Dear Brethren,
Today marks one hundred days since R.W.Bro. Robert G. Payne was installed as Provincial Grand Master for South Wales.
In that relatively short time, a tremendous amount of work has already taken place across the Province. Whilst much of this work happens quietly behind the scenes, its purpose is simple: to strengthen our Lodges, support our Brethren, and ensure that Freemasonry in South Wales continues to flourish for many years to come.
From the outset of his tenure, R.W.Bro. Robert has approached his responsibilities with enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the welfare and future of the Province. There is already a growing sense of optimism across South Wales, and many Brethren have spoken warmly of the energy, encouragement, and leadership he has brought to the role.
A number of important appointments have been made during these opening months. W.Bro. Merrick Jones has been appointed as Assistant Provincial Grand Master, bringing considerable experience and valued support to the Province. In addition, W.Bro. Neil Evans has taken on the role of Membership Strategy Lead ahead of his appointment as Assistant Provincial Grand Master in June 2026, helping to continue the positive work already underway in attracting, retaining, and supporting our members.
Great emphasis has also been placed upon the quality of our ceremonial work and the experience of our Brethren within their Lodges. The formation of the new Provincial Ritual and Standards Team under the leadership of W.Bros. Lyndon Howells, Michael Coombes, and Marc Lewis reflects a clear commitment to maintaining high standards whilst encouraging confidence, enjoyment, and participation throughout the Province.
Charity remains at the very heart of Freemasonry, and the successful launch of the 2032 Festival has already created tremendous enthusiasm across South Wales. Under the leadership of W.Bro. Simon Daniel and his team, excellent progress has already been made, with Festival Jewels now being presented throughout the Province and many more planned in the months ahead.
Alongside these developments, a great deal of work has taken place to strengthen the day-to-day running of the Province. The introduction of Lodge Portal Officers will help strengthen the links between Grand Lodge, Provincial Grand Lodge, and individual Lodges throughout South Wales.
Important steps have also been taken to support the wider Masonic experience of our Brethren. The launch of the Masonic Buildings Support Funds will help improve and preserve our Masonic buildings for future generations, whilst the introduction of Provincial merchandise via the 2032 Festival online shop, and the adoption of the new Provincial Coat of Arms have all contributed to strengthening Provincial identity and pride.
Preparations are already well underway for the yearlong Tercentenary Celebrations commencing in June 2026, and there is great anticipation surrounding these important events. Likewise, the introduction of the Province’s new “One Journey” tie, incorporating both Craft and Royal Arch Masonry, reflects the unity and shared purpose that continue to guide Freemasonry in South Wales.
Throughout these first months in office, R.W.Bro. Robert has travelled extensively across the Province, supporting Lodges, attending celebrations, and meeting Brethren from all parts of South Wales. His attendance at significant anniversaries, including the centenary of St. Quentin’s Lodge and the 150th anniversary of Merlin Lodge, has been warmly appreciated by all concerned. Rulers will have visited this Province 4 times in just 5 months!
He has also represented South Wales at a number of important Provincial and Grand Lodge events, including visits to the Provinces of Somerset and Cornwall, the March Quarterly Communication, and the April Craft and Royal Arch Investitures. In addition, he hosted a successful South Wales Provincial Luncheon in London, where several Brethren received Grand Lodge honours and appointments.
R.W.Bro. Robert’s commitment to charity and welfare has also been evident through his support for initiatives including Maggie’s Cancer Charity and through his appointment as President of the Masonic Benevolent Fund of South Wales, where his experience and dedication will undoubtedly prove invaluable.
Importantly, he has also encouraged positive and respectful engagement with the Order of Women Freemasons in South Wales, whose members have been welcomed to several meetings in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
These achievements represent only part of what has already been accomplished during a remarkably busy and productive first one hundred days. The Province has greatly benefited from R.W.Bro. Robert’s thoughtful leadership, his willingness to listen, and his sincere desire to encourage and support the Brethren under his care.
As we look to the future, there is every reason to feel confident and optimistic about the direction of our Province. Under the leadership of R.W.Bro. Robert G. Payne, South Wales Freemasonry continues to move forward with renewed purpose, unity, and pride.
Yours sincerely and fraternally,
V.W.Bro. the Rev Canon Huw Mosford, PGChap
Deputy Provincial Grand Master