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2018

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MMM Prize Draw

The latest MMM Prize Draw has yielded the following lucky winners in time for Christmas:

The 150th. Mark Benevolent Fund Festival hosted by our splendid Mark Province of Lincolnshire came to a wonderful conclusion last Saturday 7th. July 2018. It was a great personal delight when the Grand Secretary Rt. Wor. Bro. Ryan Williams announced the total raised was a staggering £853023. This is a wonderful achievement and I congratulate the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner brethren.

I am especially pleased as I was determined that no targets were to be set and I would trust the brethren of the Mark Province of Lincolnshire to support the Festival to the best of their ability. As I stated on Saturday you did not disappoint and I sincerely thank all who have given to the Festival in this most generous total raised. Lincolnshire can be truly proud.

I am very grateful to those who have worked so hard on the Festival Committee and brethren who served as Lodge Champions, Lodge Festival Stewards and in so many other ways. I have been amazed on my visits to Lodges at the amounts donated to the Mark Benevolent Fund by brethren and the number of fund raising events arranged. Thank you for all your efforts which have contributed to our amazing Festival total.

Especially I thank those who contributed in any way to make the Festival weekend and the Banquet at the Epic Centre such a resounding success. The staff at the Epic Centre delivered both a delicious meal and efficient service.  Our many visitors have already commented on the warmth of the welcome they received and how much they enjoyed being with us.

The money raised for the Mark Benevolent Fund will go a long way to enable it to continue its charitable work into the future. Thank you Lincolnshire for making me so proud to be your Provincial Grand Master for the 2018 Mark Benevolent Fund Festival. The 150th. Anniversary Festival will long be remembered. 

Yours most sincerely and fraternally,

With my best wishes,

Revd. Trevor John Walker  -  Provincial Grand Master

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Over £853,000 raised for the 150th MBF Festival.

The 2018 150th Mark Benevolent Festival has come and gone. The countdown clock stopped on Saturday 7th July 2018. The party is over and the baton handed on to the Province of Sussex who will host the 151st Festival banquet on 6th July 2019 in Brighton. That's a short summary of what has been a tremendous effort on behalf of all Lincolnshire Mark and Royal Ark Mariners; their families and friends. The Festival weekend was a wonderful celebration and the culmination of many years of hard work by a lot of people. I thank everyone who took part, whether donating to the Festival or helping out at the numerous events that have been held.

I know that everyone who was at the Festival banquet on Saturday 7th July 2018 will never forget the moment when R.W. Bro Ryan Williams, the Grand Secretary, revealed the total raised for the 150th MBF Festival.

£853,023 is a staggering amount of money, raised over a short period of time and exceeds all expectations that anyone could have had when the Festival was officially launched in 2015.

Thank you to you all on behalf of the Lincolnshire 2018 Festival Committee.

Dave Wheeler
Lincolnshire Festival Committee Chairman

LINCOLNSHIRE 2018 - THE FESTIVAL RESULTS
	Published	Additions	Totals
Lincolnshire Mark Lodges	289,361	49,051	338,412
Lincolshire RAM Lodges	17,619	26,110	43,729
Unattached Lodges	4,024		4,024
Provinces and Districts	346,857	4,194	351,051
Other Masonic Orders	18,049		18,049
Other Donations	77,079	246	77,325
Total Donations	752,989	79,601	832,590
Interest Credited to the festival from MMH	20,300	133	20,433
Festival Total	773,289	79,734	853,023
In addition to the published figures a further £79,734 has been received as below:
Lincolnshire Mark Lodges	49,051
Lincolnshire RAM Lodges	26,110
Provinces:
Berkshire	250
Hong Kong	569
Oxfordshire	1,100
Wiltshire	1,000
Worcestershire	1,000
Other sundry donations	521
Interest	133
	79,734
Making a grand total of	853,023

 

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MANCHESTER UNITED SIGNED FOOTBALL

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Grand Mark Lodge Annual Investiture
Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London

1.00pm Tuesday 12th June 2018

The annual coach trip has been organized by W. Bro. R. Wade for the Grand Mark Annual Investiture on the above date. Each year the Province is well represented at this meeting to support those being promoted or receiving their first appointments.

All Mark Master Masons are invited to attend, and those who have never been to Grand Lodge are particularly encouraged to attend this splendid occasion.

A full itinerary together with costs can be download if you click HERE. If you would like to attend, please contact W. Bro. R. Wade with the information requested.

Congratulation to the following on their promotions and appointments:

 

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Arthur’s epic rugby rugby ramble from Market Rasen rakes in £4,500

Read all about Arthur's exploits detailed in the Market Rasen Mail by clicking HERE.

 

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 Address to the Brethren at Provincial Grand Lodge, 24th March 2018,

by Rt W Bro Rev Trevor Walker.

It is a very great pleasure for me to welcome everyone to this 144th. Meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Lincolnshire. Thank you for your support and I hope you will discover friendships renewed, new friendships made and great enjoyment from visiting Lincoln. A most important item in all our Masonic Meetings is to welcome our guests. I have already welcomed our distinguished guests and heads of other orders but brethren I am sure you would join with me in emphasising just how delighted we are to welcome so many who have travelled long distances to be with us. We are delighted you are here.

We too have travelled from Lincolnshire. Last June many brethren journeyed to London to witness the impressive installation of the Pro Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Assistant Grand Master by the Most Worshipful Grand Master. Freemasons Hall was packed to capacity and similarly afterwards the Connaught Rooms struggled to dine some two thousand brethren. Nevertheless it was a most memorable day for all who were privileged to be there.
At Grand Lodge the Grand Master invested W. Bro. Gary King as Assistant Grand Standard Bearer and appointed W. Bros. Len Armiger and Barry Humphrey to the rank of Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies. W. Bro. Dave Wheeler was appointed Past Assistant Grand Sword Bearer and W. Bros. Malcolm Forrest and Roger Hansard were promoted to the rank of Past Grand Junior Deacon. We once again congratulate those brethren on receiving these well-deserved honours which are a credit to them and our Province.

Now I have just said the meeting last June was extremely well attended but unfortunately this meant some were not able to be accommodated in the Grand Temple nor able to dine in the main dining room afterwards. Grand Lodge realised this situation is not acceptable and decided to address the problem. This year those appointed to active Grand Rank and those receiving first appointments will be invested as usual at the June meeting of Grand Lodge. Those receiving promotion in Grand Rank will be invested at the September meeting. Please also note that letters offering promotion will not be sent until after the June meeting. So if you have not received the letter you thought you were going to receive in April – don’t lose heart it might still arrive in June!

Hopefully this new arrangement will alleviate the pressure on the June meeting without having to restrict the number of those attending. So please come to Grand Lodge in June to support those getting active or first appointments. We are all very grateful to W.Bro. Ray Wade for arranging the usual coach to Grand Lodge. It is hoped this year you will find it easier to obtain a seat in the Grand Temple.

Each year I am delighted to welcome the Worshipful Commanders and representatives of the Royal Ark Mariner Lodges into Provincial Grand Lodge. If you are not yet a member of this lovely order then I urge you to seriously consider joining. I also remind you that we hold an Annual Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Assembly alternating between Grantham and Grimsby. This year the meeting is at Grimsby on 18th. May when I shall invest the recipients of Royal Ark Mariner Provincial Grand Rank. After the meeting we shall dine together with our ladies and guests. Do please support this meeting which is always a very happy and enjoyable occasion.

I now wish to thank the Provincial Officers who have supported the Team Visits we have made since last April. The turnout has been tremendous and as I have said before and will not cease to say I always feel so privileged to walk through such a long column of officers on our entry into lodge. I know it is an impressive sight for the members of the lodge we are visiting. I look forward to further team visits this coming year with the officers appointed today. I also thank the lodges we visit for their wonderful welcomes and the hospitality so generously bestowed.

Brethren of Lincolnshire can I tell you that when you are represented either by myself or others from this Province on our visits to other Provinces we without exception receive wonderful hospitality. It is a privilege but also a very great pleasure to make these visits and I thank again those other Provinces for their generous and warm welcomes. I hope their visit to Lincolnshire today will be some small return and be as enjoyable to our visitors as the hospitality we have received.
Visiting is at the heart of masonry and this is especially true for the Happy Degree. Several years ago we inaugurated the Travelling Gavel and Travelling Sceptre to encourage visiting in the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodges. Over the years they have moved the length and breadth of Lincolnshire and raiding parties to claim the gavel or sceptre have boosted lodge attendances immensely. Most importantly these visits have made for more happy meetings and more new friendships made. Because of the gavel and sceptre some lodge attendances have exceeded eighty. Please do continue to visit around the Province.
I have enjoyed receiving reports from those representing me at Installation meetings and from the Provincial Grand Wardens. I am pleased to note that our lodges are in good heart with candidates being advanced and good ceremonies performed. Complacency though is not an option and we must always be looking for the right master masons to join the Mark. Likewise the standard of ritual must always be maintained. It is not acceptable to read the ritual for learning means understanding it and only then can we convey the meaning to the candidate. Please do keep up those good standards that have been reported to me.

Our meeting today is primarily for the appointment, promotion and investiture of the Provincial Grand Officers. I congratulate all those I have just appointed, promoted and invested and thank you for all your efforts in the Mark that has earned you this honour. I am sure I do not need to remind you that it is also an encouragement for further service in the Degree and to your lodges. That goes without saying. But I do say it, I said it last year and I say it again, without apology.

I now wish to record the tremendous work done by the Provincial Wardens. W. Bro. Colin Fox and W. Bro. Tim Bird have visited all the lodges in the Province travelling from one end of Lincolnshire to the other – and that can be a long way! I know they have enjoyed their year in office and I am sure W. Bro. Bruce Goodman and W. Bro. Steve Siddall will have an equally successful and enjoyable time as Provincial Wardens this year. I am sure you will welcome and look after them when they visit your lodges.

I looked at the Provincial web site so expertly maintained by W. Bro. Craig Maurier and noticed the clock is still counting down. Only 104 days to go until the 150th. MBF Festival which we shall host in this building on 7th. July. All the arrangements have been made with my very grateful thanks to W. Bro. Dave Wheeler and the members of the Festival and Banquet Committees. It will be a most splendid and memorable occasion and I urge anyone who has not yet booked their place at the banquet to do so without further delay. You really will not want to miss 7th. July and your wives and partners will not forgive you if you do not bring them to the festival.

I am staggered at the number of fund raising events and efforts that are taking place. W. Bro. Ed Backus’ sponsored bike ride, W. Bro. Mick Stocker walking over 1000 miles, W. Bro. Geoff Burgoin and the Spires and Steeples half marathon, W. Bro. Arthur Baxter walking from Market Rasen to Leicester. Events still to come are W. Bro. Richard Woods and the model railway exhibition on 7th. May and the Family BBQ on 24th. June with thanks to W. Bro. Frank Powell.

These are just a few events brethren. Thank you for your continuing support of the MBF by your individual donations and support of the Mark Draw. I know that your support has been extremely generous by the number of MBF honorifics I have presented. I now ask the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies to please conduct W. Bro. Dave Wheeler to the pedestal. W. Bro. Wheeler by command of the Most Worshipful Grand Master I am delighted to present you with your Grand Patron Diamond Award. Thank you for your generosity but also for your hard work as chairman of the Festival Committee. I also take this opportunity of congratulating you on being our Provincial Grand Master elect for the Craft in Lincolnshire. Do enjoy many happy years as Provincial Grand Master.

Freemasonry is a family. This is shown to me by the way in which all our masonic orders work together in mutual support. I have seen this particularly in the most generous donations I have received for the 2018 Festival. I have already acknowledged the outstanding donation from the Lincolnshire Craft Province. Brethren I have received donations for the Festival from many orders which to me has been most humbling and shows what freemasonry really is all about. Helping one another. I thank the Allied Masonic Degrees, the Worshipful Society of Freemasons, the Holy Royal Arch, Order of the Secret Monitor, the Scarlet Cord to name just a few. We are on track for a Festival Total that I am sure will make Lincolnshire proud. I look forward with great anticipation to that moment on 7th. July when our Festival Total will be announced.

If you are still wondering how you might assist at the Festival then I have been asked to say that because of extra bookings just being taken more stewards are required. Please contact the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies W. Bro. Keith Robinson if you are able to offer your services in that capacity. He will be extremely pleased to hear from you.

Meetings such as this one require much work. The brethren of the Urania Lodge No. 326 and the brethren of the Lincoln Lodges have undertaken the local arrangements by preparing the lodge room, transporting furniture and all the preparations of these last few days. I thank W. Bro. Malcolm Forrest our Provincial Organist, not just for the wonderful music, but also for getting the organ here. The Provincial Stewards and Directors of Ceremonies with their team have provided flawless choreography, and the Provincial Grand Secretary and his team have seen to their usual highly efficient arrangements. Thank you brethren.

Time marches on and change as they say is inevitable. This is now the twelfth Provincial Grand Lodge I have called. I have enjoyed them all immensely and they have been occasions I shall never forget. This Provincial Grand Lodge of 2018 is special in that I have not had the opportunity to appoint W. Bro. Steve Hallberg to any office. W. Bro. Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies please bring W. Bro. Hallberg to me. W. Bro. Steve Hallberg you have served this Province and me as a most efficient Provincial Grand Secretary and before and after as Deputy Provincial Grand Secretary. As a small token of my gratitude for all your help and assistance I now present you with my Certificate of Merit.

As I have just said brethren time marches on and now I, and I am sure you, will be pleased to know it is time for me to cease talking that we might proceed to our refreshment. I thank you all for your attention and look forward to welcoming you here in July for the Festival. I wish you a happy Mark Masonic year ahead and may the Great Overseer ever bless and keep you.

 

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RAM 50 Year Certificate 

At a presentation ceremony in his home on Monday 12th March 2018, W.Bro. Peter Bray PrRAMGR of Mercia RAM Lodge 1240 in Spalding was presented with his RAM 50 Year Certificate by senior members of the Lodge. W.Bro Bray (aged 93) will in fact be celebrating 55 years in the degree in 2018 but had somehow managed to slip through the net regarding his certificate! The Lodge Scribe, W.Bro Barry Humphrey RAMGR explained to W.Bro Peter that a recent trawl of Lodges, at the request of the Provincial Secretary, had uncovered the anomaly and that they were there to put matters right.

The Certificate was then formally presented by W.Bro. Bryan Robinson RAMGR aged 92, the senior member of Mercia RAM Lodge and himself a holder of a RAM 50 Year Certificate (and currently heading towards 60 years service) and W.Bro Douglas Drakard RAMGR (age 81) the third senior member of the Lodge after W.Bro Peter Bray. The photograph (showing left to right W.Bro Bryan Robinson, W.Bro Peter Bray and W.Bro Douglas Drakard) with over 153 years of service between them, was taken by W.Bro Barry Humphrey RAMGR, Lodge Scribe.

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The winner of the first quiz on Coastal Towns...

... was Joy Geelhoed with Runner Up being Bro. Chris Rimington who both scored 50/50...the winner being decided by a draw.

Just to prove that it was not a fluke and what experts they are at these quizzes, the winner of the Castles Quiz, again with 50/50 was Joy Geelhoed... the Runner Up was Bro. Chris Rimington who got 49/50.

Many thanks to all who submitted entries.

Derek Bontoft.

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Arthur's Epic Trek

I would walk 1000 miles update

Last year W.Bro Mick Stocker pledged, in the presence of Rt W Bro Trevor Walker, that he would walk a cumulative 1000 miles between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017, to raise funds for the 2018 Festival.

Mick also opened a sweepstake to win a bottle of whisky if anybody could estimate the total number of miles he would walk, and having complete his epic journey of 1355 miles, W.Bro Stephen Roberts came nearest with an estimate of 1342 miles.

Rt W Bro Trevor Walker was on hand to present the bottle of Johnny Walker Red Label to the lucky winner.

Congratulations to W Bro Stocker for completing the walk and raising £1122 for the MBF Festival 2018, and  to W Bro Roberts for winning the sweepstake. 

 

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Support W. Brother Arthur Baxter on his Epic Trek!

At a young 75 years of age, W. Brother Arthur Baxter is planning a Sponsored Walk for the MBF 2018 Festival and the Matt Hampson Foundation.

All Masonic donations will go to the 2018 MBF Festival and any other donations, from rugby clubs etc. will be spilt 50/50 between the MBF 2018 Festival and the Matt Hampson Foundation whose aim is to provide advice, support, relief and/or treatment for anyone suffering serious injury or disability which has arisen from any cause, but in particular from participation in or training for any sport, sporting activity or other form of physical education or recreation.

Arthur is receiving great support from the local rugby clubs and also Premiership side Leicester Tigers where Arthur is a regular visitor.

How can you help?

• Sponsor Arthur by pledging some money. Arthur’s email address is:

            arthur.baxter832@btinternet.com

• Meet and greet Arthur at any of the locations on his itinerary below.

• Walk a few miles with him to show solidarity and to encourage him on his way

Planned Itinerary for Arthur:

6th February 2018

8-30 am, Market Rasen RUFC to Lincoln RUFC arriving about 2-30 pm

7th February 2018

Leave Lincoln at 8-30 am, to Newark RUFC arriving about 4pm

9th February 2018

Leave Newark at 9 am, to Kesteven RUFC (Grantham), arriving about 4-30 pm.

15th February 2018

Leave Kesteven at 9am to Melton Mowbray RUFC, arriving about 4pm.

16th February 2018

Leave Melton Mowbray at 10am to Syston RUFC arriving about 2-30pm.

17th February 2018

Leave Syston at 9am, arriving at Leicester Tigers about 12 to 12-30pm

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Travelling Gavel and Sceptre

The January Antiques, Fine Art, Silver & Jewellery Catalogue Sale - Lincoln - Lot 2196

To be sold on behalf of the Mark Benevolent Fund Charity

An early 20thC Continental silver Masonic crown wind triangular pocket watchAn early 20thC Continental silver Masonic crown wind triangular pocket watch, the mother of pearl dial decorated with various symbols, the case with similar decoration, sold with a silver watch chain and Masonic related fob, stamped Mexico 950. 

Raised £850 at auction. A tremendous sum towards the festival.

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2017

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Royal Ark Mariner Grand Assembly

Binbrook Christmas Carol Service

Letter of Thanks to the Brethren

Dear Sirs,

I just wanted to say how much the Mobile Chemotherapy Unit is appreciated, and to thank you all.

The service it gives is 'second to none' for local people. The Sister always has everything very well organised, and takes pride in caring for all patients' needs, both physically and emotionally. A Staff nurse works with her using the same expertise and kindness.

The two drivers (they take it in turns) Stephen and David are both helpful in the vehicle, as well as driving to Louth etc.

Thank you once again.

Yours sincerely,
An appreciative patient.

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The Charity Hope for Tomorrow celebrates its 10th anniversary this year 2007 to 2017.

There are now 12 mobile units in operation and they have saved the patients 2.000.000 miles of travel and 170.000 hours of time.

Elaine, the Lincolnshire mobile chemotherapy unit  had its third anniversary in May of this year.

The unit now visits Lincoln Louth Grantham and Skegness, and has saved patients over 120.000 miles of travel and 10.000 hours of time. 

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Spires and Steeples 1/2 marathon cross country challenge 

Lincolnshire Mark Master Masons Prize Draw

 The September Prize Draw was held on the 5^th October when the following were prize winners:-

 First Prize, £300.00         W. Bro. R. Hansard, Whitestone 1203.

Second Prize, £200.00     W. Bro. P. Needham, St. Swithun’s 445

Third Prize, £150.00       W. Bro. G. Young, Whitestone 1203

Fourth Prize £100.00      W. Bro. W. N. Smith, St. Swithun’s 445

Fifth Prize £60.00           W. Bro S. E. Siddle, Spurn and Humber 1199

Sixth Prize                      W. Bro. L. A. Darby, Urania 326

 

We have forwarded a cheque for £4,060.00 to the Festival making a total so far of £42,360 donated from the Draw.

£9,610.00 in total has been paid out in prize money so far.

 

Many thanks to all of you who are participating in the Draw we are very happy, as we are sure that you are, in the money raised so far.

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I would walk 1000 miles.

Last year W.Bro Mick Stocker pledged, in the presence of Rt W Bro Trevor Walker, that he would walk a cumulative 1000 miles between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017, to raise funds for the 2018 Festival.

On 13th September 2017, he walked the thousandth mile of his challenge with his wife Sandra at Barkston near Grantham. Sandra also completed the 1000 miles. During the year so far they have walked in Grand Canaria, India, Bulgaria and Slovenia outside the UK, whilst not only walking in Lincolnshire they have done walks in Nottinghamshire, Cornwall, Norfolk, Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria.

The 250th mile was walked on 26th February at Scopwick, the 500th mile was reached on 24th May at Biscathorpe in the Wolds, and the 750th at Gainsborough on 27th July. A highlight was the 650th mile at Osojnica Mala, in the Slovenian Alps on 6th July.

The walking goes on and sponsorship is still open as the person predicting the final mileage on 31st December will win a bottle of whiskey.

So far £1087 has been raised for the Festival.

You can download a sponsorship form HERE.

 

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Mark Benevolent Fund - Anniversary Festival

Friday 6th – Saturday 7th July 2018 - Assistance Needed

By now you all will be well aware of the forthcoming event at The Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground next July. These events take a great deal of preparation and as the Provincial GDC I am tasked with ’stewarding’ the event, accordingly I am looking for volunteers to assist me.

The festivities start with a day trip to East Kirkby for the Aviation Heritage Tour on Saturday 7th July and our Festival Banquet being held at The Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground that evening.

In order to ensure that everyone attending these functions has an enjoyable time, we will need the assistance of some Festival Stewards throughout the weekend for a variety of tasks:-

• Greeting our guests with welcome packs at their hotels, which will be The Double Tree by Hilton, and the Holiday Inn which are both situated next to one another on Brayford Wharf. The Lincoln Hotel, Eastgate, the Holiday Inn Express, Brayford Park and The Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham and generally assisting with any queries that they may have.

• Helping our guests with their coach travel on the Aviation Heritage Tour on Saturday 7th July, and more importantly, ensuring they return from the tour on time!

• Marshalling guests onto their coaches for the short journey to The Epic Centre on the Saturday evening.

• A team of Stewards will be required at The Epic Centre to ensure the whole evening runs smoothly including car parking duties. For those who are able to assist at The Epic Centre and are not booked in to dine, a small buffet will be provided.

Brethren, your Mark Province needs your assistance and if you are available and willing to help, please do not delay and reply today by answering the following questions and emailing your responses to me:- korobinson43@gmail.com 07775556758 (mobile) or 01522 790807 (home)

1. Name?
2. Email address?
3. Mobile phone number?
4. Are you available to assist with greeting guests at one of the hotels on Friday 6th or Saturday 7th ?
5. Will you be able to act as a ‘coach steward’ for the Aviation Heritage Tour on Saturday morning?
6. Are you able to act as a Steward at The Epic Centre on the evening

 

 

PGM Rt W Bro Rev Trevor Walker hosted the annual 

  Christmas Carol Service at

 Binbrook Parish Church 

 SUNDAY 18th DECEMBER 

What better way to start the Christmas Festivities? A lovely atmosphere was enjoyed by all who attended. The usual mince pies and wine were available afterwards. Thank you to all those who came along and helped make it an extra special evening. 

If you missed out this year, do come along in 2017, to get into the Christmas spirit and start the Festivities early!

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I would walk 1000 miles.

W.Bro Michael Stocker pledged, in the presence of Rt W Bro Trevor Walker, that he would walk a cumulative 1000 miles between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017, to raise funds for the 2018 Festival.

You can download a sponsorship form HERE.

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December Draw 

The December Draw was made at The Earl of Scarborough Lodge on Wednesday 14th.

The winners were £300 W. Bro. Richard Kent, £200 W. Bro. Peter Hooper, £100 W. Bro. John Figge, £60 W. Bro. G. Simmons, and 2 x £60 Bro. D. Densham.

 

 

The photograph shows W. Bro. Mike Robinson presenting W. Bro. Roderick Williams, Master of The Earl of Scarborough with a cheque for £3,460 which has been forwarded to the Festival making a total, so far, of £30,832 from the Draw.

If you are not already in it there is an application form on this site, just download it an join!

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Worshipful Master of St Wulfram’s Lodge MMM No 916, Bro Simon Butler claimed the travelling gavel from St Botolph’s Lodge MMM No 946.

 

W. Bro. Bryan Skinner is seen handing over the traveling gavel into the safe custody of W. Bro. Simon Butler.

The gavel was hard fought with four Lodges attempting to claim it. St Wulfram’s narrowly edging out Nene Lodge.

A packed Lodge enjoyed an excellent and interesting presentation by W. Bro. Derek Bontoft entitled “Mark my Words” 

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 THE TRAVELLING SCEPTRE

The Travelling Gavel being presented to W.Bro. Bryan Skinner, the WM of St Botolphs Lodge of MMM No 946 by the WM of St Wilfrids Lodge No 209.

Nine members of the St. Botolphs Lodge travelled from Boston to Alford to claim the Gavel and enjoyed a very special double advancement ceremony in the presence of the Rt. W. Provincial Grand Master. 

St Botolphs next meeting which is on Tuesday 29th November. Get your members together and go and claim the gavel for your lodge!

 

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OCTOBER 2016

Half Marathon Cross Country Challenge

W.Bro Geoff Burgoin  ran the Spires & Steeples 1/2 marathon cross country challenge from Metheringham to Sleaford on Sunday 16th October to raise money for Hope for tomorrow  2018 festival.

        

He thanks all those who have sponsored him so far, but looks forward to hopefully receiving  some more from those he hasn't seen yet.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

THE HENEAGE LODGE OF ROYAL ARK MARINERS No 188 CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

On Friday 30th September, the Worshipful Commander Worshipful Brother Paul Ellis opened a Special meeting at Cleethorpes to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Heneage Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. It was indeed a special meeting in that in attendance, not only was the Provincial Grand Master, Rt Worshipful Bro The Reverend Trevor John Walker, and the entire Provincial team but the occasion was graced with the presence of the Assistant Grand Master, Rt Worshipful Bro John Prizeman and the Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, W Bro John Vause. 

It was a packed house as when the Lodge was called off, the Ladies were admitted to listen to Rt Worshipful Bro Gordon Walkerley Smith give a most interesting history of the Lodge since its consecration.

The consecration of the Lodge took place on 28th September 1916 at the Grimsby Masonic Hall in Osbourne Street, Grimsby. It was named after the Provincial Grand Master, the Hon George E Heneage, who strangely, was not a member of the Royal Ark Mariner Fraternity, so could not conduct the Consecration ceremony himself and it was performed by the Grand Mark Treasurer, V W Bro J F Cleeves. Bro Frank Barrett was installed as the first Worshipful Commander. In order to regularise matters with the PGM, an emergency meeting was held on the 4th December when the Hon George Heneage was elevated in the presence of many distinguished visitors.

Rt W Bro Gordon Smith recalled that at that time in 1916, the country was half way through the Great War and the Battle of the Somme had begun on the 1st July and did not end until November. During those months hundreds of young men from the Grimsby area, known as “the chums” had been killed. He reflected that it must have been a depressing and sad town at that time and on that particular day, the government proposed that there would be one meatless day to cut food price rises.
Colonel George Heneage, as he was then, had been installed as Provincial Grand Master of the Mark degree in 1905 and was so until 1954, a period of 49 years. He became Lord Heneage in 1922 and succeeded Lord Yarborough as Provincial Grand Master of the Craft in 1936 until his death in 1954. He had also been Provincial Prior of Lincolnshire from 1910 until 1954.

In 1937, V W Bro Frank Barrett presented to the Lodge a brass tablet for the Roll of Past Commanders. This was beautifully executed by local craftsmen and is a highly prized ornament of the Lodge today. Interestingly, the first Past Commanders jewel was presented to V W Bro Frank Barrett in 1916/17, which for some unexplained reason became lost, but surprisingly was found in a second hand shop in Hull by a brother who recognised its worth and he organised its return to the Lodge and is being worn today by W Bro Philip Spicksley who is the current IPC. The jewel is gold and the Lodge have permission to use the jewel this way as Gold jewels are normally only worn by Grand Officers.

Rt W Bro Gordon Smith concluded, “tonight we recognise 100 years of history, being the third senior RAM Lodge in the Province, the Lodge is enjoying “good times” and as the Psalmist has written – This is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it”.

The Assistant Grand Master, Rt W Bro John Prizeman presented the Centenary Warrant and addressed the brethren and ladies, after which The Provincial Grand Master, Rt W Bro Trevor Walker, dedicated a new Lodge Tracing Board.

A magnificent festive board was enjoyed by all.

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AUGUST 2016

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The Province of Berkshire 2017 MBF Festival lapel badges

The Province of Berkshire is hosting the 2017 MBF Festival and lapel badges are available at a cost of £10 each to support their festival. If you would like one please contact one of the following who will arrange delivery to you:

Steve Hallberg - stephen.hallberg@btconnect.com
Mick Stocker - mick.stocker@yahoo.co.uk
Dave Wheeler - davewheels@tiscali.co.uk

From July 2017 the Lincolnshire Provincial lapel badges will be available so 'watch this space'!

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JULY 2016

Are you and your family coming to SUMMER FAIR on Saturday 6th August? Something for all ages.

It was a great success last year and, with your support, we hope it will be again this year.

All proceeds will be going to the MBF Festival 2018. 

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 Prize Draw Presentation

 

W Bro Mike Robinson presenting prize draw cheque £3.444 to W Bro Les Darby for the 2018 Festival.

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Interesting Talk about the Childrens' Fund of Sri Lanka

 

W Bro Les Darby presenting a cheque £220 to W bBro John Speed which was collected at the festive board for the children's fund of Sri Lanka supported by Freemasons of Lincolnshire as a thank you for a very interesting talk by W Bro Speed about the visits he has made to Sri Lanka and how the money is distributed.

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Elaine's Second Birthday

The 7th Mobile Chemotherapy Unit 'Elaine', which was named in memory of the wife of Phil Anyan, has now celebrated her second birthday.

The Mobile Chemotherapy Unit is now fully staffed and in use. It is currently working in Lincoln and Grantham. This autumn, the unit will be working in two further locations, in Skegness and Louth.

   

     

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JUNE 2016

Pictures after the Grand Investitute meeting at Great Queen's Street on Tuesday 7th June.

Congratulations to W.Bro Dennis Berry on his appointment as Assistant Grand Inner Guard.

Below: W Brothers, David Gentle, Ron Harrison PGJD, having received their new appointments enjoy their meal at the Connaught rooms. Accompanied by ! W Bros, Malcolm Forrest, Arthur Baxter, Dom Limkin, Les Darby, Garry King, Jack Geelhoed, John Winter, and Ian Gilliat. All supporting our Provincial Grand Master.

 

                    

                    

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MAY 2016

 

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 MODEL RAILWAY OPEN DAY for MBF 2018 FESTIVAL

Once again, and by kind invitation of W. Brother Richard Woods, an open day was held to view Richard's model railway at Gainsborough in aid of the 2018 Festival.

    

As you can see from the photos, a good number of people turned out to enjoy the three model railway layouts and also to be treated to tea and a wonderful selection of delicious cakes baked by Joy. It was a delightful afternoon, both watching the trains and relaxing in the garden, and a great way to raise funds for the Festival.

    

Grateful thanks go to Richard and Joy Woods, and their many helpers, for all of their hard work in putting together such an enjoyable event.

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 Hope for Tomorrow

Sponsored Vintage Motorcycle Ride

Around The Mark Masonic County

Derek Perkins has now finalised the dates for his ride to every Masonic Centre, which has a Mark Lodge meeting there, on a 1929 AJS motorcycle.

SATURDAY 18^th JUNE 2016

Southern half of the Province

Commencing at Deeping St. James at 0900 and finishing at Grantham via Spalding – Long Sutton – Boston – Skegness – Alford – Spilsby – Sleaford and Grantham.

SUNDAY 19^th JUNE 2016

Northern half of the Province

Commencing at Lincoln at 0900 and finishing at The Fun Day at Market Rasen via Gainsborough – Crowle – Scunthorpe – Barton on Humber – Grimsby – Cleethorpes – Louth and Market Rasen. 

Derek would be pleased to have the company of other Masonic Motorcyclists, Ancient or Modern ( Bikes not the Bikers!!).

Derek can be contacted on 01778423610.

dandm.perkins@mod-comp.co.uk

Lodge Champions will have sponsor forms

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Grand Rank Appointments for 2016

This year’s appointments are as follows:

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Meeting of Mark and RAM Lodge DC’s and ADC’s on Saturday 16^th July 2016

At

Lincoln Masonic Centre, Nettleham Road, Lincoln, LN2 1RR.

Brethren

It is some time since we had a meeting of lodge DC’s and a number of issues have been raised recently which have needed clarification.

It was felt therefore that a meeting would be beneficial to all concerned for which purpose the Deputy PrDC and I will be holding the above meeting in the hope that we can all go into the new season with confidence in the knowledge that we all know how things should be done.

The plan is to start about 10.am  and hopefully conclude around Noon depending on the number of questions raised in  conclusion.

Please let us know if you plan to attend in order that we can arrange seating and refreshments.

Please make every effort to join us.

Yours fraternally

Nev Storey

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The Travelling Sceptre is currently residing at St Wilfrid's Lodge RAM No. 209

During an enjoyable evening at the St Mary Lodge RAM No 326 Installation evening the Travelling Sceptre was claimed by St Wilfrid’s Lodge RAM No 209. 

 

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APRIL 2016

The Mark Festival Newsletter is now on the Festival 2018 page. Please click HERE

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St Wilfrid's Lodge Mark Master Tony Marsden accepting the travelling gavel after it had been claimed from John O'Gaunt Lodge, Gainsborough on Monday 18th April 2016.

 

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On Monday 18th April, ten members of the St Wilfrid's Lodge at Alford travelled to Gainsborough and claimed the gavel. They clocked up 490 man/miles.  

It may be claimed from St Wilfrid’s on Monday 24th October 2016.

Second were St Swithun’s (Crowle) with 3 members( 66 man/miles).

 

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The Charity Collection envelopes for the 2018 Festival are being used in the majority of Mark and RAM Lodges and the Festival total is slowly rising as a result, especially with the addition of Gift Aid tax relief. Our Provincial Charity Steward, W. Bro John Clements, would appreciate the Lodge Secretaries, Charity Stewards and brethren being reminded of filling in the Gift Aid form fully otherwise they may not be credited with the donation which counts toward their honorifics. It would also be helpful if all sponsorship forms were fully completed with the name and address of the sponsor or that the sponsor form is accompanied by a completed Gift Aid slip completed by each donor for the same reason.

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MARCH 2016

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Another Successful Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting

The Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Rev. Trevor John Walker and members of Provincial Mark Grand Lodge of Lincolnshire were pleased to receive the Assistant Grand Master R.W.Bro. Raymond John Smith and many distinguisehed guest at our Provincial Grand Lodge on Saturday 12th March 2016 at the Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground.

After greeting our distinguished guests, Rt W Bro Rev Trevor Walker was pleased to appoint and invest his active team for the coming year and other Past Rank appointments and promotions. 

The Provincial Grand Master then gave the following address to the assembled brethren:

It is a very great pleasure for me to welcome you all brethren to this 142nd. Meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Lincolnshire. Thank you for your support and I hope you will discover friendships renewed, new friendships made and great enjoyment from your Provincial Grand Lodge meeting.

I have already welcomed our distinguished guests and heads of other orders but brethren I am sure you would join with me in emphasising just how delighted we are to welcome our Assistant Grand Master Right Worshipful Brother Raymond John Smith. Sir, on behalf of the Province of Lincolnshire we thank you for taking time out from your very busy schedule to come to Lincoln. We hope you will enjoy your visit and return home with many happy memories of your time amongst us.

On Tuesday 7th. June there will be a very special meeting of Grand Lodge. The Most Worshipful Grand Master will be installing new Deputy and Assistant Grand Masters in addition to investing recipients of Grand Rank. Brethren I am sure you all join with me in congratulating our Assistant Grand Master R. Wor. Bro. Raymond John Smith on his promotion to Deputy Grand Master. We really are honoured today brethren for the Assistant Grand Master elect R. Wor. Bro. John Herbert Prizeman is also with us. We offer you our sincerest congratulations and wish you both many happy years in these offices.

W. Bro. Ray Wade will again arrange the coach trip to Grand Lodge. You will need to book early brethren as this Grand Lodge Meeting will be very heavily subscribed. There will of course be the traditional celebratory dinner at Baldock for those travelling on the coach. If you have never attended Grand Lodge, then I do urge you to do so. It is always a most splendid occasion and you will be supporting your brethren from Lincolnshire being honoured with Grand Rank. The meeting is open to all Mark Master Masons and you can either travel on the coach and dine at Baldock or join me and other brethren at the Connaught Rooms. Whichever you choose you will be guaranteed a most enjoyable day.

The Provincial Grand Secretary being a model of efficiency contacted me shortly after last year's Provincial meeting to say we had a problem looming for 2016. Our scheduled meeting date would conflict with Easter weekend – we would have to change it. I did tell him I ‘d be working at Easter anyway but was reminded that other people enjoy holidays at Easter so a change of date had to be arranged. I do apologise for the fact we have clashed with the Province of North and East Yorkshire meeting this morning at York. We shall be back to our usual date next year and meet on the fourth Saturday in March – 25th. Please put the date in your diaries and I do hope we shall see all our guests with us again next year.

This is our second meeting to take place at the Epic Centre at the Lincolnshire Showground as a consequence of the Bishop Grosseteste University being unable to accommodate us. We have been victims of our own success as our attendances and dining numbers have increased to a level the university was unable to handle. I am delighted we are at the Showground again hoping this meeting will be as successful as last year and meet with your approval I hope for many years to come.

It has been a busy year in the Mark Degree. Last June the Grand Master honoured W. Bro. Tony Austin and W. Bro. Keith Robinson who were promoted to P. G. Jun. Deacon, W. Bro. Mike Robinson received a first appointment as P.A.G.D.C., W. Bro. Steve Roberts P.A.G.Swd.B., and W. Bro. Ian Castledine P.G.Std.B. W. Bro. Les Darby was appointed to the active rank of Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies. All these brethren continue to work very hard for the Mark Degree and we congratulate them on the recognition afforded by those appointments which were so well deserved.

I now take this opportunity to thank brethren who have accompanied me to the other meetings of Grand Lodge. They have all been happy enjoyable occasions. As well as your company at Grand Lodge I am very grateful to those have travelled with me to other Provinces for their Annual Meetings. We all enjoy these visits and you would wish me to say to our visitors from those Provinces how much we appreciate the most generous hospitality extended to us and hope your visit to Lincoln will be equally enjoyed by yourselves.

Last year the Provincial Team made five official visits in the Province. Without exception these were delightful occasions. I am especially pleased by the support of the provincial officers - virtually 100% attendance at each visit. Thank you brethren, as I confess it does make me feel proud to be led into a lodge by such a long column of officers. It is also impressive for the brethren of the host lodge to see their lodge being honoured by so many Provincial Officers. Without exception the lodges we visit have given us a wonderful welcome and very happy evenings have been enjoyed by all present. I also thank you for the warm welcome extended to me and my Directors of Ceremonies when I personally attend your lodges. The puddings continue to please as well!

Such visits are an opportunity for new friendships to be made by the Provincial Officers of the year. I hope these new friendships might be continued by joining the Lincolnshire Provincial Officers’ Lodge. I have a feeling the secretary will supply application forms for any Provincial Officers who are not yet members! The lodge only meets twice a year (where have you heard that before?) but the installation meeting is very much a social occasion when wives and partners join us for the festive board. I hope all Provincial Officers will seriously consider joining.

Our meeting today is primarily for the appointment, promotion and investiture of the Provincial Grand Officers. I do congratulate all those I have just appointed, promoted and invested and thank you for all your efforts in the Mark that has earned you this honour. I am sure I do not need to remind you that it is also an encouragement for further service in the Degree and to your lodges. That goes without saying - doesn't it brethren? But I have said it!

I now wish to record the tremendous work done by the Provincial Wardens . W. Bro. Barry Humphrey and W. Bro. David Wheeler have visited all the lodges in the Province travelling from one end of Lincolnshire to the other – and that can be a long way! I know they have enjoyed their year in office and I am sure W. Bro. Trevor Knight and W. Bro. Mick Stocker will have an equally successful and enjoyable time as Provincial Wardens this year. I am sure you will welcome and look after them when they visit your lodges.

The Grand Officers in the Province represent me at Installation meetings and also act as liaison officers to the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodges. I am very grateful to them for fulfilling these duties and for the reports they compile. These reports help to identify brethren for promotion and also enable assistance to be given to any lodge where required. Sometimes it is thought that receiving Grand Rank means you get a nice apron and sit at the top table and do nothing else. Not in this province brethren. The Grand Officers work very hard and I am pleased to place on record my thanks and that of the province to them.

It is now 846 days until we celebrate the 2018 Mark Benevolent Fund Festival here at Lincoln. It is a very special festival for it is the 150th. and we are very honoured to be the host province on this historical occasion. I know the festival is very much in all your minds and you are doing so much to support the Festival Fund. The number of events happening is truly staggering ranging from sponsored leg waxings - ouch! sponsored rides and walks, sponsored slims, and many others besides. There was the dinner dance held last September, race nights, Last Night of the Proms, model railway exhibition, organ concerts and others too numerous to mention.

All these events add to the generous donations you are making through collections, supporting the Mark Draw, and your regular giving to the Mark Benevolent Fund. I am confident we shall raise a splendid total for the Festival but please do not let the momentum slow. There are only 846 days to go! I do thank you for working so hard to make the Festival a success and I also pay tribute to the members of the Festival Committee, the Lodge Festival Champions, and Charity Stewards.
This year has seen many Lincolnshire brethren receive Mark Benevolent Fund Honorifics. These honorifics are permanent jewels and will continue to be worn in your Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodges for as long as you are Mark Master Masons. They are not Festival Jewels but are a recognition of your generosity and an advert for the Mark Benevolent Fund that will hopefully encourage others to give their financial support. I now ask the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies to bring W. Bro. Ian McFeeters forward. I now present this Grand Patrons Jewel.

We know in Lincolnshire that the Mark Benevolent Fund is supporting the Hope for Tomorrow Charity in providing Mobile Chemotherapy Units and have, ‘Elaine’, our Lincolnshire Unit, already in use. The Mark Benevolent Fund does much more than support Hope for Tomorrow. Some £100,000 has been given to assist in those parts of the country affected by the recent flooding, money was donated to assist with the devastation in Vanuatu, and the fund continues to support needy brethren and their families. Your donations are put to very careful, good use and help many hundreds of people here and abroad. Thank you for your support of the MBF.

In Lincolnshire we have a very happy relationship between the Craft and the Mark. You have already seen that expressed by the very generous donation to the 2018 Festival from the Provincial Grand Master for the Craft Rt. Wor. Bro. Graham Ives. Bro. Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies please escort V. Wor. Bro. Ives to me. Graham, I thank you for the donation you presented but noticed you did not appear to be properly dressed. Your very busy schedule precludes you from attending as many lodge meetings as you might wish. I am very aware you support the Royal Ark Mariner Degree as much as you can so I now have the very greatest pleasure in conferring on you Royal Ark Mariner Provincial Grand Rank and investing you with the collarette of that rank. You now look properly dressed! You’ve also saved the fee of honour!

The Registrar’s report shows an increase in subscribing members for 2015 over 2014. That is very gratifying but we must constantly look to the new Master Masons in our Craft Lodges to identify those who would make good Mark Master Masons. Perhaps you could hand them a copy of the leaflet produce by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master that explains the degree? Please remember it is from the Craft we find our members and it is therefore so important for us to get the right men into our Craft lodges. I urge you all to be active in your Craft lodges and do all you can to make them successful growing lodges.

Meetings such as this require much work. The brethren of the Haven Lodge No. 1732 and the brethren of the Lincoln Lodges have undertaken the local arrangements by preparing the lodge room, transporting furniture and all the preparations of these last few days. I thank W. Bro. Malcolm Forrest our Provincial Organist, not just for the wonderful music, but also for getting the organ here. He’s a wandering Minstrel! The Provincial Stewards and Directors of Ceremonies with their team have provided flawless choreography, and the Provincial Grand Secretary and his team have seen to their usual highly efficient arrangements. W. Bro. Craig Maurier the Assistant Provincial Grand Secretary has organised printing and we especially thank him for all his efforts whilst not being in the best of health and wish him a speedy recovery.

It is a wonderful privilege to serve as your Provincial Grand Master and I have enjoyed many happy hours visiting your lodges and representing the Province of Lincolnshire around the country. Happy hours brethren, for that is what being a Freemason and especially a Mark Mason is for. We are a happy Degree and I wish you - many, many happy hours in your lodges and in the year ahead. The words from the second degree remind us what it is all about, “Happy have we met, happy have we been, happy may we part,” and especially, “Happy meet again”.

May the Great Overseer be with you all in a happy Mark Masonic Year to come.

 

   

After the meeting, brethren who were able to stay for the meal were treated to an excellent meal with convivial company. If you were not able to come this year, make sure your reserve the date in your diary for next year, when our next Provincial Grand Lodge meeting will be held on Saturday 25th March 2017.

    

The newly appointed and invested Senior Warden, W.Bro. Trevor Knight proposes his toast the Rt.W. Provincial Grand Master

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Grand Mark Lodge Annual Investiture

Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London

 

1.00pm Tuesday 7 June 2016

                                                                   

The annual coach trip has been organized for the Grand Mark Annual Investiture on the above date.  Each year the Province is well represented at this meeting to support those being promoted or receiving their first appointments.

 

All Mark Master Masons may attend, and those who have never been to Grand Lodge are particularly encouraged to attend this splendid occasion.

 

A full itinerary is below together with costs.

 

Travel Details

Outward:                                                      

 

Outward:                                                      

 

07.15hrs                      Depart Eastgate Car Park, Sleaford, (behind The Mallards, NG34 7DJ)  

08.00hrs                      Arrive Asda Supermarket, Union St., Grantham, NG31 6NZ          

08.45hrs                      Arrive Premier Inn, Norman Cross, Peterborough, PE7 3TB

 09.30hrs                      Arrive ‘The Templars Hotel and Carvery’, Baldock, for ‘Bacon butties’

10.15hrs                      Coach leaves for London

12.00hrs                      Arrive Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London

 

Return:

 

16.00hrs                      Leave Freemasons’ Hall

17.30hrs                      Arrive ‘The Templars Hotel and Carvery’, Baldock, for evening meal

19.45hrs                      Leave Baldock

20.45hrs                      Arrive Norman Cross

21.30hrs                      Arrive Grantham

22.00hrs                      Arrive Sleaford

 

Costs:

 

The cost depends on numbers travelling on the coach; with a full coach this would be £49;this includes travel,bacon buttie on outward journey and 3 courses evening meal on the return journey but excluding drinks.  The Deputy Provincial Grand Master will preside at the Festive Board.

 

Please contact W. Bro. R. Wade, PAGDC, RAMGR, if you wish to attend or for further information.

 

Copies of booking forms are available via e-mail (see address below) or on the Provincial web site: 

 

 

R. Wade, Esq.

15 Westwood,

Broughton,

N. Lincs.,

DN20 0AU

 

Tel. No.: 01652 652592; e-mail: ray@wade01.fslife.co.uk

 

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Click HERE if you would like to download this form.

 

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Provincial Grand Lodge MMM Lincolnshire 2016

By now, you should have received your summons to the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting for 2016. Because of the clash with Easter weekend  in 2016 the date has been moved forwards to SATURDAY 12th MARCH 2016 at the Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground,Lincoln.

 

 

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W BRO DR. J.M.B. CARR PGSD  RECEIVES 50 YEAR CERTIFICATE

W Bro Mike Carr is seen receiving his 50 year certificate from the Provincial Grand Master  R W Bro Rev Trevor Walker at St Matthew Lodge MMM 1239 on Tuesday 9th February. Looking on is the Worshipful Master W Bro Andrew Dollery. The Provincial Grand Master paid tribute to Mike’s long and distinguished career in both the Mark and other Orders both in Lincolnshire and the North & East Ridings of Yorkshire.
A good night was had by all and Mike was able to attend the Festive Board in his honour and then  treated all present to a glass of wine!

 

W. Bro A V Judge Receives 50 year Certificate

 

W.Bro Tony Judge received his 50 year Certificate from W.Bro John Hockin in recognition of his membership of Mark Masonry at a meeting of Remigius Lodge 117. Tony was Advanced into Remigius Lodge 20^th December 1965 and finally became Master in 2003, and is currently PPrGSD within the Province.

Tony has also now achieved 60years in Freemasonry being Initiated into Ashlar Lodge5219  26^th January 1956 when they met at the Masonic Rooms in Mint Street Lincoln, before the move to the Assembly Rooms in the early 1960’s.

 

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The New Provincial Mark and RAM ties are now available!

I know that many brethen will be excited to know that the new Provincial Mark and RAM ties are available to buy for only £15. The profits will go towards the MBF 2018 Festival.

The ties are available from W.Bro's Mike Robinson, David Wheeler, Stephen Roberts and Craig Maurier.

If your lodge would like to get a group order together, please do so through your lodge secretary.

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£75,000 pledged to help Provinces

Mark Benevolent Fund – It seems that not a week goes by without reports of severe storms and flooding somewhere in the world. The United Kingdom has certainly had its fair share this winter and most recently the Mark Provinces of East Lancashire, North & East Yorkshire and West Yorkshire have taken a hit.

The Trustees of the Mark Benevolent Fund have once again stepped up to the plate and pledged £25,000 for each of the Provinces to use to help those in distress. The funds will be used to help individuals and larger community projects – wherever there is a need.

We hope this will go some way to help alleviate the stresses and strains of those who have been affected.

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WBro Geoff Burgoin after finishing Santa Run in Burghley Park. A big Thank You to all those who sponsored me for the festival.

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Sunday 20th December

 

PGM Rt W Bro Rev Trevor Walker hosted his annual 

  Christmas Service at

 Binbrook Parish Church 

 SUNDAY 20th DECEMBER

at 6pm

 

It was a nice way to start the Christmas Festivities and a lovely atmosphere was enjoyed by all who attended. The usual mince pies and wine were avaialable afterwards. A nearly full church made it an extra special evening. 

If you missed out this year, do come along in 2016, and get into the Christmas spirit and start the Festivities early!

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Royal Ark Mariners Grand Assembly

Some of the Lincolnshire lads enjoying themselves at the festive board in the Connaught Rooms after the meeting where W Bros Jack Geelhoed, Reg Brittan, David Southwood & Peter Hooper received RAMGR. Our congratulations to them all.

 

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125th anniversary of the Lodge coupled with the presentation of a 50th year certificate

On Thursday the 26th November at Sleaford, the Nene Lodge MMM met for what was designated a regular meeting but was actually a very special night.

55 brethren gathered to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Lodge coupled with the presentation of a 50th year certificate to W Bro John Rodgers PGSD.

 

 

 

Left: DPGM and W Bro John Rodgers, PGSD, with his 50th year certificate which was presented by the DPGM at the meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Add to that the advancement of Bro Dan Stansfield and a visit by the Provincial team and it was undoubtedly, a night to remember for all.

 

 

 

 

Right: V W Bro John Boad (DPGM) / Bro Dan Stansfield (candidate) / W Bro Alan Mawer (WM)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The DPGM was kept busy throughout the evening by presenting a 50th year certificate to W Bro Rodgers and also a certificate of advancement to Bro Roly Freeman.

 

 

 

 

Left: DPGM receiving a commemorative mug & a cheque for £1000 for the  2018 festival from the WM

 

 

 

 

 

 

The festive board proved to be just as enjoyable and in addition to each brother receiving a commemorative mug, W Bro Alan Mawer, the WM of the Lodge presented a charity cheque for £1000 to the DPGM for the 2018 Festival. 

        

 

 

DPGM addressing the brethren at the festive board

 

 

 

Anexcellent meeting, a good festive board and superb company - quite simply Mark Masonry at it's best.

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 SUCCESSFUL SWINGTIME EVENT AT SLEAFORD

On Saturday 26th September over 100 Mark Masons, their families and friends attended the Swing Time event held at St. George's Academy, Sleaford.

 

 

The evening had been organised by Malcolm Forrest and Mike Lock and featured the 'Miller Magic' of the Sleaford Town Band. Many of the guests had g

An excellent two-course buffet was provided and also a cocktail bar serving a wide range of exotic cocktails! The band played two long sessions and were excellent throughout the evening with many people dancing the night away.

During the interval, Malcolm Forrest kept everyone entertained with his skills on the Wurlitzer organ which, as always, was very well received.ot in to the spirit of the '1940's' theme and dressed up in a variety of styles ranging from military uniforms to de-mob suits and this added to the atmosphere of the evening.

The final sums have not yet been completed but it is hoped that the evening, as well as being great fun, will have made a substantial contribution to the 2018 Mark Benevolent Fund Festival.

 

 

        

 

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 Peter Dolby Completes Indoor Rowing Challenge

The Indoor Rowing Challenge took place at The Masonic Hall Deeping StJames on Saturday 17th October, the 113 Kilometres, representing the distance between Lincolnshire's Southernmost and Northernmost Masonic Centres, and 13 kilometres further than Indoor Rowings ultramarathon. It was completed in a time of 10hours and 38minutes, A total of 59mins and 6secs were taken for fluid and comfort breaks, the actual rowing time was 9hours 38minutes 54 seconds. And for the the sad ones amongst us that's an average split of 2:33.6 per 500m.

 

HOPE FOR TOMORROW VEHICLE IN LINCOLN

 

Hope for Tomorrow, the charity being supported by the Masonic Benevolent Fund, brought the Lincolnshire Mobile Chemotherapy Unit, into City Square, Lincoln on Tuesday 13th October as part of their 'Chemotherapy in the Community' week.

Dave Wheeler, the chair of the 2018 Festival Committee was invited to attend by the charity. Community Fundraiser, Clemmie Rubenstein is pictured at the front of the Lincolnshire MCU, 'Elaine', with W. Brother Phil Anyan. The MCU is named in honour of Elaine who, very sadly, lost her battle with cancer. Phil is also pictured near to the entrance of the MCU with one of the patients currently receiving treatment on the MCU. The personal testimonials from patients who have received treatment in the MCU were truly heartwarming and they all followed a similar theme in that they had had horrendous journeys to receive chemotherapy at hospital oncology units before the MCU was available.

 

They now can have this treatment very locally which helps them tremendously in their treatment and well-being. One patient said that travelling to Lincoln for treatment had not only taken most of the day but the journey home, feeling very ill, had been most difficult. They now receive their treatment at the MCU when it is at Grantham which is a five-minute walk from their home or, in their case, a one-minute cycle ride. In the future, the MCU will travel to Louth, Skegness, Lincoln, Boston and Grantham to continue with this tremendous work.

 

 

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HAVEN LODGE MMM presents cheque to R W Bro Trevor Walker

Bro Gareth Cookson was the latest brother to be advanced into the Haven Lodge MMM on Friday 2nd October, in a ceremony that he is likely to remember for some to to come.

Everyone in attendance witnessed an excellent cermony and after the meeting, W.Bro Boulton, Master of the Haven Lodge MMM was pleased to present a cheque for £1000 for the MBF Festival 2018, to the Right Worshipful Provinical Grand Master.

 

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CHEQUE PRESENTATION

W.Bro. Phil Anyan presenting W.Bro. J. B. Bennett, master of ALEXANDRA Lodge with a cheque for £2,928.00 for the Festival making a total donated to date to £13,720.00. In the background W.Bro. D. S. Bontoft, Assistant Provincial Grand Master. The winners of the Draw were £300.00 Bro. Shaun Dickson of Alexandra Lodge, £200.00 W. Bro. Mike Robinson of St. Swithun's Lodge, and £100.00 W. Bro. Leslie Hamp of Nene Lodge.

L. to Rt. W. Bro Tim Bird Ass. Prov. D. C., W. Bro. Mike Robinson, Bro. Shaun Dickson, W. Bro Bennett, W. Bro. Derek Bontoft.

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BRO. FRANK & JULIA POWELL’S MBF BARBEQUE 23 AUGUST 2015

On the 23 August 2015 Bro. Frank & Julia Powell from the John ‘O Gaunt Lodge, Gainsborough invited brethren to attend their MBF Sunday Family Barbeque at their house The Old Schoolhouse in Lea, Gainsborough.

Frank & Julia were joined by 39 guests which included brethren and their ladies/partners from numerous lodges, including John O’ Gaunt, St. Swithuns, St. Oswald’s, Yarborough and other lodges, plus family friends.

Frank & Julia were supported by their two daughters Dawn and Karen and son-in-law Trevor and their two grandchildren Chloe and Jessica without whose help the day would not have been such a success.

A full buffet menu was provided which included barbequed Roast Beef and Pork with roast potatoes and a selection of vegetables. For the vegetarians fresh salmon with a choice of various salads was available.

The main course was followed by a selection of puddings including sherry trifle, summer pudding, strawberry cheesecake, black forest gateau and Eton mess. The final course was a selection of cheeses and biscuits.

Much festive spirit was consumed and most of the brethren and guests completed their meal with tea or coffee.

To complete the day a raffle was held with 21 prizes donated by various brethren.

It is understood that all brethren and guests had a thoroughly good afternoon with all enjoying themselves. Brethren and guests were also extremely generous and a total of £350.00 was raised for the MBF and which included proceeds from the raffle.

Finally, Frank & Julia would like to thank all Brethren for their support, encouragement and generosity in making the afternoon such a success.

Watch this space for the next John ‘O Gaunt Lodge MBF event!!

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WM, W Bro Mike Denny, of St Swithun's Lodge MMM 445 Crowle, at their last meeting presenting the Travelling Gavel to WM, W Bro Barry Cooper, of John O'Gaunt Lodge MMM172.

It now resides at the John O'Gaunt Lodge MM 172 and our next meeting is September 21st 2015

We welcome any Lodge wishing to attend and stake a claim !

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 Successful Railway Day

On Sunday 2nd August 2015 around forty people visited Richard and Joy Woods home in Gainsborough where Richard had opened up his three model railway displays to raise money for the 2018 MBF Festival.

As well as the superb model railway display Richard's wife Joy and his daughter Jane had prepared a wonderful assortment of cakes, served with tea and coffee, which were enjoyed by all who went along. It was a beautiful day so, after spending time looking at the display it was very pleasant to sit in the sunshine in a lovely garden and chat to friends.

A huge 'thank you' goes to Richard, Joy and Jane for all their hard work to make it such a successful event that raised £237 for the 2018 Festival

  

                               Tea and cakes in the sunshine                                           Richard with his wife Joy and daughter Jane

Richard Woods and Keith Robinson all smiles as the MAMOD steam engine whizzes past! 

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 Joint Coffee Morning

Remigius MMM 117 and White Stone MMM 1203 Lodges in Lincoln ran a joint coffee morning on Saturday 18th July for the 2018 Festival at the Nightingale, Lincoln. The event was very successful and well-attended and a happy time was had by all.

A combination of a cake stall, raffle, tombola and a shoe-shine stall raised just over £400 for the Festival. Pictured are people enjoying their day and W. Brother Richard Kent working hard to apply a 'military-style' shoe shine to a pair of Lodge shoes!

  

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St Oswalds MMM No 387 Sponsored Bike Ride – Sunday 19th July 2015

When I announced a possible sponsored bicycle rise around the Masonic Centre’s in the North of the county which had a Mark lodge attached, it seemed like a good idea! I had already roughly checked the mileage as around 74 miles, which was significantly more than I had cycled in a day before, but with the support of a number of other brethren and my brother, the plan was set!

Training rides were undertaken, bikes polished and oiled, and the weather was keenly watched over for the previous week and looked ideal for the day of the ride – slightly overcast, warm with little wind. All looked well set!
On the day of the ride however, the weather had decided to change – with rain forecast for the morning, and winds increasing throughout the day, but undeterred, we arrived at the Scunthorpe Masonic Hall in plenty of time for the 08:30 start time.

The six cyclists were myself, my Brother Rob, W Bro Alan Armiger, W Bro Dave Metcalf, Bro Dave Dowell and Bro Barrie Graham, ably assisted by support car driver Bro Fred Coles. We were waved off by Bro Steve Spavin.

Scunthorpe Start

Our first destination was Barton Masonic Hall, 14 miles away, via Dawes Lane, Ermine Street, Horkstow Bridge, Horkstow Hill and down into Barton.

Horkstow Bridge

This part of the journey was relatively uneventful, albeit wet, having a slight back wind for quite a lot of the journey and apart from most of us walking up Horkstow Hill, we were soon at Barton where we were met by Bro Trev Mason.
Pic 3 – Barton Masonic Hall
From here we retraced our steps, back to Horkstow Hill, and down through Saxby All Saints, Bonby, Worlaby to Elsham.

Elsham

Proceeding onwards, we rode through a huge downpour towards Wrawby before stopping for a well deserved coffee break in Brigg, where the sun began at last to shine! 29 miles were now completed!

Coffee in Brigg

Feeling somewhat refreshed, we cycled on through Brigg, to Scawby Brook, Hibaldstow before cycling to our lunch stop at Scotton, via Cleatham Hill in what was rapidly becoming a strong wind. On paper, this should have been a relatively easy ride but it was far from it and there were some tired legs when we finally wobbled into the Three Horseshoes Car Park! We were almost at the 40 mile marker!

A reviving drink, and some excellent sandwiches and we were soon ready to push onto our next destination, Gainsborough Masonic Hall.

We were again at the mercy of the wind and another scenic section of Lincolnshire felt less wonderful as we pushed through Laughton, across to Morton before arriving at Gainsborough Masonic Hall, where we were warmly greeted by Bro Frank Powell, Festival Champion, W Bro Chris Oates and W Bro Barry Cooper. Also waiting patiently was W Bro David Wheeler, who was joining as a guest cyclist for the final 2 legs of the journey.

Gainsborough Masonic Hall

We were now 49 miles into the ride and I was beginning to doubt my arithmetic in adding up the distance of the ride, realising 74 miles was definitely not correct, but we were committed to carrying on (I think!). Never rely on Google Maps!
After another drink, biscuit and rest, we set off, over the Trent, along the riverbank until we reached the long slope into Beckingham which was (guess what) – head wind, and even stronger than before! Oh how we laughed!

Beckingham was reached, then Walkeringham, Misterton, then along the riverbank to West Stockwith, Gunthorpe, to Owston Ferry. This part of the ride had side winds and the occasional back-ish wind.

A quick break at Owston Ferry Playing Fields for drink (and my 4th banana of the day) before what I knew was going to be a hard part of the ride, inclines and head winds – my favourite! I must apologise to my fellow cyclists as I lost all sense of humour at this point and basically focussed on keeping going until we reached Epworth, Belton, then into Crowle where W Bro’s Mike Robinson, Ray Stokes and Cliff Burke had the coffee made and biscuits ready for us. 71 miles recorded!

Crowle Masonic Hall

The last leg from Crowle to Scunthorpe was thankfully backwind and along the A18 we reached some reasonable speeds, though this was probably driven on by the thought of the beer waiting at the finish line, which was at the Dolphin Inn in Scunthorpe, and there was NO-ONE happier to see it than me!

Final mileage 80 miles plus all riders had to get to the start point and back home so most were in the mid to high 80’s!

The End – The Dolphin Inn

Personally this was a real achievement for us all, and way above my own personal comfort zone, and everyone did brilliantly well, and over a beer we discussed next year’s challenge, which at first I wanted to be a 5’s and 3’s domino-fest, but as the beer flowed I found myself once again drawn to another bike ride – oh dear – here we go again!

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 Provincial Draw held at The Ark Lodge No. 1910

Grand Mark Investiture

W.Bro Ray Wade organises a coach to the Grand Mark Investiture. A day out to support the brethren receiveing honours and a chance to experience masonry at our Grand Lodge in Great Queen Street, London. A meeting not to be missed. Afterwards, on the return leg, there is always a meal stop, with a chance to enjoy a  great meal and reflect on the day's events.

Joey Dunlop Lodge MMM

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St Oswalds Mark Lodge Presents Cheque

W.Bro Keith Lacey receiving a £600 cheque for the 2018 festival from Martin Cooper the WM of the St Oswalds Mark Lodge

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Mobile Chemotherapy Unit

W. Bro Phil Anyan & W. Bro Chris Oates recently took the opportunity to catch up with progress and visited the unit in between Patient appointments on one of its many visits to Lincoln County Hospital.

W Bro Phil Anyan is pictured with Deputy Sister Katrina who is responsible for the day to day care and treatment of patients making use of this excellent facility. Also pictured is Dave who is responsible for the driving, along with all other aspects of running the unit.

The Unit, based in Boston, has so far proved to be a valuable asset for the County and will shortly be further utilised in Grantham, followed by other County locations as soon as is possible. Katrina commented that patients who have had the opportunity to use this mobile facility have been very appreciative of the relaxed, comfortable and convenient surroundings.

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JOHN O’ GAUNT, ST. SWITHUNS & ST. OSWALDS LODGES

HARBOUR CITY FLOATING RESTAURANT CHINESE BANQUET 30 APRIL 2015

This was all accompanied with various types of rice, chips and prawn crackers. What was even more surprising was that the chef also put on a Chinese Fruit Platter to finish with.

Much festive spirit was consumed and most of the brethren and guests completed their meal with tea and coffee.

To complete the evening a raffle was held with seven prizes donated by various brethren and which included a consolation prize of one MBF Pen.

It is understood that all brethren and guests had a thoroughly good evening with all enjoying themselves. Brethren and guests were also extremely generous and a total of £662.50 was raised for the MBF and which included proceeds from the raffle, the sale of MBF Pens and donations.

Finally, the John O’ Gaunt MBF Champion would like to thank all Brethren for their support, encouragement and generosity in making the evening such a success.

The next event will most probably be a Barbeque in the summer. What’s this space!!

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Urania Race Night

Wanted
Your Old or New postage stamps and postcards

Juvenile collections gathering dust somewhere, clippings from your own or office mail anything I can group together and sell on eBay to raise funds for the 2018 Festival.

Over the next couple of years I will be travelling around the Province so can collect from Masonic Centres or if you are visiting Louth or Alford please just leave them there and I will pick up.

(Not looking for 1d Blacks)
Just your support

Thank You

David Southwood
Provincial Junior Overseer

Contact TEL: 01507 606236
or
Email: dws414@tiscali.co.uk

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Lincolnshire Mark Prize Draw

The Prize Draw was drawn at the Provincial Grand Lodge, at the Lincolnshire Show Ground on Saturday 28th March.

There were three winners:
1st Prize £300 Bro. P.L. Gibbons of Sutcliffe Lodge No. 188
2nd Prize £200 Bro. C. L. Rimington of St. Oswald’s Lodge No. 387
3rd Prize £100 W. Bro. C. L. Burke of St. Swithun’s Lodge No. 445

A cheque for £2,368.00 was handed to W. Bro. John Clements, the Provincial Charity Steward, to go to the Festival appeal making a total of £8,084.00 in the last year.

We now have sufficient members to make the Draw four times a year, the next one will be at the end of June when the prizes will be a minimum of £320, £215, and £105.

This is a good way to help the Festival and your honourifics.

If you are not a member of The Draw already ask your Lodge Champion for an application form and join now, if you’r not in it you won’t win it!

Mark Festival Raffle

The raffle was also drawn at the Provincial Grand Lodge and the winners were:-

1st Prize £500 W. Bro. J. A. Clarke
2nd Prize £300 S. Lambert
3rd Prize £100 Bro. C. A. Lines
4th Prize £50 W. Bro. C. Hunton
5th Prize £50 W. Bro. D. M. Wheeler

We would like to thank everyone who returned the raffle tickets, we were able to donate £1,877.00, after expenses, to the Festival.

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Saturday 28th March 2015

Provincial Grand Lodge was held  at the Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln on Saturday 28th March 2015. 

Visitors and Mark Master Masons who attended enjoyed a great day.

After opening PGL, Rev. Trevor Walker, Provincial Grand Master of the Provincial Mark Grand Lodge of Lincolnshire, was pleased to welcome visiting Provincial Grand Masters and distinguished guests from thirteen other Provinces.

Following the investiture of the officers and brethren of the province, he later gave the following address to the assembled brethren, who then retired to a sumptuous repast in the adjoining room.

R W Bro Peter Connolly PGM of West Lancashire is asked to draw a lucky number for the Mark Draw.	The PGM toasts with R W Bro Peter Hamilton Rollin Past PGM of East Anglia and President of the General Board at Mark Masons’  Hall.	Breakfast butties as well as tea and coffee were available at the new venue and the brethren are seen availing  themselves of the goodies  on offer.

   

 

Address by Rt. W. Bro. Rev. Trevor Walker

It is a very great pleasure for me to welcome you to this 141st. Meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Lincolnshire. As always it is wonderful to see you gathered together and especially this year - as you have obviously been able to find your way to our new venue - the Epic Centre at the Lincolnshire Showground.

Our move from the Bishop Grossteste University was necessitated due to our success. Growing numbers attending this meeting meant the university was no longer able to accommodate us. Provincial Grand Lodge is for all the Mark brethren and it was neither my wish nor that of the executive that anyone who wished to attend should be precluded from doing so for lack of space. So brethren I hope you will enjoy our new spacious meeting place.

Moving the location of Provincial Grand Lodge has entailed a lot of hard work and I especially wish to thank my Deputy and Assistant PGMs, the Provincial Grand Secretary and his assistants, the Provincial Grand DC and his team, and of course the Lincoln brethren. Thanks also go to the members of St. Botolph's Lodge No. 946 and Mercial Lodge No. 1240 for hosting this meeting and for all their assistance in its smooth running.

It was a great sadness for all of us who knew him to receive the news of the death of V. Wor. Bro. Trevor Harold Kitchen last year. V. Wor. Bro. Kitchen was our P. Dep. PGM. and he was a tireless worker for and supporter of the Mark Master Mason and Royal Ark Mariner degrees. I will always be grateful to Trevor for all the assistance and guidance I received from him when I was appointed P.G.M. We are all missing his cheery presence in our lodges and pray he now rests in peace.

The main business and the purpose of our meeting is to appoint and invest the Provincial Officers for the forthcoming year. I congratulate all those I have been privileged to appoint and invest today. These appointments are awarded on merit and are a token of appreciation for all your work for the degree in our province. They are also of course an encouragement for your continued efforts and I am sure that trust will not be misplaced. I also apologise if anyone feels they have been overlooked. Brethren I am restricted in the number of recipients of these honours I can confer and I am aware there are more who deserve honours than I am allowed to bestow. Please be patient - all things come to he who waits! I think!

It has been a great joy for me to be accompanied on team visits by the Provincial Officers for this last year. The numbers attending have filled me with pride (yes I know it is a sin!) and from the comments I have received I know you have enjoyed those visits. It is also a great boost to the lodge we are visiting to see the team parade in. Often on these evenings new friendships are made and is not that what freemasonry is about? Visiting and making new friends! To enable this fellowship to continue I do urge all Provincial Officers to consider joining the Provincial Officers' Lodge.

Now I wish to thank the Provincial Wardens. W. Bro. Phil Anyan and W. Bro. Robbie Nasmith have travelled the length and breadth of Lincolnshire. As Phil lives in the far North West and Robbie in the equally far South East I thought they might have divided the county between them. But brethren as you are doubtless aware they have visited most of the lodges all over Lincolnshire. Thank you brethren.

I have appointed a new Provincial Grand Almoner - W. Bro. Jack Geelhoed. V. W. Bro. Bob Parsons has held this office for fifteen years and of course was before that Provincial Grand Secretary. I am very pleased that he has agreed to continue as a member of the General Purposes Committee to assist us with his great experience. I therefore take this opportunity to confer Life Membership of that Committee on V. Wor. Bro. Robert Spencer Parsons. I and all the Lincolnshire Mark brethren are indebted to you V.W. Bro. Parsons for all you have done and especially for your very caring way in looking after the needs of brethren and their families. We are the caring friendly degree in freemasonry and brethren our Past Provincial Grand Almoner has shown this to be truly so. I am also pleased to remind you brethren he is very much NOT retired and will be offering assistance and counsel to W. Bro. Jack Geelhoed.

Bro. Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies I should be pleased if you would now escort the Provincial Grand Tyler into Provincial Grand Lodge and bring him to the pedestal. Brethren Bro. Colin Hornsey has in his own quiet and unassuming way undertaken the duties of Provincial Grand Tyler for several years. He to my knowledge has never or very rarely been absent from a Team Visit and therefore I have no hesitation in promoting him in Provincial Grand Lodge to Past Grand Sword Bearer. Thank you Bro. Hornsey.

Last June many brethren from Lincolnshire travelled to London to witness the Grand Master appoint and invest the new Pro. Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Assistant Grand Master. It was a most splendid occasion and made more so by the Grand Master also promoting and investing V. W. Bro. Graham Ives Past Grand Senior Overseer, W. Bro. Walter Beard and W. Bro. John Hockin Past Grand Junior Deacons. W. Bro. Barry Robinson received the first appointment of Past Grand Senior Deacon, W. Bro. Peter Hooper Past Assistant Grand Sword Bearer and W. Bro. Alan Farmer Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer. W. Bro. Philip Aitken received the Active Rank of Grand Standard Bearer.

On Tuesday 9th. June W. Bro. Ray Wade will again arrange the coach trip to Grand Lodge. This year I am delighted to announce that the Grand Master has been pleased to confer the following ranks in Grand Lodge to brethren from Lincolnshire. W. Bro. Tony Austin is to be promoted to P. G. Jun. Deacon, W. Bro. Keith Robinson to be promoted to P. G. Jun. Deacon, W. Bro. Mike Robinson receives a first appointment as P.A.G.D.C., W. Bro. Steve Roberts P.A.G.Swd.B., and W. Bro. Ian Castledine P.G.Std.B. W. Bro. Les Darby is to be appointed to the active rank of Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies. We congratulate all those brethren and look forward to seeing them receive their honours in Grand Lodge. The coach is not yet full brethren - but nearly - so do make your booking with W. Bro. Ray Wade as soon as possible.

Last November a most splendid occasion here at the Epic Centre marked the culmination of the Lincolnshire 2014 Craft Festival. I know the Provincial Grand Master was very proud to announce over two and three quarter million pounds had been raised for the RMTGB and was very grateful for the support received from Lincolnshire Mark brethren in achieving that wonderful total. We offer you, sir, our sincerest congratulations on a wonderful festival.

Brethren our thoughts and efforts now turn to our 2018 Mark Festival which Lincolnshire is privileged to be hosting in aid of the Mark Benevolent Fund. This charity has for nearly one hundred and fifty years been providing assistance to needy Mark Brethren and their families. This assistance is able to be given very quickly when needed and often before other help can be organised. An example of this is only yesterday the MBF issued a newsletter you will all receive detailing an emergency grant to the people of Vanuatu who recently suffered severe devastation from a cyclone. Those funds are already with the people of the South Pacific. As well as providing immediate relief the MBF also supports worthy causes. One such you are all aware of - Hope for Tomorrow - which provides Mobile Chemotherapy units.

Our 2018 Festival is also the 150th. Anniversary festival of the MBF and it is an honour for Lincolnshire to be the host. It has been decided by the Trustees of the MBF that in recognition of this milestone in its history a special worthy causes grant would be made to Hope For Tomorrow. This will provide ten mobile units by 2018. Last May one such unit was presented at Grantham to be used in Lincolnshire. It has been named Elaine after the late wife of our Past Provincial Grand Senior Warden. Elaine fought bravely against cancer and I am sure Phil is proud her name is continuing that fight here in Lincolnshire through the work of the Hope For Tomorrow Mobile Cancer Unit named in her honour.

We must do all we can to support the 2018 Festival - not least as we have already benefited from the charity. To that end I appointed a new 2018 Festival Committee which is now working very hard under the chairmanship of W. Bro. Dave Wheeler Prov. G. Junior Warden. I thank all the brethren now serving on the committee for their hard work.

I also thank W. Bro. John Moulson, a member of the committee, for instigating the idea of Lodge Champions. Each Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodge has appointed a Festival Champion to work alongside the Lodge Charity Steward in promoting the 2018 Festival. I thank the Champions for the work I know they are already doing from the number of events in support of the 2018 Festival already arranged. Please give these events your strongest support brethren. It is not just about money - it is also about fun and enjoying our Mark Masonry.

W. Bro. Mike Robinson inaugurated the Lincolnshire MMM 2018 Festival Draw. It has already raised a substantial amount of money and brethren your donation can count towards your MBF honorific. If you have not yet joined then do remember there is nothing wrong with trying to win a draw - St. Matthias was elected an Apostle that way as was Pope Francis! The latest draw will take place after the festive board today.

The 2015 Mark Festival in aid of the MBF is being hosted by Worcester and some of us from Lincolnshire are looking forward to going in July. Bro. Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies please escort W. Bro. Adrian Hutt to me. W. Bro. Hutt please accept this cheque from the brethren of Lincolnshire with our very best wishes for a most successful 2015 Festival.

I am very pleased to note from the Registrar's report today that our membership shows a slight increase from the figures for last year. I do urge you to continue to seek out the right brethren to join our lovely order. I commend to you the information leaflets produced by W. Bro. Derek Bontoft the Assistant Provincial Grand Master. Make sure they are available in your Masonic Centres and pass them to any Craft Masons who might be interested. Above all do what you can to support your Craft Lodge and make sure it is strong with new members being welcomed. Without a strong Craft we cannot have a strong Mark!

I also commend to you the Lincolnshire Mark Website. I am very grateful to Bro. Craig Maurier the Assistant Provincial Grand Secretary for compiling the web site and being the web master. If you have not yet logged on - then do so as you will see what is happening and will find it of great interest. I suggested to my daughter in Australia that she had a look at the web site. She found it extremely interesting - especially the picture of Bro. Terry Clay of Spurn and Humber Lodge. Terry is riding in the world naked bike ride in June to raise funds for the 2018 Festival! However my daughter was worried she might be in trouble for viewing the picture on her work computer.

Brethren this address to you is really all about thanks. I thank you all for the wonderful welcome and hospitality you extend to me and my representatives when we visit your lodges. I thank you for the wonderful events you organise and invite me to. I thank you for your attendance today and hope you enjoy Provincial Grand Lodge - and come again! More than anything else I thank you for allowing me to be your PGM and thank you for the fraternal friendship we all enjoy through being Mark Master Masons.

May the Great Overseer of the Universe be always with you.

 

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Wednesday 25th March 2015

Members of John O’Gaunt Lodge from Gainsborough made a raid on the St Swithurns Lodge in Crowle with 13 brethren to claim the Gavel.

Unfortunately for them, 14 brethren of the St Oswald's lodge were also in attendance and claimed the Travelling Gavel for Scunthorpe.

Why not get a party together to claim the travelling Gavel for your Mark Lodge? You will enjoy a great night whilst on your raid and enjoy the company of more visitors to your lodge when they try to make a claim on the Travelling Gavel at your next meeting?

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Friday 20th March 2015

Race Night at Lincoln Masonic Centre in aid of MBF 2018 Festival

Wednesday 18th March 2015

Ladies Half Marathan 

Saturday 28th February 2015

The second Champions meeting was held at Sleaford and again a very successful meeting resulted in many ideas being put forward for consideration.

The emphasis was on finding different and entertaining ways of raising funds for the MBF 2018 Festival. 

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Saturday 21st February 2015

"Fab----U----Lous" , "Am----az----ing", "Spectacular", and "Once in a Lifetime Experience" were just some of the comments after the Gary Williams fundraising evening at the Oaklands Hotel.
 

What a fantastic way to raise money and enjoy a great night out that will be remembered for some time to come.

Gary Williams waived his normal fee and claimed expenses only, and with Barry Flint @ the Oaklands Hotel keeping his costs down, a substantial sum was raised for the good causes the evening was supporting.
 
We Raised a total of £2728  which will be distributed as follows
 
£1000 to The Mark Master Masons MBF Festival 2018
 
£500 to LMCA via Saint James Lodge
 
£500 to LMCA via Earl of Yarborough Lodge
 
£728 to a LOCAL charity to be chosen by Gary Williams

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Thursday 5th February 2015

Team Visit to Remigius Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. 117

On the 5th February Remigius Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners celebrated 125 years since the Lodge was founded on 20th February 1890.

Fifty two brethren attended the meeting including the Provincial Grand Master, Rt. W. Bro the Rev Trevor Walker accompanied by his Provincial Officers. All the brethren in attendance were presented with a commemorative mug to mark this special ocassion.

Newly elevated Bro Johnathan Harvey (centre) receives one of the commemorative mugs at the festive board.

The Worshipful Commander, Bruce Goodman gave the following short history of the lodge:

"In 1871 Remigius Lodge No 117 of Mark Master Masons had been formed from members of the Craft Lodge Witham (warrant dated 1793), also that year another Craft Lodge was consecrated  St Hugh. In 1890 these Lodges held meetings at the Masonic Rooms, Mint Street, Lincoln. A petition had been raised by four Brethren from the Remigius Lodge MMM to form a Royal Arc Mariner Lodge and the Warrant bears their names. Bros Henry Edward Cousans who became the first Worshipful Commander, Joseph Arthur Robinson first to be Elevated and became the second Worshipful Commander, Benjamin Hill Russell and Richard Cotton Carline. The Warrant bears the name of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons HRH Prince of Wales later to become King Edward VII."

A great night was had by all on this last team visit before the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting on Saturday 28th March 2015.

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Tuesday 13th January 2015

Team Visit to St Oswald's Lodge MMM

The Provincial Grand Master, Rt.W.Bro. Rev. Trevor Walker was accompanied by members of the Provincial Team to attend the Advancement of Bro. Barry Bradshaw at the St Oswald's Lodge MMM on Tuesday 13th January 2015.

An excellent ceremony was enjoyed by all. It was a cold night outside, but picture below shows the the PGM, Rt.W.Bro. Rev. Trevor Walker, the candidate, Bro. Barry Bradshaw, and the Worshipful Master, Bro. Tony Reeves, enjoyng the warmth of the Festive Board.

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Thursday 29th December 2014

The Ultimate Ice Bucket Challenge!

I am sure most sensible Mark Master Masons spent Christmas and the New Year at home by the fireside, with a glass of something warming in their hand. 

Brother Richard Powell, of the Bayons Lodge MMM, spent this Christmas in a lakeside log cabin north of the Arctic circle in Northern Finland. After visiting a reindeer farm and visiting Santa, a northern lights safari and driving skidoos, Richard's wife, Lisa, found a hotel further along the lake that has an indoor swimming pool and also cuts a hole in the ice on the frozen lake, which reaches a meter thick. Lisa suggested that he might like to jump in the hole for fun. He naturally declined such a ridiculous idea.

Richard said, "The idea, however, sparked something inside me. It occurred to me that it would be the ultimate Ice Bucket Challenge. So, as the Lincolnshire Mark Master Masons are raising money for the MBF 2018 Festival I decided that I would jump in if I could get enough sponsorship so to do. Money is being raised for the MBF Festival 2018 to help the'Hope For Tomorrow' charity to provide mobile chemotherapy units."

He continued, "We stayed 300km north of the Arctic Circle, a little over 185 miles. 

I paid 5 Euros to use the sauna, pool and ice hole and when we got down to investigate the hole it was frozen over and we had to dig it out. Originally I was going to do it on the 28th, but decided to pop to Sweden instead so it happened on the 29th. 

The temperature was the warmest I could have picked by pure chance. Up until that day we had been constantly below -27 down to -36.5, but it was a balmy -14.5 when I did it. So perhaps the shorts were not out of place."

If anybody would like to support Richard with further sponsorship, please get in touch: richard@powells.me

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Sunday 21st December - Santa raises money for MBF 2018 Festival

Geoff Burgoin, the "Champion" of the St Guthlac Lodge of MMM No.1122 has set an early example to all  its members by raising a magnificent £235.00 for the Lincs Mark 2018 Festival at Burghley Park in Stamford.

    

The pictures show....BEFORE ....DURING and AFTER!

1. Heading for the start in full Santa uniform.

2. Completing the first lap.

3. Enjoying some welcome mulled wine and proudly displaying his medal. 

Geoff sends his thanks to all who sponsored him and says, "The idea that we should all enjoy our fundraising ran through my mind as I trudged round the course, and I can say that (now that I have completed it) ....it was great fun".

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Sunday 21st December

PGM Rt W Bro Rev Trevor Walker hosted his usual 

 

Christmas Service at

Binbrook Parish Church 

SUNDAY 21st DECEMBER

which was followed by mince pies and wine!

 

This was a wonderful ‘’warmer upper’’  and got everyone into the Christmas spirit. The Church was once again filled this year. It was a great occasion for all who attended. 

To find out what you missed, you will have to come along in 2015 and clear the lungs! 

 

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Tuesday 9th December

Grand Royal Ark Mariners Investiture.

Several Lincolnshire Royal Ark Mariners were honoured at the Grand RAM Investiture in December. The picture above shows the PGM and other brethren relaxing afterwards in the Connaught Rooms.

The four recipients were, Geoff Burgoin, Keith Craig, Fred Clarke and Malcolm Forrest. Our congratulations go to them all.

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Friday 31st October 

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Monday 15th December 2014

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Thursday 27th November 2014

Bro George Buxton received a large bottle of Malt Whisky from W Bro David East, Worshipful Master of the St. Wulfram’s Lodge of Mark Master Masons 916, meeting at Grantham.  

The Whisky was presented at last meeting on 27th November.  

The presentation was to mark George's recent 100th birthday and was thankfully received and no doubt will be faithfully applied!

George is a much loved and valued member of the lodge who really enjoys his Mark Masonry .

 

 

  

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Monday 17th November 2014

50 Year Certificate is presented to W.Bro. Keith Jowett PPrGSW at the John O'Gaunt Lodge MMM

W.Bro. Jowett was advanced into this honourable degree on 16th November 1964, and his 50 year certificate was presented almost 50 years to the day.

The APGM, W.Bro Derek Bontoft travelled from Bourne to present the certificate to W.Bro. Jowett on this memorable occasion. W.Bro Bontoft also took the opportunity to present W.Bro. Jowett with a solid silver Mark token, lapel badge and keyring.

He said how wonderful it was to see Keith still in office as the lodge Registrar after 50 years in this happy degree - a feat unlikely to be repeated anywhere.

After receiving his certificate, Kieth replied by saying what a good time he has enjoyed in Mark Masonry, He gave a humourous anecdote about having to assist a previous PGM out of his sports car by removing the roof! This had the brethren in stitches.

The night was topped off by witnessing a near faultless demonstration ceremony with the Provincial Junior Warden, W.Bro. Robbie Nasmith, acting as the candidate (who was able to give a couple of prompts to a grateful S.D. when required).

A good night was had by all in our happy Mark Degree. 

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Saturday 8th November 2014

Good Old Days

On Saturday November 8th 2014 the Festival kicked off with a fantastic evening of fun at the Grimsby Masonic Hall.  Starring singers Jeannine Ridha and  Rita Grove  Grimsby Mark Masons staged a night of fun and entertainment based upon the Old Time Music Hall theme of ‘The Good Old Days’.  

Go to the Festival Page for more details

 

 

 

HAVEN LODGE NO:1732 OF MARK ASTER MASONS HELP IMMINGHAM AIR CADETS

Recently the Air Cadets of 866 (Immingham) Squadron approached the Haven Lodge of Mark Master Masons to ask for assistance in purchasing extra adventure training and camping equipment. When they were made aware of the various activities enjoyed by the cadets and the help that they gave to the community the Lodge was only too pleased to make a donation.

The presentation of a cheque for a considerable amount towards the equipment was made at the Squadron Headquarters recently.

The Worshipful Brother Andy Downes – the Worshipful Master of The Haven Lodge No 1732 of Mark Masters Masons at Cleethorpes – accompanied by the Secretary of the Lodge Worshipful Brother David Maultby, hand over the cheque to the Chair of the Squadron Civilian Committee Joyce Storer. Also present are the Squadron President Air Commodore Neil Gammon, the Squadron Commander Flight Lieutenant Simon Dunn and Committee member Mrs Tracey Pursglove – who had made the first approach to the Freemasons

Flt Lt Simon Dunn said “The money will be spent directly on adventure training equipment. The squadron is very active in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and many weekends are spent on either training or qualifying expeditions and my intention is to use the money to purchase GPS locators. These will allow us to be aware of their exact position at any time on these ventures and greatly increase the safety of the cadets while on the unaccompanied qualifying expeditions at all levels of the Award Scheme. Funds are becoming increasingly hard to raise and we are therefore immensely grateful for donations such as this”

After the presentation the Freemasons were taken for a visit around the squadron to see the cadets at work on projects and other activities.

For details on joining the squadron ring the Adjutant: Wing Commander Tony Lark (01469-573463).



MARK DEGREE PAYS TRIBUTE TO V.W.BRO. TREVOR KITCHEN

The Province of Lincolnshire Mark Master Masons held a celebration dinner for the Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master V W Bro Trevor and Mrs Colleen Kitchen to commemorate his many years of dedication and work and the contribution he has made to Mark and Ark Masonry in the Province.

V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen and Mrs. Colleen Kitchen 

The event, hosted by Provincial Grand Master Rt.W.Bro. Rev Trevor Walker and Mrs Lynne Walker, was held at the Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa and was attended by many Masons and their Ladies on Tuesday 29th June who enjoyed a happy evening.

V.W.Bro Kitchen and the Provincial Grand Masters he has served under (L to R) V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen, Deputy Provincial Grand Master MMM; Rt.W.Bro. Rev Trevor Walker, Provincial Grand Master MMM and the Past PGM, Rt.W.Bro. Gordon Walkerley Smith

Rt.W.Bro. Trevor Walker and the Past PGM, Rt.W.Bro. Gordon Smith, in their speeches after the dinner praised V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen for his 16 years service and assistance as Deputy.

 
   


Past PGM, Rt.W.Bro. Gordon Smith and V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen clearly enjoying their time together.



SUTCLIFFE LODGE MMM NO:188 LADIES FESTIVAL BOOSTS 2014 FESTIVAL

W.Bro Paul Doughty and his wife, Allison, have made a significant contribution to the 2014 Festival by donationg the proceeds of their Ladies Festival to the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys.



L to R: The Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree, Rt.W.Bro. Rev. Trevor Walker; Mrs Allison Doughty; W.Bro. Paul Doughty, Master of Sutcliffe Lodge MMM No:188; Mrs. Walker

Paul has been the Worshipful Master of Sutcliffe Lodge MMM No:188 for a two year spell and has enjoyed two Ladies Festivals with Allison as a result - in 2009 and 2010. 

The total raised was £1175.00 and this was presented at the Provincial Meeting of Royal Ark Mariners at the Masonic Hall Grimsby and will be passed to the 2014 Festival by the Mark Degree..



The Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree, Rt.W.Bro. Rev. Ian Walker (right) receives the cheque from W.Bro. Paul Doughty with Mrs Allison Doughty.

Paul and Allison thanked all the Mark Masons, their Ladies, Guests and friends for their support in raising such a wonderful sum for charity.



ST MATTHEWS LODGE MMM NO:1239 CELEBRATE THEIR 50TH. 

St Matthew Lodge of Mark Master Masons’ Held their regular Lodge meeting, at the Masonic Hall, Barton on Humber to celebrate their 50th Anniversary, and to dedicate a new Bible for use in the Lodge.
The event was attended by the Provincial Grand Master, Rt Worshipful Brother Trevor John Walker and his team on an official visit.



Following the dedication and Lodge business, cheques were presented for the Lincolnshire Mark Benevolent Association in respect of the 2018 Lincolnshire Mark Festival to the Provincial Grand Master, by Worshipful Brother Dave Robson, ProvGJO, Treasurer of the Millennium Lodge of Installed Commanders for £2,500.00 on behalf of that Lodge.(Above)



Also, Brother Graham Summerell of the St Wilfrid’s Lodge presented two cheques for the Benevolent association, of behalf of the St Wilfrid’s Lodge of MMM and the St Wilfrid’s Lodge of RAM in the sum of £300 each. (Above)

Rt Worshipful Brother Trevor John Walker thanked both the Brethren and their Lodges and stated how grateful he was to the Mark and Royal Ark Brethren for their generosity shown by these cheques. The Provincial Grand Master reminded us all that charity is at the heart of Freemasonry and should be in the heart of every Freemason and especially Mark Master Masons. It is his earnest wish that all Mark Brethren will be at the forefront in Lincolnshire by fully supporting the Craft 2014 Festival. However as Mark Master Masons we know how much more enjoyment we receive from our freemasonry - but the more we receive the more we must give. In this respect the 2018 Mark Benevolent Fund Festival to be held in Lincoln must also be fully supported. The Provincial Grand Master commended the 20 pence daily savings scheme suggested by his Deputy V.Wor. Bro. Trevor Harold Kitchen. The Mark Brethren should all be able to save their twenty pences and still fulfil their obligations to the 2014 Craft Festival. Rt. Wor. Bro. Trevor Walker thanked W. Bro. Robson and Bro. Summerell for their presentations and also for helping to keep our charitable obligations at the front of our minds.”

Below is the Celebratory cake which was received end enjoyed at the festive board, kindly made by the daughter of W.Bro Arthur Baxter, Secretary of the Lodge.



Rt Wor Brother Trevor John Walker pictured with the current Master W. Bro Michael Robinson, and the much loved but now departed cake. 



A FIRST FOR MARK MASONRY IN LINCOLNSHIRE

On saturday 25th April 2009, a new Mark Lodge was consecrated at Grantham. The Mayflower Lodge of M.M.M. No. 1899 was consecrated by the Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. The Rev. Trevor John Walker, assisted by his Provincial team.



The picture shows the PGM,R.W.Bro. the Rev. Trevor Walker; the Deputy PGM, V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen; the Provincial Chaplain, R.W.Bro Gordon Walkerley Smith and the Past Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro. Raymond Leonard Ringrose as the W.Master, Ian Charlton receives the warrant from the PGM.

It is a first for the Province in that it will be held in "daylight" hours at Spilsby.
The consecration was followed by installation and W.Bro. Ian Charlton was installed as the first Master by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, V.W.Bro Trevor Harold Kitchen. The first meeting at Spilsby takes place on Tuesday 5th May at 11am.



V.W.Bro.Trevor Kitchen conratulates W.Bro Ian Charlton after installing him as the first Master of the Mayflower Lodge MMM No:1899.



ST SWITHUNS LODGE MMM NO:445 MAKE PRESENTATION TO ST. ANDREW'S CHILDRENS HOSPICE IN GRIMSBY

St Swithuns Lodge of Mark Master Masons which meet at the Masonic Hall, Crowle continued their record of charitable giving by making a donation of £500.00 to the St Andrew's Childrens Hospice which is based at Peakes Lane in Grimsby.



Ever the gentleman, W.Bro. Cliff Reeves lets his wife Pamela present the cheque to Mr Mike Gresham of St Andrews Hospice as he shakes hands.

W.Bro. Reeves, of St Swithuns Lodge MMM, took the opportunity to visit the hospice along with his wife Pamela before enjoying a visit to Cleethorpes. The presentation was going to be made by W.Bro. Mike Robinson the Lodge Charity Steward but, unfortunately, his wife Isabel broke her ankle and they could not attend.

St. Andrew’s Hospice really does make each day count. They provide holistic care for children and young people living throughout Lincolnshire, Hull and East Riding who have a progressive life limiting illness. Their main aims are to improve their quality of life, to bring fun into their everyday routines by providing specialist medical and nursing care and to keep them smiling. They also offer extensive help and support to their families and carers.

Visit the St Andrew's Children's Hospice web site by Clicking Here



ST WITHUNS LODGE OF MMM NO:445 CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

St Swithuns Lodge MMM No:445 had a wonderful night of celebration to mark their 100th Anniversary.

In addition to the ceremony, the evening was made all the more special by the presentation of a '50Years Certificate' to W.Bro. Victor Hirst PGStB by V.W.Bro. Trevor Kitchen the Deputy Provincial Grand Master together with a Rose Bowl and Stand which W.Bro. Cliff Reeves (WM) presented to W.Bro. Hirst on behalf of the Brethren of the Lodge.



Left to right: W.Bro. J. C. Board GSD the Provincial DC, V.W.Bro. T.H. Kitchen the DPGM, W.Bro. C.V. Hirst holding the Rose Bowl and W.Bro. C.M. Reeves.

St Swithuns Lodge of MMM No:445 meet on the fourth Wednesday, September (I), October, March, May and June at the Masonic Hall Crowle.



 

 

Festival 2018 

The 2018 150th Mark Benevolent Festival has come and gone. The countdown clock stopped on Saturday 7th July 2018. The party is over and the baton handed on to the Province of Sussex who will host the 151st Festival banquet on 6th July 2019 in Brighton. That's a short summary of what has been a tremendous effort on behalf of all Lincolnshire Mark and Royal Ark Mariners; their families and friends. The Festival weekend was a wonderful celebration and the culmination of many years of hard work by a lot of people. I thank everyone who took part, whether donating to the Festival or helping out at the numerous events that have been held.

I know that everyone who was at the Festival banquet on Saturday 7th July 2018 will never forget the moment when R.W. Bro Ryan Williams, the Grand Secretary, revealed the total raised for the 150th MBF Festival.

£853,023 is a staggering amount of money, raised over a short period of time and exceeds all expectations that anyone could have had when the Festival was officially launched in 2015.

Thank you to you all on behalf of the Lincolnshire 2018 Festival Committee.

Dave Wheeler
Lincolnshire Festival Committee Chairman

LINCOLNSHIRE 2018 - THE FESTIVAL RESULTS
	Published	Additions	Totals
Lincolnshire Mark Lodges	289,361	49,051	338,412
Lincolshire RAM Lodges	17,619	26,110	43,729
Unattached Lodges	4,024		4,024
Provinces and Districts	346,857	4,194	351,051
Other Masonic Orders	18,049		18,049
Other Donations	77,079	246	77,325
Total Donations	752,989	79,601	832,590
Interest Credited to the festival from MMH	20,300	133	20,433
Festival Total	773,289	79,734	853,023
In addition to the published figures a further £79,734 has been received as below:
Lincolnshire Mark Lodges	49,051
Lincolnshire RAM Lodges	26,110
Provinces:
Berkshire	250
Hong Kong	569
Oxfordshire	1,100
Wiltshire	1,000
Worcestershire	1,000
Other sundry donations	521
Interest	133
	79,734
Making a grand total of	853,023

 

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