The PGM’s Reception, a Wonderful Evening

The Provincial Grand Masters Reception

Click Here to watch the after dinner speech

With thanks to W Bro Brian McCormack for this report

Friday 17th April, a total of 102 brethren and wives/partners/guests, sat down to a wonderful evening. Each of us enjoyed a delicious three course m

eal, accompanied by wines, which flowed almost as freely as the conversation. Laughter was constant, easy gathered by the good choices around the room and it was clear that by the volume and tempo, we were all very much having a superb time.

We were delighted to host Lee Shergold, from Bridge For Young People, who gave us an update on the work of that Newbury based charity and how our donations has helped to support the lives of the young patrons they assist. A very moving presentation when you hear of the journeys some of our young adults take as they start the next chapter of their lives.

One of the highlights is the raffle and we were inundated with prizes, over 50 in total. This generosity led to us raising, via the raffle, a fabulous total of £815.20. I know, where did the 20p come from and did that person claim one fifth of a prize?

This total surpassed that of last year and I am even incredibly grateful for the support brethren give BeMBA. However, that wasn’t the final total. I was humbled by one brother who asked me if they could top up that total to £1000. As this was a personal donation, not part of the raffle, we were able to see our BeMBA QR code and claim the gift aid taking the total to £231.25. Our final total is, therefore, £1046.25.

We would like to say a huge Thank You to W Bro Paul Tomlinson for the tremendous work behind the scenes organising this wonderful event.

Another wonderful social and charitable evening for the thriving Mark province of Berkshire. More exciting events to follow.

A busy night for Linden Acre Lodge

With thanks to W Bro Graham Parker for this fantastic report.

A Memorable Evening & A Night of Camaraderie and Celebration

On Tuesday night, Linden Acre MMM was the setting for a lively and enjoyable gathering. The event commenced with the Worshipful Master (WM) and seven brethren from Friendship and Care MMM delivering the Provincial Travelling Keystone, setting a tone of unity and tradition for the evening.

Welcoming New Members

The Deacons led the ballot, resulting in Bro Shaun Simmons and Mike Hogg becoming joining members. In recognition of their new membership, both received the customary and highly coveted joining gifts. The true nature of these gifts remains a secret, reserved for those who choose to join.

Advancement Ceremony

The WM, W Bro John Ferguson, accompanied by RW Bro Peter Sands and VW Bro Jim Payen, conducted the Advancement of Bro Cammy Campbell, elevating him to the rank of Mark Master Mason. This formal progression was a highlight of the evening, reinforcing the lodge’s commitment to growth and tradition.

Special Presentations and Recognitions

The Deputy Provincial Grand Master (DPGM) presented the WM with the Grand Masters Keystone, an honour that added to the sense of occasion. During the Second Rising, the lodge celebrated five members who will receive Provincial Grand Rank at the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting in September, marking a significant achievement for the brethren.

Festive Board and Closing Toast

The festivities continued at the board, where conviviality and fellowship were at the forefront. As the Tyler’s toast was delivered, the WM and brethren of Linden Acre MMM knew they had a great night behind them.

The Make Your Mark Club Launch Event

Date for your diary,

Saturday 4th July, 09:30 at Sindlesham. The MYM Club launch event (including all you can eat buffet breakfast for all who want to eat, £16).

Meet the committee, hear the vision, and suggest educational and social events you would like to attend. Help develop your club.

Please spread the word; further details to follow.

Club email: MakeYourMark@berksmark.org.uk

Newsletter from Mark Masons Hall – 10th April

Read the latest news from Mark Masons Hall by clicking HERE

Newsletter from Mark Masons Hall – 2nd April

Read the latest news from Mark Masons Hall by clicking HERE

Past Craft Provincial Grand Master Installed in the RAM Chair

With thanks to The Provincial Grand Master of Mark Master Masons – Berkshire for this wonderful report.

A splendid evening at Wallingford Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners saw the Worshipful Master, who happens to be our Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies W. Bro. Tim Spriggs, Install Bro. Martin Peters into the Chair. Now, Worshipful Brother Martin is, of course, the Past Provincial Grand Master of the Craft Province of Berkshire and this is his first time in a Royal Ark Mariner Chair.

The Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro Graham Seeman delivered the address to the new Commanderand the Deputy Provincial Grand Master W.Bro. Jim Payen and Past PGM R W.Bro. Peter Sands were also present.

The evening ended with the usual convivial Festive Board after which all the customary toasts were duly honoured. Congratulations to all at Wallingford RAM for an excellent ceremony and a hugely enjoyable evening.

The Make Your Mark Club Committee

Contact the Make Your Mark Club,

Email: MakeYourMark@berksmark.org.uk

Your club committee

Chair: Graham Thornton

Secretary: Paul Tomlinson

Provincial Executive Liaison: Jim Payen

Member: Brian McCormack

Member: Grant Goddard

Member: Kevin Dodd

The MYM Club is a sub committee of the Provincial Communications Team and is overseen by The Provincial Communications Officer, Mark Davis.

20th March Newsletter from Mark Masons Hall

The newsletter from Mark Masons Hall can be viewed by clicking on the image above.

Full Provincial Team Visit to Windsor Castle Lodge

It was a special night at Windsor Castle Lodge of Mark Master Masons when the R.W. Provincial Grand Master brought his full Provincial team for an official visit, complete with sword and standard. This historic lodge, founded in 1898, meets right next to the walls of the castle itself and over the years has had many members of the Royal Household in its ranks.

The lodge, led by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Ed George put on a superb demonstration of the Advancement ceremony, with one of the Provincial team acting acting as candidate. The photograph shows the Provincial Team with the Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro. Graham Seeman.

Afterwards, all those present retired to the Bexley Arms for a sumptuous four course Festive Board and all then made their way home having enjoyed a superb evening of Mark Masonry and companionship. The Magic of the Mark weaving its spell once again.

Porchester Mark No 27 are on top form!!