JANUARY MEETING
We were all very please to see one of our longest serving brethren Bro. Hector Morrison back in his office this evening. The RWM installed Bros Hector Morrison and Roddy McPherson in their respective offices for the ensuing 12 months.

INSTALLATION MEETING
Visitors from Fingal, Ythan and MacDonald all braved the weather to attend the annual Installation ceremony. (Where the Master is chosen for the forthcoming 12 months.

The Ceremony went smoothly and the RWM would like to especially thank Bro Ewan Smith for his outstanding work on the tools and standing in as Senior Warden. Also worthy of special mention was Bro Willie Gillespie who acted as Installing Master and performed all his part smoothly and with dignity. He was subseqently installed by the new RWM.

The meeting ended in Peace and Harmony with the prizes for the Christmas Raffle being presented to the winners.

 

AUTUMN MEETING
After Summer recess Lodge Kyle met and discussed all the outstanding issues from last session and new matters arising during the summer months. The roof, chimney and forthcoming Centenary (2013) were discussed as well as a perceived "openness" of Lodge Kyle and its members. The Lodge would like to be known by the public as a group whose intentions are benevolent, activities interesting and rewarding and generally dispersing any general negativity surrounding secrecy and self interest. Projects like the Province's annual funding of a teacher at Mount View School in Malawi should be given more detailed exposure so that the public is aware of what Freemasons do and why we meet. (link to African visit)

During recess the RWM and PM Donnie Gordon traveled through to Lodge Fingall for the Quarterly Communication on 24th August. Bro. Roger Cundiff was also in attendance in his official (Provincial) capacity. It was the first QC with the new Provincial Grand Master Bro WIlliam Ross whose expertise suggested he had been performing the duties of RWPGM for many years rather than a few short weeks.

 

ANNUAL PROVINCIAL VISIT
Last night there were three rather special presentations during the Annual Visitation from "Provincial". First RWPGM Ramsay McGhee and the RWM presented PM Hector Morrison with his 50 years Certificate (yes FIFTY years). During this time Hector has served the Craft impeccably and is a genuine inspiration to us all.

As this was the RWPGM last visit in office, RWM Ron Miller took the opportunity to present Ramsay with a set of gold cufflinks (engraved with the Square and Compasses) from the Brethren of Lodge Kyle.

Lastly RWPGM presented Lodge Kyle with his offical photograph to hang in the Lodge.

The RWM of Lodge Kyle would also like it known that during the meeting two of the regularly attending brethren as members of the local Fire & Rescue Service were out defending the population from unusually large and numerous fires. It is therefore an opportune moment to state publicly that we appreciate that they regularly forgo their personal liberties to ensure that we the public are safe in our homes day and night!

VISITORS FROM NEAR AND FAR
We had planned to discuss our Centenary of the Lodge founding on May 1st 1913 this evening and indeed with much debate we did. However we were unexpectedly but ably assisted in our efforts by two visitors; Bro Wayne Price who is the Past District Depute GrandMaster of Virginia in USA and Bro James Jack who is Provincial Grand Master of Lanarkshire Middle Ward.

RWPGM James Jack ( Lanarkshire Middle Ward) & RWM

The experience of our visitors and their comment much stimulated discussion into new areas of fund raising, management of the occasion and who to invite. It is obvious to all within Freemasonry that the Centenary of the Lodge is an important historical landmark, however RWPGM James Jack pointed out that the local authority may also be predisposed to assist both financially and in the marketing of such an event as 100 years duration of any group would be classed as an institution.

After the meeting the visitors outlined their visit round Scotland and some of the activities in USA including work on Freemasonry during The American Revolution and Declaration of Independence which was absolutely fascinating, especially as our visitors must have had direct access to the source material in America.

RWDDGM Wayne Price of Virginia in USA and the RWM

SIMPLE PLEASURES
A cool but calm Spring evening saw Bros Hector Morrison, Roddy McPherson and Ronnie Miller motor up to Aultbea on a visit to Lodge Loch Ewe. Although by the time we reached Loch Maree the light had begun to fade, the scenery commanded (more than once) we slow the car, gaze down the glen and take in the Architect's splendour that is our homeland.
We were warmly greeted by the RW Master and Brethren of Loch Loch Ewe 1551 and it was heartening just to see the old Lodge filled with Freemasons. Bro Maurice Downie from Provincial was in attendance and asked that each Lodge in the Province donate a "bottle" for the forthcoming Raffle as the minor prizes. The major prize to be something more distinguished. After a splendid harmony that lasted some time we motored safely back home. A good night!

3rd DEGREE : March 7th 2011
Brother Brian Smith is already a Master Mason in the English Constitution and in previous months at Lodge Kyle has been put through the 1st and 2nd degrees as he was keen to see the rite as performed in the Scottish Constitution. So this evening he was raised to the sublime degree. RWM Ronnie Miller noted that all the brethren taking part in the work, executed their parts with dignity and fluidity as did the candidate.

The Brethren had decided that they would try out an accompaniment of Abide With Me on an Ipod, however afterwards it was decided in future we would simply be led by a brother of good voice and dispensed with the recorded backing track.

It was also our pleasure to welcome into the Lodge this evening RWM Brian Smith and IPM Hamie McLeod from 318 Lodge Fingal. 318's RWM commented positively on the 3rd Degree and will return to Portree with our warmest fraternal greetings. It was interesting to note that both the candidate in Lodge Kyle and RWM from Portree were both named Brian Smith.

Finally but by no means least, IPM Henry Cameron (Lodge FIngal 318) sent through to Lodge Kyle, a near 98 year old photograph (above) showing the Brethren in Church Road, Kyle in the year 1913*. The occasion was a visitation of Provincial Grand Lodge. The back of the photo reads -Visit of Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross-shire to Kyle of Lochalsh Lodge. PG Master Alexander Naughty, Dingwall in centre, (seated) with Depute PGM Colonel Cuthbert DSO, Ardross, on his left (in kilt) and RWM Forsyth of Kyle of Lochalsh on his right. The others in the front row are well known Ross-shire Masons. 11:50am 12/91

*confirmation pending

VISITATION TO LODGE LIVINGSTONE STONFIELD 599 :
On a flying visit to Glasgow it was with a great deal of pleasure the Master of Lodge Kyle accepted the offer to visit 599 and watch their guests Lodge St Bryde 579 from Uddingston perform a First Degree. The work was very atmospheric as was the Harmony thereafter. The photo below is RWM Tom Harold and RWM Ronnie Miller. FEB-17-11

A FULL AGENDA
The February meeting was well attended. Past Master Bruce Taylor was presented with his Past Master's Jewel by the Master; a well deserved gift from all the Brethren of Lodge Kyle. This was followed by a run through of 3rd Degree in preparation for next month's meeting.

VISITATION TO GLASGOW LODGE
Despite snowdrifts on the hill at Bunloyne to Invergarry, our Right Worshipful Master Ronnie MIller visited Lodge Blantyre Kilwinning 557 in High Blantyre where visiting Lodge Burns Immortal 1730 had been invited to work a 1st degree. The floorwork and ritual were perfect and the slight differences in form made the degree all the more interesting. The evening was very well attended and our Master was made to feel very welcome indeed by the brethren of both Lodges. The harmony lasted well into the night...

FIRST MEETING OF THE NEW YEAR 2011

A good turnout considering the road conditions. (The snow stopped traffic and the bus over the hill to Glasgow near Invergarry!).

The three vacant offices were filled by Brothers: Seamus Maguire - Senior Deacon, Chris Macdonald - Junior Deacon and Roddy MacPherson as Senior Warden. Bro. Paul Newton acted as Installing Master with Bro Willie Gillespie investing the candidates with their Jewel and other badges of office. A very professional installation by both brothers.

It was also decided that henceforth Lodge Kyle will present all Masters of the Lodge at the end of their period as Master with a Past Master's Jewel. A fitting tribute to their dedication to the craft and as tangible appreciation of their tenure by the Brethren

After the meeting, instead of a Harmony, led by Bro Donald MacKenzie (Director of Ceremonies), we formalised some Masonic ritual and floorwork. I believe we all learned something that perhaps we have been doing (slightly) wrong for some time. When to salute and when not being a typical example of the work. Our thanks to Donald for pointing these simple but important things out.

INSTALLATION OF RIGHT WORSHIPFUL MASTER 2010

A frosty evening did not prevent a most splendid turnout at Lodge Kyle for the Installation of its new master; with lodges as far away as Blantyre in Central Scotland in attendance.

Brother and now Past Master Bruce Taylor after his two years of superb service to Lodge Kyle and Freemasonry in general left the Chair for the incoming Right Worshipful Master Ronnie Miller who will perform the duties of RWM for the next 2 years

Bro. Miller thanked Bro. Taylor for all his hard work over the previous 24 months of his tenure.

Some of the PMs for the Installation at Lodge Kyle 1117

"Provincial" sent a delegation headed by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master Ramsay McGhee who commented on the professionalism of the Installation Team.

After the ceremony a harmony was held and enjoyed immensely by all during which many plans were outlined for the coming year. As you can see from the pre-harmony picture above, everyone without exception was in good cheer despite the cold weather.

Lodge Kyle would like to wish EVERYONE a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

FIRST AUTUMN MEETING - 6th September 2010
The year has swung round once more to Autumn and with it the longer nights. This Monday evening saw the lodge filled with visitors and the local brothers. A large delegation from Lodge Eval in Fort Augustus and Invergarry made the long but scenic journey over the hill to Kyle to attend and remarked at their warm welcome. They are now regular visitors to the lodge having already been here earlier in the year. Their efforts in visiting neighbouring lodges in the true spirit of fraternity are much appreciated.

The lodge also welcomed Br Gavin MacKenzie or should we say, welcomed back, as Gavin is returning to his home in Kyle after 10 years in China. His father and his father before him were Masters of the Lodge and their certificates hang in the Lodge. (see behind and above Gavin in the picture below). No doubt he will continue the family tradition in due course.

DURING SUMMER RECESS
When travelling in Canada I happened on this building in Toronto; The Old Masonic Temple. The building has been the home of MTV Canada since 2005. Internally the building has been renovated and re-designed to facillitate state of the art studios and produces original Canadian programming. The building externally however retains its original Masonic features. It's on the corner of Yonge and Davenport.

BEFORE SUMMER RECESS - STANDING ROOM ONLY

Some 50 plus brothers including a large delegation from Provincial and the RWPGM of Inverness-shire turned out for the last meeting before the summer recess which included a first degree.

Represented at the meeting were Lodges Fingal, St Kilda, Carron, St Martin, Lochiel, Sykes, Fort WIlliam, MacDonald of Sleat, Drumossie, Bernard, Waterloo, Eval, Mallaig, Loch Ewe, The Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross and Cromarty and The Provincial Grand Lodge of Inverness-shire, some of whom are pictured above.

Bro. Brian Smith, was affiliated to Lodge Kyle. RWPGM Ramsay McGhee welcomed Brian (Centre above) who is in the English Constitution (Peace & Unity Lodge 6312 ) into the Scottish Constitution and wished Bro. Brian a long and happy career in Freemasonry... as do we all.

A splendid harmony was enjoyed by all and it was 10:30 before we started off for home. A most satisfying end to the season.

 

WHAT FREEMASONRY IS ALL ABOUT...

At our March meeting we had three brothers come to visit. The first was Bro. Brian Smith, who hopes to become affiliated to Lodge Kyle. He brought with him a unique gift from Peace and Unity Lodge number 6312 of two bottles of Masonic red wine and an engraved glass from which to drink it. The glass is engraved with his Lodge Crest and the inscription Peace and Unity Lodge 6312 - W. Bro M S Errington Master 2010. Our Master Bruce Taylor thanked Bro Brian for his visit and asked him to convey the thanks to his master in England. The wine will be sampled on a suitable occasion.

RWM Bruce Taylor accepting Bro. Brian Smith's unique gifts

More locally, from Lodge Eval at Invergarry, came Bros John MacDonald and Colin Sidley. The boys said that they had a super evening in Kyle and that our two lodges were not too far apart suggesting that there could be more frequent visits in the future.

The boys from Lodge Eval No. 1464 in Invergarry

The visitations of the three brethren highlights what Freemasonry is all about; visiting Lodges anywhere in the world, making new friends and rekindling old fiendships.

On a more serious note, we discussed the roof and the ingress of water during the winter months. The builder's quotation for repairs was somewhat more than the lodge can afford at this time and so it was suggested that where possible we carry out the work ourselves. Fortunately as there are some amazing new sheet products available on the market, the task of replacing the roof is considerably more simple that it used to be, bringing the job into a more DIY area. We will also investigate the possiblitly of financial assitance from the Council and other sources.

Lastly RW Master Bruce Taylor was presented by Past Master Calum his Master's certificate. Bruce has been in the chair for over a year now and enjoyed every minute of it.

 

 

PICTURES FROM LODGE FINGAL 318
Where a superb time was had by all ...

On a frosty but clear evening the Lodge Kyle team travelled over the hill to Dingwall and Lodge Fingal 318 for the purpose of conferring a second degree on Lodge Fingal's Candidate. On arrival we were warmly met by the local Brethren. The Master of Lodge Fingal handed over to the Master of Lodge Kyle and the second degree duly conferred. Both Masters noted afterwards that the Candidate performed magnificently as did the team from Lodge Kyle. At the Harmony in the Hall, we were all treated to some home baking and a wonderful selection of other savoury treats. The Master of Lodge Fingal formally thanked the Master and Team from Lodge Kyle for coming over, however I suspect after the warm welcome we received and hospitality shown by Lodge Fingal, that the pleasure was all ours.

Click photo for larger image in new window

Candidate with both RWMs

Monday 14th December 2009
33 YEARS IN THE JOB
At the last meeting RWPGM Br Ramsay McGhee noted that Br Donnie Gordon had been in the office of Secretary for a continuous period of 33 years, making him the longest serving secretary in the Province. In 1976 when Donnie began his tenure, Elvis was still playing to packed houses, Harold Wilson was Prime Minister, Concorde made its first commercial flight and a wee company called Microsoft is started. Our congratulations to Donnie and we wish him every continued success as the Secretary of Lodge Kyle.

Monday 14th December 2009
INSTALLATION CEREMONY

Click photo for larger image in new window

An absolutely super turn out for the re-installation of RWM Bruce Taylor and his Office Bearers. We thank all the visitors from within and outside the province especially those who participated in the ceremony and of course RWPGM Brother Ramsay McGhee who spoke about the Masonic work going on in other parts of the country. After the meeting we all enjoyed a harmony in the Lodge room.

Monday 5th October 2009

PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES TO THE LODGE

Below is Br Roger Cundiff formally presenting two Membership Certificates to RWM Bruce Taylor. The Mark and MM Certificates originally belonged to Br William MacKenzie of Lodge Kyle. His Grandson Kevin now living in China thought it would be fitting and proper to have the documents framed and hung in Br MacKenzie's Mother Lodge. Gavin's father Donald was also a member of Lodge Kyle. The Brethren of Lodge Kyle thank Br MacKenzie Jnr. for his generosity and wish him and his family all the best.

Thursday 28th May 2009

PRESENTATION OF CHEQUE TO KYLEAKIN CONNECTIONS

A grey spring morning saw a ray of sunshine when Bro Donnie Gordon of Lodge Kyle, representing The Worthy Deacon Bro Morris Downie o' the Heilan' Shed, presented a cheque for £182 to the members of the Skye and Lochalsh Association for Disability (Kyleakin Connections).

We were given a tour of the building which includes the cafe, kitchen, library and meeting room. One of the tutors was telling us that the boys (and one lass) will be starting an SVQ IT Course shortly and that they have computers on the premises.

The Nice Cafe and Bookshop is open to the public on Wednesdays from 10:30am - 3.00pm and serves filled rolls, posh biscuits, tea and fresh coffee. The guys there help prepare fresh baked scones and pancakes to order. Directions: Go into Kyleakin and turn RIGHT after the King Arms Hotel. You will the see the Nice Cafe sign right in front of you.

Thank you to everyone there for the warm reception and hospitality. (a bigger version of the pic is available on here)

Saturday 9th May 2009

LODGE REPAIRS

As with any older building The Lodge required repairs. It was found on lifting the floor to mend a springy joist that the rot was more extensive than first thought and that the recent inclement weather had brought more than "a scar o weet to mak the girse grow!" The sub floor was swimming in water and due to rot, Several of the beams will have to be replaced. You can read the entire story with pictures here ...

Saturday 4th April 2009

PROVINCIAL VISIT

The last meeting before Summer Recess saw the RWPGM Ramsay McGhee and his Delegation visiting Lodge Kyle. Ramsay said that there was a good level of professionalism in the working of our second degree and that it was splendid having a "live" candidate. Our congratulations to Br McKenzie on his passing to the second degree and heartfelt thanks to the Provincial Delegation and visitors for coming all the way to Kyle.

 

Saturday 4th April 2009

HEILAN SHED (NUMBER 6) VISITS LODGE KYLE

A bright spring afternoon saw the arrival in Kyle of The Corporation o' Squaremen, led by The Worthy Deacon Morris Downie. Having travelled from Inverness the men quickly made themselves at home and by 3 pm began procedings to initiate the candidate. A light hearted approach to Freemasonry made the proceedings fun for both the office bearers, brethren and last but not least the poor candidate who it must be said performed superbly given the (un)usual circumstances.

The generosity of all who attended was amply demonstrated by the fact that when the monies were divided evenly between Lodge Kyle and the Corporation, there was a three figure sum for each. The money will go to local (childrens') charities. The visiting Squaremen thanked Lodge Kyle for the use of the hall and Lodge Kyle waived the hire fee as the proceedings were in a good cause.

The Corporation

We of Lodge Kyle are most grateful that all the visitors took the time and effort to travel such a distance and put on a splendid performance, sharing their knowledge of the craft and keeping the ancient rituals of The Corporation alive.

Monday 3rd March 2009

VISITORS FROM GLASGOW & EAST KILBRIDE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Due to various circumstances our regular meeting saw more apologies than brethren. We had been hoping to have a rehearsal for a forthcoming degree but because four of the key players in all sincerity, could not make the meeting, we thought it best to postpone this part of the proceedings. However what could have been a brief and quiet meeting turned into a truly superb evening followed by a most enjoyable harmony which was almost entirely due to our two visitors from the central belt.

Joe Cain, PM Lodge Albert Ednard number 592 (Langside in Glasgow) and Brother Steven Lyon Lodge Douglas number 1557 (East Kilbride) both in the province Renfrew East arrived as part of their National Tour of Lodges in which they hope to visit most if not all the Lodges in Scotland. However due to the quiet evening they graciously offered to be Tyler and Senior Deacon allowing the meeting to proceed as scheduled.

PM Paul Newton then gave what can only be described as a perfect rendering of the explanation of the tracing board which offered an opportunity for all in attendance to gain a deeper understanding of the lecture.

Whilst not allowing us to practice floorwork and words for the degree next month, the contribution of our two visitors completely lifted the whole atmosphere of the meeting for which we are all sincerely grateful.

Steven, Bruce and Joe

It was also decided at the meeting that we should have photographs of all the Past Masters. It is only fitting to commemorate the superb achievement of going into the Chair of King Solomon, probably the zenith of any Freemason's Masonic career.

Monday 8th December 2008

INSTALLATION OF THE NEW MASTER

A large attendance of brethren from near and far witnessed the Installation of Bro. Bruce Taylor into the Chair of King Solomon. A dignified ceremony was followed by a harmony where the brethren caught up on provincial gossip. We all wish Bruce the very best in his new office.

RWPGM Ramsay McGhee congratulates RWM Bruce Taylor

As well as welcoming in RWM Bruce Taylor into the Chair, RWPGM Ramsay McGhee thanked PM Calum McKenzie for his superb efforts in the Chair; leading Lodge Kyle at home and on visitations throughout the Province in the previous two years. Lodge Kyle would like to thank all the dignitaries and visitors who came to the Installation.

Monday 1st December 2008

VISITORS FROM SOUTH AFRICA

The regular meeting of Lodge Kyle was attended by visitors from Dunoon, Portree and ... South Africa. The brethern from afar enjoyed the meeting and the hospitality thereafter. Thos attending were: from of the East Division of Cape of Good Hope: RWDPGM Donald Dye, Hon. Grand Piper Alistair Wilson and DPSW Donovan Dreyton. From Lodge Sonheu Wel No 1713 Bro Hein Buys and from Lodge Caledonia No 796 Bro Bennie Strydom.

The meeting include a mock Second Degree and one of the visitors from South Africa Brother Base, bravely 'volunteered' to be the candidate. His performance was most excellent. It was most illuminating hearing about the workings of their Lodges compared to those in Scotland. The RWM Calum MacKenzie presented them each with a Lodge Kyle Penny. The picture below is of the visitors and members of Lodge Kyle. For a LARGE version of the photo simply click the image.

Wednesday 27th August 2008 - 8pm

PROVINCIAL QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION

The provincial Lodge members travelled from far and wide to the Quarterly meeting, this time in Lodge Kyle. RW Provincial Grand Master Ramsay McGhee conducted the ceremony assisted by his team. After the meeting there was a much enjoyed harmony where we all go a chance to catch up on Lodge business and news from other parts of the country. Below is a group photo from the event.

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Sunday 25th May 2008 - 3.00 pm

A LODGE OF SORROW

In memory of the Late Brethren of the Province, The Annual Lodge of Sorrow was this year held in Lodge Kyle 1117. RW Provincial Grand Master Ramsay McGhee conducted the ceremony ably assisted by Brother The Reverend William Niven and the delegation from Provincial Lodge.

Roll of Brothers Departed was read out after which the piper played The Last Post and the the Slow Air. After the service, the lodge was closed with the piper playing Reveille.

The Brethren then had a splendid harmony.

Thank you to everyone who made the effort to attend this most poignant of ceremonies.

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April 7th 2008

VISIT FROM LODGE SEAFORTH

A delegation from Lodge Seaforth 854 travelled to Lodge Kyle on the 7th to work a DOUBLE Third Degree. The team did a marvellous job and the degree was enjoyed by all including the candidates who were subsequently congratulated on their achievement. RW Master Mackedddie and his team had obviously put a lot of hard work into rehearsing this degree and it showed in the floorwork and oration. Our sincere thanks and appreciation to the team who travelled from Fortrose and surrounding area for the occasion.

January 2008

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VISIT TO LODGE SEAFORTH - Monday 21st January.

Our delegation travelled to Fortrose and were made very welcome on arrival. The RW Master of Lodge Seaforth (Raymond Mackeddie) handed over the gavel to our RWM and we worked a Second Degree. After the ceremony we repaired to the extensive function halls adjoining the Lodge for a splendid Harmony. Calum and Raymond also chatted about the history of Lodge Seaforth and the cathedral in the village (built circa 1300) where a series of Mason Marks can be found. Around fifty of these were collected and drawn from the blocks around the base of the cathedral, a picture of which now hangs in the Lodge.

NEW WEBSITE:

The new website is expected to launch at the end of January, approvals permitting.

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December 2007

The Lodge Kitchen refurbishment was completed.

Visit to New Zealand
The photo below was taken in The Caledonian lodge No 16 in the city of Timaru on the South Island. The gentleman on the left is the WM of lodge Caledonian and the man on the right is another of the brethern, who all made us feel most welcome. When we were there we watched a second degree and then watched a ceremony of the exchanging of the gavels.