On Thursday,23rd January 2025, the Ashton District Lodge of Masters No. 8341 (ADLIM) convened at Albert House in Ashton-under-Lyne.
They welcomed WBro. Wesley Marchant PJGD, AProvGM, along with Grand Officers and a delegation from the Southern Area. The primary business of the evening was to Install WBro Michael Leon Porter PProvGSwdB, the SW and ME, as Master of the lodge for the ensuing year. The other significant business was the presentation of a £ 500 donation to the APGM for the 2026 Festival.
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The APGM and Officers of the Lodge
To date, the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire 2026 Festival Appeal has received pledges totalling £1,773,256, and the total cash received, including Gift Aid, is £1,368,981.
Forty-one per cent of the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) ‘s total income comes from the Provincial Festival appeal, underlining the generosity of Freemasons and their families. The funds generated make a significant difference to many communities and individuals.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) is the core of Freemasonry’s charitable efforts. It serves as the principal grant-giving organisation for Freemasons, but its reach extends beyond them; it aims to assist all those in need. The MCF is one of the largest grant-making charities in the country. Each year, it supports thousands of people, contributing millions of pounds to local and national charities and other essential services that create a real and lasting impact in communities.
The MCF’s mission is to build better lives. It provides opportunities, enhances access to healthcare and education, and empowers individuals to gain the independence necessary to thrive. Significantly, the foundation’s work benefits Freemasons, their families, and the wider community.
What sets the MCF apart is its provision of life-changing support. It’s not just about financial grants, although those are crucial. They also offer practical help, expert advice, and hands-on assistance, creating a safety net that people can genuinely rely on. Whether funding a local charity that makes a difference or providing direct aid to someone facing difficulties, the MCF is there, quietly working to improve the world, step by step. One of the final items on the agenda of every meeting is ‘To take a collection for good causes’. Freemasons, in general, do not merely contribute to assisting the community; many actively participate in local events and activities that benefit those around them.
As is customary at an installation, the Hall Chef prepared an exceptionally special meal for the festive board, ensuring an enjoyable evening. The traditional raffle again raised additional funds for charitable causes.