The Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge of Northumberland No.9982, recently came together for a memorable evening at Morpeth Masonic Hall, marking a significant shift in tradition, as they bid farewell to their previous home at Cramlington Masonic Hall.
The Lodge, consecrated in January 2020, and 2 years in the planning due to the pandemic, undertake administrative work on behalf of the Province to assist the Provincial Grand Secretary in the organisation and running of the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge as well as the Annual Convocation of Provincial Grand Chapter. In addition they play a significant role, under the direction of the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, in accompanying Grand Officers at Installation meetings to represent the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master.
Appointment as a Provincial Grand Steward is by invitation only, the gift of the Provincial Grand Master and considered a signal honour, indicating that the individual has been identified as someone with the drive, ability, time and willingness to engage fully with Provincial activities in an administrative role, in addition to offering much needed assistance to the Provincial Executive in the delivery of the various Provincial functions.
A recent suggestion, from this years Master, sees them embarking on a journey to hold their three meetings in different locations, to reflect on the diverse geographical locations that their membership is drawn from within the Province. The evening’s agenda was a busy one with the excitement of planning for the Craft Annual Meeting, plus much more including the creation of a new Lodge banner.
Dining out at a local restaurant completed a superb evening and all members of the Stewards Lodge are encouraged to attend the meetings as, not only are they working meetings, but very informative and help in moulding the future of Freemasonry in Northumberland.
The next meeting, in March, will see the Lodge travel West to Hexham Masonic Hall where, amongst other things, the organisation of the Provincial Annual Royal Arch Chapter Convocation will be discussed.
The Lodge meets on the 2nd Friday in September, March and June, with the June meeting being the Installation meeting.
If your building is interested in hosting one of the future meetings, why not get in contact as the Lodge is always interested in visiting pastures new.
If you have a story, event or news item you would like to have published on the Provincial website, please get in touch with the Provincial Communications Team at news@northumberlandmasons.org.uk