A Message from John Briggs Provincial Grand Charity Steward
W.Bro. John Briggs,
Provincial Grand Charity Steward
Brethren,
To be asked to take on the role of Provincial Grand Charity Steward is an honour and a privilege, and a further step on the ladder to Masonic achievement, of being able to help those less fortunate than ourselves.
I was appointed Provincial Grand Charity Steward in the Craft on the 13th May 2014 at the Provincial AGM.
Going back in history, I was Initiated into Citadel Lodge, No. 1897 on the 24th January 1994. I am a Member of 6 Craft Lodges (2 Middlesex Masters) and 3 Royal Arch Chapters.
I have been involved in charity matters for over 21 years, from when I first joined the Harrow section of the Charity Forum.
I am now 63 years young and have been married to Lesley for over 40 years, with 2 sons and five grandchildren. My hobbies are football, golf, and the fine arts.
My position as Provincial Grand Charity Steward is to communicate effectively the desire of the Rulers of the Province, with respect to charity and to forward their message through the channels of Charity Stewards, and Festival Stewards (when in festival mode), throughout all the Lodges of the Province.
Too often we call upon a Freemason to give "freely" in the name of “Charity”, without ensuring that the individual understands the relevance of charity in the context of Freemasonry.
Charity, whether it be in the provision of financial assistance to our beneficiaries, or to local non-Masonic Charities and "good causes", it is one of the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, putting into practice, that which we have been taught.
The 2020 RMTGB Festival raised £4,519,500 thanks to all the great support and generosity of Middlesex Masons.
Support for those less fortunate than ourselves has been a feature of our Masonic activity throughout the history of this Province.
Charity, since its earliest days, has been the essence of Freemasonry but, unlike other fund raising organisations, most of the money raised comes from the Members own pockets.
It is, however, entirely up to the individual Member what he gives to charity, but it should always be without detriment to himself, or his connections.
The three Great Principles by which we stand are Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and work as individuals.
Brethren, please remember if you need any help in any way, please contact me on 01442 461718 Email - thebriggs_family@hotmail.com
Kind regards
John
Brethren your support matters, let's shape the future together
