Brethren, today would have been our annual sojourn to Grand Lodge to support those friends and brethren honoured by the Most Worshipful Grand Master with appointments and promotions. I am sure you will all join me in congratulating:
V W Bro Sir Paul Williams on his appointment to the prestigious rank and office of Junior Grand Warden;
W Bro Ryan Williams on his appointment as Junior Grand Deacon;
W Bro Ryland James on his promotion to Past Senior Grand Deacon;
W Bro Kelvin Jones on his promotion to Past Senior Grand Deacon; and
W Bro Peter Jones on his promotion to Past Junior Grand Deacon.
As well as the following first appointments:
W Bro Simon Francis as Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies;
W Bro Ben Gait as Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies;
W Bro Gordon Shumack as Past Grand Standard Bearer; and
W Bro Granville Thomas as Past Grand Standard Bearer.
We all trust and pray that it will not be too long before we all have the opportunity of seeing these brethren proudly wearing their new regalia.
Brethren, these are difficult times for us all and, for some, they bring tragedy and sadness. Freemasonry can and must continue to make its contribution to our wellbeing and to the lives and livelihoods of our brethren, their families and our wider communities. I have been hugely impressed by the level of help and support I have seen being provided by our members right across South Wales. To all of you, I say well done and please do keep up the excellent work you are doing. It really is making a difference.
Today is also traditionally the day when I announce my Wardens for next year. Please join me in congratulating:
W Bro John Child as Provincial Senior Grand Warden; and
W Bro Julian Rees as Provincial Junior Grand Warden
Both appointments will take effect from 27 June and, while we will not be able to enjoy our planned first ever joint celebration with our Royal Arch Companions, I hope to be able to arrange some sort of meeting and celebration later in the year.
W Bro John’s appointment as Provincial Senior Grand Warden leaves big shoes to fill as our Treasurer. I am delighted that W Bro Brian Scott has agreed to take on that role in addition to his similar one in the Royal Arch. We thank John for his many years of service and keeping our finances in good order; his new role is fitting tribute to all those efforts and we wish him and W Bro Julian well in their new senior positions.
Brethren, I can do no better than to repeat those wise and inspiring words of Her Majesty the Queen; we will meet again. May the Great Architect of the Universe bless you all.