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Durham Chapter Convocation 2023 | Durham Freemasons

Saturday 20th May 2023 saw The Annual Convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Durham, with the Fed in Dunston being the venue. The various car parks quickly filled as the Stewards displayed their usual immaculate organising skills to make sure all went with precision so that the Companions could enter the venue and robe in the crimson, purple and blue of the Royal Arch.

This is the premier event in the Royal Arch Masonic calendar, and it provides an opportunity for companions from Masonic Halls throughout the province, along with distinguished guests to renew old friendships, meet future friends and of course, support the many Companions being either appointed or Promoted in Provincial Grand Chapter.

The Chapter room looked magnificent, and many thanks go to all those responsible for the setting up which had been ongoing from Friday evening. The sound of the Provincial Grand Organ so eloquently played by Richard Scothan, as the Companions stood to order to receive the Grand Superintendent and his Co-Principals added to the occasion.

With Provincial Grand Chapter opened in due form, apologies and minutes of the previous Convocation confirmed it was time for all present to remember the 41 companions we lost since our last meeting in July 2022.

After the Roll Call of Acting Provincial Grand Chapter Officers and Chapters, the Grand Superintendent welcomed the Companions, his Distinguished Guests, and Heads of Other Orders.

With the Provincial Grand Treasurer’s Statement of Accounts considered and accepted by the Companions present and the Treasurer re-elected for another 12 months along with the official Auditors, it was time to perform the most important and pleasurable part of the day, to appoint, invest and promote those companions’ receiving honours.

To see the full list of Appointments and Promotions Click Here.

With the Companions newly invested, safely back in their seats and the escorting carrousel of Director of Ceremonies retired back to their positions within Provincial Grand Chapter the Grand Superintendent, John Paul Thompson addressed Provincial Grand Chapter.

In his address John paid tribute to the companions he had the privilege to invest as well as to those retiring acting officers for the support they gave to the province and to Michael Shaw the Deputy.

Those who had been appointed to or promoted in Grand Rank at the April meeting of the Supreme Grand Chapter were introduced and applauded with acclamation.

John also thanked the many Companions present for their support in such high numbers, a testament to their commitment to Royal Arch Masonry, the first on a Saturday, as opposed to the usual mid-week meetings of the Chapter.

Moving onto the subject of membership he expounded on the need to make our ceremonies enjoyable and engaging, allowing Companions not only to perform the ritual to a high standard but also to understand their journey.

In his address, John said I hope you have noticed today companions that our Chapter furniture is looking quite pristine today. For many years we have kindly borrowed these items from Castle Eden, Sunderland, and Durham Chapters. Recently Londonderry Chapter of Amity and Rowlands Gill Lodge closed, and have kindly donated various ‘key’ items for our Provincial ceremonials including these magnificent thrones and many other items related to the Chapter.

To read the Grand Superintendent’s Address in Full Click Here.

A collection was then taken in Aid of Durham Benevolence  raising over £2,000.00   and with the companions having the opportunity of donating electronically by scanning a QR code on the back of the order of proceedings all donations made this weekend will be credited to the chapter collection.

Quick link to the donation page here

After the Provincial Grand Scribe Ezra informed the Convocation that there was no other business Provincial Grand Chapter was then closed in due form the Grand Organ along with the Companions raised the roof with two verses of the National Anthem.

Remember companions, we are stronger together.

#Freemasons  #oneorganisation

Gallery of photos in Flickr now by clicking here

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Richard Appointment To The Grand Masters Council.  | Durham Freemasons

Yesterday, at the Great Priory of Knights Templar Annual Meeting in Queen Street, London, the Provincial Prior for Durham, Right Eminent Knight, Richard George Scott was appointed to the Grand Masters Council, by the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master, Paul Raymond Clement.   

Richard will take an active role in the running of the Order as a member of the Council and will ensure the ‘Voice’ of the North is heard and involve all aspects of the running of the Companion Orders administered by Mark Masons Hall with an initial focus on Knights Templar Management and retrieval of membership.  

The Appointment does not affect Richard’s position as Provincial Prior, and he will continue to serve the Province of Durham.  

Richard said:  “ I am thrilled to be appointed to the Grand Masters Council and hope to be a voice for Durham Freemasonry. It is important that the Companion Orders work with the Craft and Royal Arch during these times of social change, and I hope to be able to contribute towards an enhanced Masonic membership for us all”

John Thompson said: “Wonderful recognition for Richard in achieving this national role helping to shape the KT Order going forward “

Congratulations Richard from all at Durham Freemasons.  

Stronger Together   

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A Grand Occasion | Durham Freemasons

The 26 th  and 27 th April 2023 saw freemasons from all over the world flock to the spiritual home of Freemasonry, Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden, London to witness the Annual Investitures of the Craft and Chapter, respectively.

A large presence of Durham brethren had headed south to support friends and colleagues receiving Grand Rank first appointments or promotions from the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, HRH The Duke of Kent.

We congratulate them on their preferment and wish them the best of health and happiness to enjoy and perform future duties in their new ranks.

The celebrations which followed the meetings were enjoyed by all present and continued by most on the train journey home.

A complete list of all recipients from both Craft and Chapter can be accessed by the links below:-

Craft Appointments List

Chapter Appointments List

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Grand Rank Appointments 2023 | Durham Freemasons

The Provincial Grand Master/Grand Superintendent is pleased to announce that the Grand Master/First Grand Principal has been pleased to appoint to and promote in Grand Rank a number of Durham members, who will be invested at the Annual Investitures of Grand Officers to be held on the 26th and 27th April, at Freemasons’ Hall in London.

We are extremely proud of all of them all and look forward to seeing them adorned in their new regalia and insignia when they return to our Lodges and Chapters.

Craft:

Receiving First Appointments:

Duncan Maw                            – PAGDC

David Anthony Turner         – PAGDC

Malcolm James Sweet          – PAGSwdB

Sidney James Watson          – PAGSwdB

Promoted to Past Grand Sword Bearer:

Michael Graham                       – PGSwdB

Promoted to Past Senior Grand Deacon:

Andrew Peter Fall Foster      – PSGD

Promoted to Past Junior Grand Deacon:

Dennis Hudson Robinson     – PJGD

Royal Arch:

Receiving First Appointments:

Michael Graham                       – PGStB

Paul Heatherington                – PGStB

Ronald William Davison      – PAGDC

Bryan Kennedy                        – PAGDC

Promoted to Past Assistant Grand Sojourner:

Peter Athen Smith                  – PAGSoj

We congratulate them all on their respective preferment in recognition of their commitment and dedication to Freemasonry and wish them the best of health and happiness………….to continue to enjoy their Freemasonry!

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Durham Mark PGM | Durham Freemasons

Monday 28 th November 2022 was a very special date in the Mark Master Masons of Durham calendar at “The Fed” in Dunston. Over 200 brethren gathered to witness the Installation of David Nigel Hanson, as the brand new Provincial Grand Master following the retirement of Prof Denovan Keith Wilson.

The Pro Grand Master, John Prizeman and a team of Grand Officers from London, including the Assistant Grand Master, our very own Den Wilson, arrived to carry out the Installation and a little after 11.30am they were admitted into the Lodge Room by the Presiding Master Frank Rankin and the ceremony took place.

The Craft and Chapter were well represented by the Provincial Grand Master John Thompson, his Deputy Michael Graham and Assistant John Watts for the Craft and Michael Shaw and Rak Bhalla for the Chapter to name but a few.

The meal which followed was of a very high standard and well served by the waitresses. The speeches and toasts were sincere and well received.

After a most enjoyable day the Provincial Grand Master made a point of congratulating David on his appointment as well as his Deputy Trevor Lynn and Assistant Michael Wilkinson.

The “Stronger Together” theme was never more evident than at this event and we all hope that David has many happy and fruitful years to enjoy his exalted position.

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Provincial AGM 2022 | Durham Freemasons

Saturday 3rd September 2022 saw the Annual Meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham return to the Rainton Arena in Houghton-le-Spring.

The Provincial Grand Stewards were on hand as usual with smiling faces to greet everyone on their arrival.

As the final rehearsals and preparations were taking place many of the early arrivals took the opportunity to chat and renew friendships in the robing and changing rooms, before taking their seats in the main meeting area.

The Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Andrew Dixon, then called the brethren to order to receive the various processions of Distinguished Guests, Past Rulers and Heads of Orders into the meeting, the final procession being the Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham with the Provincial Grand Master, John Thompson last through the doors, apart from his Standard Bearers.

Provincial Grand Lodge was then opened in due form, and after confirmation of the minutes of the last meeting it was that sad time to stand to order and remember those brethren who had passed to the Grand Lodge above since the last meeting which was done in silence and respect.

Before proceeding to work through the agenda John individually welcomed all of his invited guests from various Provinces including Past Rulers of the Craft and Chapter, his own Senior Officers and Heads of other Orders. Patents of appointments were read out and presented to Michael Graham, Deputy PGM, John Watts, Assistant PGM and Andrew Foster, Assistant PGM.

Prior to Appointing and Investing the Provincial Officers for the new Masonic year, John made special mention of Stephen Walker and Gordon Brewis who had stood down in June as Deputy and Assistant Provincial Grand Master respectively, thanking them for their hard work and commitment during their terms in office.

A Provincial Appointment is given in recognition of a Brother’s dedication and commitment over a sustained number of years, during which time he has shown the prerequisite attributes to be considered for a Provincial first appointment. The Honour rewards him not only for his service to Freemasonry to date, but in an expectation of continued support to the wider Province in future.

After the Principal Officers had been re-appointed and this year’s Provincial Grand Wardens

( meet the Wardens here )

had been individually Appointed, Invested, and placed in the West and South respectively , the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies called upon the Provincial Deputy Director of Ceremonies, assisted by the Provincial Stewards to take post.

The Stewards then expertly collected each recipient, escorting them before the PGM to be Invested, receiving their certificate of appointment from the Deputy PGM, and finally taken to their seat and acknowledged with the customary court bow, bursting with pride.

John then “called off” the Lodge in order to receive our guest speaker Brigadier Paul Baker OBE. Chief Executive Reserve Forces and Cadets Association North East England, who took his seat on the dais.

John then gave a short history of Brigadier Paul and then outlined our newly formed Armed Forces Committee, to further our involvement after signing The Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. Paul suitably replied outlining his role in the North East of England, and this will be produced as a seperate item in the near future.  The brethren showed their appreciation.

After Paul had retired from the Lodge the meeting was “called on” again and business resumed.

A collection was then taken in aid of Durham Benevolence where a fabulous amount of £2652.43 was raised in cash with further donations being made by the QR Code and the gift aid to be added to the final total!

Click here to view loads of pic s from today

John then delivered his address:-

Distinguished guests and Brethren all. I thank you for your patience for what has been a busy morning. I welcome you all to our AGM here today at Rainton.

We’ve had a busy 10 weeks since my installation in June, quickly followed by our chapter AGM in July and the celebration event at Ramside culminating in today. With numerous visits and deputations. We have hosted the Pro Grand Master, The Deputy Grand Master, and the Assistant Grand Master. I believe when our distinguished guests returned to London they were impressed with the brethren from Durham and what we had to offer, I know I was.

At this point I would like to congratulate all of those Brethren who I have had the pleasure of appointing today. These honours are not awarded lightly, careful deliberation and time is given to make sure each and every one is thoroughly deserved. I hope you have enjoyed today and will continue to support your Lodges, your Masonic Halls and of course your Province wherever you can and  enjoy the new responsibilities that you are have been afforded.

I would also like to record our thanks to all of those acting officers who have retired from their duties …………….

To read the full address delivered by the PGM,     click here

There being no further business from the Secretary John brought attention to the outstanding service to freemasonry and moreso to the Province of Durham by the retiring Director of Ceremonies Andrew Dixon and thanked him on behalf of everyone present, wishing him well for the future. The newly appointed DC, Martin Rankin was asked to present Andrew to John where he was awarded and presented with the Certificate of Service to Freemasonry.

Provincial Grand Lodge was then closed in due form which was followed by the first 2 versus of the National Anthem, before the processions that had so ceremoniously entered the venue at the start of the meeting, processed out.

A hive of activity soon followed as the Provincial Stewards and the Catering staff went about transforming the venue into a banquet hall for 325 people. The venue looked magnificent and full to capacity for all to enjoy and the meal was duly served by the catering staff to the happy gathering to round off a fabulous day hopefully enjoyed by all.

Well done to everyone who made the day such a success, and congratulations to anyone who received a Provincial Appointment.

Another landmark achieved. Roll on next year.

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Marking Well | Durham Freemasons

Owing to a re location, the Pro Grand Master of the Mark Degree, Most Worshipful Brother Raymond Smith has indicated his wish to retire, and as a result will stand down at the September communication of Grand Mark Lodge.

In consequence of this news, the Most Worshipful Grand Master has been pleased to make the following appointments:

As Pro Grand Master – _R.W.Bro. John Herbert Prizeman, Dep.G.M.

As Deputy Grand Master – _R.W.Bro. Francis Charles Spencer, Asst.G.M.

And as Assistant Grand Master – _R.W.Bro. Prof. Denovan Keith Wilson, Prov.G.M. for Durham

All of the above will be invested on the 13 th September by the Grand Master.

Denny is obviously very proud and delighted to accept this very prestigious appointment and will stand down as Provincial Grand Master of Durham at midnight on the 12 th September leaving David Hanson as the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge.

“This is wonderful news for the Province of Durham, Denny is respected by all and we wish him all the best in his new role. Mark Masonry is strong in Durham as a result of his commitment and drive and it’s wonderful that he now has the opportunity to do this on a national level. He has the full support from our Craft Executive, and we wish him good health to enjoy his new role.”    –   John Thompson Provincial Grand Master

Good Luck Denny and many congratulations from all Durham Freemasons.

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It’s a Small World Out There | Durham Freemasons

Mavin Macauley of Ryton Holy Cross 4231 and up until recently an active member of the Membership Committee for the Durham Province took up an appointment at the University in Auckland, New Zealand.

After a period of settlement, he made a visit to one of the local lodges and found the company welcoming. On further discussions, he was introduced to their Membership Officer of the District Grand Lodge of North Island, New Zealand, John Robinson of Lodge of Harmony 2180

They highlighted the following:

Making freemasonry visible in the community can benefit membership

Considering the modern lifestyle of “young men” is vital to maintaining membership

Encouraging younger brethren to do ritual with excellent mentorship aids retainment. For e.g. Mavin witnessed an excellent presentation of the apron by an E.A.

and of course, communication is essential for progression

The district was very supportive to their brethren during lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic. In one instance the district provided accommodation, food, social support for a few brethren who lost their jobs.

During the discussion, “Solomon” was identified as a learning aid for masons. Mavin and John highlighted the importance of digital platforms and social in achieving desirable outcomes of masonic membership. Additionally, they identified that understanding attrition rates and addressing them appropriately was crucial to addressing the issues with masonic membership. Overall, the discussion was positive and the district is on course to achieve their target in the next 5 years.

John Robinson was most appreciative of the work Mavin had done.  Summary comments from this discussion was forwarded to the District Grand Master for the North and South Island District Grand Lodges for consideration. One of these included the development of the role of a lodge mentor in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Forging new friendships is always a good thing!

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Provincial Royal Arch Convocation | Durham Freemasons

Friday 15 th July 2022 saw The Annual Convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Durham return to Rainton  Arena after an absence of 8 years. The recently refurbished venue welcomed a plethora of companions resplendent in the crimson, purple and blue of the Royal Arch.

The return also saw the Grand Superintendent, EComp John Paul Thompson preside over his inaugural convocation following his recent investiture in June of this year.

Wildly recognised as the highlight in the Royal Arch Masonic calendar, it provides an opportunity for companions from Masonic Halls throughout the province, along with distinguished guests to renew old friendships, meet future friends and of course, support the many Companions being either appointed or Promoted in Provincial Grand Chapter.

It is quite something to witness when the Chapter is set out in an auditorium of this size, richly embellished this year by the roar and magnificent sound of the Provincial Grand Organ so eloquently played by Richard Scothan, as the Companions stood to order to receive the Grand Superintendent and his Co-Principals.

With Provincial Grand Chapter opened in due form and apologies and minutes of the previous Convocation confirmed it was time for the Companions present to remember those companions we have lost since our last meeting, sadly 40 companions have passed since September 2021 and a total of 152 companions since our last physical meeting in May 2019.

After the Roll Call of Acting Provincial Grand Chapter Officers and Chapters, the Grand Superintendent welcomed the Companions, his Distinguished Guests, and Heads of other Orders.

With the Provincial Grand Treasurer’s Statement of Accounts considered and accepted by the Companions present and the Treasurer re-elected for another 12 months along with the official Auditors, it was time to fire up the carrousel of as the Grand Superintendent Appointed, Invested and Promoted the worthy Companions who were lucky enough to receive a letter of appointment on the 17th April 2022.

At this point in the proceedings, John paid tribute to E Comp Paul Anthony Lee Hopper who stood down as 2nd Provincial Grand Principal at the recent special Installation meeting held at Dunston on 25 th June. He thanked Paul for his dedication to the Order and invested him with a Collarette to mark his retirement after some 10 years of active service.

To see the full list of Appointments and Promotions Click Here .

With the Companions newly invested, safely back in their seats and the escorting carrousel of Director of Ceremonies retired back to their positions within Provincial Grand Chapter the Grand Superintendent, EComp John Paul Thompson addressed Provincial Grand Chapter.

In his address, he paid tribute to the Companions he had had the privilege of investing as well as the Companions those retiring acting officers for the support they have given to the Province, to Michael Shaw our Deputy, our past GS John Arthur and himself over the last year

Those who had been appointed to or Promoted in Supreme Grand Chapter. At the April Meeting of the Supreme Grand Chapter, where the Ceremony was presided over by The Pro First Grand Principal, Peter Geoffrey Lowndes, were introduced and applauded with acclamation.

He also complimented the Companions on the high attendance which is a testament to your commitment to Royal Arch masonry, on what was a day of work for many himself included, stating “I can assure you this will be the last Provincial meeting which occurs during the week”

Moving onto the subject of membership he expounded on the need to make our ceremonies enjoyable and engaging, allowing Companions not only to perform ritual to a high standard but to also understand their journey.

John spoke of his delight at how the Province was beginning to host social, sporting and charitable events outlining a number that are in the planning stage and would be announced in the near future.

To read the Grand Superintendent’s Address in full   Click Here .

A collection was then taken in Aid of  Durham Benevolence raising with gift aid over £1,500 , and with the companions having the opportunity of donating electronically by scanning a QR code on the back of the order of proceedings all donations made this weekend will be credited to the chapter collection.

After the Provincial Grand Scribe Ezra informed the Convocation that there was no other business Provincial Grand Chapter was then closed in due form the Grand Organ along with the Companions raised the roof with two verses of the National Anthem.

Remember companions, we are stronger together.

 Gallery of photos in flickr by clicking here

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A Landmark Day For Durham Freemasons | Durham Freemasons

Today, Saturday 25 th June, saw Gateshead bathed in sunshine, as over 400 Durham Freemasons and Brethren from many other Provinces gathered to witness the installation Ceremonies of WBro John Paul Thompson as Provincial Grand Master and Grand Superintendent.

Some 4 years have passed since the Freemasons of the Province of Durham witnessed an event of such high importance, emphasised by a packed FED Banqueting Suite who enjoyed a wonderful day with all the pomp and pageantry you would associate with such a momentous occasion.

Both Provincial Grand Chapter and Provincial Grand Lodge were reciprocally opened in due form by the Presiding Officer, Bro Stephen William Walker, before he graciously handed over to the Pro Grand Master, Peter Geoffrey Lowndes, to preside over one of his last such investitures in the provinces, having recently announced his retirement year, having been appointed as Pro Grand Master on 11 March 2009.

Peter went on to preside impeccably over both ceremonies, supported by Charles Hopkinson-Woolley, Grand Director of Ceremonies of UGLE.

The day also saw Michael Graham appointed as Deputy Provincial Grand Master having served as Assistant Provincial Grand Master since 2018.

Other appointments included the reappointments of Clinton Eliot Leeks, Andrew Moule and the returning John David Watts as Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, and the appointment of Andrew Peter Fall Foster as Assistant Provincial Grand Master to complete the quartet.

It was a fitting day for Stephen William Walker, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and Gordon Brewis, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, to stand down from their respective positions having both served the province with distinction.

Likewise, in the Royal Arch Michael Stuart Shaw was reappointed as Deputy Grand Superintendent, David Nigel Hanson was appointed Second Provincial Grand Principal, and Rakesh Bhalla was reappointed as Third Provincial Grand Principal, with Paul Anthony Lee Hopper standing down as Second Provincial Grand Principal, also having served with distinction.

Following his investiture as our Provincial Grand Master and Grand Superintendent, John  gave his addresses, each inspiring and both rapturously applauded by the brethren.  We congratulate him and look forward to a bright future under his leadership.

To read the Grand Superintendent’s Address in full  Click Here .

To read the Provincial Grand Master’s Address in full  Click Here .

At the conclusion of the formal proceedings, the room was hastily transformed into a banqueting suite to allow over 300 members to enjoy a fabulous luncheon and continue the celebrations into the early evening.

Together we are stronger.

Follow this link to view further images on our Flickr feed.

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