RUTH LODGE, NO. 3

Evening Star, Issue 25676, 27 December 1945, Page 8

RUTH LODGE, NO. 3

FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY llutk Rebekah Lodge, No. 3, 1.0.0. F., celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in the Foresters’ Hall, Albany street, early this month. Upwards of 100 members and ex-members of the lodge, and a splendid representation of sister lodges attended. Bro. E. H. Dunn presided, and l extended a cordial welcome to all. A short concert programme of a high standard was contributed by friends of the order, and proved most enjoyable, and a banquet, for the preparation of which the Ruth sisters had been responsible, followed. The toast of “The Grand Lodge of New Zealand,” proposed by Bro. A. Beveridge, was responded to by Bro. R. E. Sligo, Grand Secretary, 1.0.0. F., who traced the modest beginnings of the order to the creation of a worldwide organisation. He conveyed greetings from the Grand Master, and hearty good wishes from Grand Lodge, representing the whole of the 1.0.0. F. lodges in the Dominion, to Ruth Rebekah Lodge on attaining its jubilee. He paid a tribute to the stalwarts who had passed on, to whom so much of the success of Ruth Lodge was due, and counselled co-operation and the extending of the helping hand to surmount the difficulties facing all friendly societies to-day. Bro. F. W. Joseph gave the toast of “ Ruth Lodge,” and referred to the loyal service of the early members, a few of whom were present. He recalled the names of sisters and brothers to whom Ruth Lodge owed a debt of gratitude, and commended to the earnest consideration of the United Friendly Societies in Dunedin the provision of a community centre for its members. Sister M. Barr, Bros. F. Bohm, R. S. Kirkham. and W. Smith were associated on the toast list in honouring Ruth Lodge. Sifter J. Runciman, a past officer of long standing, paid a graceful tribute to the lodge’s fine record of achievement through the years. Sister M. Naylor, N.G., returned thanks to the several speakers who had made so many, kind references to the lodge, which, she felt certain, the sisters appreciated highly. She referred to the toll of the years, and at her request a silent tribute was paid to those who had passed on.