Charity is one of the foundation stones of Freemasonry, and every Member is
expected to contribute to Masonic Charities, on a regular basis, according to
his financial circumstances. The four principal Masonic Charities provide
financial support and care for needy Freemasons and their dependants at every
stage in life; they also generously support a wide range of charitable causes
outside of Freemasonry. Freemasons do not raise money from the general public
so the Masonic Charities need the support of all Members of the Craft to enable
them to carry out their valuable work.
The most effective way of contributing, is to make a Regular Payment Promise
(RPP) under the Gift Aid Scheme which provides a tax refund for the benefit of
the charity concerned. RPPs are generally made monthly, by Direct Debit from
the donor's bank account, but contributions can be made in cash and on an
occasional or once-off basis.
Brethren usually make their charitable payments through their own Lodge. Lodges
then make payments to a whole range of charities, as and when the Members of
the Lodge vote to support a particular cause. These may be Masonic or for
causes outside of Freemasonry, whether local initiatives (e.g. a local hospice
or youth club) or national charities (e.g. Cancer Research, Lifeboats,
international disaster appeals).
Every Lodge in Somerset has a Charity Steward, and Brethren should approach
their Charity Steward for further information about the work of the Masonic
Charities and to make arrangements to contribute.
The Lodge Charity Steward.
The Charity Steward is responsible for raising charitable funds within his
Lodge, and for making recommendations about causes to support. He will
endeavour to foster a collective enthusiasm to support worthy causes and will
advise and assist members on tax-efficient giving.
To read the Charity
Stewards Report, click here
Contact: Provincial Charity Steward
