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Orator’s Offering
March 2012
Over the last few months a number of orations have been given across the Province. These include single orations with a degree ceremony. (This being the intention of Grand Lodge). Also multiple orations when there has been no ceremony to perform.
When multiple orations have been given these are generally given in each degree. i.e. The lodge is opened and the minutes etc are dealt with, the Lodge is then opened to the highest degree based on those present. An oration is given and the lodge is closed to a lower degree and orations are given, when all are Master Masons an oration is given in each of the degrees.
During the last three months fifteen orations have been presented in Lodges throughout the Province and we are keen to increase this. The PGM has indicated a desire that all Lodges should receive an oration, ideally at least one each year.
What are Orations?
Orations are individual, freestanding, short talks, which will focus on a particular aspect of the Craft and the deeper meaning of the ritual and its symbolism. The topics covered are as wide and varied as Freemasonry itself, and are based on various aspects of the three degrees. Each oration is 'tagged' as either 'beginner', 'intermediate', or 'advanced'. This does not mean that 'beginner' orations are any less worthwhile than the more advanced ones but, rather it enables a lodge to take further steps in Masonic knowledge at its own pace. They are not formal lectures and the intention is that they may often be followed by a discussion on the topic chosen. The orations are therefore intended as verbal communications only and accordingly will not be published or generally distributed. Also, perhaps more importantly, the orations will not be memorised but read, enabling the speaker to concentrate on the meaning.
How Many Orations Exist?
The Orations committee has released 59 Orations, covering the three degrees.
Who writes the Orations?
When published the orations are not attributed to any individual Brother, however any Brother can write an Oration. The Provincial Orator would like to encourage, and will be pleased to receive an oration written by any Brother who would like to do so, which he will submit to the Orations Committee for approval and subsequent inclusion as an Approved Oration of United Grand Lodge for presentation to all Provinces and Districts. Although not everyone feels they have the gift of writing, some brethren may have very worthwhile ideas or themes that could be developed into orations and they are encouraged to submit their ideas, particularly those new to our Order.
Perhaps we have such Brethren in Buckinghamshire?
How do I arrange an oration in my Lodge?
This can be done by using the link on the website here.
Alternatively you may wish to contact the Provincial Grand Orator directly, to discuss this further:
Bryan Harfield
Provincial Grand Orator
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
P.S. The Provincial Grand Orator is keen to find Brethren based in the northern half of the Province to assist is delivering and developing opportunities to deliver orations. Please contact The Provincial Grand Orator to discuss further.