United Grand Lodge
of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons
of England


 
Province of
South Wales Eastern Division

Freemasonry
in the
Community

 

Lunch date at Pontyclun helps to dispel myths 

by George C Royle, PM

The Pontyclun/Cowbridge Freemasonry in the Community Group hosted a very successful Luncheon on Saturday 8th June 2002 at Pontyclun's Masonic Hall. In all, 48 attended including

  • the Mayor of Cowbridge and her Consort

  • local Councillors

  • representatives of local Sports Clubs and the Comprehensive School

Members of Lodges from both areas were present along with their ladies. The event was also supported by members from Bridgend and Barry Lodges.

W. Bro. Brian Eveleigh, PSGD, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, addressed the gathering on the whole ethos of 'Freemasonry in the Community' before presenting Trophies to the following:

  • The "Head Prefect Shield" to Mrs. A. E. Clemett, Head Teacher of Y Pant Comprehensive School

Freemasonry in the Community

This was a programme of events intended to illustrate the true nature of Freemasonry, and to restore it (in the perception of the general public) to its rightful position as a part of the community rather than apart from the community.

The concept was devised by the Marquess of Northamp-ton who is the Pro Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England. The national programme was concentrated on the week 26th June to 3rd July 2002, but many events occured before and after that week. In the Province of South Wales, Eastern Division, FitC events began in the Autumn of 2001! 

Major events included a Service at Llandaff Cathedral; a fun day out for hundreds of children at Barry Island; a multi-faith act of worship at Barry; a stand at the Royal Welsh Show ....... the list is almost endless.

  • The "Jubilee Shield" to Mr. E. Acreman, Chairman of the Pontyclun Athletic Bowling Club for the mixed pairs winners of the Jubilee Bowls Tournament

  • The "Under 16's Cup" to Mr. Len Taylor, Chairman of the Cowbridge Bowling Club.

Each Trophy was suitably inscribed as having been donated by the Freemasons of Pontyclun and Cowbridge, and bore the Square and Compasses symbol.

Following lunch, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master invited visitors to an explanation of the Temple, which was greatly appreciated. From some of the comments made, the whole event appeared to have been favourably received, and it is hoped has gone some way to dispel some of the myths that surround Freemasonry.