Masonic Charities Seminar Report
A unique event took place recently in the Loughshore Hotel, Carrickfergus when the Masonic Charites in the Province of Antrim came together for a Masonic Charities Seminar. Over one hundred representatives from our Lodges took advantage of this opportunity to learn more about our Masonic Charities.
This initiative was promoted by our Assistant Grand Master, Rt.Wor. Bro Leslie Nixon, who brought the Masonic Charities together, to present their history, achievements and challenges for the future.
The Funds present were:
- The Victoria Jubilee Masonic Benevolent Fund,
- The Masonic Welfare Fund
- The Belfast Masonic Widows’ Fund,
- The Belfast Masonic Charity Fund,
- The Masonic Orphans Welfare Committee,
The Masonic Girls Benefit Fund, and
The Masonic Boys Benefit Fund.
After a welcome from Rt.Wor. Bro Leslie Nixon, the seminar began with a presentation from Mr Myles McKeown from the N.I. Charity Commission. He was followed by Dr Jim McCormick from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation who spoke about the levels of poverty in Northern Ireland.
After lunch, there were excellent presentations from representatives of each charity, highlighting how they can support our Brethren. All speakers emphasised that donations from Lodges were vital to maintain and develop our charities.Future events like this will be able to expand and develop knowledge of the work being done on behalf of our Brethren and Lodges.
Many thanks also to Rt. Wor. Bro. Bashford for his photography and his comprehensive report can be found at www.irishfreemasonry.com
Mal Ross
