THE DUTIES OF A LODGE ALMONER

Keep in touch with those Brethren who are not attending Lodge Meetings regularly to satisfy himself that there is no financial or other need.

Visit those Brethren who are indisposed.

Be in regular communication with dependants of deceased Brethren, being prepared to offer as much assistance as he can. Most Lodges remember Widows at Christmas; this action is to be commended.

To be aware of the kind of help which is available from central and local government sources as well as from national and local charities and be prepared to assist in obtaining help from these sources.

Be prepared to act on behalf of the Province of East Kent in making visits on behalf of Lodges from other Provinces.

Request assistance from the Provincial Grand Almoner of the Province of East Kent in arranging visits to Lodge Members or their dependants who live in other parts of the country or abroad.

Almoners should be aware that in cases of doubt help is always available from the Provincial Grand Almoner.

Any application for assistance should always be dealt with as a matter of urgency. The Almoner should be prepared to act on his own initiative, or a meeting of the Lodge committee should be called.

Almoners are particularly requested to assure those who seek financial help that the information given in support of a petition will be treated as confidential. Great care should be taken in making reports to the Lodge that confidentiality is maintained.

Every member of the Lodge should be encouraged to support the Almoner in his work by making visits on his behalf and by bringing to his notice as quickly as possible any known case of distress.

Before considering making application for help from Masonic Charities the Almoner should offer what assistance he can to make certain that the applicant is obtaining or is aware of help which is available from statutory sources e.g. DSS and Local Authorities.



A I T Jones
Provincial Grand Almoner


 

Top of Page