Welcome to issue 46 in which you will again see articles from new contributors, for which we are very grateful. I make no apology for repeating the message that, as always, we really do encourage anyone who has a good story to tell, to please get in touch with us. There is no magic radar; we are completely reliant upon you telling us what is going on in your Lodge or Masonic Hall.

As is usual at this time of the year, we have published the list of Provincial Appointments and Promotions, and I am certain that there is much excitement amongst those who are looking forward to being invested with Provincial Honours at the forthcoming Provincial Craft and Chapter meetings at Margate. I would like to add my personal congratulations to all those whose hard work and
commitment has been recognised and rewarded.

Also featured in this issue is RWBro John Bonomy’s heartwarming obituary to RWBro John Porter, who served East Kent well as Provincial Grand Master during a period of great change between 1981 and 1992. Those who served with him will surely remember him with great respect and admiration, and the Province is the better for having enjoyed his stewardship at that time.

In the previous issue there were a number of items which related to other countries, and the influence of East Kent Freemasonry within them. In this issue there is an article from the Worshipful Master of a Dover Lodge who has developed a unique relationship with a Lodge in Idaho. There is also a piece about Freemasons from East Kent coming together on cruise ships with Brethren from other areas of Britain as well as almost every part of the globe, to celebrate that great sense of familiarity and continuity which accompanies membership of our very special Institution, and to practice the benevolence and charity which is so much a part of what we stand for. Recently, our Deputy Provincial Grand Master very kindly forwarded to me some Masonic magazines from Australia, in which it is clear to see the vibrant, energetic, and innovative nature of Freemasonry in that part of the world. Long may Freemasonry continue to make good men better, that the world may be a better place.

I am very lucky. People are always sending me happy news: lodge members are having fun at a particular event; someone is celebrating a special Masonic occasion; a charity or worthy cause is receiving the benefit of a Lodge’s generosity. Of course, sometimes the sad news arrives of a Brother who has reached his inevitable destiny, but mostly the post bag brings good tidings from across this magnificent, diverse Province of ours. During the annual Ceremony of Installation of each Lodge, an Address is given which encourages all present to “have one aim in view, to please each other and unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.”

What a wonderful maxim for us all to carry with us. As well as being lucky, I am also privileged to be the one who is charged with communicating happiness to you through these pages. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

Roger Waltham

From Ed46, P2