St Hilda No 240 Lodge South Shields. recent visited Rosslyn Chapel on Saturday 10th June 2023, organised by their Master Michael McDowell.
Originally intended for the members of his lodge, Michael expanded the invitation to the wives’ partners and other local lodges and a number from the Province of Northumberland, ensuring a full coach of 48 at departure.
Driver Wilf Crawford of Tyne Lodge Wallsend started to pick up the groups from Durham from South Shields, Jarrow and Hebburn before crossing the Tyne into the neighbouring Province of Northumberland picking up at Byker, Ponteland and Morpeth. Then headed to Rosslyn Chapel.
During the journey, on a hot and cloudless day, raffles and blind cards were held on board to raise funds for the South Shields Masonic Hall’s Children’s Party. Several prizes had been donated by those in the group. The raffles raised £153 for which Michael expressed his delight and for the generosity of the coach party.
On arrival at Rosslyn St. Clair Lodge Freemason Hall, the party was welcomed by David Kelly who escorted the party into the lodge where a buffet was laid on. David gave a shortened presentation on Rosslyn Chapel and its History.
Rosslyn Chapel is a short walk from the masonic hall. One of the party, 94-year-old Roderick Swalwell, who experiences mobility issues was assisted by a member of Rosslyn St. Clair Lodge, taking him by his car to the chapel where a wheelchair was provided.
The presentation provided by the Chapel’s guide proved to be enlightening and informative.
On the return journey home the coach stopped off at Eyemouth, where the coach party undertook “liquid replenishment” as it had been a hot day and the party needed refreshments “to stop dehydration on health grounds”.
The coach returned home dropping off passengers at their collection points. On arrival back at the South Shields Freemasons Hall, at 9 P.M., where the bar had been specially opened for those who wished to “refresh and replenish fluids”.
Altogether an excellent day.
Michael said:
“I am extremely delighted that the day went so well and that we were able to share the experience with our fellow Freemasons from Northumberland”.
With new friendships forged, we truly are
‘Stronger Together
