Brethren, we in Moyarget Masonic Lodge No 280 enjoyed a relaxing and enjoyable evening last night at our Stated December meeting. Our only visitor was Wor Bro Jason Craig, our Provincial Grand Lodge Inspector, who had travelled up from Portrush to join us on the night. Our business was a little lighter than usual, but our Worshipful Master, Wor Bro Stanley Stewart, kept us all on our toes, as he addressed everyone, on this, his final full meeting in this his year as Master. One important issue discussed and agreed was our new Hall insurance cover for 2025-6. With the constant increases in the costs of builders work, we have now increased the amount of replacement cover on our Hall, and the new amount was approved by all present. Our Charity Stewart Wor Bro Martin McLean advised that some 164 breakfasts were served at the recent Cary & Dunluce breakfast, down in Bushfoot Golf Club and the current total of monies lifted to date is some £ 2,400.00, which will be split between our two selected charities who will both receive their money at a presentation in Bushfoot on Saturday morning.
Some 30 Brethren, Lodge Members were present, and as the formal part of the evening passed, our chef Mrs Charlotte Christie, got a few of our members organised to set up the tables, bring out the food and get all the tea and coffee organised. She had provided an excellent spread with small, tasty sausages, sausage rolls, buns, and cake. She then produced hot mince pies complete with cream that rounded off our meal.
While all that was taking place Martin McLean and others got the ballot prizes put on display and began selling ballot tickets, as part of our fund raising efforts to raise funds for our Lodge Widows and their Christmas gifts. Sales went well and we raised some £ 400.00 towards our Widows Funds. Indeed enough prizes had been donated that as the ballot draw came to an end, any Brother who had not received a prize received one, so no-one went home empty handed.
Brethren, I think that it is safe to say that all present enjoyed their quiet meeting in Moyarget and are now eagerly looking forward to our 2025 Installation, which is now only some 5+ weeks away. Our current Master wished all present a Happy, Healthy and Enjoyable Christmas & New Year break, and in turn our Director of Ceremonies in his turn wished our Master and his family an equally enjoyable break.
Robert Bashford