A November to Treasure ...

NEWS FROM THE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
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I must start by mentioning the terrible floods that have hit the South of our Province. Our thoughts are with all affected as we approach Christmas.  I am not going to repeat my appeal and comments as shown on the Provincial Website other than to applaud the £60,000+ that Freemasons have donated from all over England to relieve the distress caused by the flooding.  “Worthy Masons All!”
I am pleased that in addition to the monies donated, we are helping Communities with Manpower support in clean-up operations.

Rotherham Golf Club - A New Masonic Meeting Place. What a revelation! It was a pleasure to chair an informal meeting to declare the facility open for Masonic meetings.  As I drove up the long drive and approached the building I was impressed.  The interior was also very impressive. Yes! I said to myself – this is the impact that we wish to make in our Communities and with candidates and with their friends and families.  My  congratulations to all who have negotiated the move from the former Rotherham Masonic Hall in the centre of the town.  This is a case study for many to emulate and augers well for the future of Freemasonry in Rotherham.  Why not go and see for yourself?

Yorkshire Air Ambulance - Our Annual visit to see the helicopter at the Nostell Priory base was very enjoyable.  West Riding Masonic Charities Limited (WRMCL) match-funded the donation from the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF).  The YAA work continues to impress and amaze. The provision of the £20,000 night vision goggles by WRMCL has already enabled YAA to save additional lives.
Remembrance Day - I have been pleased to read the reports of Masonic participation at many events throughout the Province and long may this continue, please. The Leeds Parade that I attended was conducted with quiet distinction.  Our participation was well received and culminated in the laying of wreaths at the cenotaph.
Thought for 2020 - I would like to see a greater number of Members joining me in the Parade and Service of Remembrance at Leeds. My thanks to all who have purchased the distinctive Masonic tie.  This enables us to make a donation to the Royal British Legion.

Radio Leeds - Well done to W Bro. Cannon Keith Madeley, PJGD, who delivered a splendid message in his interview. Ever the consummate professional and a superb ambassador for Freemasonry.  The interview centred on the Centenary of the Lodge of Peace No: 3988, Baildon.  It was a pleasure to attend the Centenary Meeting in a packed Temple.

Shakespeare and Equity Lodge No: 1018, Baildon - I received the Lodge Warrants and Certificate of Amalgamation at the final meeting of the Lodge.  Nothing lasts for ever and the combined histories of both Lodges indicate the significance of the impact made in the City of Bradford.  A proud and distinguished history that will not be forgotten.  I was very pleased to learn that the Members have joined Acacia Lodge No:  2321, Baildon and I wish them every happiness in their new Lodge.

Provincial Grand Chapter - What a lovely day at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford. My thanks to the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, his Co-Principals and all the Companions for the courtesies extended and the warmth of the welcome.  The traditional “Token of the Indissoluble Link” was returned into my safe keeping for the next six months.

Installation Meeting of Linton Lodge No: 9444, Harrogate - A soon as I have finished this Blog, I shall be on my way to Harrogate to attend Linton lodge

Now it’s time to look at the recipe for success – The Three Provincial Objectives

INCREASING MEMBERSHIP – Attraction, Retention and Retrieval
The good news keeps coming in.
The Membership Pathway - A Gift to All!
I continue to urge every Lodge and every Brother to play their part.  Very encouraging reports from the Castle Grove Masonic hall, Leeds Open Day with a joint event held by Lodges that meet in the building.  This emphasises and supports the absolute essential – “The Right Man for the Right Lodge”.

Yes, I continue to look to increase our Membership but only with men of the right character and calibre.

££££££ - Provincial Funds and resources are available for Lodges and Masonic meeting establishments who wish to hold Open Days or similar Events.  
RAISING OUR CIVIC PROFILE - Be There and Be Involved!
Flood Support, Open Days, Media Coverage, Remembrance Day Events, Grants from the Provincial Grand Master’s Fund, etc., etc., etc.

Please keep up the great work Brethren.

ENHANCING MEMBER EXPERIENCES
White Rose Magazine - Autumn 2019 Edition
Another magnificent edition of a publication that is enjoyed and highly respected all over the Masonic World.  Well done to W Bro. Peter Doherty, PPSGW, and Team – A real credit to the Province!

Can you help?  I know that W Bro. Peter would be delighted to hear from you if you would like to become involved.

Linking with the Inspectorates of Malta and also of Portugal
The final arrangements are now being prepared.  I shall look forward to taking Rita to the Algarve and to Malta.

Initiates’ Evenings – 2020
My thanks to all concerned.  The schedule is now published.   Please do try to attend to support your 2019 Initiates and their families. Incorporated into the schedule is the Annual Especial Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge to be held at Castle Grove Masonic Hall, Leeds where I shall invest certain Brethren with the rank of Past Provincial Grand Steward. These Brethren automatically become members for three years of the acclaimed “Provincial Company of Stewards”.  I am very pleased with the progress of “The Company” and their involvement in a number of important development projects and activities.

A Thought to end from Brother Winston Churchill:
“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often”

My Fraternal Greetings and Regards to you and yours!

David​
RW Bro. David S. Pratt - Provincial Grand Master

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