On Friday 8th May, the Election Meeting of Lodge of Benevolence No. 7305, held at Bridgend, marked an important early milestone for the South Wales 2032 Festival Appeal, as the first Festival Jewels were formally awarded during the meeting.
The Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Robert G. Payne, accompanied by the Festival Chairman, W.Bro. Simon K. S. Daniel, were in attendance to present Festival Jewels in recognition to those brethren who have pledged the level of support required to qualify for a Festival Jewel.
Speaking during the meeting, the R.W Provincial Grand Master, in his capacity as Festival President, said:
“The presentation of the first Festival Jewels is an encouraging sign of the commitment already being shown across the Province. Our 2032 Festival is about collective effort and shared purpose, and it is heartening to see brethren engaging so positively at this early stage.”
The South Wales 2032 Festival is being undertaken in support of The Freemasons’ Charity, whose work provides vital assistance to Freemasons, their families, and communities both within the Province and further afield. The Festival will continue through to 2032, culminating in a Provincial celebration where the total amount raised will be announced.
Festival Chairman, W.Bro. Simon Daniel, also addressed the meeting, saying:
“Being able to award the first Festival Jewels at Lodge of Benevolence is a significant moment for our Festival. It shows that members understand the importance of regular and sustainable support, and that, together, we can make a meaningful difference over the life of the Appeal.”
It was further noted during the presentation that more than 380 members have already qualified for a 2032 Festival Jewel, indicating strong support at this early stage from across the Province.
Further information regarding the South Wales 2032 Festival, including details on how members can participate, is available here – https://donate.mcf.org.uk/festival-or-appeal/
This particular meeting of Lodge of Benevolence is reserved exclusively for Grand Lodge Officers and remains one of the highlights of the Masonic year, as the Lodge gathers to elect a new Worshipful Master.
It is therefore with great honour and delight that the brethren announced the election of the RW Provincial Grand Master as Worshipful Master Elect. The Lodge now looks forward with great anticipation to his Installation in October, which promises to be a memorable occasion for all concerned.