SUPREME GRAND COUNCIL EASTERN JURISDICTION OF CANADA ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS

Transcription

1 PROCEEDINGS OF THE SUPREME GRAND COUNCIL EASTERN JURISDICTION OF CANADA ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS ONE HUNDRED-FORTY FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2012 PROCEEDINGS

2 Most Puissant Grand Master Gary Charles Patterson

3 Most Illustrious Companion Gary Charles Patterson Most Puissant Grand Master 2012/2013 Gary Charles Patterson was born 16 May 1947 in Kentville, NS, and was raised on a South Mountain farm, along with a Brother and a Sister. He learned at an early age that hard work was a virtue and necessary if one was to make a contribution to life in general and to the family unit in particular. As a youth, he was encouraged to attend Sunday School and was Confirmed a Member of St James Anglican Church in Kentville. He received his early education in a one room school house, finishing up at Central Kings Rural High School in Cambridge. After High School he worked at several jobs in an attempt to find a suitable career and also dabbled part time in agriculture. His intention at this time was to go back to school to become an Electrician but was sidetracked while waiting to be enrolled at Technical School and accepted his first full time job with McMurdo Studio, in Kentville, where he spent seven years as a Photographer and Dark Room Technician. He did though pursue his original plan and began his Apprenticeship and Formal training in the Electrical Trade through NSIT. After working for several local Contractors, he accepted a position with the Dept of National Defense at Canadian Forces Camp Aldershot, where he retired after twenty seven years as the Coordinator for Engineering Services with the Construction Engineering Section. Duty was also a word he learned early in life and as a young Man served the Canadian Army as a Reserve Soldier with the West Nova Scotia Regiment. He took his release though when his regular job would no longer allow his participation as a part time Soldier. Later in life he was called back to service and upon receiving a Queens Commission, was asked to accept one of the most rewarding positions of his career, that of Army Cadet Instructor. Charged with the welfare and training of a group of young men and women between the ages of thirteen and nineteen, he served several years including five years as Commanding Officer of 2444 Kings County Army Cadet Corps. The Community was also an important part of his life and over the past years has served as a former member of the Kentville Volunteer Fire Department, A Boy Scout Leader working with Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, a Director with the Army Cadet League of Canada (NS Branch), and a Zone Coordinator with the Kentville EMO. Today he is a member of Kings Branch no 6 RCL, a Director with the 3

4 Valley Cardiac Rehab Society, and Past Warden with St James Anglican Church in Kentville. At present, he lives in South Alton with his wife Nancy and his Dog. His two Sons, Charlie and John, both live in the Halifax area, close enough to visit yet not home for supper every night. He enjoys the beauties of nature and the quiet resolve of country living. Companion Patterson was first introduced to Freemasonry in 1970 when under the guidance of Brothers C Roger MacLellan, Weldon (Bud) Atkinson, Terry L Meek, and Ronald H Finney, was raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason under the Warrant of Kentville Lodge No 58. As his Masonic education began to increase, his desire to learn also increased and was induced to explore the path of the York Rite. He was exalted a Royal Arch Companion with Cornwallis Chapter No 26 in 1982 and in1997 became a Select Master with Adoniram Council No 10. Companion Patterson takes his Masonic activities very seriously and fortunate enough at this point in his life, to be in a position to commit to a number of activities within Freemasonry. Some of his efforts include; President, Kentville Masonic Association Past Chairman and Secretary, Kings District Masonic Education Committee, currently Education Officer Past Secretary, and active member of Kings District Masonic Advisory Board PM and Secretary, Kentville Lodge No 58, AF&AM, and Recipient Meritorious Service Award. Grand Representative for the Grand Lodge of Guinea, Past Elected Rep to the BGP, Past Grand Standard Bearer, and currently Grand Lecturer, GLNS. Past Master, Royal Standard Lodge No 398 EC (UGLE) PHP and Archivist, Cornwallis Chapter No 26, RAM, Recipient Meritorious Service Award, Past District Grand Superintendent, Past Grand Lecturer, and Past Grand High Priest. Past Grand High Priest Honorary of the Grand Chapter of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Honorary Member of the Grand Chapter of New Hampshire and The Grand Chapter of Maine. Member, Valley Chapter No 16, RAM Preceptor, Mt Zion Preceptory No 73, Knights Templar, Registrar, and Past Provincial Grand Prior PTIM, Adoniram Council No 10, Royal and Select Masters Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, and currently Most Puissant Grand Master. He is Grand Representative for the Grand Council of Tennessee and by virtue of his Grand Appointments, has served several years on the Advisory Board including Chairman of the Board. 4

5 Past Commander Noah, MJA Wagner Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners, currently Grand Commander Noah. Past Sovereign and Past Recorder Rupert H MacNeill Conclave No 30, Red Cross of Constantine Past Governor, NS York Rite College No 132, Member of Royal Valley College No 165, Associate Regent and Distinguished Recipient of the Order of the Purple Cross. Knight of the Eastern Canada Priory No 19, (KYCH) Knights of the York Cross of Honour Past Supreme Ruler NS Conclave No 6, Past Grand Guarder, and Past Grand Bow bearer of the Brotherhood of David and Jonathan of Canada, 6th Pillar. St Andrews Tabernacle, Holy Royal Arch Kt Templar Priests Noble, AAONMS, Philae Shriners, Assistant Marshal, and Past President Eastern Valley Shrine Club Assistant Chief, Neptune Council No 71, Universal Craftsmen Council of Engineers 5

6 ONE HUNDRED FORTY FIFTH ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Upon the entrance of the Most Puissant Grand Master, accompanied by the Grand Council Officers, the One Hundred and Forty First Annual Assembly of the Supreme Grand Council, Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters, was opened in the Glengarry Best Western Truro, Nova Scotia on May 4, 2012 at 8:30 am, IN FULL FORM by the Most Puissant Grand Master Roy Ernest Lively. The following Grand Council Officers were at their Stations: M. Ill. Comp. Roy Ernest Lively Grand Master Rt. Ill. Comp. Gary Charles Patterson Deputy Grand Master Rt. Ill. Comp. W. H. John Baird Grand PCW Rt. Ill. Comp. Laurie M. Bishop Grand Capt of the Guard Rt. Ill. Comp. Charles R. MacKinlay Grand Treasurer M. Ill. Comp. John R. Dollimount Grand Recorder M. Ill. Comp. H C Lindsay Woodhams Grand Recorder (Emeritius) V. Ill. Comp. David Nicks (Pro Tem) Grand Chaplain Rt. Ill. Comp. E. Carson Jackson Grand Master of Ceremonies V. Ill. Comp. George P Hill Grand Organist V. Ill. Comp. Edward V. Greenfield Grand Conductor of Council V. Ill. Comp. Lorne John Braye Grand Steward V. Ill. Comp. Wayne Hollis Grand Standard Bearer V. Ill. Comp Peter Outhouse Grand Sentinel COMMITTEES The Grand Master announced the following Committees: General Assembly Chairman: Registration: Condition of the Order: Installations: Grand Royal Ark Mariner Lodge Grand Council Scrutinizers: Robin Lawry Graham Campbell George O Leary, Hugh John Palmer Charles Rutt, George O Leary Frederick Healey Thomas Barter, Leslie Graham, Arnold Hatfield The Registration Committee reported that 15 Councils were represented at the Grand Assembly. There being a constitutional number of Councils present, the Grand Master proclaimed the One Hundred and Forty Fifth Annual Assembly legal to legislate the business of this Grand Council. It was moved by the Deputy Grand Master on behalf of the Advisory Board that honorary rank be conferred on all eligible guests from Sister Grand Jurisdictions. Seconded by the Grand Principal Conductor of the Work. Carried. 6

7 RECEPTION OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS The Grand Master of Ceremonies retired and escorted the guests from Sister Grand Jurisdictions to the Altar where they were introduced, greeted by the Grand Master, accorded Grand Honors and escorted to the East. Representing the Grand Council of Western Canada Royal and Select Masters - Rt. Ill. James Elton; PGIG Representing the Grand Council of Ontario Royal and Select Masters: - Rt. Ill. Comp. Raymond Boal; Grand Captain of the Guard - Rt. Ill. Comp. Prince D. Selvaraj; Grand Marshall Representing the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Ohio - Ill. Comp. John A. Johnson; the Grand Representative of Ohio to the Supreme Grand Council of the Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada Representing the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Maine - Rt. Ill. Comp. William Sawyer; the Grand Representative of Maine to the Supreme Grand Council of the Eastern jurisdiction of Canada RECEPTION OF CONCORDANT BODIES The Grand Master of Ceremonies retired and escorted the representatives of the Concordant Bodies to the altar where they were introduced, greeted by the Grand Master given Grand Honors and invited to a seat in the East: The York Rite Sovereign College of North America: Right Eminently Distinguished Brother Charles E. E. Rutt, Grand Governor for Nova Scotia. The Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests: Very Illustrious Knight Priest, Frederick A. Healey. The Covent General, Knights of the York Cross of Honor: Eminent Knight Gerald A. Riley, Personal Representative of the Grand Master General. The Sovereign Great Priory of Canada, Knights Templar: Most Eminent Knight W. Marshall Black, Past Supreme Grand Master. The Masonic and Military Order of Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders: Most Illustrious Knight Companion Douglas F. Draker GCC, Grand Sovereign. The Grand Conclave, Order of the Secret Monitor of Canada: Right Worthy Brother George R. O`Leary, Deputy Grand Supreme Ruler. Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Nova Scotia with Jurisdiction of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, Right Excellent Companion, M. Robert MacDonald: Grand Scribe. RECEPTION OF THE GRAND MASTER The Grand Master of Ceremonies retired and escorted Most Worshipful Bro. Barry S. Imber, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, AF & AM to the Altar, where he was introduced, escorted to the East, welcomed by the Grand Master, presented with the Gavel and accorded Grand Honors. 7

8 FLAG CEREMONY The Colour Party under the direction of MIC Gerald A. Riley was admitted and the flags of Canada, England, The United States of America, and Nova Scotia were presented and the appropriate Anthems were sung. RECEPTION OF PAST GRAND MASTERS The following Past Grand Masters were presented at the altar: H. C. Lindsay Woodhams W. Marshall Black Gerald A. Riley Charles E. E. Rutt Philip H. Henderson Frederick A. Healey Neil W. Astle 2003[H] Tabor Ted J. Caulier Kenneth C Crook 2006[H] George R. O`Leary Samuel Karrel 2008[H] Charles R. MacKinlay 2009[H] John R. Dollimount John Hugh Palmer The Grand Master Welcomed the Past Grand Masters and thanked them for their help and support during his year in office. Following Grand Honors, M. Ill. Comp. H.C.L. Woodhams expressed the thanks of the Past Grand Masters and pledged their continued support to this Grand Council. It was moved by the Grand Recorder seconded by the Deputy Grand Master that the Grand Master be empowered to change the order of business at his discretion. Carried. It was moved by the Grand Recorder seconded by the Grand Treasurer that the minutes of the 144 th Annual Assembly be accepted as printed and circulated in the 2011 proceedings. Carried. REGRETS Regrets were received from: Grand Council of New Hampshire MIC John Lingley Grand Council of Vermont MIC Charles Webber Grand Council of Massachusetts MIC Robert M. Johnson MIC W. Job Parsons RIC James Briggs MIC Gerald Budden RIC Allan Marshall MIC William Baldwin VIC Brian Dillon MIC G. Barrie MacLellan IC Harris Pipes IC Ian S. Robb 8

9 RECEPTION OF INSPECTORS-GENERAL The Grand Master welcomed the Inspectors General present, Frederick G. Donaldson (NS), Raymond W. Chapman (NB & PE) and Gerald Mayo (NL) and thanked them for their work on behalf of Grand Council. He then conferred Past Grand Rank of Rt. Ill. Past Grand Inspectors General on the above noted Companions including Allan Marshall (QC). RECEPTION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES The Grand Recorder read the names of the Grand Representatives and those present presented themselves at the Altar. The Grand Master welcomed them and requested that they convey his warm personal greetings to the Grand Councils that they have the honour to represent. Following Grand Honours, M. Ill. Comp. Charles E.E. Rutt, spoke on behalf of the Grand Representatives, and thanked the Grand Master for his kind words. GRAND MASTER S ADDRESS TO THE SUPREME GRAND COUNCIL EASTERN JURISDICTION OF CANADA ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS. It is a privilege for me to greet and welcome the Grand Representatives and Officers of Our Concordant Bodies. I am also very pleased to welcome all of our American and out of the province guests. I extend to you a most cordial welcome to Nova Scotia and trust you will enjoy your stay. It is my hope you will take back to your members something of value in exchange for the time you have committed to this annual event. I feel greatly honored to have had the opportunity to serve this Grand Jurisdiction in various capacities over the last several years. I have endeavored to do my duties and to carry out the responsibilities of the offices you have entrusted to my care. I find it extremely difficult to express in words my gratitude and affection for the precious gifts and beautiful memories you have given me. I will treasure them always. In my report I will endeavor to cover my visitations and function activities followed by a Central message of creating a dynamic leadership, spreading Masonic enlightenment to Cryptic Rite Masons, Masonic management, program planning and summarize the condition of the order. This being my last few hours in the Grand East where you so confidently placed me a year ago, I am pleased to be able to address you for the last time in my Masonic travels. My first words of thanks are extended to the Grand Inspectors General who worked so diligently and professionally on my behalf. Companions a more stellar performance would be hard to accomplish and I whole heartily thank each and every one of you for your dedication to your office and to the Royal Craft. The office of Grand Inspector general is no doubt one of the most important and respected offices in which one could be asked to serve. It carries with it a great 9

10 deal of responsibility and we as a Grand Order owe it to them to see they have all the training and knowledge we can bestow upon them to help meet the many challenges of the office. I also feel they should receive a small travel allowance to offset the high expenses they incur. During my visits to the councils throughout the jurisdiction I was well received on all occasions. Your meetings were well organized and well attended. I especially enjoyed the Question periods and I came away with a greater understanding of the problems facing the councils of the various districts. It was a special privilege to witness the conferring of the Super Excellent Master Degree on twenty seven candidates during my visit to Moncton. I thank the Councils and Lodges for their cordial invitations. I am grateful for your courteous manner and the many kindnesses extended to me. I thank all the Recorders and Scribes for sending me their notices. They kept me advised of the happenings within the jurisdiction. During my term my main theme was opening the door to other concordant bodies, visiting the Chapters, opening the lines of communication and working closer together with the Craft Lodges in an attempt to spread Masonic Enlightenment through greater knowledge and working together to fight a common foe Low membership and Lack of Participation. I issued dispensations to the Councils to encourage this exchange during the year. I made official visits with Chapters to Craft Lodges to speak on Concordant Bodies which I am pleased to say brought new members into the Royal Arch. This year I requested Rt. Ill. Companion George Mason to draft a presentation on the Cryptic Rite to be presented to the Chapters of Royal Arch Masons entitled The Circle of Perfection in Ancient Craft Masonry. This was accepted by the Advisory board, was printed and distributed to the councils for use. At the time of writing this report I am proud to state that Garden of the Gulf Council # 9 has five new candidates because of this presentation. During the year I attended the meetings of the Advisory Board and I wish to thank the Deputy Grand Master Rt. Ill. Companion Gary C. Patterson for his great work as chair of that group. I also thank him for representing me and this Grand Council by visiting Sister Grand Jurisdictions. During the year I put forward the idea of making the Cryptic Rite Charitable Foundation which raise funds for research in finding a cure for Alzheimer s and Parkinson s Diseases our main Charity. This item is to come before the membership for their consideration and I urge you to give it your full support. I extend my Thanks to my line officers for their loyal support this year. Special Thanks go to V. Ill. Companion E. Carson Jackson who acted as my Grand Master of Ceremonies. It is most difficult to put into words the affection and respect I hold for this Companion. During the last two years we had a serious problem with our membership Data Base it was old, outdated and reached the point where the Grand Recorder could no longer retrieve information from it. A gift of a new computer and office software was made to this Grand Council and in May I appointed M. Ill. Companion John Dollimount who had been tasked with the creation of a new Data Base as Assistant Grand Recorder to assist the Grand Recorder in transferring our records to the new system. This was a challenge and a lot of man hours went into the project. Today I am proud to report that all is well and we have an updated system that will serve us well into the future, thanks in no small part to M. Ill. Companions Woodhams and Dollimount. During the summer our Grand Recorder felt that after twenty two years of loyal service he would like to retire. Lofty has been a pillar of our Order. In his stead I appointed M. Ill. Companion 10

11 John Dollimount as Grand Recorder. Most Ill. Companion Lofty Woodhams agreed to assist the new Grand Recorder until after the Grand Assembly. It was nice to have two Grand Recorders this year it took the two of them to keep your Grand Master out of trouble. We will honor M. Ill. Companion Woodhams during the Grand Assembly. During the year you have noticed a banner preceding the Grand Master and placed in the east on his visits to your councils. This banner was designed by M. Ill. Companion John Dollimount and made by his wife Caroline. The banner was approved by the Advisory Board and was presented by me as a gift to the Grand Council as my Thanks for being given the honor of serving as your Most Puissant Grand Master. I appointed Companion Wayne Hollis as your first Grand Standard Bearer. A motion will be presented at the Grand Assembly to change the constitution to create this new office. The jewel and apron to accompany the office has been approved by the Advisory Board. The jewel was designed and presented by M. Ill. Companion John Dollimount while the apron which has been refurbished with the appropriate emblem was a gift from Rt. Ill. Companion Benjamin Grant. My Companions as I travelled this Grand Jurisdiction one very important item kept coming to mind travel and communication as it relates to the Advisory Board. This is a serious problem that must be corrected. The various Councils need our support and they need better representation at these meetings. It is impractical to expect Companions to travel from the extremes of this jurisdiction Newfoundland to Quebec to attend a two hour meeting. It is time for us to step into the 21 st century. I have advised the Advisory Board on Video Conferencing and have gone as far as designing the project. As the chairman of Public Relations for the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia and the Grand Chapter of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island I have purchased the online service Nefsis for the Grand Lodge, this service is now up and running. The cost for the service is $ per year. The Grand Chapter is thinking of coming on board and should Grand Council decide to become a partner the cost to us would be $ per year. Video conferencing can be used for the meetings of the Advisory Board and as an educational tool is limited only by one s imagination. Members in NL, NS and PE have been contacted to act hosts for their provinces. All will receive training from the Grand Lodge team via Video Conferencing. Personally I think this is a must for the Supreme Grand Council. Before I give my Central Message I want to thank the members of Chebucto-Richardson Council # 3 for their efforts to make this Grand Assembly a success I thank the registration chairman and his committee as well as the pre-registration and election committees My heartfelt Thanks to all in attendance here today and my very best wishes to our incoming Most Puissant Grand Master and his Officers. Central Message The councils are in a great position to become councils of education to Craft Lodge and Royal Arch Chapter members before they advance to become Knights Templar. When we joined Freemasonry we were informed that we take good men and make them better. As we advanced we were told that we would learn more about the Masonic mysticism of the Orders and would receive more signs, mystic words and steps. The members are still at a lost to what has transpired during their journey. Granted they have some idea of the rituals through memory of the first three degrees but in most cases this does not satisfy their curiosity. In the second degree they were informed about the seven liberal arts and sciences and that was where it ended. They are not informed how to take the information they have received and apply it in 11

12 their lives. They are tacitly admitting that there are areas in life about which they are not completely informed. They seek further light in their lives. Such an attitude of humility and searching is a major step towards learning and enlightenment. Allow me to establish at the outset of this discussion that the status or condition you find yourself in at the present with respect to your business, domestic or philosophical beliefs is the result of what you have created over your life. You are seeking a practical and livable philosophy, one that will help and guide you through life s problems and obstacles. However, let s establish another point at the outset. Although Masonic Mysticism offers a pragmatic way of dealing with our personal situation in life through physical and metaphysical principles members of Masonic mysticism must be willing to them on their own. They must fearlessly set aside outworn principles and throw out pattern and be willing to examine a different approach to life and it s complexities. This cannot be done for you. The Masonic order in particular that you as a member will be able to create for yourself will provide opportunities for greater inner enfoldment. You will not wait for an accident to happen or wish that things were better. You will systematically carve out your own niche in life. We know that opportunities present themselves throughout life and we formulate the conditions by which we may establish the kind of life that makes us happy. We have all said of others who seem so successful in a particular field or endeavor What a lucky person! He got it made! He got it really good in life! Setting aside the obvious fact that every person on earth has problems regardless of how comfortable he may appear we realize that most of the people we envy have spent years quietly creating their own environment. There are the classic examples of famous actors who many people constantly say were overnight Successes but if you closely examine their beginnings you will probably discover the bitter struggles, hardships and frustrations they had to endure before even the smallest avenue for advancement was opened to them. This is true of many professions. The question must now be asked - Are you willing to figuratively take your personality in hand and submit it to the courage needed to admit ignorance and submit to self reformation. It takes far more inner discipline to refine and perfect ourselves than it does to find a better job. Some of us view age as a condition that will hinder your quest for learning and inner growth. Let me state emphatically that if you consider yourself too young or too old is a self created obstacle that will effectively block your possible growth just as surely as if you put a brick wall in front of you. Let us examine the first case in point by way of example you may say I am too young to tie myself down to one philosophy; I want to experiment for several years and perhaps later settle on a way of life. To this I say you may visit a public library or perhaps a metaphysical store and obtain every book on the shelf relating to some area of Masonic mysticism, read each publication, visit numerous Masonic mystical Lodges and superficially examine a great many philosophies for a great many years. At the end of that time you will have gained a confusing cross section of viewpoints but not be knowledgeable in a single area and more importantly have derived only a minimum of self development. In truth you may have voluntarily missed valuable years in which you could have been dramatically discovering and unfolding yourself. Unfortunately many have done just that. What about those who consider themselves too old to learn? With regards to learning what true Masonic mysticism has to offer members it is my belief that no matter what your age, if you can read and understand what you read you can still lift yourself out of whatever rut you find yourself in. You can begin with faith and confidence that you will gain a clearer insight into yourself and 12

13 the world around you regardless of age and prevailing conditions. I believe without fear of contradiction that a truly sincere member is never too old to learn. We say that people are never too old to learn as long as they do not arbitrarily establish a relationship between advanced age and the ability to learn. In other words, if you have decided that after a certain age you will no longer be able to absorb new information then you have consciously conditioned yourself to come to a halt at that age. Actually, as we advance in age although the desire for physical acquisitions diminishes the desire for esthetical growth, for psychic unfolding quickens. There appears to be a proportionate lowering of physical drives and a concomitant rise of psychic goals as we grow older. We tend to become interested in the finer things in life; such as visiting museums or attending art lectures and musical concerts. We also tend to search deeper within ourselves for answers to many religious and philosophical questions. These questions are not always answered for us while we are engaged in making as much money as possible. While I do not negate the importance of living a comfortable life, I am saying that the truly important questions we all ask ourselves tend to remain unanswered regardless of income, business status, social condition or how much physical property we own. As a general rule the faculty of imagination does not diminish with age. The young person with an active imagination continues to retain this quality in later life. This faculty will aid you in your Masonic mystic studies. We do not have to look far to find examples of those who either began learning or continued growing at an advanced age. History is filled with examples of those who continued to contribute to the good of humanity well into maturity: Cato, the Roman philosopher began to study the Greek language at 80. Socrates, at an advanced age learned to play musical instruments. Plutarch began the study of Latin between 70 and 80. Rameau did not write a single Opera until he was in his 50 s. At 54 he wrote Castor et Pollux which was a great success as were most of his other works composed over the following twenty-three years. Verdi was pass 60 when he produced his greatest operas Aida and Othello. Benjamin Franklin did not begin his philosophical studies until he was over 50 and today he best remembered as a writer, inventor and philosopher. Here are a few others for your contemplation: Nelson Mandella was inaugurated as president of South Africa at 75. Helen Keller published the book Teacher honoring Anne Sullivan at 75. Pablo Picasso painted his famous Rape of the Sabines at 81. Agatha Christie at 84 oversaw the film version of her novel Murder on the Orient Express. Golda Meir served as prime minister of Israel from age 70 through 76. I. M. Pei designed the Rock and Roll hall of fame in Cleveland, Ohio at 78. Alfred Hitchcock continued directing great suspense movies into his mid 70 s. Michelangelo continued designing and creating until his death at 88. Antonio Stradivari fashioned two of his most famous violins the Habeneck and the Muntz in his early 90 s. The list goes on; Galileo, George Frederick Handel, Immanuel Kant, Noah Webster, Ray Charles, Dr. Seuss, Toni Morrison, Winston Churchill, Eleanor Roosevelt, Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Rubinstein, Harry Truman, Lawrence Olivier, Frederick Douglass, Katherine Hepburn and Mother Teresa. 13

14 The Masonic Order should encourage each member to discover the wisdom, compassion, strength and peace that already resides within each of us. The Masonic Order should be training the mind, developing latent talent and awakening interest in various fields of endeavor all geared towards self improvement. Will there ever be a time when any of us will know too much about these things? It is not too early to begin learning and it is certainly not too late. Without the desire to learn we as humans are no longer fully alive; through the acquisition of Knowledge one approaches a display of Divine Supremacy on earth. Companions the Cryptic Rite has the greatest opportunity to be the Enlightenment of Masonic Knowledge for our Brothers and Companions as they advance on their Masonic journey. The study of Intuitive Guidance is but one aspect of authentic mystical teaching. The overall nature of humanity - physical, mental and spiritual should be explored in great depth, the nature of the cosmos, mental creativity, development of psychic actualization, strengthening of the will, visualization, meditation and other categories will aid in the enrichment of members lives as these teachings are applied to daily life. These lessons provide opportunities to understand life s purpose and aid our progress to happiness. Life is a creative work for which we are the artist, architect, engineer and builder. Respectively Submitted; Roy E. Lively MPGM Deputy Grand Master s Report To the Supreme Grand Council, Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters Companions it is my privilege to present this report as Deputy Grand Master. First I would like to thank the Companions of the Jurisdiction for your continuing confidence in me by permitting my advancement to the Office of Deputy Grand Master. I have tried to conduct myself in a manner acceptable to the traditions of the Order and reflective of the actions expected from a Grand Officer. The roll of the Deputy Grand Master allows the incumbent the opportunity to continue their education in relation to the precepts of the Order and to try to balance those precepts with the changing needs of modern times. As Deputy Grand Master I had the opportunity to accompany the Most Puissant Grand Master on a number of his visits to the Constituent Councils and as a result, was able to talk with many Companions and to get some valuable feedback. It is my opinion that the wishes and needs of the Companions of the Jurisdiction should become foremost in our decision making process as we deliberate as trustees of the Jurisdiction. I also had the privilege of attending and representing the Grand Master at the Convocation of the Grand Council of New Hampshire, and, as of the date of writing of this Report, I am likewise to represent him 14

15 at the Grand Council of Maine scheduled for end April As Deputy Grand Master I also serve the Jurisdiction as Chairman of the Board of General Purposes, an enjoyable and enlightening duty as it affords the opportunity to interact with some of the most experienced and knowledgeable Companions within the Jurisdiction. I am pleased to see this year that several of the Constituent Councils are visiting Royal Arch Chapters and presenting the Circle of Perfection as an educational piece. Though early in the campaign, initial reports suggest that they are well received and have been well presented, and indeed have yielded fresh interest. A valuable and positive asset and I urge all Councils to participate. Fraternally submitted; Rt. Ill. Comp. Gary C. Patterson Deputy Grand Master 2011/2012 For the Good of the Craft Principal Conductor of the Work Report To the Supreme Grand Council, Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada Royal and Select Masters: It was an honor and my pleasure to have been elected Grand Principal Conductor of the Work at the 144 th Annual Assembly held at Truro, NS in May During the year, it was my pleasure to be present at the Grand Lodge of Newfoundland and Labrador s Annual Communication held in October 2011, at Gander, NL when our Most Puissant Grand Master Most Ill. Comp Roy E. Lively made his official visit, as well as, being able to accompany him on his official visit to St. David s Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners at Mount Pearl, NL. In February 2012, I accompanied Rt. Ill. Comp. Gerald Mayo, Grand Inspector General for Newfoundland and Labrador on his official visit to Eastern NL Council # 6. This meeting was their installation of officers, and it was my pleasure to assist in the installation ceremony. I have visited the Councils and St. David s Lodge as much as possible and has always assisted when requested. The year was most enjoyable and I look forward to future years and pledge my continuing support to the Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters. Fraternally; W. H. John Baird Grand Principal Conductor of the Work 15

16 Grand Recorder s Report To the Supreme Grand Council Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters; It is with pleasure that I submit my first report to this Grand Jurisdiction. To say the last seven months have been interesting and educational is an understatement. To succeed a wise professional while at the same time trying to make the change as inconspicuous as possible has had its challenges. However, M. Ill. Comp. Woodhams has always been there with advice and suggestions whenever I have had a need for assistance. It has been much appreciated. Data Base The task of rebuilding our membership data base in a more user friendly format has been a work in progress since March The success of that work was given the acid test with the year end membership reports of the Councils and the Lodges, with a few minor adjustments things have gone well and we now have a data base which reflects our membership. I sincerely thank all the recorders and scribes who has been so helpful and cooperative. In future a regular and prompt reporting of membership changes will make ensure our records remain current. Office Equipment The Recorder s office now has updated hardware laptop computer and printer. We also have a complete package of Office software that is invaluable in conducting the daily operations of the jurisdiction. We are most grateful to our benefactors. Web Site Work continues on the construction of an updated web site. The old site is still available for the use of the members and in particular contains the revised constitution, the proceedings of Grand Council, the forms used by the recorders/scribes in the daily functioning of the councils and lodges and other general information for the members. The jurisdiction is most thankful to the web master Companion Alfred Wilson for his promptness in keeping the site current. Fraternal Relations Over the last several months the Grand Representative file has been reviewed and at present all of the Grand Representative positions have been filled. We have received 16

17 the commissions for the new Grand Representatives for Arkansas and Rhode Island and these have been official presented. We are awaiting the commissions from other Grand Councils. In addition it has been recommended that we extend recognition to and exchange Grand Representatives with the Grand Council of South Australia. GIG Information Kit An information kit has been compiled and will be distributed to the new Intendants General as they assume their important duties. It is hoped it will be a useful resource. Membership The changes in the membership for 2011 are detailed below: Membership Changes Councils 2011 Council Admit Reinstate Affiliated Deceasd Demitted Suspended Change Saint John # Chebucto/Richardson # Victoria # Orient # Eastern NL # MacDougall # Tantramar # Garden of the Gulf # Adoniram # The York # The Austin Bentley # Central NL # Son Shem # E.B.N. Cochrane # Lion of Judah # Reine de Saba Totals ** The actual number of deceased companions was 14 - one companion belonged to two councils and appears in the records of both. Membership Changes Royal Ark Mariner Lodges

18 Lodge Admit Reinstate Affiliated Deceased Demitted Suspended Change Cobequid M.J.A. Wagner Monckton Saint David's W.G. Young Totals Detailed Membership Changes Affiliated (3) Joined (22) Companion Council Ross Hill Victoria # 4 Lawrence G. Moss Eastern NL # 6 H.C.L. Woodhams Central NL # 16 Wejlaw Joe Chiniborch Victoria # 4 Yan Mamarbachi Victoria # 4 Frank Romneili Victoria # 4 Randolphe Seiga Victoria # 4 Scott J. Kinney Eastern NL # 6 Ian A. Murray Eastern NL # 6 Lester E. Stoyles Eastern NL # 6 Lester G. Stoyles Eastern NL # 6 David P. Walters Eastern NL # 6 Alfred P. Wilson Eastern NL # 6 Harold J. Farrow Tantramar # 8 Justin J. J. A. Lewis Tantramar # 8 Darcy S. Mills Tantramar # 8 Earl G. Sheppard Tantramar # 8 Kelly W. Hancock Adoniram # 10 Jonathan Sherrard The York # 11 Timothy E. Weibe The York # 11 Lee Stone Barrett The Austin Bentley # 15 Fredrick S. Fletcher The Austin Bentley # 15 Bruce Durrant Son Shem # 17 18

19 Reinstated (4) Deceased (14) Demitted (22) Eric Holmes E. B. N. Cochrane # 18 Richard L. Stuart E. B. N. Cochrane # 18 Terrance Philpott Eastern NL # 6 Christopher Wood Eastern NL # 6 Aubrey W. Stevens Adoniram # 10 Aubrey G. Anstey Central NL # 16 James Arthur Potter Saint John # 1 Barry George Prosser Saint John # 1 Kevin J.G. Tilley Saint John # 1 Fortunat Audet Victoria # 4 David H. Durand Victoria # 4 and Reine de Saba # 20 William M. Thompson Orient # 5 Arthur B. Matheson MacDougall # 7 Fredrick W. Byrne Adoniram # 10 Douglas G. Barker The York # 11 George Murray Webb The York # 11 Dennis L. Buchanan The Austin Bentley # 15 Edmund A. "Ted" Davis The Austin Bentley # 15 Chesley Ash Central NL # 16 Lawrence Diner Son Shem # 17 Calvin Griffith Saint John # 1 Fredrick James Tilley Saint John # 1 Ralph Faulkner Chebucto/Richardson # 3 Reno Favretto Chebucto/Richardson # 3 Gilbert Gaudet Chebucto/Richardson # 3 James Murchy Chebucto/Richardson # 3 David Stewart Chebucto/Richardson # 3 Christone Hegnievtzki Victoria # 4 Rene Laine Victoria # 4 Richard Siteman Victoria # 4 Olaf Grosvold Orient # 5 Taylor MacKinnon MacDougall # 7 George A. Bowness Tantramar # 8 Aubrey W. Greenough Tantramar # 8 Desmond E. Sonley Tantramar # 8 Kevin Seaboyer Garden of the Gulf # 9 Winston Chase The York # 11 Ernest Jones The York # 11 19

20 Suspended(10) Roy M. Jenkins Central NL 3 16 # 16 Douglas Wareham Central NL 3 16 # 16 Stephen Slauenwhite Lion of Judah # 19 Marius W. Girard Reine de Saba # 20 Manuel Koumbias Saint John # 1 Donald Herbert Jenkins Saint John # 1 Barrington Grant Chebucto/Richardson # 3 Ainsley Hart Chebucto/Richardson # 3 Edwin Waldie Victoria # 4 Myles E. Chown Tantramar # 8 George A. Holton Tantramar # 8 Dale E. Ross The York # 11 George W. Slipp The York # 11 William Thornhill Central NL # 16 Again this year we have experienced a net decline of eighteen (18) companions. We mourn the loss of fourteen(14) companions who have laid down their working tools. The addition of twenty two (22) new members to our ranks is encouraging and hopefully this will continue as we increase our recruitment efforts the new Circle of Perfection presentation can be a useful tool in this regard. Companions again we are unable to control the numbers lost to the great leveler of mankind, but the number of Demits (22) and Suspensions (10) are of concern. We need to look at this issue and maybe make an extra effort to determine why companions join and then are lost to us through these sources. Are our lessons and programs ineffective? Are we loosing members that are having problems attending due to age and changing circumstances? Is there not something we can do to assist those in that situation? Companions a regular contact with the members of our councils can bring great and rewarding results. Accounts September 2011 March 31, 2012 (The accounts previous to September 2011 were balanced and closed prior to the change of the Grand Recorder Office). Grand Council Current Account: Receipts: Ritual Sales Regalia Sales Annual Assessments Order of TIM fees Registrations SEM degree

21 Replacement Certificate 5.00 Membership Cards 5.00 Total: Grand Recorder Operating Account: Receipts: Expenses: Advances from Grand Treasurer Computer supplies Postage Office Supplies Membership Cards Total Expenses; Balance Conclusion: My sincere Thank You is expressed to the recorders and scribes in the Councils and Lodges for their tremendous assistance and co-operation over the last several months. You promptness in responding to requests to confirm membership data made it possible for the Data Base project to reach a successful completion within a reasonable time frame. You are to be commended for the prompt handling of the assessment notices it makes life much more bearable. Please ensure your notices are up to date and are forwarded to the appropriate Grand Officers; the information contained therein is invaluable for planning and keeping this office informed about what is happening in the respective councils. The office has a supply of most items you may need an early request will insure you receive the required item in time and will allow for procurement of anything that may not be in stock. I look forward to working with you in the coming months and pledge you my assistance where ever it may be required. Respectively Submitted; John R. Dollimount PMPGM Grand Recorder 21

22 Grand Treasurer s Report To the Supreme Grand Council of the Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters: I am pleased to submit this, my fourth report, as your Grand Treasurer on the financial activities of our Grand Council for the year It will be noted we have again experienced a modest operating surplus and have an increase in financial assets for the year. These good results reflect a prudent approach to guarding the treasury by many Companions. Some of the entries in the expense listing are onetime items, however, it is to be expected other considerations will continue to reflect our generosity. Investment returns are very low but will hopefully improve over time. I move that this report be received and tabled pending the report of the Grand Financial Examiners. Fraternally and respectfully; Charles R. MacKinley PMPGM (Hon) Grand Treasurer Account Number Supreme Grand Council Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada Royal and Select Masters Record of Investments as of December 31, 2011 Issue Date Original Principal Interest Rate Interest Type Maturity Date Jun , % Compound 12-Jun-2012 (Yr.3 of 5) Aug , % Simple 07-Dec-2011 ** Mar , % Compound 30-Mar Mar , % Simple 31-Mar Dec , % Simple 09-Dec Jan , % Simple 27-Jan Apr , % Simple 05-Apr-2016 Total $51, All of the above investments are with TD Canada Trust 22

23 ** This GIC matured Dec. 7 th, 2011 and was deposited in the TD Bank General Account for safekeeping. It will be added to the GIC s that mature in March One investment with Manulife Bank Business Advantage Account # Value as of December 31, $10, (Including Interest) Rate 1.50% Total Principal Value of all Investments $61, Supreme Grand Council, Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada Royal and Select Masters Annual Financial Statement January 1, 2011 December 31, 2011 General Account Balance January 1, 2011 $8, Receipts: Assessment Council Dues $ Regalia Supplies Sales Interest TD Bank GIC s Degree fees TIM Registrations Other fees 0.00 Postage Recovered 4.30 Miscellaneous Total $ Expenses: Transfer to Investment $ Regalia Purchases Grand Council Hotel Expense * Office Supplies Printing Dues Cards Postage Honorariums ** Website fee Website fee Advisory Board Donation Scouts Maitland Donation Glaucoma Fund Grand Assembly Speaker Grand Assembly Guests Grand Assembly Joint Expense Grand Recorder Impress Balance

24 New Grand Council Seal Total $ General Account Balance Dec. 31, Excess of Expenses Transfer to Investment Account (April 5, 2011) Net Excess of Receipts General Account Net Balance *Grand Recorder 2011 Annual Assembly ** $ each to Grand Master and Grand Recorder Total Assets: General Account TD Bank $6, (After adjustments) Savings Account Manulife Bank $10, GIC s TD Canada Trust $51, Total $67, Increase over 2010 $ Charles R. MacKinlay PMPGM (Hon) Grand Treasurer Financial Examiner s Report To the Supreme Grand Council Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada Royal and Select Masters: We are pleased to present the Financial Examiners Report for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, As the Financial Examiner s appointed to examine the financial statements and records of the Treasurer and Recorder, we report the records and statements accurate and in good order. The summary as reported by Grand Treasurer indicates a favorable balance in the General Account of $6,317.76, Special Savings Account $10, and G.I.C. s totaling $51, We continue to have great leadership in the positions of The Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder and they are to be commended for their excellent work on our behalf. Sincerely and Fraternally; M. Ill. Companion Gerald A. Riley V. Ill. Companion Murray F. Gardner 24

25 Report of Grand Inspector General for Quebec To the Supreme Grand Council, Eastern Jurisdiction of Canada, Royal and Select Masters: It is my pleasure to extend Fraternal Greetings from the Companions of Victoria Council No. 4, Son Shem Council No. 17 and Conseil Reine de Saba No. 20 from la belle province. At the outset, I must admit that I knew that I would be in for an interesting year when the Grand Master travelled to Lennoxville, Québec in October 2011 to jointly visit Québec s three Councils and only two Councils showed up. Needless to say, I was not a happy camper. However, the twenty-odd Companions present enjoyed themselves and the fellowship of the noon-time gathering that followed. After that, planning for and attempting my first official visit in late 2011, led me to hope for a fresh start in the New Year. In recent months, I have been received officially and well by each council. At Son Shem Council and Conseil Reine de Saba, I witnessed the Installation of their Officers for the upcoming year. At Victoria Council I witnessed the conferral of the Royal Master s Degree on seven candidates. Indeed since the beginning of 2012, I have witnessed a determined effort within each College to move forward ritually. As well, I am happy to report that administratively each council continues to be in fine shape. Notwithstanding all other obstacles and concerns, membership remains the single biggest issue for Son Shem Council and Conseil Reine de Saba. Each of these Councils only has one Royal Arch Chapter, within a reasonable travelling distance, from which to draw members. To this end, the Companions have been working tirelessly within local concordant bodies to strengthen that base and these efforts are starting to yield dividends. For Victoria Council, their concerns centre on the changing of the guard. Drastic changes to their line-up of officers for the coming year already seem to have had a positive effect. As some may be aware, Masonry in Québec has been in the doldrums for a number of years, but that seems to have changed somewhat and Masonic bodies at all levels are presently experiencing a period of small to modest growth. In that light, the Councils of Québec are starting to work together for the common good and their TIMs are looking forward to developing a formal means of organizing planning and mutual support at the Provincial level as suggested by the Grand Master during his visit last October. Finally, I would to thank all of the Companions of Québec for their support over this my second and last year in office. Their encouragement over these past two years has made this phase of my life s journey indeed interesting, but a blessing nonetheless! Respectfully and fraternally submitted; Allan H. Marshall Grand Inspector General - Québec 25