Oracle No. 28 December 2018

oracle
28
FORTY EIGHT
Story on pages 2 and 3
STOWMARKET MASONIC
Masonic Hall,Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket
HOURS ASSAULT ON THE SOMME
DECEMBER 2018 Issue No.
Thank you for all those who have kindly contributed to this edition.
We look forward to all those who use the facilities at Stowmarket and welcome contributions to Oracle for future issues.
Please feel free to submit any articles you may feel of importance for Oracle to
W.Bro. Codge [email protected], your secretary, or to the Stowmarket Masonic Association.
THIS PUBLICATION WOULD WELCOME ANY ARTICLES FROM OTHER DEGREES WHO USE THE FACILITIES AT STOWMARKET
Please also feel free to submit any events your lodge may have arranged i.e. Ladies Nights etc.


FORTY EIGHT HOURS ASSAULT ON THE SOMME
FIRST WAVE, DAY 1—6th October, 0430hrs:
Lead by BG C. Barber, partial squad collected at OLD NEWTON VILLAGE HALL. 0445hrs: remaining Suffolk members picked up at Stowmarket Railway Station. 0645hrs: Essex stragglers joined up at COLCHESTER. Full squad now onto France
via Channel Tunnel or chunnel; Calais, then Arras; ahead of schedule. 0850hrs. Smooth travel via chunnel.
1000hrs: LOOS. Three members of supplementary squad lead by SMA R. Florey
commemorating lost grandfather; body MIA; noted on the surrounding walls, in good company. Reconnaissance mission on an adjacent field performed by COL Roger Stearn and VAD Nurse C. Barber found evidence of shrapnel. Further investigation needed.
1105hrs: WELLINGTON QUARRY. Quality digging by New Zealand Mining Company; Kiwis connected successfully to medieval tunnels in situ through Arras. Wall drawings, directions, various notations proved British and dominions’ battalions positioned here for some time. Evidence found on makeshift chapel where Chaplain performed church service before big push. Squad remains in good spirits despite news of battered troops.
1400hrs: Check into BARRACKS at Holiday Inn Express. Evening left for squad to explore. God help the locals.
SECOND WAVE, DAY 2—7th October, 0900hrs:
Mustered squad after morning chow; NEWFOUNDLAND PARK scheduled before other battalions further afield arrive. Met with volunteer Canadian students on leave from University; informed squad of Canada’s role and her casualties; caribou statue erected for Canadian MIAs. Frontline too close for comfort; within metres of British and Newfoundland troops. Overloaded Allied nursing station positioned fourteen meters from action. Encompassing areas pocked by shell holes; clear evidence of intense battle. Surrounding fields still closed off; unexploded shells, a common occurrence through northern France.
1235hrs: ULSTER TOWER; squad explores first official memorial erected on the Western Front; commemorating men of Ulster. Casualties still being unearthed along with remnants of war machines; two soldiers found within last five years and interned. Surrounding areas containing unexploded bombs are out of bounds.
1407hrs: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL. Squad perform survey of largest Commonwealth war memorial in the world. Thousands of missing men and VADs among French; names engraved on sixteen walls.
1503hrs: LOCHNAGAR MINE CRATER; explosion at 0728hrs, two minutes before British barrage; excellent digging by the 179th Tunnelling Company Royal Engineers found a sweet spot underneath German strongpoint. They never saw it coming.
1645hrs: Squad progressed to ALBERT. Evidence of the British, French and German forces in the form of fragments and daily used implements discovered within the medieval/modern tunnels under the commune of Albert.
1800hrs: Squad returns to BARRACKS; respite in ARRAS before exploratory mission tomorrow. Squad tired, but alert. Extended partaking of regional comestibles (mostly liquid) explored around the Grand Place and further afield. Locals were not amused.
THIRD WAVE, DAY 3— 8th October, 1030hrs;
Squad left after extended R&R; decamped to VIMY RIDGE, Canada’s most important war memorial; location of German defeat by the Canadian Corps and the 51st Highland Division on Easter Monday. France acknowledged Canada for the sacrifices made by granting 107 hectares of land at Vimy for significant memorial.
1243hrs: Calais; investigation by squad of neighbouring supply station before entering chunnel to Blighty.
2030hrs: Arrival at OLD NEWTON VILLAGE HALL to bandstand and
celebratory parade.
Documented by Christina Barber




1918 STOWMARKET 2018 MASONS REMEMBER
The three Masters from Phoenix, Ala & Bosmere Lodges, and a contingent of brethren with ladies attended the Remembrance Service Parade at Stowmarket on Sunday 11th November. A very moving ceremony in the church and afterwards at the Memorial Gates where WBro Graham Fielding (master of Ala Lodge) laid the wreath.
We returned to the Masonic Hall, Stowmarket to have our Armistice Dinner. Forty two guests attended which was organised by WBro Colin (Codge) Barber. What a fabulous time we had, one of the best we have put on by the Events Committee. The dinner
was presided over by WBro David Card, with moving interpretations and stories of the Stowmarket men who fell fell during the war.
Approximately 150 poppies were distributed on the dining table with the names on each of those who fell during the Great War from Stowmarket.
Our thanks go to Chef Andy McGowan who provided the feast.


Did you know...
Did you know that the two
minutes silence and association to Armistice Day (or 11/11) Remembrance has
its
a South African origin?
Read on and learn a little why South Africans should stand proud of what they have given the world – and on Remembrance Sunday and on Armistice day in November - when the western world stands silent in remembrance for two minutes – take heart that this entire ceremony has South African roots.
At 05.30 in the morning of 11 November 1918 the Germans signed the Armistice Agreement in a remote railway siding in the heart of the forest of Compiègne. Soon wires were humming with the message : ‘Hostilities will cease at 11.00 today November 11th. Troops will stand fast on the line reached at that hour...’.Thus, at 11.00 on 11 November 1918 the guns on the Western Front in France and Flanders fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare, warfare that had witnessed the most horrific casualties. World War One (then known as the Great War) had ended.
everyone bowed their heads in silent prayer for those in the trenches in Flanders.
the daily remembrance as his son, Maj Nugent Fitzpatrick, battery commander of 71st Siege Battery, was killed on 14 December 1917 by a chance shell fired at long range. Sir Percy was understandably deeply affected by the loss of his favourite son and was also so moved by the dignity and effectiveness of the two minute pause in Cape Town that the date and time of the Armistice inspired him to an annual commemoration on an Imperial basis.
The time and date attained an important significance in the post war years and the moment that hostilities ceased became universally associated with the remembrance of those that died in that and subsequent wars and conflicts. The Two Minutes silence to remember all who paid the supreme sacrifice was a result of this expression... and it all began in Cape Town, South Africa.
Articles in the newspapers described how trams, taxis and private vehicles stopped, pedestrians came to a halt and most men bared their heads. People stopped what they were doing at their places of work and sat or stood silently. The result of the Mayor’s appeal exceeded all expectations. One journalist described a young woman dressed in black, who came to a halt on the pavement and furtively dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief. “One could not but wonder what personal interest she had in the act of remembrance”, he wrote.
Sir Fitzpatrick then wrote to King George and it was accepted and implemented by Royal decree. On 27 October 1919, a suggestion from Fitzpatrick for a moment of silence to be observed annually on 11 November, in honour of the dead of World War I, was forwarded to George V, then King of the United Kingdom, who on 7 November 1919, proclaimed "that at the hour when the Armistice came into force, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, there may be for the brief space of two minutes a complete suspension of all our normal activities ... so that in perfect stillness, the thoughts of everyone may be concentrated on reverent remembrance of the glorious dead." 11 November was the date in 1918 that the formal end of combat occurred to end WWI. Fitzpatrick was thanked for his suggestion of the two minute silence by Lord Stamfordham, the King’s Private Secretary who wrote:
When the first casualty lists recording the horrific loss of life in the Battles of the Somme were announced in Cape Town, Mr JA Eagar, a Cape Town businessman, suggested that the congregation of the church he attended observe a special silent pause to remember those in the South African casualty list. It was the church also attended by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick. In May 1918, the Mayor of Cape Town, Councillor H Hands (later Sir Harry Hands) at the suggestion made by Mr. RR Brydon, a city councillor, in a letter to the Cape Times initiated a period of silence to remember the events unfolding on the battlefields of Europe and the sacrifices being made there. Mr Brydon’s son, Maj Walter Brydon, three times wounded and once gassed, was killed on 12 April 1918.
A few days later Sir Harry, whose son, Capt Richard Hands, a member of ‘Brydon’s Battery’, had been mortally wounded in the same battle in which Maj Brydon had been killed, decided to shorten the duration of the pause to two minutes, “in order to better retain its hold on the people”.
The pause would follow the firing of the Noon Gun, the most audible signal with which to co-ordinate the event across the city of Cape Town. The boom of the gun for the midday pause of three minutes for the first time on 14 May 1918 became the signal for all activity in the Mother City to come to a halt. Everything came to a dead stop while
The midday pause continued daily in Cape Town and was last observed on 17 January 1919, but was revived in Cape Town during the Second World War. It had, however, become a pause throughout the British Commonwealth from 11 November 1919.
The King, who learns that you are shortly to leave for South Africa, desires me to assure you that he ever gratefully remembers that the idea of the Two Minute Pause on Armistice Day was due to your initiation, a suggestion readily adopted and carried out with heartfelt sympathy throughout the Empire.
As soon as the city fell silent, a trumpeter on the balcony of the Fletcher and Cartwright's Building on the corner of Adderley and Darling Streets sounded the Last Post, the melancholy strains of which reverberated through the city. Reveille was played at the end of the midday pause.
In terms of the meaning of “two minutes” it was also argued that the first minute is for thanksgiving for those that survived and the second is to remember the fallen.
Dear Sir Percy,
Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, author of the book Jock of the Bushveld, had been impressed by the period of silence kept in his local church after the horrific loss of life at Delville Wood became known and the casualty lists had been read out. He had a personal interest in
Signed Stamfordham
Story for the South African Legion by Peter Dickens
Article supplied from W.B.Dudley


The Travelling Gavel is still missing
A Scorching Ceremony at Chapter
Unfortunately one of Phoenix Lodge’s Gavels has travelled It was presented to Phoenix Lodge 757 on 24th September 1845. If anyone knows of its whereabouts, please contact Phoenix Lodge Secretary.
A party from Phoenix and Ala Chapter visited Henniker Royal Arch Chapter on a really hot evening in July. The companions were allowed a slight change of dress code, by
permission from the Grand Superintendent. A prize to the person who can spot it.
A great ceremony under the charge of Excellent Companion Peter Wood and his team. Roger Florey
Fraternal greetings to our PGM
Phoenix Lodge 516 was honoured with the company of the Provincial Grand Master Ian Yeldham along with the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies David Barker accompanied with five Provincial Offficers from the Province at their October meeting, an Initiation for Bro. Nico.
Phoenix Lodge was delighted to present the Provincial Grand Master with a cheque towards RMBI Festival 2019 during the ceremony for £7,500.
We then retired to the festive board and entertained the Provincial Grand Master along with visitors.


Cheers to our Founding Fathers
Due to unforeseen circumstances Ala Lodge was not able to hold its usual Installation ceremony in March. By very good fortune, the Prov. Grand Master granted a dispensation, allowing us to hold an additional meeting during September, coinciding almost to the day 90 years ago, when the Lodge was consecrated.
Lodge and Senior Warden.
During the festive board, our WM. Graham Fielding introduced a reminiscence of the Consecration and an introduction of our Founding Fathers.“Brethren 90 years ago this month, after much planning, 12 Brothers, all members of Phoenix Lodge No. 516, together with 64 dignitaries and visitors assembled at St. Peters Hall, Stowmarket, to witness the Consecration of Ala Lodge. The ceremony was conducted by WB. Brig. Gen. S.E. Massy Lodge, CBE., PGD., Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Suffolk.Ably assisted by 7 Prov. Officers, the Installing Master being WB. G.T.Williment PPSW.” An introduction of our Founders followed. WB. Paul Wright, father of the Lodge, spoke about WB. S.C. Hounsfield PPGW, a Doctor and Surgeon. He lived in Temple Road, Stowmarket. A member of Phoenix Lodge and Suffolk Installed Masters Lodge No. 3913. He is listed as practicing as Hounsfield, Hill and Gaskell at the Beeches, Marriotts Lane, Stowmarket. His duties also included acting as Medical Officer of Health to Stowmarket Urban District Council, Thedwastre Rural District Council and the 12 bed Scarlet Fever Hospital, built in 1896 as an annex to the Stowlodge Workhouse. The Hospital buildings and mortuary were demolished in 1970 to make way for the diversion of the A14 to by-pass Stowmarket.WB. Hounsfield acted as the first IPM of Ala without attaining the rank of WM of this lodge.
Next our Junior Warden, Bro. Bob WhissonpresentedashortprofileofBro.L.T. Tibbenham, recorded as an Iron Founder, and residing at The Limes, Stowmarket, details of which will be very familiar to Stowmarket residents of a certain age. Bro. Tibbenham was also a member of Phoenix Lodge and was appointed as our first Junior Warden.
The Lodge Treasurer WB. Graham Mason gave an insight into Bro. M. J. Reed, a Manager with Barclays Bank, Bank House, Market Place, Stowmarket. Presumably living in a flat over the vault. Bro. Reed was also a member of Phoenix Lodge and was the first in a long line of shrewd money men as Treasurer.
WM. Graham Fielding introduced WB. H.L. Gornall, a schoolmaster, residing at the School House, Old Newton, Nr Stowmarket. As well as a member of Phoenix Lodge, he was also a member of Pleidis Lodge No. 716. WB. Gornall was installed as our first WM. on 28th September 1928.
We next heard from our Chaplin, WB. Robert Crozier, with the history of Bro. F. L. E. L’Estrange Fawcett, who is recorded, in the members’ register, as a Radio Engineer living in Bury St. Edmunds.You may form your own theory why no address is recorded. Bro L’Estrange Fawcett was a member of
The WM. thanked all the Brethren who had taken part in making it a very interesting presentation and reminded us that we owe a great deal to our Founders and it is up to all the members to maintain the fine traditions and high standard of work of Ala Lodge.We must also remember that this Lodge is part of a trinity of Craft Lodges that meet here and our strength is in that unity and support. Finally a big thank you to Bro. Mike Hart, for the considerable diligence and tenacity in putting this presentation together.
Bro. Brad Fuller our present Senior Warden, introduced Bro. J.W.Hopkyns, listed as Engineering Commander R.N. At the time he was living in Combs Village near. Stowmarket. He was a member of Phoenix
Mike Hart.Assistant Secretary.
was appointed our first
Grenadiers Lodge No.66 and was appointed our first Chaplin. In the early 1930`s he served as a councillor on the Stowmarket Urban District Council.
The Lodge Secretary, Bro Jack Sile, went on to enlighten us about WB. F.M. Wilson, a Pharmacist, living in Ipswich St., Stowmarket. He was a member of Phoenix lodge and also Suffolk Installed Masters Lodge No. 3913. WB. Wilson was installed as the first Secretary, a position he held until his untimely death in February 1933. An interesting note in the Minutes of the meeting of May 1930, records his appreciation of the presentation made by the Lodge on the occasion of his marriage.
Bro. Alan Robinson, Inner Guard, gave a brief history of Bro. E. R.Atkinson, recorded as a manager of the Brushworks at Woolpit, near. Stowmarket. We have to assume he lived on site as no other address is listed for him. He was a member of Phoenix Lodge and was appointed first Inner Guard.
Then WB. David Edgley, Director of Ceremonies, took to the floor to tell us of WB. J.J.Wilson, a retired Schoolmaster, residing at Poplar Ave., Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk. As well as a member of Phoenix Lodge, he was also a member of Royal Clarence Lodge No. 1823. WB. Wilson was appointed the first Director of Ceremonies. He also stood in as Secretary, in the absence of WB. F.M.Wilson.
WB. Peter Turner introduced Bro. N. Haywood Smith, a Solicitor, residing at Woodfield, Stowmarket. Also a member of Phoenix Lodge and appointed as Ala’s first Steward.
Our Senior Deacon, Bro. Keith Cadby followed this with a short profile of Bro. A.E.Palmer, another retired Schoolmaster, living in Temple Road, Stowmarket. A member of Phoenix Lodge, he was appointed the first Senior Deacon of Ala.
Bro. M. Hart explained that September Installations in Ala were maintained until 1931 when unfortunately the Master Elect, Bro. A. E. Palmer, died during the summer recess.
Standing in for the Junior Deacon, WB. Joe Naughton introduced Bro. G. Storey, a retired Institution Master, residing at Wellesley Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. A popular mason, being a member of Phoenix Lodge, Royal Clarence No 823 in Clare and South Saxon Lodge No. 311. Bro Storey was appointed Junior Deacon.
The Lodge By-Laws were then changed and the then reigning Master J. W. Hopkyns continued in the chair of King Solomon until 1932 , when Bro. L’Estrange Fawcett was installed in his stead on 18th March.
It was then the turn of WB. Richard Page, ActingTylerforthenight,totellusaboutBro. B. Farrow, a member of Phoenix Lodge who never joined Ala Lodge, but provided us with excellent service as our first Tyler. Serving from 26th September 1928 until April 1940, an uninterrupted total of 65 meetings.


Fun in
the
Park
Is this what members (plus two new members) of Phoenix Lodge get up to on the “Provincial Fun Day”
Dispensation and a Double First for Phœnix Lodge 516
An excellent double first at Phoenix Lodge No 516 in September. A dispensation to hold an extraordinary meeting to initiate Bro’s Ronold and Teddy (centre) into Phoenix Lodge. It was my honour to present them with the distinguishing badge of a Mason. By their demeanor this evening they are going to be a great asset to Phoenix Lodge. Welcome Bro's. Photo show them with their proposers and seconders, Bro's Raul and Arnel.
RF
Ala Lodge made a contribution to this appeal, and as a result Kerri and I were invited to attend a pre-opening tour of the new cardiac unit and especially the diagnostic unit which our contribution had gone towards.
The cost of the entire build was £5.2m and the five bed diagnostic unit of five beds £0.5m.
It was recently opened and is very impressive, with state of the art diagnostics and angiogram equipment.
Regards. - Graham, WM Ala


Ala Ladies Festival
On 20th October 2018 there was a gathering at the Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe.
WM Graham Fielding and Lady of The Evening, Mrs Kerri Fielding were delighted to host an evening for nearly 100 Brethren partners and guests.
The MC WBro Mike Richards orchestrated the evening which included a beautiful rendition of the Ladies Song from the golden voice box, who is non other than WBro John Kirk.
Games were played to raise money for the evening’s charity, which was the ATC 1331sq Stowmarket.
From subsequent feedback, the evening was a success with a very special bottle of whisky, and a 50" TV, both being appreciatively won.
Bro Keith Cadby suitably framed the character of the main lady in his speech.
The evening concluded by bopping the night away through the ages accompanied very ably by SIRENS, who were spot on with their two and a half hours on stage.
Unfortunately they invited the wrong people on stage, who neither had rhythm or vocal talent, did they WBro Card! (Lady of the Evening being the exception).
All in all, a great evening and Graham and Kerri would very much like to thank WBro Graham Mason and Sue Mason for their much appreciated help in arranging and staging this event.


INVITATION
Red Table Event
Hosted under the Banner of
Phoenix and Ala Chapter 516
Monday 4th February 2019 • Masonic Hall, Stowmarket 6.00pm
OPEN TO ALL MASONS
As we are aware, the Holy Royal Arch Order is acknowledged as the fourth step in Pure Antient Craft Masonry. To help encourage our brethren who have not yet taken this fourth step to find out more about this important Masonic Order, a special informal meeting is arranged on Monday 4th February 2018 starting at 6.00pm at The Masonic Hall, Stowmarket, Suffolk. This meeting has the support of our Provincial Grand Master and M.E. Grand Superintendent. They both encourage interested brethren to attend.
Masonry and where it fits into Craft Masonry.
be a festive board at which those non- companions will be the guests of the HRA Chapters supporting this initiative. Companions will pay for their meals. This invitation is open to any brother including Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts and Master Masons who are interested in increasing their Masonic knowledge irrespective of where their lodge meets. I would therefore encourage you to disseminate this invitation as wide as possible. It is not necessary for the brother or brethren to be accompanied by any potential sponsor, although this would be preferred.
This meeting will be a ‘red table’ event at which brethren will be supported by Holy Royal Arch companions to come and learn about Holy Royal Arch
Brethren will be invited into a HRA Chapter setting to listen to a short presentation on the Order, followed by a question/answer session. The only qualification needed is that brethren are Master Masons. The meeting will be held under the banner of The Phoenix and Ala Chapter 516, so please contact E.Comp. Colin Barber to reserve your place at this informative meeting. We hope that all Chapters who use the Masonic Hall will support this initiative. Please include name, lodge name and number for those brethren who will be attending. Dress code is smart casual.
Yours sincerely & fraternally, E.Comp. Codge P.P.GStd.B. Email: [email protected]
or Tel 01449 675548
After the presentation, there will
COMPLETE YOUR JOURNEY IN PURE ANCIENT FREEMASONRY
1 ENTERED APPRENTICE 2 FELLOWCRAFT 3 MASTER MASON
4
For more details contact the Lodge representatives [email protected]
or [email protected]
ROYAL ARCH COMPANION
OPEN TO
ALL CRAFT MASONS FROM ANY LODGE IN THE PROVINCE


Spotlight - Gary Riches Phoenix Lodge 516
Gary was born in Australia in November 1966 where his parents emigrated in 1965 as £10 Poms. They returned with their son Gary in 1967.
A £10 Pom
He’s entitled to dual passport but classes himself as English.
Married to Sarah for 20 years they have two children Jacob 19, and Madeline 16.
Jacob is studying at Colchester institute for Front of House and works at the Northgate Hotel in Bury St. Edmunds. If you want a good cocktail, he can help you.
Maddie is doing A Levels at County Upper where she hopes to further her education and go on to study Digital Marketng
at University.
Gary joined the
Army straight from school at the age of 16 and went into the Royal Corps of Transport. His career path has stayed with him in the transport sector but more on Sales and Management.
Six years ago he was fortunate enough to acquire a Driverhire Franchise in Colchester which is a recruitment business specialising in driving. He also owns a transporttrainingcompanyinStowmarket.
He is a Season Ticket Holder at Norwich City Football Club and enjoys the company of his son at home matches and attending away games when possible.
Gary likes to keep fit and is a keen cyclist when he finds the time. As a family they also have two dogs and love getting away when possible in their
caravan.


PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF SUFFOLK
The next regular step for the Master Mason
After the Third Degree
Supreme Grand Chapter administers the Royal Arch, and its principal officials are always the same as those of the United Grand Lodge of England. Within Suffolk, we are led by a Grand Superintendent, a Deputy Grand Superintendent and a Second and Third Provincial Grand Principal. Their details can be found in the Provincial Year Book. Each year we have an Annual Convocation, much as the Craft has its Provincial Grand Lodge.
Having been Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, you are now eligible to be Exalted to the Supreme Degree of the Holy Royal Arch, often known as Chapter. A Royal Arch Chapter is a Masonic body attached to, but organised separately from, a Craft Lodge.
The Supreme Degree of the Holy Royal Arch is correctly described as both the foundation and the keystone of the whole Masonic structure.
Between a third and a half of craft masons tend to join Chapter, normally the keener members. They are easy to spot in the Lodge, as companions proudly wear their Royal Arch Jewels. White for a companion, red for a principal or past principal and tri-coloured for a Provincial Grand Officer.
In Craft Masonry, a brother acknowledges a belief in The Supreme Being, yet this relationship is
never explored. In the Royal Arch, the
mason continues and completes his
The Essence of Freemasonry
education and knowledge of Craft Masonry and is invited to consider his relationship and dependence on God.
It is, therefore, justly claimed to be the climax of Pure and Ancient Freemasonry, and no brother can consider his Masonic knowledge complete until he has joined this Supreme Order.
In Craft Masonry we learn that we should endeavour to “please each other and to unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.” We also learn that Freemasonry is a system of morality, founded on a belief in God and promoting Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. The Royal Arch continues and develops this theme and enables us to reach a deeper and more rewarding understanding of all that has gone before.
A Royal Arch Chapter
The Masonic story cannot end with the Third Degree. Make up your mind to enjoy your Royal Arch Masonry as you do your Craft Masonry and you will come to understand why the Royal Arch is considered, The Essence of Freemasonry.
Chapters usually hold three meetings each year known as Convocations. The joining and annual fees are considerably less than those of a Lodge. Due to its close affinity with the Craft, the Royal Arch does not hold its own Charity Festivals and therefore restricts its charitable giving to Alms Collections.
Which Chapter and how to Join?
A Chapter is similar to a Lodge in that there is a progression of officers towards the position of the Three Principals who govern the Chapter. A Past Master of a Lodge normally holds the office of a Principal.
There are thirty Chapters in Suffolk, each one conjoined with a Lodge. Some brethren like to join a Chapter where they are well known whilst others prefer to join at a different centre altogether. Whichever you choose, you will make new friends as usually more than one Lodge supports each Chapter.
There should be no pressure for a member to progress through these offices unless he wishes it. Most new companions are happy to attend, learn more about freemasonry and cultivate new friendships until after they have passed the Master’s Chair but some are keen to take part in the ceremonies sooner, and enjoy doing so. It is up to you. Being a member is the important thing.
Your friend here is the Provincial Year Book. Each Chapter lists its officers and gives contact details for the Scribe E. who is the Chapter equivalent of a craft secretary. He will be delighted to receive your call. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact the Provincial Grand Scribe E., whose details are also shown in the Year Book. He will be happy to discuss
anything to do with the Order. Royal Arch details
are found on the pages following the Craft details.
Structure and Administration
The Supreme Degree of the Holy Royal Arch is the only order officially recognised by Grand Lodge. This should in no way put you off from joining one of the other wonderful orders of freemasonry, but if you only join one - it should be this one.
You will find the companions to be a very friendly and welcoming group of people.
PRODUCED BY THE ROYAL ARCH PROVINCE OF


Phillips, empty chair Gary Riches.
W.Bro Glyn Harvey SLGR Master 2018-2019
Telephone: 01227 369611 Apartment 267 Miramar Mobile: 07887 531096 165 Reculver Road
Left to Right Jimmy Jewell, Bob Goodall, Roger Florey, Bob Stopp, Codge, Freddy Davies, John Pursglove, Barry
Email: [email protected] Herne Bay
ApartyfromPhoenixLodge516 had getoutofhisbedandleftthehotelgonesix.
the privilege of being invited to attend (He must have had a great hangover.) We
Chelsea Lodge at Gt. Queens Street, were all very impressed and remembered
Dear Sir and Brother,
London on Friday 16th November. him with a beer or two.
The day started off well with Les King Off to Chelsea Lodge, which should have
Members are requested and guests cordially invited to attend the duties
not being able to get his train ticket from the been a raising for Ian Lavender.
of this Lodge at Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London WC2B
machine on the Station and was advised to Unfortunately Ian had been taken seriously
5AZ, on Friday 16th November 2018 at 2.30pm precisely. Please be
gsoetaotethde ilnoctahl sewTeetmshpolpe abnyd2g.e1t5ipt t.hmer.e. ill with sepsis. Our prayers go with him and
Later we boarded the train where our his family, (this is something which I was made By Command of the Worshipful Master,
Secretary was unable to produce his Citizen aware of a few months ago having been rushed into
very hospital suffering the same see awareness on page 15). uWnd.eBrrstoa.nMdinicghaenldHfianrerdidJinimemPyA, GwDhicCh The ceremony was a double 3rd Degree
Rail Card. The conductor was
Yours faithfully & fraternally,
Jimmy seemed very excited about by his delivered from an excellent team. glowingredfaceandwordsofwisdomhe We then retired to the Connaught
muttered about the conductor. Rooms for the festive board. The visitors
Dark suit, black shoes, Masonic tie, white collar, white gloves.
Arriving in London we visited the Craft speech was given by Freddy Davies, and
Beer Company where we were meant to then we were entertained by a cabaret with
meet two of our members. Gary had RogerdeCourseygivingtheaddress.
Metropolitan Grand Masters’ award for outstanding achievement for the
decided not to take our advice and travelled Having a small amount of cash left in the
MMC Holders of the Metropolitan Grand Lodge Silver Trowel Award
up the day before, and was unable to attend
kitty, we made our way back to Liverpool
due to illness. He had a work’s meeting the day before, and decided not to go to bed until the early hours of the following day. We later had a text saying he managed to
Street Station, and had our last nightcap at ’Spoons, arriving home gone Midnight.
for the London Appeal in support of the RMBI
PATRON
ROYAL MASONIC TRUST FOR GIRLS AND BOYS
GRAND PATRON
ROYAL MASONIC BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION THE MASONIC SAMARITAN FUND
THE GRAND CHARITY
Thank you for all those who helped organised this event where we have an invite to visit again next year.
Kent CT6 6PX


Phoenix Annual Christmas Party, was once again held at Stowmarket Golf Club. After a lot of hard work in the preparation, 79 guests had a great evening dancing and laughing the night away, The food was excellent, followed by party and singing games. Then dancing and frivolity to a Ceilidh band which had to be seen to be believed. Thank goodness for alcohol. What a brilliant Night.
Annual Christmas Party
In Memoriam W.Bro Albert Botright
Phoenix Lodge
_____
Called to the Grand Lodge Above
13 November 2018 _____
Who Lived Respected and Died Regretted
Ala Remembers
18th MAY · BELSTEAD BROOK HOTEL · IPSWICH
PHOENIX LODGE LADIES NIGHT 2019
TICKETS £42 inc pre dinner drink
DANCING TO 23X · ROOMS £80 inc. breakfast
PLEASE MAKE BOOKINGS THROUGH W.BRO. PETER GREEN inc. hotel
Dear Brethren,
We have our SEPSIS TALK at St Endred, Newmarket on 6th February 2019 - I’m aware that it is quite a distance for some of the Brethren, however you and your lodge members are more than welcome to attend. This is the third healthy talks we have done and they are always well attended.
The last two being Prostate Cancer Awareness and Cardiac Talk. As discussed, Codge will be attending as a surviver of Sepsis. We have a raffle with the chosen charity, Intensive Care Unit at Addenbrookes.
There have been around 80+ attendees to these talks previously but as we are just launching it I would like to invite Brethren from Phoenix Lodge, so you can book in before we have reached capacity.
The intention is for more awarenesss to maybe save a life or improve response to a life-threatening event. With a fish ‘n’ chip supper.
Regards - Bro Paul Pearson.
Brethren, there are two empty chairs representing the lives of Maj. John Anderson Brown and his younger brother, Capt. Noel Anderson Brown. During a continuous and vicious defence to secure the Singapore Town’s water supply from the Japanese, located in the centre of the island dominated by jungle and thought to be impenetrable, both men lost their lives within days of each other; Noel on 13th February and John on 15 February 1942, hours before British troops issued a cease fire at 11.00hrs.
I would like to record my thanks the Archivist, Suffolk Regiment Museum, the recorders at Suffolk Records Office, Bury St. Eds., Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades and the brethren who have provided standards, ensigns and flags. Thanks also to WB David Card for his valuable assistance in arranging the display.
M. Hart


To E. Companion C. Barber,
Scribe E.
LETTERS...LETTERS...
PHOENIX & ALA
CHAPTER No 516
Dear Companion “Codge”,
Would you please pass on
my sincere thanks to the
three Principals and
Companions’ of Phoenix &
Ala Chapter for their kind
and friendly welcome at
the Installation
Convocation?
I did enjoy the
ceremony, and everyone
worked hard to make the
evening a success. On
behalf of the Province I
would also like to thank
E. Companion Bob Whisson
for his years of service
to the Chapter as Scribe
Ezra. I suspect that he
won’t have a very long
“retirement” having been
appointed to Scribe N.,
indeed I hope that the
three Principals and those
appointed to Office have a
successful and enjoyable
year ahead.
Your contributions to
Charity were most generous
too. I know that the MEG’s
will appreciate the
support shown to the
Macmillan Coffee morning.
The festive board was a
most enjoyable affair and
from the level of noise,
everyone was having a
great time.
May I conclude in
thanking the Chapter for
the courtesy extended to
me during the convocation
and for the most generous
hospitality I received at
the festive board?
I wish you all well.
Yours sincerely and
fraternally,
E.Comp. R. Robertson
Please thank the brethren
of Phoenix Lodge for the
lovely bouquet received on
my birthday, they are now
in a shady spot in my
fireplace looking very
good. Hope you are
enjoying all this hot
weather, lovely if you can
sit and do nothing!!
Again many thanks and best wishes,
Pauline Squirrell
A big thank you to all those contributors, please keep sending articles events etc. to [email protected]
Dear Bro Secretary,
I remain very impressed to have witnessed almost 80% of
your membership along with their guests at your last
meeting. That was followed by watching so many of them
perform their duties in the lodge so skilfully and with
great aplomb and to see your Worshipful Master guided by
your DC, in giving everyone of them such a
great opportunity.
The ceremony was wrapped up with an exquisite charge to
Bro. Rico, followed by a significant number of candidates
and brethren, wishing to join you all.
Your attention to the Festival is overwhelming and I
cannot thank you enough for that, nor could I not mention
the most delightful festive board.
Every word that said then, I would like to re-iterate
and would you please thank all your brethren for their
very warm welcome and generosity to me, the Province and
Freemasonry.
I wish you all continued success and I look forward to
seeing many of you in February.
Kindest regards - Ian Yeldham