To anyone Interested - sky tv are soon to be airing a programme on the masons.

As a mason myself I would hope this will go some way to show the true value of the masons and dispel a lot of the myths.

Anyone who has managed to see the inside of any Masonic lodge will know that masons pride themselves on excellence none more so than in the decoration of the lodge rooms which are exquisite.

Masonry continues to be a massive giver to charity and I am proud to be part of it.

Our lodge and members would always welcome speaking to anyone with interest and they can drop me a note if they are.

Steve

Hi tait



What myths need dispelling.

I get confused about the 'charity' thing. Maybe that could be dispelled.

The Freemasons' Grand Charity, has or is become part of the Masonic Charitable Foundation (another Foundation, plenty of those about now) .
The Masonic Charitable Foundation seems to provide a lot of support for Freemasons and their families too.

Since 1980 £100 million to Freemasons and their dependants.

https://www.grandcharity.org/

The Freemasons' Grand Charity provides assistance for Freemasons and their dependants who are experiencing financial hardship or need.

Grants are given towards:


Essential daily living costs and unexpected needs (e.g. hardship faced following an accident, redundancy, or other personal crisis)

During 2013, £3.7 million was approved to assist Freemasons and their families.

Eligibility Criteria ?

https://www.grandcharity.org/pages/masonic_grants.html

"Lift your left leg put your right arm under said knee show right nipple now you've got the contract" the mafia do the same thing with horse heads on beds. it's all down to you rub my belly I'll rub yours back handers.

I saw someone doing that in the gutter outside the clubs in Conway street. I didn't realise the significance at the time, she must have been a member of Order of the Eastern Star, I can't imagine what sort of contract she was offering.

Granny, trust me the charity element and giving to masons and families is just part of it. It's only the same as me supporting my family and friends.

What I am taking about is the the real charity which is the money we donate to real charities which is not shouted from the rooftops but runs into millions.

Our local lodge has often supported local charities and the last few years has raised money for maggies / cancer care for example.

Those looking in often do not see the other stuff that happens but those who are part of it know the value of being a mason and how they positively impact society.

Really - what is that all about! I couldn't even comment I'm afraid.

Watch the programme - one being that we are not a secretive society when we are simply a society with secrets - all built on tradition.

A lot of what I have read is just not accurate as I am sure many others will tell you!!

Thank you Tait.

As a mason myself who has been involved for over 11 years I have nothing but positive comments about masonry . The main reason I joined was charitable giving and it was a visit to Arrowe park hospital when my six month old son was really ill and I nearly lost him I realised the importance . He was given alittle bear as all children are given which I later found out was donated by cheshire masons . It's called TLC and details locally are here http://www.cheshiremasons.co.uk/teddies-for-loving-care-
appeal-tlc/.
My little boy pulled through and I won't forget that small but kind gesture .
If you want any proof to destroy the myth that Masons look after themselves please read this
http://www.cheshiremasons.co.uk/charitable-work/charity-welfare-newsletter-april-2016/.

No problem Granny! 👍

You need new terminology for referring to the practice.

"Masonry on the Wirral" sounds like someone has fly-tipped a waggon load of hardcore somewhere.

Thanks Screech and for posting the links....

Your right - the TLC work has been mentioned to me lots of times and many have often commented on the positive impact the small gesture of a teddy bear does in a time of need and distress!

Masons don't often want to shout stuff from the rooftops and generally wish to go about their fundraising knowing they are doing good. I think it's fair to say it does make a big difference but a pleasure to do such things.

You don't need to join the Masons to give to charity. You can ensure your family's financial security by taking out decent life insurance. You join the Masons to further benefit yourself. If there is a business contract in the offing a fellow Mason will get it. If you attend a job interview a fellow mason will offer you the position. And, who knows how many crimes have been covered up in order to protect fellow Masons?

Please, Masons, stop hiding behind the 'charity card' and tell the truth.