The Masonic Fraternity is one of the oldest fraternities in the world. It developed out of the Ancient Craft Guilds of Stone Masons who created works of architecture that were the admiration of every age. We are no longer Operative Masons, but Speculative Masons; using the symbolism and allegories to teach moral lessons. An example is the use of symbolic tools of the ancient masters to make better citizens in our communities. Three of the builder’s tools were the Plumb, the Square and the Level. Teaching us to be upright citizens by the “Plumb”, morals by the “Square” and meet all men on the “Level” of equality.

Fraternally
Kevin J Walsh
Master of Lodge Arawa No. 406

Secretary's Notes

Master's Visits

For all Brethren seeking a ride, departures are from the Master's private residence at the time stated.

Details will be posted here or contact The Master directly.

December 2011

BRETHREN,
PLEASE NOTE

It has been suggested that we should change our By Laws, as nearly every year we have to Apply to have our December meeting brought forward as it is too close to Xmas day.

The By Laws should read, “ December meeting will be held on the second Monday ”

This will save the necessity of having to apply to the D.G.M. every year for dispensation.

THE NEXT FEW MONTHS

(May - July)

May - Presentation of 50th year jewel to WBro Bruce Turner followed by the Second Degree tracing board presented by Bro Tom Russell

June - Master's last night

Sat 14th July - Installation of the new Master

Web Site Updates

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Lodge Notices

We meet at the Rotorua Freemasons Centre, 1131 Fenton St (Lake End) on the 3rd Monday of each Month at 7:30 pm. Visiting Brethren are received at 8:00 pm.

(Installation is in July)

WORK FOR THE NEXT FEW MONTHS

(May - July 2012)

Mon 21st May - Presentation of 50th year jewel to WBro Bruce Turner followed by the 2nd Degree Tracing Board (Bro Tom Russell)

Mon 18th June - Master's last night

Sat 14th July - Installation

Lodge News

Ladies Night: Black Tie Dinner: A very successful dinner was held at The Princess Gate Hotel in Rotorua on 29 May 2011. The cost of $45-00 per head for a three course meal, entrée, main course and desert was well received and thankfully applied to a sumptuous repast. The Master and his Wife presented each of the Ladies with a small memento of a Blue Slipper. The significance of this is explained in an article in our 'members' area.

Waitangi Day BBQ: Sunday 06 February 2011 was the annual get-together of Lodge members, friends and families. Hosted again at the home of the Lodge Master, the weather was great and and enjoyable morning was had by most. An enjoyable day was also had by the remainder - those who just wouldn't go home...

Congratulations to W Bro K Allen, PGBB, on his appointment from November as Geyserland District Grand Master, 2010 - 2013

Congratulations to W Bro G C Cook, PGS, on his appointment from November as Northern Region Grand Inner Guard, 2010 - 2013

Congratulations to W Bro B F Scott, PM, on his appointment from November as Geyserland District Grand Steward, 2010 - 2013.

Official Visit: Monday 13 December 2010. The first official visit by our newly installed District Grand Master was well attended by neighbouring and local Grand Lodge, Visiting Masters, Masons, Family and Friends. The presentation of Master Mason's Certificates to four of the five joining Masons this last year was followed by the presentation and investiture of the two District Grand Stewards by the District Grand Master in conjunction with the Northern Division Grand Director of Ceremonies. What could only be described as a 'sumptious feast' followed and was enjoyed by all. Photos of the occasion are available in the member'a area of this web site.

End of Year BBQ: Sunday 28 November 2010 saw yet another well attended gathering at the home of the Lodge Master.

LADIES  NIGHT. We had a great dinner on Sunday the 29th of August 2010 at the Kingsgate Hotel, Fenton Street.  It was a roast meal; with a soup, roast meat, beef or pork and a desert, all for $19-50 per head. Thank you for all who attended and we look forward to more social occasions.

W Bro C Croker was presented with his 50 year badge at a ceremony held as part of the regular Lodge meeting on Monday 16th August 2010. The 50 year badge was presented by the District Grand Master Elect, W Bro K Allen, PGBB. Hearty congratulations were given to W Bro Croker for his outstanding service to the Craft.

Bro K J Walsh was installed into the chair of Master of Lodge Arawa No 406 on Saturday 10 July 2010.

The working was carried out by V W Bro T A Becker, District Grand Master and Grand Lodge Officers of Geyserland District No 11.

Social Events

Almoner

1. Bro Jock Sharp, Phone 348 8761
2. WBro Geoff Miller, Phone 345 7784.

Please inform them of any Brother, Spouse, or Widow that is either sick or in distress.

Almoner

It was with deep regret that the Lodge learnt of the passing of Bro Jock Sharp's wife of many Decades, Neta, in early November 2011. The funeral was held on Thursday 10th November and a strong contigent from the Lodge was present to support Br Sharp. Our thoughts and strength are with you, Jock.

The Lodge extends its empathy towards VW Bro Selwyn and Dulcie Collins in their time of difficulty.