The Provincial Executive decided to do something special to help celebrate the centenary of the Mark Province of Durham in 2020. They formed an idea to let every Mark and Mariner Lodge identify a worthy cause that benefits children and young adults. The Lodge would then present a cheque from the Mark Centenary Fund to their chosen cause.
The Lodges in Birtley and one from Gateshead held a presentation event on Saturday 29th February 2020. The chosen causes were invited to attend to receive the donation from the Lodge and enjoy a social evening to mark the occasion. The social evening took place at Birtley Masonic Hall and Norman Oyston provided some musical entertainment for the packed hall. A lovely buffet was provided by the Lodges along with a prize raffle.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, David Hanson was on hand to assist the Lodge make the presentation and Malcolm Graham was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. A cheque for £1000 was presented to each of the chosen causes.
The 5 Lodges and their chosen causes are:
Moseley Mark Lodge – St. John’s Ambulance cadets, Chester-le-Street
Moseley Mariner Lodge – Skills 4 Work
Durham Lodge of Installed Mark Masters – Chester-le-Street Air Cadets
Washington Mark Lodge – Valley Road Academy
Monument Mariner Lodge – St. John’s Ambulance cadets, Gateshead
Each group took the opportunity to talk about their work and how it benefits children and young people as well as society in general. They went on to explain how the funds would be put to good use and would be providing benefit. It was clear to everyone present the difference these groups were making to young peoples lives.
It was an excellent evening with some guests taking the opportunity to be guided round the Masonic Hall and receive a brief explanation of Freemasonry. Well done to the Lodges for marking the presentation in such style.