Well, I’m David; he’s Nick, and it’s a hello from me and a hello from him.
Thanks to the Coronavirus, Freemasonry and our normal life has changed dramatically. Our best-laid plans must remain on hold, but the most important thing is we all stay safe and heed the Government and medical advice.
We are unable to see as much of each other as we have been used to; we may be spread throughout the Lincolnshire Province and further, but we can still keep in touch and support our Masonic family, particularly those who have been Masons for but a few months.
As I have said many times, we are all Mentors, and in these difficult times, perhaps supportive Almoners as well. So, face-to-face mentoring cannot happen due to social distancing and we need something different in our new temporary routine. We have already launched a cartoon competition to lighten the mood. We have now devised some Mentoring puzzles (crosswords, word search and conundrums) to help maintain our interest and encourage a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge. These are just fun and will be circulated via Lodge Mentors and Lodge Secretaries. There will be more to follow if you feel they are of value?
However, good ideas don’t care who has them, so please let us know of any other initiatives you have to keep the Brethren interested and amused.
Solomon
Don’t forget Solomon. There is a great selection of quality, highly educational and interesting activities on the Solomon web site.
The Solomon database is vast, it’s being regularly updated and has been carefully structured to support a brother through every stage of his masonic journey. Usually these papers are presented as ‘nuggets’ – short articles on a particular topic – but there are also videos and interactive resources to explore.
Fred and Charlie
The ‘Fred & Charlie’ articles are different and interesting. They’re written by Michael Lee, a Freemason from Wiltshire, and we’re certain you’ll find them worth a read. We did (Thank you, Michael).
Fred is around 60 and has been a Freemason for more than twenty years. After taking twelve years to reach the Chair, his pride in good ceremonial and smart bearing (suggesting a sometime military connection), made him a perfect fit for the Lodge Director of Ceremonies.
Charlie is in his mid-thirties. As a young businessman, recently married with a new son. He was very much the modern man, wanting to share his time and energy with his partner, and so spare time for Charlie was a precious commodity. However, recognising the merits of some occasional all-male company on a civilised boys’ night out, he was persuaded to join Freemasonry. Perhaps you’ll identify with Fred. Or Charlie. The first one is on the web site next to this post. Have a read, and let us know what you think. We’ll post another one later.
David Buckenham Provincal G Mentor (buckdgp68@gmail.com)
Nick Brown Ass’t Provincal G Mentor (nicktheonion@hotmail.com)