At the time of writing we are in the fourth month of the current masonic season and I must state that I have been disappointed that during this period a number of resignations of Brethren in the Preston Group have taken place. Without having specific information regarding each one of these, I have assumed that the majority are as a result of the increased per capita dues for Preston Masonic Hall, which together with the increases in dues imposed by United Grand Lodge, have necessitated subsequent increases in Lodge subscriptions. In Preston the average basic Lodge subscription is currently approximately £150 per annum, and I would ask Brethren to analyse carefully to what this subscription entitles. In addition to his own Lodge; a brother is welcome to visit Lodges for six days per week, for around nine months of the year in practically any city, town or village in the UK and also in many parts of the world. This is in addition to the very many other privileges of membership of the Craft; therefore I would ask Brethren to seriously consider these points before resigning.

During this period we have had two splendid amalgamation ceremonies, firstly Ingol Lodge of St. Margaret and Olympia and secondly Ribbleton and Priory Lodges. The Provincial Grand Master and the Deputy Provincial Grand Master carried out the respective ceremonies. These ceremonies for the present complete what has been a considerable period of change in the Preston Group with the number of Lodges now down to 24 from 34 in the past two years. From my experience all the amalgamations have been successful with the Brethren of the respective Lodges fully integrating. However it continues to be necessary for Lodges to look forward to the future.

One Lodge in the Preston Group has committed itself to move its meetings away from Preston Masonic Hall, and I would take this opportunity to wish the Lodge well at their new venue.

In early October, W.Bro.Eric Smith celebrated his Golden Anniversary in Halcyon Lodge, with the Assistant Provincial Grand Master officiating at the meeting. Eric is another great example of a loyal and dedicated freemason. Although blind, Eric hardly ever misses a meeting of his Lodge or Chapter, and it is also credit to the members of his Lodge and Chapter who transport him to and from his home. Eric was delighted at the support he received at the anniversary meeting, particularly from his former work colleagues at Norweb.

We have many members in the Preston Group who have had interesting vocations and I intend to arrange for details of some of these to be featured on the Preston Group website. On the website there is currently an article featuring W.Bro.Harry Yeadon of Lodge Amounderness, who was County Bridge Master during the time that the motorway system was being developed in the North West of England.

I am looking forward to the Preston Group Carol Service that will take place on Sunday 11th December at Christ Church Fulwood. I trust that we receive substantial support at the service. I must thank W.Bro.Ian Cuerden, our Group Treasurer for all the arrangements he has made in compiling the Order of Service and organising the choir.

For the forthcoming Festive Season, Gwynneth joins me in wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Continue to enjoy your freemasonry.

Ian Greenwood
Chairman

 

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