The large wall clock with
Masonic symbols sits behind
the Master's chair
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Time marches on
Lodges set up for educational and research purposes come
in many forms, but Lodge of Expiation No. 9290, Province
of Hampshire & Isle of Wight, has taken an interesting turn.
Consecrated in 1988, the germs of the idea of such a Lodge
began 11 years earlier when Michael Oliver was a Mason in
Ceylon, who wanted a Lodge that would look at spiritual
and moral education within the Craft.
After other overseas tours of duty and in Cornwall, where
he was an active Mason, Michael Oliver moved to Ringwood
in Hampshire in
1979, and in 1988 the Lodge of Expiation
was consecrated at the Bournemouth International Centre.
Where this particular educational Lodge has taken an
unusual turn arose out of the Province's 2005 Festival for
the New Masonic Samaritan Fund. Lodge charity steward
Derf Paton decided to produce a number of clocks with
special Masonic designs based on Lodge offices.
These vary from a 20 inch wall clock to a small white
personal travel alarm clock. Derf Paton spent a great deal
of time researching the emblems for the face of the clock.
Each clock comes with a detailed explanation of the Masonic
symbolism and the thought behind the design, and he has put
together a ten-minute lecture on the symbolism of the clocks.
The numbers on the clock have symbols representing:
1 Chaplain; 2 Director of Ceremonies; 3 Junior Warden;
4 Almoner; 5 Organist; 6 Senior Warden; 7 Inner Guard;
8 Charity Steward; 9 Secretary; 10 Treasurer; 11 Senior
Deacon; 12 The Master.
The two great pillars, square and compasses, Bible and
"G" for God complete the face, which is on the light blue
Master Mason apron colour.
The face is intended to teach the onlooker to reflect on
the importance of charity, and that all Masons are expected
to willingly give of their time, helping those less fortunate
than themselves. Happiness stays with those who give it
their time away.
A large wall clock is currently on display at the Library
& Museum of Freemasonry at Grand Lodge and at the
Masonic Hall, Lymington in Hampshire. They are ideal
for individuals and Masonic halls.
Expiation Lodge has also produced a book of Masonic
lectures by Masons in the Province entitled The 2005
Collection as well as a book of Masonic music, put together
by Bill Hale, which are suitable for Lodge meetings.
It is hoped that a CD of the music, played on the organ
at Grand Lodge, will be available in the near future.
The clocks are available through the Freemasons' Hall
shop - Letchworth's - T. 020 7395 9329.
The books (£10 each) can be obtained from the Lodge
secretary: H. Hipkiss, 4 Castle Mews, Ringwood, Hampshire
BH24 2BG. Email: Horace@hhipkiss.freeserve.co.uk
Derf Paton is a member of Lodge of Expiation No. 9290
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