanted to extend the story in many different directions, creating or adapting stories, each with a lesson, a lesson which makes you think and wonder if you could be doing things differently… how you could be better.

But, the masonic degrees you have experienced, or are going to experience, are a journey of ideas which stop abruptly, albeit

The next one of these stories is the Royal Arch of Jerusalem. I won’t tell you what it’s about, that might take away some of the fun of doing it, but

The Royal Arch is a colourful and dramatic degree ceremony in which you are the central character. It continues the story from the last degree in standard or CRAFT freemasonry but in a more elaborate way. There is only one ceremony and Royal Arch Chapters usually meet two or three times a year.

The University Scheme is now working on developing Royal Arch Chapters along the same lines as our lodges, equipped and ready to bring in students and help them enjoy their Freemasonry even more.

If you can make a bit of time to engage your curiosity and have some more fun – Join the Royal Arch !

Official Lodge Visits

DKW Cup Diary

List of Official Scheme Leadership Visits - january to March 2019

The DKW Loving Cup was claimed

by Domus Dei Lodge No. 5151 from Lodge of Union No. 38 at their meeting in Chichester in October.

January 22nd 26th February 9th 28th March 18th

Blockley Lodge No. 6345 (Oxford) Boswells Lodge No. 7759 (Chelmsford) Ostrea Lodge No. 8209 (Colchester) Lodge of Friendship No 206. (London) Granite Chapter No 2028. (Leicester)

Quick links

Article submission: news@universitiesscheme.com

www.universitiesscheme.com

Scheme Website: webmaster@universitiesscheme.com

fb.com/UGLEUniversitiesScheme

Scheme Secretary: secretary@universitiesscheme.com

@UGLE_UniScheme

Having now travelled a total of 725 miles, the Cup can now be claimed from Domus Dei Lodge in Portsmouth on the 6h February.

Editor: Howard Griffin Page 6