News from 2015
December 2015:
Tuesday 8th: Our newly installed RWM Bro Barry McCulloch conducted his first meeting since being installed. As there was no degree being conferred, the business was conducted in short order. RWM Bro Barry paid handsome compliments to all who had assisted in making his Installation a rousing success. After the meeting was closed, all retired to the lounge to reminisce about the events of the Installation.
Saturday 5th: The Annual Installation of our new RWM and Officebearers took place at 5:30pm. RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed the many visitors and thanked them for turning out on such a wild night. His "greetin speech" was thankfully short and the assembled Brethren had no need for their hankies! A distinguished deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Lanarkshire (Middle Ward) headed by Provincial Grand Master Bro Tom Davidson was then received and welcomed, followed by the Installing Masters of the evening Bro Ian Thompson PM and Bro Ian Douglas PM. The Installing Masters delivered an excellent Installation Ceremony which was warmly received by the new RWM Bro Barry McCulloch, his Officebearers and all Brethren present. Afterwards, all retired to an excellent dinner and spent a very pleasant evening listening to some well prepared speeches and having a right good blether with one another. As a wee surprise, the Ladies brought in a wee birthday cake, and the entire company sang 'Happy Birthday' to PGM Bro Tom Davidson (he was 21 again!). In the wee hours of the next morning, they were again in good voice and sang happy birthday to (the now IPM) Bro Jim Finlay. Our new RWM Bro Barry hopes that the rest of his year will be as successful as the Installation, and he sends an early Christmas Greeting to all of our readers.
November 2015:
Tuesday 24th: On this the last regular meeting of his year as Master, RWM Bro Jim Finlay warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Clydesdale No.551 headed by their RWM Bro Robert Clark. The linkage between the two lodges goes back 40 years and the Brethren of both Lodges had looked forward to this visit. RWM Bro Robert Clark, assisted by a superb degree team, proceeded to give an excellent exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Robert on the high standard of work of the degree team and specially complimented the Tools lecture of Bro Ross Forrest who had just given the very first lecture of his Masonic career. The Brethren all retired together to harmony and the linkage uniting the two Lodges was again strengthened, with much blethering and soft drinks.
Thursday 12th: RWM led his last deputation of 2015 into Lodge Lockhart St.John, Carnwath No.248 to confer a full MM degree. The deputation was warmly welcomed by RWM Bro Ian Abernethy who indicated that he, his Brethren, and even the candidate were looking forward to the the work of 1096. The MM degree was then conferred by RWM Bro Jim Finlay ably assisted by JD Bro Scott McKittrick PM, WJW Bro Willie Jackson PM and WSW Bro Barry McCulloch. RWM Bro Ian Abernethy, having previously told the Brethren of 248 to expect a great degree, then congratulated the degree team on an excellent working of the MM degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked RWM Bro Ian for his kind words, and all of the Brethren retired to harmony once more to strengthen the linkage between the two Lodges.
Tuesday 10th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the Annual General Meeting. The customary business was conducted and the Statement of Accounts was passed. The election of Office Bearers for the coming twelve months took place, sadly leaving two offices vacant. At the conclusion of the meeting, RWM congratulated all of the newly elected Office bearers and wished them well in the year ahead.
Tuesday 3rd: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a large deputation to Lodge Clydesdale No.551 to confer an exemplification of the EA degree, accompanied by RWM of Lodge Hamilton No.233 Bro Kenny McVicar and several 233 Brethren. RWM Bro Robert Clark gave a warm welcome to the deputation, and indicated that he was looking forward to the degree exemplification. The degree was conferred much to the satisfaction of RWM Bro Robert and he praised the degree team for their labours, and called on his WSW to propose the vote of thanks. RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked WSW Bro David for his kind remarks, and thanked all who had accompanied him with particular mention of JD Bro Scott McKittrick PM, WSW Bro Barry McCulloch and SD Bro Tom Gilfillan who had carried out the bulk of the degree. The Brethren then retired to a very pleasant evening in harmony, and reinforced the long and strong linkage of friendship between both Lodges.
October 2015:
Tuesday 27th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Airdrie St.John No.166 headed by their RWM Bro Keith Mitchell. This was the first official visit of Lodge Airdrie St.John to 1096, and was much anticipated by the Brethren of both Lodges. The anticipation was well rewarded with a superb exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Keith on the very high standard of work of the degree team and as a marker for this inaugural inter-visit, made RWM Bro Keith Mitchell a Honorary Member of Lodge Murdostoun Castle. RWM Bro Keith (not known for being stumped for words) expressed his delight at the honour and thanked RWM Bro Jim Finlay and the brethren of 1096. Harmony enabled all the Brethren to strengthen the newly formed ties between the Lodges and the use of the trowel was much in evidence.
Wednesday 21st: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led Lodge Murdostoun Castles first official deputation to Lodge Airdrie St.John No.166 to confer an exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Keith Mitchell gave a warm welcome to the deputation, especially as this was the first official visit. The degree was conducted entirely to the satisfaction of RWM Bro Keith and he praised the degree team for their labours and remarked on the close similarity of the FC degree of both Lodges.. RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked all who had accompanied him with particular mention of his Wardens, WSW Bro Barry McCulloch and WJW Bro Wille Jackson PM who had carried out the bulk of the degree. He also complimented Bro David Thompson of 166 who had volunteered to be candidate for the ceremony and reminded all present that in these difficult times for Freemasonry, without the volunteer services of brethren like Bro David, visitations between Lodges would suffer greatly. RWM Bro Allan Hutton of Lodge Caldercruix St.John No.1314, at the request of RWM Bro Keith Mitchel commented on the ceremonial work, and was most complimentary. On behalf of the degree team, RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked RWM Bro Keith Mitchell and RWM Bro Allan Hutton for their kind remarks. The Brethren then retired to a very pleasant evening in harmony, and a new linkage of friendship between the Lodges was cemented.
Tuesday 20th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed a very small but dedicated band to the Special meeting. He then warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge St.John, Carulke No.187 headed by their RWM Bro John Stewart. RWM Bro John Stewart, with the assistance of his Officebearers, proceeded to give an superb exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro John on the high standard of the degree performed by Bro John and his degree team, and invited all to harmony as the meeting closed. Harmony was enjoyed by the brethren of both lodges (as always) and the links which unite us were strengthened.
Tuesday 13th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Dura No.1513 headed by their RWM Bro Martin Halliday. RWM Bro Martin Halliday, with the assistance of his Officebearers, proceeded to give an excellent exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Martin on the very high quality of the degree conferred, with particular mention of the superb contribution to the degree by the Officebearers, and invited all to harmony as the meeting closed. Bro Peter Walker of 1096 was warmly thanked for volunteering to be the candidate for the degree. After a wee bite to eat, the Brethren of both Lodges resorted to their customary habit of blethering, thus strengthening the ties between the Lodges.
Thursday 8th : RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge Woodhall St.Johns No.305 to confer an exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Colin Gowrie gave a warm welcome to the deputation and indicated how much he was looking forward to witnessing another excellent degree from 1096. The degree was conducted entirely to the satisfaction of RWM Bro Colin and he praised the degree team for their labours. RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked all who had accompanied him with particular mention of PM Bro Scott McKittrick and WSW Bro Barry McCulloch who had carried out the bulk of the degree. He also paid compliment to Bro Ian Ross of 305 who had been the candidate for the ceremony and reminded all present that in these difficult times for Freemasonry, without the volunteer services of brethren like Bro Ian Ross, visitations between Lodges would suffer greatly. Stepping off his soapbox, RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked RWM Bro Colin Gowrie for the gift of a 305 Lodge tie. The brethren of both Lodges then retired to a very pleasant evening in harmony, with soft drinks and blethers all round.
September 2015:
Tuesday 22nd : RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed a small but dedicated band to the second meeting in September. He then warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Bishopbriggs No.1259 headed by their RWM Bro Malcolm Murray. RWM Bro Malcolm Murray, with the assistance of his Officebearers, proceeded to give an superb exemplification of the EA degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Malcolm on the excellence of the degree performed by Bro Malcolm and his degree team, and invited all to harmony as the meeting closed. An especial vote of thanks to Bro Ian Ross, a member of Lodge Woodhall St.Johns No.305 who had volunteered to be the candidate for the ceremony. A generous offer, very much appreciated by all. Harmony was, as always, a wee bite to eat and a lot of chat! The relatively recent linkage between the two Lodges was much strengthened.
And now for an out of sequence item, but one which is important to every Brother in the Lodge:
The Lodge sponsors the Endeavour Trophy at both Primary Schools in the village (see the explanation of "Endeavour" on the Endeavour Trophy page of our website).
RWM Bro Jim Finlay was invited to be a guest at the presentation in Cleland Primary School at the end of term in June.
Normally, no details of the pupils who are awarded this shield are published. However, RWM Bro Jim Finlay has recently obtained the permission of Mr Jim McPhail to allow his daughters photo to be published here for the next few months. RWM has also recently spoken with Sophie herself and she is loving her time at High School. Long may that continue.
We all wish her every success.
The Photo shows Sophie with the Endeavour Shield on the day of presentation. The auld guy in the photo is the RWM!!
Friday 11th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay accompanied PGM Bro Tom Davidson and several other Brethren to Firpark Primary School where Bro Tom was presenting a cheque for £2,500 from the PGL Annual Charity Appeal Fund. The deputation was given a comprehensive tour of the excellent School facilties by Mrs Webster ( the dedicated and devoted Head Teacher ), and met several members of staff and many of the pupils. Each staff member was so enthusiastic about the role which each played in the support, encouragement and overall growth of the pupils. Such enthusiasm is humbling to those of us who stand on the sidelines and watch. Would that many more of us could learn from experiencing such a visit.
PGM Bro Tom Davidson at the presentation. Mrs Webster (Head Teacher) on the left of the photo
Photo courtesy of PGM Bro Tom Davidson.
Tuesday 8th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the first meeting after recess, with an especial welcome to Bro John McGill PM Depute Master of Lodge Fish Hoek No.1390 from Vlaeberg, South Africa. He then warmly welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Lockhart St.John, Carnwath No.248 headed by their RWM Bro Ian Abernethy and accompanied by RWM Bro Andrew Rutherford of Lodge Biggar Free Operatives No.167. RWM Bro Ian Abernethy, with the assistance of his Officebearers, proceeded to give an excellent exemplification of the MM degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Ian on the high quality of the degree conferred, and invited all to harmony as the meeting closed. Bro John McGill PM also commented on the degree work and how instructive it had been for him. A most generous compliment indeed. Harmony was much enjoyed by all Brethren and with a great deal of blethering, the recently formed ties between the lodges were strengthened.
Friday 4th: Just before the second half of the year opened, Lodge Dura Allanton No.1513 hosted a FC degree carried out by WSWs of seven Lodges. Our own WSW Bro Barry McCulloch took part acting as SD and Secrets lecturer for the degree. The team worked an excellent rendering of the FC degree and were all complimented by RWM of 1513 Bro Martin Halliday. Bro Halliday asked our own RWM Bro Jim Finlay to comment on the degree work. RWM Bro Jim likewise complimented the whole team on their combined efforts and expressed his delight at being able to sit back, relax and watch as the degree unfolded. He added that, if the degree as just witnessed was an indicator of the quality of lecturing during the coming year, seven Lodges will be in good hands. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and congratulations were heaped upon the degree team.
The Magnificent Seven with their candidate.
Photo by RWM Bro Jim Finlay.
From the left - Bro Sam Haycock PM, WSW Lodge St.Clair Cambusnethan No.427; Bro Robert Spaulding PM, WSW Lodge St.Andrew Livingston Station No.1587; Bro Gordon Sharp WSW Lodge St.John Mid Calder No.272; Bro Alan Graham WSW Lodge Dura Allanton No.1513; the candidate Bro Alan John Brown Graham, the son and now Brother of WSW Alan Graham; Bro Mark Rhind WSW Lodge Mauldslie Castle No.1630; Bro Barry McCulloch WSW Lodge Murdostoun Castle No.1096; Bro Jamie Ellis WSW (and Master Elect) Lodge Hopebridge Castle No.827
June 2015:
The Roll of Past Masters has had some serious attention during recess. By diligent examination of Lodge Minute books, all Officebearers therein recorded have now been identified, and all are now added to the appropriate page.
Each entry where the Masters' name is underlined has a page detailing the known Officebearers. Those in Italics have no photograph (yet).
From 1911 to 1964 no photographs have been available to webmaster (other than 1946 & 1947).
From 1965 onwards photographs are in place (except years 1968, 1984, 1996, 1999, 2001 & 2002).
If any of our readers know of the whereabouts of any of the missing photographs, webmaster will be happy to borrow them long enough to scan and insert into the appropriate web page.
Please feel free to have a browse around. Depending on your own age you might recognise some of the names in the earlier years!
May 2015:
Friday 15th: In the absence of RWM Bro Jim Finlay who had been in hospital with pneumonia, IPM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to a Special Meeting which was for the purpose of hosting a team of Reigning Masters who would be conferring an exemplification of the EA degree.
Obituary: IPM Bro Ian Thompson gave a short account of the masonic career of our illustrious Past Master Bro John Wood PSPGM PPGSW who had sadly passed to Eternal refreshment and the Brethren held a minutes silence. Bro John was a Mason without equal and his passing leaves both his family and the Lodge bereft of a good and honest man. For those who knew Bro John, remember him for all that he has meant to you. We shall not see his like again.
IPM Bro Ian Thompson then welcomed a deputation of Reigning Masters from both Lanarkshire Middle and Upper Wards and from Glasgow Province. They were headed by RWM Bro Gary Muircroft from Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919 who proceeded to confer the EA degree on the candidate (Bro Ryan Douglas - who volunteered!) assisted by the following Brethren:-
RWM Bro Colin Gowrie of Lodge Woodhall St.Johns No.305 who received the candidate into the Lodge; RWM Bro Willie Allison of Lodge Mauldslie Castle No.1630 who obligated the candidate; RWM Bro Jack Alexander of Lodge St.John, Shotts No.471 who conferred the Mode, Penalty and Lights; PM Bro Ian Anderson of Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228 who conferred the Words, Grip & Sign (substituting for RWM Bro Alan Nightingale whose Dad had just been admitted to hospital); RWM Bro Gary Muircroft of Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919 who conferred the Apron Lecture; RWM Bro Malcolm Murray of Lodge Bishopbriggs No.1259 who conferred the Tools Lecture; RWM Bro Ken Bogle of Lodge Livingstone St.Andrew No.573 who delivered the North East Corner lecture; RWM Bro John Stewart of Lodge St.John, Carluke No.187 who delivered the final charge. The other offices were filled by the following Reigning Masters : WSW RWM Bro Alex Fenton of Lodge St.Mary, Coltness No.31 (who also filled in as Chaplain); WJW RWM Bro Robert Clark of Lodge Clydesdale No.551; SD RWM Bro Keith Mitchell of Lodge Airdrie St.John No.166; JD RWM Bro Ian Abernethy of Lodge Lockhart St.John, Carnwath No.248; IG RWM Bro Martin Halliday of Lodge Dura No.1513.
IPM Bro Ian Thompson thanked all the Reigning Masters, congratulated them on a job well done, and invited everyone present to partake of Lodge hospitality.
As the degree had been conferred by RWMs from 3 provinces, it was fitting that a Bro from a 4th province (Dumfriesshire) should comment on the degree. PM Bro David Bell of Lodge St.Andrew Annan No.1443 (an honorary member of Lodge Murdostoun Castle) warmly congratulated the Reigning Masters on conferring an excellent degree, and said that it was one of the finest he had had the pleasure of witnessing.
That being all the business of the evening, all retired to harmony and the relaxation that comes after a good job, well done.
The members of the Superb Degree team!
In the photograph (courtesy of PM Bro Scott McKittrick) from left to right are :-
RWM Bro Keith Mitchell, PM Bro Ian Anderson, RWM Bro Gary Muircroft, RWM Bro Colin Gowrie, RWM Bro John Stewart, RWM Bro Martin Halliday, RWM Bro Alex Fenton, RWM Bro Robert Clark, RWM Bro Willie Allison, RWM Bro Malcolm Murray, RWM Bro Ken Bogle, RWM Bro Ian Abernethy, RWM Bro Jack Alexander and IPM Bro Ian Thompson.
April 2015:
Tuesday 28th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the last regular meeting before recess. He then warmly welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge St. John, Shotts No.471 headed by their RWM Bro Jack Alexander, and accompanied by RWM Bro Alan Nightingale of Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228. RWM Bro Jack Alexander, with the assistance of his Officebearers, proceeded to give an excellent exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay congratulated RWM Bro Jack on the high quality of the degree conferred, and invited all to harmony as the meeting closed.After a wee bite to eat, the Brethren of both Lodges resorted to their customary habit of blethering, thus strengthening the ties between the Lodges.
Saturday 25th: The Casino Night was a roaring success. The adults enjoyed trying their hand at Roulette and Blackjack, whilst the youngsters played with the Wheel of Fortune. The evening started in fine fashion with an absolutely superb spread of food provided by Fay, Alison and Trevor. That got the company in relaxed mood and ready for the playing instructions given by Stephen and Eileen from Nevada Nights Fun Casino. With the fun money provided to every person who attended, which was then cashed into chips, the play began. And for the next few hours some strange betting systems were in action. At the end of the evening, the adult winner with the greatest accumulation of fun dollars was Barry McCulloch and the junior winner was Jack Gilfillan. RWM Jim Finlay thanked all who had attended, thanked Fay and Alison and Trevor for the terrific meal they provided. Everyone agreed that it was a great night and needed to be repeated. If you want to have a similar function then contact info@nevadanights.co.uk or go to their website by clicking on this link www.nevadanights.co.uk
Monday 20th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228 to confer an exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Alan Nightingale gave a warm welcome to the deputation and indicated how much he was looking forward to another excellent degree from 1096 (No pressure there then!!). The degree was entirely to RWM Bro Alans expectations and he praised the degree team for their labours. RWM Bro Jim Finlay thanked all who had accompanied him with particular mention of PM Bro Scott McKittrick and PM Bro Willie Jackson. The brethren of both Lodges then retired to a very pleasant evening in harmony, with soft drinks and blethers all round.
Thursday 16th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge St.Mary, Coltness No.31 to confer an exemplification of the FC degree. RWM Bro Alex Fenton warmly welcomed the deputation and at the completion of the degree, lavished high praise on the degree team for the excellence of their labours with especial mention of WSW Bro Barry McCulloch. His comments were well received by brethren of both Lodges. RWM Bro Jim thanked all who had accompanied him, and the Office bearers who had stepped in to various offices on the evening. At the close of the meeting, the Brethren all retired to Lodge harmony, and the evening passed in the customary harmony and blethers.
Tuesday 14th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the first meeting in April. He warmly welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Mauldslie Castle No.1630 headed by their RWM Bro Willie Allison, who, assisted by his Officebearers, proceeded to give a fine exemplification of the MMM degree to the delight of all at the meeting. Harmony followed, with much blethering as the Brethren of both Lodges joined in harmony, thus strengthening the ties between the Lodges.
Wednesday 1st: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge Dura No.1513 to confer an exemplification of the EA degree. RWM Bro Martin Halliday warmly welcomed the deputation and at the completion of the degree, lavished high praise on the degree team for the excellence of their labours, which was well received by brethren of both Lodges. RWM Bro Jim thanked all who had accompanied him, and the Office bearers who had stepped in to various offices on the evening. At the close of the meeting, the Brethren all retired to Lodge harmony, and the evening passed in the customary harmony and blethers.
March 2015:
Friday 27th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge St.John, Shotts No.471 to confer an exemplification of the EA degree. RWM Bro Jack Alexander warmly welcomed the visitation and at the completion of the degree, praised the degree team for the excellence of their labours, which was much appreciated by the Brethren. RWM Bro Jim thanked all who had accompanied him, and the Office bearers who had stepped in to various offices on the evening. The linkage between the Lodges was much strengthened in the warm convivial surroundings of Lodge harmony, and the evening passed in the customary harmony and blethers .
Tuesday 24th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the second meeting in March. He warmly welcomed a very large and distinguished deputation from Lodge St. Thomas, Larkhall No.306 headed by their RWM Bro George Leggate, who, assisted by his Officebearers, proceeded to give a superb exemplification of the EA degree to the delight of everyone present. Harmony followed, with many convivial conversations, thus strengthening the ties between the Brethren of both Lodges. Before closing the meeting, RWM Bro Jim Finlay brought to the attention of the Brethren, that the new portrait of Her Majesty was now in place in the East of the Lodge. He requested Bro Secretary to minute the thanks of the Lodge to Bro Bert Alcorn PM for sourcing the portrait and for generously donating one third of the cost of having the portrait beautifully framed.
Tuesday 10th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the first meeting in March. After the regular business of the Lodge had been completed, he then welcomed a distinguished deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Lanarkshire (Middle Ward) headed by RWSPGM Bro Stephen Campbell and accompanied by RWPGM Bro Tom Davidson. As this was the annual visit of Provincial Grand Lodge, the working of Lodge Secretary and Treasurer were commented on, and both brethren were warmly congratulated for the excellence of their handing of Lodge affairs. IPM Bro Ian Thompson was also congratulated on his handling of the Lodge during his term of office. Prior to the exemplification of the EA degree, RWM Bro Jim Finlay presented IPM Bro Ian Thompson firstly with his refurbished Past Master jewel which had been enhanced to highlight Bro Ians 5 terms as Master of the Lodge. DOC Bro Derek Douglas PM then formally presented IPM Bro Ian Thompson to RWM Bro Jim Finlay who gave a short discourse on Bro Ians Masonic career and then presented Bro Ian with a certificate of Distinguished Membership. Despite being somewhat surprised by the events just unfolded, Bro Ian managed to say a few(?) words of thanks in response. This surprised no-one as Bro Ian is NOT renowned for being quiet!! Thereafter, the assembled Brethren were treated to an excellent exemplification of the EA degree by the Lodge Officebearers and the quality of the degree was commented on by Bro John Calderwood PM (Member of Provincial Grand Committee). After the close of the meeting, all retired to a pleasant time in harmony.
Saturday 7th: The much awaited QUIZ night brought many of Scotlands Masterminds together for a fun filled evening. Fun filled that is only if you knew the answers!! Quizmaster Jim Wilson had some weird questions to ask, and got some even weirder answers in response! The quiz was eventually won by the team headed by Bro Joe Short who pipped PMs Cathcart and McKittrick by the narrowest of margins (OK then, by 4 points!). Much blethering followed, and those who didn't manage to attend missed a great night. Thanks to Alex and Trevor Douglas for organising the event (and managing to NOT burn the pies!). I think that a repeat quiz night is in order.
Thursday 5th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led a deputation to Lodge Livingstone St.Andrew No.573. RWM Bro Ken Bogle warmly welcomed the visitation and at the completion of the exemplification of the FC degree, praised the degree team for the excellence of their labours, which was well received by brethren of both Lodges. RWM Bro Jim thanked all who had accompanied him, and the Office bearers who had stepped in to various offices on the evening. He made special mention of his pride in the superb work of Bro Scott McKittrick PM, WSW Bro Barry McCulloch, WJW Bro Willie Jackson PM and SD Bro Tom Gilfillan who, between them, had carried out most of the degree. After the Lodge was closed, all retired to the customary harmony and blethers and another evening passed in warm and convivial company.
February 2015:
Tuesday 24th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the second meeting in February. Enhancing the most welcome visitors on the evening were RWM Bro Gary Muircroft and brethren from Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919. RWM Bro Jim Finlay then welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Motherwelll Caledonian No 1228 headed by their RWM Bro Alan Nightingale, who, with the assistance of his Officebearers delivered an excellent exemplification of the FC degree. This was well received by all of the Brethren present. RWM Bro Alan Nightingale was congratulated on the excellence of the degree work of himself and his team. As is customary and enjoyable, harmony and blethers followed and the Brethren all look forward to meeting again soon. BTW: a wee whisper - which 2 visiting RWMs picked out their own tickets in the raffle?
Friday 20th - Saturday 21st:
Friday 20th February saw yet another successful invasion of England by a dedicated group of 28 Brethren from Lanarkshire led by RWM Bro Jim Finlay. They braved rain and wind and snow storms as they made their way south to Blackpool. Temporarily camped in the Beechfield Hotel, and having been well fed, they made their way to Lodge Ashlar No.5154 where they were warmly welcomed by Worshipful Master Bro Michael Thompson and his Director of Ceremonies Bro Bill Farrington. Taking temporary control of the Lodge, the invaders delivered what, according to the many accolades from our English Brothers, was a superb exemplification of the FC degree. Harmony followed and the invaders were treated to a grand festive board. Toasts were proposed and replies made as old acquaintances were renewed and many new links of fraternal friendship were forged.
Having returned to the Hotel that evening, to the enjoyment of many (and the embarrassment of one!) the Brethren and guests all sang Happy Birthday to PM Bro Jim Cathcart as it was his birthday and he had reached the grand old age of ...(Shhh - it's a secret!!). BTW, he did have enough strength to blow out the candles. There were only a few candles as the Firemaster had warned us about using the full number!
RWM Bro Jim Finlay and a number of the invaders also spent Saturday evening with the Brethren of Saturnian Lodge No.7563. Being once more warmly welcomed by Worshipful Master Bro Hyde, and his DC Bro Bell, the invaders there witnessed a fine MM degree by the Brethren of the Lodge and once again retired to harmony at another excellent festive board. Toasts and replies again ensued, friendships were made and bonds strengthened, with many invitations to 'please return soon'.
As for the Brethren who sampled the Saturday evening delights of Blackpool, all that can be said is "what happens in Blackpool - stays in Blackpool". You know what they say about Masons and secrets! ..... Ssshh!!
Wednesday 18th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led his third visitation of the year to Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919. RWM Bro Gary Muircroft warmly welcomed the deputation. The ceremonial work was an exemplification of the FC degree, and (even though I say it myself) was a superb, and faultless rendition of the degree. RWM Bro Jim Finlay praised each of the degree team for their excellent work, and said just how proud he was of them. A most gracious, and much appreciated, vote of thanks was given by PM Bro Robert Kenney of 919, after which the Lodge was closed and the Brethren of both Lodges retired to harmony and blethers.
Tuesday 10th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed all to the first meeting in February. An interesting item of news for the Lodge was that our revised Bye-Laws had been formally passed by Provincial Grand Lodge and were now effective. He then warmly welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Woodhall St. Johns No.305 headed by their RWM Bro Colin Gowrie, who, assisted by some of the "weel kent faces" in 305, proceeded with a full and comprehensive exemplification of the EA degree. This was much appreciated by the Brethren of both Lodges and RWM Bro Colin Gowrie was congratulated on the standard of his degree work. Harmony followed and the ties between the Lodges were further strengthened.
January 2015:
Saturday 31st: On a snell winters evening, a "warm, reekin, rich" aroma of Haggis 'n Neeps 'n Tatties drifted out of the kitchen to greet all to the Lodge Annual Burns Supper. As Chairman for the evening, RWM Bro Jim Finlay gave a warm welcome to everyone and hoped they would all enjoy the dinner and entertainment of the evening.
The Haggis was piped in by Ryan Douglas (oor bonny wee piper!), carried by Jack Gilfillan (much to his surprise, being asked by his Dad at the last minute! Oops!) and addressed and toasted by the Chairman. Ryans dad Ian gave the Selkirk grace and all sat down to a sumptuous dinner provided by Gibbs Catering (Danny Gibb is a weel kent wee chef we ken!).
After dinner and the Loyal Toast, the company was entertained in fine style with an excellent Immortal Memory given by David Walker, a raucously entertaining rendition of Tam o' Shanter by Robert Cunningham, and oor ain Ronnie Fleming sang Bonny Wee Thing. Ryan then followed with a Pipe Medley of guid Scots airs and left us all wondering just how he manages to move his fingers so fast!
After a wee break to get glasses recharged, Tommy Johnston then proposed his hilarious Toast to the Lassies. And if the Lassies ever catch him, thats what he'll be - toast! David then gave us Wullie Wassel, and Robert had a' the feet tappin wi' Killiekrankie.
After the vote of thanks, the entire company joined in The Star O' Rabbie Burns and the formal part of the evening drew to a close. Much blethering and consuming of oor national drink followed and a weel fed, weel entertained and pleasantly puggled company returned homeward after a great Burns Supper. Can't wait till next year!!
A wee photo from the evening showing our speakers. From left to right :-
Robert Cunningham, David Walker, RWM Jim Finlay and Tommy Johnston
Tuesday 27th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay welcomed a small but conscientious number of Brethren to the second meeting in January. He then warmly welcomed a very large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919 headed by their RWM Bro Gary Muircroft, who proceeded to give a superb exemplification of the MM degree to the delight of the Brethren of both Lodges. Harmony followed and the ties between the Lodges were again strengthened.
Thursday 22nd: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led his second visitation of the year to Lodge Bishopbriggs No.1259 on yet another cold winter night. And once again, the warmth of the welcome by RWM Bro Malcolm Murray drove all thoughts of cold away. The ceremonial work of the evening was an exemplification of the FC degree and compliments were made and much appreciated by the Brethren of 1096. RWM Bro Jim thanked the Brethren who had accompanied him and made special mention of Bro Scott McKittrick PM and WSW Bro Barry McCulloch for their skills of oratory. After the Lodge was closed, the Brethren of both Lodges enjoyed a convivial evening in each others company.
Monday 19th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay led his first visitation out of 2015 to Lodge Mauldslie Castle No 1630 on a bitterly cold evening. The warmth of the welcome received from RWM Bro Tom Booth was much appreciated, and the exemplification of the FC degree was well received by brethren of both Lodges. RWM Bro Jim thanked all who had accompanied him, and the Office bearers who had stepped in to various offices on the evening. He made special mention of WSW Bro Barry McCulloch who carried out a large part of the degree. After the Lodge was closed, all retired to the customary harmony and blethers!
Tuesday 13th: RWM Bro Jim Finlay held his first meeting of 2015 and welcomed all who attended despite the atrocious weather conditions. The degree conferred was an excellent exemplification of the FC degree by RWM Bro Ken Bogle who headed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Livingstone St.Andrew No.573. Boosting the visitor numbers were RWM Bro Jack Alexander of Lodge St.John Shotts No.471 and RWM Bro Colin Gowrie of Lodge Woodhall St.Johns, Bellshill No.305 and many "weel kent" faces. Bro Jim and Bro Ken having been Masters of their respective Lodges together in 1994, indulged in quite a bit of reminiscing about "the old days". As ever, friendships were strengthened and new ones made.
Thursday 1st January: A new year has begun and we look forward to the many inter-lodge visits scheduled for this year. Going out as a deputation or on ones own to visit Sister Lodges and welcoming all visitors and visiting Lodges in to our Temple is what keeps Freemasonry alive and well. Long may the desire to visit be a strong part of the life of our craft.
News Items from some of 2014 - Website did not exist before September 2014