The purpose of the Travelling Gavel is to encourage visitation among Lodges within the District. The Lodge with the most Brethren accompanying the District Deputy Grand Master on his visit to another Lodge is declared the winner for that evening. At the end of the Masonic year, the Lodge that has won the most visits is awarded the Travelling Gavel and has its name engraved on it. This has become a source of pride and bragging rights for the winning Lodges.
The cornerstone is the first stone laid in the construction of a masonry foundation, serving as the reference point for the positioning and alignment of all subsequent stones. This foundational stone determines the integrity and strength of the entire edifice.
Given its crucial role in establishing a strong foundation, the cornerstone symbolizes the importance of a solid base in one’s life for Freemasons. It serves as a reminder of the value of a well-established and balanced foundation.
The Cornerstone Program was designed to encourage and recognize Lodges that develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive annual Lodge program. This program promotes Lodge activities, fosters brotherhood, supports charitable work, and enhances community involvement. By doing so, it helps to build a robust foundation for the Lodge, ensuring its vitality and continuity for future generations.
In 1958, the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario formed what would be known as the “Blood Donor Committee” with the purpose of informing Masons of the great work the Canadian Blood Services were doing, and encouraging them to donate.
“The good news is that one blood donation—in just one hour—can save up to three lives.”
Learn more and donate at https://www.blood.ca/en
