Masonic.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 6204, 1 May 1890, Page 2

Masonic.

THE INSTALLATION OF THE GRAND MASTER. (By Telegraph.) CHRISTCHURCH. April 30, Mr Henry Thomson was installed grand master of the New Zealand Grand Lodge of Freemasons this evening by Bro. B. T. Gillon, who said that the New Zealand Grand Lodge had not severed bonds with the mother constitution in a rebellious spirit, and had no inimical feeling towards those who differed from them.. The New Zealand Grand Lodge could be trusted to make masonry more popular among the growing youth of this colony than it had been. The grand master in his address defended the grand lodge movement against the charge of inopportune and unseemly haste and disloyalty, and said that if the non-recognition of the lodge and the consequent scandal among the Craft 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 installation, and the scene was most imposing. The hall having been perfectly arranged was beautifully decorated. The ceremony was performed by Bro. E. T. Gillon assisted by Bro. Vincent Fyke, A large choir under B. Trist

Searell rendered the music. After the ceremony the degree of past deputy grand master was conferred on Bro, Qillon in recognition of his sendees, and of- past grand secretary on Bro. Robertson (Wellington). The banquet held subsequently in the ball of the Chamber of Commerce was crowded. The utmost enthusiasm prevailed.