Lodge 640 History [13]

The Shinto ground-breaking and purification ceremony was held on 3rd July 1985. There was the usual scattering of beans, invocations to the four points of the compass, and ceremonial digging and spreading of the earth.

The Foundation Stone Laying and Dedication ceremony was held on 28th September 1985, with Bro. Alex Purves, District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of the Far East, as the officiating officer. After assembling at the Lodge's temporary premises the Brethren proceeded to the site of the new temple. There, in full regalia, and in due and ancient form, the foundation stone was laid and the building dedicated.

Bro Alex Purves, the Right Worshipful District Grand Master, pours the Wine and Oil on the cornerstone. Observing is Bro Rikki Duncan, the Right Worshipful District Grand Superintendent.

Taking part in the ceremony were several District Grand Lodge Officers and a full complement of Lodge Officers and Brethren from Lodge Star in the East. Also in attendance were MWB Tommy Fujino, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Japan and Brethren from Far East Lodge No. 1, GL of Japan, in addition to several visiting Brethren from the United Grand Lodge of England.