Grand Master Mason’s Message by Brother W. Ramsay McGhee New Zealand Trip On Monday 24th February 2025 I travelled down to London by train to meet up with Grand Secretary for the annual Tri Partite meeting at Grand Lodge in Great Queen Street. The meeting on the Tuesday went well and several topics of mutual interest were discussed. That evening, Grand Secretary headed back to Edinburgh, and I made my way to Gatwick where I met up with Grand Director of Ceremonies, Brother Ronnie Forbes, for the first leg of our journey to New Zealand, an eight-and-a-half-hour flight to Dubai where we changed onto the flight to Christchurch via Sydney which would take some fourteen hours. We were met in Christchurch by MEC Alan Raymond Stack whom I was to install that evening as Grand Superintendent of the District Grand Chapter of New Zealand South Island. We travelled to his home where a quick shower and change took place before heading to the Masonic Temple which had been completely renovated after the earthquake disasters a few years ago. It was an absolute privilege to work in such beautiful surroundings. I was assisted in the Ceremony by my Third Grand Principal, MEC Ernest Wong and by Past Grand Superintendent MEC Ronald J Sutherland who originally hailed from Caithness. It was a grand night, and I was pleased that the Ceremony had gone well. After the Ceremony, we enjoyed an excellent harmony prepared by the wives. It was then straight back, into bed with the alarm set for 05.30 for an early morning flight to Dunedin where I was to conduct the installation of the new District Grand Master, Brother Glenn Reginald Summerhayes the following day. On arrival in Dunedin, we were collected by Brother Bruce Suszko and taken to our home for the next few days, the Dunedin Club a beautiful and charming nineteenth century building which was only a short walk from the Dunedin Masonic Centre. We were met at the Club by Past District Grand Master, Brother Merv Gilkinson. That night we had a rehearsal at which we explained that their programme bore no resemblance to the recognised ritual used by Grand Lodge today and that the Installation the following day would be quite a bit different. Perhaps the fact that there has not been a District Installation conducted by Grand Lodge in over sixty years has meant that a more localised ceremony has evolved. However, the scene was set for the Saturday afternoon and the Installation Ceremony was conducted as per the recognised Grand Lodge Ritual and the good news was that everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience. At the ceremony I was delighted to welcome into Grand Lodge Brother J G Soper, the District Grand Master South Island and Brother W Weir District Grand Master, North Island - English Constitution, Brother G Wrigley, Past Grand Master GL of New Zealand, Brother J N Southwick the Provincial Grand Master of the Irish Constitution South Island along with our own District Grand Master from the north island, Brother Gordon McMahon and other senior representatives from the Irish Constitution and the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. It was good to see all the Constitutions supporting each other. I was pleased to be assisted in the ceremony by Brothers M Gilkinson, Senior Warden, W S Gardiner, Junior Warden, G W Parker, Grand Secretary, and R E Hudson, Grand Chaplain all well-orchestrated by our own Grand D of C, Brother Ronald Forbes. At the harmony, we were delighted to witness a tremendous display by the Kapa Haka Group from Logan Park High School. Their precision was first class and how good it was to see so many young people carrying on the traditions of their country. Included in the menu for a superb dinner was haggis, made by ninety-year-old Brother Gordon Smart. It was delicious and greatly appreciated by all present. On Sunday 2nd March, accompanied by Past DGM, Merv Gilkinson and our new DGM Glenn Summerhayes, Ronnie and I enjoyed a marvellous tour of Dunedin in glorious weather with the temperature in the mid-twenties. We were taken to Larnach Castle where we had lunch followed by a walk round the beautiful gardens. From there we travelled to Harrington Point to visit the Royal Albatross Centre where everything possible to know about the birds and other sea life in the area is on display. On the way back to Dunedin, we stopped off at a country Pub in Portobello to have a pint with Bruce Suszko and his wife, Donna. A truly wonderful day. Monday morning – time to get the cases packed, off to the airport and a flight to Wellington. On Monday night, we attended the re-installation of Brother Tony Mansfield in Lodge St John Kilwinning No 662. The Ceremony was conducted by the new DGM, Brother Gordon McMahon who was assisted in his endeavour by Brethren of all four Constitutions that meet in New Zealand. It was a most enjoyable ceremony and good to see all four Constitutions working together. The evening was rounded off with a lovely meal including locally made haggis. Another great night of Masonic harmony. Tuesday morning - time to get the cases packed, off to the airport and a flight to Aukland. We arrived in Aukland early afternoon and were taken to the Cordis Hotel where we met up with the DGM, Brother Gordon McMahon and his wife Jacquie and spent a most enjoyable evening in a waterside restaurant. Wednesday morning, after breakfast, was taken up with administrative matters and catching up on ritual. We were collected in the early evening and driven to Lodge PonsonbyNo708 where we witnessed a very fine working of the EA Degree by the Master, Brother Brian Kidston, and his Office bearers. The candidate, Bro Nathan Rollings proved to be a very attentive young man and is the latest of a group of young men all joining the Lodge. The Harmony after the meeting was excellent and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. GMM, Bro Nathan Rollings, Master – Bro Brian Kidston and DGM Gordon McMahon On Thursday, I was collected by Bro Bob Russell and driven to the home of Brother Mike Bro Mike Chopping (EC) who very kindly agreed to take us out on his boat, the Colombina, along with three other Brethren - Brian (EC), John (IC) and Charlie (SC). So, it was an international Constitution group that set sail on a bright, warm, and sunny morning. We were only out less than an hour when we saw a boat homing in on us at speed - it was a Fishery Protection Vessel checking up on us - after some pleasantries with the crew they headed off into the horizon and left us to get on with it. What a pleasant time we had - dropped anchor and enjoyed lunch and later in the afternoon a great sail back to port in order that I could get back to the hotel, changed and ready to be picked up by MEC Tony Mansfield to head to Ponsonby Kilwinning RAC. Another great night - three very promising candidates and a degree worked to a very high standard under the expert eye of Past Grand Superintendent Ian Law. The night finished off in grand style with Harmony in the Refectory. On Friday 7th March the DGM and I had lunch with Bro Jim Watt, GM of New Zealand, his Depute, Bro Paul Chappel and Past GM, Bro Mark Winger. It was a very pleasant lunch at Sails Restaurant at Westhaven Marina during which we discussed a number of topics regarding freemasonry in New Zealand. That evening we assembled at the Irish Lodge in Auckland, Ara Lodge No 348, the oldest Lodge in Auckland and the biggest. A magnificent building that was to play host to the Scottish District the following day for the Installation of the new DGM. The rehearsal went smoothly and Grand D of C and I joined the DGM and his wife Jacquie, for a lovely meal in one of the many Quay side restaurants. On Saturday morning, we attended the District Grand Lodge Communication, had lunch and then prepared to install Bro Gordon McMahon as the new DGM for North Island New Zealand. The packed Lodge room with Brethren from all four Constitutions present created a great atmosphere for the ceremony which was well received. It was good to have three Past DGM’s present, Campbell MacFarlane, Bob Russell and Tony Ford. Bob Russell, GMM, Gordon McMahon, Tony Ford, Grand D of C and Campbell MacFarlane At the following Harmony, we were well entertained by two excellent singers and their accompanist from NZOPERA which is sponsored by the Freemasons Foundation. Sarah Mileham, a soprano who is of Korean, British and New Zealand heritage, Alfred Fonoti-Fuimaono, a Samoan baritone, and David Kelly the principal repetiteur for New Zealand opera. Their programme consisted of pieces from Puccini, Gershwin and Mozart with Sarah rounding off the performance with Loch Lomond since it was a Scottish District. A tremendous evening. Our final day in New Zealand started off at 09.15 when Bob Russell collected Ronnie and I to go to the morning service at Holy Trinity Cathedral where I had the honour to read the New Testament lesson. The sermon was in the very capable hands of the Very Rev Anne Mills, Dean of Auckland. The Cathedral is very bright and airy with tremendous stained glass – a beautiful building. After the service we were taken to the Orbit Revolving Restaurant for lunch before heading to the airport for the long flight back home. The entire visit ran smoothly, and we were both indebted to the Brethren and Companions, their wives and partners for their warm welcome, their hospitality, and their friendship. A truly memorable visit. Ramsay McGhee Grand Master Mason

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Grand Secretary’s Message by Brother William M. S. Semple

Welcome to the summer edition of the Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland Newsletter in which I am delighted to share some exciting updates and developments at Freemasons’ Hall. INTER-JUSRISDICTIONAL VISITS Firstly, we are pleased to announce that we have made significant strides in enhancing the ease with which our members can visit Lodges chartered under the Home Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland. This development aims to remove the “red tape” associated with inter-jurisdictional visits to foster greater unity and camaraderie among Freemasons, allowing for more seamless and enriching Masonic experiences across our respective Constitutions. Full details have been circulated to our secretariate around the world.

NEW STAFF AT FREEMASONS’ HALL

We are delighted to welcome two new key members to our team in Edinburgh. Sharon Hawthorne will be joining us as Executive Assistant to Grand Secretary in June. Sharon brings a wealth of experience that will undoubtedly support our vision and priorities. Furthermore, we are very happy to have Liza Giffen commence her role as Heritage & Collections Manager in July. Liza has a huge expertise in heritage management both on a national and international stage, most recently as heritage manager at Mercers Livery Company in London. Her skills and ability will be invaluable as we look to consolidate and share our rich Scottish Masonic history towards the 300th anniversary of Grand Lodge in 2036.

IT DEVELOPMENT

Our IT development project is moving forward under the watchful eye of the Governance & Strategy Board. We are now moving towards inviting tenders to build a robust and user-friendly digital platform that will better serve our members and streamline our operations throughout the Scottish Constitution. OFFICE

RESTRUCTURING AT FREEMASONS’ HALL

A new office structure will be introduced over the summer Freemasons' Hall. This restructuring aims to improve our operational efficiency through better collaborative working with a view to better serve our members. The new office layout will see the entire Grand Lodge staff operating from the first floor at George Street, Edinburgh, reflecting our commitment to modernising our facilities and service delivery. More details to follow when the moves take place, but all current email and telephone contacts remain valid and will not change.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DAY

The first Leadership Development Day took place at the end of April at Freemasons’ Hall, for our Provincial Grand Masters, and will be subsequently rolled out to District Grand Masters and Grand Superintendents around the world. Feedback was extremely positive from participants, and we look forward to implementing some of the ideas and suggestions that came to the fore. This includes an induction delivery for newly appointed PGM’s, DGM’s and Grand Superintendents before their Commissions commence.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

Although most Lodges do not meet during the summer months, Grand Lodge will continue to carry out ceremonial duties both at home and overseas. These activities include the Installation of District and Provincial Grand Masters, rededication ceremonies to celebrate Lodge anniversaries and, of course, the Regular Communication of Grand Lodge on Thursday 12th June 2025. We also very much look forward to a Special Meeting of Grand Lodge on Saturday 28th June 2025 and an exemplification degree given by our New and Young Masons from around the Scottish Constitution. An event not to be missed!! Additionally, the 5th International Scottish Masonic Conference will be held in Livingstone, Zambia, from 28th May to 31st May and our Burns Supper at Freemasons' Hall on 12th July. Full details have been previously circulated but further details for can be found here - The Grand Lodge of Scotland Burns Supper - The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

SISTER CONSTITUTIONS

The Grand Lodge of Scotland cherishes the close fraternal and harmonious bonds of friendship we share with our Sister Home Grand Lodges. As mentioned earlier, we have made it easier for our respective members to visit one another, fostering greater unity and camaraderie. The strength of these relationships was recently highlighted by the awarding of Past Grand Rank from the United Grand Lodge of England to our Grand Master Mason, Brother W. Ramsay McGhee (Past Grand Senior Warden), Past Depute Grand Master, Brother Ewan Rutherford (Past Junior Grand Warden), and myself (Past Grand Sword Bearer) at the Annual Investiture in London. This recognition is a testament to the mutual respect and admiration that exists between our Constitutions. Furthermore, we are honoured to be traveling to Dublin at the end of June to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Ireland. This significant milestone is a remarkable achievement for any organisation, and we look forward to commemorating our own Grand Lodge's 300th anniversary in 2036. These events and recognitions underscore the enduring strength and unity of our Masonic bonds, and we are proud to continue nurturing these relationships for the benefit of all our members. Long may that continue. TO CONCLUDE With these few words, I wish you all a very pleasant summer, no doubt with some Masonic activity thrown in!! Enjoy yourselves and say hello if our paths cross over the next few months. William M.S. Semple Grand Secretary

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Grand Almoner’s message by Brother Thomas Davidson

As we approach the summer recess for many lodges the aspect of our lodges that never takes a recess is caring for our sick and needy brethren. I thank all Lodge Almoners for their all-year-round commitment to their visiting and support duties but ask all brethren to ensure that their Lodge Almoner is assisted by you by informing him of brethren who are ill or in need. Don’t assume that someone else will do it, your almoner needs your support to be effective, especially through the recess. We continue to place our priorities on masonic benevolence and training support for young persons, and we thank Mrs. Dawn Oliff and staff for their work in this area. A review of the nature and form of masonic benevolence and its relevance in today’s society will be taking place over the summer period and will report later in the year. One aspect of our current benevolence system which the Benevolence and Care Committee consider may not be getting accessed as much as possible and I have been specifically asked to draw to the attention of the brethren is covered by Law 258 (ii) – assistance for children of brethren who are over school leaving age and pursuing Further or Higher education or Apprenticeship. This assistance cannot be universal, and cases will be considered on merit and need, but Lodge Masters and Secretaries could consider deserving cases. Beyond this Grand Lodge with the active support of an increasing number of brethren are pursuing several projects on behalf of the brethren of the Craft and our communities: - Prostate Champions We have an excellent and dedicated team of Prostate Champions are making a difference and raising awareness for brethren and their communities up and down the country. We now have 68 registered Prostate Champions all seeking opportunities to raise awareness. You can make a difference and raise awareness, if you are involved in other community groups in Scotland where the members could benefit from an awareness presentation, contact Helen Fleming at Prostate Scotland and she will co-ordinate a speaker from your local area (Helen Fleming email helen.fleming@prostatescotland.org.uk ). The critical message as always is, if you recognise the symptoms - get the information - don’t hesitate - get to your GP for guidance and testing – early detection is the key to better outcomes. Information at: https://www.prostatescotland.org.uk/resources

PROSPACKS PROJECT PROSTATE

Scotland are working hard and getting the packs into more hospitals (Monklands Hospital and the New Victoria Hospital in Glasgow have just joined the scheme). Hundreds of men undergoing surgical procedures throughout Scotland are receiving the benefit from the scheme. Funds continue to come in from lodges and provinces for this scheme and is greatly appreciated and makes a real difference. Armed Forces Covenant Work continues to progress on our journey to attain the Gold Award accreditation in 2026. By the time this newsletter is published we will have just hosted a one-day event at Freemasons’ Hall in April for about twenty companies involved in the Armed Forces Covenant where some of the charities which we are supporting had the opportunity to display to the companies attending. This demonstrates our support and appreciation for members of our armed forces both as Regulars leaving the forces or Reserves working in civilian posts. If you are an Employer, we encourage you to investigate the benefits to your business of the Armed Forces Covenant and the skills that veterans and reservists can bring to your company. Thanks go to Grand Secretary and Mrs Dawn Oliff for their sterling work in this area Masonic Literacy Project Training sessions have now taken place; the enthusiastic volunteer

MASONIC LITERACY CHAMPIONS

Have already started to deliver the pilot programme in the four pilot provinces with the support of the National Literacy Trust. The group WhatsApp group for the volunteers was recently launched and is proving to be an effective way of sharing information with the volunteers. It is still early days, but we will report later in the year. Other Projects and support visits As Grand Almoner, I never fail to be impressed by the determination of brethren at home and abroad to support good causes. In recent days I have been able spend a day walking with Bro. Jack Drummond who is walking from Land’s End to John O’ Groats (over 1200 miles) and Bro. Derek Robertson who is walking around the lodges in Stirlingshire (over 150 miles) to raise funds. These brethren are literally “going the extra mile” but many brethren are doing their bit to improve their communities and assist those in need. I again encourage all brethren to keep up the good work that you have been doing in projects to support your local communities both in Scotland and overseas. Thomas Davidson Grand AlmonerAs we enter the new year and we embrace the projects we pursue to deliver Relief, which is a fundamental principle to us as Freemasons, I thank all Lodge Almoners for their diligence but ask all brethren to ensure that their Lodge Almoner is assisted by you keeping him aware of brethren who are ill or in need. He holds the office, but we are all responsible as almoners, your almoner needs your support. We continue to place our priorities on masonic benevolence and training support for young persons and we thank Mrs. Dawn Oliff and staff for their work in this area. Beyond this Grand Lodge with the active support of many brethren are pursuing a number of projects on behalf of the brethren of the Craft and our communities.Grand Almoner Brother Thomas Davidson

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