Rabia Temple: Needs vs Duties

Contributed by Alonzo Wilson Assistant Rabban Rabia Temple No. 8 Oasis of Jacksonville

To be a servant leader is nothing less than revolutionary. As a member of this distinctive order, my ardent prayer is always for the prosperity of our PHAmily. Rabia Temple No. 8 and Rabia Court No. 25 are blessed to have many Nobles and Daughters possessing a long list of accomplishments which should be noted consistently. However, occasionally, you come across someone who stands out while in the presence of the greats.

One Friday night I arrived at the Temple for the Imperial Deputy of the Desert’s Official Visitation. As I proceeded to enter, I walked into a conversation in which a certain gentleman and Imperial Deputy of the Desert Pierre Rutledge were deeply engaged. The last thing I heard Deputy Rutledge say was, “DO SOMETHING!” The gentleman engaged in conversation with Deputy Rutledge was none other than Past Potentate Rickey Torrence, Sr.

Torrence is best known throughout the Oasis of Jacksonville, Desert of Florida as well as his community for his philanthropy. My first introduction to this great man was in 2015 when I was a newly elected Worshipful Master. Not long after elections, I received a telephone call. It was him saying, “Worshipful Master, whatever you or the Lodge need, just call me!” Six years later, Torrence has been faithfully committed to those words. The unselfish care, concern and gentle correction that he extended to me and others are the consistent attributes that stay with me to this day.