The Antient Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of England
THE PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE and
ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF DURHAM 8 The Esplanade, Sunderland, SR2 7BH, Tel. 0191 567 5365 Email: enquiries@durhamfreemasons.org Website: www.durhamfreemasons.org
A Letter from the Provincial Grand Almoner W Bro Paul B Debenham, PAGStB, PPJGW, ProvGAlm Dear Brethren
April 2020
It is now three weeks since I last wrote, and as the Queen so eloquently said in her speech, this pandemic is proving “a disruption in the life of our country: a disruption that has brought grief to some, financial difficulties to many, and enormous changes to the daily lives of us all.” There has never been a more important time to embrace our core principles of Brotherly Love and Charity. I have been touched by some of the stories I have heard of Brethren demonstrating that support to each other and extending it to the wider community. Many Brethren have acted as Assistant Almoners and made regular phone calls, collected medication and shopping as well as those volunteering for the NHS and serving our wider community in various capacities. We all salute each one of you and say a large thank you. Maintaining regular contact with each other, especially those who are elderly, single, infirm and those who are self-isolating, is important. It reminds them they are not alone and will help us all return to our Lodges united by a stronger bond. Some Lodges and Chapters have adopted modern technology, and set up their own Lodge Whatsapp and Zoom Groups to keep in touch and I would highly recommend both of these and would encourage Secretaries / Scribes E to identify a member who can volunteer to set this up. Whilst undertaking this work it is important that Almoners do so within the confines of what is permissible under General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) rules but they should in no way deter Almoners and Brethren from contacting each other. The Lodge Secretary can assist Lodge Members to keep in touch, where appropriate. I would also ask you to remember those of our Order who are in hospital or ill at this time and I have heard of a few. To each of those, please know we wish each one of you a speedy recovery and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this time. If you hear of anyone who is ill or in need of assistance, please contact your Lodge Almoner without delay. Finally, please heed the Government’s advice, take care and stay safe until “happy meet again.” Kind regards
Paul Debenham Provincial Grand Almoner