Presentation delivered at Hendre Lodge on the 23rd January, 2025
AProvGM, W.Bro. Robert. G Payne, 2032 Festival Chairman.
Brethren all,
Today, we gather not just as Masons, but as men bound by a higher calling, one of service, compassion, and the power of unity. It is my privilege to stand before you as we build towards the launch our Province’s 2032 Festival, a monumental effort to support the extraordinary work of the Masonic Charitable Foundation.
Brethren, as we embark on this journey together, let us remember what sets Freemasonry apart. We are more than a fraternity; we are a force for good. The Masonic Charitable Foundation embodies our values, transforming lives through its tireless work, supporting families in crisis, providing education for young minds, championing medical research, and offering a lifeline to those who thought hope was lost.
In the last 12 months alone, the MCF has supported our Province with £550k – £70k to charities and the remainder supporting 106 Brethren and their families.
The need has never been greater, and the opportunity before us is profound. This Festival is not just about raising funds; it’s about changing lives. Every pound we contribute, every event we organise, every moment we dedicate has the potential to lift a child out of poverty, to provide care for an elderly brother or widow, or to fund groundbreaking research that saves lives.
Let us rise to this occasion with the same fervour and commitment that our predecessors have shown throughout Masonic history. Let our Province shine as a beacon of charity and brotherhood.
But how do we achieve this?
Together as individuals, we each hold a piece of the puzzle. Together, we start to complete the picture. I urge every Lodge, every brother, and every family member to play a part. Host events, share the story of this great cause, and above all, give what you can whether that be time, effort, or financial contributions.
Brethren, I ask you to think of the legacy we will leave for future generations. Imagine standing at the close of this Festival in 2032, looking back at what we have achieved not just the financial goal, but the immeasurable impact on countless lives.
The Official launch of the Festival will be in exactly 12 months. Let’s use this time wisely Brethren to ensure we have the appointed the correct Brother as Charity Steward, so he can motivate and encourage their Lodge, to play their part in our biggest Fundraising challenge to date. Together we can make a difference.
I am delighted to announce that I have appointed as Deputy Chairman of the 2032 Festival W.Bro. Martyn Wake, who as Deputy GSupt and the former Provincial Grand Charity Steward in the Royal Arch, Martyn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Over the coming weeks, Martyn and I will be assembling the committee to oversee and manage the 2032 Festival. The committee will be new and dynamic and will look to build on the success of previous Festivals in 2010 and 2021. We have considerable talent and skills across our Province and I want to ensure that everyone who wishes to offer their time and experience, is able to do so. The committee will be initially discussing and agreeing the following ;
- A target for the Province and individual targets for Brethren and Lodges.
- Area Chairs, Liaison Officers, Charity Stewards.
- A programme of fundraising events.
- Merchandising.
- A focus on continuous giving – Regular Payment Promises are key to a Festivals success.
Our new 2032 festival relief chest is now open and ready to commence accepting payments from both Brethren and Lodges. It is no secret that many Lodges and Brethren were already saving prior to the launch of the last Festival, which ensured they achieved Gold status last time.
These festivals represent the pinnacle of our collective efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation Festivals are more than just charitable events; they are powerful demonstrations of compassion, solidarity, and the unwavering commitment to serve others.
The task ahead is not small, but neither is the strength of our fraternity. Together, we have the power to achieve extraordinary things. So let us commit ourselves wholeheartedly, knowing that through this Festival, we reaffirm the very essence of Freemasonry: charity, integrity, and brotherhood.
Let us all start to plan and prepare for the launch in 12 months time with energy, determination, and above all, unity. For together, Brethren, we can and will make a difference.