Phœnix Lodge 516
Stowmarket Province of Suffolk
(i) in the Province and Districts by the Provincial or District Grand Master or,
(ii) In London and other places not under Districts, by the Grand Master.
In all respects the Members of this Lodge shall abide by, and strictly conform to the, Laws and Regulations of the United Grand Lodge of England, as embodied in the Book of Constitutions 1994 edi- tion.
PHŒNIX LODGE No.516
Should there be any objection to the introduction of a Candidate for Initiation or a Brother joining it, is rec- ommended that such objection be mentioned private- ly to the Master or Secretary, who may communicate with the proposer and give him the opportunity of withdrawing his Candidate.
Masonic Hall, Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket, Suffolk. IP14 1NH Telephone: 01449 674936
Approved by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of Suffolk
Signed by I. B. J. Ross Provincial Grand Secretary
14th December, 2001
PHŒNIX LODGE No.516
BY-LAWS February 2002
Phoenix Lodge No.516 By-Laws
1. The Lodge shall meet at Masonic Hall, Stowmarket, on the second Friday in each month from October to May inclusive, at such hour as the Master may direct.
6. Accounts:
9. Termination of Membership:
2. Election and Installation Meetings:
The Master and Treasurer shall be elected by ballot at
The Accounts shall be made up to 31st December in each year and be presented to the Lodge duly audit- ed, at the regular meeting in March succeeding the year end.
Any member desirous of terminating his membership of the Lodge shall tender his resignation in writing to the Secretary, or orally in open Lodge in accordance with Rule 183 Book of Constitutions, and he shall be entitled to the certificate mentioned in Rule 175 Book of Constitutions,stating the circumstances in which he left the Lodge. Should he at any time wish to rejoin, he shall be subject to the rules relating to join- ing members
the regular meeting in November.
7. Fees and Subscriptions:
The Master Elect shall be installed at the regular meeting in December.
The initiation fee shall be £50.00, joining and rejoin- ing £5.00, such fees to be exclusive of the annual subscriptions, and the candidate shall before becom- ing a member be advised of the total amount due. The annual subscription is due and payable in advance on 1st January and, shall be of such amount, as the Lodge shall from time to time determine by resolu- tion after proper notice on the summons. The Secretary’s services shall be deemed equivalent to payment of such subscription.the dining fee will be charged to all members at cost. The Master shall have the privilege of inviting two guests at each meeting free of cost. Any member whose subscription is in arrears after nine months shall be liable for exclusion from the Lodge, after, due notice, given in accor- dance with Rule 181 of the Book of Constitutions.
3. Election of Tyler:
10. Payment from Lodge Funds:
Subject to the provisions of Rule 113, Book of Constitutions, the Tyler shall be elected by a show of hands at the regular meeting in November.
Payment of any sum exceeding £100.00 if for other than ordinary purposes, may be made only by resolu- tion of the Lodge,of which notice has been given on the summons, except in case of emergency, when such payment may be authorised by the Master and reported to the Lodge at the next regular meeting.
4. Lodge Committee:
The Lodge Committee shall consist of the Master, Wardens, Past Masters of and in the Lodge, Treasurer, Secretary and two other members to be elected annually by the Lodge at the regular meeting in November.
11. Amendment of By-Law’s:
This Committee shall consider and report to the Lodge on all proposals for candidates for initiation and on any matters specially referred to it by the Lodge.
8. Admission of Candidates:
The admission of candidates for initiation, rejoining
(a) Notice of motion in writing stating the precise amendment or amendments proposed shall be given in open Lodge at a regular meeting.
Five members of the Committee shall form a quo- rum.
and joining shall be regulated by the provision of Rules 157 to 166 Book of Constitutions. On the bal- lot for any candidate two black balls shall exclude.
(b) The Motion shall be set out on the next summons for the next regular meeting or for an Emergency meeting summoned for the purpose, and shall at such meeting be put to the Lodge.
5. Audit Committee:
(c) A resolution for amendment, of which notice shall have been given as aforesaid, shall be carried if a majority of the members voting shall vote in favour of it, but it shall not be effective until approved.
The Audit Committee shall consist of two members of the Lodge, elected annually at the regular meeting in November.
Except as otherwise required by Rule 141 Book of Constitutions, amendment of these By-Laws or any of them may be made only in the following manner:-
OPENING
WM: May I wish all our visitors a warm a fraternal welcome, Brother Organist the opening ode.
WM: one SW one JW one
WM: Brethren assist me to open the Lodge.
ALL: rise (if not already standing after opening ode).
WM: names JW Bro.........., what is the first care of every Mason?
JW: To see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
WM: Direct that duty to be done.
JW: name IG Bro....., see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
IG: goes to door, does not open it, gives three distinct knocks
Tyler: responds with same knocks
IG: no Sp or Sn, names JW Bro....., the Lodge is properly tyled.
JW: Three distinct no Sp or Sn, to WM, no name The Lodge is properly tyled.
WM: names SW Bro....., the next care?
SW: To see that none but Masons are present.
WM: To order Brethren in the First Degree.
WM: Bro. JW, how many principal officers are their in the Lodge?
JW: Three: the WM, and the S and JWs.
WM: Bro. SW, how many assistant officers are there?
SW: Three, besides the T or OG: namely, the S and JDs, and the IG.
WM: to JW The situation of the T? JW: Outside the door of the Lodge. WM: His duty?
JW: Being armed with a drawn sword to keep off all intrud- ers and cowans to Masonry and to see that the Candidates are properly prepared.
WM: to SW The situation of the IG?
SW: Within the entrance of the Lodge.
WM: Bro Inner Guard your duty?
IG: To admit Masons of proof, receive the Candidates in due form, and obey the commands of the JW.
WM: to JW The situation of the JD? JW: at the right of the SW
WM: Bro. JD your duty?
JD: To carry all messages and communications of the WM from the S to the JW, and to see that the same are punc- tually obeyed.
WM: to SW The situation of the SD? SD: At or near to the right of the WM WM: Bro. SD your duty?
SD: To bear all messages and commands from the WM to the SW, and await the return of the JD.
WM: Bro JW, your place in the Lodge? JW: intheS,WM
WM: Why are you placed there?
JW: To mark the sun at its meridian, to call the Brethren from labour to refreshment and from refreshment to labour, that profit and pleasure may be the result.
WM: Bro. SW, your place in the Lodge? SW: IntheW,WM
WM: Why are you placed there?
SW: To mark the setting sun, to close the Lodge by command of the WM, after having seen that every Brother has had his due.
WM: to IPM Bro Immediate Past Master the Masters place IPM: in the E, WM
WM: Why is he place placed there?
SW: As the sun rises in the E to open and enliven the day, so the WM is placed in the E to open the Lodge, and employ and instruct the Brethren in Freemasonry.
WM: The Lodge being duly formed, before I declare it open
Chaplain: Let us invoke the assistance of the Great Architect of the Universe in all our undertakings; may our labours, thus begun in order, be conducted in peace, and closed in harmony
ALL: So mote it be.
WM: Brethren, in the name of the Great Architect of the Universe, I declare the Lodge duly open (ALL cut Sn) for the purposes of Freemasonry in the First Degree, for this the Phoenix Lodge Number 516 in particular.
WM: EA SW: EA
JW: EA
and raises Cn.
and lowers Cn
SW: TB is attended to when JW has given ks.
IG: goes to door, give EA ks and returns to position in front
of his chair.
Tyler: responds with same ks.
SD and JD should hold wands facing WM with birds facing forwards
IPM: meanwhile, opens VSL and arranges Sq and Cs.
VSL is placed so that the lodge can read it: pts of the Cs are directed away from WM and hidden by the arms of the Sq, angle towards WM.
WM sits when this had been completed.
All: the brethren take their seats when the WM sits.
The SD and JD return to their seats sq the lodge.
OPENING
All: So mote it be.
WM: Brethren, in the name of the Grand Geometrician of the Universe, I declare the Lodge duly open (All: cut Sn) on the Sq, for the instruction and improvement of Craftsmen.
WM: FC
SW: FC
JW: FC
IG: goes to door, gives FC ks and returns to position in front of his chair.
Tyler: responds with same ks.
SD: attends tracing board
SD and JD: then face WM with wands crossed
IPM: meanwhile, exposes on p of Cs.
SD and JD: lowers wands Sq. lodge and return to seats. WM: sits when this has been completed
All: Sit.
FIRST DEGREE OR CEREMONY OF INITIATION
Tyler: prepares Can and when ready to proceed with Ceremony gives three distinct ks. By giving the EA ks with longer intervals the Tyler indicates that the Can is ready
IG: rises, goes to left of SW Sp and EA Sn Bro JW there is a report holds sign
Before opening in the Second Degree WM normally request EAs to retire
WM: one SW one JW one
WM: Brethren assist me to open the Lodge in the Second
Degree.
All: rise, if not already standing.
IG: positions himself beside the SW
WM: Bro JW, what is the first care of every FC FM? JW: To see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
WM: Direct that duty to be done.
JW: Bro IG, see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
IG: goes to door, opens and look to see if the Lodge is prop- erly tyled.
Closed door and returns to his place beside the SW
IG: Sp and EA Sn Bro. JW, the Lodge is properly tyled - holds Sn
. Sp and EA Sn WM, the Lodge is properly tyled - cuts Sn.
IG: at the same time cuts sign and returns to his seat. WM: Bro SW, the next care?
SW: To see that the Brethren appear to order as Masons. WM: To order, Brethren, in the First Degree.
All: take Sp, with EA Sn.
WM: BroJW,areyouaFCFM?
JW: I am, WM, try me and prove me.
WM: By what instrument in architecture will you be proved? JW: The S.
WM: WhatisaS?
JW: An angle of 90 Degrees, or the fourth part of a Circle.
WM: Being yourself acquainted with the proper method, you will prove the Brethren Craftsmen, and demonstrate that proof to me by copying their example.
JW: Brethren, it is the WM’s command that you prove your- selves Craftsmen.
All: (except WM and JW) cut EA Sn, take Sp with FC Sn.
JW: having assured himself that all have proved themselves WM, the Brethren have proved themselves Craftsmen, and in obedience to your command I thus copy their example
cuts EA Sn; Sp and FC Sn.
WM: Bro JW I acknowledge the correctness of the Sn Cuts EA Sn, Sp and FC Sn.
WM: Before we open the Lodge in Second Degree
Chaplain: Let us supplicate the Grand Geometrician of the Universe, that the rays of Heaven may shed their influ- ence to enlighten us in the paths of virtue and science.
JW: EA
JW: seated, also give three distinct Sn
WM, there is a report holds sign
rises, Sp and EA
WM: Bro JW, inquire who wants admission
JW: cuts Sn and sits
Bro IG, see who wants admission
IG: cuts Sn and goes to door of Lodge, unlocks it, does not leave Lodge, but remains on threshold with hand on door handle, and assures himself that Can is properly prepared (The colloquy between IG and Tyler should be spoken loud enough for it to be heard in all parts of the Lodge).
IG: to Tyler - Whom have your there?
Tyler: Mr..................., a poor candidate in a state of d.... who has been well and worthily recommended, regularly pro- posed and approved in open Lodge, and now comes, of his own free will accord, properly prepared, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Freemasonry.
IG: How does he hope to obtain those privileges. Tyler: By the help of God, being free and of good report IG: Halt, while I report to the WM
Closes and locks door, return to position beside left of SW, Sp EA Sn which he holds.
IG: WM Mr..................., a poor candidate in a state of d.... who has been well and worthily recommended, regular- ly proposed and approved in open Lodge, and now comes, of his own free will accord, properly prepared, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Freemasonry.
WM: How does he hope to obtain those privileges.
IG: By the help of God, being free and of good report
WM: The tongue of good report has already been heard in his favour. Do you, Brother IG, vouch that he is properly prepared?
IG: I do, WM.
WM: Then let him be admitted in due form. IG: cuts Sn.
WM: Brother Deacons.
SD: places kneeling stool in position
IG: opens door, retaining hold on it as before, presents p[ to Can’s n l b.
Do you feel anything
and after affirmation answer from Can raises the p above his head to show that he has so presented it.
JD: withlhtakesCanfirmlybyrh(SDonCan’sleftor behind) and leads him to the kneeling stool, All three stand facing E.
IG: after Can is admitted, closes and locks door, gives p to SD (to take to the WM) and resumes his seat.
SECOND DEGREE OR CEREMONY OF PASSING
The Lodge is open in the First Degree
WM: request EAs other than Can to withdraw and indicates with appropriate words that the next business is to pass Bro................
JD: goes to Can, (usually seated in the N W of Lodge) takes him by r h and leads him to position N or SW’s ped both facing E and releases h.
WM: Brethren, Bro....... is the evening a Can to be passed to the Second Degree but it is first requisite that he give proofs of proficiency in the former. I shall therefore pro- ceed to put the necessary questions
to Can
Where were you first prepared to be made a Mason?
JD: must be prepared, if necessary, to prompt Can. Can: In my h....
WM: Where next?
Can: In a convenient room adjoining the Lodge. WM: Describe the mode of your preparation.
Can: I was d...v...d of m...l and h...w...d. My r a, l b, and k were made b, my r h was s s and a c t placed about my n.
WM: Where were you made a Mason?
Can: In the body of the Lodge, just, perfect, and regular. WM: And when?
Can: When the sun was at its meridian.
WM: In this country Freemasons’ Lodges are usually held in the evening; how do you account for that which at first view appears a paradox?
Can: The earth constantly revolving on its axis in its orbit round the sun and Freemasonry being universally spread over its surface, it necessarily follows that the sun must always be at its meridian with respect to Freemasonry.
WM: What is Freemasonry?
Can: A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and
illustrated by symbols.
WM: Name the grand principles on which the Order is found- ed.
Can: Brotherly love, relief and truth.
WM: Who are fit and proper persons to be made Masons?
Can: Just, upright and free men, of mature age, sound judge- ment, and strict morals.
WM: How do you know yourself to be a Mason?
Can: By the regularity of my initiation, repeated trials and approbations, and a willingness at all times to undergo an examination when properly called on.
WM: How do you demonstrate the p of your being a Mason to others?
Can: By sns, ts, and the perfect pts of my entrance.
WM: These are the usual questions: I will put others if any
Brother wishes me to do so.
All: may wish to answer (very well answered WM) if they
think it justly to do so.
JD: conducts Can by r h direct to N side of WM’s ped and a convenient distance from it, both facing S. Releases hand.
WM: Do you pledge on your honour as man, and your fidelity as a Mason, that you will steadily persevere through the ceremony of being passed to the Degree of a FC?
JD: prompting Can aloud I do (Can repeats)
WM: do you likewise pledge yourself that you will conceal what I shall now impart to you with the same strict cau- tion as the other secrets in Masonry?
JD: prompting - I do
WM: The I will entrust you with a test of merit, which is a p g and p w leading to the Degree to which you seed to be admitted.
Rises, faces Can, and takes the latter’s r h in his own r h and holds it
This p g if given
adjusts p g by placing Can’s t in position before placing his own
by a distinct p of the t between t f a s js o t h. This p g demands a p w, which is.......
JD: prompting Can, speaks word aloud
WM: ..... denotes p and is usually depicted in our Lodges by a e o c near to a f o w. You must be particularly careful to remember this word, as without it you cannot gain admission into a Lodge in a superior degree. Pass, ...........
restores Can’s r h to l h of JD and sits.
JD: guiding Can, makes a clockwise wheel and conducts Can direct to N of SW’s ped. Here he wheels Can clock- wise face E and releases hand.
(to Can - side step right, to correct position step off with you left foot).
JD: to Can
Salute the WM as a Mason.
instructs Can in whisper to take Sp, give EA Sn and cut it.
JD: takes Can by r h, makes anti-clockwise wheel with Can and conducts him to door.
IG: goes to door in front of JD and opens it, closing and locking it again when Can has gone out.
IG: return to seat.
JD & SD return to seats.
THE PASSING
WM: conducts Opening the Lodge in Second Degree or Resumes in that degree whichever is appropriate. This will conclude with_
WM: FC quietly (ie, given so as to be audible only in
the Lodge).
SW: FC quietly. JW: FC quietly
IG: gives knocks.
Tyler: gives knocks.
IPM: meanwhile, exposes on p of Cs.
Tyler: prepares Can including EA badge and Ceremony pro- ceeds.
IG: Let Tyler know when ready (ie turn door handle). Tyler: gives EA ks on door. This informs Lodge that a Can for
Passing is at the door of the Lodge.
IG: rises in front of his chair (to the left of the SW), Sp and FC Sn
Bro JW, there is a report.
hold Sn.
JW: no ks, rises, Sp and FC Sn WM there is a report.
holds Sn.
WM: Bro JW, inquire who wants admission. JW: cuts Sn and sits
Bro IG, see who wants admission.
IG: cuts Sn, goes to door, opens it, checks that Can is prop- erly prepared and remains on threshold with hand on door handle; to Tyler (Colloquy between IG and Tyler should be audible throughout Lodge).
IG: Whom have you there?
Tyler: Bro................ who has been regularly initiated into Freemasonry and has made such progress as he hopes will recommend to be passed to the Degree of a FC, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
IG: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Second Degree?
Tyler: By the help of God, the assistance of the Sq and the benefit of a p w.
IG: Is he in possession of the p w?
Tyler: Will you prove him?
IG: receives p g and p w from Can (Tyler prompts if neces- sary).
IG: Halt while I report to the WM
closes and locks door, return to position to left of SW, Sp and FC Sn, which he holds.
IG: WM, Bro................ who has been regularly initiated into Freemasonry and has made such progress as he hopes will recommend to be passed to the Degree of a FC, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
WM: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Second Degree?
IG: By the help of God, the assistance of the Sq and the benefit of a p w.
WM: We acknowledge the propriety of the aid by which he seeks admission. Do you, Bro IG, vouch that he is in possession of the p w?
IG: I do, WM.
WM: Then let him be admitted in due form.
IG: cuts Sn.
WM: Bro. Deacons.
JD: places kneeling stool in position.
IG: takes Sq and goes to door followed by JD and SD
IG: opens door, retaining hold on it, and applies the angle of the Sq to Can’s n l b, and then raises Sq above his head to show that he has so applied it.
SD: with l h takes Can by r h JD on Can’s left or behind) and leads him to the kneeling stool about on short pace from it and release h. All three stand facing E.
IG: after Can is admitted closes and locks and resumes his seat.
SD: to Can - Advance as a Mason
and ensures that Can takes Sp, give and cuts EA Sn.
WM: Let the Can kneel while the blessing of Heaven is invoked on what we are about to do.
SD: ensures Can kneels and gives Sn of R WM: one
SW: one
JW: one
Ds hold wands in l h, cross them over (SW wand in front) head of Can and give Sn of R.
Chaplain: We supplicate the continuance of Thine aid, O mer- ciful Lord, on behalf of ourselves and him who kneels before Thee. May the work begun in Thy Name be continued to Thy Glory and evermore established in us by obedience to Thy precepts
All: So mote it be. drop Sn or R.
Ds: uncross wands and hold them again in r h.
THIRD DEGREE OR CEREMONY OF RAISING
The Lodge is open in the Second Degree
WM: request FCs other than Can to withdraw and indicates with appropriate words that the next business is to raise Bro................
JD: goes to Can, (usually seated in the S W of Lodge) takes him by r h and leads him to position N or SW’s ped both facing E and releases h.
WM: Brethren, Bro... is this evening a Can to be raised to the Third Degree, but it is first that he give proofs of profi- ciency in the Second. I shall therefore proceed to put the necessary questions
to can
How were you prepared to be passed to the Second Degree
SD: must be prepared, if necessary, to prompt Can.
Can: In a manner somewhat similar to the former, save that in this Degree I was not h w, my l a, b and r k were made b and my l h was s s.
WM: On what were you admitted?
Can: The sq.
WM: What is a sq?
Can: Anangleof...dgrs,orthefpofac.
WM: What are the peculiar objects of research in this Degree? Can: The hidden mysteries of Nature and Science.
WM: As it is the hope of reward that sweetens labour, where did our ancient brethren go to receive their wages?
Can: IntothemcofKST.
WM: How did they receive them? Can: Without scruple or diffidence. WM: Why in this peculiar manner?
Can: Without scruple, well knowing they were justly entitled to them, and without diffidence, from the great reliance they placed on the integrity of their employers in those days.
WM: What were the names of the two great Ps which were placed at the p...way or e of K S T?
Can: That on the l was called ...., and that on the r .......
WM: What are their separate and conjoint significations?
Can: The former denotes in ........, the latter to .........; and when conjoined ......., for God said, ‘In ....... I will estab- lish this Mine house to stand firm for ever.’
WM: These are the usual questions; I will put others if any Brother wishes me to do so.
All: may wish to answer (very well answered WM) if they think it justly to do so.
SD: conducts Can by rh direct to N side of WM’s ped and a convenient distance from it, both facing S and released h.
WM: Do you pledge on your honour as a man and your fideli- ty as a Craftsman that you will steadily persevere through the ceremony of being raised to the sublime Degree of a MM?
SD: prompting Can aloud - I do (Can repeats).
WM: Do you likewise pledge yourself that you will conceal what I shall now impart to you with the same strict cau- tion as the other secrets in Masonry?
SD: prompting Can aloud - I do (Can repeats).
WM: Then I will entrust you with a test of merit, which is a p
g and p w leading to the Degree to which you seek to be admitted
rises, faces Can, and takes the latter’s rh in his own rh and holds it.
The p g is given by a d p o t t b t s a t js o t h
adjusts p g by placing Can’s t in position before placing his own
The p g demands a p w, which is T C
SD: prompting Can, speaks word aloud (Can repeats).
WM: T C was the first a in ms. The import of the word is ...... ........... You must be particularly careful to remember this word as without it you cannot gain admission into a Lodge in a superior degrees. Pass, T C
restores Can’s r h to l h of S D and sits.
SD: guiding Can, makes a clockwise wheel and conducts him direct of N of SW’s ped. Here he wheels Can clock- wise so as to face E and releases h.
SD: toCanaloud-SalutetheWMasaFC,firstasanEA instructs Can in a whisper to take Sp, give EA Sn and cut it; taken another Sp and give FC Sn and cut it.
SD: takes Can by r h, makes anticlockwise wheel with Can and conducts him to door.
IG: goes to door in front of S D and opens it, closing and locking it again when Can has gone out.
IG & SD: return to seats.
WM:
THE RAISING
conducts Opening the Lodge in Third Degree or Resumes in that degree whichever is appropriate, This will conclude with-
WM:
SW: MM
quietly (ie given so as to be audible only in the Lodge).
MM
quietly
quietly
gives knocks standing in his place
exposes tracing board
JW: MM
IG:
SD:
SD and JD: face WM with wands raised
IPM: meanwhile, exposes both ps of Cs.
Ds: lay down and open s.
Tyler: prepares Can including FC badge and Ceremony pro-
ceeds-
Tyler: gives FC ks on door. this informs Lodge that a Can for Raising is at the door of the Lodge.
IG: rises in front of chair walks to NW of lodge, Sp and MM P Sn
Bro. JW there is a report
holds Sn.
JW: no ks, rises, Sp and MM P Sn WM, there is a report
holds Sn.
WM: Bro JW, inquire who wants admission. JW: cuts Sn and recovers, and sits
Bro IG, see who wants admission.
IG: cuts Sn and recovers, goes to door, opens it, checks that Can is properly prepared, and remains on threshold with hand on door handle (Colloquy between IG and Tyler should be audible through Lodge).
IG: to Tyler
Whom have your there?
Tyler: Bro......... who has been regularly initiated into Freemasonry, passed to the Degree of a FC, and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him to be raised to the sublime Degree of a MM, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
IG: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree?
Tyler: By the help of God, the united aid of the S and Cs. and the benefit of a p w.
IG: Is he he possession of the p w?
Tyler: Will you prove him?
IG: receives p g and pw from Can Tyler: prompts if neces- sary
IG: Halt, while I report to the WM
closes and locks door, returns to position NW of SW, Sp and MM P Sn which he holds.
IG: WM Bro......., who has been regularly initiated into Freemasonry, passed to the degree of a FC, and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him
to be raised to the sublime Degree of a MM, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
WM: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree?
IG: By the help of God, the united aid of the S and Cs, and the benefit of a p w.
WM: We acknowledge the powerful aid by which he seeks admission; do you, Bro IG, vouch that he is in posses- sion of the p w?
IG: I do, WM.
WM: Then let him be admitted in due for. IG: cuts Sn and recovers.
WM: Bro Deacons
JD: places kneeling stool in position
IG: takes Cs and goes to door followed by JD and SD
it is at this point that all ls except that of the WM are extinguished (usually by IG)
IG: opens door, retaining hold on it as before, applies extended Cs to both bs of Can and then raised Cs above his head (or door) to show that he has so applied them.
SD: with l h takes Can by r j (JD on Can’s l or behind) leads him to kneeling stool, two short paces from it and releases h. All three stand facing E.
IG: after Can is admitted closes and locks door and resumes his seat.
SD: to Can Advance as a FC, first as an EA
ensures that Can takes Sp and gives and cuts EA Sn, then takes second Sp and gives and cuts FC Sn.
WM: Let the Can kneel while the blessing of Heaven is invoked on what we are about to do.
SD: ensures Can kneels and gives Sn of R. WM: one
SW: one
JW: one
Ds: hold wands in l h cross them over head of Can and give Sn of R.
All: stand with Sn of R.
Chaplain: Almighty and Eternal God, Architect and Ruler of the Universe, at Whose creative fiat all things first were made, we, the frail creatures of Thy providence, humbly implore Thee to pour down on this convocation assembled in Thy Holy Name and continual dew of Thy blessing. Especially, we beseech Thee to impart Thy grace to this Thy servant, who offers himself a Candidate to partake with us the mysterious Scts of a MM. Endue him with such fortitude that in the hour of trial he fail not, but that, passing safely under Thy protection through the valley of the shadow of death, he may finally rise from the tomb of transgression, to shine as the stars for ever and ever.
All: So mote it be drop Sn of R.
Ds: uncross wands and hold them again in r h. WM: Let the Candidate rise (He does so)
Phœnix Lodge No.516
A
History of Phœnix Lodge No.516
In the County of Suffolk From 1754-1980
Compiled by the late W.Bro. M. R. Catton Phœnix Lodge 1978-79
References
Freemasons Guide and Compendum by B. E. Jones Minute Book 1793-1829
London Period Returns 1776-1797
Report of Consecration F.Q.R. 1845
Freeman F.W. Sermon at Consecration
Lodge Files
Prentice J. Manning. History of Phœnix Lodge 1932
Thanks to
W.Bro Matt Howell for Asking Questions I could not Answer
J. M. Manill, Assistant Librarian of Freemasons Library Gt. Queen Street, London
2
IMPORTANT DATES
2 March 1754 No.104
8 January 1793 No.104
September 1797 No.104
11 December 1798 No.104 24 September 1801 No.104
22 November 1802 No.104
27 December 1813 No.129
December 1832 No.104 December 1838 No.104
1840-1862 No.104
21 August 1845 No. 757 1936 No.516
Meeting Under Warrant Issued by Moderns Grand Lodge at Mitre Tavern, Union Street, Westminster
Rose and Crown Lodge, Rose and Crown Inn, Crown Street,Westminster.
Mitre and Dove Inn, King Street,Westminster Becomes Dormant.
Mitre and Dove Inn. Cleared all Outstanding Business
New Name
Phœnix Lodge Transferred to Stowmarket
Union of 2 Grand Lodges. Phœnix Given New Number
Numbers Closed up Surrender Warrant and Erased
Warrant used by Lodge in Bridgetown, Barbados
New Number issued for New Phœnix Warrant
Numbering System Closed Up for Last Time
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A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516
Stowmarket
In the Province of Suffolk from 1754 to 1980
Before one can begin a study of the History of Phœnix Lodge and its several changes in Lodge numbers, one must first refer briefly to the change taking place during the last decade of the 18th century and early part of the 19th century to Grand Lodge itself. Up to 1813 there were two Grand Lodges, namely the Ancients and the Modern’s Grand Lodges. On the 27th December 1813 these two bodies were joined under the name of the United Grand Lodge of England, who then began a new register of numbers by giving alternately first one number to the oldest Ancients Lodge, the second to the senior Modern’s Lodge and so on.
Phœnix Banner - Embroidered Richard Tydeman
A search of the library in Freemasons Hall reveals that the first Warrant was granted on 2nd March 1744 when the Lodge met at the MitreTavern in Union Street,Westminster.However the earliest recorded minutes of the Lodge which was ultimately to become Phœnix Lodge, begin with a meeting of the Rose and Crown Lodge No.104 on Tuesday 8th January 1793 at the Rose and Crown Inn, Crown Street,Westminster
At that meeting the Minutes of the two previous meetings were read and confirmed and a resolution was carried ‘that in future no Negus be suffered to be drunk at the Lodge at the Lodge expense.’ From this we may inter that the actual Lodge meetings were rather more free and easy than in the present days.The minutes also record a letter form the Grand Lodge respecting payment of 5/- by every Initiate, the money to be applied toward the support of the Royal Cumberland Masonic School.
Also Mr. Cotter was initiated into the 1st and passed through the 2nd degree and he paid the fee of £2.2.0.
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Annexed to the Minutes is a list of members which shows that the membership was then 24 to which is added a list of 5 visitors all of St. Lukes Lodge, Chelsea who were present on the occasion and contributed the sum of 7/6 to the funds.
Nine meetings were held during the year and at the meeting in June 1793 an alteration of the By-laws was confirmed and immediately thereafter the Master of the Lodge was fined for keeping the Lodge open after the time for closing the same fixed by the new By-laws.
In November 1793 it was recorded that a Brother objecting to paying the whole of his quarterages and being refractory his name was unanimously erased from the books of the Lodge.
In all these early minutes we find that the Master of the Lodge was elected for six months only, so there are frequent elections and on every occasion the Master chose his own officers without regard to seniority and even such important officers as the Wardens and Secretary held their offices for but a short time.
At the Meeting in May 1797 it was resolved that the Lodge be moved from this house on condition ‘the Landlord do come forward and take the pardon of the Brethren’ and at the
...‘the Landlord do come forward and take the pardon of the Brethren’...
following meeting the resolution was considered to be done away with, the Landlord having ‘come forward in a manner perfectly satisfactory to the Brethren.’Trouble however again arose with the Landlord in September 1797 after a meeting which seems to have shown a certain liveliness when the Landlord was offered 10/6 for broken glasses and ‘if not accepted, he must look to the members who broke them.’ At the November meeting, the Landlord on being asked whether he wished to accommodate the Lodge at his house, replied that he would rather have it removed, and it was resolved that the Lodge be removed to Brother Gyders and on the same evening the 10/6 was tendered to the Landlord who accepted the same.
The Lodge was presumably removed at once to Brother Gyders for the subsequent minutes refer to the Lodge being held at the Mitre and Dove, King Street,Westminster.
After the meeting in June 1798 there was no meeting until November 1798 when there were only 5 members present and it was proposed that ‘on account of the confusion occasioned by the death of the Tyler, a special summons be prepared and delivered as soon as possible for convocation of the members on the next regular meeting day.’
This meeting was held on 11th December 1798 when only three Brethren attended and the mins state that ‘the Members not having met agreeable to a particular summons, Brother Parkhurst and Brother Watts cleared the books and stopped their names.’ So apparently all the other Brethren were excluded by the action of the three Brethren present and the next meeting was held nearly three years later on the 24th September 1801 by four of the older Brethren and 5 Visitors from Lodges No. 92 and 225 when the meeting was evidently held
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again at the Mitre and Dove.Trouble again arose with the Landlord, the entry in the minute being, ‘The Lodge having discontinued to meet for a considerable time on account of the loss of the Jewels through the dishonesty of the Tyler and other circumstances, Brother Gyder made a demand of 1/6 per week for the whole term which the Lodge had lain dormant and expressing his disapprobation to entertain the members any longer at his house.’ Brother Parkhurst moved that the Lodge be regularly summoned according to the Constitution to make Brother Gyder reasonable amends for his care of the furniture and to determine on a proper place for their future accommodation.
No more meetings were held for another year, but presumably the claim of the Landlord was satisfied for the only remaining meeting of the lodge at Westminster was held at the same house, the Mitre and Dove on 22nd November 1802 when 6 Brethren were present, none of whose names so far as I can see appear on any previous Minutes as Members of the Lodge or at any subsequent meetings as members of the Lodge and I can only conclude that they were divers freemasons who satisfied the Landlord’s claim and took over the Warrant and the furniture for the purpose appearing in the Minutes which show:
1 The Minutes of the Previous Meeting were read and confirmed.
2 Brother Jay of Badley in the County of Suffolk, Merchant was elected a member of the Lodge.
3 Brother Jay was elected Master of the Lodge.
4 Brother Jay proposed and it was resolved that Lodge be removed to The Kings Head, Stowmarket, Suffolk.
5 Brother Jay proposed and it was resolved that this Lodge be henceforth called the
Phœnix Lodge.
Stowmarket Masonic Centre 2004
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Therefore it does seem reasonable to assume that Brother Jay named the Lodge thus, as he did in fact raise his lodge from the ashes of the previous one.And so next month on 27th December 1802 we find a meeting of the Phœnix Lodge held at the Kings Head, Stowmarket with Brother Jay as Worshipful Master and 6 other Brethren. Brother Jay appointed these 6 Brethren to the various offices of the Lodge (through when they were made masons does not appear).The Minutes of the Meeting held at the Mitre and Dove were read and confirmed and a special meeting was ordered for the following month for the purpose of passing and raising some of the Brethren to which meeting.Visitors should be invited in order to assist in the ceremony.This meeting was subsequently held on 4th January 1803 when Brothers Butcher,Roffe andTalboys all of Lodge Perfect Friendship No.389 were present and presumably assisted in the Ceremony.
...Brother Jay named the Lodge thus, as he did in fact raise his lodge from the ashes of the previous one.
No less than fourteen meetings were held during 1803 but there were usually only 7 or 8 members present.
In September 1805 it was resolved by a majority of one that the Lodge be removed to the White Hart Inn, Stowmarket kept by Brother Boldero who was a member of the Lodge.This resolution was confirmed in October and the November meeting was held at the White Hart.
All now proceeded smoothly until April 1806 when on the appointment of a new Secretary it was resolved ‘That the Tyler be sent to all Brethren who are in arrears of their quaterages will the full power to demand the same and that his receipt shall be a full discharge.That if any Brother shall refuse to pay the Tyler when demanded he shall be reported to the Grand Lodge of England and be absolutely expelled from the Lodge. Also that as well as expelling the Brother refusing to pay,‘he shall also be proceeded against in a legal manner to recover the same and that by virtue of the Bye-laws already established, it was agreed that a copy of the said Resolutions be given to the Tyler by the Secretary by him, shown to all the Brethren against who he had any demand.’
At the next meeting on the 20th April 1806 the Tyler produced a copy of the Resolution entered into at the last Lodge Meeting and his return which was a follows:
Brother Howe.............................................................promised payment Brother Halls ...................................................................gave no answer Brother Fenton ....................................................................not at home Brother Callow...............................................came forward this evening Brother Smith ...........................................................................did same Brother Easthaugh..........................................promised to come forward Brother Pattle ...........................................................paid his quarterages
‘In consequence of the above report it is this night resolved upon absolutely that the consideration of the above statement be deferred until next St. Johns at which time the Bye- laws will be actually enforced and all brethren are required to take notice thereof accordingly.’
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At a meeting on December 1806 it was resolved by 3 Black Beans instead of one should lead to the rejection of candidate and as the usual attendance at these meetings was still only 7 or 8, it would appear that election to the Lodge become an easy matter.
...3 Black Beans instead of one should lead to the rejection of candidate
At the meeting at the White Hart on 15th September 1807 the members judged it improper to proceed to any business on account of some Military Officers being in the adjoining room and in October 1808 the regular meeting was held on Sunday 9th October and in consequence of Brothers Boldero leaving this inn and the house being shut up as a Public House, and it was resolved that the Lodge be removed to the House of Brother Ungless at the White Horse in Stowmarket. This was accordingly done and Brother Ungless was appointed Secretary.
At a meeting held at the White Horse on 7th February 1809 separate charges were exhibited against Brother Thompson and Brother Kent for acting inconsistent to the rules of Masonry. The R.W.M. has ordered summonses to be sent to every Brother requiring his attendance at halfpast 5 o’clock on the 7th March next, to take into consideration the said separate charges and determine the same with candor and justice. At the next meeting in May 1809 it was resolved that ‘notice be sent to Brother Thompson and Kent to summon them to attend next Lodge Night in order to make their defence against the charges exhibited against them last Lodge night,’ and on 3rd May 1809 ‘the conduct of Brother Thompson of Beccles, late a member of this Lodge was investigated and it was agreed that a letter should be sent to Brother Thompson to acquaint him that this Lodge is of the opinion that his conduct lately is very reprehensible indeed, he having acted extremely inconsistent to the character of a Mason and that unless he makes a proper apology to this Lodge, his conduct will be exposed to the Lodge of Masons at Beccles of which he means to become a member. No indication is given as to the nature of his offence but certain inferences may be drawn from the following information. Brother Thompson was the Tyler up to 8th November 1808. At the previous meeting on 11th October 1808 the minutes state that ‘The Lodge was opened in the 1st Degree. Mr. Simpson on coming to the door was so alarmed that he declined being made.Afterwards the Lodge was closed with Harmony and Good Fellowship.’Two meetings later Brother Thompson is accused of character unbecoming to a Mason as we have already heard.The Minutes do not give any indication whether there was any connection between the two incidents but one cannot help wondering whether it was the conduct of the Tyler outside the door of the Lodge which so frightened Mr. Simpson.
The Lodge subsequently ‘forbear to report him at present in consideration of his wife and family, he being newly set up in trade in the said town it might considered hurt him therein.’ The conduct of Brother Kent was next brought forward and it was put to the ballot whether he be expelled or several reprimanded and suffered to remain a member - the majority was
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for the latter, the Lodge always preferring lenient measures.
At the meeting of 17th February 1815 the minutes state that Brother Sparrow DPGM attended to give the Brethren instructions agreeable to the new form adopted by the Grand Lodge in consequence of Union and in the same minutes appears the alterations of the number of the Lodge from 104 to 129.
In March 1815 owing to Brother Ungless being about to leave the White Horse, it was resolved that the Lodge be removed to Brother Ranson’s at the Queens Head and subsequent meetings were held their, and at a meeting held there in December 1816 were read the letters from the Grand Lodge in London and also the Laws and Regulations for the government of the Craft established by the Provincial Grand Lodge at Ipswich in August 1815, which were unanimously approved by the Brethren present and it was agreed that the Master andWardens of this Lodge should attend the next meeting of the British Union Lodge for the purpose of instruction. and whose laws they agreed to abide by.
At the next meeting the Lodge was moved back to the White Horse and in June 1818 it was once more moved to the White Hart.
From this date on for several years, a noticeable feature is that the Lodge had a constant influx of new members, most of whom only remained members for about one year, so that there were frequent changes in membership without any appreciable alteration in the numbers, and it is obvious that Masonry was not at all flourishing in the town of Stowmarket. So we come to the last entry in the old Minute Book of a meeting on 24th June 1829 with only 5 members present when it was resolved ‘that all members whose arrears of quarterages are not paid up by the next Lodge night be immediately erased from the Lodge Register.’
In 1832, owing to the closing up of the numbers by Grand Lodge, the Lodge reverted to the old number of 104, and 6 years later in 1838 Phœnix Lodge No.104 was erased and the Warrant surrendered.
...in 1838 Phœnix Lodge No.104 was erased and the Warrant surrendered.
The adventures of this Warrant however had not quite come to an end for the Warrant with the No.104 was issued by Grand Lodge to a Lodge into Bridgetown, Barbados and used by them from 1840-1862 when it was finally erased.
Stowmarket however could not remain for long without a Lodge of Freemasons and in less than 7 years after the previous Lodge was erased a meeting was held to confirm a new Lodge.
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Petition of Lodge 757, Fox Inn, Stowmarket
15th July 1845
To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Fraternity of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of England.
We, the undersigned, being regular registered Mason of the Lodge mentioned against our respective names, having the prosperity of the Craft at heart, are anxious to exert our best endeavours to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of the art, and for the conveniency of our respective dwellings andothergoodreasons,wearedesirousof forming a new Lodge to be names the Phœnix Lodge.
In consequence of this desire we pray for
a Warrant of Constitution impowering
us to meet as a regular Lodge at the Fox
Inn, Stowmarket on the Wednesday on
or before the fullmoon of every month
and there to discharge the duties of Masonry in a constitutional manner according to the forms of the order and the Laws of the Grand Lodge.
And we have nominated and do recommend Brother Frederick William Freeman to be the 1st Master, Brother William Leedes Fox to be the 1st SeniorWarden and BrotherThomas Batman Beck to be the 1st JuniorWarden.
The prayer of this petition being granted, we promise strict obedience to the commands of the Grand Master and the Laws and Regulations of Grand Lodge.
Early Phœnix Banner
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Frederick William Freeman, chaplain William Leedes Fox, Solicitor Thomas Batman Beck Surgeon Robert Thorns P.M.
Thomas Orams Mastersmith Robert Peck
William Andrews
The cost of the Warrant was £5.5.0.
British Union Lodge No.131, Ipswich
Perfect Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich
Perfect Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich
Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket
Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket
Late Angel Lodge No.59 Colchester and 272 Ipswich.
Late Phœnix Lodge, Stowmarket
The Minute Book of the present Phœnix Lodge commences with the Minutes of a Meeting held
at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket on 21st August, 1845 when 10 Freemasons some of whom were members of the old Lodge, met and held a Lodge meeting. the Lodge having opened in the 1st Degree it was stated by the W.M. that the petition of Bros. F.W. Freeman,W.L. Fox,T.B. Beck, R . T h o r n s , R . P e c k T.
Orams and W. Andrews praying the M.W.G.M. to form them into a Lodge to be called the Phœnix Lodge in Stowmarket had been duly presented and that the prayer of the Petition had been granted.
Bro. Frederick William Freeman
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Warrant
To all and every our RightWorshipful,Worshipful and Loving Brethren.
WE.Thomas Dundas, Earl of Zetland, Baron Dundas of Aske in the County of York etc. etc.
Grand Master
of the Most Ancient and Honourable of free and accepted Masons of England SEND GREETINGS.
KNOW YE
That we by the authority and under the sanction of the United Grand Lodge of England vested in US for the purpose and at the humble Petition of our Right Trusty and well beloved Brethren, Frederick william Freeman, William Leedes Fox, Thomas Batman Beck, Robert Thorn, thomas Oram, Robert Peck and William Andrews DO hereby constitute the Brethren into a Lodge of free and accepted Masons under the title or denomination of No.516.
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The Phœnix Lodge
the said Lodge to meet at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket in the county of Suffolk on the Wednesday on or before the full moon of every month empowering them in the said Lodge when duly congregated to make, pass, and raise Free Masons according to the ancient custom of the Craft in all ages and Nations throughout the known World.And further at their said Petition and of the great trust and confidence reposed in every of the above named Brethren.We do appoint the said Frederick William Freeman to be the first Master, the said William Leedes Fox to be the first Senior Warden, and the said Thomas Batman Beck to be the first Junior Warden for opening and holding the said Lodge and until such time as another master shall be regularly elected and installed, strictly charging that every Member who shall be elected to preside over the said Lodge and who must previously have duly served as Warden in a warranted Lodge shall be installed in ancient form and according to the Laws of the Grand Lodge that he may thereby be fully invested with the dignities and powers of his office. And we do require you, the said Frederick William Freeman to take special care that all and every the said Brethren are or have been regularly made Masons and that you and they and all other Members of the said Lodge do observe, perform and keep the Laws, Rules and orders contained in the Book of Constitution and all other which may from time to time be made by our Grand Lodge or transmitted by us on our Successors Grand Masters or by our Deputy Grand Master for the time being. And we do enjoin you to make such Byelaws for the Government of you Lodge as shall to the Majority of the Members appear proper and necessary, the same not being contrary to or inconsistent with the General Laws and regulations of the Craft, a copy where you are to transmit to us.And we do require you to cause all such Byelaws and Regulations and also an account of the proceedings in you Lodge to be entered in a book to be kept for that purpose.And you are in nowise to omit to send to us or our Successors Grand Masters or to the Right Honourable Richard William Penncurzone Howe, Earl Howe,Viscount and Baron Curzon of Penn and Baron Howe G.C.H., Lord Chamberlain to Her Majesty, Queen Adelaide etc. etc. etc. our Deputy Grand Master or to the Deputy Grand Master for the time being, at least once in every year, a list of the Members of your Lodge and the names and descriptions of all Masons initiated therein and Brethren who shall have joined the same with the fees and monies payable thereon. It being our will and intention that while our Warrant of Constitution shall continue in force so long only as you shall conform to the Laws and regulations of our Grand Lodge.And you the said Frederick William Freeman are further required as soon as conveniently maybe, to send us an account in writing of what shall be done by virtue of these presents.
GIVEN under our Hands and the Seal of the Grand Lodge at London this 17th July A. L. 5845. A.D. 1845
BY COMMAND of the M.W. Grand Master
WILLIAM H.WHITEA G.S. HOWE. D.G.M
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Extract from Freemasons Quarterly Review 1845
Under Provincial, Stowmarket No.1
The Lodges in this County were augmented by the revival of the Phœnix Lodge formerly No.129 now 757 - a new Warrant having been granted by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, Bro. J. M. Clark W.M. of the Perfect Friendly Lodge 552, Ipswich constituted, and Bro. G. Bullen P.D.P.G.M. British Union Lodge 131 consecrated the new Lodge. The brethren from Colchester, Ipswich, Woodbridge, Bury St. Edmunds, Hadleigh, Eye and other places, mustered about 100, formed in procession at the Fox Inn and proceeded to the Assembly Rooms where the Lodge was held and opened in due form.A collection was made afterwards for the benefit of the National Schools in that place and the procession being reformed, proceeded to the church, where a most eloquent sermon was delivered by For. Rev. F.W. Freeman, M.A. W.M. Elect of the new Lodge and Chaplain to the Brition Union Lodge 131, from the 6th Chapter of Galatians 9th and 10thVerses.The Past Provincial Grand Organist Bro. Foster presided at the organ with his usual kindness and capability. After divine service, the Brethren returned to the Lodge Room, where refreshments were served and the Ladies admitted.About 60 of the Brethren retired to the banquet which was served up in a commodious apartment constructed in the Corn Exchange. It was provided by Mr. J. Lockwood, Landlord of the Fox Inn and the dinner and wine certainly were a credit to him (he was one of the unfortunates whose initiation was compelled to be deferred).The room was well lighted with gas, laid on for the express purpose and tastefully decorated with the banners of the different Lodge, flags, flowers, evergreens etc.The chair was taken by the W.M. of the Phœnix Lodge No.757 supported on his right by Bro. G. Bullen P.D.P.G.M., Bro. the Rev. F. Whitley, W.M. Prince Edwins Lodge 751 and on his left by Bro. J.M. Clark, W.M. Perfect Friendship Lodge 522. After the removal of the cloth, the Chairman rose and gave the health of our most gracious Majesty ‘The Queen’ and other loyal toasts and afterwards, the Earl of Zetland, our M.W.G.M. and the other usual Masonic toasts. Many other toasts were drank and suitable replies given by a great many of the Brethren who did not part until a late hour, all well pleased at the termination of the days or work.
We ought not to forget to add that the whole of the furniture of the new Lodge, jewels etc. were supplied by Bro. E. Dorling of Ipswich in first rate style.
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The revival of the Lodge by the local Freemasons was entirely due to the assistance rendered them by the Perfect Friendship Lodge, Ipswich and the Freemasons in Stowmarket today should be even mindful of the kind assistance given by Perfect Friendship in 1845.
The next meeting of Phœnix Lodge No.757 took place at the Fox Hotel, Stowmarket on 24th September 1845 and among those present were brethren from Perfect Friendship Lodge, some from Virtue and Silence, St. Lukes, British Union, Doric Lodge and others. Bro. G. Bullen D.P.G.M. of Suffolk being the Consecrating Officer.The Consecration took place at the Assembly Room adjoining the Corn Exchange, after which the Brethren proceeded in procession to the Parish Church where a sermon was preached by Rev. F.W. Freeman M.A. who was a member of the Lodge and who afterwards became the D.P.G.M. of Suffolk.
The Consecration took place in the usual form. W.Bro. F.W. Freeman, the W.M. appointed his officers and on the investing Bro. M. Leedes Fox his S.W., Bro. Fox then presented the W.M. with the gavel which is still in use today. From that day to the present time, meetings were held regularly and were well attended and the search through the subsequent minutes did not reveal many items of historical interest but the following may be referred to. At the meeting in October 1851 the Lodge congratulated Bro. K.D. Aldrich on his safe return from the Arctic Regions, Bro. Aldrich being then present as a member of the Lodge.
W.M. Chair
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Although there is no reference to the event in the minutes of Phœnix Lodge it has been a matter of tradition that at some time the Master Chair belonging to Phœnix Lodge passed into the possession of some other person and thence into the possession of Perfect Friendship. It would appear from the minutes of the Perfect Friendship dated 20th October 1858 that at the request of the D.P.G.M. of Suffolk ‘Perfect Friendship restore the Phœnix Lodge their chair and receive from the D.P.G.M. the chair which had been used for meetings at the Provincial Grand Lodge.’ Thus once again, Perfect Friendship came to the assistance of Phœnix Lodge.
In March 1859 Phœnix Lodge sent a petition to Grand Lodge for relief from the Fund of Benevolence for a Brother who had been a member of the old Phœnix Lodge and this appears to have been accepted. In June 1862 we have the first recorded visit of the Provincial Grand Master of Suffolk. Col. R.A. Shaftoe Adair, afterwards Lord Waveney who delivered an address to the Brethren. In October 1862 the minutes record the death of William Andrews who was for many years a member of the old Phœnix Lodge, and who held the office of Inner Guard in the present Phœnix Lodge continuously from 1845-1862, being apparently a permanent Inner Guard.
On 14th January 1876 there is a reference to a Bro. George Tydeman, Jeweller, which began a long association between the name of Tydeman and Phœnix Lodge, which was carried on by W.Bro. Percy Tydeman P.A.G.D.C. who in 1965 received the thanks of the Lodge on the completion of 17 years as D.C. He died in September 1969 but the tradition is ably carried on by our Grand Officer.V.W.Bro, the Reverend Canon Richard Tydeman M.A. Grand Chaplain, who on 21st April 1971 gave the Prestonian Lecture held under special dispensation at the Copdock Hotel, Ipswich, under the banner of Phœnix Lodge.The lecture was entitled ‘Masters and Master Masons’ - a theory of the third degree.
The next milestone in the history of the Lodge occurred on 13th April 1938 when ‘Bro.W.G. Pritchard proposed and Bro.A.E. Palmer seconded, that the Master and Wardens be authorised to sign the Certificate on the Petition for the foundation of a New Masonic Lodge to be held in Stowmarket, the Petition being now produced and read by the Secretary and signed by some of the Founders viz, W.M. W.Bro. Mark Harrison, S.W. Bro. F. Heal, J.W. Bro. F. Cartwright, Sec. W.Bro. J. Manning Prentice,W.Bro. F. M.Wilson, J.J.Wilson, S.C. Hounsfield, Bro.A.E. Palmer, N. Haywood Smith etc. The new Lodge was named Ala Lodge No.5043.
...The new Lodge was named Ala Lodge No.5043
Phœnix Lodge during the early part of the 20th century met regularly in St. Peters Church Hall in Church Walk, but there is an entry in the minutes as early as 11th October 1935 recording a proposition that more suitable premises should be found. During the war years, many dispensations were sought allowing the Lodge to meet in Temple Road, Oddfellows Hall, Congregational Church Schoolroom, County Secondary School etc. and in fact in 1919, three meetings were held on Saturday afternoons.
There is a very touching story attached to the meeting held at Temple Road on 9th December 1939. Bro. F.W.Whiting the S.W. was critically and terminally ill but such was his determination
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and desire to be the W.M. of Phœnix Lodge that the members applied for a dispensation to hold an Installation Meeting at his home in order to install him into the Chair of K.W. He was so ill that he was only able to invest his S.W. and J.W. - all the other investitutes being postponed until a future evening. At the very next meeting held on 12th January 1940 the acting W.M. had to report the sad loss the Lodge had sustained by the death of its W.M.
On the 9th March 1945, the W.M. again referred to the advisability of seeking a ‘home of our own’ but nothing more was done about this until a Permanent Committee Meeting held on 22nd October 1963 whenW.Bro.Aldis,W.Bro.L.Whitely and Bro.R.A.Bailey were asked to consider and report on the cost of alternative accommodation.At this period, the Annual Subscription was £2. and 16/6d for a country members. On the 7th September 1964 the Committee reported that ‘Beech House had bee secured privately by several brothers for £4,250, and was available to the Lodges at that price.
The Dispensation from Prov. G.L. permitting the Lodge to meet at the Masonic Hall,Violet Hill Road is dated 4th January 1965 and the 1st meeting was held their on 8th January 1965.The membership in 1965 was 113 in Phœnix and 65 in Ala Lodge.
We must now go back to 23rd September 1945 when the Centenary of Phœnix Lodge was held and a Service was held at Baylham Church after which the Congregation was entertained to tea in theVillage Hall by kind invitation of theW.M.Bro.W.H.Richards,ChurchWarden.
An extract from the minutes of 10th January 1947 records the next important event and is well worth recording here.W.Bro. J.J.Wilson P.A.G.SV.B. reported, that ‘The United Grand Lodge of England recognises 3 degrees in Freemasonry, the E.A. the F.C. and M.M. - the R.A. being the completion of the 3rd or M.M. degree and that is why G.L. permits the wearing of R.A. Jewels in our Craft Lodges, but not the jewel of any other degree.
...the R.A. being the completion of the 3rd or M.M. degree and that is why G.L. permits the wearing of R.A. Jewels in our Craft Lodges, but not the jewel of any other degree.
We, in Stowmarket, have not the facilities for completing the work we begin and some R.A. Masons consider that such facilities should be provided.
Every R.A. Chapter must be sponsored by a craft Lodge and it is quite Masonic that the Founders should approach this, the Senior Lodge in the town to be its Sponsor..
The Proposition was seconded by W.Bro. P.J.Tydeman and carried unanimously.The Chapter was duly formed and consecrated on 22nd September 1947, and is still flourishing with 59 members.
A regular feature of Lodge work during this period was that once a year both Lodges combined to present one of the Masonic Lectures, a custom which since 1974 when the last lecture was given, unfortunately seems to have lapsed.
The history of Phœnix Lodge would not be complete without mentioning our Lady Caterer, Mrs. Audrey Mascall, the wife of W.Bro. F. J. Mascall. In 1972 on the death of W.Bro. J.W. Dykes, Mrs. Mascall undertook to cater for Phœnix Lodge and Chapter until a successor could be found.
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Centenary Warrant
TO THE WORSHIPFUL MATER, WARDENS, OTHER OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF PHŒNIX LODGE, NO.516 AND ALL OTHERS WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
GREETING
WHEREAS it appears by the records of the Grand Lodge that on the 17th day of July 1845 Warrant of Constitution was granted to certain Brethren therein named authorising and empowering them and their regular successors to hold a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons at the Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Stowmarket in the County of Suffolk and which Lodge was named the Phœnix Lodge and then numbered 757 on the Register of the Grand Lodge of England.And whereas in consequence of the alteration made in the number of Lodges in the year 1863 the said Lodge became and now stands on the Register as No.516 meeting at the Fox Hotel, Stowmarket in the county of Suffolk under the title or denomination of
THE PHŒNIX LODGE
And whereas satisfactory proof has been provided of the uninterrupted existence of the said Lodge for ONE HUNDREDYEARS dating from the 24th Day of September 1845. And whereas the Brethren composing the said Lodge desire to be permitted to wear a Commemorative Jewel and have prayed our sanction for that purpose.
NOW KNOWYE thatWe having taken the Petition into our consideration have acceded to their request and in virtue of Our Prerogative DO HEREBY GIVE AND GRNT to all and each of th Subscribing Members of the said Lodge being Master Mason permission to wear in all our Masonic Meetings, suspended to the left breast by a Sky Blue Ribbon not exceeding one inch and half in breadth, a JEWEL OR MEDAL of the pattern or device that we have already approved as a CENTENARY JEWEL. But such jewel shall be worn only by those Brethren who are bona fide Subscribing Members of the said Lodge and for so long only as they pay the stipulated subscription to the funds thereof and be duly returned as such to the Grand Lodge of England.
GIVEN AT LONDON this 24th day of SEPTEMBER AL5945. AD1945
BY COMMAND OF THE MOST WORSHIPFUL MASTER.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF HAREWOOD K.G. ETC. ETC. ETC.
18
Now in 1981 she is still with us and the popularity and renown of Phœnix Festive Board is due in a great degree to her superb cooking.With the money she has raised from this and other charitable works, she has already bought and maintains one ambulance and is well on the way to buying another one for the Stowmarket Red Cross Disabled Club. Phœnix are proud to b associated with such a wonderful venture and such a hard working and charitable lady.
Phœnix Lodge is a Singing Lodge which is another reason why our Festive Board is so popular and interesting to our Visitors. Only a few old lodges are allowed to maintain the custom of singing at the Festive Board and it is a custom which we cherish as part of our Phœnix tradition although is is frowned upon by Grand and Provincial Grand Lodges.
On 24th November 1976 a special Dispensation from United Grand Lodge of England enabled W.Bro. B.G. Quinton to hold the office of W.M. of both Phœnix and Ala Lodges at the same time. A unique achievement which will surely not be equalled for many years.
I can think of no better way of to conclude a history of Phoenix Lodge No.516 than by quoting an extract from the Sermon preached at the Consecration and Constitution of the Phœnix Lodge No.757 in 1845 by the Rev. F.W. Freeman M.A. - Curate of Haughley, for it is the finest explanation of Freemasonry that I have ever heard.
TEXT
Let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them that are of the Household of the Faith. Galatian Chapter 6 vs 9-10
Union and harmony constitute the very essence of our order.We always meet upon the level and depart upon the square. No strife or animosity is ever permitted to approach the portals of a Masonic Lodge, for there within the Lodge, all must be Harmony and Peace. By Union we mean that we are bound together for the gratification of any sensual pleasure, nor mere wordly indulgence, nor any selfish motive nor for the encouragement of the corrupt principles of the heart, but for the purpose of inculcating upon all who are initiated into the sublime precepts of masonry, those pure principles of morality which must ever flow from a system based as is our ancient and hourable order upon the Volume of the Sacred Law.
By Harmony we would wish everyone to understand that we mean that our order is regulated by one unchanging system throughout every quarter of the glove being of one accord and actuated by one principle, we endeavour to carry out to the fullest possible extent that comprehensive and imperative command of our Saviour Christ, ‘Love thy neighbour as thyself.’
19
Interesting Facts
In 1865, 12 Book of Constitution cost £1.1.3. Brother Andrews widow was given 5/- per month. The Champagne for Bro. Skendons initiation cost 18/-
I should also like to be able to report that you could still go and have a pint in the three pubs in Westminster where our Lodge had its roots. Unfortunately this is not possible. Union Street and Crown Street,Westminster lie underneath the area which is occupied by the Foreign Office and Government Officers,Whitehall.
As you can see from the attached copy of an 18th Century Map of the area, Union Street and King Street are very close to Westminster Abbey, so our foundation was very close to the centre of our Capital City.
The Candle Holders which we use in the Temple were presented by W.Bro. F.W. Freeman the first W.M. 1845.
The gavels with the black hammers and the ivory handles which we still occasionally use were donated by Bro.W. Leedes Fox the first
S.W. in March 1972 a new set of
wooden gavels was made and kindly
presented to the Lodge by W.Bro. M.Howell of Ala Lodge.
The tripod on the S.W. Pedestal was presented by Bro. G.J.E. Browned in 1845.
On 14th March 1919 W.Bro. F.A. Badham presented a box containing a complete set of Working Tools as an expression of his gratitude to the G.A.O.T.U. in commemoration of the cessation of hostilities on 11th November 1918.
On 16th May 1919 Bro. Harry C. Simpson in a similar way presented the Lodge with the solid silver square and compasses for theVolume of the Sacred Writings, and also the Hymn and Music Books.
W.Bro. W.L. Youngman presented the Lodge with the two Deacons wands and stands.
20
Bro. R.C. Knight presented the Lodge with a Heavy Maul.
21
In May 1922 W.Bro. the Rev. H. Coppinger Hill donated a new copy of the V. of the S.L. which we still own but was replaced in October 1965 by the present large Bible presented by W.Bro. George Garrod.
On 12th January 1923,W.Bro. Bramhall presented a second Broken Column, while Bro. Commander J. Wykeham Hopkyns donated a Sacred Symbol.
A most unusual occurrence in Masonry, and as far as I can ascertain, a unique event in Phœnix Lodge occurred on 9th February 1923 when a Dispensation was obtained authorising the initiation of Mr. Com Christopher Hayward, although a minor. He was a University Student aged 18 years.
The Lodge presented a Bible to Stowupland Church on 13th December 1935 in memory of W.Bro. Bramhall who for 21 years had read the lessons in that Church.
22
Extracts from FreemasonsYear Book 1945-46
‘Reminding the gathering that the Prov. Grand Lodge was meeting that day under the banner of Phœnix Lodge 516, he desired to congratulate its members upon attaining their Centenary on the 24th August next, wishing them continued prosperity, and complimenting them upon the distinction of taking up the largest list of all the Suffolk Lodges at the R.M.B.I. Festival this year - a most commendable way of completing a century of Masonic usefulness.
As regards the Chairmans Province, the detailed announcements of which were each greeted with much applause, the highest individual result was shown to be that of the Phœnix Lodge No.516 of Stowmarket which raised a total of £1,606.’
On 11th April 1947.W.Bro. Hugh L. Robinson presented a very beautiful cushion for the Masters’ Pedestal.The cushion was made from the same velvet as was used in the Coronation Robes of King GeorgeVI.
The first Ladies Festival was held in 1949 during the Mastership of W.Bro. W. F. Murray and have been held annually ever since, almost without exception.
Phœnix Lodge has been the host to Prov. Grand Lodge 7 times since 1816 the last time in 1952. We are proud to have had 5 Grand Lodge Officers in the present century in our Lodge, in the persons of W.Bro. S.C. Hounsfield, J.J. Wilson, E.P. Simkin, P.J.Tydeman and R.T.Tydeman.
In 1945 the Minute Book records in detail a request from an American Lodge viz. Lamar Lodge No.90 of Colorado for Phœnix Lodge to assist a Corporal Samuel A. Felders of 708 Bomber Squadron to continue his masonic work whilst he was stationed here. He was passed and raised in May and June 1945 and the Minute Book includes all the correspondence together with the 2 halves of a letter of identification, one half sent to Phœnix from the U.G.L. England and the other half to be presented by Corp. S. Felders on his arrival in Stowmarket.
May 1974. Extract from minute of Permanent Committee Meeting - ‘Framed oil painting and grandfather’s clock to be valued and if sold, the proceeds to go to the Masonic Association Fund.’ Happily, this did not happen.
In memory of W.Bro. M.R. Catton
23
Masonic Lodge Furniture Compiled by Richard Rednall (c2000)
FRAMED OIL PAINTING
Fraternal Remembrance of Bro. Frederick William Freeman Clerk, M.A. First W.M. of Phoenix Lodge No.757 and D.P.G.M. of the Province of Suffolk. Who was summoned to the Grand Lodge above on 22nd March 5863 A.L.
WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION
Phoenix No. 757. 1845.
New Number issued: Phœnix No.516. 1863
FOUR SWORDS
Two engraved Phoenix No.757
W.MASTERS CHAIR
Returned to Lodge 1858.
SENIOR WARDENS CHAIR
(Approx same age)
JUNIOR WARDENS CHAIR
(Approx same age)
CANDLE HOLDERS
Presented by W.Bro. F.W. Freeman, the first W.M. in 1845.
THE TRIPOD
on the S.W. Pedestal. Presented by Bro. G. J. E. Browne in 1854.
THE GAVELS
with the black hammer and ivory handles. Donated by Bro.W. Leedes Fox, first S.W. in 1845.
BOX CONTAINING COMPLETE SET OF WORKING TOOLS
Presented by W.Bro. F. A. Badham in commemoration of the cessation of hostilities on 11th November, 1918.
SOLID SILVER SQUARE AND COMPASSES
For the volume of sacred writings. Presented in 1919 by Bro. Harry C. Simpson.
TWO DEACONS WANDS AND STANDS
Presented b y W.Bro.W. L.Youngman.
24
POIGNARD AND SCABBARD
Presented by W.Bro. F. Long. 1868.
V. OF S. L.
Donated in May 1922 by W.Bro. Rev. H. Coppinger Hill.
25
BROKEN COLUMN
Presented by W.Bro. A. G. Bramhall in January 1923.
SACRED SYMBOL
Donated by Bro. Commander J.Wykeham Hopkins in January 1923.
LONG CASE CLOCK
Masonic symbols on dial. Presented by W.Bro. W. H. Richards 1944.
V. OF S. L.
Donated by W.Bro. George Garrod in October 1965.
VELVET CUSHION
For Masters Pedestal. Made from same velvet as was used in the Coronation Robes of King George VI. Presented by W.Bro. H. L. Robinson on 11th April, 1947.
NEW BANNER PHOENIX 516
Made in silk and donated by W.Bro. Canon Richard Tydeman, M.A. O.S.M. P.J.G.W.(Eng).
WROUGHT IRON STAND FOR REGALIA
Presented by Bro. R. E. Rednall. 1994.
PHOENIX No.516 150th COMMEMORATION
WARDEN COLUMNS
Complete with Doric and Corinthian metal gilt tops and enamel globes. Presented by Ala Lodge No.5043.
WINE COASTER
Silver and gold 6” x 2”. Dated coin 1995. Presented by W.Bro. F. J. Mascall P.P.G.S. of W.
26
SALVER
Silver 18”. Donated by Mrs. L. B. Sweet. Engraved to W.Bro. S. G. Sweet. Chelmsford Lodge 276.
LECTERN AND PEDESTAL
Donated by W.Bro. S. D. Girling, P.A.G.D.C.(Eng) in 1998.
LIBRARY
Vol. 1, 2, 3 History of Freemasonry by R. F. Gould 1886. Presented to Ala Lodge No. 5043 by Bro. H.W. Pearce 1976.
Vol. 1, 2, 3 History of Freemasonry by R. F. Gould 1886. Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 History of Freemasonry by R. F. Gould. Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 History of Freemasonry by R. F. Gould. Twenty one vols. 196301985 Quatuor Coronati.
JEWELS
Sundrie in glass and wood case.
WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION
Ala Lodge No.5043, 31st May, 1928.
Bosmere Lodge No.9460, 23rd March 1992. Phoenix and Ala Chapter No.516, 7th May 1947.
COLLAR STAND
Crafted in wood and presented by W.Bro. A. M. Hart P.J.G.D. to Bosmere Lodge No.9460.
WOODEN BOX
Presented to Ala Lodge No.5043, by W.Bro. Capt. C.V. Groves, P.A.G.D.C. 1958
containing
GAVEL
Presented to Ala Lodge No.5043 by The Rt.Hon. the Earl of Stradbroke, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Provincial Grand Master, 1957.
NEW BANNER
Ala Lodge No.5043, made in silk and donated by W.Bro. Canon Richard Tydeman, M.A. O.S.M. P.J.G.W.(Eng).
27
PHŒNIX No.516
150th COMMEMORATION GOLD BADGE by John Mascall
28
PHŒNIX LODGE 516
OPENING HYMN
Hail, Eternal! by whose aid
All created things were made; Heaven and earth Thy vast design; Hear us, Architect Divine.
May our work, begun in Thee, Ever blest with order be;
And may we, when labours cease, Part in harmony and peace.
By Thy glorious Majesty,
By the trust we place in Thee, By the badge and mystic sign, Hear us, Architect Divine.
CLOSING HYMN
Now the evening shadows closing, Warn from toil to peaceful rest; Mystic art and rights reposing Sacred in each faithful breast.
God of Light! whose love unceasing, Doth to all Thy works extend: Crown our Order with Thy blessing; Build, sustain us to the end.
Humbly now we bow before Thee, Grateful for Thine aid Divine: Everlasting power and glory, Mighty Architect! be Thine.
FIRST DEGREE
Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom, Lead Thou me on;
The night is dark, and I am far from home; Lead Thou me on.
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene; one step enough for me.
PHŒNIX LODGE 516
AFTER CLOSING V.S.L.
Fidelity; Fidelity; Fidelity; And may God be with us all.
ON SALUTING V.S.L.
Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this law.
RESTORATION - To the Candidate
And God said: Let there be Light; And there was Light.
QUICK FIRE
Prosper the man
Join in the chorus
Prosper the lodge Prosper the art
ABSENT BRETHREN
Holy Father in Thy mercy,
Hear our anxious Prayer,
Keep our Brethren now far absent, ‘Neath Thy care.
When in sorrow, when in danger, When in loneliness,
In Thy love look down and comfort, Their distress.
Holy Father in Thy mercy, Hear our anxious Prayer, Bless them,
Save them,
Guide them, Keep them, Near to thee
STOWMARKET
UP THE
LLOYD’S CREEK
516
SHIRAZ CARBERNET
Named after Barry Dorothy Lloyd, Phœnix Lodge, Master 1998/99 A vintage year ensues
750ml
12.5%VOL
STOWMARKET
UP THE
LLOYD’S CREEK
516 CHARDONNAY
Named after Barry Dorothy Lloyd, Phœnix Lodge, Master 1998/99 A vintage year ensues
750ml
12.5%VOL
Wine Labels printed for the Installaion of W.Bro. Barry Lloyd
Suffolk Barge!
FESTIVAL 2009
How the 2009 Festival Jewel was designed
Suffolk Barge
P
NEW MASONIC SAMARITAN FUND
Orwell Bridge
P
Elements to the Jewel
NEW MASONIC SAMARITAN FUND
Other Ideas
SUFFOLK PROVINCE FES- TIVAL 2009
Visual of Jewel
Finished Jewel
SUFFOLK 2009
SUFFOLK 2009
PROVINCE OF
PROVINCE OF
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Extracts from Forum
FoRUM
THE NEWSLETTER FOR SUFFOLK FREEMASONS
PhŒnix Lodge no 516
Five members of Phoenix Lodge visited The Lodge of Saint Julian No 5107 at Innholders Hall London on 24th April to present a long overdue 50 year certificate to Bro Bill Cunnington. The presentation was made by W Bro Ken Roberts
Forum September, 2001
l to r W.Bro. Tony Green, W.Bro. Ken Robers, W.Bro. Mervyn Wake, Bro. Bill Cunnington, W.Bro. Peter Green, W.Bro. Trevor Scarff
in dUbLins FaiR City
Prince Masons Room, Dublin
Visit to dublin ala 5043 and Phœnix 516
At the invitation of Ruby Lodge 339, Dublin, five brethren of Ala and Phœnix Lodges accepted the invitation in September to visit namely W.Bro. A. Quinton, W.Bro. L. A. Green, W.Bro. I. Knights Bro. G. Black and Bro. C. Barber.
We were hosted by the Secretary of Ruby Lodge W.Bro. W. Acheson
who escorted us round Dublin show- ing us Prov. Grand Lodge in Molesworth St. Dublin including the museum, a bus tour of Dublin finish- ing up in the Guiness Brewing prem- ises sampling the nectar of Ireland.
The first evening we were invited to a Chapter meeting and the following evening to a Lodge meeting followed by a Festive Board during both evenings. I must point out that they do not have a Festive Board as we know but beer and sandwiches. As they
Presentation of Gavel to the Master of Ruby Lodge, Dublin by W.Bro. Alan Quinton at the Festive Board.
had guests from England they laid on a Festive Board and for the very first time invited Ladies for the evening. It was during the second evening that W.Bro. A. Quinton presented to W.Bro. James Horton an Inscribed Gavel on behalf of Ala and Phoenix Lodges.
I think I can say, without contradic- tion, everyone had an enjoyable visit and look forward to members of Ruby Lodge returning the visit next October for Ala’s 75th Anniversary meeting.
Forum February 2003 Forum May 2004
Provincial Grand Lodge Annual Meeting
The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook 16th April 2004
W.Bro Scarff
W.Bro. Ian Wilkinson
Forum May 2004
2009 Festival Jewel
Since our last Festival in the Province in 1996 we have had many new members and we asked our Provincial Charity Steward, WBro Richard Baker to explain how it all works, and to prepare us for the Festival in 2009.
The Festival system was devised during the war years of 1942, when there must have been a large number of disadvantaged wives, widows and children.
The overall concept being that Provinces throughout the Country take turns in having a Festival, the dates being announced several years
in advance. This allows a long-term fund raising effort to culminate in large sums of money being made available to the four main Masonic charities which are The Grand Charity, The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys and the New Masonic Samaritan Fund.
Each Festival concentrates it’s efforts on one of these Charities.
The Charity to receive the support of Suffolk in 2009 is the New Masonic Samaritan Fund.
Each lodge has a target of money to achieve and the Lodge Charity Steward co-ordinates all the arrangements. If you have any doubts or ques- tions your Charity Steward is there to provide the answers.
At the end of the Fund raising period, the Festival Celebrations will be held at a high capacity venue. This is really a very Grand meeting, when the mem-
bers of the Suffolk Lodges and
their Ladies gather to celebrate the achievement of what we trust will be in excess of our targets.
Grand Lodge are expected to be well represented together with the Management Team of the New Masonic Samaritan Fund.
I am very pleased to report that many lodges are at least halfway towards their target, and many ingenious and enjoyable events have been
held, with lots more planned.
The Gift Aid Scheme is the most efficient way of building your personal donation. At the end of 2003 over 1100 Brethren were taking advantage of this method of giving. Once a form is signed, your Charity Steward can claim your income tax back on that amount, provided of course, that
you are a tax payer.
In order that we can attain the best possible result with the least amount of pain, it is worthy of note that over the last five years £218000 has been donated to non-masonic charities. by Lodges in the Province Whilst there are some very worthy causes deserving our support, during the next few years we may be able to divert some or all of these donations towards our Festival targets.
In Suffolk we enjoy the company of many Brethren who are members or visitors to our Lodges from other Provinces. They too can con- tribute to our Festival. If their Lodge is making a donation to the NMSF it may be possible to per- suade them to nominate the Suffolk Festival Appeal 2009 for their donation. The Lodge con- cerned would get the prestige for raising the money and this would, of course, make them a Patron of our Festival.
Any member who has yet to contribute but intends to do so, please contact your Charity Steward as soon as possible and help us to achieve a Festival Result which will reflect the Province of Suffolk’s historical generosity and support for Masonic Charities.
It is customary to produce a jewel for the Brethren to wear in their Suffolk Lodges, and for our 2009 Festival we are extremely proud of the magnificent design and appearance of this dec- oration. The design which incorporates a Suffolk Barge sailing under the Orwell bridge, makes it unique to Suffolk and was developed from an idea by W.Bro Peter Green who worked with Bro Colin Barber to turn it into a workable design for engraving, the result is a very colourful and desirable jewel which will be fully appreciated when viewed in full colour.
A brother is entitled to purchase a jewel for £10 subject to him having contributed a mini- mum of £100 to the 2009 Festival Fund. A a permanent jewel it can be worn at all times in the province of Suffolk.
Ladies or other donors will be able to purchase a jewel provided they have also donated the qualifying amount.
The jewel is available now and obtainable through your lodge charity steward.
Forum review. WITHIN THE COMPASS A collection of Masonic writings by Richard Tydeman
This is a blue book with a difference, it is without doubt the most riveting Masonic read I’ve had in a long time, and certainly not as soporific as the other blue book..
I think every mason no matter how long your career in Freemasonry is will learn something from this excellent book.written in an easy style that keeps up your interest Richard Tydeman explains the reasons behind so many of our ancient customs, there is a lifetimes experience written down and captured for us ordinary masons to read
To get your copy for just £8 fill out the form below and enclose your cheque.
Forum December 2004
snaPshot FRoM hoLbRooK
New Pro. Grand Master talking to W.Bro. Richard Tydeman
Forum August 2005
Stowmarket 1st Responder Scheme Launch
Stowmarket Lodges Phoenix, Ala and Bosmere, presented a cheque for £1700 for the purchase of the 1st Responder Unit for Stowmarket and area.
W.Bro. Codge Barber, W.Bro. R. Mullins (Ala), Bro. R. Dor (Ala), W.Bro. Kass (Bosmere)
Forum Summer 2006
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