Kansas Mason Fall 2016

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Volume 54 Issue 3

V

K

M

The Kansas Mason H E

O I C E

O F

A N S A S

A S O N R Y

A Publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas

STRONGER TOGETHER Grand Lodge and Prince Hall

Fall 2016

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FROM THE GRAND EAST Lyn E. Beyer. Grand Master of Masons 2016-2017

New Programs, Progress and Service Dominate Grand Master’s First Months

for their friendship and hospitality.

As I travel, I try to spread and plant the seeds of unity within our Craft. My goal

Brothers, Western Kansas Grand Masters Reception well attended by Past Grand Masters

The first three months have flown by quickly.

Some of the highlights have been the Western Reception in Hugoton

is to speak at all our Appendant Bodies and Youth Groups during my tenure. So far, I am on track. The message of unity between all Brothers is being heard and the response has been positive.

where we awarded four 50-year emblems

All Brothers have unique talents and

along with widow’s pins and a scholarship.

abilities, and I would like to encourage all

Sincere thanks to David Eckert and Bruce

Brothers to be creative and use these to fur-

Bentz for all their hard work. Also, thanks

ther their Lodge missions. Use those talents

to Old Mission Lodge No. 153 and

amazing what can be accomplished when the

to bring Brothers back to active status, help

Abdallah Shrine for my Eastern Recep-

Craft is united toward common goals.

your community, your Lodge and each other.

tion. The Grand York Rite and Order of

Prince Hall Grand Lodge went

Travel to support your District and Area

the Eastern Star annual sessions received

smoothly and Larry Coleman was elected

Deputies. Help neighboring Lodges with

my remarks on unity well. We have done

to a second term as Grand Master. Our

degree work. Take your Masonic experience

dedications at Rosedale Lodge No. 333

two Grand Lodges are working very well

to new levels by spending some personal

(125 years); Xenia Lodge No. 47 (150

together. This fall, Prince Hall will have

time learning, reading and studying.

years); and the DeBruce Center at Kansas

some involvement in our Leadership

University honoring James Naismith.

Academy, presenting in two of the

August 14 at the CommunityAmerica

It has been an honor to serve.

classrooms. I wish to thank their forward-

Ballpark at Legends in Kansas City,

looking leadership for placing Brothers and

Kansas to see the Kansas City T-Bones.

education as a priority.

The tailgating alone is worth the trip. Let’s

I have represented Grand Lodge and KMF at Emporia State University for the

Lastly, the All Masonic Family Day is

all plan on attending and have a fun day with

Kansas Masonic Literacy Center; to Kansas

The true blessings have come in the

University at Overland Park to kick off the

Lodges as I and my officers have presented

our Brothers, their families and celebrating

Masonic Cancer Alliance; and at Kansas State

many emblems. We have, also, been to

Kansas Masonry.

University to introduce the Kansas Mason

several homes and care facilities awarding

Pride Communities of Excellence Program;

emblems to Brothers who can no longer

the Military Affairs Partnership; and Kansas

travel. Two special memories will be the

Masonic Entrepreneurship Challenge.

awarding of a 60-year emblem to Arris

Lyn Beyer

RW Cole Presley did the same at Fort Hays

Johnson, PGM and a 25-year emblem to

Grand Master

State University by introducing the Adult

Lawrence Mersberg, PGM.

Speech, Language and Hearing Services.

This is truly the most impor-

All these programs are part of the Building

tant and satisfying of all

Kansas campaign introduced at our Annual

my duties and the most

Communication by the Executive Director

rewarding. I would like to thank the

of the KMF, Brother Bob Shively. It is truly

Lodges and Brothers I have visited

Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614

Fraternally,

AT THE

BALLPARK FALL 2016 1

GRAND SECRETARY

By Tracy L. Bloom, PGM, Grand Secretary

Modernizing Masonry: Volunteers needed to digitize records

tion with the Grand

One of the goals of this Grand Lodge of-

mation on relatives. These cards date back

Secretary of North

fice, over the short- and long-term, is to

to the origins of this Grand Lodge and are an

Carolina, Walt Clapp, at the Conference of

preserve as much of our history digitally as

indispensable resource for member history.

Grand Secretaries, he indicated his Grand

Last year we received an estimate to

Jurisdiction had just finished such a project

possible. To date, working with Dylan Kuhlman our Grand Lodge Archivist, we

scan and index the cards so their informa-

and had purchased a scanner capable of

have 100 percent of charters digitally pre-

tion could be accessed via the Grand Lodge

scanning cards, just as we would need. Their

served, all of the published proceedings and

internal network system, digitally preserved

project being complete, and the scanner

are embarking on another leg of the digiti-

on our servers, which would equate to

now sitting in a corner of their Grand Lodge

zation journey very soon. I mention this fact

less time required to retrieve information,

building not being used, he offered it to us

because this particular project will require

no more stairs to climb, no more pinched

at no charge; we just need to pay shipping

help from the Craft on a voluntary basis.

fingers and quicker turnaround times for

to get it here. So, needless to say, we have acquired a digital scanner as the first leg in this journey. Next, we will need volunteers to index the cards so they can be looked up digitally in a database. The indexing system will be web based, with a minimal monthly fee for unindexed cards in the queue, which volunteers can log on to at their convenience (once they have an account) to index one or 100 cards at their leisure.

I estimate this project to take a year to complete once we are up and running and cards are made available for the volunteers. Of course, the completion will naturally depend on the number of volunteers who step for-

Prior to 1975, all membership information was kept on 3” x 5” index cards in

ward. I have estimated the

a massive card file storage system at the

cost of this project, with

Grand Lodge Office. We estimate there

volunteers to index the

are between 340,000 to 350,000 cards in

cards, to be less than

our card catalogue. These cards we access

$5,000, a significant savings from the quoted price of $54,000.

almost daily gathering information for other

requests. The estimate was quite shocking,

Grand Jurisdictions, looking up genealogy

$54,000. That is no small number, and even

information from requests coming from our

if the per capita tax issue had passed, that

will soon be looking for volunteers to help

web page, random phone requests and email

number would still be prohibitive.

aid and assist your Grand Lodge in this

messages of people looking for bits of infor-

2 THE KANSAS MASON

As luck would have it, in a conversa-

Please watch for further details. We

archival endeavor.

or a

LE f F F A R sting a o h s i tion a d n u o onic F s a M s sa

G N A T S U M

D R BLE O I T R F E 5 ONV C 6 9 1 n The Ka

easury.

o

rectly t

with

75%

ing di ised go

ge tr the Lod

eds ra

roce of the p

This is an opportunity for you to “help out” your Lodge and support the Lodges charitable work in the community.

C-Code 289 cubic inch V8 engine, 60,785 miles, automatic transmission, power steering, front disc brakes, 14 chrome styled steel wheels with radial

Drawing is on Saturday, – November 5, 2016 at Noon

white wall tires, classic red exterior with a black convertible top and boot,

Capitol Plaza Hotel, Topeka, Kansas

AM/FM/Cassette radio.

driver’s chrome sport mirror, black bucket seat interior with center console,

We are asking you to either sell or purchase tickets yourself, if you so desire.

This beautiful Mustang Convertible is ready for a cruise down memory lane!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

www.kansasmason.org

The Kansas Mason Established 1963

I recently received a raffle from the Kansas

goal was to endow

Masonic Foundation—what’s that about?

the fund at $1.5

M

any Kansas Masonic Lodges continue

million. To date we

to struggle in developing meaning-

are nearly 80% at

The Kansas Mason is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, formally organized March 17, 1856.

The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas 320 SW 8th Avenue Topeka, Kansas, 66603-3912

ful fundraising events that can provide the

$1.2 million fund-

necessary funds

ed. Also during the

for local philan-

past three years, the fund distributed almost

thropic efforts

$85,000 to those in need. While the initial 1965 TANG US MRT B E RTIIBL FORD CONVE

and other needed initiatives. The Kansas Ma-

is ready

for a cru

e!

ory lan

n mem

ise dow

vertible

stang Con

$1.5 million endowment seemed sufficient for the fund, it will most likely be necessary,

utiful Mu

This bea

75% of Ticket Sales will

given the average age of our Brothers (67),

BeneďŹ t Kansans and Kansas Communities Through the 220 Kansas Statewide Masonic

sonic Foundation

Lodges and the 18,000

to continue to grow the fund beyond the

Kansas Masons Drawing is on Saturday, – November 5, 2016 at Noon

launched a program three years

Capitol Plaza Hotel Topeka, Kansas

$20

RGT TCHÇŤG VKEMGV

on Inc. Kansas Masonic Foundati and Kansas 75% of Ticket Sales BeneďŹ t Kansans Statewide Communities Through the 220 Kansas Kansas Masons Masonic Lodges and the 18,000

$20 4CHǧG

PXGTVKDNG WIN C %NCUUKE /WUVCPI %Q

ago to provide $1,000 matching

Drawing is on Saturday, – November 5, 2016 at Noon

Capitol Plaza Hotel, Topeka, Kansas

No. 0-00-000 0

$1.5 million initial objective.

As such, the auction will continue for the foreseeable future

funds annually to each statewide

during Annual Communication. Quite frankly,

Lodge to further encourage local philan-

most attending the auction have a great time,

thropic involvement and activity. The Foun-

and it deďŹ nitely is for an important cause!

I really like the idea of the

in local charitable work. To this end, the

All Masonic Family Event!

Kansas Masonic Foundation developed a new

T

Lodge Charitable Program that signiďŹ cantly

his idea was

a joint meeting of the

Lodge with no risk to the Lodge. Seventy-

Masonic Appendant

ďŹ ve (75%) of the raffle proceeds beneďŹ t the

Bodies held during

individual Lodges.

Photos may be submitted through Flickr at www.ickr.com/groups/kansasmason/

2 Annual nd

generated from

increases the available funds raised for the

Daren L. Kellerman’s

AT THE

BALLPARK

Kansas City T-Bones Community America Ballpark 1800 Village West Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas

Sunday, August 14th from 11-5 SPONSORED BY: Grand Lodge Of Kansas Kansas Masonic Foundation Abdallah Shrine Arab Shrine

Isis Shrine Midian Shrine Mirza Shrine Scottish Rite Orient Of Kansas Grand York Rite Bodies Of Kansas

term as Grand Master.

Will the Freemasons Endowment

This long overdue event allows for all Kansas

Auction continue every year during

Masons from across the state and their fami-

Annual Communication?

lies to come together for fun and fellowship.

O

ver the previous three years, the

This year’s event, A Day At The Ballpark

auction has raised almost $200,000

(registration included with this copy of The

beneďŹ ting our Brothers, widows, mothers

Kansas Mason), will certainly offer a variety

and orphans in time of need. When the Free-

of activities and events for the entire family.

masons Endowment was started in 2013, the

Plan to attend!!

If you have any questions that you would like addressed on Masonry, Grand Lodge, Kansas Masonic Foundation, Kansas Masonic Home, this publication or its articles, please send your questions to Editor@KansasMason.org or mail to Kansas Masonic Foundation, Attn. Kansas Mason Editor, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.

4 THE KANSAS MASON

SUBMIT ARTICLES: by email to editor@kansasmason.org or mail to KMF Editorial 2909 SW Maupin Lane Topeka, KS, 66614 All submissions may be in electronic format or hard copy and become the property of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas.

dation wants every Lodge to take advantage of these matching funds and get involved

The Kansas Mason (ISSN 2380-372X) is published quarterly (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane,Topeka, KS 66614-5335 at the direction of the Council of Administration from the office of The Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. Periodicals Postage Paid at Topeka, KS 66675.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Kansas Mason, 2909 SW Maupin Lane,Topeka, KS 66614.

No compensation is allowed or intended for any articles, photographs, or other material submitted or published.

Advertising Guidelines for The Kansas Mason can be found on the Grand Lodge website.

NOTE: Permission to reprint material appearing in The Kansas Mason will be granted upon written request to the Grand Secretary from recognized Master Masons.

Other written requests will be considered by the Council of Administration. When reprinted, articles should note “Reprinted with permission of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. (month and year)�.

The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reect those of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, its officers or employees. Š

2014 by the MW Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. All rights reserved. The Grand Lodge seal and the logos “Kansas Mason,� and “Kansas Freemasons/On The Level� are trademarks of the MW Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, and all rights are reserved.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THE GRAND EAST 1 New Programs, Progress and Service

Dominate Grand Master’s First Months GRAND LODGE 6

2016 Leadership Academy: The Full Package of Lodge Leadership

Explore the Craft at District Schools of Instruction 10 Opportunity Knocks: 8

Mentoring through Activity 13

Millennial Masons Cornerstones of the Future Temple

FEATURE ARTICLE

The Roots of Today's Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas Were Born in England in Late 1700s 18 Grand Lodge and Prince Hall:

15

Growing Stronger Together 22

First Kansas AF&AM Serving As Prince Hall Lodge Worshipful Master

Grand Master Richard R. Rees

DEPARTMENTS 2 GRAND SECRETARY Modernizing Masonry: Volunteers needed to digitize records 4 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 24 LODGE OF RESEARCH Finding Him Worthy A Kansas Mason's Courage 28 MEMBER INTERVIEW Shawn Cardin

32 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Band Camp Thank You BUILDING KANSAS Masonic Cancer Alliance Naming a Charity in EP Documents Pledge Giving To Date A Shining Example of the Kansas Masons Scholarship Program Thank You From The Students

29 AROUND THE WORLD The Modern Cowan

45 HOME WARMINGS Deep Roots Stabilize Kansas Masonic Home

30 FROM THE ARCHIVES The Founding Documents

47 BOOK REVIEW 49 OUT AND ABOUT 52 EVENTS CALENDAR

The Kansas Mason (ISSN 2380-372X) is published quarterly (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, KS 66614-5335 at the direction of the Council of Administration from the office of The Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. Periodicals Postage Paid at Topeka, KS 66675. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Kansas Mason, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, KS 66614.

FALL 2016 5

GRAND LODGE

By B. Cole Presley, Deputy Grand Master

2016 Leadership Academy: THE FULL PACKAGE OF LODGE LEADERSHIP For many new officers, of any Lodge, the

creeps into the East or the South East cor-

prospect of not only holding an office, but

ner, a Lodge has already begun the steady

advancing to the East can be a troubling

decline to existing only in history.

affair. Many of us recall during our service in office that we spent much time working on proficiency so we did not embarrass

FESTIVITIES WILL BEGIN WITH A TABLE LODGE

ourselves or our Lodge when we took the East. After all, no self-respecting Master of a Lodge wants to perform his ceremonial duties with the aid of a cipher. This drives many of us to focus on simply studying the ritual. While no one can argue this pursuit is laudable, it is only one piece of Lodge Leadership. What soon becomes apparent to the new Master is that while he is

ACADEMY IS BEING BROKEN DOWN INTO TWO DISTINCT TRACKS GATHERING TO HONOR SEVERAL OF OUR PAST GRAND MASTERS REVIEW OF THE BOOK, MACOY’S WORSHIPFUL MASTER’S ASSISTANT

proficient, he is woefully unprepared to lead the Lodge in terms of budgeting, building

MANY GREAT SPEAKERS

care, long-term planning and many other endeavors that require his attention. The result is often that these tasks get laid at the

“I don’t know what I don’t know” certainly

feet of the Secretary. Most often the Secre-

applies to every new Lodge officer. The

tary is familiar with the process because he

key to ensuring Lodges survive and thrive is

has done it before. If he is a Past Master,

training, and our goal with the 2016 Leader-

he has some understanding of how to coach or mentor the new Master.

ship Academy is to provide that training.

This year the academy is being broken down

However, if the Master is only

into two distinct tracks. The first track is

concerned with ensuring that

for current and past Masters, as well as

he is proficient and leaves the

those Brothers who do not currently hold

Secretary to handle the rest, burnout

6 THE KANSAS MASON

So what is the solution? The old saying

an office. The track, of course, will address

and apathy are created in a short period of

topics such as history, mentoring, assist-

time. Sadly, we all know that when apathy

ing Lodge Leaders and an exploration of

Prince Hall Freemasonry. The second track

gathering to honor several of our Past Grand

will be on hand to discuss our new campaign

is designed for Lodge Secretaries and every

Masters with a toast/roast. Saturday morning

and its progress. By now you are aware that

Lodge officer from the Senior Warden all

will kick off early at 8 a.m. and will feature

instead of an on-line auction this fall, the

the way to the Tyler. This specific track ad-

a review of the book, “Macoy’s Worshipful

Foundation started a raffle for 1965 Ford

dresses not just proficiency and ceremonies

Master’s Assistant.” It has been revised and

Mustang. Lodges are able to keep 75 percent

but fiscal stability, long range-planning, can-

edited by Past Grand Master Michael Halle-

of the proceeds from sale of the tickets and

didate care and other topics that impact a

ran, who will be on hand to discuss many

the drawing for the car will be held during

lodge every day. More importantly, our aim is to prepare each and every officer not only for his next seat, but to give him tools to assist the Master and Secretary in perform-

THIS YEAR’S ACADEMY IS ALSO DESIGNED NOT JUST TO EDUCATE BUT TO ENTERTAIN.

ing some of the heavy lifting that goes on facets of the book. Oh, by the way, every

lunch. We have many other great speakers

This year’s academy is also designed not

Master Mason who registers for the Leader-

planned for this academy and it is certainly

just to educate but to entertain. The festivi-

ship Academy at least 30 days in advance will

one you do not want to miss. By the time

ties will begin on Friday evening, November

receive a copy of this book for free! It has a

you are reading this article, our registration

4, with a Table Lodge in the Capitol Plaza

retail price of $40 any other time. During our

page will be open. So don’t delay. Get regis-

Hotel. The evening will end with an outside

lunch break, the Kansas Masonic Foundation

tered to attend now!

behind the scenes.

TRESTLE BOARD OF KANSAS MASONS The Grand Lodge of Kansas, new Google calender.

This new calender is limited to DEGREE WORK, REGULAR STUDY CLUBS and SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTIONS. To add this new Google Calender to your own calender, to get notifications, or to add your Lodge’s upcoming Ritual event, or to add your Regular Study Club meetings to it, please send your request for access, via email to

trestle@kansasmason.org

FALL 2016 7

GRAND LODGE

By Robert C. Talbott, Grand Junior Warden & Grand Lecturer

Explore the Craft at District Schools of Instruction To All Master Masons: The season is about to begin for the District Schools of Instruction. Once again, we continue the time-honored tradition of meeting to study our gentle craft and ensure we maintain our ritual, which is our heritage. When you get down to the core of what distinguishes Freemasonry from all other fraternal organizations, it is our ritual and symbolic teachings. Surely there is nothing more important to the overall health and longevity of Kansas Lodges than to cultivate new generations of members. Our ritual is the only way to do this.

This year, we will continue with the “Open Format” of not assigning Lodges to preform specific parts of the ritual, as the feedback from the Lodges has been positive. Also, feedback from the craft has dictated that our “Break-out Sessions” this year will focus on; 1.) Balloting and 2.) By-Laws. Please make plans to attend at least one of the schools listed on the schedule.

A very important question comes up each year regarding District Schools of Instruction, worth exploring here.

Question:

performing quality Degree Work on their candidates. These Lodges

Are there specific requirements for either lodges or of-

are formally acknowledged at Grand Lodge Annual Communication.

ficers to attend District Schools of Instruction each year?

Plan now to attend your District School of Instruction. In fact, attend several and take several Brothers with you! With almost 30

Answer:

District Schools scheduled throughout the state, chances are there

Yes. Article XI-Section 3 of the Constitution and By-Law

are several within driving distance for most Brothers.

4-205 of the Grand Lodge of Kansas speak to this. While the by-laws do not specifically enumerate the number of members

Reference:

that must attend from each lodge, every year, Article XI-Section

Constitution Article XI – Section 3: Webb Work–The Work

3 clearly states, “Every Lodge shall procure the Work through

of the Three Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, including the

authorized Instructors and shall practice the same in all the cer-

Lectures appertaining thereto, is the Webb Work, as exemplified

emonies of conferring the several Degrees.” Further, By-Law 4-205

by the Board of Custodians before the Grand Lodge at its session

underscores that: “Every Degree conferred upon a candidate

in the City of Leavenworth in the month of October, in the year

who is seeking to attain membership in any Lodge in this

one thousand eight hundred sixty-seven; and such Work shall be

Grand Jurisdiction as the result of receiving the Degrees,

done in conformity with the authorized Floor Plans on file in the

shall be conferred in conformity to the authorized work of

archives of the Grand Lodge. Every Lodge shall procure this

this Grand Jurisdiction.” These two, combined, clearly set the

Work through authorized instructors, and shall practice

requirement for not only obtaining but also practicing the Degrees

the same in all the ceremonies of conferring the several

of Ancient Craft Masonry for every lodge.

Degrees. Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Secs. 3-601, 4-205.

4-205. Degree Teams--Conferral of Degrees – No Degree

Attendance is taken at all District Schools of Instruction and provi-

team may enter or leave this Grand Jurisdiction without the approv-

sions are made for Lodge Officers that need to attend other Dis-

al of the Grand Master: Provided, Lodge officers or a Degree Team

tricts for “make-up” attendance. This District School attendance is

of one Lodge may confer any Degree in another Kansas Lodge

analyzed and recorded in the Grand Lodge Archives. Lodges with

without consent. Every Degree conferred upon a candidate

chronic low or no Officer attendance will be reviewed and inquiries

who is seeking to attain membership in any Lodge in this

made to determine how they can maintain their Ritualistic Proficiency.

Grand Jurisdiction as the result of receiving the Degrees,

Conversely, many Lodges have attained many years & decades of

shall be conferred in conformity to the authorized work

Perfect Officer Attendance at their District Schools of Instruction as

of this Grand Jurisdiction. (Amended 1992) Cross-Reference:

a point of pride and show of their dedication in maintaining the art of

Constitution, Art. XI, Sec. 3.

8 THE KANSAS MASON

2016-2017 DISTRICT MEETING SCHEDULE (Combined districts are grouped and color coded) District Lodge

City

DDGM

Grand Lecturer Assigned

No. 1

Wathena No. 64

Wathena

Charles Baskins

Bob Talbott

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 2

Active No. 158

Atchison

Michael Kupsch

C. David Williams

9:00 AM

11/19/2016

No. 3

Wstgate No. 438

Kansas City

Don Matteson

John Crary/Vernon Clark

9:00 AM

10/22/2016

No. 4

Palmyra No. 23

Baldwin City

Raymond Gottstein

Vernon Clark

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 5

Rosedale No. 333

Overland Park

Galen Graves

Don Newman Jr.

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 6

Spring Hill No. 56

Spring Hill

James Burns III

Wayne Rector

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 7

Ottawa No. 18

Ottawa

Shawn M. Cardin

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/07/2017

No. 8

Ottawa No. 18

Ottawa

Lee Hermreck

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/07/2017

No. 10

Baxter No. 71

Baxter Springs

Troy Glasgow

C. David Williams

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 11

Parsons No. 117

Parsons

Mark Stapleton

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 12

Parsons No. 117

Parsons

Jacob C. Glover

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 9

Iola No. 38

Iola

William J. Reeder

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 13

Iola No. 38

Iola

John Lee Barker

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 24

Iola No. 38

Iola

Kyle Olson

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 14

Emporia No. 12

Emporia

Warren Hughes

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

10/22/2016

No. 23

Emporia No. 12

Emporia

Ricky D. LeShure

Don Newman, Jr.

9:00 AM

10/22/2016

No. 15

Topeka Scottish Rite

Topeka

Thomas Rigg

John Crary/Andy Cassity

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 16

Topeka Scottish Rite

Topeka

Dale L. Fritz

John Crary/Andy Cassity

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 18

Topeka Scottish Rite

Topeka

Dale L. Fritz

John Crary/Andy Cassity

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 19

Lafayette No. 16

Manhattan

Joseph A. Mitchell

Wayne Rector

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 20

Lafayette No. 16

Manhattan

Vincent Tracey

Wayne Rector

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 21

Thomas E. Jackson

Start Time Date Assigned

9:00 AM

No. 22

Clay Center No. 134

Clay Center

Randall W. Carlson

David Neal

9:00 AM

12/03/2016

No. 25

Winfield No. 110

Winfield

Craig P. Thompson

Dale Morrow/Bob Talbott

9:00 AM

02/18/2017

No. 26

Haysville No. 112

Haysville

Christopher Megonigle

Ron Detwiler

9:00 AM

02/18/2017

No. 27

Wichita No. 99

Wichita

Jerry C. McDaniel

Wayne Rector

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 28

Albert Pike No. 303

Wichita

Brendan M. Gelinas

David Neal

9:00 AM

01/28/2017

No. 29

North Star No. 158

Wichita

Danny L. Farlow

Dale Morrow/Bob Talbott

9:00 AM

02/11/2017

No. 30

Ninnescah No. 230

Kingman

Shawn K. Catlin

Dale Morrow/C. David

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 31

Sterling No. 171

Sterling

Gery D. Brown

Vernon Butt

9:00 AM

10/15/2016

No. 32

McPherson No. 172

McPherson

Robert D. McClarty

Andy Cassity/Ron Detwiler

9:00 AM

01/07/2017

No. 33

Belleville No. 129

Belleville

Mathew Mutz

Bob Talbott

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

No. 35

Paradise No. 290

Plainville

Matthew C. Whitney

Vernon Butt

9:00 AM

02/25/2017

No. 37*

Roger (Bucky) Moore

9:00 AM

No. 38

Emerald No. 289

Lakin

Richard E. Barnes

Vernon Butt

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 39

Emerald No. 289

Lakin

William N. Gamble

Vernon Butt

9:00 AM

01/21/2017

No. 40

St. Thomas No. 306

Colby

Jason C. Padgett

David Neal

9:00 AM

01/14/2017

FALL 2016 9

GRAND LODGE

By Michael Johnson II, ADGM

Opportunity knocks: Mentoring through Activity A simple, undeniable truth is present in

are part of something bigger than them-

I will unequivocally state that we must

our lodges and may be easily overlooked

selves and that they are making a positive

mentor our candidates and new Brothers to

or ignored. We mentor every person who

difference in the lives of others. Our distin-

become valuable tools who build a better

walks through the door of our lodges,

guished Brother PGM Benjamin Franklin is

future for their lodges and Kansas Masonry.

whether we realize it or not. More specifi-

attributed with saying, “Tell me and I forget,

In doing so, inactivity and complacency have

cally, if a lodge chooses not to be active

teach me and I may remember, involve me

no part in this plan, except as examples of

and simply labor through the motions, then

and I learn.” What do we want to teach the

how not to run a successful lodge. Rather,

the candidates and new Brothers learn that

next generation of Kansas Masons who walk

we can discuss any number of attributes

Freemasonry is not for them. However, if a

through our doors?

successful mentors possess and the tech-

lodge is active in its building and community,

niques used to employ proper instruction,

then those same Brothers instead learn they

but that will not be the focus here. Instead we will look at opportunities to mentor and teach our younger brethren that are not often verbally identified as a mentoring

10 THE KANSAS MASON

opportunity. Every time our lodges have an

tion was to fill a need by doing the right

event, such as a dinner, a fundraiser, an em-

thing. Members who have been around the

blem presentation or anything that involves

block a time or two ran the show and new

getting together for a common purpose or

Brothers came to help, although realistically

goal, it provides the chance to show our

not knowing how they would assist. What

new Brothers how to act like Freemasons.

they received was instruction on how to put

That is a novel concept I challenge every

together a concession stand, serve food, in-

lodge to consider.

teract with the public as a Mason and most

Perhaps the simplest method to under-

importantly, how to be an integral part of

stand this is to consider just a single event,

the local lodge. There were some newer

a fundraiser for a local charity or need.

Brothers who even independently men-

Before starting, the predominant goal that

tioned that the fellowship was the best part

ing feeling. Depending on our candidates’

needs to be conveyed is that this event

of that day, and the best part of their short

and new members’ interests, they should

will be successful and display our masonic

masonic travels, thus far. Those aspects of

be assigned a task they are interested in and

values. To do so, every member will have

our Fraternity aren’t necessarily taught in a

that is under the watchful eye of a seasoned

a part in the event’s success, from the

lodge room, are they?

member. They will learn to complete tasks

youngest Entered Apprentice to the most

There is nothing that pulls a lodge to-

and how those individual tasks mesh to

seasoned Master Mason. On the surface it

gether like a common goal, and that is what

make the whole event successful. In ad-

is easy to become engrossed in the details;

the above example is. In The Elements of

dition, this also expands the network for

i.e. the food, a venue, the publicity, commu-

Mentoring by W. Brad Johnson and Charles

nication, logistics of equipment, attendance

R. Ridley, there is discussion of establishing

numbers and so forth. With all these details

ambitious, manageable goals, and how that

swirling around on the wind, our younger

process goes a long way in mentoring mem-

members will be easily swayed, so stay on

bers. Assign tasks at an event. All the details

point with the ultimate goal. Recently, a

mentioned previously can derail events?

lodge operated a concession stand for the

Assigning tasks will offset that overwhelm-

continued on page 12

estate auction of one of our past Brothers.

While there was mention of making some money for local charity, the primary motiva-

FALL 2016 11

GRAND LODGE

Opportunity Knocks

these Brothers by putting them in a position

and show the young members how to

and nurture that all-important relationship

of getting to know other lodge members.

interact and field questions about Masonry.

between Brother Masons.

It is difficult to find time to have discussions

Teach them to have the right answer and, if

with all Brothers in the lodge, especially

they stumble at times, offer assistance and

Particularly important after the event is to take time to discuss where improvements can be made. While this activity

A method exists behind everything we do for these events; let’s take the time to show the new Brothers that method behind the madness….

is not entirely for the newer members, it can be a valuable learning experience for them. Be sure to include these members so their voices are heard in this conversation.

It will go a long way toward establishing

when some of them do not attend regularly.

insight. It doesn’t take long at a fundraiser.

confidence if these young members have

But many seem to always show up to help

Usually waves of people show up and

an active part in a discussion with all the

with events. This is a fantastic opportunity

there isn’t much time to think, just to react.

seasoned members. They may even make

that mentors should utilize to help our

Consequently, much of the instruction for

worthwhile suggestions that will be incor-

young members grow.

the new member occurs before the event,

porated into the next fundraiser. Going

during the planning and set up. At this point

one step further, utilize this as one of our

public is a tremendously important aspect

we are able to talk about what to wear

metrics for success in mentoring our young

of growing in the Craft. In nearly all cases,

and how to set up that particular part of

Brothers. Are they engaged in this conversa-

the first time a new member represents his

the fundraiser. Perhaps it is the logistics of

tion? Do they seem energized and excited

lodge in public is at an event. There is likely

gathering tables and chairs, or of making

about what just occurred? If so, I will ven-

apprehension, uncertainty and even ner-

sure the correct amount of food and drinks

ture to suggest that we are on the right path

vousness associated with this new Brother’s

are purchased. A method exists behind

and the future looks bright.

initiation into the public realm of Masonry.

everything we do for these events; let’s take

Mentors, as well as seasoned members,

the time to show the new Brothers that

should recognize this and put them at ease.

method behind the madness…. all the while

Take the lead in discussions and questions,

showing them how to share in fellowship

Learning to be a Brother Mason in

Brothers, we must make everything we do a teachable moment for those around us.

150TH YEAR REDEDICATION OF THE KANSAS STATE CAPITOL CORNERSTONE

For a donation of $50 (plus $8.95 S & H) to

Freemasons Endowment (Brothers Helping Brothers) you will receive this historic 10” x 20”print.

SEND REMITTANCE TO

Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.

All donations will receive “C” Club Giving Credit and are tax deductible.

12 THE KANSAS MASON

GRAND LODGE

By Adam R. Richardson, Hancock Lodge No. 311

Millennial

Masons

CORNERSTONES OF THE FUTURE TEMPLE

Millennials refers to the group of 20- to 30- somethings that the media paints as jobless, living at home with their parents and that seemingly always want everything handed to them.

This is the future of the lodge since millennials have surpassed the baby boomers as the largest population group within the United States.

Fear not, this large group also possesses

that millennials are irreligious;

many talents and gifts, and they want to join.

many still believe in a Supreme

They just don’t understand “2B1ASK1”

Being and heaven. Masonry’s

because it isn’t a link they can click on their

doors are wide open for such

smart phones. Millennials are tech-savvy giv-

men seeking light.

ers who are in search of a brand for their life.

Millennials are also givers.

Millennials are now the largest portion

Millennials view helping others

of the U.S. population. Many are also less

as an important aspect of giv-

religious then most Americans. While on

ing back to their communities.

the surface this news may seem to clash

In a recent survey, 84 percent of millennials

the 2B1ASK1 mentioned earlier? Well, as

with traditional Masonic values, that is not

made charitable donations in 2014.2 They

emoji’s have taken over as some form of

exactly the case. The baby boomers who

donate and want to give back. Despite the

cryptic communication, the old Masonic

raised Millennials stressed the importance

media’s portrayal of millennials as lazy kids

moniker has fallen into a bit of obscurity.

of acceptance for all and finding one’s own

who live in their parent’s houses, they want

Millennials don’t play by the traditional rules;

QR code is on back of the business card redirects to the Grand Lodge Website website when scanned with a smart phone

tell them Masonry is a secret society, that

BRANDING IS IMPORTANT. While I love the

will just make them even more curious about

history of freemasonry and the image of the square and compass, Lodges should strive to create their own “brand.”

joining. Challenge them. Based on personal experience, when a millennial friend saw my Masonic ring, he asked if Masons were still

moral compass. Millennials are introspective

to help society. An interesting note of the

“a thing.” It was astonishing to discover he

and open to new ideas and precepts when

same article revealed that Millennials tended

had no clue about George Washington and

it comes to religion.1 They distrust the rigid

to donate via text message and were influ-

the rich history of Freemasonry in America.

obedience of traditional religion because of

enced on where to donate by their peers.

Millennials enjoy history and if they only

prejudice and scandal. This does not mean

Speaking of social media, remember

continued on page 14

FALL 2016 13

GRAND LODGE Millennials knew of Freemasonry’s inclusiveness and tolerance, we could open up our potential pool of candidates exponentially.

Chris Hodapp’s blog, Freemasonry for

MILLENNIALS BRING A MULTITUDE OF SKILLS to a Lodge and are seeking light, but they have not quite found Masonry yet.

Dummies, recently posted an article3 about code is on something they will snatch it up.

baby boomers and retirement explaining

the square and compass, Lodges should

how retirees could play into a new wave of

strive to create their own “brand.” There

candidates for the Craft. In summary, the

are many online and traditional sources that

new generation of Masons. They want to be

article says baby boomers miss their friends

can assist lodges with branding. Creating an

a part of the lodge. Task them with input-

and camaraderie the most while they are

image for your Lodge is important. Social

ting lodge information into MasonicFinder.

retired. Herein is the key: two of the largest

media and networking have taken off within

com. This website, recently opened by the

population demographics in America are

the last five years and having a professional

brothers who run the weekly video blog

coming together for the perfect storm, po-

company design t-shirts, business cards or

“The Masonic Roundtable” on YouTube,

tentially resulting in a Masonic renaissance.

posters is important. Get the lodge name

lets you post information about your Lodge

Lodges can be saved and even expand with

out there whenever you can. Stacks of

for meeting times and dates. As of June, the

the pool of people that are looking for light.

business cards can be left at a coffee shop,

website has been up for about a month and

We have to let them know we are here.

which is a veritable beehive of activity for

already has information from three conti-

millennials. A simple card with a square and

nents. Ask your millennials what resonates

compass with a line about finding light can

with them and use it to spread the word

Branding is important. While I love the history of freemasonry and the image of

have the same dramatic effect as

Past Masters, don’t be afraid of your

about our Craft.

Millennials bring a multitude of skills

a laminated card with a colorful theme as long as a QR code is on

to a Lodge and are seeking light, but they

back, which redirects them to a

have not quite found Masonry yet. Masons

lodge website when scanned with

who have been a part of the Craft for many

a smart phone. Millennials won’t

years are also important, millennials want

bother calling a lodge, but if a QR

and need your leadership and wisdom.

Bro. Adam Richardson is a millennial and recent dual member of Hancock Lodge 311 of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Bro.

New members can find your Lodge information at MasonicFinder.com

Adam was raised in Alt Heidelberg Fidelitas 821 of the American Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany in 2006. Bro. Richardson

The Masonic Roundtable lets you post information about your Lodge for meeting times and dates

was the orator of his recent AASR class and is a contributor of the online blog “Midnight Freemasons.”

1 http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/01/08/qa-why-millennials-are-less-religious-than-older-americans/ 2 https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/06/24/millennials-are-actually-more-generous-than-anybody-realizes/ 3 http://freemasonsfordummies.blogspot.com/2016/05/baby-boom-retirees-and-freemasonry.html

14 THE KANSAS MASON

FEATURE ARTICLE

. Cole Presley, y, Deputy p y Grand Master

By MW Larry S. Coleman, Jr., Grand Master Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas and its Jurisdiction

The Roots of Today’s Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas Were Born in England in Late 1700s Black Freemasonry began when Prince Hall and 14 other free Black men were initiated in Masonry through Warrant No. 459.

A Permit was issued for these Masons to meet as African Lodge No.1, and they became the first Black Masons in the United States.

the Jurisdiction of Ohio until 1875, when a proper convention was called, the three Lodges met in the City of Lawrence to organize and establish the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas, A.F. & A.M. (It was later changed to F.&A.M.) On March 7-9,1875, a call issued by DDGM David G. Lett for the District of the state of Kansas, commissioned by the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, to all Master Masons in good standing, inviting them to

As the years passed, Prince Hall decided

vault in a downtown Boston bank.

meet in the City of Lawrence on March 7,

The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Mas-

1875, for the purpose of considering the

ended in 1783. On March 2, 1784, he wrote

sachusetts became the Mother Grand Lodge

propriety of organizing a Grand Lodge of

a letter to William Moody, Worshipful

for the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Penn-

Free and Accepted Masons in and for the

Master of Brotherly Love Lodge No.55 in

sylvania. The Grand Lodge chartered three

State of Kansas, and to take steps neces-

London, England, stating that African Lodge

Lodges in the state of Ohio, which led to the

sary to the organization, with the following

had been in operation for eight years and

formation of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of

named Lodges in attendance:

they had only “a Permit to walk on St. John’s

Ohio. The door of legitimate Masonry was

Western Star Lodge No. 34, of Lawrence,

Day and to bury their dead in manner and

opened to the dwellers on the hills and in

Euclid Lodge No. 39, of Topeka and

to approach England again, after the war

form.” He thought it “best to send to the Fountains from whence he received the Light for a Warrant.” The Charter, though, was prepared but not sent. Three years had passed and the cost for the Charter was not received in London. It seems Prince Hall had sent the payment but it had not been delivered.

Finally, he was careful in selecting his

THE DOOR OF LEGITIMATE MASONRY WAS OPENED TO THE DWELLERS ON THE HILLS AND IN THE DALES OF KANSAS BY THE PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE OF OHIO the dales of Kansas by the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, (John Jones was the Most

Mount Olive Lodge No. 19, of Leavenworth.

The meeting was convened in the Lodge

messengers and asked Capt. James Scott,

Worshipful Grand Master of Ohio) during

room of Western Star Lodge No. 34 and

brother-in-law of Governor John Hancock

the organizing and Chartering of Western

was organized by electing Right Worshipful

of Massachusetts. Capt. Scott delivered

Lodge No. 34 at Lawrence, Kan., in 1865,

Lett, as chairman, and H.H. White and C.H.

the letter, the payment and received the

with David G. Lett serving as its Worshipful

Langston as secretaries. The object of the

Charter and delivered it to Prince Hall. This

Master. Soon followed by Euclid Lodge No.

meeting was specified before the attendees

Charter No. 459 today is in the possession

39 in Topeka, Kan., and Mount Oliver Lodge

by the Chairman in a short address to the

of African Lodge of Massachusetts and

(later changed to Mount Olive Lodge No. 19

entire Convention; at the close of the ad-

has been made secure between two heavy

in Leavenworth, Kan.).

dress, the Convention was declared to be

plates of glass and is kept in a fire-proof

These three Lodges remained under

continued on page 50

FALL 2016 15

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016 6 p.m. –

GRAND LODGE TABLE LODGE

Freemasonry and the Table Lodge Meet, Eat, Drink and Be Merry. Our Most Worshipful Grand Lodge promises an evening of fun and fellowship.

LADIES EVENT FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016 6-9:30 p.m. –

DINNER & SHOW

(Topeka Civic Theater)

DEATH TRAP

A Chilling Mystery by Ira Levin

Produced through special arrangement with Dramatist Play Service

STORY: Seemingly comfortably ensconced in his charming Connecticut home, Sidney Bruhl, a successful writer of Broadway thrillers, is struggling to overcome a dry spell which has resulted in a string of failures and a shortage of funds.

A possible break in his fortunes occurs when he receives a script from a student in the seminar he has been conducting at a nearby college—a thriller which Sidney recognizes immediately as a potential Broadway hit. Sidney's plan, which he devises with his wife's help, is to offer collaboration to the student, an idea which the younger man quickly accepts.

Thereafter suspense mounts steadily as the plot begins to twist and turn with devilish cleverness, and with such an abundance of thrills and laughter, that audiences will be held enthralled until the final, startling moments of the play.

R E D R O E PR hile registering $ online w

ved 45 Days In Must Be Recei er rd O ePr t ship Academy Shir ivery at Leader el D ee nt ra ua Advance to G

REGISTER ONLINE

35

www.kansasmason.org/news-and-events/event-registrations/

NOVEMBER 4 & 5, 2016

Leadership Academy Pricing Pricing includes dinner on Friday night and lunch on Saturday for you and your spouse

Friday & Saturday

Saturday Only

$70 $35

Attendees Will Receive

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2016 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. – KANSAS FREEMASONS

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY LIST OF COURSES Master Mason’s Education Track • From When We Came - History of the GLKS - Herb Merrick, DSM • Understanding the Prince Hall Assembly - Antonio Allen, Grand Secretary • Committees of Investigation - Antonio Allen, Les Allison, ADGM • Worshipful Master’s Assistant - Michael Halleran, PGM • Mentoring Candidates and Beyond - Michael Johnson, ADGM • Traditional Observance and Affinity Lodges - Steve Humes, Michael Kupsch, DDGM Lodge Officer’s Training Track • The Master and His Gavel - Bob Talbott, GSW • Lodge Officers Manual - Vic Henke ADGM, Mark Stephenson ADGM • Lodge Committees, Making them Work - Mikel Stoops, GJS, DSM • Mentoring Program Management - Michael Johnson, ADGM • Planning for Special Events - Jason Gibson, ADGM, GSB • Fulfilling our Obligation, Beyond the Program - Tony Borum, GSD, GMOM

Pre-order your

Leadership Academy embroidered polo shirt Pick-up when you arrive Available in — S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

Commemorative Table Lodge Toasting Cannon (Friday Night Attendees Only)

Macoy’s Modern Worshipful Master’s Assistant Book, Edited by Michael A. Halleran, PGM, ($30 Value)

Hotel Information Reservations may be made by calling 785-431-7200.

Capitol Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, 1717 SW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS Please Mention You Are Part of Grand Lodge—Leadership Meeting (Group Code LM16) to reserve your room for $74 double with up to two breakfasts (+ tax).

FEATURE ARTICLE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Grand Lodge and Prince Hall:

Growing Stronger Together Growing and creating stronger connections

The first meeting, which Sowder remem-

between the Grand Lodge of Kansas A. F.

bered was “cordial,” between the two was

& A. M. and Prince Hall Grand Lodge F. &

held in June 1997 at a Topeka hotel.

A. M. to further Masonry in the state began in October 1996. Jeffrey L. Sowder, PGM,

“Roy Althouse, Grand Master of Prince Hall, and I became immediate friends,”

Prince Hall Grand Lodge passed it in June the same year.

The almost lyrical wording of the compact set the foundation for a relationship that has grown and prospered both Grand Juris-

was working to solidify the

dictions, as it has grown and prospered

committee chairmen on the

and deepened relationships throughout

Grand Lodge committees

the state.

“In order to establish, and implement,

during his year as Grand Master. He approached

fill and complete Masonic recognition;

Forest Haggard, PGM about

to provide for successful coexistence; to

serving as chairman of the

insure a continuing harmonious relation-

Foreign Relations committee,

ship; to promote Masonry in general,”

a position Haggard had held

the preamble reads.

At the Grand Lodge of

for several years.

Haggard demurred, indi-

Kansas proceedings where the

cating someone else should

compact was ratified, Haggard

have the opportunity, but

addressed the challenge the

Sowder shared the early ideas

Lodges faced to reach the stage of signing a compact:

that would eventually create a compact be-

Sowder said. “Great dialogue was exchanged

tween the Grand Lodge and Prince Hall. He

and it was a most cordial start for recogni-

wanted Forrest to help him open relations

tion to be established. Grand Chaplain Allen

slow process. Slow because not all of

with Prince Hall.

Hurlburt was given the task to compose ‘The

our members think the same. Racial

Prince Hall Compact’ on our behalf and a

prejudice is a highly emotional charged

meeting later in the year was scheduled that

feeling. In 1994, I had one of our good

Prince Hall Grand Lodge was to host.”

Brothers say to me, “Haggard, you

At that, Haggard shared an enthusiastic “yes,” and returned to the chairman position.

“I knew Forrest had a good friend who was also a pastor of a Kansas City church

At the next meeting, the Prince Hall

“This has been a lengthy and

b-----d, do you really believe that a

and who was a PGM of Prince Hall – Lem-

Compact was reviewed and signed by all

n----r can think well enough to be a

uel Wynn,” Sowder recalled. “Forrest and I

Grand Lodge Officers of both Grand Jurisdic-

Mason?’ That man made many errors in

started working on the

tions and legislation was drafted to officially

that statement. He is a Past Master and

first meeting of the two respective GL

recognize Prince Hall Grand Lodge. The

a member of an honorable and active

officers in early 1997.”

Grand Lodge passed it in March 1998, and

family in our Fraternity. But he failed a

18 THE KANSAS MASON

basic test of both intelligence and Freemasonry! We needed to take the time to edu-

THING TO DO.” Freemasonry continued to make strides

bership in Woodson Lodge 121, becoming the first PH Mason in Kansas to have a dual

cate and teach both morality and ethics, as

forward. Sowder said in 1999, legisla-

membership in a Kansas AF & AM Lodge,

well as basic human understandings. We have

tion passed to allow for dual membership

Sowder said, adding that he was presented

not been hurried nor pushy but now the time

between the Lodges, and also that year, the

with a membership in PH Kaw Blue Lodge.

has come to do this Compact. The members

first joint public ceremony with the A. F. &

“As President of the Kansas Masonic

of this Grand Jurisdiction have been very vo-

A.M. and the F. & A.M. was held in Yates

cal in their desire to recognize our Brothers

Center to rededicate the Woodson County

of Prince Hall Affiliation.”

Courthouse with a

He ended with the words, “It is a situation that is recognized by the Commission on Information of the Conference of

Foundation, I had the honor to nominate continued on page 20

public parade and ample ceremony.

Roy Althouse

Grand Masters and is legal and proper. More

was presented an

important it is the RIGHT AND MASONIC

endowed life mem-

FALL 2016 19

FEATURE ARTICLE

Kellerman said there were few changes

to the board Roy Althouse – a position he

come accustomed by traveling to the Annual

held for many years,” he said. “He was a

Communications of many of our sister juris-

in the Lodge’s relationship during his tenure,

wonderful person who truly understood all

dictions. The similarities, however, were what

but he complimented the work done by

aspects of Freemasonry and seldom missed

intrigued me,” he said. “Our top similarities

Reichert during his term. “As I understand

a Kansas AF & AM Grand Lodge session

are the seriousness with which we approach

it, there had routinely been one or two

until his death.”

the challenges of quality experiences for our

meetings a year with the officers of the two

brethren, the fidelity with which we hand

Grand Lodges,” he said. “Rick worked hard

prevailed and many good things have hap-

down our ritual to succeeding generations,

to flesh out an agenda that contained ‘real’

pened,” Sowder added. “I would like recog-

and the concern for the long-term viability

items that would benefit both Grand Lodges,

nition to be given to the 1997 COA – DGM

of our respective jurisdictions. Our periodic

which included the unabashed sharing of

T. Michael Fegan, GSW John Mowen, GJW

cross-jurisdictional meetings of Grand Lodge

information and resources, something that

Stan Browning, and GSD Mark Nelson for

Officers allowed for frank and open dialogue

had never been done before, from the way I

their great support of this effort.”

that confirmed our mutual challenges.

understood it. The two Grand Lodges would

We recognized that working together and

put personnel together so that each Grand

sonry’s forward thinking leaders bravely

sharing would benefit us all. We had a lot to

Lodge could essentially build off of what was

made such a significant effort to reach out

learn from each other. Each had strengths

working for the other, we could share our

to each other, the impact of the Prince

and gaps that complemented the other.

successes and failures without embarrass-

Hall Compact has been felt throughout the

We resolved to take advantage of what each

ment, things like that.”

Grand Lodge.

had to offer the other.”

“Since that time great relations have

Since that historic time, when Freema-

Michael Halleran, Grand Master of Ma-

It was a view reiterated by Daren

Growth in the way the two Lodges interact and support each other will continue.

sons in Kansas from 2014-15, appreciated

Kellerman, Grand Master of Masons in

Kellerman pointed to this year’s Leadership

the relationship of the two Grand Jurisdic-

Kansas from 2015-16.

Academy, where for the first time, Prince

tions during his service as Grand Master.

“We are very fortunate in Kansas Free-

“I have long heard the Grand Masters of both Grand Lodges speak proudly of the

Hall Brothers will put on several breakout sessions.

“They aren’t ‘guest speakers,’ these are

masonry to have warm relations between

working relationship we have in Kansas and

both Grand Jurisdictions, which is not the

how unfortunate it is that it hasn’t happened

Kansas Freemasons putting on educational

case in some states,” he said. “In the early

throughout all America,” he said. “In the past

topics so that all Masons have the opportu-

1990s, we came together and put aside

we have done several joint dedications and

nity to better themselves,” he said. “That’s

any differences that might have existed,

had joint executive meetings, but we don’t

what we do. Become More.”

recognized and celebrated our dual Grand

necessarily focus on those things as each

Reichert added, “One thing for sure:

Jurisdictions, and moved forward making fast

Grand Lodge has its own set of priorities,

While we may be differentiated by names,

friendships that without our mystic tie would

the same as businesses do. The difference

separate jurisdictional leadership structures,

perhaps have never been made.”

between us and businesses is that we don’t

and heritage; we are a sacred band of

want anybody going out of business and

friends and more especially brothers who in

PGM, served as Grand Master of Masons

nobody is ‘the competition,’ quite the op-

a few short years of working together

in Kansas from 2013-14, one of his favorite

posite actually. Many people don’t under-

never looked more harmonious or set

duties was attending the Annual Community

stand the beautiful history of the Prince Hall

a higher example of what our fraternity

of Grand Lodge of Prince Hall Masons in

Freemasonry. While ‘we’ (A.F. & A.M.) have

means than the joint event at the State-

Kansas and Affiliate Territories. He noted the

a very good history, I might suggest that our

house in March of this year. Anyone

similarities between the two Lodges.

Prince Hall Brothers have a more unimpaired

standing among that group photo that day

historical lineage.”

was in the best company ever.”

When Frederick (Rick) W. Reichert,

“I saw the usual differences that I had be-

20 THE KANSAS MASON

FALL 2016 21

FEATURE ARTICLE

By David W. Hendricks, Kansas Masonic Foundation Director of Development & Programs

FIRST KANSAS AF&AM SERVING AS PRINCE HALL LODGE WORSHIPFUL MASTER Since April 4th , 1994 when I knelt at the

No. 14, held meetings in the musty basement

terms of years in masonry, and they did not

altar of Freemasonry, I have been in search

of the local AME Church. It was approxi-

have many members at that time. I often

of “further light in Masonry.” I admit dur-

mately one year after our initial meeting that

found myself sitting in the Senior Warden’s

ing the first years after being Raised to the

I suggested to my home Lodge that we reach

station, struggling with the differences

Sublime Degree of a Master Mason that I

out to St. John Lodge and allow them to hold

between the two rituals. In 2008, Brother

did not fully understand how to find “more

their meetings in our building. After all, we

Roger Brooks asked me if I would con-

light” in Masonry, or even what that meant.

were only using it six times a month. The

sider joining St. John Lodge. I was honored

It wasn’t until about three years later, after I

lodge quickly accepted that suggestion and

and humbled and, after thinking about it

was installed as the Worshipful Master, that I

voted to do just that. In 2003, during one of

long and hard, I submitted my petition and

really understood “light” was knowledge and

our stated meetings, we hosted the members

shortly thereafter was elected to member-

every man and Mason should seek light on a

of St. John Lodge at our meeting and we

ship. After all I was in search of “further

daily basis, whether in Life or in Masonry.

presented them with keys to the building.

light.” Immediately I was elected the Senior Warden of the lodge, a station I never held

This particular appointment came at a not so good time in my life.

However, it was just what I needed to help get me through that difficult period.

in my mother lodge on my way to the East.

I began to research Prince Hall, the man, and provided Masonic education to the new Brothers. In August of 2010, during the District Deputy Grand Master’s official visit to St John Lodge, we learned that our

That first joint meeting was the start of

Worshipful Master’s membership had been

Lodge, the lodge had just voted to make a

what has been a great relationship between

suspended for non-payment of dues and

donation to a young man who been selected

the two Lodges. Both lodges have worked

as a Senior Warden I would be installed as

as an ambassador of music with the oppor-

together and collaborated on many events,

Worshipful Master. This particular appoint-

tunity to travel to Europe for two weeks.

to include putting on the CHIPS program,

ment came at a not so good time in my

I took the check to his home to present it

creating a float for the Christmas parade and

life. However, it was just what I needed to

to him, and I learned his father is a Prince

just enjoying each other’s company as Broth-

help get me through that difficult period.

Hall Mason and the current Master of his

ers in Masonry. Emporia Lodge has even

At the time I assumed the East, St. John

lodge. We spent over an hour talking about

assisted St. John Lodge with the conferring

Lodge was not in a very good place; they

masonry, about the differences and simi-

of degrees, with permission from the Prince

owed a considerable amount of money to

larities between our Lodges and our love

Hall Grand Master.

Grand Lodge and, because of that, they had

Fast forward to 2001, at the Emporia

for the fraternity. He invited me to attend

Shortly after St. John Lodge began hold-

not attended the Annual Communication

“The Lodge of Sorrow,” which is not only

ing their meanings at the Emporia Lodge

of the Grand Lodge in over three years. In

the Prince Hall Necrology Service, but the

building, I began to regularly attend and

addition, there were no set meeting days

traditional opening of the PHGL of Kansas.

almost immediately I was asked to fill a

and times, and the lodge met whenever the

He also informed me that his lodge, St. John

chair. St. John Lodge was very young, in

most members could attend. Also, the an-

22 THE KANSAS MASON

nual dues barely covered the Grand Lodge

tions not only in our community but in our

transition to the East as smooth as it possibly

per capita tax. Immediately after assuming

state. In December 2013, with the lodge in

could have been. I am personally thankful

the East, we established a plan to get back

much better shape than when I took over,

to Most Worshipful Jeff Sowder, who had

in the good graces of Grand Lodge so we

I stepped down as the Master of St. John

the courage and wisdom to reach out to the

would be allowed to attend the annual

Lodge. I am very proud of the many things

Prince Hall Grand Lodge and to make it a pri-

communication. This plan not only included

we accomplished during my three years as

ority to ratify the compact that would allow

establishing a specific meeting night but

the Worshipful Master.

each Grand Lodge to recognize the other

included a community service project. It

After doing a little research, I discovered I

and to allow us to begin Masonic intercourse

was also necessary that we look at our dues structure and the need to increase them to cover our per capita tax and to become active in our community. I’m pleased to say that by February 2011, we had paid all mon-

I discovered I am the first Kansas AF & AM Mason to serve as the worshipful master of a Prince Hall Lodge in the state of Kansas.

ies owed to Grand Lodge and for the first time in many years had a delegation at the

am the first Kansas AF & AM Mason to serve

with our Brethren. If it wasn’t for his desire

annual communication. We set our meeting

as the Worshipful Master of a Prince Hall

and understanding of the importance of this

nights as the second and fourth Tuesdays

Lodge in the state of Kansas. This is an honor

compact and that it was time to recognize

and sent a summons to all members to

that I hold most high. My Prince Hall Broth-

the Prince Hall Grand Lodge as our Broth-

attend. We raised our dues from $75 a

ers accepted me, at both the local and Grand

ers, I would not have been afforded this op-

year to $120 a year, and immediately began

Lodge level, with open arms and assisted

portunity. I often thought how strange it was

providing charitable donations to organiza-

me in every way possible which made my

continued on page 51

FALL 2016 23

LODGE OF RESEARCH

By Herb F. Merrick, Jr., DSM, Past Master Handcock Lodge No. 311 & KMF Trustee

Enabling The Masonic Explorer In All Of Us. Kansas Lodge of Research was established in 1982 to conduct research, gather and preserve Masonic information, supply speakers, and enhance Grand Lodge endeavors to promote Masonic Education. In this article Bro. Herb Merrick explores the background of the first master of his lodge and reveals the high ‘caliber’ of an Army artillery officer who received the military’s most prestigious combat decoration. Perhaps your lodge has had brothers with extraordinary accomplishments.

Submit your findings to klor@kansasmason.org or see our web page at kansasmason.org.

Finding Him Worthy A Kansas Mason’s Courage THE MORNING OF MAY 16, 1868, THE TENSION IN THE SENATE CHAMBER WAS ELECTRIC. THIS WAS THE DAY THAT THE FATE OF ANDREW JOHNSON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, WOULD BE SEALED ONE WAY OR THE OTHER.

N

ot one of the actors in that high scene

listened for the crack of doom.

pleting his apprenticeship, he moved to

was sure in his own mind how one

And the answer came, full,

Milwaukee, Wis., and joined his brother

senator was going to vote, except, perhaps,

distinct, definite, unhesitating

in the newspaper business. He met and

Edmund Gibson Ross himself. Everyone

and unmistakable. The words

married his wife, Fanny, in 1848, with Edmund Gibson Ross

whom he had eight children. In 1849, he

knew five other Republicans and all the

‘Not Guilty’ swept over the

Democrats were voting not guilty.

assembly. Johnson survived by

became connected with the Milwaukee

a vote of 35-19, one shy of the

Daily Sentinel and then the Milwaukee

voice of Chief Justice Chase boomed

two-thirds needed to convict

Free Democrat, as well as becoming

through silence. “Is the respondent,

and would remain in office, but

involved in the anti-slavery movement.

Andrew Johnson, guilty or not guilty of

what price would the junior

a high misdemeanor as charged in this ar-

senator from Kansas pay?

“Mr. Senator Ross, how say you?” the

ticle?” The representatives of the people of

Andrew Johnson

So who was this Kansas Mason? Edmund

In fact, in 1854, he is noted for having joined a rally that helped to release captured escaping slaves. His involvement in

the United States watched every movement

Gibson Ross, born in Ashland, Ohio, Dec.

the abolitionist movement encouraged him

of his features. The whole audience listened

7, 1826. He apprenticed as a printer in

to move to Topeka, Kan., in 1856, where he

for the coming answer as it would have

Sandusky, Ohio, at the age of 11; after com-

became a leader of the ‘free state’ move-

24 THE KANSAS MASON

ment. He also published the Topeka Tribune

Westport. He also was mentioned in most

when Kansas Sen. James Lane succumbed to

from 1856-1858, going on to establish the

of the other major battles fought by the 11th

the pressures of the office and committed

Kansas State Record in 1859. He served as a

in eastern Kansas and western Missouri.

suicide by shooting himself in the head. The

member of the State constitutional con-

He mustered out as major in 1865 and was

governor needed to appoint a replacement

vention, sometimes called the Wyandotte

recognized as a hero within the unit and as a

for the always unpredictable Lane, who had

Constitutional Convention, and from 1859 to

gallant officer by others.

begun to leave the radical Republicans and

1861, he was the promoter and director of

Ross returned home to be the editor of

vote more with the President Johnson. It was

the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway. He

the Kansas Tribune from 1865-1866. It was

embarrassing for Crawford and his young

recommended the name of the company.

during this time that he became a member

state that found itself right smack in the

of Topeka Lodge No. 17 along with many

middle of post-war Reconstruction turmoil.

As Civil War came, Ross entered the Union Army as a private in 1862. Elected

other veterans of the war. Kansas

It was important for Crawford to pick

Captain of E Company, 11th Kansas Cav-

Gov. Samuel Crawford was Ross’s

someone who could be an ally with the

alry, he was repeatedly recognized for his

commanding officer during the

other Kansas senator, Samuel Pome-

leadership and bravery. He had two horses

war. In the summer of 1866,

roy, in opposing Johnson and keeping

shot out from under him during the Battle of

Ross’s life took a significant turn

Samuel C. Pomeroy

Kansas in favor with the Republicans.

FALL 2016 25

LODGE OF RESEARCH Finding Him Worthy Gov. Crawford thought he had his man in Edmund Ross, a young up-and-comer in the party and a war hero. Crawford appointed Ross to Lane’s vacant Senate seat in July 1866, despite the fact Ross had no actual political experience. At first, it looked as if Crawford was a genius. Upon his arrival in Washington, Ross quickly denounced President Johnson on the Senate floor and for the next two years voted against the President and with the party every chance he could. Then came the impeachment trial

Loose Park KCK site of Battle of Westport

of President Andrew Johnson, who was being impeached for violating the Tenure of

licans would meet and poll their members.

Office Act, which prevented the president

The straw poll revealed that six Republican

from firing officials without the consent of

Senators were planning on voting with the

congress. Johnson had ordered the replace-

Democrats to acquit the President. Ross,

money! How much does the damned scoun-

ment of Generals Philip Sheridan and Daniel

however, would not participate in the polls.

drel want?”

Sickle, and also asked for the resignation of

In fact, he remained silent through much of

Secretary of War William Stanton.

the trial, claiming to be undecided.

The night before the Senate was to take its first vote for the conviction or acquittal

This so unnerved the Radical Leader-

of Johnson, Ross received a telegram from

months and, for the most part, was just a

ship that they sent an open telegram to the

home, “Kansas has heard the evidence and

lot of political grandstanding and pontifica-

people of Kansas: “Great danger to the

demands the conviction of the President.

tion – plus a lot of deal-making on all sides.

peace of the country and the Republican

Signed D.R. Anthony and 1,000 others.”

Even though he opposed Johnson and disap-

cause if impeachment fails. Send to your

The next morning, Ross replied, “To D.R.

proved of the removal of Stanton, Ross

Senators public opinion by resolutions,

Anthony and 1,000 others: I do not recog-

The trial would stretch for almost three

nize your right to demand that I vote either

Ross spent much of the rest of his life justifying his vote on the Johnson impeachment. He wrote articles and a book in the 1890’s claiming his vote, despite being political suicide, was an act of courage done to save the nation from the Radical Republicans

for or against conviction. I have taken an oath to do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws, and trust that I shall have the courage to vote according to the dictates of my judgment and for the highest good of the country. Signed E.G. Ross.”

Ross knew the ramifications of his ac-

wanted Johnson to have a fair trial. Before

letters, and delegations.” A member of the

the trial started, he said to another senator,

Kansas legislature called upon Ross at the

tion. The next day he sent a letter to his

“The thing is here, and so far as I am con-

Capitol. Ross’ brother even received a bribe

wife, “Millions of men cursing me today

cerned, though a Republican and opposed

offer just for the revelation of the Senator’s

will bless me tomorrow for having saved

to Mr. Johnson and his policy, he shall have

intentions. Benjamin Butler, who was one of

the country from the greatest peril through

as fair a trial as an accused man ever had on

the Republican prosecutors, was frustrated

which it has ever passed, though none but

this earth.” Throughout the trial, the Repub-

by Ross’s silence: “There is a bushel of

God can ever know the struggle it had cost

26 THE KANSAS MASON

me.” Later in life he would reflect: “I almost

Ross would finish his

Westport or Battle of Brush Creek from Missouri capitol

literally looked down into my open grave.

term alone in Wash-

Friendships, position, fortune, everything

ington, ostracized by

that makes life desirable to an ambitious

his colleagues in the

man were about to be swept away by the

Senate. He was subject

breath of my mouth, perhaps forever. It

to verbal attacks as

is not strange that my answer was carried

he walked the halls of

waveringly over the air and failed to reach

Congress. Ross lost his

the Avalon Project at Yale Universi-

the limits of the audience, or that repetition

bid for reelection in

ty reported on Johnson’s impeach-

was called for by distant Senators on the

1870 and headed back

ment process. “A political tragedy

opposite side of the Chamber.”

to Kansas. He switched

was imminent…It was plain that a

parties in 1872 and

single vote would be sufficient to

Justice L.D. Bailey sent a telegram to Ross,

ran for Governor as

turn the scales either way—to evict

“The rope with which Judas Iscariot hanged

a Democrat, but was

the President from his great office

himself is lost, but Jim Lane’s pistol is at your

badly defeated. Ross spent much of the rest

or keep the honorable roll of American

service.” A Kansas newspaper editorial read,

of his life justifying his vote on the Johnson

Presidents unsmirched before the world,

“On Saturday last Edmund G. Ross, United

impeachment. He wrote articles and a book

despite the action of the House.”

States Senator from Kansas, sold himself, and

in the 1890’s claiming his vote, despite being

betrayed his constituents; stultified his own

political suicide, was an act of courage done

record, basely lied to his friends, shame-

to save the nation from the Radical Repub-

When Ross’s print shop burned down

fully violated his solemn pledge and to the

licans and uphold the strength and integrity

in 1882, he packed up his family and moved

utmost of his poor ability signed the death

of the executive branch of the government.

west to New Mexico where he went back

After the vote, Kansas Supreme Court

warrant of his country’s liberty. This act

“For the first time in the history of the

“ A heroic act, a valiant soldier, and an honest man.”

into the printing business. He once again

was done deliberately, because the traitor,

government, the President of the United

thrust himself into the local political scene.

like Benedict Arnold, loved money better

States was at the bar of the Senate…

He opposed the notorious Sante Fe Ring,

than he did principle, friends, honor, and his

The dominant party of the country was

which controlled territorial politics, and

country, all combined. Poor, pitiful, shriveled

aroused and active for the deposition of

for his efforts, Grover Cleveland, the first

wretch, with a soul so small that a little pelf

the President…It would have practically

Democratic President of the United States

would outweigh all things else that dignify or

revolutionized our splendid political fabric

since Andrew Johnson, appointed him

ennoble manhood.”

into a partisan Congressional autocracy,”

continued on page 51

About the Author Herb Merrick was born in Yokohama Japan the oldest son of a career Army Officer, but grew up in Forsyth, Missouri where his family settled on the farm, that he still oversees. He was raised in November of 1974 in the Forsyth Lodge 453. He graduated from Missouri State University in May of 1975 and was commissioned in the US Army as field artilleryman. In June of that year he married Carolyn and they spent the next twenty two years traveling the world. Herb has sat in a lot of lodges, but was only active in one before moving to Kansas. He held a variety of offices in Forget-Me-Not 896 in the American Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany during his five years serving in that country, including secretary for two years. In 1994 Herb, Carolyn and their daughter Kristina settled in Lansing, Kansas and Herb joined Hancock Lodge 311 on Fort Leavenworth. He served as Master in 2004 and again in 2009. He has held every office in the lodge except Treasurer. He served the Grand Lodge as District Deputy in 2009, as Grand Pursuivant in 2013 and Grand Marshal in 2014. He has also been on a number of Grand Lodge Committees.

Herb belongs to the Armed Forces Scottish Rite, Leavenworth and Heidelberg York Rite bodies, Greeter of Abdallah Shrine, Byington Chapter 177 OES as well as Haworth Chapter 32 OES and the National Sojourners of Fort Leavenworth. He has been the treasurer of Pilgrim Community Church for the last thirteen years.

Kristina lives in Washington DC with her husband Nick and their daughter Evelyn.

Herb teaches at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. In his spare time he likes the shooting sports, hunting, golf, and reading particularly ancient and military history. Plus getting to see Evelyn whenever there is a chance.

FALL 2016 27

MEMBER INTERVIEW

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

How did you first find out about

How has Freemasonry inspired you,

Freemasonry?

or how has it made you a better person?

I come from a long line of Masons. My fam-

I would hope everyone, being a Freemason

ily has multiple generations of Masons so I

or not, should always strive to be a better

was familiar with the fraternity. I didn’t join

person. I feel like each brother Mason I

until my uncle was actively involved, and it

have come in contact with has played a role

piqued my curiosity.

in inspiring me to be a better person, to volunteer to help complete projects and

Shawn Cardin, Master, Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, DDGM

What do your friends think about

to volunteer within my community and our

your involvement?

local school districts.

My friends who aren’t familiar with Freema-

Once they find out the benefits the fraternity offers with the fellowship, brotherhood, support, and community support they ask for more information.

sonry at first joke around about it and think

What do you look forward to

we are still the “elusive secret” society.

when you attend Lodge meetings?

Once they find out the benefits the frater-

I travel a lot for work. I look forward to

nity offers with the fellowship, brotherhood,

attending lodges when I am away from

support, and community support they ask

home. It is a familiar sense of “home” even

for more information.

away from home. While attending meetings at home, I look forward to seeing my

Why is Freemasonry important to you?

brothers, spending time with them and their

I genuinely appreciate the core values

families and learning the craft.

Freemasonry is built upon, the atmosphere and extended family developed within

What do you see as the future

the lodge.

of Freemasonry?

I’d like to be optimistic about things. I feel

Why is Freemasonry important

that our fraternity will grow within the next

to your community?

few years. However, I think the days of

We develop programs to benefit the entire

2B1ASK1 are days of the past. I feel like

community, whether it is a clothing drive

we need to start promoting ourselves and

or donations to a food pantry. KMF has

begin recruiting men we feel would be great

provided multiple scholarships to deserving

Masons and help carry our fraternity into

high school graduates and college students

the future.

who may not otherwise be able to attend a

higher learning institution. That’s just one of the great programs we have to offer.

28 THE KANSAS MASON

AROUND THE WORLD

By Floren L. Quick (-reprinted from the Masonic Shimbun in the GLBC Bulletin, Nov. ‘79)

He never knows the opportunities that the Craft makes available to those who diligently seek them.

The Modern Cowan In Scotland, the operative Mason knew

dignity of the Craft. As a presiding officer,

devotion which he has to offer. He never

Cowan’s to be ignorant builders who put

his vocal ability is more noteworthy than his

knows the opportunities that the Craft

stones together without mortar. They piled

executive ability; and when his term is end-

makes available to those who diligently seek

rough fieldstones into a wall without hewing

ed, he is seldom seen until another honor

them. He misses the opportunities that the

them true, or squaring them. They mas-

or prize appears to be within his grasp.

Craft makes available to strive for a just and

queraded as Masters, but they did not have

He is a contemporary builder who

worthy cause. He misses the opportunity

works without the benefit of the mortar

for continuing fellowship and friendship.

of real enthusiasm or accomplishments.

He misses the opportunity for loyalty and

too often – we find a modern equivalent of

His structure is liken unto the rough stone

devotion. He misses the opportunity for

the operative imposter. One such is the

wall, having little beauty of value. He is the

development of his executive, intellectual

Mason who manages a place in an officer’s

Cowan’s of modern speculative Masonry.

and oratorical abilities. And most of all, he

the Word.

Now and again, today - fortunately not

line with little or no effect of his own to

He is to be pitied, for he is a Masonic

misses the opportunity for service- to God-

deserve it. With only that exertion that is

failure. His honors are shallow. Bringing no

to his community- and to his fellow man.

necessary to maintain his place, he contin-

interest to his position, he received little of

These are the jewels that Masonry has

ues to advance in line until he receives the

the satisfaction and respect that belongs to

to offer, but in his quest for position and

jewels and honors that he prizes so highly.

the real Master.

honors, the modern Cowan misses them.

But he does not know the Constitution, and he does not understand the traditions and

Masonry has failed to reach him with a clear understanding of those marks of true

Like the operative Cowan, he does not have the Word.

FALL 2016 29

FROM THE ARCHIVES

By Dylan Kuhlman, Archivist, Kansas Masonic Library & Museum

The Start of the Grand Lodge of Kansas:

The Founding Documents Here at the Kansas Masonic Library and Museum, we recently rediscovered what would be considered the Grand Lodge of Kansas’ Founding Documents.

more delegates would be available. On the 27th of December, the delegates from Lodges with charters in Kansas Territory met in Leavenworth with the purpose of

These documents are the “Minutes of the

Leavenworth and Smithton were present.

forming a Grand Lodge. Again, delegates

Convention to Organize the Grand Lodge

Delegates from the remaining Kansas Ter-

from Wyandotte Lodge were not present.

of Kansas” and the “Original Constitu-

ritory Lodge with a charter from Missouri,

A decision was made to proceed with the

tion and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of

Kansas Lodge (name changed to Wyandotte

convention to form the Grand Lodge, and

Kansas.” These important documents have

Lodge in October 20, 1856) were not pres-

that the proceedings of the meeting be cop-

been removed from their previous location,

ent. The convention was postponed until

ied and given to Wyandotte Lodge so they

copied digitally, and placed in special plastic

December 27, 1855, when it was assumed

could approve the Grand Master and other

preservation sleeves.

The Grand Lodge of Kansas was

pro-tem officers, as well as

formally organized on March 17,

the Constitution

1856. Prior to that date, delegates

and By-Laws

from Lodges in Kansas met on two

agreed upon.

separate occasions to try and form a

The next

Grand Lodge in the Kansas Territory.

meeting was

A meeting was held on November

held on March

14, 1855, in Leavenworth, Kansas.

17, 1856, and

At this meeting only delegates from

delegates from all chartered Lodges were present. The meeting finally saw the formation of a Committee on Credentials and a Committee on Constitution and By-Laws that

The Minutes from the Convention to Organize

30 THE KANSAS MASON

The Original Constitution

made recommendations that were unanimously approved as the Grand Lodge of Kansas’ Constitution and By-Laws. It was also at this meeting that the first three Lodges were organized into their final names and numbers. The decision was based on the order in which the Grand Lodge of Missouri issued their charters, resulting in the Grand Lodge of Kansas being formed by Smithton Lodge No. 1, Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, and Kansas Lodge No. 3. After the formation of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, the next big event came in May 1856 when Grand Master Rees traveled to Missouri and the Grand Lodge of Kansas was officially recognized by that state’s Grand Lodge. Other actions taken by this new Grand Lodge were to issue Dispensations to the two Lodges that were still working U. D. for Missouri. A

Grand Master Richard R. Rees

Dispensation was also granted to members

Secretary Charles Harrison used to write the

tion and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of

in Atchison, Kansas, to be called Washing-

first By-Laws for Kansas. It is important for an

Kansas,” we also found the original Petitions

ton Lodge. On July 14, 1856, these three

institution to have control of such founding

and Dispensations for Smithton Lodge No.

Lodges were granted charters under the

documents and be able to keep them safe

1, Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Wyandotte

names and numbers of Kickapoo Lodge No.

and available for years to come.

Lodge No. 3, Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, and

4, Washington Lodge No. 5 and Lawrence

Collecting and preserving the most

Lodge No. 6. This gave the Grand Lodge of

important documents of the Grand Lodge

Lodge of Missouri. These are important

Kansas its first six Lodges.

of Kansas and the Lodges around Kansas is

founding documents for each Lodge and

an ongoing project. Securing these docu-

have undergone the same preservation and

found and available, we can see, in primary

ments for the Kansas Masonic Library and

care as the Grand Lodge documents. Look

documents, history being made by the first

Museum was a great step, but the search is

for all these founding documents to be in-

Masons in Kansas. We can read the exact

never over. Along with the “Minutes of the

volved in some sort of display at the Kansas

words picked by PGM Richard Rees and see

Convention to Organize the Grand Lodge

Masonic Library and Museum at the Grand

those words written in the original pen Grand

of Kansas” and the “Original Constitu-

Lodge of Kansas sometime in the late fall.

Now, with these two major documents

Lawrence Lodge No. 6 made to the Grand

Dylan Kuhlman has been working in archives and libraries for the last six years. Originally from Dighton, a small western Kansas town, he attended Baker University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in History. He followed with a Masters in Library Science and an Archives Certificate from Emporia State University.

His work experience includes positions at the University and Kansas Methodist Archives for Baker University, the National Archives and Records Administration in Kansas City and the Kansas Historical Society in Topeka. He has also done volunteer and graduate work at the Grinter Place Historic Site, The National WWI Museum, The Kansas City Public Library and the University Archives at Johnson County Community College.

Sources: Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Kansas; History of Kansas Masonry, Graybill, Ben.

FALL 2016 31

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

T hank You

to all of the Kansas Masonic Lodges and Masonic Appendant Organizations that help to send almost 250 High School Students from around the state to camp.

This is the largest Band Camp in the 33 year history. Watch for completed Band Camp coverage in the next issue of The Kansas Mason.

HAVE YOU MADE YOUR

PLEDGE YET? If not, join your Kansas Masonic Brothers and do so today!

We have identified several future priorities for us as an organization.

These priorities represent, not new directions or goals for KMF, but expansions and extensions of our foundational goals, which emerge from our vision and mission.

GOALS

SCIENTIFIC/RESEARCH MASONIC CANCER ALLIANCE

ADULT SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING SERVICE

EDUCATIONAL

KANSAS MASONIC LITERACY CENTER GRAND LODGE MUSEUM & LIBRARY CREATION & RENOVATION MUSEUM & LIBRARY ARCHIVIST ENDOWMENT KANSAS FREEMASONRY PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

CHARITABLE BUI LDING KANSAS

KANSAS MASON PRIDE COMMUNITIES OF EXCELLENCE KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY MILITARY AFFAIRS PARTNERSHIP

For Questions call or email Bob Shively, Executive Director, Kansas Masonic Foundation at Bob@KansasMasonic.Foundation (785) 357-7646

32 THE KANSAS MASON

KANSAS MASONIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP CHALLENGE

KANSAS MASONIC LODGES AND OTHER MASONIC AFFILIATED BODIES THAT PARTICIPATED IN THE 33RD ANNUAL KANSAS MASONIC ALL-STATE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND

MASONIC LODGES Active Lodge No. 158, AF&AM Advance Lodge No. 114, AF&AM Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, AF&AM Altamont Lodge No. 69, AF&AM Americus Lodge No. 109, AF&AM Black Diamond Lodge No. 274, AF&AM Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, AF&AM Belleville Lodge No. 129, AF&AM Benedict Lodge No. 403, AF&AM Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433, AF&AM Black Diamond Lodge No. 274, AF&AM Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169, AF&AM Bourbon Lodge No. 268, AF&AM Burlington Lodge No. 66, AF&AM Caney Lodge No. 324. AF&AM Carbondale Lodge No. 70, AF&AM Carson Lodge No. 132, AF&AM Cedar Lodge No. 103, AF&AM Centre Lodge No. 147, AF&AM Circleville Lodge No. 20, AF&AM Climax Lodge No. 411, AF&AM Clinton Lodge No. 233, AF&AM Comanche Lodge No. 295, AF&AM Constellation Lodge No. 95, AF&AM Corinthian Lodge No. 79, AF&AM Cosmos Lodge No. 278, AF&AM De Soto Lodge No. 40, AF&AM Delaware Lodge No. 96, AF&AM Delphian Lodge No. 44, AF&AM Delta Lodge No. 77, AF&AM Dover Lodge No. 138, AF&AM Derby Lodge No. 365, AF&AM Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, AF&AM Emporia Lodge No. 12, AF&AM Erie Lodge No. 76, AF&AM Euclid Lodge No. 101, AF&AM Fargo Lodge No. 300, AF&AM

Fidelity Lodge No. 106, AF&AM Old Mission Lodge No. 153, AF&AM Fortitude Lodge No. 107, AF&AM Onaga Lodge No. 188, AF&AM Galena Lodge No. 194, AF&AM Orient Lodge No. 51, AF&AM Gardner Lodge No. 65, AF&AM Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, AF&AM Gilead Lodge No. 144, AF&AM Ottawa Lodge No. 18, AF&AM Girard Lodge No. 93, AF&AM Overland Park Lodge No. 436, AF&AM Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, AF&AM Palmyra Lodge No. 23, AF&AM Goodland Lodge No. 321, AF&AM Paradise Lodge No. 290, AF&AM Great Bend Lodge No. 15, AF&AM Parker Lodge No. 341, AF&AM Halstead Lodge No. 46, AF&AM Parsons Lodge No. 117, AF&AM Harmony Lodge No. 94, AF&AM Peace Lodge No. 243, AF&AM Hays Lodge No. 195, AF&AM Perry Lodge No. 415, AF&AM Haysville Lodge No. 112, AF&AM Prudence Lodge No. 100, AF&AM Hebron Lodge No. 314, AF&AM Ridgeway Lodge No. 62, AF&AM Henri Lodge No. 190,AF&AM Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, AF&AM Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, AF&AM Roger E. Sherman-West Gate Lodge No. 438, AF&AM Hoisington Lodge No. 331, AF&AM Rosedale Lodge No. 333, AF&AM Holton Lodge No. 42, AF&AM Salina Lodge No. 60, AF&AM Hugoton Lodge No. 406, AF&AM Shawnee Lodge No. 54, AF&AM Iola Lodge No. 38, AF&AM Siloam Lodge No. 225, AF&AM Jewell Lodge No. 11, AF&AM Solomon City Lodge No. 105, AF&AM Kilwinning Lodge No. 265, AF&AM Spring Hill Lodge No. 56, AF&AM King Solomon Lodge No. 10, AF&AM St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, AF&AM Lafayette Lodge No. 16, AF&AM St. Francis Lodge No. 404, AF&AM Lane Lodge No. 339, AF&AM Stanley Lodge No. 444, AF&AM Lawrence Lodge No. 6, AF&AM Sunflower Lodge No. 86, AF&AM Lebo Lodge No. 152, AF&AM Thayer Lodge No. 149, AF&AM Mankato Lodge No. 87, AF&AM Topeka Lodge No. 17, AF&AM Marmaton Lodge No. 245, AF&AM Tuscan Lodge No. 460, AF&AM Marvin A. Armstrong Lodge No. 187, AF&AM Ulysses Lodge No. 435, AF&AM Mayetta Lodge No. 393, AF&AM Union Lodge No. 7, AF&AM Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, AF&AM Unity Lodge No. 273,AF&AM Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, AF&AM Virginia Lodge No. 315, AF&AM Neosho Lodge No. 27, AF&AM Wallace Lodge No. 318, AF&AM Newton Lodge No. 142, AF&AM Wichita Lodge No. 99, AF&AM Nickerson Lodge No. 43, AF&AM Winfield Lodge No. 110, AF&AM Ninnescah Lodge No. 230, AF&AM Woodson Lodge No. 121, AF&AM Olathe Lodge No. 19, AF&AM

AFFILIATED BODIES Aleppo Commandery of KT No. 31 Arab Shrine Order of Quetzalcoatl No. 8 Arab Shrine Antique Unit Arab Shrine Legion of Honor Arab Shrine Provost Guard Arab Shrine Ritualistic Cast Beatrice Chapter No. 450, OES Cheyenne Shrine Club Eva Chapter No. 18, OES Evangeline Chapter No. 162, OES Franklin County Shrine Club Gardner Chapter No. 236, OES

Golden Rod Chapter No. 163, OES Greenwood County Shrine Club Greenwood County Three Wheelers Hays Chapter No. 228, OES Hays Chapter Royal Arch Masons No. 68 Independence Council No. 15, R&SM Independence Shrine Club Jericho Council of Cryptic Masons No. 26 Kent Chapter No. 117, OES Keystone Chapter No. 22, RAM Mayetta Chapter No. 383, OES Miriam Chapter No. 14, OES Naomi Chapter No. 28, OES

Pursel Chapter No. 110, OES Queen Esther Chapter No. 32, OES Roger E. Sherman Chapter No. 8, OES Southwest Shrine Club St. Bernard Chapter No. 97, OES St. Bernard Commandery No. 10, KT Sunflower Chapter No. 147, OES Swan Chapter No. 311, OES Topeka High Twelve Club Topeka Scottish Rite Topless Unit of Arab Shrine Temple Ulysses Chapter No. 471, OES

SPECIAL MENTION Janean Armstrong Michael Bicknell

Henry & Carolyn Burmeister Peoples Bank of Coldwater Ronda Fincher

Steven Miles The Bank of Coldwater

FALL 2016 33

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

BUI LDING KANSAS

Masonic Cancer Alliance In January 2008, the Midwest Cancer Alli-

leading-edge clinical trials as

ance started with five founding members

well as professional educa-

unified by a single mission: to provide more

tion, networking and outreach

options close to home. In just six short

opportunities.

The Kansas Masons believed in us before we believed in ourselves.

years, the MCA has expanded to include 21

Over the past five years,

member sites across Kansas and the Kansas

the state of Kansas has pro-

City Metropolitan area. The MCA links The

vided up to $5 million per year

University of Kansas Cancer Center with

to The University of Kansas

researchers, hospitals, health care provid-

Cancer Center to support and maintain NCI

structure and support outreach and edu-

ers, patients and caregivers to advance the

designation. This funding allows the MCA

cation programs. Other funding sources

quality and reach of cancer prevention,

to provide up to 50 percent in matching

include grants and private philanthropic

early detection, treatment and survivorship

funds for Kansas members’ annual dues,

support.

in Kansas. The Alliance advances access to

as well as advance clinical trials infra-

— Roy Jensen, M.D..

The map provided shows how the MCA has dramatically increased access to can-

MCA: MAKING A DIFFERENCE THROUGHOUT KANSAS

cer care across Kansas. Prior to 2008, The University of Kansas Cancer Center was the primary location for cancer treatment. Since the founding of the MCA, there are now four research institutions and 17 hospitals for patients to receive care from doctors and professionals connected with the resources and techniques of the The University of Kansas Cancer Center. At present, approximately 90 percent of Kansas Masonic Lodges are located within 50 miles of a MCA member.

The MCA has made a remarkable difference in cancer treatment for Kansans and Kansas Communities across the state.

If not for the generosity of the Kansas Masons, The University of Kansas Cancer Center would not be the fast-forwardmoving, NCI- designated cancer center that it is today.

34 THE KANSAS MASON

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PIONEERS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER KMF Support Has Made a Real Difference

The $5 million endowment for the Masonic Cancer Alliance from the Kansas Masons provides ongoing funding for cancer services in Kansas.

When you establish an endowed fund with KU Endowment, you enter into a partnership to ensure that your gift provides consistent support every year while protecting its value across the generations — to benefit the MCA now and in the future. This will provide continued support for outreach (cancer screenings and telemedicine programs for MCA members), professional education and membership meetings.

Since 1974, the KMF has partnered with the University of Kansas to fight cancer and improve people’s lives. Over the years, KMF has contributed more than $25 Million to KU Medical Center.

Since 1974, Kansas Masons have partnered with the University of Kansas to fight cancer and improve people’s lives.

Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute Kansas Masons have contributed more than $20 million to KU Medical Center, which honored this commitment by naming the research arm of the cancer center the Kansas Masonic Cancer

As the cancer center embarks on a new quest for comprehensive cancer center designation, there is a request for a $5.0 Million endowment from KMF, over a multi-year period, to permanently endow the Masonic Cancer Alliance. This commitment will establish funding for cancer education and research, in partnership with the Kansas University

Research Institute (KMCRI).

Kansas Masons generosity was instrumental in helping The University of

Medical Center. This significant contribution will help change the future fight against

Kansas Cancer Center achieve designa-

cancer—it will enable more lives to be saved. The benefits of this initiative are many

tion as a National Cancer Institute (NCI)

and include:

cancer center. Fundraising support from

• Link Kansas communities with NCI-designated cancer research and expertise available at The University of Kansas Cancer Center • Connect patients to 2nd opinions and support health education programs close to home • Partner with the Kansas medical community to advance the quality and reach of

the Kansas Masons continues to benefit KMCRI and its programs, such as patient navigation and behavioral health therapy through the Midwest Cancer Alliance.

comprehensive cancer care • Host life-saving cancer screening events across the region A Kansas Mason receives a bone density scan at a recent screening clinic in Gardner, Kan.

Tracy Bloom, Deputy Grand Master, shaking hands with Dr. Roy Jensen at the redication of the Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute in 2010.

FALL 2016 35

BUI LDING KANSAS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Masonic Cancer Alliance Programs and Service Introduction

Survivorship Transition Clinic

The Masonic Cancer Alliance (MCA) is a membership-based organization that brings cancer research, care and support professionals together to advance the quality and reach of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship in the Heartland.

The MCA links The University of Kansas Cancer Center research and services with member hospitals, medical staff and their patients so the latest cancer research and care can be found close to home.

MCA has partnered with Children’s Mercy and KU Medical Center to help pediatric cancer survivors transition to adult care while addressing long-term health issues associated with cancer treatment.

Marketing & Public Relations The MCA assists with marketing and public relations initiatives that help promote the member’s participation in local cancer research, outreach and/or treatment.

Research Studies The MCA has an average of 20 treatment trials available at any given time for Clinical Research Partner members. In addition, population health studies addressing cancer prevention and survivorship are available. To date, over 600 individuals have participated in MCA research.

Second Opinions & Consultations MCA offers member medical professionals for second opinion and consultation services as well as access to multi-disciplinary tumor conferences where physicians across the region discuss best care for patients via Interactive Televideo (ITV).

Continuing Professional Education The MCA provides professional development opportunities that include Nursing Contact hours, Continuing Medical Education, networking events and educational resources.

Psychosocial Oncology The MCA’s licensed psychologist helps members support the emotional well-being of cancer patients from diagnosis through survivorship. Our therapist collaborates with existing cancer center counseling programs and can offer guidance for members who wish to initiate psychosocial oncology services.

Outreach Screenings & Services More than 10,000 participants have attended MCA cancer screening and education programs across the Heartland.

Some of the screenings provided include: skin, prostate, cervical and bone density Other outreach services provided through ITV: • Cooking program for cancer patients • Wellness programs for cancer survivors

Future Opportunities With additional funding, long-term plans include: • Enhance communications strategies to further promote cancer prevention and improve survivorship across the Midwest • Develop collaborations with Primary Care Physician • Fund a genetics counselor • Additional support for MCA’s biobank initiative • Expand survivorship clinics via ITV

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Patient Navigation MCA’s nurse navigator supports members’ care coordination initiatives; specializing in Navigation & Survivorship program development.

More options, close to home 36 THE KANSAS MASON

KANSAS MASONIC SERVICE THROUGH SIX DECADES 1966 - 2016 • 1966

• 2003

First Kansas Masonic Foundation Board is formed to show the Masons believe in the brotherhood of man.

• 1967

Kansas Masonic Lodges begin hosting Cancer Screening Outreach clinics. KMF pledges $15 million to The University of Kansas Cancer Center as part of KU First.

First Thanksgiving Day seals campaign kicks off, raising $6,381.

• 2004

• 1968 A student grant and loan program is developed to help deserving college students.

• 1972 KMF donates $5,000 for cancer research at KU Medical Center.

• 1973 KMF endows a full-time chair for a professor of oncology at KU Medical Center.

• 1974 KMF pledges to refurbish the KU Medical Center Cancer Clinic and provide funds for the center’s oncology nursing program.

• 1975 The Kansas Masonic Foundation Cancer Institute is dedicated and Foundation assets increase to nearly $250,000.

• 1992 KMF shifts grant funding to cancer research and, over the next 20 years, funds efforts that include: • The Kansas Masonic Foundation Chair in Cancer Research • Bob Dole Prostate Cancer Research Fund • Mark and Bette Morris Family Chair in Cancer Prevention • Psychosocial Oncology Endowment

KUMC renames its cancer research organization the Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute, reflecting a commitment of $20 million by the Kansas Masonic Foundation to support cancer research. The gift allows KUMC to recruit the cancer center’s first full-time director, Roy A. Jensen, M.D., a nationally recognized breast cancer researcher and pathologist from the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, an NCI designated comprehensive cancer center.

• 2010 Kansas Masons gather to dedicate the Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute.

• 2011 More than 50 cancer screening clinics held by Kansas Masonic Lodges in 47 communities since 2003 have screened more than 3,000 Kansans.

• 2012 KMF support serves key role in The University of Kansas Cancer Center’s successful application for National Cancer Institute Designation.

• 2014 KMF completes KU First pledge; total support exceeds $20 million.

• 2016 KMF celebrates 50th anniversary. The University of Kansas Cancer Center applies to NCI for comprehensive cancer center designation.

KUMC will rename its cancer outreach network the Masonic Cancer Alliance reflecting a commitment of $5 million by the KMF to support our mission in perpetuity.

FALL 2016 37

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Hugh W. Gill, Attorney, Hinkle Law Firm LLC

Naming a Charity in EP Documents In a prior column, I discussed the benefits

directed. The third is to use some language to account for the

of including charitable gifts in your estate

possibility of the charity changing names or being merged into

plan. After clients have decided to include

a new entity. Typically, for this I use the parenthetical “(or any

a charity in their estate plan, the most

successor entity).” For example, for an unrestricted gift to the

common question I then receive is how to

Kansas Masonic Foundation, the language I use in the docu-

identify the charity. The general rule when

ments is: Kansas Masonic Foundation, Inc., Topeka, Kansas (or

it comes to naming charities in estate planning documents,

any successor entity). The fourth potential part to naming a

such as a revocable trust or will, is that the charity must be

charity is to include language to restrict the use of the gift if

reasonably identified.

you want the gift used for a specific purpose.

There are three essential parts to naming a charity, and

Be sure to speak with an estate planning specialist about the

potentially a fourth depending on the type of gift. The first is

specific language to include in your documents if you want to

to use the charity's legal name. The second is to include the

make charitable gifts.

city where the charity is located or where you want the gift As a member of Hinkle Law Firm LLC’s trusts and estates practice group, Mr. Gill uses his extensive experience in business and tax matters to lead the probate and trust administration needs of the group. He is primarily responsible for guardianships and conservatorships, disability planning, postmortem tax planning, and marital agreements. He also assists clients with estate planning, asset protection, business entity formation, and business succession planning.

While a student at the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law, Hugh was the recipient of a number of awards, including the Payne & Jones Award and the Wall Street Journal Award for the top M.B.A. student in finance. Today, he frequently lectures on estate planning and estate administration topics. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America and Kansas/Missouri Super Lawyers.

2016 STATE MASONIC PUBLIC SCHOOL

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

MW Grand Lodge of AF & AM

ESSAY CONTEST FOR JUNIORS

of Kansas Essay Contest in partnership

AND SENIORS

Essay Contest

Announcing 2016 State Masonic Public School Essay Contest

with the Kansas Masonic Foundation

ESSAY CONTEST – $12,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED Materials will be sent to all Kansas High Schools by mid-August and to Kansas Masonic $

12,0 00 in Scholarships Awarded

Lodges by early August.

Essay Contest ESSAY CONTEST QUESTION:

Essays shall be limited to a minimum of 300 and a maximum of 500 words and must be submitted to the Local Lodge on or before November 1, 2016.

Contact any Kansas Masonic Lodge, ESSAY CONTEST QUESTION:

Kansas Mason, or your counselor

Foundation values of Freemasonry

for information.

include charity,

relief, and service to mankind.

How does your personal involvem ent in serving others parallel how Freemasons have benefited our community, nation, or world?

Foundation values of Freemasonry include charity, relief, and service to mankind.

How does your personal involvement in serving others parallel how Freemasons have benefited our community, nation, or world?

38 THE KANSAS MASON

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

PLEDGE GIVING TO DATE CORNERSTONE CIRCLE Capitol Federal Savings The Honorable Robert J. Dole Jonathan W. McConnell Marvin A. Miller Leland R. Porter

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE Lyn E. Beyer Ronald L. Capps Donald J. Horttor Herbert F. Merrick Raymond W. Richardson Robert A. Shively Mark E. Smith Jeffrey L. & Cheryl E. Sowder Mikel J. Stoops Douglas L. Wilkinson

AMBASSADOR CIRCLE Joe D. Bicking Jeffrey A. Breault D. Brian Byrd John G. Crary Timothy A. Fowler David W. Hendricks

BUILDER CIRCLE Tracy L. Bloom Anthony W. Borum James R. Burns Shawn M. Cardin Dahl R. Carmichael Vernon J. Clark Kim E. Crofoot Gary C. Doolittle David C. Eckert Duane A. Fitch Galen G. Graves Lee A. Hermreck Warren L. Hughes Russell B. Ingle Francis D. Jackson Roy A. Jensen Michael D. Johnson Walter M. Johnston John W. Krupp Kelly J. Long Randy R. Mahan MAR LAN Construction Jose M. Marrero Donald E. Matteson Steven L. Meyer J. Steven Molstad Roger L. Moore L. Kent Needham Craig A. Olson Kyle S. Olson B. Cole Presley William J. Reeder Frederick W. Reichert Warren R. Rensner Richard K. Ryan Gary G. Shipley Mark W. Stephenson Robert C. Talbott Walter and Opal Heide Family Charitable Trust Donald W. Wheeler Kenneth R. Wheeler Charles D. Williams J. Fred Williamson

Roy L. Meeker Charles H. Neeland Robert F. Nelson Razmi M. Tahirkheli Michael J. Tavares Topeka Lodge No. 17, AF&AM

DIRECTOR CIRCLE James L. Adkins Michael S. Bell Henry P. Burmeister L. Michael Carnes Andrew P. Cassity Dale L. Fritz W. Neal Gamble

Troy G. Glasgow Michael A. Halleran Victor J. Henke Michael J. Holeman Robert P. Jeselnik Dennis M. Johnson Daren L. Kellerman Clifford D. Knauss Michael A. Kupsch William P. Leonard Alexander D. Leslie Wade B. Madden Joseph A. Mitchell Delmus R. Morrow Donald D. Newman Jason C. Padgett Rozwell R. Perkins H. Wayne Rector Thomas R. Rigg Don E. Robinett Darrel L. Schultze Craig S. Stallwitz Vincent S. Tracey Vulcan Lodge No. 229, AF&AM Lincoln L. Wilson John J. Witmer

PATRON CIRCLE James L. Alcorn Daniel K. Allen Gary D. Brown Robert L. Buerkle Randall W. Carlson Shawn K. Catlin K. Tyler Curtis Arthur S. DeGroat Brendan M. Gelinas Jimmie L. Grassi Bradley T. Koehn Kenneth G. Lackey Rickey D. Leshure Robert D. McClarty Carl A. Otto Kevin R. Peterson John H. Stauffer Roy T. Sullivan Craig P. Thompson E. Ely Wells

FRIEND CIRCLE Leslie B. Allison Robert B. Anver John L. Barker Richard E. Barnes

Roger N. Bell Garry R. Bichelmeyer Charles M. Bond Lowell G. Brown Vance A. Burns Jamie L. Carwell Robert O. Case Clyde L. Clark Jerry M. Clements Vernon T. Coffee Thomas H. Corson Jeffery J. Cross Lynne M. Diehl Wayne E. Edkin Thomas F. Edmonds Equity Lodge No. 131, AF&AM Dale L. Fischer Conrad M. Fisher Jairus D. Flora Randall L. Fritzler Casey L. Fulton Charles M. Fulton Lucas S. Fulton Scott L. Fulton Larry D. Garner Jason S. Gibson Thomas R. Gillespie Raymond C. Gottstein Thomas H. Gray Richard R. Haefele William H. Hale John W. Halladay Roland W. Hayden Bernard C. Hedge Walter Hibbard Scott V. Hogeland Allan L. Hurlburt Dave L. Hutchison Iowa Scottish Rite Masonic Foundation Robert C. Johnson Robert P. Johnston Theodore M. Jones Kenneth J. Karcher Gaylon K. Kintner Darryl V. Kopfman Hope M. Krebill Leslie E. Krull Ross A. Kuttler Thomas K. Marshall George P. Maxwell Alfred N. McCaskey Wiliam D. McDaniel Norman F. McLeod

John Mesawitz John L. Meyer Kenneth D. Miller Bernard E. Moore James L. Morton John E. Mowen Bruce A. Murray Matthew T. Mutz Steven H. Nootz Sylvia M. Obaya Paul R. Oldham Gustavo Ortuvia Chester N. Peterson Elwood J. Phelps Terry L. Poley Arno L. Ponder Carol D. Reagan Duane E. Rector Mark C. Reeder Timothy E. Robitaille John M. Ryan John J. Ryan Richard R. Rybolt Patrick H. Sauble Delven B. Schwartzkopf Donald E. Sellers Kelly L. Shaft Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, AF&AM Richard J. Shelton Ronald L. Shelton Wayne A. Shireman Duane D. Shively Andrew M. Short Charles W. Siecgrist W. Warren Slocombe Jerry O. Snow Marvin L. Stevens Darryl L. Stone Norman W. Thoms Ronald D. Turner Michael K. Walline Michael P. Ward Dylan D. Warrington Robert M. Weaverling Robert A. Webber Bobby J. Welch Dustin A. Wheeler Donald R. Whitlow Matthew C. Whitney James E. Williams Clarence J. Wolfe Howard R. Woosley Cecil L. Worden

FALL 2016 39

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

A Shining Example of the Kansas Masons Scholarship Program — Profile of a Recipient In August, recent high school graduate Lau-

she’s frequently asked why face painting,

brother, who was just recently found to be

ren Browning will move to California to begin

and many people don’t understand what

cancer-free. They’ll do private events, like

studying at the prestigious California Institute

her organization – which now sends out

birthday parties, for a donation.

of the Arts, her college career boosted by a

teams of face painters to numerous events

scholarship from the Kansas Masonic Foun-

– makes a difference.

dation and De Soto Lodge No. 40.

“This is the one-on-one interaction and

“We’re built on several tiers, or layers,” she said of the organization, which will continue after she leaves for California. In

it’s such an impactful moment,” she said. “I

fact, she plans to start a branch there. “The

her mark in California, even at the young

have this chance. You can make it a simple

goal of Faces of HOPE, as a nonprofit, isn’t

age of 18, she leaves behind an important

thing, but you have the opportunity to make

to raise money. It’s a side effect that’s been

legacy in the Kansas City area.

it more than that.”

happening. In the past nine years, we’ve

As Browning moves on to surely make

When Browning was nine years old, her

It took her a year to realize the face

raised $24,000.”

It’s exciting to raise the dollars and help

godbrother was diagnosed with neuroblas-

painting was growing as she was invited to

toma, an aggressive brain cancer. Her family

more and more events, and that’s when the

organizations, but Browning always comes

had always been active in volunteering, but

name Faces of HOPE came about.

back to painting, often with children who

now Browning saw a focus to what she

“By seventh grade, I was getting pretty

wanted to do.

busy. It was getting pretty intense,” Brown-

Browning founded Faces of HOPE, a face-painting organization that would eventually become a 501(c)(3), to bring joy into the world for cancer patients, their families and the general public.

ing said. “I filed for my 501(c)(3), the

“We started as a family going to events

pay for the filing of it – just go the layman’s

brings more smiles, and it brings a little bit

route, is what I call it, it takes a really long time to process.”

She paused in her retelling of the history and grinned. “Actually, at the beginning of

things for the childhood cancer cause,”

my 501(c)(3); it was a very emotional day

Browning said of what began her idea. “It

when I got that,” she said. “No one at school

was really frustrating; there is a lot of red

really understood why I was excited.”

Today, Faces of HOPE has about 10 face

in almost every organization. You can be

painters, ranging in age from fourth grad-

there and you can go, but you can’t really

ers to adults. One year, Browning said, they

do anything. I wanted to do the real work.

counted that she painted 5,000 faces.

and they needed a face painter.”

They asked Browning if she could do it,

At public events, related to an organization, Faces of HOPE shows up for free and the event organizers choose an organization

and she answered, “I might not be great at

to donate proceeds to. Browning said that

it, but I’ll try.”

list always includes Brian’s Hope, which

Faces of HOPE was born. Browning said

40 THE KANSAS MASON

“Every single one of those people, I think, is an equal opportunity for impact. It

this year, I was able to take the ‘pending’ off

Then that year, there was just a little event,

for a few minutes.

official nonprofit registration. If you don’t

and volunteering more and doing more

tape for volunteering under the age of 12,

have cancer, and taking away their troubles

is the organization in honor of her god-

better in the world.

It’s something she’s already exploring.

Browning wrote and directed a play at her school, Blue Valley Southwest, about gender norms.

“I convinced my school to let me have it there; they were very hesitant because it addressed a lot of topics that the Blue Valley School district, and I’m sure other schools, hadn’t really addressed. They weren’t sure about putting a freshman on stage talking about rape,” she said, adding that the play addressed numerous other gender norms from a male and female perspective. “I finally sat down with them Lauren with her Grandfather, Stanley Browning, PGM & De Soto Lodge No. 40 Secretary Mikel J. Stoops

and said, ‘it’s happening in the hallways; I’m not sure why you’re hesitant to put it on the stage.’”

The school agreed, and Browning made

more joy. When a kid who has cancer sits

hardest events because I get to know the kids

down in the chair, they can control so little in who go to them, and then sometimes you go

another stipulation in the theater department there. Typically, roles in school plays were

their lives and you look at them and you say,

back and the kids aren’t there. That’s always

played by the repertory theater group. But

‘What do you want to be,’ for 30 seconds,

been something that’s been hard for me. At

she insisted on opening the auditions to the

they have no constraints, and nothing stop-

first, definitely when I was younger, I didn’t

entire school. “Those kids have had their voices

ping them or telling them what they have to

understand, and I got really upset and really

shared; they’ve been on the stages,” she said.

do or be. They get to sit in this chair and be

angry a lot. I started theater at the same time,

“This is the story of the voiceless.”

a kid for a few minutes.”

the summer I started Faces of HOPE, as an

For costumes, the cast wore a single word

outlet for all the things I was feeling and trying

on t-shirts, and that word was a reflection of

no to what a child envisions – Browning

to cope with. The kids I was painting were

how they were typecast into roles within the

said recently she painted a boy’s feet with

mostly my age, so I was friends with them and

school and life.

Spiderman.

then they would pass away. A couple of years

“They all had to derive a label that was

The painfulness of what she’s doing has required Browning to grow, from a young age, in ways that few people do. She began acting – and at the Institute of Arts, she’s pursuing a career in acting with the intent of doing theater for social change – in grade school as an outlet for some of those feelings.

ago, one of my friends who had been a friend

personally impactful to themselves,” Browning

through it all, passed away. I was older and I

said. “There was a freshman girl, who had been

Faces of HOPE face painters never say

was in high school. It never is fair, and it’s never labeled a skank, and it was right on her chest their time, and it’s so hard because they’re so

for all the audience to see. I had a really, really

young, and they’re so bright and kind.”

wonderful vulnerable cast.”

Faces of HOPE has changed Browning’s

To learn more about Lauren go to her

life, and will continue to do so as she creates

website www.laurensagebrowning.com.

a career around social change. What Brown-

To make a tax deductible donation to Faces

ing wants to do is post-modern theater that

of HOPE, a 501 (c) (3) Foundation, please

is designed to have an impact on social issues,

mail checks to the business address, Faces of

doing, all nine years,” she said. “Those are

sometimes bluntly and sometimes through

HOPE Foundation, 16132 Birch Street,

like my favorite events, and also usually the

the subtle pointing out of things that could be

Overland Park, Kansas 66085.

“There’s a lot of events that I’ve been

FALL 2016 41

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

‘

Dear Kansas Masonic Foundation, I am sincerely honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Kansas Masonic Lodge Scholarship.

As I continue my education at Kansas State University, I am very thankful for receiving your thoughtful gift. Thank you for your generosity, which has allowed me to focus more on my education and perfecting the skills needed in today's healthcare profession.

‘

Thank you again for your thoughtful and generous gift.

Whitney G. Gutsch

Dear Kansas Masons, Thank you for honoring me with a Lester Barrett and Clarice Whitehill King Scholarship for 2016! I am excited to begin a new chapter in life, and the K-State Polytechnic University campus will soon be my home!

I look forward to hearing from the Belleville Lodge No. 129, as I count many of the Lodge's members as mentors, neighbors, and friends!

Thank you again for this gracious gift.

I intend to make you very proud!

Sincerely Lane Shoemaker

’ ‘

Kansas Masons, Thank you for awarding me the Lester Barrett and Clarice Whitehill King Scholarship. I consider it a great honor to receive this scholarship and truly appreciate your generosity.

Sincereley Katie Conley

42 THE KANSAS MASON

’

‘

Whom it may concern, Thank you so much for your generosity in awarding me the Lester Barrett and Clarice Whitehill King Scholarship. I really appreciate it and it will come in handy next year at Kansas State.

Paige Molstad

‘

Dear Kansas Masons, I would like to thank you and everyone who made this scholarship possible. It is truly an honor to be given this award on behalf of the Kansas Masonic Foundation. It gives me great pride to be a part of an everlasting brotherhood that has taught me the many values of trust, KWUUQ\UMV\ IVL N]TÅTTUMV\ As I continue throughout life, I will always remember these morals and everything the Kansas Freemasons have done for me.

Thank you so much!

Sincerely Trent Frye

Thank you for this generous gift.

Receiving this from an organization that incorporates such high morals is an honor.

’

From what I have studied and what I have seen through the actions of two specific masons in my life, my grandfather, Jim Noel, and father, Lee Noel, the most important part of masonry is the selfless giving and performing acts of kindness with no expectation of anything in return. Masons have been around for over 500 years and the lodge has carried a legacy of integrity throughout. With the immense charity funding and responsibility for different museums, retirement homes, Schizophrenia research programs, D.A.R.E. programs, and numerous others, Masons contribute in several ways in helping better our world.

These values are what I hope to better myself in as I take my next steps into the future. I am excited for college and everything that follows. As of now, I want to study business and ultimately earn a master's degree in Health Care Administration. I am very passionate about helping people and I feel that with the leadership skills I have gained through sports, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the teachings from my parents, and what I will learn in coming years, I can be suited in a management position.

With my Christian values and what I have learned from Masons, I hope that I can carry the same characteristics that both hold. Sharing love, integrity, and selflessness with the people around me is what I strive for.

’

The Kansas Masonic Foundation scholarship will take a big part in helping me accomplish my goals. This money is not just a way for me to get to college, but it creates opportunities and opens various doors. It is a privilege for me to receive and accept such a hospitable endowment. I appreciate it very much. Thank you.

–Avery Noel

FALL 2016 43

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

‘

‘ Dear Kansas Masons, Thank you so much for awarding me the Lester Barrett and Clarice Whitehill King Scholarship. I feel so honored to receive this award, and as a vet student at Kansas State University, being recognized for my hard work in this way means so much to me. This is such a blessing, and I am grateful for the wonderful support of the Kansas Masons. Thank you once again for your generosity.

Sincerely, Karsen Brown KSU CUM Class of 2019

Dear Kansas Masons, I am honored to have been selected to receive the Cynthia Russell Memorial Scholarship.

I will use this scholarship to major in agricultural communications and minor in leadership studies at Kansas Sate University.

Thank you for this scholarship and all you do for youth.

Sincerely, Janae McKinney

‘

Dear Kansas Masons,

’

Thank you so much for granting me the $1,000 scholarship. You have no idea how much this helps in accomplishing my college goals.

I really appreciate the opportunities this gift will bring and the great generosity of the Kansas Masonic Foundation and all Kansas Masons.

Sincerely, Avery Noel

44 THE KANSAS MASON

’

’

HOME WARMINGS

By Hervey Wright III, Director of Development and Fraternal Relations, KMH

Deep Roots Stabilize Kansas Masonic Home children and 46 adults residing at KMH.

The Kansas Masonic Home was founded

On December 21, 1916, a fire started

and dedicated on September 10, 1896 through a collaborative effort of the Grand

in the boiler room of the main building. By

Lodge of Kansas A.F. & A.M. and the Grand

the time the fire was discovered, flames

Chapter of Kansas Order of the Eastern

had spread throughout the building. It was

Star after many years of planning and raising

a bitterly cold night and firemen where

money. Their goal was to provide “relief of the aged and infirm brother, the protection

old Wichita Court House.

KMH immediately began accepting both

hampered by frozen water lines and difficulty in controlling the flames. When it

of the widow and the support and educa-

children and seniors. The first resident was

was finally extinguished, five adults lost their

tion of the orphan.”

admitted on October 16, 1896. By the end

lives. Reports show there were 108 people

of 1896, there were 14 children and 5 adults

in the building at

residing at the home. In the following years

the time of the

KMH grew into a vibrant and flourishing hub

fire. The people

of service and care for those in need. By

of Wichita and

1898, it became apparent that more room

the surrounding

was needed. Plans for expansion included additional bedrooms, a veranda, dining The original idea to establish a Kansas

room and kitchen. In 1904, a two story ad-

Masonic Home is attributed to Brother

dition included more bedrooms and another

Willis Brown, Worthy Grand Patron OES

dining room.

in 1881. By 1893, $27,200 was collected

The Eastern Star Chapel was built by

from all Masonic bodies and the idea

support of each Eastern Star Chapter in

started to become a reality. This successful

Kansas. The final cost was $10,350 and was

area opened their homes to members of

undertaking was described at the time as a

opened without ceremony on September

the KMH family and most of the men lived,

result of “vision, fortitude, capable leader-

10, 1906 on the 10th anniversary of KMH.

for a time, in the Chapel. This single event

ship and loyal cooperation.” Early Wichita

It was formally dedicated on February 20,

remains a defining moment in the history

pioneer and businessman Robert Lawrence

1907. The chapel provided an opportunity

of KMH.

sold his beloved 15 acre estate, then called

for residents to wor-

Maplewood, to the Masons in 1896 for the

ship collectively and

of the board of directors

tidy sum of $21,000. The home, located

individually.

and representatives of the

An emergency meeting

Grand Lodge of Kansas

at 415 S. Seneca, was designed by archi-

The next few

tects Proudfoot and Bird and constructed

years saw continued

out of large cut native limestone in the

growth and expansion including a 33 room

Kansas met to discuss the future of KMH.

Victorian Romanesque architectural style.

addition and an Isolation Cottage. This cot-

It was decided to rebuild a facility that was

Several other landmark buildings had been

tage provided a location for residents with

entirely fireproof. Noted architect, Edwin

designed by these men in Wichita includ-

contagious diseases. By 1916, there were 48

L. Tilton of New York, was hired to design

and the Grand Chapter of

ing the administration building at Friends

the new facility in 1917. Three new buildings

University, Wichita Scottish Rite, and the

were designed and construction began im-

FALL 2016 45

mediately. Today, of those three buildings,

15, 1981 as a two floor,

only the Administration building remains. By

120 bed skilled nursing

1919, KMH consisted of seven buildings all

unit. The Pavilion was

connected by corridors. During those years,

built to accommodate

donations of clothes, bedding, supplies, and

residents that needed

money poured in from the Wichita com-

around-the-clock pres-

munity and the entire Masonic communities

ence of highly trained personnel who

home model had changed little since the late

around the state.

provide treatment and care for individuals

1950’s and 1960’s. Elders with dementia

In 1929 and 1930, the West side of

under a physician’s plan of care. In 1989 the

issues had become more prevalent due to

KMH opened. A new 60 bed infirmary was

Pavilion was dedicated and named the S. Al-

a greater understanding of Alzheimer’s. In

opened for those individuals requiring “hos-

lan Daugherty Medical Pavilion in honor of

2009 KMH entered into a strategic planning

pital care after living at home.” By 1931,

his many years of service as superintendent

period. KMH board, staff, residents, and

there were 350 residents living at KMH 155

in the 1960’s

community stakeholders spent time examin-

men, 90 women and 105

In 1993, the ground breaking ceremo-

ing the current business model and how

ny for the Independent Living Facility was

to shape the campus for the next decade.

held, and on March 13, 1994 the facility

After weeks of meeting and planning, a

1946, KMH celebrated

was dedicated and opened. It was named

change of philosophy of how seniors would

its 50th anniversary.

in honor of Thomas C. Raum, Past Grand

be cared for at KMH emerged. It would

Over the 50 years, KMH

Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas.

encompass an entire change of culture and

had provided care, com-

The facility was built to provide a home

would require years of planning, construc-

fort, and home to over

to residents who care for themselves

tion, and training to accomplish. It was a

children.

On September 10,

1,600 men, women, and children. A new

yet desire to be a part of a community of

radical departure from the established way

infirmary with 140 beds was completed in

individuals with common interests and goals.

of caring for seniors utilizing a method of

1956. In 1956, there were 276 elderly resi-

In 1997, construction began on additional

care that only a few communities in the

dents and only 3 children. By 1959, no chil-

assisted living facilities located at the north-

United States had adopted. Consultants

dren lived at KMH. The girls’ cottage was

west corner of the KMH campus. In 1999,

were hired and the planning process began.

converted into nurses’ quarters. In 1968

the Kenneth Caldwell Assisted Living Manor

Over the next 5 years, the “Household

the old gymnasium was no longer used for

was dedicated and opened. The Manor was

Model” of care would begin to take shape

its original purpose so was remodeled for

built to combine independence with per-

at KMH. Remodeling of the Towers,

office and storage space.

sonal care in a warm, dignified, community

Pavilion, and Manor would start in 2012. In

setting. Part of the first floor of the Manor

addition, a rehabilitation household would

to the public for the first time in its history.

was renovated in 2003 for the purpose of

be constructed on the southwest section

KMH leadership made this difficult deci-

creating 8 apartments that had a Memory

of the campus. Our Rapid Recovery Suites

In the late 1970’s, KMH became open

sion in order to remain

Support unit for residents

offer advanced resources and technology

financially viable. It was at

that were exhibiting signs of

for a wide range of short-term, intensive

this time that the federal

dementia.

rehabilitative services and recovery. These

programs of Medicare

During the decade of 2000,

services are available to residents of KMH

and Medicaid became

senior care was evolving to

as well as outside residents desiring quality

available to KMH.

meet the needs of an increasing

care. When construction was completed in

population of elderly indi-

2015, over $22 million was spent to trans-

The Medical Pavilion was opened on January

46 THE KANSAS MASON

viduals. The traditional nursing

continued on page 50

BOOK REVIEW

By Sanford Holst

Sworn in Secret: Freemasonry and the Knights Templar This exploration of the remarkable people

About The Author:

and influential activities of Freemasonry

Sanford Holst is the noted historian who wrote

is truly stunning. It sheds considerable

Amazon’s #1 book on the Phoenicians -- the

new light on how this brotherhood’s

people who helped build Solomon’s Temple.

practices, symbols and rituals took shape

The papers he presented at universities in the

and affected the world around it. “Born in

USA and overseas resulted in his being elected

Blood” began this work before its author

to the prestigious Royal Historical Society in

passed away in 1996.

England. As a Knight Templar and Master of a

Now noted historian Sanford Holst has

research lodge he was able to obtain access to

brought together many more discoveries

manuscripts not normally seen by the public.

that bring to life this society’s quiet lead-

He explored archives and historic sites from

ers and far-reaching influence. The roots

Scotland to the Holy Land, and benefited from

of Masonry are traced to Solomon’s

the work of local experts. His informative

Temple, the rise of Christianity, and the

websites are read by more than half a million

Crusades. This society’s relationships with

people each year.

stonemasons and the Knights Templar also take on new and significant meaning. We come to see how Masons were active in events that caused the fall of kings in Europe, the rise of democracy, and the Vatican’s loss of its supreme position atop the Christian world. After this secretive society emerged into public view in 1717, it had a strong influence on George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and other Masons who helped create a new country in America.

Those struggles are seen through the experiences of people who lived through these events--often told in their own words and drawn from remarkable collections of records dating from those times. Masonry remains active around the world, and its influences are still felt in our lives today.

WE COME TO SEE HOW MASONS WERE ACTIVE IN EVENTS THAT CAUSED THE FALL OF KINGS IN EUROPE, THE RISE OF DEMOCRACY, AND THE VATICAN’S LOSS OF ITS SUPREME POSITION ATOP THE CHRISTIAN WORLD

Forty-five illustrations brighten this memorable journey of discovery.

FALL 2016 47

BOOK REVIEW The New Mason’s Library

By Herb F. Merrick, Jr., DSM, Past Master Handcock Lodge No. 311 & KMF Trustee Recently I was working with a new member

officer in the lodge both administratively

of the lodge and was asked a simple but

and ritualistically. Then we could move into

important questions. “What should I be

the more historical and philosophical studies

reading?” The first thing that jumped into

of the Craft.

my head was, those pamphlets’ the secre-

HE WAS THE MAN WHO WAS SEARCHING FOR MORE LIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING

AND I NEEDED TO HAVE AN EQUALLY THOUGHTFUL ANSWER.

tary gives you after each degree, but upon

asked what were some of those and where

instant reflection I realized that he had al-

could he find them. He understood that

ready read them and was looking for more.

he could borrow anything out of the lodge

He was proficient in his memory work and

library, but he wanted to start his own col-

had quickly completed the quizzes. He had

lection so what should he start with beyond

questions about some of the answers and

the “working tools” as he called my first

discussed them in detail with me. When he

list. After admitting I was really fond of the

had petitioned and before he had been initi-

history of the Craft I recommended that

ated he read the Freemasonry for Dummies

he might like the two volumes The History

and had watched some pieces on television

of Kansas Masonry, then American Freema-

plus some on-line searches. We had talked

sons by Mark Tabbert, add to that Allen E.

about those things in coaching and men-

Roberts The Craft and Its Symbols and finally

toring secession already. He was the man

because there is a lot of discussion about

who was searching for more light from the

the concept the Traditional Observance Lodge

beginning and I needed to have an equally

by Cliff Porter. That would provide the start

thoughtful answer.

and from there we could discuss which of

Upon reflection I decided to discuss the books I carried with me in my “lodge

many direction he could go next.

This would get my brother well through

brief case” as the first books in the library.

his first year in the Craft. I had already

I opened it up and there was the extended

encouraged him to attend the local “School

cypher, a monitor, the manual of floor

of Light” sponsored by our Scottish Rite,

movements and its companion, digging a

but designed to discuss Craft Masonry.

little deeper I found my copy of the lodge

So I am convinced other well informed

officer’s guide and finally my copy of the

Brothers would make additional recommen-

Constitution and By Laws of the Grand

dations for his library. I am already

Lodge of Kansas, with a copy of my lodge’s

thinking of my next recommendations,

bylaw included in the back along with the

maybe Macoy’s The Little Masonic Library;

building association bylaws. I told him that

five indexed volumes that focused on the

these are things he should pick up after he

American masonic experience. I already

was raised and read through them and we

am eager to continue this discussion as both

would discuss them in more detail. That

of us seek more light.

way we could discuss the duties of each

48 THE KANSAS MASON

Being an inquiring mind he immediately

OUT AND ABOUT Heritage Lodge No. 458

Register at ksrockspark.com/2016/02/crawling-for-downs-benefit-run

By Gary Folk, Master

For questions, contacts are Andy Cassity at apcassity@gmail.com or Gary Folk at garyf@kc.rr.com

Masonic Charity Crawls for Down Syndrome Starting in 2011, Ben Hur Lodge No. 322

$20,000 to the DSG, not a huge amount

me by people who had no vested interest

hosted an event at the Kansas Rocks &

considering their annual operating budget

in this event beyond attending and having

Recreation Park, in Mapleton, Kan., to raise

is close to $500,000 but enough to fund a

a good time, but I want to believe that we

money for the Down Syndrome Guild of

couple of programs.

influenced that behavior.

Greater Kansas City. This is an off-road event for all types of Off Road Vehicles. It’s called crawling because the maximum speed in

At the 2014 event, with close to 250 people in attendance, I announced that it would be the last C4DS.

By the end of 2015, I felt something was missing in my life, not investing a couple of thousand hours into something leaves

the park is 5 m.p.h., but most of the

This decision wasn’t be-

too much time for a person to think. After

terrain would destroy a vehicle

cause of lack of interest or

speaking with a few Lodges (Heritage No.

at half that speed.

participation by supporters,

458, Rosedale No. 333 and Xenia No.

but it just got too large for

47) we have decided to host Crawling for

had 25 ORVs and about 40

one lodge to handle. We all

Down Syndrome – 2016. It is billed as a

people, but we managed to

know what I’m talking about

Kansas Freemason event, instead of indi-

The first year we only

donate $1,200 to the DSG after expenses. We had a great time

– most Lodges these days only have a couple of members who

vidual Lodges.

With the support of the KMF, we hope

and the people who attended all

are active in participating in anything.

2016 will be the best year ever. I would like

remarked that it was the best event

So I took the year off.

to thank all of the Brothers of Ben Hur,

they had been to. It was intended to

Over the course of 2015, I was

Heritage, Rosedale and Xenia Lodges for

be a one-time event, so I was a little disap-

bombarded with requests to run this event

their support, ideas and especially the blood

pointed more people didn’t attend. Those

again and even though I had offers from

and sweat they are likely to lose on that hot

who did convinced me to host it again and a

non-Masons to assist, I really wanted this

August day. But we will have a great time

funny thing happened. The Masonic charity

to be an event that first and for foremost

doing it!

spread…men who were not Masons started

raised money for a charity that I strongly

to drive me to keep this event going. They

believe in, but also, promoted Masonic

Kansas Rocks & Recreation Park in Maple-

got involved and promoted the event, made

charity and cast Kansas Freemasonry in a

ton, Kansas Freemasons will host Crawling

donations and gathered items to raffle.

good light. So I passed. I truly believe that

for Down Syndrome – 2016. Please make

Over the next three years, Crawling for

On August 13, from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. at the

charity does extend beyond the grave, or

Down Syndrome, or as it became known,

at the very least, it’s

C4DS, grew to one of the largest events

contagious. This was

at the Kansas Rocks & Recreation Park.

evident with the help

Ben Hur No. 322 and C4DS have donated

and support offered to

FALL 2016 49

OUT AND ABOUT plans to attend.

For more information on this event search Facebook for “Crawling for Down

GRAND LODGE The Roots of Today's Prince Hall Syndrome.” For more information about

continued from page 15

the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City, visit www.kcdsg.org/.

fully organized and ready for business. The election of RW DG Lett, to the office of Most Worshipful Grand Master for the state

OUT AND ABOUT

of Kansas came without a dissenting voice.

By James A. Craig, Past Master Pyramid Lodge No. 451,

H.G. Lett was appointed Deputy Grand

Secretary & Honorary Past Master Albert Pike Lodge No. 303

Master; H.C. Bruce, Senior Grand War-

What Makes A Man A Mason?

den; C.H. Langston, Junior Grand Warden;

The answer lies in the Q & A work lecture

your degree(s) as you are led into unknown

Ishmael Keith, Grand Treasurer; and H.H.

of the first degree. It has nothing to do with

territory in a Masonic facility, and “a desire of

White, Secretary.

holding office, grandiose titles, proficiency

knowledge and a sincere wish to be service-

awards, years served, or….who you know!

able to your fellow creatures,” for only by

Lodge for the State of Kansas was formed

This is why I believe the Masonic Slogan “On

this can one truly find out “What’s in it for

and ready to begin the work of Ancient

the Level” is so very true. All of those at-

Me”? (That is NOT a bad question!) And

Craft Masonry in Kansas.

tributes listed above are what helps make the

when that question is answered, seek how to

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand

legacy you will create and leave behind

share the fruits

for others to hopefully emulate. None

of your labor

HOME WARMINGS

of those, however, has anything to do

with those who

continued from page 46

with making you a Mason, hence, all Masons

follow him. One must agree to “cheerfully

are indeed equal! Now, what must one BE,

conform to all the ancient established usages

or be willing to DO in order to take the step

and customs of the Fraternity” as this makes

Today, KMH offers Assisted Living,

that makes one a Mason?

him “On the Level” with all who have come

short-term rehabilitation and 24-hour

and gone before him, even from a time when

skilled, long-term healthcare to 220 elders

fully, first of all one must be a man, able to

the memory of man fails. All this is what

on a 300,000 square foot, 15 acre, intercon-

act according to his own volition, and be

prepares a man to be deserving and qualified

nected campus. Our culture change to the

recommended by two, whom have trav-

to receive that which makes him a Mason.

“Household Model” provides a state-of-the-

In order to answer that question truth-

form the entire campus.

During the “operative years,” one can

art environment. Residents live together in

had a desire to become a Mason. Desiring

only imagine the scrutiny one would have

small households where they interact much

association with men with moral integrity,

had to pass through to have been accepted

like a typical American household.

who are unafraid to express a belief in God,

by those tough, strong operative Masons of

country and self, is revealing as to whom is

that era.

eled that way before. Then, one must have

your master…God or mammon (riches).

If you did not have all these attributes

Since its founding in 1896 as a home for orphans and elders, KMH has survived a scarlet fever outbreak, the devastating fire

Luke 16:17 states: “No servant can serve

before you became a Mason…examine

of 1916, the Great Depression, two World

two masters: for either he will hate the one,

yourself and see if your association has

Wars, rationing, multiple financial reces-

and love the other; or else he will hold to the

caused you to become that man fully

sions, and many other challenges. During

one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve

equipped to assume the greatest of all

its first 120 years, Kansas Masonic Home

God and mammon.” After having expressed

titles… “Brother.” If you have not, increase

has stood as a testament of brotherly love,

that desire by petitioning, one must have a

the time you spend associating with your

relief and truth, and served as a reminder to

trusting heart as you know not who these

brethren, and grow!

the importance of faith, hope and charity.

men are or what will happen in the course of

50 THE KANSAS MASON

Experience the “level!”

Our future is bright.

LODGE OF RESEARCH continued from page 27 Territorial Governor in 1885. Ross spent

victim of a wild flame of intolerance which

did happen. He was able to get friends posi-

the rest of his life in New Mexico and was

swept everything before it. He did his duty

tions in government. But that was the 19th

instrumental in setting up the public school

knowing that it meant his political death….

century norm. Was he the noble fighter or

system. Today, an elementary school in

It was a brave thing for Ross to do, but Ross

not? I would close with his own words:

Albuquerque bears his name.

did it. He acted for his conscience and with

“Conditions may, and are not unlikely to

a lofty patriotism, regardless of what he

arise, some day, when the exercise of the pow-

President would write in 1957: “In a lonely

knew must be the ruinous consequences to

er to impeach and remove the President may

grave, forgotten and unknown, lies the man

himself. He acted right.”

be quite as essential to the preservation of our

He might have been forgotten. A future

who saved a President, and who as a result

Ross spent the rest of his life fighting

political system as it threatened to become in

may well have preserved for ourselves and

for the rights of others. His opposition to

this instance destructive of that system. Should

our posterity constitutional government

slavery was constant and strong. He died in

that day ever come, it is to be hoped that the

in the United States. By the firmness and

Albuquerque, N.M., on May 8, 1907, and

remedy of impeachment, as established by the

courage of Senator Ross the country was

was buried in Fairview Cemetery.

Constitution, may be as patriotically, as fear-

saved from calamity greater than war, while

Today there is still controversy about

it consigned him to a political martyrdom,

why he voted the way he did. It has been

the most cruel in our history…Ross was the

said he did it for gains in patronage, which

lessly, and as unselfishly applied as it was on this occasion rejected.” – Edmund Ross 1868

FEATURE ARTICLE The First Kansas A.F.&F.M.

continued from page 23

that our ritual says “that it is the internal not

years when I was installed as the Master of

St. John’s Day and Prince Hall Americanism

external qualifications of a man that we most

Emporia Lodge, likewise I had only been

Day, and if you don’t, you may have to an-

revered,” but our Grand Lodges did not

a Prince Hall Mason for two years when

swer to the Grand Master. The Worshipful

recognize each other, quite possibly because

I was installed as the Master. The ritual is

Master of a Prince Hall Lodge is much more

of the color of our skins. During the past 13

very similar, although PHGL uses Lester’s

accountable for his lodge than in Kansas A.F.

years, I’ve had the opportunity to witness

Look to the East, which is more modern

& A.M., or least it seems that way.

some of the finest Masonic ritual work while

English unlike the Old English we use. I often

attending Prince Hall Grand Lodge, and I’ve

found myself opening St. John Lodge using

Masonic career was being in attendance

often said the Prince Hall Lodge of Sorrow is

a mixture of both rituals. This led to a very

during the joint dedication of the State Cap-

the most impressive Masonic ceremony I’ve

confused Senior Warden. As the Worship-

itol building by the Most Worshipful Grand

ever seen. I encourage every Kansas A.F. &

ful Master of a Prince Hall Lodge, you have

Lodge of Kansas and the Most Worshipful

A.M. Mason to attend a Prince Hall Lodge

many more duties; you are required to

Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas and its

of Sorrow when possible. They traditionally

attend all meetings called by the Grand Mas-

jurisdiction. I truly believe that as Masons,

open their Annual Communication on the

ter and you are required to give a report on

whether A.F. & A.M. or Prince Hall, working

Wednesday night with a Lodge of Sorrow.

your lodge. My first such meeting came only

together we can show the world it truly is

two weeks after I was installed and let’s just

not the color of your skin. It is the internal

poria Lodge No. 12 and St. John Lodge No.

say it wasn’t pretty. I hadn’t been informed

qualifications of a man that define him.

14, I experienced some definite compari-

that I needed to be prepared to provide a

Together, as Masons, we can set the path

sons. Both times I had no idea what I was

report on the state of the lodge. You are

that may one day lead to a United Country,

doing! I had only been a Mason for three

required to attend all district meetings,

because all lives matter!!

Serving as the Worshipful Master of Em-

Definitely one of the highlights of my

FALL 2016 51

KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION DIRECTORY Jon McConnell

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The Kansas Masonic Foundation Directory is a great way to connect with your Fraternal Brothers on a professional level or to let Brothers know your business is here to help.

Call the Kansas Masonic Foundation at (785) 357-7646 to get your business advertisement in future issues.

LISTING GOODS AND SERVICES FROM YOUR FELLOW BROTHERS THROUGHOUT KANSAS

EVENT CALENDAR July 26-30 Kansas Masonic All-State Emporia Marching Band Camp July 30 Shrine Bowl Emporia

August 14 All Masonic Family Day Kansas City September 1 Kansas Masonic Lodge Newsletter Submission Deadline

September 10 Oak Tree Degree Little River September 15-18 Five State Reunion AF&AM Amarillo, TX

*Check the Grand Lodge of Kansas Master Events Schedule on the Grand Lodge Website for Grand Master Visits Near You.

52 THE KANSAS MASON

September 24 Silverdale Quarry Degree Silverdale October 8 Chance To Advance (C2A) Meeting Topeka November 4-5 6th Annual Leadership Academy Topeka