Please RSVP by 13th January to District 23 DGIW.
Freemasonry, at the heart of life.
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Monday, December 10, 2018
Integrity, Loyalty, Respect: GM's Theme for 2018
"The Grand Master, MW Bro Derek Robson has determined his theme for his term of office is three words - Integrity, Loyalty and Respect.
While words are important to characterise a person, their individual use; understanding and implementation are all that observers need to be able to live the meaning of the words. Therefore, it is very important in the jurisdiction of NSW and ACT that his theme is explained.
Integrity is a noun from the Latin word integritas and has a meaning of steadfast adherence to a strict moral or code with a consistency of actions, values, honesty and truthfulness.
Loyalty is a noun from the old French word loial and has a meaning of the quality of faithfulness, fidelity, fealty and allegiance.
Respect is a noun and has a meaning of a state of deference, esteem and honour, a positive feeling or action shown towards someone.
Collectively the theme pillars what it means when a person takes the step to become a Freemason. The embodiment of the theme lies in the changes and obligations we take on ourselves when we enter Freemasonry - obligations which entail collective as well as personal responsibilities.
Obligations which call on us to apply the principal virtues of faith, hope and charity:
> Faith to follow the moral dictates of our hearts and minds - 'the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.'
> Hope that our faith will be manifested in the things we learn, and in turn, teach.
> Charity - or as it is now more commonly understood, love - to share our lives, knowledge, understanding and means with others, especially to our Brethren.
Obligations which call on us to apply the cardinal virtues of prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice to:
> to be prudent in our deeds and thoughts;
> temper our actions with wisdom;
> accept life's tribulations and burdens with equanimity;
> and above all to be just in our dealings with others, but not to be judgemental.
Obligations which ask us to practice a meaningful work ethic, to consider everybody as an equal, and to act honourably towards our fellow brethren. Obligations which require us to develop our knowledge of masonic philosophy, history and morality and above all, insist that we respect our brethren by practising the five points of fellowship.
The theme embraces the elements of masonic philosophy. The work ethic promoted in the First Degree is necessary to ensure the wellbeing of individual lodges and the Craft. That labour (or effort) is required; that accuracy is not just important but is absolutely essential and that without perseverance the affairs of a lodge which is facing adversity may well lose its resoluteness.
The lessons of the Second Degree must be learned and applied if the lodge and its brethren are to advance - that a lodge must preserve, almost as one of its landmarks if you like, the concepts of justice and fair play - and the qualities of mercy and constructive criticism are applied fairly and equitably. Without the study and honing of the mind which is referred to in the Second Degree, the understanding, let alone the development, of the philosophy that is held dear is impossible.
The theme demonstrates that the lesson of the First Degree is about developing a strong and meaningful work ethic; that the Second Degree is about the honing and polishing of the mind with knowledge and understanding and that the Third Degree is to teach us about the spirituality of Freemasonry and our lives.
The theme says that if we miss these elements we miss the whole point of Freemasonry.
The Grand Master's theme makes so much reference to what should be the daily practice of masons and masonic philosophy, and Kipling's poem, If, summarises the qualities to develop the hearts and minds of every Freemason."
By RW Bro Robert Moore as published in the December 2018 issue of the Freemasons, page 6.
While words are important to characterise a person, their individual use; understanding and implementation are all that observers need to be able to live the meaning of the words. Therefore, it is very important in the jurisdiction of NSW and ACT that his theme is explained.
Integrity is a noun from the Latin word integritas and has a meaning of steadfast adherence to a strict moral or code with a consistency of actions, values, honesty and truthfulness.
Loyalty is a noun from the old French word loial and has a meaning of the quality of faithfulness, fidelity, fealty and allegiance.
Respect is a noun and has a meaning of a state of deference, esteem and honour, a positive feeling or action shown towards someone.
Collectively the theme pillars what it means when a person takes the step to become a Freemason. The embodiment of the theme lies in the changes and obligations we take on ourselves when we enter Freemasonry - obligations which entail collective as well as personal responsibilities.
Obligations which call on us to apply the principal virtues of faith, hope and charity:
> Faith to follow the moral dictates of our hearts and minds - 'the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.'
> Hope that our faith will be manifested in the things we learn, and in turn, teach.
> Charity - or as it is now more commonly understood, love - to share our lives, knowledge, understanding and means with others, especially to our Brethren.
Obligations which call on us to apply the cardinal virtues of prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice to:
> to be prudent in our deeds and thoughts;
> temper our actions with wisdom;
> accept life's tribulations and burdens with equanimity;
> and above all to be just in our dealings with others, but not to be judgemental.
Obligations which ask us to practice a meaningful work ethic, to consider everybody as an equal, and to act honourably towards our fellow brethren. Obligations which require us to develop our knowledge of masonic philosophy, history and morality and above all, insist that we respect our brethren by practising the five points of fellowship.
The theme embraces the elements of masonic philosophy. The work ethic promoted in the First Degree is necessary to ensure the wellbeing of individual lodges and the Craft. That labour (or effort) is required; that accuracy is not just important but is absolutely essential and that without perseverance the affairs of a lodge which is facing adversity may well lose its resoluteness.
The lessons of the Second Degree must be learned and applied if the lodge and its brethren are to advance - that a lodge must preserve, almost as one of its landmarks if you like, the concepts of justice and fair play - and the qualities of mercy and constructive criticism are applied fairly and equitably. Without the study and honing of the mind which is referred to in the Second Degree, the understanding, let alone the development, of the philosophy that is held dear is impossible.
The theme demonstrates that the lesson of the First Degree is about developing a strong and meaningful work ethic; that the Second Degree is about the honing and polishing of the mind with knowledge and understanding and that the Third Degree is to teach us about the spirituality of Freemasonry and our lives.
The theme says that if we miss these elements we miss the whole point of Freemasonry.
The Grand Master's theme makes so much reference to what should be the daily practice of masons and masonic philosophy, and Kipling's poem, If, summarises the qualities to develop the hearts and minds of every Freemason."
By RW Bro Robert Moore as published in the December 2018 issue of the Freemasons, page 6.
Sunday, December 9, 2018
Lodge West Epping No 731 Charity Turnover at RDA Ryde
Members and officers of Lodge West Epping No 731 turned over to Riding for the Disabled Association in Ryde the sum of $6,000.00; in conjunction with a MasoniCare interaction grant, to defray the costs of much needed steps and hand rails for their facility in Ryde.
Photo shows above members and representatives of Riding for the Disabled Association in Ryde and Lodge West Epping at a simple turn over ceremony held last Tuesday, 4th December at their premises on 118-120 Culloden Road, Marsfield.
Close up photo of the plaque commemorating the event, making the feed shed more safe for both volunteers and users.
The Association is run by volunteers and according to their website is a non-profit organisation "which enables children and adults with disabilities to enjoy and achieve physical, social, psychological and educational progress through participation in therapeutic horse riding programs and horse related activities."
To learn more about RDA Ryde, please go to their website here and to know more on how to support their various activities.
Photo shows above members and representatives of Riding for the Disabled Association in Ryde and Lodge West Epping at a simple turn over ceremony held last Tuesday, 4th December at their premises on 118-120 Culloden Road, Marsfield.
Close up photo of the plaque commemorating the event, making the feed shed more safe for both volunteers and users.
The Association is run by volunteers and according to their website is a non-profit organisation "which enables children and adults with disabilities to enjoy and achieve physical, social, psychological and educational progress through participation in therapeutic horse riding programs and horse related activities."
To learn more about RDA Ryde, please go to their website here and to know more on how to support their various activities.
Thursday, December 6, 2018
Calendar of Activities for January 2019
07 Jan, Monday - District Charity Barbeque
08:00 AM - 04:00 PM, Bunnings Castle Hill
10 Jan, Thursday - Lodge Beecroft No 359 [Burns Night]
Tribute to Wor Bro William James Sebbens
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
11 Jan, Friday - Lodge Alpha No 970 [Burns Night]
10 Jan, Thursday - Lodge Beecroft No 359 [Burns Night]
Tribute to Wor Bro William James Sebbens
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
11 Jan, Friday - Lodge Alpha No 970 [Burns Night]
07:15 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
Above photo shows officers & members of PCDL 1014 at their recent Christmas Picnic at Castle Hill Heritage Park.
12 Jan, Saturday - Parramatta City Daylight Lodge No 1014 [3rd]
10:00 AM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
12 Jan, Saturday - Lodge Jose Rizal No 1045 [2nd]
06:00 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
13 Jan, Sunday - District Charity Barbeque
08:00 AM - 04:00 PM, Bunnings Dural
16 Jan, Wed, The Hills Lodge No 1025 [1st TB]
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
18 Jan, Friday, Lodge Blacktown Kildare No 393 [3rd]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
18 Jan, Friday, Lodge Blacktown Kildare No 393 [3rd]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
06:00 PM, Wollongong Masonic Centre
174 Gipps Rd, Gwynneville NSW 2500
22 Jan, Tuesday - Lodge Burnside No 729 [1st]
22 Jan, Tuesday - Lodge Burnside No 729 [1st]
06:00 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
23 Jan, Wednesday - Lodge Resurgo No 223
07:00 PM Dinner, Tyling 07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
23 Jan, Wednesday - Lodge Resurgo No 223
07:00 PM Dinner, Tyling 07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
24 Jan, Thursday - District 25/25A Association Meeting
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
25 Jan, Friday - Lodge Corrective Services No 1039 [2nd]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
25 Jan, Friday - Lodge Corrective Services No 1039 [2nd]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
26 Jan, Saturday - The Star of Australia No 200 [2nd]
06:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
Parramatta & The Hills Lodge of Instruction
IN RECESS
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
District Charity BBQ Schedule for 2019
07th January, Monday - Bunnings Castle Hill
13th January, Sunday - Bunnings Dural
09th & 10th February, Saturday & Sunday - Blacktown Athletic Centre
02nd March, Saturday - Bunnings Blacktown
22nd April, Easter Monday - Bunnings Castle Hill
04th May, Saturday - Bunnings Marsden Park
19th May, Sunday - Bunnings Dural
06th July, Saturday - Bunnings Castle Hill
21st July, Sunday - Bunnings Northmead
11th August, Sunday - Bunnings Northmead
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Calendar of Activities for December 2018
01 Dec, Saturday - Accredited Masonic Mentoring Course
02:30 PM - 06:30 PM, Orchard Hills Masonic Centre
[By enrollment only, see your Secretary or DGIW]
01 Dec, Saturday - Elysian Lodge No 418 [1st]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
05 Dec, Wednesday - Burnside No 729
06:00 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
Christmas Party in the South, Ladies invited $25 dining fee.
08 Dec, Saturday - District Charity Barbeque
08:00 AM - 04:00 PM, Bunnings Blacktown
08 Dec, Saturday - Lodge Jose Rizal No 1045 Fellowship
Family Christmas Party [Potluck/BYO]
11:00 AM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
08 Dec, Saturday - Parramatta City Daylight Lodge No 1014
Get together - Family Christmas Barbeque
12:00 Noon, Castle Hill Heritage Park
08 Dec, Saturday - Parramatta City Daylight Lodge No 1014
Get together - Family Christmas Barbeque
12:00 Noon, Castle Hill Heritage Park
08 - 09 Dec, Saturday & Sunday, Athletics Sports Barbeque
08:00 AM - 03:00 PM, Blacktown International Sportspark
Eastern Rd, Rooty Hill NSW 2766
10 Dec, Monday - Lodge Blacktown Kildare No 393 [2nd]
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
11 Dec, Tuesday - Lodge The Hills No 1025
Family Christmas Dinner [Smart casual]
06:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
07:00 PM, Sydney Masonic Centre
13 Dec, Thursday - Lodge Beecroft No 359
Family Christmas Social [Evening smart casual]
06:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
$20 per head, children under 12 years old free.
$20 per head, children under 12 years old free.
14 Dec, Friday - Lodge Alpha No 970
07:15 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
14 Dec, Friday - Lodge West Epping No 731
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
18 Dec, Tuesday - Lodge Resurgo No 223
07:30 PM, Castle Hill Masonic Centre
Ladies' South
21 Dec, Friday - Lodge Blacktown Kildare No 393
07:00 PM, Blacktown Masonic Centre
LODGES IN RECESS:
Lodge Parramatta City Daylight Lodge No 1014
Lodge The Star of Australia No 200
Lodge The Hills No 1025
Lodge The Hills No 1025
The Hills & Parramatta Lodge of Instruction
Monday, November 12, 2018
12 Dec 2018 Grand Communication
December Grand Communication & Dinner

The December Grand Communication will be held on Wednesday 12 December 2018 at the Sydney Masonic Centre, it is open to brethren only and will start at 7:30pm.
All Past Grand Lodge Officers, members of Grand Lodge and brethren attending as observers are requested to be seated by 7:15pm as the Grand Master will enter the Grand Lodge Room at 7:30pm precisely.
Dress
Summer Dress, Dinner Suit or Dark Lounge Suit (for those lodges permitted). Alternate dress prescribed for hot or oppressive summer conditions is not permitted. Present and Past Grand Lodge Officers should wear Summer Dress or full evening wear (Tails) with their Grand Lodge regalia.
Observers
The Grand Master extends an invitation for any interested brethren, who are not members of Grand Lodge, to attend as ‘observers’. Brethren attending as observers are not entitled to vote on matters being considered by Grand Lodge.
Communication Dinner
The Dinner is for Brethren only and will be held after the Communication. Tickets for the Dinner are $40.00 per person if purchased before Friday, 07 December 2018, and $45.00 if purchased after this date. It will be a two course meal. Beer, wine and soft drinks will also be available for purchase. Tickets will not be available on the day.
All bookings will be handled by Eventbrite. The Communication Dinner is an invitation only event and you will receive an email with your personal invitation.
If for any reason you do not receive an email with your invitation, please contact Melanie on info@masons.org.au or 02 9284 2800. Alternatively you can request an invite from this link.
Ladies Festive Function
Gael will be hosting a Celebratory Dinner for Ladies only at the Sydney Masonic Centre at 7pm on Wednesday, 12 December 2018 for the duration of the Communication.
Gael would like to invite all Ladies to join her to celebrate the end of another successful Masonic Year.
Gael would like to invite all Ladies to join her to celebrate the end of another successful Masonic Year.
Grand Master's Delegation
On entry to Grand Lodge, the Grand Master’s delegation will be limited to the Deputy Grand Master, Assistant Grand Master, Ceremonial Grand Lodge Officers and Regional Grand Counsellors.
On retiring, the delegation shall consist only of those brethren nominated by the Grand Director of Ceremonies.
Parking
Parking in the Masonic Centre is ONLY available to the GM, PGM’s, DGM, AGM and invested Ceremonial Grand Lodge Officers.
Parking is available at the car park in Goulburn Street at flat night rate of $10.00 per vehicle when entering after 5pm and leaving before 6am the next day.
Integrity, Loyalty and Respect
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