Masonic Charity and
non-Masonic causes are at the heart of what we do.
London Freemasonry
has a long established history with both Masonic and non-Masonic causes in the
community. First Artificer Lodge is no exception and for every
member giving to Masonic charity and
other good causes is close to their heart. Donations are made in a
variety of ways. The most common is giving at Lodge meetings – Alms collections
are made and each Mason will give privately what he can afford and within his
means. From its earliest days the Lodge
and its members have supported Masonic Charities and the Royal Masonic
Hospital.
Historically
we have supported the following Masonic Charity
- Royal
Masonic Hospital Grand Patron Lodge.
- Vice
Patron Royal Masonic Institution for Boys.
- Vice
President Royal Masonic Institution for Girls.
- Vice President
Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.
- Patron of
the New Masonic Samaritan Fund.
- Leukaemia
Research.
- Crisis.
- Asthma
Concern.
- The
Jubilee Sailing Trust.
- Haven
House Children’s Hospice.
- Richard
House Hospice.
The Lodge maintains a healthy Lodge Relief Chest funded
by Gift Aid contributions and the proceeds of the Charity collection. The Relief Chest
is used to distribute not only to Masonic Charities but also to provide support
in times of need to Brethren or their dependents. We
regularly keep in touch with members widows and dependants, and at Christmas we
send a card along with a gift to remind them that we are here should they
require our support anytime. The Lodge members remain mindful of the
needs of others in their daily life.
It is
traditional in many Masonic Lodges to hold an annual Ladies Festival where
members wives, partners, friends and non-masons are invited for an evening of
formal dining and dancing. Most
of our Lodge Social activities found on our calendar.
