March 2026 Newsletter – review of our 75th Anniversary Year

The Pharos Lodge at 75
a member of
The Federation of School Lodges

As we, the Pharos Lodge (6967) come to the end of our 75th year, I thought it would be a good time to go back over this special anniversary year, the highlights and unfortunately the low points. Some of the content has been given before but I make no apologies for re-cycling it!

So to begin with on the 17th of May 2025 we celebrated the Installation of Brother Mark Pitchers as our Worshipful Master. His was to be a year unlike any previous Ruler of the Lodge had ever experienced.

WB Mark Pitchers and his Officiers 2025
The W.M. and his Officers at the 75th Anniversary Meeting

In May a well-attended meeting witnessed the Presentation of the ‘First Degree Tracing Board’ by WBro Roy Skelton, something few have witnessed. This, followed by a 5-course meal, made for a memorable occasion. As members of the Federation of School Lodges, we were pleased to welcome WBro John Hubbard, one of the Joint Secretary’s as an Honoured Guest, emphasising our connection with the Federation.

The 26th of July gave us the first ever opportunity to take part in a Clay Pidgeon Shoot, arranged by W.Bro. Steve Davies, putting us in competition against the Shorncliffe Lodge 4330. Whilst we did not win, it was a memorable day for all.

On the 9th of August, thanks to the generosity of Brother Jake Pearson and his wife Zoe, the lodge BBQ was held at their beautiful farmhouse. Their Hospitality, and the weather, could not have been better!

The 16th of August, as a major part of our celebration we had the honour of hosting the Federation of School Lodges Annual Festival, a privilege never given to a lodge in the Province of East Kent before. With guests and visitors coming from across England and Wales, a lot of work went into the preparations. As the Representative for Kent and Sussex it was a busy schedule visiting Federated lodges in the region promoting the event, a job I’m sure other regional reps were likewise doing. The meeting at the Dover Grammar School for Boys was well attended, with just short of 100 Masons, Guests and Visitors dining at the Holiday Inn afterwards.

 

Attendees at The Dover Grammar School for Boys Main Hall for the Lodge Meeting
Attendees at The Dover Grammar School for Boys Main Hall for the Lodge Meeting
Masons at the Tables 3
The Festive Board at the Holiday Inn, Dover
October meant the return to Masonic Business, for this meeting a presentation of the 1st Degree Lecture, organised by our Lodge Mentor, W.Bro. Garry Steed. In a new approach by the lodge, this was followed by a ‘White Table’ Festive Board, where guests and visitors, with their partners, had the opportunity to meet lodge members and ask questions.

November had us greeting a new Brother in an Initiation Ceremony, a pleasurable evening for all concerned.

With Christmas getting close, we had the W.M.’s wife to thank for arranging a Christmas dinner out at St. Margarets, and we thank her for the work in doing so.

January saw our new Initiate being passed to the 2nd Degree, a time of mixed joy and extreme sorrow. Joy as we welcomed our new brother on his next step in Freemasonry, but extreme sorrow for the loss of one of the stalwarts of the lodge, W.Bro. Roy Skelton.

I have touched on the positive side of 2025 but have avoided so far the sad events that were entwined. From August to December not including Roy, we lost four brethren. Roy’s Dad Bill amongst them. All were people who had had a great and positive effect on all of us.

With our 75th year drawing to a close, it was time to celebrate our Masters year with the now highly respected Ladies Night Cabaret! W.Bro. Garry Steed had once more secured a brilliant act in the person of Michael Appleton, with his Bublé Live act. Every act booked sells out in advance so Garry, keep up the good work.

Lodge room ready for our Ladies festival
Lodge room ready for our Ladies festival

The 14th of March had 5 members of Pharos attend the Septem lodge in an attempt to claim the ‘Group 7’ Travelling Gavel.  96 people from different lodges sat down to dine, with Dover Castle Lodge claiming the prize. We were only two members away from winning it ourselves. It is events like this that prove that, with the right motivation, we can attract more visitors.

And so to our new Worshipful Master, Bro. Andrew Martyn. Andrew, you have a superb team to support you and we know you will have a terrific year!

WB Andrew Martin Worshipful Master 2026-27
WB Andrew Martin Worshipful Master 2026-27

On the social side we have had a quiet but successful year, something we intend to expand. In the near future the Social Committee will publish a calendar that will include events such as Curry Evenings, Sunday Lunches, BBQ’s, possibly a camping/caravan night locally (still working on that one), lodge visits outside of our province and a trip to Grand Lodge. I hope to have all this available by the middle of next month, so watch this space.

At the time of writing, the next federation Festival is only 5 months away.so far we have 5 members attending. If we can get a couple more we can claim the Federation Travelling Gavel. If you would like to attend, please book soon. Details and booking forms are available on the following website, www.schoollodges.org.uk  or by emailing arthur.fsl@outlook.com

Stay Safe, Stay Well,
Arthur Hornby
Secretary Pharos Lodge 6967

Lodge donates £750 to school for music

The Federation of School Lodges donates £750.00 to the Dover Grammar School for Boys Orchestra for new instruments as it redevelops an orchestra.

In its 75th Anniversary year, the Pharos Masonic Lodge of Dover had the honour of hosting the Federation’s 77th Annual Festival. On August 16th, following a welcome from the Worshipful Master at the Holiday Inn, guests and visitors proceeded to the venue, the Dover Grammar School for Boys, by car and chartered bus. Once convened for the Business Meeting, attendees were formally welcomed by the President, R.W. Bro. Mark Constant, who extended his gratitude for their attendance from various parts of the country. It is important to note that the School is not the usual meeting place for the Lodge; the previous gathering at this location occurred in November 2021 prior to the demolition of the former building. The privilege to host the event in the new facility was made possible by the support of Head Teacher, Mr. Philip Horstrup, seen here with the Secretary and Treasurer of the Pharos Lodge.

Headmaster with Secretary and Treasurer Handing over cheque for £750 towards new orchestral instruments

The inaugural Festival of the Federation of School Lodges was held in 1949. Since then, the Federation has flourished and now comprises 173 Member Lodges nationwide, including those affiliated with colleges and universities.

The Pharos Lodge

All founding members of the Lodge were either alumni or staff (past and present) of Dover Grammar School for Boys as of 1950. For many years, “The Pharos” has served as the name of the School Magazine. Both the original purpose of the Pharos and the School motto, “Fiat Lux,” hold significant meaning within Freemasonry, prompting the Founders to adopt them for the Lodge.

Membership was initially limited to former pupils or staff of Dover Grammar School for Boys until 1993, when the decision was made to open membership to individuals who meet the high standards of moral conduct established by the Founders, thereby safeguarding the Lodge’s future. If you reflect these values, you may be eligible to join.

If you would like to contact the lodge please email the webmaster giving details of how we might assist you and get in touch.

Federation of School Lodges 2025

The Pharos Lodge in its 75th year proudly hosts the 77th Federation of School Lodges Festival

Back in July 1950, the “Dover Grammar School Magazine” reported on a very special day:

“On Saturday, April 29th, 1950, some five hundred members of Masonic Lodges from all over the county came to witness the consecration, by Lord Cornwallis, of a new Lodge—our own, the Pharos No. 6967 on the register of the Grand Lodge of England—at the Dover Grammar School for Boys.”

Fast forward 75 years, and here we are in 2025, celebrating that milestone in style. Hosting the Federation of School Lodges Festival was a huge honour for us, and all the more exciting because no Lodge in East Kent had ever done so before!

The school isn’t our usual meeting place—we last met there in November 2021, just before the old building was pulled down. So to be welcomed into the brand-new building was a real treat, and we’re especially grateful to Headmaster Philip Horstrup for making it possible.

Festival Day

The day began with a cheerful “Meet & Greet” at the Holiday Inn, where our Worshipful Master welcomed members, guests and visitors before everyone set off together—by car and coach—for the school.

Once settled, the President, R.W. Bro. Mark Constant, opened the Business Meeting with thanks to everyone who had travelled from far and wide to be there. The highlight was the presentation of the much-coveted  “Travelling Gavel”. With two Lodges tied for numbers, it was the Old Oakhamian Lodge No. 8033 that carried it home, thanks to the longest journey made.

Worshipful Master receives his guests

Left to right: W.Bro. Howard Pashley, PAsGChap, W.Bro. Terry Hall, SLGR (FSL Chairman), Sir David Wootton, PDepGM, W.Bro. Mark Pitchers, Pharos W.M.  R.W. Bro Mark Constant, FSL President, W.Bro Graham Chisnell, APGM, R.W. Bro. Jeffrey Gillyon, PPGM

All masons that gathered for the meeting
Those assembled for the meeting

A quick change of furniture and we were ready for the Lodge Meeting itself. We were delighted to welcome W. Bro. Graham Chisnell, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, representing the Provincial Grand Master of East Kent, followed by the Federation President and his Escort.

W. Bro. John Hubbard, Joint Secretary of the Federation, called the roll:  28 Lodges, 4 Chapters, and 2 Mark Lodges represented—a fantastic turnout.

One of the day’s highlights was W. Bro. Chisnell’s talk, “Indissoluble Links Between Masonry and Education”. Drawing on examples from around the country, and of course our own history at Dover Grammar School, he reminded us just how important it is to share the values of Freemasonry with younger generations.

With that inspiring message, the Lodge was closed and everyone made their way back to the Holiday Inn.

An Afternoon at the Mill

While the meetings were underway, our guests enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at the “Crabble Corn Mill”. Cream teas, live music, and even a free guided tour of the Mill kept everyone smiling. A big thank you goes to the staff, who looked after our ladies so thoughtfully.

Crabble Corn Mill, Dover
Crabble Corn Mill, Dover

The Banquet

The celebrations carried on in the evening with a sparkling glass of Prosecco, tasty canapés, and then a superb meal in the Holiday Inn’s “Grand Marquee”. Ninety-two of us sat down together in a truly beautiful setting.

Top Table at the Festive Board

Left to right: W.Bro. Roger Odd, R.W. Bro Mark Constant, FSL President, Sir David Wootton, PDepGM, W.Bro. Mark Pitchers, Pharos W.M.  

And alongside them:

Top Table continued

Right to left: Mrs Trish King, W. Bro. Ian King, DC, W. Bro. Graham Cuthbert, PrGDC, Mrs Carolyn Pitchers.

A highlight of the evening was seeing the “Travelling Gavel” formally presented to the Old Oakhamian Lodge by R.W. Bro. Mark Constant—a proud moment indeed.

Presenting the Travelling Gavel
The Traveling Gavel, presented to the Old Oakhamian Lodge by R.W. Bro Mark Constant.
Masons at the Tables 3
Masons at the festival enjoying the meal

Masons at the Tables 1Masons at the Tables 2

 

 

 

 

 

See You Again Soon!

If you’d like to visit Pharos Lodge in Dover, our meetings take place on the “third Saturday” of October, November, January, March (Installation), and May. To book, just drop us a line at sec.pharos6967@outlook.com

It’s been such a pleasure to welcome you all this year, and we’re already looking forward to the next gathering: 15th August 2026 at Oakham. Do book early—it promises to be a busy one!

Fraternal best wishes,

W. Bro. Arthur Hornby, PPGSwdB

Secretary, Pharos Lodge (6967)

FSL Rep. Kent & Sussex

Summer 2025 Newsletter

The Pharos Lodge celebrating 75 years;
a member of
The Federation of School Lodges

The following is an excerpt from the Dover Grammar School Magazine ‘The Pharos’ in July 1950.

‘On Saturday, April 29th, 1950, Some five hundred members of Masonic Lodges from all over the county had come to witness the consecration by Lord Cornwallis of a new Lodge—our own, the Pharos No. 6967 on the register of the Grand Lodge of England, in the Great Hall at the Dover Grammar School for Boys.

To begin with, it would be difficult to find a finer setting for the mediæval splendour of such an occasion than that offered by the School Hall as it had been laid out, with devoted care and attention, by some of the founders. When everyone was seated round the huge square carpet covering the floor of the Hall, there could rarely have been seen a finer spectacle’.

On the 29th April 2000, with guests including the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, three Assistant Provincial Grand Masters and the Provincial Grand Secretary, the lodge celebrated 50 years and for the first time the Chair of King Solomon had a Master in occupation for a second time, WBro. Lionel Bish.

A lot has changed in the last 25 years but I am pleased to report that the Pharos Lodge, 6967, has a positive future ahead!

So on to this year, 2025, 17th of May we celebrated our 75th Anniversary.

Installing Officers 2025
The W.M. and his Officers at the 75th Anniversary Meeting

A well-attended meeting witnessed the Presentation of the ‘First Degree Tracing Board’ by WBro Roy Skelton, something few have witnessed. This, followed by a 5-course meal, made for a memorable occasion. As members of the Federation of School Lodges, we were pleased to welcome WBro John Hubbard, one of the Joint Secretary’s as an Honoured Guest, emphasising our connection with the Federation

In 1946 fourteen school Lodges, mainly not meeting in London, decided to set up a grouping to further the ethos held by Lodges formed to pursue the unique character of the member’s schools within their Lodges. They decided to call the organisation the Federation of School Lodges and now comprises over 170 Lodges across the country. Its present President is RW Bro Mark Constant, Provincial Grand Master in the Province of Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire.

The first Annual Festival was held in 1948 and, except for 2020 (the ‘COVID’ year), has held one ever since. Festivals have been hosted by Lodges from as far afield as Truro to Blackpool, from Cardiff to York.

As a major part of our celebration we have been given the honour of hosting the Federation Annual Festival, a privilege never given to a lodge in the Province of East Kent before. With guests and visitors coming from across England and Wales, a lot of work has gone into the preparations. The Representative for Kent and Sussex has had a busy schedule visiting Federated lodges in his region promoting the event, a job I’m sure other regional reps have likewise been doing.

Visit to Lodge William D'Aeth, West Kent
The most recent visit to William D’Aeth, West Kent Front and Centre, WBro Dan Unthank, APGM and WBro Wayne Gardner, Worshipful Master

At the time of writing, the Festival is only 8 weeks away. If you would like to attend, please book soon. Details and booking forms are available on the following websites, www.schoollodges.org.uk or www.pharoslodge.org.uk or by emailing arthur.fsl@outlook.com

Main Programme
From 12.00 pm Tea / Coffee & biscuits in the Grand Marquee, Holiday Inn, Whitfield
12:00 pm – 1.30 pm Registration at the Holiday Inn
From 1.30 pm Transfer to Dover Grammar School for Boys
2.15 – 3.00 pm FSL Annual Business Meeting – Dover Grammar School for Boys School Hall.
3.15 – 4.45 pm Lodge Meeting – the School Hall
Featuring a talk by WBro Mike Webb (former Town Centre Manager and former Town Clerk). He will be taking a quirky look at the history of Dover and the town’s Mayors since the 11th century, plus outlining the connections between the Lodge and the Grammar School.
4.45 – 5.30 pm Return to Holiday Inn, Whitfield. A self-paying bar will be open.
(Time for Ladies to change at hotel or Holiday Inn, if required)
5:30 – 6:30 pm Reception – pre-prandial drinks in the Grand Marquee, Holiday Inn,
6:30 pm Festival Banquet
9:00 pm “Happy have we met”

Accompanying Persons’ Afternoon Programme
2.00 pm Assemble at Holiday Inn, Whitfield for transport to Crabble Corn Mill, River.
2.30 pm (Cream Tea and Live Music).
2.45 – 4.45pm Presentation and optional guided Tour of Mill, followed by light refreshments with entertainment from the Dover Ukulele Players.
5.00 pm Return to Holiday Inn,
5.30 pm Join main programme (time for changing at hotel if required – alternatively, a room for changing, etc., will be available at Holiday Inn.

Hail and Farewell 2024

Due to the great success of last years Hail and Farewell, planning is well underway for this years.

So reserve the 24th February 18:30 for 19:00 till late at the Dover Masonic centre.  Dancing to Elton Towers – one of the best cabaret acts in the south east.

All this and a 4 course dinner for just £35.

You can book with our treasurer at john.pharos6967@gmail.com 

Dietary requirements must be given at booking.  

POster of Elton Towers

Christmas Newsletter 2023

Greetings brethren, I hope you have had a great Christmas and digested all of that lovely festive fare.

It’s been quite a few months since I was actually able to see my computer screen properly, but after treatment just over a week ago I can resume regular communications with you all.

Firstly to lodge business matters. For those of you that were at our last meeting you will remember that a vote on a change to our By Laws could not proceed due to the wording being incorrect. I can now, with the support of the Provincial Office, submit the changes in the correct format to the Provincial Grand Master subject to the approval of the majority of the lodge members at the January meeting. At our next meeting we will be passing our latest entered apprentice.

To try and make everyone’s planning a bit easier for the coming year we have posted a page with the dates of our meetings in 2024/25, lodges of instruction and GPC ‘s including times and rooms. It would help the lodge a great deal if you would look at these and let me know as far in advance as possible if you cannot attend, especially if you hold active office. I will be able to give more information regarding what ceremonies we expect to hold through the year after the January GPC.

Federation of School Lodges.

As most of you should know by now I am a great promoter of our membership to the Federation. In the Province of East Kent there are now seven member lodges in total. Now that I am mobile again it is my hope to visit all of them when I can to show support. They are based as far apart as Cranbrook to Ramsgate, Dover to Rochester with Canterbury in the middle. A group of us regularly attend the Annual Festival and are looking forward to next years in Kimbolton. Please consider joining us as the following year, 2025, we are hosting it in the new school buildings! I can assure you that a lot of work is involved and the help and support of lodge members is fundamental to making it a success.

Finally, some news about some of our elder brethren. I am pleased to say that I have recently, along with our Worshipful Master, been able to visit W.Bro. Alan Copp in his care home and present him with a ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ to mark his becoming an Honorary Member.

On the same day we also visiting W.Bro. Denis Bond at the William Harvey Hospital. Bro. Peter Burville has returned home and I will be visiting in the next couple of days. I was also able to go to Deal with Roy to visit ‘Uncle Bill’ and wish him a happy Christmas.

Enjoy the rest of the holiday and I look forward to seeing you all (literally) in January,

W.Bro. A. Hornby, PPrDepGReg

Secretary of the Pharos Lodge (6967)

August Newsletter 2023

Good Day Brethren from your secretary, as always I hope you are keeping well. Much to tell you about, and hopefully things you will find interesting and will support.

    Meetings

Having undertaken a consultation with members, of those that replied all were in favour of moving our April meeting to May, but the moving our financial year date was deemed unnecessary and likely to cause confusion. With that in mind I have amended the proposed changes accordingly, and will be publishing a new updated copy of our bye-laws for consideration and a forthcoming meeting. If possible I would like to give a ‘Notice of Motion’ at our October meeting, leading to a vote on these changes in November. These updated bye-laws would then need to ratified by our Provincial team and ultimately UGLE. I have already received various apologies from qualifying members unable to attend these meeting, so if you are not available, please let me know.

Social

As you have probably noticed, for the first time in many years we have not arranged a lodge BBQ. This is not an oversight, just a lack of availability of a suitable site. We do have an opportunity however to meet socially, and support a charitable fund-raising event, by supporting the Septemberfest! On the 16th of September, being held at the Owl Barn riding stables at St. Margarets at Cliff. I have booked a stall for Pharos and was planning to take a table, gazebo and literature advertising our lodge in the hope other members would come to ’meet and greet’ the public with the aim of attracting new members. Unfortunately, due to failing eyesight, I can no longer drive! There is a bus service but I am hoping someone can help by transporting things to the site. Please let me know if you can help! There is a bar so we can use the occasion to ‘chill’ before we return to our labours in the lodge.

Plans for our WM’s Ladies Night on Saturday 24th February next year are well under way. WBro Garry Steed has once again booked a cabaret act that is guaranteed to sell out, so when it is officially announced, get your tickets booked early (there will be an initial limit of 60).

Federation of School Lodges

As most of you probably know, there is a small group of us that are regular attendees of the annual Federation Festival. This event is hosted by a different lodge each year, attracting masons from all over England and Wales. It brings with it prestige and national recognition This year our WM Bob Duffy, Treasurer John Cockram and his wife, Roger Gabriel, myself and my wife, all made the journey. On the Friday evening a social gathering was held at a local curry house, with 20 attendees, including wives and partners. A wonderful evening was had by all until, on returning to the hotel, Bob slipped and fell, resulting in suspected serious damage to his face and wrist. The result was he was homeward bound Saturday morning. Get well soon Bob!

On the Saturday the Federation has a Business Meeting where events of the past year are discussed along with other issues such as forthcoming Festivals, followed by the host lodges meeting. The day is rounded off by the Festival Banquet, which is a white table event to which wives, partners and non-masons are invited. This year 160 sat down to dine!

Brethren seated at dinner
Members of the Pharos Lodge and their wives dining with the just retired Chairman of the Federation, WBro. Michael Button.

Why have I gone into such detail? Because brethren, in 2025, our 75th anniversary year we, the Pharos Lodge, will be hosting the festival in Dover!!!!!

The Pharos at Dover Castle

Brief background to symbolism and history of Pharos Lodge 6967.

The Pharos dates from the second Roman invasion, being erected around A.D.43. It is the oldest existing building in the country.

Two of these structures were built as lighthouses, to mark the entrance to Dover Harbour.

The Pharos was the eastern beacon, with the other situated to the west of the harbour. This latter structure no longer exists but its remains are known as the Bredenstone, after which local Bredenstone Lodge, (no 8093), is named.

For many years “The Pharos” has been the name of the School magazine and an artist’s impression of the building has been incorporated on its front cover for well over 100 years.

Former pupils of the school are known as “Old Pharosians”.

The original function of the Pharos and the School motto Fiat Lux (“Let there be Light”; Genesis 1.3), have significant Masonic meaning. Accordingly, the Lodge Founders adopted both into the Lodge crest.

Special Meeting held on 20th November at DGSB

Dover Boys’ Grammar School opened in 1904 and moved to its present location on Astor Avenue in 1934. Its splendid architecture benefits from both Gothic and classical influences, crowned by its iconic crenellated tower.

Dover Grammar School Old Buildings

During World War II, the school was requisitioned by the Royal Navy as a WRNS station. For the war’s duration, pupils and staff were evacuated to Ebbw Vale, in South Wales.
The school’s alumni include a respectable sprinkling of captains of industry, industrialists, scientists and other high achievers. More unusually, the school is also the alma mater for Topper “Headon”, drummer with the multi-million, record-selling group, “The Clash”. Another pupil was David Elleray, who refereed the 1994 F.A. Cup Final (Manchester Utd v Chelsea), plus 78 international matches and hundreds of premiership games.
Sadly, after providing a seat of learning for thousands of boys, over nearly ninety years, time has taken its toll on the building. Plans are now well advanced to demolish the existing building and to build a new school.
The current building has enjoyed Masonic connections throughout its lifespan. It was officially opened by the then Duke of York, who later ascended the throne as King George VI. He is both father of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and uncle to The Duke of Kent, the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England.
In 1919, following service in the Royal Navy, during the First World War, King George VI was initiated into Navy Lodge, (No. 2612), where his grandfather, King Edward VII had been the founding Master. The Duke of Edinburgh was initiated in the same Lodge, in 1952.
The King joined other Lodges and degrees and was appointed Senior Grand Warden of the United Grand Lodge in 1923.

The Victory Stamps
THE VICTORY STAMPS


After the Second World War, King George VI wrote that: “Freemasonry has been one of the strongest influences on my life”. To underline this, he helped create a postage stamp, (part of the 1946 Victory Issue), which is embellished with Masonic symbols.
Following in such illustrious footsteps, came the Founders of the Pharos Lodge 6967. All of them were either Old Boys or teachers at the school. They were led by W.Bro. John C. Booth MA (Oxon), (nicknamed “The Baron”), headmaster from 1936 to1960.
The consecration, in the school’s grand hall, was directed by Lord Cornwallis, on Saturday, April 29th, 1950, thus adding another strand to the school’s historic fabric.
Since that date, the Pharos Lodge has held its meetings in Dover’s impressive Masonic Hall, a venue that some dozen Lodges and side degrees call home.
Fortunately, however, links have been maintained between school and Lodge. This cooperation enabled the Lodge to return to the school, where it all began, for a final meeting, prior to the demolition.
Considerable consternation ensued when the school advised that, as construction was ahead of schedule, demolition was imminent. This meant that the unique Lodge meeting, scheduled for February 2022 had to be dragged forward, screaming and writhing, to November 2021.
Close, positive and rapid cooperation took place between the Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge. Following endless head scratching over the minutiae of the Book of Constitutions, late-night candles burned, before appropriate authorisation was forthcoming.
Finally, success was achieved. This was thanks to the Herculean labours of Lodge Secretary, W.Bro. Arthur Hornby and I.P.M. W.Bro. Roger Gabriel. Heartfelt thanks are also due to W.Bro. Bob McLester of Bredenstone Lodge, and to W.Bro. Garry Steed, who transported all the required Lodge furniture.
On the eventful, meeting day, Freemasons from far and wide assembled to change the hall into a temple, using the regalia and equipment provided by Province. Against overwhelming odds, involving time limits, transportation requirements, setting up, dismantling and layout, everything worked to perfection. By the time the meeting started, beating hearts had slowed and there wasn’t a ruffled feather in sight!

Converting the Hall to a Temple

CONVERTING THE GREAT HALL INTO A TEMPLE

A splendid backdrop; the hall being readied for a Masonic meeting, for the first time in over 70 years
Despite the spectre of Covid, some members and visitors travelled long distances to attend.
Among our guests were R.W.Bro Roger Odd, our former Deputy Provincial Grand Master, who continues to be a strong supporter of the Federation of School Lodges, as well as the Joint Secretary of the Federation, himself.
The ceremony undertaken was a double initiation. How appropriate, on this special occasion, therefore, that both candidates were school teachers.
The only twinge of regret was that the delicate task of dismantling the splendid school organ was already underway. Our sincere thanks, therefore, to W.Bro. Nigel Sanne of United Industrious Lodge 31, for bringing his own keyboard to enlivening the meeting.
As the lasts notes faded, the highly-successful and emotional meeting ended and a swarm of human locusts swept through the Lodge room, converting it to a condemned grand hall, full of memories.To our two new brothers. We welcome you wholeheartedly to our Lodge and hope you spend many happy years with us.
The day ended with a highly-convivial festive board at the Masonic Hall. The four-course meal and companionship were splendid, making a brilliant day perfect.
The concept for the Pharos meeting was strongly supported by Mr. Philip Horstrup, Headmaster, to whom we are grateful.
Pharos Lodge was pleased to present a cheque for £500.00 towards the “Replacement Piano” appeal.

 

left to right
W.Bro. Arthur Hornby, Mr Phillip Horstrup, W.Bro Roger Gabriel

Mr Horstrup is standing directly under the Pharos symbol for the school house off that name.
To round off the Pharos year, a large number of members, family and friends dined together, at a local hostelry. Despite the constraints that have ruled our lives for the last 2 years, the future of the Pharos is secure.

Conceived and written by: W Bro Mike Webb

May Newsletter 2021

Greetings Brethren, I hope you are still keeping safe and well.

Planned return to normal meetings.

There has been much discussion and speculation about the resumption of Masonic Activity and how the Pharos Lodge will be affected. Although some lodges are seeking to hold ‘Emergency’ meetings in the summer, the workload of our lodge means we can resume on our normal meeting dates. With two Installation dates missed due to the pandemic, the emergency rules from U.G.L.E. allow us to Elect and Install our Worshipful Master at our first meeting, subject to a Dispensation from the Provincial Grand Master. This has been granted for our October meeting! As yet I do not have a date for the re-opening of the Dover Masonic Hall, but I am hopeful that we will be able to resume Lodges of Instruction in September. The Secretaries meeting is booked for Wednesday 11th August when meeting and other dates are formalised. I will organise a GPC (virtual or otherwise) before then as our April meeting (2022) has problems regarding Lodges of Instruction.

The Dover Grammar School for Boys

As most of you are probably aware, over the last few years I have bee trying to get the lodge and the Dover Grammar School for Boys working together for the benefit of both. Thanks to the considerable help of our Worshipful Master, Roger Gabriel, much progress has been made. The lodge had planned to have a meeting at the school in February this year, but once again circumstances meant this could not go ahead. Our next projected date was February 2022 but guess what, Covid has interfered in the most unusual way. With so much work in the building industry delayed, the construction of the new school building is ahead of schedule!   Therefore we are at the planning stage for one of our regular meetings to be held there. I will keep you updated!

The Federation of School Lodges.

After a visit to the Federation Festival with Bro Bob Duffy in August 2019, I had set myself a quest to encourage lodges belonging to the FSL in the province to visit each other more frequently and if possible, have a representative attend following Festivals. This had an encouraging start. We had a team of 4, accompanied by our wives, booked in at a hotel in Bath last October. Due to the postponement this is now due to take place this October. If you are interested in going, please let me know as soon as possible. Why not visit the FSL website for more information?

The Federation is set up on an area basis, with the Provinces of East and West Kent constituting one such area. I have been approached by the Chairman to take on the role of Area Representative for Kent, a privilege that I have accepted. This from  the Chairman of the Federation;

After a year of Covid restrictions and few masonic meetings (even by Zoom or MS Teams), I am writing with some long-awaited and really good news: the Federation’s Annual Festival and Business Meeting is back on !

At a specially convened Zoom “meeting”, last night, the Management Committee gave the go-ahead for the resumption of “business as usual” and I wanted to provide an immediate update to you and your members.  The government plans to lift all Covid restrictions on or about the 21st June and, as soon as it does, you will receive full details of the new arrangements for the Federation’s 2021 Festival;  so, please make a note of the date and place:  23rd October, 2021, Kingswood School, Bath, Somerset.  The Lodge/Festival Secretary of Kingswood School Lodge will send you full details in June and inform you of the booking arrangements and hotels availability.

I am extremely pleased to be able to send you this preliminary announcement.  Please pass the information on to the members of your Lodge/Chapter.

Charity News

As last year’s Festival and other planned events did not take place, the Management Committee decided that the usual charitable donations to the hosting school and other associated organisational costs should be provided to an alternative worthy cause.  As a result, a donation of £4,000 was made to the Together Trust Schools www.togethertrust.org.uk for the purchase of special laptops to facilitate home learning by its pupils.  The Together Trust has two schools dedicated to special needs pupils.  It helps to break down barriers to education for all young people, helping them learn and grow at their own pace.  Because it recognises that every student is different, it creates individual learning programmes matched with a core team of therapists, helping every young person grow into the adult they want to be.  The Trust has six specialist learning environments supporting 300 students from across the North West, from the age of 5 all the way to 25 and provides specialist environments for young people with social emotional and mental health needs, autism services, vocational provisions and a purpose-built college for students with learning, physical disabilities, complex health needs and autism.  The Trust confirmed that they did have a number of students on home learning and that, as Special Schools and a charity, they had not benefited from the government’s Covid laptops-for-schools initiative.  Therefore, we made the donation to the Together Trust on condition that it was to be ring-fenced for the purchase of the computers and that they would be logo-d up with “FSL”.   Time being of the essence, this action by the Committee had to be immediate;  it will, of course, be set down for ratification at the ABM during the Festival in Bath. 

Kind Regards, Yours S&F.  Stay Safe.

RONALD

Bro. Prof. Ronald Barham, MStJ, LLM, PhD, FCIArb.(rtd)
PProvGSwdB (East Lancashire)
Old Blackburnian Lodge, 7933
Chairman of the Federation of School Lodges

50 Years of Masonic service

On the 17th of April 1971, a Mr. Roger John Cork was initiated into the Pharos Lodge. At the age of 24 he would, by todays standards, be considered quite a young man to be making such a commitment.

Passed on the 20th of November 1971 and then Raised on the 15th of January the following year, he took his first step on the ladder in 1976 as a Steward, holding that position for two years. In 1978 he took the Junior Wardens office, progressing to the Chair of King Solomon in 1981. In 1989 the Province honoured him with the rank of Past Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.

In March 1988, Roger joined the Seven Sisters Lodge (L8539) in Sussex where he became Master in 1997. His Masonic career did not stop there. In May 2005 the Lodge of Sincerity (L8531) in South Wales welcomed him into their ranks, where he once more sat in the Chair of King Solomon in 2009. He was rewarded for all his hard work by the Provinces of both Sussex, PPAGDC, and South Wales, PPGSwdB. As well as his work within the Craft he held office in Chapter of Sker (C8204) and other side orders.

Roger regularly made the journey to Dover for Lodge meetings, greatly surprising one Mr. Mike Webb (an old school friend of Roger), when the blindfold came off at his initiation.

In normal circumstances his 50 Year Certificate would have been presented at our April meeting. With the pandemic restrictions and the resulting suspension of Masonic activity this was of course not possible. After several discussions with his wife Ann, I thought it would be a nice gesture from the lodge to deliver the certificate personally to his home. So, on the 24th of April I, accompanied by WBro. Mike Webb, headed to his Seaford home. Due to ill health Roger was not able to be present, so we joined Ann in her back garden for tea and cakes and asked her to forward the congratulations of the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren.

At this point I would like to thank Ann for her hospitality and the help she has given me in filling in some of the blanks in my record of Rogers Masonic Career.

Stay safe, stay well,

Arthur

W.Bro. A. Hornby, PPrDepGReg
Secretary of the Pharos Lodge (6967)