Over 140 Brethren assembled at Hendre Lodge No. 3250, Cardiff Masonic Hall, for a memorable evening that combined the announcement of the new Worshipful Master Elect with the official launch of the 2032 Festival.
At 5.00pm, the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. David Hackman, opened the Lodge. After extending a warm welcome to dignitaries, distinguished guests, and Brethren from near and far, the Lodge proceeded to the next item of business: the election of a Worshipful Master for the ensuing year.
The decision was unanimous in favour of W.Bro. Mike Lewis, who was duly announced as Worshipful Master Elect. W.Bro. Mike is a well-known and highly respected Freemason, bringing with him a wealth of experience and knowledge, and his appointment was warmly received by all present.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge, V.W. Bro. D. Huw E. Mosford, then proceeded to appoint and invest W. Bro. Richard Thomas as Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies. In doing so, he warmly praised the dedicated service and excellent work of his predecessor, W. Bro. Merrick Jones, thanking him for his significant contribution to the Province.
The Brethren were then treated to an insightful, informative, and inspiring presentation by the Provincial Grand Secretary, W.Bro. Ben Gait. W.Bro. Ben delighted those present with an explanation of the Province’s Armorial Bearings, bringing both clarity and enthusiasm to the subject.
W.Bro. Ben’s presentation can be read in full here.
The Provincial Grand Master Designate and Festival President, W.Bro. Robert G. Payne, then officially launched the 2032 Festival. In his address, he highlighted the remarkable support and commitment consistently shown by the Province throughout previous Festivals—something of which all members can be justly proud—and expressed his confidence that the same spirit would prevail once again.
The Provincial Grand Master Designate then invited the 2032 Festival Chairman, W.Bro. Simon K. S. Daniel, to outline the Festival in greater detail, including the overall, individual, and Lodge targets. Further information can be found here.
The meeting was further honoured by the presence of V.W.Bro. Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, and W.Bro. Paul Crockett, Head of Fundraising for the MCF. Both explained in detail how supporting the Festival would have a significant positive impact within the Province, particularly through Designated Festival Income. They emphasised that the more the Province pledges, the greater the funds returned to support both charitable and non-charitable organisations within our communities. Importantly, 25% of every pound donated to the Festival will be allocated to a dedicated community fund.
The evening was also the official launch of our new Provincial merchandise, details on purchasing these items will be released very shortly, we do emphasise that Provincial office DOES NOT hold any Provincial stock, so please do not ring or contact the office regarding merchandise.