MESSAGE from our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan
12th JANUARY 2021
Good evening brethren,
Today our Almoner Bro. Gary Drysdale PM contacted the lodge widow's and I am very pleased to report that he found them all in good health, albeit, all are fed up with lockdown. They informed him that they had a good festive season but are waiting and hoping to get back to normal once this terrible Pandemic is over.
I would like to give a sincere thank you to thank our Bro. Almoner for taking the time to ensure the welfare of all our lodge widow's.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12th JANUARY 2021
Good evening brethren,
Today our Almoner Bro. Gary Drysdale PM contacted the lodge widow's and I am very pleased to report that he found them all in good health, albeit, all are fed up with lockdown. They informed him that they had a good festive season but are waiting and hoping to get back to normal once this terrible Pandemic is over.
I would like to give a sincere thank you to thank our Bro. Almoner for taking the time to ensure the welfare of all our lodge widow's.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MESSAGE from our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan
22nd December 2020
Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire Long Life Foodstuffs initiative (in conjunction with Lodge Buchan St. John No. 636).
Brethren on the 17th December Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 handed over the kind donation of long life Foodstuffs that was kindly donated to us as part of the above grand gesture to West Lothian Food Bank. Our Lodge took advantage of this kind gift and we added our donation of food stuff that we had planned for Xmas. Pictured is myself and Lodge Treasurer Bro. Tom Bambrough PM, with Martin Neilly of West Lothian Foodbank.
Martin has informed me this morning that the total weight of our donation was 275.6kg and that equates to 656 meals.
22nd December 2020
Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire Long Life Foodstuffs initiative (in conjunction with Lodge Buchan St. John No. 636).
Brethren on the 17th December Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 handed over the kind donation of long life Foodstuffs that was kindly donated to us as part of the above grand gesture to West Lothian Food Bank. Our Lodge took advantage of this kind gift and we added our donation of food stuff that we had planned for Xmas. Pictured is myself and Lodge Treasurer Bro. Tom Bambrough PM, with Martin Neilly of West Lothian Foodbank.
Martin has informed me this morning that the total weight of our donation was 275.6kg and that equates to 656 meals.
Martin Neilly Bro. Tom Bambourgh P.M. Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
**************************************************************************************************
MESSAGE from GRAND LODGE of SCOTLAND
17th DECEMBER 2020
Brethren
At the meeting of the Grand Committee of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, held on 10th December, 2020, it was approved that Bro Ronald James Gemmill PM 1186 would be appointed as Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Linlithgowshire, effective from 4th February, 2021.
Bro Gemmill PGM Designate is also pleased to announce that the following Brethren, will take up their duties and responsibilities of the new commission as of the above date.
Bro. Thomas Walker PM 272, Depute Provincial Grand Master
Bro. David O’Neill PM 374 Substitute Provincial Grand Master
Bro. Grant McLennan PM 927 Provincial Grand Secretary
Bro. Mark Gibson PM 636 Provincial Grand Chaplain
Warmest Congratulations
to all Brethren elected from the R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan and brethren of Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
******************************************************************************************************************.
17th DECEMBER 2020
Brethren
At the meeting of the Grand Committee of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, held on 10th December, 2020, it was approved that Bro Ronald James Gemmill PM 1186 would be appointed as Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Linlithgowshire, effective from 4th February, 2021.
Bro Gemmill PGM Designate is also pleased to announce that the following Brethren, will take up their duties and responsibilities of the new commission as of the above date.
Bro. Thomas Walker PM 272, Depute Provincial Grand Master
Bro. David O’Neill PM 374 Substitute Provincial Grand Master
Bro. Grant McLennan PM 927 Provincial Grand Secretary
Bro. Mark Gibson PM 636 Provincial Grand Chaplain
Warmest Congratulations
to all Brethren elected from the R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan and brethren of Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
******************************************************************************************************************.
MESSAGE from Bro. Jim Ellis R.W.P.G.M. of Linlithgowshire
14th DECEMBER 2020
Brethren ... since the Annual Appeal letter from Grand Almoner will not be read in Lodges this year, for your information, please find it copied below.
Ask yourself .... “Am I still in the NE Corner?”
If so ... you know what to do.
.
Grand Almoner writes .......
Last November, when I was installed as Grand Almoner, little did I suspect the immensely challenging and worrying times that lay ahead for us all. I hope you and your families have remained safe and well during the Pandemic. Looking back to last year, when we were able to attend meetings and to deal with our Masonic business in the traditional way, I don’t think that any of us could have predicted the COVID-19 Pandemic, and certainly not the impact which it has had on all our lives and on the Craft.
Whilst we await approval to resume our meetings, and, of course, this letter will therefore not be able to be read in open Lodge in the usual way, I wanted to communicate with you to keep in touch. I also wanted to highlight the excellent work which is being undertaken throughout the Scottish Constitution to provide direct support and in terms of working with other local community organisations which are helping vulnerable and needy people to cope during the unprecedented circumstances resulting from the Pandemic. I had the privilege of reviewing the applications for almost one hundred projects worldwide to access funding from the COVID-19 Challenge Appeal and of learning about the diverse and meaningful projects being organised by Brethren, some projects literally providing a lifeline in local communities. I was also pleased to note the information on projects being shared on the “Scottish Constitution Freemasonry Supports” Facebook page. It is often difficult to find positives at times of adversity but there is no doubt that the generosity, both financially and by deed, of Scottish Freemasons worldwide is something of which to be proud - when the Pandemic comes to an end I feel sure that we will have strengthened our links within our communities as a result of our actions.
I know that in some regions of the world Brethren are also having to deal with very difficult circumstances as well as with the Pandemic and Grand Lodge will try to provide whatever assistance is possible to those affected.
Many of you will, I am sure, be aware of the extremely challenging circumstances which COVID-19 has presented in Care Homes, where the age and health of the Residents mean that they are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the virus. I am pleased and relieved to advise that the Masonic Homes have remained free of the virus and I commend our Staff for their dedication and care.
Whilst we are all living through testing times, the benevolence and charity work of Grand Lodge continues to support Brethren in need and respond to emergencies. I thank you most sincerely for your ongoing support – the charitable work of our Craft would quite simply not be possible without such support”.
Thomas Davidson,
Grand Almoner.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
14th DECEMBER 2020
Brethren ... since the Annual Appeal letter from Grand Almoner will not be read in Lodges this year, for your information, please find it copied below.
Ask yourself .... “Am I still in the NE Corner?”
If so ... you know what to do.
.
Grand Almoner writes .......
Last November, when I was installed as Grand Almoner, little did I suspect the immensely challenging and worrying times that lay ahead for us all. I hope you and your families have remained safe and well during the Pandemic. Looking back to last year, when we were able to attend meetings and to deal with our Masonic business in the traditional way, I don’t think that any of us could have predicted the COVID-19 Pandemic, and certainly not the impact which it has had on all our lives and on the Craft.
Whilst we await approval to resume our meetings, and, of course, this letter will therefore not be able to be read in open Lodge in the usual way, I wanted to communicate with you to keep in touch. I also wanted to highlight the excellent work which is being undertaken throughout the Scottish Constitution to provide direct support and in terms of working with other local community organisations which are helping vulnerable and needy people to cope during the unprecedented circumstances resulting from the Pandemic. I had the privilege of reviewing the applications for almost one hundred projects worldwide to access funding from the COVID-19 Challenge Appeal and of learning about the diverse and meaningful projects being organised by Brethren, some projects literally providing a lifeline in local communities. I was also pleased to note the information on projects being shared on the “Scottish Constitution Freemasonry Supports” Facebook page. It is often difficult to find positives at times of adversity but there is no doubt that the generosity, both financially and by deed, of Scottish Freemasons worldwide is something of which to be proud - when the Pandemic comes to an end I feel sure that we will have strengthened our links within our communities as a result of our actions.
I know that in some regions of the world Brethren are also having to deal with very difficult circumstances as well as with the Pandemic and Grand Lodge will try to provide whatever assistance is possible to those affected.
Many of you will, I am sure, be aware of the extremely challenging circumstances which COVID-19 has presented in Care Homes, where the age and health of the Residents mean that they are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the virus. I am pleased and relieved to advise that the Masonic Homes have remained free of the virus and I commend our Staff for their dedication and care.
Whilst we are all living through testing times, the benevolence and charity work of Grand Lodge continues to support Brethren in need and respond to emergencies. I thank you most sincerely for your ongoing support – the charitable work of our Craft would quite simply not be possible without such support”.
Thomas Davidson,
Grand Almoner.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MESSAGE FROM our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan
10th DECEMBER 2020
Well brethren, here we are getting close to the festive season and still in the grips of this terrible Pandemic.
At this time of year we would be ready to have our children's party, and not forgetting our seniors Xmas lunch and waiting on the arrival of the man with beard, santa.
At this time we would be attending our meetings, exchanging Xmas cards and looking forward to the festivities. I would personally wish everyone a Merry Xmas and place a card on our lodge notice board and give my Xmas donation to the lodge. So, I would like to take this opportunity and use Facebook & the Lodge Website to wish all the Brethren and their families a very merry festive period, albeit restrained under these covid restrictions. I also have this morning used modern banking facilties and given the lodge my normal Xmas donation.
What a difference a year can make???? Here we are just about to be dropped into tier 3 and although it is a step in the right direction we still are a long way from getting back to normality. With the start of the vaccine roll out we are going in the right direction, some have said that this is the beginning of the end, I sincerely hope that this is the case.
So, when will we be able to meet up again, who knows. If I was being honest, I would say April would be a guess for the earliest date, but you never know. As it has been some time since we were able to meet and it still looks like we are at least a few months away from being able to do so, I thought it would be a great time to review what has happened since March.
After we closed on the 21st March we were closed for a short period of time. Bro. Paul Heron and myself would meet up every week and walk through our premises to ensure we were complying with the terms of our insurance policy. The first thing that was done was a complete deep clean of our premises and I would like to thank Bro. Paul Heron, Bro. Bryan Thomson and the 2 ladies that came in for a full week and carried out all the required work.
During the lockdown period the 5 man management Committee took advantage of the premises being closed. We cleared out the cellar and skipped a few years of collected stuff that we had kept, just in case it came in handy, haven't we all done this. The room that we called the guest artists room was given the same treatment and this room will soon be converted to the RWM, secretary and treasurer's office. At this time we also cleared out the cupboards in the kitchen with new shelfs and a coat of paint to freshen them up. We have also, unfortunately, had to spend a fare bit of money on various repairs and additions. Below is a full list and what it cost to do.
1. Repair and replace the locks on the fire doors = £150
2. Replace the roller shutter door on the main entrance as the old door had completely given up. = £1800
3. Complete new CCTV 8 camera security system = £1100.
Many thanks to Bro. John Morgan and the 5 man committee for installing this.
4. Replacement of the air conditioning unit = £3800
5. Replacement ceiling tiles = £120
6. Putting covid 19 compliant systems in place = £300
Unfortunately we still have some other work still to do. The guttering around our premises needs to be cleared with some of it needing replaced. This is in hand and will be completed in the next few weeks.
We have been experiencing some problems with the new heating system installed just 18 months ago. The installer has been back and hopefully it will be resolved in the next few weeks.
Also with our premises being closed, it does give you that bit more time to see jobs that need to be done and we are waiting on estimates coming in for some decorating to be carried out. Just like your own home, it is never ending.
There are some other major ongoing issues that were identified during lockdown that hopefully will be resolved over the coming months.
Hopefully when we have the opportunity to reopen we will go from strength to strength.
We have also not let these terrible times stop us giving support and assistance to local organisations that needed our help. As such the lodge has given out another £1000 to local charities and also Murrayfield primary school during this lockdown period.
In the meantime brethren, stay safe and look after yourself and your family. And remember brethren, if you know of of a brother who's circumstances are such that they need assistance, you know what to do.
RWM. Bro. Wallace Allan
*******************************************************************************************************************
10th DECEMBER 2020
Well brethren, here we are getting close to the festive season and still in the grips of this terrible Pandemic.
At this time of year we would be ready to have our children's party, and not forgetting our seniors Xmas lunch and waiting on the arrival of the man with beard, santa.
At this time we would be attending our meetings, exchanging Xmas cards and looking forward to the festivities. I would personally wish everyone a Merry Xmas and place a card on our lodge notice board and give my Xmas donation to the lodge. So, I would like to take this opportunity and use Facebook & the Lodge Website to wish all the Brethren and their families a very merry festive period, albeit restrained under these covid restrictions. I also have this morning used modern banking facilties and given the lodge my normal Xmas donation.
What a difference a year can make???? Here we are just about to be dropped into tier 3 and although it is a step in the right direction we still are a long way from getting back to normality. With the start of the vaccine roll out we are going in the right direction, some have said that this is the beginning of the end, I sincerely hope that this is the case.
So, when will we be able to meet up again, who knows. If I was being honest, I would say April would be a guess for the earliest date, but you never know. As it has been some time since we were able to meet and it still looks like we are at least a few months away from being able to do so, I thought it would be a great time to review what has happened since March.
After we closed on the 21st March we were closed for a short period of time. Bro. Paul Heron and myself would meet up every week and walk through our premises to ensure we were complying with the terms of our insurance policy. The first thing that was done was a complete deep clean of our premises and I would like to thank Bro. Paul Heron, Bro. Bryan Thomson and the 2 ladies that came in for a full week and carried out all the required work.
During the lockdown period the 5 man management Committee took advantage of the premises being closed. We cleared out the cellar and skipped a few years of collected stuff that we had kept, just in case it came in handy, haven't we all done this. The room that we called the guest artists room was given the same treatment and this room will soon be converted to the RWM, secretary and treasurer's office. At this time we also cleared out the cupboards in the kitchen with new shelfs and a coat of paint to freshen them up. We have also, unfortunately, had to spend a fare bit of money on various repairs and additions. Below is a full list and what it cost to do.
1. Repair and replace the locks on the fire doors = £150
2. Replace the roller shutter door on the main entrance as the old door had completely given up. = £1800
3. Complete new CCTV 8 camera security system = £1100.
Many thanks to Bro. John Morgan and the 5 man committee for installing this.
4. Replacement of the air conditioning unit = £3800
5. Replacement ceiling tiles = £120
6. Putting covid 19 compliant systems in place = £300
Unfortunately we still have some other work still to do. The guttering around our premises needs to be cleared with some of it needing replaced. This is in hand and will be completed in the next few weeks.
We have been experiencing some problems with the new heating system installed just 18 months ago. The installer has been back and hopefully it will be resolved in the next few weeks.
Also with our premises being closed, it does give you that bit more time to see jobs that need to be done and we are waiting on estimates coming in for some decorating to be carried out. Just like your own home, it is never ending.
There are some other major ongoing issues that were identified during lockdown that hopefully will be resolved over the coming months.
Hopefully when we have the opportunity to reopen we will go from strength to strength.
We have also not let these terrible times stop us giving support and assistance to local organisations that needed our help. As such the lodge has given out another £1000 to local charities and also Murrayfield primary school during this lockdown period.
In the meantime brethren, stay safe and look after yourself and your family. And remember brethren, if you know of of a brother who's circumstances are such that they need assistance, you know what to do.
RWM. Bro. Wallace Allan
*******************************************************************************************************************
MESSAGE FROM our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan
29th November 2020
Hi brethren
This morning our Almoner Bro. Gary Drysdale P.M. called round the lodge widow's and it gives me great pleasure to report that they are all in good health.
At this time of year, and especially during this time of Covid 19, it is important that our lodge widow's know that we are thinking of them and that if they require any assistance we are here for them.
In these modern times you hear the question of what can being a Freemason do for me. Well brethren here is one example. I am sure that this is not only our lodge, but every lodge that takes the time and effort to do this.
I would like to thank our Almoner, Bro. Gary Drysdale P.M. not only for doing this, but also for keeping us informed of their welfare.
Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
29th November 2020
Hi brethren
This morning our Almoner Bro. Gary Drysdale P.M. called round the lodge widow's and it gives me great pleasure to report that they are all in good health.
At this time of year, and especially during this time of Covid 19, it is important that our lodge widow's know that we are thinking of them and that if they require any assistance we are here for them.
In these modern times you hear the question of what can being a Freemason do for me. Well brethren here is one example. I am sure that this is not only our lodge, but every lodge that takes the time and effort to do this.
I would like to thank our Almoner, Bro. Gary Drysdale P.M. not only for doing this, but also for keeping us informed of their welfare.
Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
MESSAGE FROM OUR R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan 24th November 2020
I would like to thank P.G.M. Bro. Jim Ellis and P.G.S. Bro. Tommy Walker for all their help and assistance they have given to all Lodges but in particular our own lodge over the last 8 months of this terrible Pandemic. I can assure you brethren, the 5 man committee have greatly appreciated their guidance and support. Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
Reply from Bro. Jim Ellis R.W.P.G.M.
Brethren, I trust you are all staying well and will remain so now that many of us are in the first day of our Level 4 Covid-19 restrictions.
These restrictions naturally being to the fore of our thoughts the negative impact which this virus is meeting out to us and the manner in which it is severely curtailing all of our Masonic activities.
This afternoon would have been the Annual Installation of the Office-bearers of Lodge Lord Bruce, No. 1601, at which we would have enjoyed a very warm welcome, the witty (?) banter of the D.O.C., the well rehearsed Ceremony of Installation and the general fraternal friendship which always abounds in 1601.
This will all be greatly missed.
I would therefore, here, congratulate and thank Brother Wallace Allan, R.W.M, and his team of Office-bearers, for the manner in which they have coped with current challenges and for all their wonderful efforts and support of our craft during the last year .. I wish them the very best in their forthcoming terms of office.
I sincerely hope that the memories which will be built for all Brethren in the Lodge, going forward, will be of a happier and more positive nature as time progresses.
Following on from my earlier post from P.G.M. Bro. Jim Ellis and this being (or would have been) our annual installation.
If everything being normal, today would have been my last day as R.W.M. At 2.30 today I would be handing over the mantle of responsibility to the new master elect (WSW, Bro. Robert McLaughlin). I know how disappointed he must be today, after all he has been preparing for this for the last few years. Also all the preparation that his Installing Masters will have done over the last year, I can only wait in anticipation that they will be word perfect next year, as they always are.
I would at this time like to thank all the office bearers for their help and support over the last 12 months and also thank them for accepting that they are going to be in the same office for the next 12 months.
This year we have faced and dealt with circumstances that we could never had anticipated when we took our obligations last year, it has been a whole new experience for us all. At this time I think it would be remiss of me not to make exceptional mention of the hard work that the members of the 5 man committee have carried out (and continue to do so) over this exceptionally long term. The challenges that they took on and dealt with have been exceptional. I am sure that when we can all get back together they will be obvious to you all.
I hope you are all well and safe, and remember brethren, if you know of a brother who's circumstances are such that they require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact myself or any member of 1601 who will do our utmost to be of help
Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
********APPEAL FROM THE LODGE REGARDS TEST FEES******
Brethren I am sure like many of us we are missing our Masonic Meetings on a Monday Night and the Harmony thereafter. Unfortunately it looks like this lockdown could last well until mid 2021. Grand Lodge is still asking for contributions and as a lodge we are obliged to pay them, but with no income I am appealing to my fellow brethren of Lodge Lprd Bruce 1601 if they would seriously consider paying their Test Fees {£35} to the lodge. It is quite amazing how many accounts our Treasurer has had to pay out in the last six Months…. Income is literally NIL.......... while expenditure is HIGH.
There is several ways you can pay your test fees
The Royal Bank of Scotland Sort Code 83 28 21 A/C No. 00190064
or
Cheque payable to Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
Post to:
Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
Masonic Temple
Kidd Street
Bathgate Road
Blackburn
West Lothian
EH47 7LW
or
If you wish to pay by cash contact any of the 5 Man Committee who will gladly hand over your payment to our Treasurer Br. Tom Bambourgh P.M
I can assure you brethren it will be greatly received and faithfully applied Many thanks in anticipation
THE COMMITTEE
___________________________________________________
Message from our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan
------13th NOVEMBER 2020------
Brethren an update from above : We now have a fully installed CCTV system many thanks to Bro. John Morgan & his apprentices!! who completed the Installation. The lodge heating system was giving us problems therefore Bro. Wallace Allan RWM & Bro. Tom Bambourgh PM have attended and have solved the problem by having a new water tank installed. The next venture is the painting of the corridor from the Bar down to the Kitchen. Once again a big thank you to all the brethren who are coming along and working hard to prepare the lodge for when we eventually are in a position to welcome our brethren and visitors to Lodge Lord Bruce1601
With the help of the other 4 members of the 5 man committee we cleared out the cellar and the guest artist room. We also cleared out and painted the storage cupboard in the kitchen. If you check out the car park you will see that we manged easily to fill a skip. We still have a fare bit to do but we are getting there. Over the last few months we have replaced the main door roller shutter with an electrical automatic shutter door, we had to install a new air conditioning unit in the cellar and two brand new all singing and dancing cash registers.
Over the next few weeks we are doing a few changes in the main hall/temple and I think we will have plenty of time to complete before our meetings start up.
We also hope to have our new CCTV system up and running in the next couple of weeks.
To this, add all the changes the government are making and I can assure you we have been kept busy over the summer period. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the other 4 members of the 5 man committee for all the time and effort they have put in, greatly appreciated.
All in all brethren, I am sure you will see some changes when we are able to return. I hope that they all meet with your approval.
I sincerely wish and pray that you all stay safe and well and I look forward to when we can meet up fully suited proudly wearing our Lodge Lord Bruce regalia.
The Five Man Committee: Bro. Wallace Allan Bro. Andrew Wallace,
Bro. Tom Bambourgh, Bro. Paul Heron, Bro. Robert McLauchlin.
Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE LAPEL BADGE
Our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan has accepted our consignment of 10 Badges.This is to raise money for our P.G.M. Bro. Jim Ellis in his charity fund raising year. The cost of the badge is £5. If any brother would like to purchase a badge please contact our R.W.M.
by calling or text 07583295483.
It would be wonderful in these troubled times if our R.W.W. had to contact Provincial and ask for more.
This is an ideal opportunity to support Freemasonry: as we are unable to attend our Lodge at present.
******Thank You******
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Our R.W.M. Bro. Wallace Allan has accepted our consignment of 10 Badges.This is to raise money for our P.G.M. Bro. Jim Ellis in his charity fund raising year. The cost of the badge is £5. If any brother would like to purchase a badge please contact our R.W.M.
by calling or text 07583295483.
It would be wonderful in these troubled times if our R.W.W. had to contact Provincial and ask for more.
This is an ideal opportunity to support Freemasonry: as we are unable to attend our Lodge at present.
******Thank You******
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Dear Bro. Secretary
As you will be aware this year was to have been a year in which we celebrated our 100th Year Anniversary. Sadly, not a lot is happening and several Special Meetings that we had planned, and also several fundraising events in support of our Centenary Fund, all had to be cancelled. At this time we are hoping that our Rededication Ceremony will take place in January 2021, however, with the likelihood that social distancing will be with us for a long time to come, there must already be some doubt about this.
During this year we had hoped to be able to sell several commemorative items in support of our Centenary Fund. Sadly we have not been able to do this however can I ask that, if you have an online mailing list, you forward this email to your members making them aware of what's on offer.
If you are interested in purchasing any of these items, or indeed as a present for a colleague, then please let me know and I will arrange delivery.
A Small Centenary Pin Badge (£3)
B Centenary Token (£7)
C new Mark Token (£7)
D Centenary NHS/VEday Thank You Token (£10) *
E Centenary Presentation Box - includes B & C above (£25)
F Prov. Grand Lodge 2020 Charity Pin Badge (£5) **
G Lodge 2021 Diary (£4)
H Lodge clip-on Tie (£10)
* includes donation to NHS charity
** all proceeds to Prov. Grand Master's Charity Fund.
Thank you for your assistance, take care and stay safe.
Ray Newton PM & Secretary
Lodge Hopetoun St. John, No. 1232
'Creagmhor'
35 Tippetknowes Road
WINCHBURGH
West Lothian
EH52 6UN
rrnewton1232@gmail.com
01506 890058
077 3232 2418
2020
Coronavirus
VE Day – 75th Anniversary
Lodge Hopetoun St. John, No. 1232 – 100th Anniversary
Brethren, across the country, on a Thursday evening most of us have been clapping hands not just to thank the NHS, but also to thank all those who, even in a small way, contributed to providing us with the care and support that we all rely on. Included are our posties, our bin men, police officers, the military forces, shopkeepers, drivers etc. etc. – all who cared for us.
To acknowledge all their efforts Lodge Hopetoun St. John, No. 1232, with support from VSL Regalia (Livingston) has produced a limited edition ‘Centenary Thank You Token’ which not only depicts our 100th Anniversary Year, but also demonstrates our sincere thanks to all who have assisted us by going beyond the call of duty.
In addition we also recognise the efforts of all those, including many freemasons, who 75 years ago gave up their today for our tomorrow. Sadly, in May of this year, due to restrictions, we were unable to express our thanks in the way that we would like to have done. Our token proudly displays the logo of the 75th Anniversary of VE Day.
We hope to have the tokens (enamel), as shown above, available by end July. However, if you would like to reserve one now then please contact me, Bro. Ray Newton, PM & Secretary at rrnewton1232@gmail.com.
On this unique occasion we are asking that you consider a payment of £10 per token which will include p&p as well as a donation to an appropriate charity.
We thank you for your support and very much look forward to hearing from you.
Would make a lovely gift !
Bro. Ray Newton, P.M. D.S.M. & Secretary 20th June 2020
Lodge Hopetoun St. John, No. 1232
rrnewton1232@gmail.com
*******************************************************************************
******Scottish Lodges*******
Click here for details of all Scottish Lodges
_______________________________________________________________________
Our R.W.M. will be visiting the following lodges week commencing:-
Monday.. .....Lodge:
Tuesday.......Lodge:
Wednesday. Lodge:
Thursday.....Lodge:
Friday...........Lodge:
Saturday...…Lodge:
Sunday.............Instruction Class Commences @ 11.00 a.m. PROMPT
The above meetings are subject to change
Thank you for your support Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M.
*****************************************************************************************************
Through the WebSite I would like to say a sincere thank you to all the Past Masters who participated in the "Past Masters Degree" on Monday 9th March. Even though I say it myself each and every one of the brethren were outstanding and a credit to the lodge. With the dedication given by all it can only make our lodge go from strength to strength. I look forward to meeting you all on my return from France
Bro Robert Clements P.M.
*****************************************************************************************************
1601 News.... scroll down the page for news and photographs:
Monday 9th March 2020
As our R.W.M. was still on holiday our I.P.M. Bro. Joe Robb was in charge of tonight's meeting. After opening the lodge his first duty was a very pleasant one and that was to welcome all brethren in to the lodge with a special thanks to the visitors. Apologies were rendered on behalf of Bro. Wallace Allan R.W.M., Bro. John Clarkson, Bro. Paul Heron P.M. Bro. Tom Bambourgh P.M., Bro. Matt Harvey P.M. & Bro. James James Harvey P.M.
Sick Report: Bro. Tony Caven informed the brethren that Bro. Alex King P.M. had his operation and was recovering very slowly. Bro. Robert Clements informed the brethren he had visited Bro. Matt Harvey P.M. and he was still waiting to go into hospital for an operation. On behalf of all at 1601 we wish them both a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back in the lodge very soon.
Visitations: The following brother gave a report of visiting a lodge since our last meeting Bro. Bro. Robert Clements P.M. to 178,590,1186,1232 & 636
Our D.O.C. then presented the following brethren, Bro. Colin Johnston R.W.M. 17, Bro. Bro Billy Hilson R.W.M. 1145, Bro. Alan Johnston R.W.M. 1658, Bro. Kevin Bartleman I.P.M. 1658, Bro. George Watson P.M. 1587, Bro. James Stewart P.M. 1658 & Bro. James Rankine P.M. 8791 E.C. All brethren were invited to the east. I then called on our secretary Bro. Andrew Wallace P.M. for any business. Bro. Wallace P.M. read the minutes from the last regular meeting & the Last Committee Meeting. He read correspondence from various daughter lodges regards there meetings for March/April and correspondence from Grand lodge & Provincial Grand Lodge. No accounts for payments.
I then asked our D.O.C. to retire and on his return he presented a a very large mixed deputation headed by Bro. Tom Gray R.W.M. 92 7, Bro. Ross Fleming R.W.M. 13, Bro. Adam Beesley R.W.M. 178, Bro. Jamie Rafferty R.W.M. 1186, Bro. Grant McClennan I.P.M. 927, Bro. Dick Ralston I.P.M. 1186, Bro. Andrew Fleming P.M. 13 H.M. 1601, Bro. Leo Ferris P.M. 927, Bro. Jim Gilmour P.M. 374 H.M.1601 Bro. Alan Duthie P.M. 178 H.M. 1601, Bro. Bro. Jimmy Robertson P.M. 1186 H.M. 1601, Bro. Alan Baker P.M. 1614 & Bro. William McBride P.M. 248 all brethren were invited to the east while the remainder of the deputation I welcomed into the lodge. After all the presentations. Bro Robb I.P.M. then presented the gavel to Bro. Robert Clements P.M. in order that his degree team of Lodge Past Masters could confer a Master Mason Degree
The candidate was Bro. Andrew Gourley F.C.
After the completion of the degree and receiving the gavel back from Bro. Clements Bro. Robb congratulated the degree team of Past Masters on a quite outstanding Master Mason Degree. Acting I.P.M. Bro Garry Drysdale then invited Bro. Alan Johnston R.W.M. 1658 to say a few words on behalf of the visitors. Bro. Johnston congratulated Bro. Robert Clements P.M. and his degree team of Past Masters on an excellent degree and congratulated Bro. Gourley on the very efficient way he answered his questions and the excellent way he conducted himself round the floor a definite office bearer in the making. Bro. Johnston thanked Bro. Robb for the warm welcome given to him and all the visitors on entering the lodge.
Bro. Joe Robb I.P.M.
Attendance: 54 Brethren
Collection: £136-00
ALL LODGE MEETING CANCELLED UNTIL FUTHER NOTICE
SEE PROVINCIAL LETTER on HOME PAGE
.
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I then asked our D.O.C. to retire and on his return he presented a a very large mixed deputation headed by Bro. Tom Gray R.W.M. 92 7, Bro. Ross Fleming R.W.M. 13, Bro. Adam Beesley R.W.M. 178, Bro. Jamie Rafferty R.W.M. 1186, Bro. Grant McClennan I.P.M. 927, Bro. Dick Ralston I.P.M. 1186, Bro. Andrew Fleming P.M. 13 H.M. 1601, Bro. Leo Ferris P.M. 927, Bro. Jim Gilmour P.M. 374 H.M.1601 Bro. Alan Duthie P.M. 178 H.M. 1601, Bro. Bro. Jimmy Robertson P.M. 1186 H.M. 1601, Bro. Alan Baker P.M. 1614 & Bro. William McBride P.M. 248 all brethren were invited to the east while the remainder of the deputation I welcomed into the lodge. After all the presentations. Bro Robb I.P.M. then presented the gavel to Bro. Robert Clements P.M. in order that his degree team of Lodge Past Masters could confer a Master Mason Degree
The candidate was Bro. Andrew Gourley F.C.
After the completion of the degree and receiving the gavel back from Bro. Clements Bro. Robb congratulated the degree team of Past Masters on a quite outstanding Master Mason Degree. Acting I.P.M. Bro Garry Drysdale then invited Bro. Alan Johnston R.W.M. 1658 to say a few words on behalf of the visitors. Bro. Johnston congratulated Bro. Robert Clements P.M. and his degree team of Past Masters on an excellent degree and congratulated Bro. Gourley on the very efficient way he answered his questions and the excellent way he conducted himself round the floor a definite office bearer in the making. Bro. Johnston thanked Bro. Robb for the warm welcome given to him and all the visitors on entering the lodge.
Bro. Joe Robb I.P.M.
Attendance: 54 Brethren
Collection: £136-00
ALL LODGE MEETING CANCELLED UNTIL FUTHER NOTICE
SEE PROVINCIAL LETTER on HOME PAGE
.
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Monday 30th September 2019 the W.S.W and the Mature Members conferred a 1st Degree
Bro. A. Caven. Bro. J. McEwen P.M. Bro. M. Harvey P.M. Bro. A. Wallace P.M. Bro. A. Beesley W.S.W. 178 Bro. T. Bambourgh P.M.
Bro. A. Robertson( candidate) Bro. P. Heron P.M. Bro. W. Allan (conferring master) Bro. J. Robb R.W.M. Bro. R. McLauchlan S.D.
On Monday 22nd October 2018 Bro. Joe Robb W.J.W. M.E. selected a team of "Mature " brethren to carry out the Fellow Craft Degree.
Bro. K. Dodd Bro. D Richardson Br. R. McLachlan Br. J. Robb Bro. W. Allan Bro. T. Bambourgh Bro. D. Ure
Friendship Cup
On Saturday 18th August 2018 @ Seafield Bowling Club the annual Bowling Tournament between Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 and Lodge Scotia 178 Glasgow was held. I am delighted to inform the brethren that Lodge Lord 1601 were the victors and the winning team pictured above was:
Bro. Jimmy Robertson Bro. Eddie Drysdale Bro. Garry Drysdale Bro. Joe Robb
Well done brethren make sure you win the Trophy next year
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Bro. John Smith : Bro. Andrew Wallace P.M. : Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M.
Brethren who represented the lodge at the 200th Anniversary Ceremony of Rededication of Lodge St. John Midcalder 272 on Saturday 5th May 2018 @
The Houston House Hotel Uphall
On Monday 12th February 2018 R.W.M. Bro. Matt Harvey presented
Bro. Jim Ellis P.M. 827 with his Honorary Members Diploma and Lodge Tie
On Monday 12th February 2018 Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M. was presented with his Jewel as Honorary Grand Director of Ceremonies of The Grand Lodge of Scotland and his Diploma by Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master Bro. James Ellis P.M. 827
Monday 12th February 2018
A memorable night in Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 with
Bro. Jim Ellis P.M. 827 Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M. 1601 Bro. Matt Harvey R.W.M. 1601
On Monday 22nd January 2018 Bro. Matt Harvey R.W.M.
presented Bro David Ure P.M. with his 50 year Jubilee Diploma
On Monday 8th January 2018 Bro. Matt Harvey R.W.M. presented
Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M. with his 50 year Jubilee Diploma
and a 50 Year Anniversary Jewel
On Monday 28th November 2016 Bro. Joe Robb I.P.M. presented Bro. Tommy Steel I.P.M. 1186
with his Honorary Members Diploma and Lodge Tie
On Monday 14th November 2016 R.W.M. Bro. Joe Robb presented Bro. Alan Duthie I.P.M. 178
with his Honorary Members Diploma & Lodge Tie
On Monday 14th November 2016 Bro. Charlie Rogerson presented the Lodge with a Heart Start Defibrillator
Lodge Lord Bruce successful Bowling Team 2016
Bro. Garry Drysdale W.S.W Bro David Heggie Bro. Andrew Fleming P.M. H.M.1601 Bro. John Weir Bro. Wallace Allan P.M.
On the 24th October 2016 Bro. Joe Robb R.W.M. presented Bro Robert Taylor with his 50 year Jubilee Diploma while Bro John Weir presented Bro. Robert with a 50 year Jewel on behalf of the family
On Wednesday 19th October 2016 four of the brethren from the Lodge visited Bro. Tom Smyth at his home to celebrate his 97th Birthday The brethren gifted Bro. Tom with a 50 year Jewel, 5oth Anniversary Tie and a Photograph.
Tom's mother lodge is Whifflet St John 963 Coatbridge
In 1963 Tom became a Founder Member of 1601 and to the best of our knowledge he along with Bro. Jim Girdwood P.M F.M. and
Bro. Hugh Haston F.M. are the only surviving Founder Members (if you know otherwise please contact) He was our lodge Almoner for 12 years. Due to ill health Tom could not attend the lodge to receive his 50 year Jubilee Certificate. The brethren decided to present Tom with a 50 year Jewel to commemorate his 53 years as a member of Lodge Lord Bruce 1601.
Tom was delighted to meet with the brethren and have a good chat about "The Auld Times"
His only wish was that he could get out to attend a lodge meeting. ( Almoners Post is still vacant Tom )
Brethren in the photograph Bro. David Shields Almoner Bro. Joe Robb R.W.M. Bro. Phil Devitt Ass. Sec P.M. Bro. Charlie Rogerson D.O.C.
Brethren who took part in the Young Masons Degree team on Monday 11th October 2016
Bro. R. McLauchlin Bro R. Scott Bro. D Ure P.M. Bro K. Dodd
Bro. R. Hastie Bro. J. Drysdale P.M. Bro. G Drysdale (Conferring Master) Bro. J. Barnes
On Friday 5th February 2016 within the premises of Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
Bro. James Ellis Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master presented
Bro. Thomas Marshall P.M. 1601 with his Provincial Grand Senior Wardens Jewel
Bro. Marshall was Initiated into 1601 in May 1972 & R.W.M. in 1990/91
In 2001 when our Provincial Representative Bro. John Clarkson was presented with his Provincial Grand Senior Wardens Jewel, the lodge was now looking for a new representative. Bro. Marshall was asked if he would like to become our representative to which he replied: "I will cover it for a year and see what happens"
15 years later he received his Senior Wardens Jewel.
A year is a long time in Freemasonary
As a debt of gratitude for his services on Monday 8th February 2016
R.W.M. Bro. Joe Robb on behalf of the lodge presented Tom with a
Provincial Grand Senior Wardens Apron, Sash & Case
Congratulations to Bro Tom Marshall P.M. from all at Lodge Lord Bruce
Monday 14th December 2015
R.W.M. Bro Joe Robb presents Bro. David Heggie with his 50 year Jubilee Certificate
Monday 26th October 2015
R.W.M. Bro. Bro Matt Harvey presents Bro John Weir M.M. with his 50 year Jubilee Certificate
Bro John Weir was initiated into Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 in May 1965
He is the first initiate of 1601 to be presented with the 50 year Jubilee Certificate in his Mother Lodge
Monday 26th October 2015
Bro Richard Park P.M. Lodge Nisbet Tranent 1112 was made an Honorary Member of 1601
R.W.M. Bro. Matt Harvey presents Richard with his Diploma and Lodge Tie
Monday 28th September 2015
Bro. Alan Borsbey P.M. Lodge St John Stoneyburn 1186 was made an Honorary Member of 1601.
R.W.M. Bro. Matt Harvey presents Alan with his Honorary Members Diploma and Lodge Tie
On
Friday 5th June 2015 at Lodge Almondale 1658 Bro. Patrick McCluskey P.M. Lodge
Lord Bruce 1601 was presented with his Jubilee 50 Years Service Certificate to
Freemasonry
by
Bro Robert W. Scott R.W.P.G.M. of Linlithgowshire.
Bro James Caven R.W.M. 1658 on behalf of Lodge
Almondale presented to Bro. Pat.
McCluskey P.M. a 50 Year Service Jewel
Bro. Pat McCluskey is an Honorary Member of 7 Lodges and in February 2015 he
was presented with the Honorary
Provincial Grand Junior Warden Jewel for services to Freemasonry by Bro. Robert
W. Scott.
Bro. Pat was initiated into Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 in
May 1965 and thereafter was R.M.M. in 1973/4.
Several of the brethren from Lodge Lord Bruce attended the meeting and many
congratulations was given by all.
Brethren who took part in the Young Masons 1st Degree on Monday 13th April 2015
Conferring Master Bro. Joe Robb W.S.W.
Bro. R. McLauchlan Bro. D Ure Bro. A Caven Bro. D. Richardson Bro. G. Rennie
Bro. J. Barnes Bro. J. Kernachan Bro. J. Robb Bro. G. Drysdale Bro. W. Paton Bro. J. Quipp
R.W.M. Bro. Matt Harvey places a plaque on the wall presented to 1601 by Lodge Kirkton Hall 1614 to commemorate their 50th Anniversary as a Sponsor Lodge. Lodge Lord Bruce 1601 visited them on the 3rd April 2015 and conferred a 3rd Degree
Monday 30th March 2015
As one of the sponsor Lodges of Lodge Kirkton Hall 1614
and to celebrate their 50th Anniversary R.M.M. Bro. Matt Harvey presented engraved Deacons Wands to
R.W.M. Bro. Jim McLaughlin on behalf of Lodge Lord Bruce 1601
Monday 13th October 2014
R.W.M Bro. Derek Hope 114 presented Bro. John McEwen Tyler P.M. 1601 with his 50 year diploma
also congratulating him was R.W.M. Bro. Paul Heron 1601
Monday 22nd September 2014
R.W.M Bro Paul Heron presents Bro Stuart Learmonth P.M. 13 with his Honorary Members Diploma and 50th Anniversary Tie
Brethren who took part in the Young Masons Degree on Monday 22nd September 2014
Conferring Master: Bro Matt Harvey W.J.W. P.M.
Bro. A Caven Bro. D Richardson Bro. D. Hastie Bro. K Dodd Bro. J Barnes
Bro J. Smith Bro. J Robb Bro. G Rennie Bro. Matt Harvey Bro. R McLauchlan (Candidate) Bro. J. Kernachan Bro. D Ure
9th December 2013
A Degree Team made up of Honorary Members of 1601 conferred the Entered Apprentice
Degree to celebrate the first ever Degree worked in Lodge Lord Bruce in December 1963
Bro. H. Baxter. 178 Bro. D. Fergie.. 1112 Bro. Stuart Hay 178 Bro. T. Walker 272 Bro. R. Gemmill 1186 Bro. Jim Cole 1658
Bro. T. Duncan 1186 Bro. D. O'Neil 374 Bro. G. Preston 272 Bro. P. Heron R.W.M. Bro. F. Winters 1145 Bro. T. Doherty 1186
Brethren who took part in the Young Masons 1st degree Monday 14th October 2013
Conferring Master Bro. Paul Heron W.S.W P.M.
Bro. G. Rennie Bro. D.McIndoe Bro. J. Murray Bro. D. Taylor Bro. J. Smith Bro. M. Harvey
Bro. D Hastie Bro. R. Hastie Bro. P. Heron Bro. D Richardson( candidate) Bro. A Rennie Bro. J. Kernachan. Bro. J. Huston
Bro. Robert Russell P.M. 1601 along with Bro Kirk Rodger R.W.M. 636 and Bro Allan Rennie R.W.M. 1601
with his 50 years service diploma
Bro. Robert Russell along with brethren from his Mother Lodge 636 after receiving his 50 year diploma
On Monday 28th January 2013 R.W.M. Bro. Allan Rennie welcomed Lodge Heart of Midlothian 832
to confer the 2nd Degree..... Lodge 832 was headed by their R.W.M. Bro David Holburn
This picture says it all
Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M. Bro. David Holburn R.W.M. 832 Bro. Allan Rennie R.W.M.
L/Cpl Bro. Tommy Couper presenting a photo to R.W.M. Alan Dale on behalf of Lodge Lord Bruce
Bro. Couper is serving in The Black Watch 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland and after his tour of duty in Afghanistan was assigned to Balmoral during Her Majesty's Stay
The photograph is of Bro. Tommy Couper and his regiment with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth
Young Masons Degree on Monday 24th September 2012
Conferring Master Bro. Allan Rennie W.S.W. M.E.
Young Masons Degree with our newest Entered Apprentice
Bro. Robert Hastie
On Monday26th March 2012 R.W.M. Bro. Alan Dale welcomed a deputation from various lodges throughout the English Constitution to witness the Master Mason Degree on two Fellow Crafts Freemasons
The under 35 degree team who conducted a 2nd Degree in the lodge on Monday 30th January 2012
The degree team was headed by Bro Scott Robertson R.W.M. 1186
R.W.M. Bro. Alan Dale with brethren from America who attended the lodge on Monday 23rd January 2012
Bro. Alex King R.W.M presented Bro. Andrew Fleming P.M. 13 with his Honorary Members Diploma
and Lodge Tie on Monday 14th November 2011
R.W.M. Bro. Alex King presented Bro.Tom Duncan P.M. 1186 and Bro. Tom McAllister I.P.M. 413
with there Honorary Members Diploma & Lodge Tie on Monday 24th October 2011
Young Masons Degree Monday 11th April 2011
Conferring Master Bro. Alan Dale W.S.W. P.M.
Bro. A. Caven Bro. J. Kavanagh Bro. K. Dodd Bro. J. Robb Bro. H. Stubbs
Bro.A. Rennie Bro.G. Drysdale Bro.A. Dale Bro.T. Cooper E.A. Bro.D. McIndoe Bro.J. Murray Bro.D. Taylor
Conferring Master Bro. Alan Dale W.S.W. P.M. welcomes 1601 newest Entered Apprentice Bro. Tommy Cooper into the Lodge. Bro. Cooper is a member of the armed forces serving in: The Royal Regiment of Scotland . 3 Scots . Black Watch at present in Fort George.
Just like one of our other brethren Bro. Graham Thomson, Bro. Tommy will in the near future be doing his tour of duty in Afghanistan. Bro. Tommy is hopeful it may be nearer the end of the year in order for him to receive his 2nd and 3rd Degrees.
No matter when, 1601 is very proud of both our brethren and wherever they serve our country, we wish them well.
Bro. Alan Dale W.S.W P.M. 6092 Worthy Master Bro. Richard Brown 6092 Bro. Robert Clements P.M. 1601
On the 6th September 2010 Bro Alan Dale W.S.W. P.M. along with Bro. Robert Clements P.M. visited
Lodge of St Peter 6092 Province of Bedfordshire (Bro. Alan's Mother Lodge) on this occassion it was the
last meeting of Bro Richard Brown Worthy Master
 Bro Albert Crooks and R.W.M. Bro. Philip Devitt |
 Display Cabinet of Bro John Crooks P.M. 1601 First initiate R.W.M.
|
Two Brethren from Lodge Scotia Glasgow 178 who were made Honorary Members on Saturday 25th September 2010
Bro. James Thomson R.W.M. 178 R.W.M. Bro Philip Devitt 1601 Bro Stephen Glover P.M. 178
R.W.M. Bro. Philip Devitt gives Bro. Graham Thomson M.M. 1601 ( with his new lodge regalia) a warm welcome back in to the lodge after his tour in Afghanistan
 Proud father Bro George Thomson I.G. enjoys a pint with his son Graham at the Lodge Harmony
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 First to the bar Bro Graham Thomson for his free pint of Belhaven as promised by the brethren of 1601 |
Our visiting brothers from Lodge of St Peter 6092
Bro. Alex King W.S.W. and the young mason who worked a 1st Degree on Saturday 10th April 2010
Bro. Tony Caven Bro. Alan Dale Bro. Henry Stubbs
Bro. George Thomson Bro. Allan Rennie Bro. Alex King W.S.W. Bro. Gordon Rennie Bro. Joe Robb
On Monday 25th January 2010 R.W.M. Bro Philip Devitt presented to Bro John Clarkson Architect with his,
Diploma of Distinguished Service Membership in token of appreciation of his long and faithful service to the lodge
Diploma of Distinguished Service Membership in token of appreciation of his long and faithful service to the lodge
Bro. John Clarkson
On Monday 23rd November 2009 Bro. Philip Devitt R.W.M. presented Bro John Clarkson with the Almoners Jewel.
Brother John Clarkson has been the Lodge Almoner for 21 years and reluctanly he had to retire from the post this year due to family health reasons.
Such is John's enthusiasm for the craft at our recent installation he was installed as Lodge Architect a post that can allow him to spend a bit more time at home.
Bro. John Clarkson holds quite a unique record in freemsonary, being the longest ever serving Almoner in 1601.
In 2001 in his mother lodge of 1601 after 14 years of loyal service to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire he was presented with the jewel of Provincial Grand Senior Warden by the then Provincial Grand Master Bro Gavin McDonald.
John is the first brother in the history of Lodge Lord Bruce to have achieved this high position. He also has the proud record of being the first Brother in the history of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire to have achieved this honour having never been a Past Master
The brethren of Lodge Lord Bruce hold Brother John Clarkson in high esteem and look forward to seeing him come about the lodge for many years to come.
Brother John Clarkson has been the Lodge Almoner for 21 years and reluctanly he had to retire from the post this year due to family health reasons.
Such is John's enthusiasm for the craft at our recent installation he was installed as Lodge Architect a post that can allow him to spend a bit more time at home.
Bro. John Clarkson holds quite a unique record in freemsonary, being the longest ever serving Almoner in 1601.
In 2001 in his mother lodge of 1601 after 14 years of loyal service to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire he was presented with the jewel of Provincial Grand Senior Warden by the then Provincial Grand Master Bro Gavin McDonald.
John is the first brother in the history of Lodge Lord Bruce to have achieved this high position. He also has the proud record of being the first Brother in the history of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Linlithgowshire to have achieved this honour having never been a Past Master
The brethren of Lodge Lord Bruce hold Brother John Clarkson in high esteem and look forward to seeing him come about the lodge for many years to come.
Bro. Graham George Thomson M.M. 1601
The brethren of Lodge Lord Bruce were delighted to welcome back Bro Graham Thomson into the lodge after his Tour of Duty in Afghanistan. Unfortunately Bro Graham's return is just as the lodge goes into recess and before we re-open in September Graham will be serving in Germany, then back of to Afghanistan. From everyone in the Lodge we wish him well and look forward to him returning home safe and sound and wearing his new lodge regalia back in 1601.
On 28th February Graham finished 56th in Hesco Half Marathon in camp Bastion Afghanistan with a time of 1hr 33mins. A fantastic time under such terrible conditions There was 500 soldiers who started the race representing countries from America, Denmark Estonian and all three services from the British Army.
To Graham and all the competitors well done lads and everyone back home is very proud of you.
Graham is 22 years old and a Master Mason of 1601 and the son of Bro. George Thomson the Lodge Inner Guard
Bro Graham is a SAPPER with the Royal Engineers
It is quite amazing the interest Brethren from other lodges have asked me about Graham. On my visits to other lodges I am quite proud when a brother asks how is Graham doing, not only as a freemason but as a soldier serving our country overseas While Graham is, at the present time home on leave, it will not be long before he returns for duty and we will be corresponding with e mails and keeping you up to date with his activities (Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M.)
On 28th February Graham finished 56th in Hesco Half Marathon in camp Bastion Afghanistan with a time of 1hr 33mins. A fantastic time under such terrible conditions There was 500 soldiers who started the race representing countries from America, Denmark Estonian and all three services from the British Army.
To Graham and all the competitors well done lads and everyone back home is very proud of you.
Graham is 22 years old and a Master Mason of 1601 and the son of Bro. George Thomson the Lodge Inner Guard
Bro Graham is a SAPPER with the Royal Engineers
It is quite amazing the interest Brethren from other lodges have asked me about Graham. On my visits to other lodges I am quite proud when a brother asks how is Graham doing, not only as a freemason but as a soldier serving our country overseas While Graham is, at the present time home on leave, it will not be long before he returns for duty and we will be corresponding with e mails and keeping you up to date with his activities (Bro. Charlie Rogerson P.M.)
A well travelled Brother from 1601 is Bro. Alex Wright having visited many lodges throughtout the world Here Alex is visiting Carstairs Lodge No. 20 Alberta Canada in April 2009 along with 3 other Scots Bro. John Renfrew Lodge Roman Eagle 160
Bro Alex Wright 1601 Bro. Ian Galbraith P.M. Liberty Lodge 419
Bro Alex Wright 1601 Bro. Ian Galbraith P.M. Liberty Lodge 419
A Visit to Lodge Elgin and Bruce in 2001
In 2001 Bro James Millar the then R.W.M. headed a large deputaion from Lodge Lord Bruce to Lodge Elgin and Bruce 1077 a lodge that is well worth a visit.
The photograph taken on that visit includes the Reigning Masters who attended the meeting that evening with second from the right being the late Bro John Herbison P.M. 1658 and H.M. of 1601
The photograph taken on that visit includes the Reigning Masters who attended the meeting that evening with second from the right being the late Bro John Herbison P.M. 1658 and H.M. of 1601
