Brethren and Companions,
It is just seven weeks since we launched our 2032 Festival, and already we have seen an encouraging level of activity. Sign ups to continual giving have been steady – though of course, there is always room for improvement. We have also received several generous donations from Lodges and Chapters, for which I am sincerely grateful.
I would like to take this opportunity to address a few recurring points. My team is currently sending the first contribution statements to all Lodge Charity Stewards. A question that continues to arise is: “I contribute to my Lodge Charity Chest – can that money be transferred in my name to the 2032 Festival?” The answer is yes, Brethren, but only your Lodge Charity Steward can make this transfer. They alone have access to your Lodge’s Charity Chest. Please speak with them directly. The process is simple, completed online, and takes only a couple of minutes. Clear instructions are available on the MCF Charity Chest page. Only if they encounter difficulties after attempting it themselves should they contact our Festival Treasurer, W.Bro. Mike Yeo, who can offer guidance – though the Steward must still complete the action personally.
Evidence of how we as a Province benefit by grants from the MCF is very visible. Only this week, a charity within our Province received a grant of £49,750. The Bloom Space Foundation, clear evidence of the vital work the MCF continues to do. £15,000 has just been given to Forge Fach Community Resource Centre in Clydach. In the last 2 years 14 grants totalling £330,000 have been made to local charities within our Province and 281 brethren and their families have received grants totalling over £1 million. Your support is needed now more than ever.
The new Designated Festival Income through which 25% of all Festival donations will be returned monthly to our Province to support local good causes. Information on the application process will be published shortly to your Lodge Charity Steward.
Our Festival Jewels are currently in production and expected to arrive next month. Already, over 200 Brethren have qualified. It is the wish of our Provincial Grand Master to hold several special meetings so that these initial Jewels may be presented in person, allowing Brethren to display their visible support for our Festival.
Finally, our new Provincial merchandise is selling well via The Festival Shop online. Show your support to our Province by wearing the new Tie and help the 2032 Festival at the same time. https://www.southwalesmason.com/shop/
Thank you Brethren, for your continued generosity and for all you do to support those who need it most.
W.Bro. Simon K.S. Daniel, PAGDC
MCF 2032 Festival Chairman