FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19918, 11 April 1928, Page 15

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

EFFECT OF STATE INSURANCE AFFAIRS OF LOCAL LODGES. Wh-Mi State insurance was first introduced in England, the opinion was freely expressed that the voluntary system of the Friendly Societies was doomed. Such however has not proved to be the case. Practically without exception, the various societies are gaining in strength, and they still occupy the foremost position in the social life of the people. Bro. W. A. Noble, the editor of the Sons of Temperance Magazine, in a recent article said: "With tho advent of State insurance many people had an idea that tho Friendly Society spirit was dead. True, much of the relationship with the health insurance members is controlled by hide bound rules and regulations issued by Government departments, but we can still, we are glad to know, in our lodge rooms practise the old spirit of the ritual rather than that of the rule-book. It is regrettable that in many quarters to-day a largely materialistic spirit holds sway. There seems to be a desire to get something for nothing, or at least a quid pro quo. The true Friendly Society spirit is that of the strong helping tho weak and needy. Members may become associated with a society primarily for tho satisfaction of feeling that provision is being made should illness overtake them, and so prevent perhaps an appeal to charity, or possibly public funds. There is, however, the more laudable satisfaction of knowing that if we remain strong and healthy the other fellow—who, perhaps, may not he so fortunate —is by that strength which comes from unity, provided for."

One of the most important meetings held last week was the half-yearly installation of the Star of Eden Lodge, No. 54, 1.0.0. F., when the N.G., Bro. Drummond, presided over a crowded gathering. Representatives were present from Alberta, Aroatea, Star of Auckland, Wynyard, Epsom, and Star of Waiuku Lodges. The distinguished visitors included Past Grand Masters Bros. J. Burchell, R. C. Gray and M. J. Hooper, of the Grand Lodge, N.Z., and P.D.G.M.'s Bros. Latimer, Harding, Armiger, Adams and Guy, also Bro. Persson, T.G., district secretary of North Wellington. An apology was received from Bro. D. Cooper, P.G.M., who was laid up with an injury to his leg. The function was organised by Bro. Guy, 1.P.D.D.G.M., who acted as marshali, and to whose efforts tho success of tho evening was due. Bro. Newhold, D.D.G.M., and a team of officers from Epsom Lodge, No. 88, attended for tho purpose of conducting the installation ceremony, the following occupying the chief chairs for the current term:—J.P.G., Bro. Drummorid ; N.G., Bro. Clark; V.G., Bro. Smerdon; elective secretary, Bro. Parr; financial secretary, Bro. P. Evans; treasurer, Bro. Ross. After the installation was completed a number of interesting presentations were made. Bro. J. Burchell, P.G.M., a member of Star of Auckland for over 48 years, and the oldest living T.G.M. in New Zealand, presented veterans' jewels to the following members of the Star of Eden Lodge:—Bro. H. Tattersall, P.G. (34 years' service); Bro. R. Gray, P.G.M. (33 years); Bro. P. Evans, P.G. (31 years); Bro. W. Ross P.G. (25 years). Bro. Evans has served as financial secretary for 29 years, and Bro. Ross as treasurer for 23 years. Bro. Simpson, P.G., was the recipient of a past grand's collar in appreciation of his services to tho lodge, and Bro. Hoffman received a miniature of the "Capstick Cup," which ho won at the recent sports gathering. An interesting; gift was made to the lodge by Bro. Burchell of a framed programme used when the Star of Eden was instituted in 1893. Bro. Simpson, on behalf of the lodge, presented Bro. Burchell with a case of pipes as a mark of the love and esteem of the members. ; The Star of Newmarket Lodge, U.A.0.D.. met last Wednesday, the Arch Druid, Pro. Siffleet presiding. Among the vistors were the District Presidents of No. 6 and 23 districts, Bros. Govan and Blakemore, also Bro. Allen, a Royal Past Arch from South Australia. Two new members were initiated and received the honours of the Order. The competition with Royal Oak for the Ritual Shield will take place on May 2 at Newmarket, a"nd May 3at Royal Oak. A challenge was issued to the Light of Manukau Lodge for the Singing Shield, and an official visit to tho lodge arranged. Bro. Allen, R.P.A., South Australia, gave an instructive address on the work of the Order in South Australia. He specially stressed the importance of the Royal Arch Chapter and the juvenile work.

The Lily of Eden Lodge No. 13, 1.0.0. F. held a successful "paper hat" social in the Renall Street Hall. Over 150 members and friends were present, tho hall being tastefully decorated for the occasion. A most enjoyable time was spent in dancing, interspersed with social items. The headgear worn created much amusement and a prize was awarded for the best liat. The proceeds were donated to the 1.0.0. F. Soldiers' Memorial Orphan Homes' Fund, which will benefit to a considerable extent.

The last meeting of the Loyal Good Intent Lodge, M.U., 1.0.0. F., was officers' night, and a large number of members and visitors were present. Representatives were \velcomed from Dominion Road, Remuera, Parnell, Ponsonby. Mount Albert and Hikurangi Lodges. Four new members were initiated and several others proposed for membership. The investigation committee reported on the efforts that, were being made to assist members who had been affected by hard times. The chief business of this committee was to find ways and means of keeping these brethren financial with the lodge. The cricket team of this lodge won the lodge, grade championship and tho Keys-Codlin Cup. The lodge has also won the District. Shield for the largest percentage of increase in membership for lodges over 200.

The. Auckland Foresters had a great week-end last week, when cricket teams from Helcnsville and Kaukapakapa met the local brethren. Although the city team may have fancied their chances beforehand. their hopes soon vanished, and after an interesting tournament'the players from Helensville proved tho victors. In the evening the teams were entertained at a smoke concert and an enjoyable tirno was spent. On the Sunday the visitors were taken for a trip round the harbour, and before leaving for home oxpressed their gratitude to tho local Foresters for the splendid time they had