News from 2019
The links to years 2014 through to 2020 are after the following months of 2019 - Click on the link which interests you - the Year pages link to each other to make browsing easier.
December 2019
Monday 23rd: With heavy hearts the Brethren of the Lodge intimate the sudden and unexpected passing of our RWM Bro William Napier on Sunday evening 22nd December 2019. A brother so happily looking forward to once again reigning as our RWM. Planning his year, inviting lots of lodges, and attending so many other Lodges just to be a visitor. His courage at taking on this responsibility and his joy at being our RWM was infectious. A much loved and respected Brother gone home to Glory. A domestic accident, so simple and so tragic. His family are bereft of a good and honest man. Our Masonic world is just so much poorer without him. Details of his funeral will be posted here when they are known. The delay is due to the mandatory Post Mortem not being held until Friday 10th January 2020. Only then can his family make the arrangements. 15 days - how short a reign.
Friday 20th: The Annual Christmas Draw took place tonight resulting in 22 happy folks getting a wee surprise before Christmas. Thanks to all who donated the prizes, and to all who sold tickets. Seemed to be a successful venture as Bro Treasurer went home with a big smile on his face despite not winning any prizes himself! A tip for next year - buy your tickets from Scott Murdoch - his players won 6 (yes SIX) prizes.
Tuesday 10th: The last regular meeting of 2019 was reasonably well attended despite being a business only meeting. As Installing Master Bro Jim Finlay installed two of the office bearers who had been unable to attend the Installation. Nothing of importance was raised in any other business apart from enhancing the Installation collection to £300. RWM wished all Brethren a Merry Christmas and gave his best wishes for the coming year.
Saturday 7th: The Annual Installation of our new RWM and Officebearers took place at 5:30pm. RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed the many visitors and thanked them for coming to the Installation. A Distinguished deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Lanarkshire (Middle Ward) headed by Substitute Provincial Grand Master Bro Alexander R Kelly was then received and welcomed, followed by the Installing Masters of the evening Bro Ian Douglas PM and Bro Jim Finlay PM. The Installing Masters delivered an excellent Installation Ceremony which was warmly received by the new (recycled!) RWM Bro William Napier, 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. This is the second time Bro William Napier has graced the chair of our Lodge, this time after a gap of some 31 years. His courage knows no bounds! All have pledged to support him and the esteem in which we all hold him is perfectly clear. As our new RWM, Bro Napier 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.
A photo of the Key players of the evening.
Left to right : RWIM Bro Jim Finlay, RWM Bro William Napier, RWIM Bro Ian Douglas, SPGM Bro Alexander R Kelly. Photo courtesy of Bro Jim Finlay PM.
November
Tuesday 26th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to his last regular meeting. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Mauldslie Castle No.1630 headed by their RWM Bro Iain Morrison who, assisted by his degree team, conferred and excellent exemplification of the FC degree on volunteer candidate Bro Mark Logan. At the conclusion of the ceremony, RWM Bro Iain Morrison congratulated Bro Logan, thanked him for volunteering, and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson, who likewise thanked him and presented him to the assembled Brethren. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and much chat and reminiscing ensued as the links joining the two lodges grew ever stronger.
Tuesday 12th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the Annual Meeting. The customary business was conducted and following the Report on Lodge Finances by Bro Treasurer, the Statement of Accounts was passed. The election of Office Bearers for the coming twelve months took place happily this year with no vacant offices. At the conclusion of the meeting, RWM congratulated all of the newly elected Office bearers and wished them well in the year ahead. The Office Bearers Elect are:- RWM Bro Willie Napier PM, WSW Bro Willie Jackson PM, WJW Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Secretary Bro Jim Finlay PM, Treasurer Bro Ian Douglas PM, Almoner Bro David Craig PM, SD Bro Ryan Douglas, JD Bro Scott Murdoch, IG Bro Mark Logan, Chaplain Bro Iain Logan, DoC Bro Jim Cathcart PM, President of Stewards Bro Duncan McBride, Junior Steward Bro Scott Anderson, Bible Bearer Bro Derek Davidson, Organist Bro Frazer Douglas, Tyler Bro Bert Alcorn PM.
Wednesday 6th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson headed a deputation to Lodge Dura No.1513 accompanied by 15 other Brethren. After being welcomed by RWM Bro Alan Graham and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Bro Ryan Douglas and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a full and comprehensive EA degree to candidate James Connelly. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated Bro Connelly and introduced him to his own RWM Bro Alan Graham who likewise congratulated him and presented him to the assembled Brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Alan Graham congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Alan Graham invited all to harmony, and all were well provided for in 1513s customary manner. Much blethering ensued and links between the two Lodges were once again strengthened.
October
Tuesday 22nd: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the second meeting of October. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Bishopbriggs No.1259, headed by RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon who, with the assistance of his Office bearers and Past Masters, delivered an excellent exemplification of the Fellowcraft degree to volunteer candidate Bro Derek Davidson. An excellent degree and very much appreciated by the assembled brethren. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon thanked Bro Davidson for volunteering and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson who likewise congratulated him and presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon and his degree team on an excellent degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and much chat and reminiscing ensued as the links joining the two lodges grew ever stronger.
Tuesday 15th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 12 other Brethren, headed a deputation into Lodge Clydesdale No.551. After being warmly welcomed by RWM Bro Colin Crookson and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Bro Ryan Douglas and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine exemplification of the EA degree on volunteer candidate Bro Danny Farquhar. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated Bro Farquhar thanked him for volunteering and presented him to RWM Bro Colin Crookston who in turn presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Colin Crookston congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Colin Crookston invited all to partake of Lodge Clydesdale harmony, and the pies & bridies disappeared at an amazing rate of knots. Much chat ensued as the long standing friendship between the two Lodges was strengthened.
Wednesday 9th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 10 other Brethren, headed a deputation into The Operative Lodge of Airdrie No.203. After being warmly welcomed by RWM Bro Robert Fraser and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Napier PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine exemplification of the FC degree on volunteer candidate Bro Mark McBride. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated Bro McBride thanked him for volunteering and presented him to RWM Bro Robert Fraser who in turn presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Robert Fraser congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Robert Fraser invited all to partake of Lodge 203 harmony, and the Brethren had a fine evening in each others company
Tuesday 8th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the first meeting of October. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Woodhall St Johns No.305, headed by RWM Bro Gordon Airns who, with the assistance of his Office bearers and Past Masters, delivered an excellent Master Mason degree to candidate Bro Derek Davidson, a great degree very much appreciated by all present. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Gordon Airns congratulated Bro Davidson and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson who likewise congratulated him and presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated RWM Bro Gordon Airns and his degree team on an excellent degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the soup and pies were consumed in short order as the long standing links between the lodges grew ever stronger.
Friday 4th: At the Provincial Grand Lodge quarterly communication meeting, RWPGM Bro Bill Perry made three weel kent and worthy Brethren into Honorary Provincial Grand Office Bearers. To the delight of the 5 other members of 1096 who were present, one of the recipients was our own RWM Bro Ian Thompson. RWPGM Bro Bill Perry spoke warmly of his appreciation for the efforts of all three brethren in exhibiting the best of Freemasonry to the world at large. All three were suitably surprised by this very personal gift from RWPGM. Despite the visible shock and awe at being so honoured, each did manage to reply (one of whom was previously described as being short and to the point! I leave you to guess which one!). At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony provided by the Brethren of Lodge 440.
A wee photo of RWPGM Bro Bill Perry and three desperate characters!
Photo courtesy of Bro Jim Finlay PM
September
Tuesday 24th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the second meeting of September. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Clydesdale No.551 headed by RWM Bro Colin Crookston, who, with the assistance of his excellent degree team, conferred an excellent exemplification of the FC degree on volunteer candidate Bro Derek Davidson. The attention paid by all present throughout the degree bore testimony to the high quality of the degree team. RWM Bro Ian Thompson, on resuming control of the Lodge, congratulated Bro Davidson, thanked him for volunteering, and called on the assembled brethren to congratulate RWM Bro Colin Crookston on the standard of the degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony for a bite to eat and a blether, and the links between 551 and 1096 were further strengthened, as the brethren enjoyed each others company once again.
Thursday 19th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 10 other Brethren, headed a deputation into Lodge St Thomas No.306. After being warmly welcomed by RWM Bro David Falconer and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Napier PM, and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine FC degree on candidate Connor Sheridan. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated Bro Sheridan, and presented his to RWM Bro David Falconer who in turn presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro David Falconer congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro David Falconer invited all to partake of Lodge 306 harmony, and the Brethren had a fine evening in each others company
Tuesday 10th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the first regular meeting of September. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge St Mary No.31 headed by RWM Bro Jim McKidd who, with the assistance of his Office bearers and Past Masters, delivered an excellent Fellowcraft degree to candidate Bro Derek Davidson, a great degree very much appreciated by all present. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Jim McKidd congratulated Bro Davidson and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson who likewise congratulated him and presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated RWM Bro Jim McKidd and his degree team on an excellent degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the soup and pies were consumed in short order as the long standing links between the lodges grew ever stronger.
June
Monday 24th & Thursday 27th: Secretary Bro Jim Finlay PM had the great pleasure of representing the Lodge at the P7 leaving celebrations at both Primary Schools in our village. This year was the 18th presentation of the Endeavour Trophy which the Lodge sponsors. Bro Finlay (oldie that he is!) remembers well the first time, as he was at both presentations in 2002. Now another year has passed, and we see some more of our children off on their adventure to High School. To each one of them, tomorrows fine citizens as they will be, we send our very best wishes for your future. May you all continue to strive to match the meaning of the Endeavour Trophy and continue to be "the best that I can be". Enjoy the journey to wherever your destiny takes you.
May
Friday 17th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed everyone to a Special Meeting to showcase a deputation of 12 Reigning and Past masters from both Middle and Upper wards of the Province of Lanarkshire. The deputation was headed by RWM Bro Gordon Airns of Lodge Woodhall St Johns No.305 who introduced each member of the degree team as follows :-
RWM Bro Jim McKidd of Lodge St Mary No.31,
RWM Bro Robert Fraser of the Operative Lodge of Airdrie No.203,
RWM Bro Andy Cheeseman of Lodge Lockhart St John No.248,
RWM Bro David Falconer Of Lodge St Thomas No.306,
RWM Bro Robert Whitefield of Lodge St.John No.471,
RWM Bro Colin Crookston of Lodge Clydesdale No.551,
RWM Bro Ken Bogle of Lodge Livingstone St.Andrew No.573,
RWM Bro Phil Biggerstaff of Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919,
IPM Bro Alan Nightingale of Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228,
RWM Bro Sam Howie of Lodge Dura No.1513,
RWM Bro Iain Morrison of Lodge Mauldslie Castle No 1630,
noted that our own RWM would be taking part, and lastly himself.
There being no business to discuss, control of the Lodge was given to RWM Bro Gordon Airns who, together with the Masters Team, proceeded to deliver a unique EA degree on candidate Derek Davidson. The degree, being a combination of 12 different rituals, was delivered in a smooth and professional manner by an exemplary degree team. The silence from the assembled Brethren during the degree spoke volumes for the quality of each speaker, and for the degree as a whole.
At the completion of the degree, the newly initiated Bro Derek Davidson was presented to RWM Bro Gordon Airns who, along with RWM Bro Ian Thompson, congratulated him on his first step in Freemasonry and called on the assembled company to give him a warm welcome into the Lodge.
RWM Bro Ian Thompson, on resuming control of the Lodge, praised RWM Bro Gordon Airns and the entire Masters degree team for the high standard of their work and called on the assembled Brethren to congratulate them for a good job, well done. RWM Bro Ian Thompson then invited the Masters team and all present to retire to harmony, where much chat ensued accompanied by a drop or two of the water of life! A great evening, a great degree, looking forward to the next one.
A wee photo of the Reigning Masters team 2019
From Left to right:- RWM Alan Whyte 1243, RWM Jim McKidd 31, RWM Robert Whitefield 471, IPM Alan Nightingale 1228, RWM Gordon Airns 305, RWM Phil Biggerstaff 919, RWM Andy Cheeseman 248, Candidate Derek Davidson, RWM Colin Crookston 551, RWM Ian Thompson 1096, RWM Sam Howie 1513, RWM David Falconer 306, RWM Iain Morrison 1630, RWM Ken Bogle 573, RWM Robert Fraser 203.
Photo courtesy of Bro Jim Finlay PM
Thursday 9th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 11 other Brethren, headed a deputation into Lodge Bishopbriggs No.1259. After being warmly welcomed by RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Willie Napier PM, Bro Frank McBride and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine FC degree on the volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked the volunteer candidate Bro Arthur Williams for standing in as candidate, congratulated him, and presented him to RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and asked RWM Bro Peter Fraser of Lodge Commercial No.360 to comment on the degree which he did and was most complimentary. RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon then called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Norman MacKinnon invited all to partake of Lodge 1259 harmony, and the Brethren had a fine evening in each others company.
April
Tuesday 23rd: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the second regular meeting of April. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a fine deputation from The Operative Lodge of Airdrie No.203 headed by RWM Bro Robert Fraser. RWM Bro Ian Thompson then welcomed a distinguished deputation from The Provincial Grand Lodge of Lanarkshire (Middle Ward) headed by PGM Bro Bill Perry. Prior to the degree by Lodge 203, PGM Bro Bill Perry accompanied by IPM Bro Derek Douglas presented RWM Bro Ian Thompson with his Jubilee certificate. PGM Bro Bill Perry in his inimical style paid warm tribute to the long and dedicated service given by Bro Thompson over his 50 years of service to our craft. Never being one to be stuck for words, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked PGM for the presentation and thanked the members of 1096 for the kind sentiments expressed.
Thereafter, RWM Bro Robert Fraser with the assistance of his Office bearers and Past Masters, delivered a full and comprehensive Mark Master Mason degree to candidate Bro Mark Logan, which was much appreciated by all present. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Robert Fraser congratulated Bro Logan and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated RWM Bro Robert Fraser and his degree team on the quality of the degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony for bite to eat and many blethers.
From left to right, Bro Derek Douglas IPM & PGJW, Bro Andrew Millar DPGM, Bro Bill Perry PGM, RWM Bro Robert Fraser, RWM Bro Ian Thompson, Bro Tom Davidson IPPGM, Bro Norman Carnegie SPGM, Bro Angus Ross SPGM, Bro William Craig Provincial Grand Secretary.
Photo courtesy of Bro Jim Finlay PM.
Saturday 20th: Today the Lodge welcomed the members of Cleland Community Council who had arranged an Easter Egg hunt for the children of our village. The children were well entertained with the egg hunt, face painting, arts & crafts by making egg baskets, bunny ears and lots of colouring-in. Thanks to Councillor Louise Roarty and the Community council volunteers who have made this such a successful day. Thanks also to Provost Jean Jones for officially starting off the egg hunt. The weather was kind, there were lots of supportive mums and dads, and the kids had a great time. Fingers crossed for the same weather next year. This could easily become an annual event.
Some photos from the day...
Thursday 18th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 11 other Brethren, headed a deputation into Lodge St Mary No.31. After being warmly welcomed by RWM Bro Jim McKidd and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Willie Napier PM, Bro Frank McBride and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine FC degree on the volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked the volunteer candidate Bro Ian Nelson for standing in as candidate, congratulated him, and presented him to RWM Bro Jim McKidd and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Jim McKidd congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Jim McKidd invited all to partake of Lodge 31 harmony, and the Brethren had a fine evening in each others company.
Tuesday 9th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the first regular meeting of April. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Robert King Stewart No.919 headed by RWM Bro Phil Biggerstaff who, with the assistance of his Office bearers and Past Masters, delivered an excellent, full and comprehensive Master Mason degree to candidate Bro Mark Logan. The expectations of the assembled brethren on the quality of the degree by 919 were well met. Not a sound other than each lecturers voice could be heard. It was a great degree very much appreciated by all present. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Phil Biggerstaff congratulated Bro Logan and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson who likewise congratulated him and presented him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated RWM Bro Phill Biggerstaff and his degree team on an excellent degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the soup and pies were consumed in short order as the links between the lodges grew ever stronger.
Monday 1st: RWM Bro Ian Thompson accompanied by 12 other Brethren, headed a deputation into Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228. Despite the cold outside, the welcome was warm, and after being welcomed by RWM Bro John Dunn and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Bro Frank McBride and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine FC degree on the volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked the volunteer (I forgot his name!) for standing in as candidate, congratulated him, and presented him to RWM Bro John Dunn and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro John Dunn congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro John Dunn invited all to partake of 1228 harmony, and Brethren had a fine evening in each others company., and much chat ensued as the brethren renewed old friendships and formed new ones.
March
Tuesday 26th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the second regular meeting of March. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a large and distinguished deputation from Lodge Dura No 1513 headed by RWM Bro Sam Howie who, with the assistance of his Office bearers, delivered an excellent exemplification of the Fellowcraft degree on volunteer candidate Bro Duncan McBride. If a pin could have been dropped, it would have been the only sound in the Temple other than the lecturer who was speaking. A great degree very much appreciated by all present. RWM Bro Sam Howie thanked Bro McBride and presented him to RWM Bro Ian Thompson. Resuming control of the Lodge, RWM Bro Ian Thompson also thanked Bro McBride and presented him to the assembled brethren. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the long standing links between the lodges were strengthened.
Tuesday 12th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the first regular meeting of March. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Lanarkshire (Middle Ward) headed by SPGM Bro Alexander R Kelly. The business of Provincial Grand Lodge was conducted in their customary manner, and closed by SPGM Bro Alexander R Kelly congratulating IPM Bro Derek Douglas for his fifth term of office, welcoming him as the newly installed Provincial Grand Junior Warden, and thanked him along with Bro Treasurer and Bro Secretary for their management of the lodge in the past year. Thereafter the Lodge office Bearers conferred a grand Fellowcraft degree on Bro Mark Logan, and the attention paid by all present throughout the degree bore testimony to the quality of the degree team. RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated Bro Mark Logan, welcomed him as our newest Fellowcraft and presented him to the assembled brethren. Provincial Grand Junior Deacon commented most kindly on the quality of the degree, and likewise congratulated Bro Mark Logan on this next step in his Masonic career. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony for a bite to eat and a blether as the brethren enjoyed each others company once again.
Thursday 7th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson headed a small (but beautifully formed!) deputation into Lodge Livingstone St Andrew No 573. After being welcomed by RWM Bro Ken Bogle and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Bro Willie Napier PM and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a fine FC degree on the volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked Bro David for standing in as candidate, congratulated him, and presented him to RWM Bro Ken Bogle and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Ken Bogle congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Ken Bogle invited all to harmony, and the link between the two Lodges was strengthened. Harmony was warm, very tasty and consumed in fine fashion by the assembled brethren. Much chat ensued as the brethren renewed old friendships and formed new ones.
February 2019
Tuesday 26th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed all to the second meeting of February. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Livingstone St Andrew No.573 headed by RWM Bro Ken Bogle, who, with the assistance of his excellent degree team, conferred an exemplification of the FC degree on volunteer candidate Bro Iain Logan. The degree was conferred in an excellent manner, and the attention paid by all present throughout the degree bore testimony to the high quality of the degree team. RWM Bro Ian Thompson , on resuming control of the Lodge, thanked Bro Logan for volunteering. RWM Bro Ian Thompson then called on the assembled brethren to congratulate RWM Bro Ken Bogle on the high standard of the degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony for a bite to eat and a blether, and the links between 573 and 1096 were further strengthened, as the brethren enjoyed each others company once again.
Friday 22nd: Cauld Winter was howling, o'er moor and o'er mountain, And wild was the surge on the dark rolling sea.... hang on, that's the Road tae Dundee, no tae Cleland! Anyway, the weather wisna too bad as a grand gathering of oor ain folks began to arrive for the Lodge Burns Supper.
As Chairman for the evening, RWM Bro Ian Thompson warmly welcomed everyone and hoped they would all enjoy the dinner and entertainment of the evening.
The Haggis was piped in by Hazel White (a richt bonny wee piper lassie!), carried aloft by Margaret Thompson and addressed and toasted by John Calderwood. Duncan McBride gave the Selkirk grace and all sat down to the dinner once again provided by United Services.
After dinner and the Loyal Toast, the entertainment began with May Torrance (sich a bonny wee singer) "Comin thru the rye" as we settled down to listen to Andy Quinn giving a grand rendering of the Immortal Memory ending with Hazel White playing a lament. May Torrance again had us tapping oor feet, ready to listen to a raucous Toast to the Lassies from David Walker. Where he gets his jokes naebody kens, but whit a repertoire! After a wee break to refill oor glasses, May Torrance "ca'd the yows" followed by Andy Quinn giving us a somewhat different take on Holy Willies prayer, with David Walker giving us several o Burns shorter poems including The Barley Bree. May Torrance rounded off a grand nights entertainment with "Ye Banks and Braes".
Thus the formal part of the evening passed all too quickly and drew to a close with the entire company singing The Star O' Rabbie Burns. Afterwards, much relaxed blethering and consumption of our national drink (Irn Bru!) ensued and all retired homeward, weel fed, weel watered and very weel entertained. A great night and already looking forward to a repeat for oor Burns Night 2020.
From left to right, Andy Quinn, Chairman Ian Thompson, David Walker and May Torrance.
Photo courtesy of Bro Jim Finlay PM.
Wednesday 20th: RWM Bro Ian Thompson headed a deputation into Lodge Robert King Stewart No 919. After being welcomed by IPM Bro Davind MacDonald and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, Bro Willie Napier PM and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered an exemplification FC degree on the lodge volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson thanked him for volunteering and introduced him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, IPM Bro David MacDonald congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, IPM Bro David MacDonald invited all to harmony, and the long standing link between the two Lodges was strengthened. Harmony was provided in 919 inimicable fashion, and as always, much chat ensued as the brethren renewed many old friendships.
Tuesday 12th: The second meeting of February. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Union No 244 Stonehouse headed by their RWM Bro Ross Thomson. RWM Bro Ross Thomson assisted by his excellent degree team, proceeded to initiate candidate Mark Logan into Freemasonry in an excellent manner with an exemplary degree. The attentive silence of all of the large company assembled to witness the degree, spoke volumes for the quality of each lecturer and the degree as a whole. RWM Bro Ian Thompson, on resuming control of the Lodge, congratulated RWM Bro Ross Thomson and called on the assembled brethren to congratulate RWM Bro Ross Thomson and his excellent degree team for a superb degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the link between the two lodges grew stronger.
Monday 4th: For the second outgoing visitation of his year, RWM Bro Ian Thompson headed a smallish (but once again beautifully formed!) deputation into Lodge Mauldslie Castle No.1630. After being welcomed by RWM Bro Iain Morrison and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered an accomplished FC degree to the volunteer candidate. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated him and introduced him to RWM Bro Iain Morrison and the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Iain Morrison congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Iain Morrison invited all to harmony, where much blethering ensued as friendship were renewed and the link between the two Lodges was strengthened.
January 2019
Thursday 24th: For the first outgoing visitation of his year, RWM Bro Ian Thompson headed a small (but beautifully formed!) deputation into Lodge Woodhall St Johns No 305. After being welcomed by RWM Bro Gordon Airns and the assembled Brethren, RWM Bro Ian Thompson assisted by his degree team of Bro Ian Douglas PM, Bro Willie Jackson PM, Bro Tom Gilfillan PM, and Bro Jim Finlay PM, delivered a grand MM degree on candidate Bro Mike Lombardi. At the conclusion of the degree, RWM Bro Ian Thompson congratulated him, and accompanied by RWM Bro Gordon Airns, introduced him to the assembled brethren. Resuming control of the lodge, RWM Bro Gordon Airns congratulated RWM Bro Ian Thompson and called on the assembled brethren to give a warm vote of thanks to the degree team. At the close of the meeting, RWM Bro Gordon Airns invited all to harmony, and the link between the two Lodges was strengthened. Harmony was delightful and consumed in fine fashion by the assembled brethren. Much chat ensued as the brethren renewed old friendships and formed new ones.
Tuesday 22nd: The second meeting of January. After rather a lot of business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge St John No 471 Shotts headed by their RWM Bro Robert Whitefield. RWM Bro Robert Whitefield assisted by his excellent degree team, proceeded to deliver a most enjoyable exemplification of the EA degree on volunteer candidate Bro Duncan McBride. RWM Bro Ian Thompson, on resuming control of the Lodge, congratulated RWM Bro Robert Whitefield, thanked Bro McBride for once again volunteering, and called on the assembled brethren to congratulate RWM Bro Robert Whitefield and his excellent degree team for a superb rendering of the EA degree. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony and the links between the lodges were strengthened.
Tuesday 8th: The first regular meeting of 2019. After the usual business, RWM Bro Ian Thompson welcomed a distinguished deputation from Lodge Motherwell Caledonian No.1228 headed by their RWM Bro John Dunn. RWM Bro John Dunn assisted by his excellent degree team, proceeded to deliver a most enjoyable exemplification of the EA degree on volunteer candidate Bro Duncan McBride. RWM Bro Ian Thompson, on resuming control of the Lodge, congratulated RWM Bro John Dunn, thanked Bro McBride for volunteering, and called on the assembled brethren to congratulate RWM Bro John Dunn and his excellent degree team for a good job well done. At the close of the meeting, all retired to harmony for a blether and a wee refreshment.
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