Brethren,
I greet you all warmly, and as always, it is a pleasure to address you in this way. You’ve continued to express your appreciation for this digital format over the more time-consuming alternatives, and I wholeheartedly agree. It is a more efficient, accessible, and inclusive way to share important matters across our Province, and I extend my thanks once again to our skilled and ever-reliable Webmaster for enabling this.
Over the past year, I have witnessed a renewed energy throughout South Wales. Whether supporting Brethren at Grand Rank investitures or contributing locally to Lodge life, your commitment continues to reflect the very best of Freemasonry. That spirit of unity and pride fills me with great confidence for the future of our Province.
When we launched our Executive Strategy under the theme Revive, Refocus, Rebuild, we did so in the hope that we could help Lodges navigate the path from post-pandemic recovery to renewal. Thanks to your collective efforts, we are now beginning to move beyond revival. Brethren, we are rising.
Our membership numbers are showing positive trends. More importantly, we are seeing meaningful engagement from Brethren of all ages and backgrounds, proving once again that the strength of our organisation lies in its people. Whether you’re 18 or 100, your contribution is valued, your voice is welcome, and your presence matters.
Our veterans remain central to our community. The Provincial Office continues to actively track important anniversaries to ensure that no milestone goes unnoticed. I would encourage Secretaries to liaise closely with the team so that these celebrations are marked as they deserve to be.
One of the most exciting developments this year is our new Provincial headquarters in Bridgend, which is now near completion. This impressive new facility will house the Masonic Benevolent Fund as well as the administrative heart of Freemasonry in South Wales. It represents both our heritage and our future—a tangible investment in the next chapter of our journey, and I know many of you are looking forward to seeing it open its doors very soon.
Looking further ahead, preparations are already well underway for our 2027 Tercentenary, led by W.Bro. Dr Akram Baig, APGM. Across the Province, regionally based events are being held with great care and enthusiasm—not just to mark this momentous milestone, but to ensure that every Brother has the opportunity to take part. Fundraising efforts are well-coordinated and inclusive, and I thank all those involved in making the Tercentenary accessible to every Brother in every corner of the Province.
In the near future, we will also launch the next Festival period leading up to 2032, under the capable leadership of W.Bro. Robert Payne, APGM. This follows the great success of the 2021 Festival and will once again give us the opportunity to demonstrate the charitable heart of Freemasonry in South Wales.
I’m also proud to announce that we have recently signed the Armed Forces Covenant – a public re-affirmation of our enduring commitment to those who have served our country. Whether currently serving, veterans, or reservists, we honour their service and offer them our full support within the masonic community.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the dedicated work of so many. I extend my sincere thanks to the Office Team, led by our Provincial Grand Secretary, the ceremonial Team under the direction of the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, and all members of the Joint Executive for their unwavering service.
We now look ahead to one of the highlights of our Masonic calendar – our annual meeting on Saturday, 28 June at Barry MEMO, where we will once again celebrate the achievements of those appointed and promoted in the Province. Please thank your families and loved ones for the support they continue to give, and as always, I urge you to enjoy your Freemasonry to the fullest.
A bright future lies ahead – and I am honoured to walk it with you.
Thank you, Brethren.