Almoner

Almoner’s were known in England since around the 1300 hundreds, he was traditional a chaplain or church officer who originally was in charge of distributing charity. Historically, almoners were Christian religious functionaries whose duty was to distribute alms to the poor. Monasteries were required to spend one tenth of their income in charity to the poor (a tithe). Bishops kept their own almoners and almoners were attached to the courts to the Kings of France. Charles VIII of France had a Grand Almoner in his employ. In the United Kingdom, the Marquees of Exeter also holds the title of hereditary Grand Almoner. Today, however, one of the most prominent such offices is that of the Anglican Lord High Almoner. (A title dating from 1103) The High Almoner ((currently Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch, Bishop of Manchester) correct April 2009)) who is responsible for organising the Queen's annual distribution of Maundy money on Maundy Thursday. The "Almoner of His Holiness," the pope's official almoner, continues in office even after the pope dies. He "continues to carry out works of charity in accordance with the criteria employed during the pope's lifetime". The name almoner was also used for a hospital official who interviews prospective patients to qualify them as indigent, and was later applied to the officials who were responsible for patient welfare and after-care. This position is now usually filled by Medical social workers. The title "almoner" has fallen out of use in English, but its equivalents in other languages are often used for many pastoral functions covered by chaplains or pastors. The Almoner remains an active and important office in Masonic Lodges in England. His duty is to oversee the needs of the Brethren within his Lodge. He is the contact for Charity and looks after the welfare of the members, Widow’s including visits to the sick, aged and infirm. 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. Remembering 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. Provincial Grand Almoner for East Kent is, A I T Jones East Kent Provincial Charities Association (It is acceptable to use `EKPCA`) 11, Boorman Way, Estuary View Business Park, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 3SE Telephone number: 01227 272944 (This is the same for both) www.ekpca.org.uk