GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XV, Issue 4656, 1 May 1890, Page 1

GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND.

(by tehegrafh.)

CHBISTCHtTRCH, April 30. Henry Thomsou was installed Grand Maerter of the New Zealand Grand Lodge of Freemasons this evening, by E. T. Gillon, who said the New Zealand Grand Lodge had not severed the bonds with the mother constitution in a rebellions spirit, and had no inimical feeling towards those who differed from them. The New Zealand Grand lodge would, he trusted, make masonry more popular among the growing youth of this colony than it had been. The Grand Master, in his address, defended the Grand Ljdge movement against the charges of inopportuneness, ur seemly haste, and disloyalty, and said that if a non-recognition of the Lodge and consequent scandal took place, it might fairly be laid to the charge of those who stood aloof/ neither helping the movement nor permitting others to help. The chief defect of the present system was the almost total neglect, to make systematic provision for the exercise of benevolence.

Over 250 were present at the Masonic installation at the Oddfellows' Hall. Tho scene was most imposing, the hall having been perfectly arranged and beautifully decorated. The ceremony was performed by Mr E. T. Gillon, assisted by Mr V. Pyke. A large choir, ■ under R. Frist Searell, rendered music. After the ceremony the degree of Past Deputy Grand Master was conferred on Mr Gillon, in recognition of his services, and of Past Grand Secretary on Mr Robertson (Wellington). A banquet was held subsequently in the hall of the Chamber of Commerce which was crowded. The utmost enthusiasm prevailed.