Chairman’s Comments

In 2026, I had the great privilege of being elected Chairman of this esteemed Charity, succeeding Brother Andrew Godden. We owe Brother Andrew a deep debt of gratitude for his dedicated leadership during a period when the ongoing cost-of-living crisis significantly increased the demand for our assistance.

I would first like to acknowledge the dedication of our Officers, whose commitment ensures the Charity operates effectively and efficiently. In particular, I wish to recognise our Honorary Secretary and Treasurer. Their professionalism, diligence, and tireless work behind the scenes—coordinating our activities, maintaining our records, and overseeing the day-to-day administration of the Fund—are invaluable and greatly appreciated by us all.

I would also like to thank our Trustees for their continued guidance, sound judgement, and careful stewardship. Their oversight helps ensure that we remain true to our charitable purpose while safeguarding the long-term financial stability of the Fund.

Our Events Committee continues to work hard throughout the year, organising fundraising and social events that not only generate vital income but also strengthen the fellowship that lies at the heart of our organisation.

Special recognition must also go to the members who regularly attend our monthly meetings. Their attendance, participation, and thoughtful contributions are greatly valued. These meetings are not only where important decisions are made, but also provide an opportunity for fellowship, discussion, and mutual support. Their continued commitment strengthens both the work of the Charity and the spirit of Freemasonry upon which it is founded.

Over the past year, we have taken a number of important steps to ensure that the assistance we provide remains both relevant and meaningful. In recognition of rising living costs, we have increased our payment bands to better reflect the financial pressures faced by those seeking our support.

We have also reintroduced a Bereavement Grant of £500, available where a Lodge identifies a genuine need. In doing so, we have intentionally kept the application process straightforward and the paperwork to a minimum. Bereavement is an especially difficult and sensitive time, and we believe that widows and families should receive compassionate support without the added burden of unnecessary administration.

We have continued to receive an increasing number of one-off applications for assistance, many involving individuals considerably younger than those we have traditionally supported. Some of these cases have been deeply moving, and I believe we can all take pride in knowing that, on behalf of our Lodges, we have responded promptly, compassionately, and effectively to those in need.

We also continue to pursue the proposed merger between the Belfast Masonic Charity Fund and the Belfast Masonic Widows Fund. The matter is currently with our Solicitor and King's Counsel, and we remain hopeful that satisfactory progress will be made in due course.

Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Lodges, Chapters, Councils, Preceptories, and individual Brethren whose generous financial support makes our work possible. Without their continued kindness and commitment, we simply could not provide assistance to those who need it most.

It is an honour to serve as Chairman of this Charity. Together, with your continued support, I am confident that we will continue to uphold our Masonic principles of charity, compassion, and brotherly care for many years to come.