Report of the Provincial Grand Almoner

During my first year as Provincial Grand Almoner I have tried to carry on the working practices established over the years by my predecessor, John Wright.

I have also worked closely with the Chairman of the Care Committee, Robert Harvey.   The Care Committee members play a pivotal role by having direct communication with Lodge Almoners who are usually the instigators of the requests for help.

Financial assistance can be provided for needy brethren and their families in two main ways.   Firstly, an application can be made to the ‘Brotherly Love Fund’ which is the active arm of the Provincial Mark Benevolent Fund.   This fund has been built up over the years with generous donations from our Lodges and has the advantage of being able to give immediate assistance to an applicant while other avenues for longer term assistance, if needed, can be pursued.

Secondly, a formal application can be made to the Mark Benevolent Fund.   Decisions are made monthly on applications received from all over the country.

During the last year grants of nearly £10,000 have been made from these two funds to successful applicants.   These payments were usually for relief in helping to contribute to general living expenses.

 Finally, I would also like to acknowledge all the help I have received during the year from members of the Administration and Care Committees.

Dr. David Woodings  - Provincial Grand Almoner - May 2007

The Desmond Bowditch Charity Purse

The PGM announced in his address at the Provincial Meeting that he would present a Charity Purse each year to the Lodge in the Province which, in the opinion of the Brotherly Love Committee, had demonstrated the greatest support for the Brotherly Love Fund during the year.

(This did not necessarily mean the Lodge that had made the greatest donation).

The Purse is named the "Desmond Bowditch Charity Purse" to perpetuate the name of one who tirelessly devoted himself to the cause of charity in this Province.

This page last updated Sunday, 06 January 2008

Copyright © 2007, Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of London