Illinois Freemasonry Magazine - Summer 2021

Together

Table Of Contents

A Letter From Our Grand Master

By Bro. Stephen F. Oakley, M.W. Grand Master

IMCAP’S New Grant Program for Children with Specialized Learning Needs

By Enrique J. Unanue, MSA, 33rd

Masonic Teachers: Our Faithful Friends and Guides

By R.W. Bro. Wayne Spooner

Changes for Masonic Survival and Thriving

By R.W. Bro. John Loayza Grand Chancellor

Academic Bowl

By Bro. Dale Thayer, Academic Bowl Chairman

Dedicated Service to Our Grand Lodge

By Bro. Joseph Ferrell Junior Grand Warden

Masonic Youth: Together Again

By W.B. Mark Schmidt

20 26 30 33 36

03 04 22 08 10 12 14 16

IMOS: Illinois Masonic Outreach Services

By Jennifer Martin

Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program

By Greg Hall

Together Again But Not Complete

By R.W. Bro. Edward Walker

3rd Quarter Anniversaries

Annual Communication News

Latest Lodge News

By Bro. Grant W. Cole

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Stephen Oakley, M.W. Grand Master

Enrique J. Unanue, MSA 33rd

John Loayza, Grand Chancellor

Dale Thayer, Academic Bowl Chairman

Wayne Spooner, Membership Chairman

Joseph Ferrell, Junior Grand Warden

EDITOR

Edward

Walker, R.W.B.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mark Schmidt,

W.B.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jennifer Woods

Illinois Freemasonry (ISSN 1091-2258, USPS 014656) is published February, May , August and November by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703; main phone (217) 529-8900. Periodical postage paid at Springfield, IL and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ILLINOIS FREEMASONRY, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703. Printed in the U.S.A. Permission to reprint articles appearing in this publication will be granted to recognized Masonic publications. Such permission can be requested by writing to the Grand Secretary, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703: by faxing to 217-529-0242: or by email at GS@ilmason.org

How Good It Is For Brethren To Dwell Together In Unity

Truer words have never been spoken. As we begin meeting in person again, I see excitement and zeal in the faces of those who are traveling and doing the work of Freemasonry.

It is amazing how fast my calendar filled up. We went from zero to 100 in sixty seconds. It is almost as if we never experienced the last year and a half, but we did and many of those who were with us then are gone today. I hope we take their enthusiasm for our fraternity and pay it forward.

The Grand Lodge Officers have returned to doing Dedications and traveling around the State for various meetings and celebrations along with planning for the Grand Master Festivals in September and Grand Lodge in October. Brethren, please mark your calendars for September 18th and 25th for the Grand Master’s Festivals and October 8th and 9th for our Grand Lodge Session.

We will once again travel to Springfield to do the business of our Grand Lodge and to see old friends and hopefully make some new ones and I hope to see you all.

On a personal note, I want to thank all of you for allowing me to serve our Great Fraternity as your Grand Master. I became a Master Mason in August 1986 and had no idea of where that road would lead me, but here just 35 short years later I will be stepping down from serving as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois. I have many to thank, but I will only mention a few,

First and foremost, my wife Deborah who has supported me in every road I have ventured down.

MASTER

To Jan Miller and all of the office staff for all that you do to support our Great Fraternity and to all those who run our charities your efforts are most appreciated.

To my Deputy Grand Master Mike Jackson and all of the Grand Lodge Officers for their support and assistance. Then to Gary Fisher who has served as my Administrative Assistant for the past two years and then to MWPGM John Louden who gave me my first Grand Lodge appointment as DDGM of the 5th Southern District, MWPGM Noel Dicks who appointed me as the Southern Area Deputy Grand Master and MWPGM Richard Swaney who appointed me as the Jr. Grand Deacon, but these men were only the tip of the iceberg because without the support and help from so many of you I would not have made it. For all the Grand Master’s I served and for all of the Grand Lodge Officers who lifted me up and inspired me I say thank you. But my real heroes are you the everyday Masons, the guys who give of yourself freely to manage our lodges, to do our degree work and to serve our communities, you are Masonry. By your example, each new generation of Masons are inspired to rise to the needs of our fellow Masons and of our communities. To all of you that serve on our committees, without your assistance we could not operate.

As we move out of pandemic mode, we will all need to remember why we went to lodge and why we should return to lodge. This is a Fraternity based on fellowship, a hand shake, a pat on the back and genuine concern for our fellow man. Only through personal contact do we achieve the fraternalism that makes us what we are.

Again, I thank you all,

Steve

Stephen F. Oakley Grand Master Grand Lodge of Illinois

IMCAP’S New Grant Program For Children With Specialized Learning Needs

By Enrique J. Unanue

The Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program (IMCAP) recognizes and understands the dedication our Masonic Lodges have for children in their local communities. Part of IMCAP’s vision is to partner with Lodges in upholding their Masonic values of being of service to children and families in need in their communities.

As a member of the IMCAP Board of Managers, I have become very aware of the many children needing to supplement their learning skills through exposure to special training and special education programs. It is my personal feeling as a parent and a member of IMCAP that we should, as Masons, utilize our resources to empower our children to reach their maximum potential.

With that in mind I worked with my fellow board members to help develop a new program that will supplement and enhance with specialized learning assistance grants for children in our communities. With the full support of our Grand Lodge Board of Directors, on July 1, 2021, we initiated a new lodge-based program designed to address the challenges faced by children with learning disabilities through our new Children’s Specialized Learning Grant.

Enrique with his grandson.

We should utilize our resources to empower our children to reach their maximum potential.”

The Specialized Learning Grant is a community wide program providing children with learning disabilities with the opportunity to apply for learning grants. Their parent or guardian may apply for those grants to our Masonic Lodges (Grants of up to $5000 per year per child) to cover educational learning needs related to the child’s learning challenges such as enrolling in a specific afterschool program or purchasing software. The application is available on the IMCAP’s website.

An Illinois Masonic Lodge may refer a child with a learning disability from their community to apply for the Specialized Learning Grant. The most important solution is for the Lodges to Sponsor a child’s Specialized Learning Grant application by:

1. Communicating with the parents about the child’s learning needs.

2. Voting to approve Sponsoring the child’s application

3. Writing a Sponsorship Letter that includes:

a. Vote taken by Lodge to sponsor the child for the Learning Grant.

b. Name of the child and his/her date of birth.

c. How the child would benefit from receiving a Learning Grant.

4. The letter can be written by the Master or the Secretary of the lodge.

5. The letter must be sent to IMCAP via email, fax, or mail.

The completed Specialized Learning Grant application will then be reviewed and processed by IMCAP, and the Board of Managers (BOM) will determine funding approval during our monthly meetings. The BOM will set the total amount of funds available per fiscal year for grants. At the time the allocated funds are used, the program will be closed to applications until the next fiscal year.

The eligibility requirements are as follows:

1. Child must be attending high school or lower grades.

2. Must reside in the State of Illinois.

3. No Masonic family connection is required to apply.

4. The grant application must be endorsed and submitted by an Illinois Masonic lodge.

5. The child’s family must demonstrate financial need.

6. Evidence of a learning disability must be provided to qualify.

7. The following learning disabilities are eligible:

• Dyslexia

• Dyscalculia

• Dysgraphia

• Scotopic Sensitivity

• Speech Language Disability

• Working Memory Deficit

• Long-Term Memory Deficit

• Executive Functioning Deficit

• Pervasive Developmental Delay

• Processing Speed Disorder

• Auditory Processing Disorder

• Sensory Integration Disorder

• Visual Perception Disability

• Non-Verbal Learning Disability

• Memory Recall Deficit

• Ocular Motor Deficits

• Developmental Coordination Disorder

Grant details, scope, application, and assistance determination process information is available by contacting our IMCAP Director, Gale Kilbury at the Grand Lodge Offices or go to IMCAP.org.

It is our hope that this program is able to make a difference in the lives of these children with special needs.

Enrique J. Unanue, MSA, 33rd

R.W.B.

Masonic Teachers

Our Faithful Friends and Guides

By Wayne Spooner

For centuries and across the globe, Freemasonry has been a source of education and enlightenment for good men who share our Masonic Values. Our ancient and honorable fraternity has preserved and passed along many truths which have been called mysteries at varying times throughout the ages. The trust developed amongst the Brethren, which is rooted in our unique degree experiences, is the foundation for the active transference of this time-honored knowledge and wisdom. Literally from mouth to ear, the valued lessons of our brotherhood have been transmitted.

That lesson is punctuated by a powerful symbol embodied in the role played by one of the Lodge Officers during the ceremony. In short, the lesson is that to successfully acquire knowledge and learning on your personal Masonic Journey of Self-Improvement, “you do not travel alone, you have a faithful friend and guide.” That symbol is one of the most powerful in Freemasonry. It highlights the critical need for a companion to guide you through the darkness and assist you with gaining the Light of Knowledge. Fundamentally, to personally learn, develop and grow, a Brother needs assistance from those “who have gone this way before you.” These are the knowledgeable and humble men who are ready and willing to pay it forward to extend a helping and guiding hand.

Also, the unique educational journey of every Brother begins similarly. That life-altering act was simply to ask about the fraternity. Thus, communicating and acknowledging his role as a student and desire to learn. Consciously realized or not, that critical act opened the mind of every Brother to the Light or insights that Freemasonry can provide to enhance his life. Let’s be clear, Freemasonry does not change a Brother; every Brother chooses to change himself — based upon the exposure to several valuable and unique Masonic Membership Experiences enjoyed by active Freemasons (e.g. fellowship, brotherly love and affection, learning, personal development, service to mankind, teaching others, etc.).

During a Freemason’s initiatory degree experience, he learns the importance of being a student and the goal of self-improvement.

Further, a debate can sometimes arise regarding an age-old question — does the teacher pick the student or does the student pick the teacher? Alas, if true personal change is sought by the student, then the answer is clear; the student must choose the teacher — someone whom he grants the permission and ability to influence and guide him. The teacher’s role is to assess the readiness and genuine capabilities of the student to achieve success on the learning journey ahead. Within our fraternity, it is well known that “when the student is ready, the master will appear.”

As working Master Masons, we embrace the duality of being both students and teachers. Remembering that we are students helps to keep us humble and approachable, no matter how tenured and knowledgeable we become regarding Freemasonry. That humility along with a demonstrated willingness to help others learn are very attractive to our Brethren who

You do not travel alone, you have a faithful friend and guide.”

are seeking teachers to guide them. By the way, when you help a Brother on his learning journey, you gain valuable insights as well. Why? Because the path that he takes to success may traverse topics or “intellectual terrain” that you, as the teacher or guide, have not explored or thought about in the same manner.

Our Masonic Teachers, who are esteemed Brethren within our Speculative Craft of Builders, are revered for their abilities both as true Master Architects of themselves and trusted advisors. These Masonic Teachers serve faithfully to pass along our mysteries and timeless wisdom. They assist and inspire good men of all ages to step forward to attain knowledge, personal growth and development, usefulness and mastery. They help a Brother transform what may seem impossible into something possible through personalized instruction, listening and coaching. How does that really happen? A trusted friend and guide shows the way, helps the Brother recognize his progress, gives him positive encouragement, and provides the detailed feedback needed to help him attain greater and greater success.

Within Illinois Freemasonry, we have three specific roles that are designated for Brethren who choose to serve as cherished Masonic Teachers — Lodge Intenders, Grand Lecturers and Certified Lodge Instructors. These are workmen who gain their Masonic wages from helping the Brethren excel at learning the history, philosophy, fraternal operations, and Standard Ritual Work along with other treasured ceremonies and practices of our ancient and honorable fraternity. A Grand Lecturer once mentioned that the greatest satisfactions that he personally achieves are helping Lodge Officers learn and proficiently execute our Standard Ritual Work and hearing that one of his students earned a new teaching commission as a Grand Lecturer or Certified Lodge Instructor. Look well to the valuable and devoted Masonic Teachers in your life. Lastly, strive to be a well-informed “faithful friend and guide” and positive contributor to the Brethren in your Lodge, District and Area.

Our Masonic Teachers, who are esteemed Brethren within our Speculative Craft of Builders, are revered for their abilities both as true Master Architects of themselves and trusted advisors.”

R.W. Brother Wayne Spooner, Grand Lodge Membership Committee Chairman

Changes For Masonic Survival & Thriving

By John Loayza

Progress in any endeavor requires change that consists of a variety of challenges and opportunities. Successful organizations and leaders need to adapt to the constant changing world and will determine if an organization will be surviving or thriving in the future. Therefore, what was a successful method of doing things that worked in the past, may not necessarily be appropriate for what is needed today.

Several executive research papers have been written about three major factors that contribute to success. Briefly, those factors include:

1- Focusing on the big picture.

2- Expectation of a so-so type of moment.

3- Attention/Concentration on a subject or methods of striving for success over time.

Due to a changing environment of uncertainty, the above factors are even more important in our fraternal activities. Thus, we need to look for ways of adapting to change in a smooth and continuous

way, in order to survive and thrive. We should consider the following factors:

1- Remain Involved-All our work as leaders contribute to a common good. When we oppose change, important connections and communications lines are disrupted or disappear. What we need to do is to refocus and think of excellence by asking ourselves if others who are looking at our actions, leadership, and activities believe that they are excellent.

2- Watching the Big Picture-Our actions are more than just our own lodge, because we should be looking at how change is occurring at all levels. Consider the aging of our lodges, how technology is improving our regular lives and Freemasonry, budgets are becoming more important due to fewer members and they are tighter. Potential candidates are now better informed and more involved than every before. Therefore, we have to be watchful on how changes are affecting Freemasonry, and in our normal lives. I.E., remain active

in

all types

of organizations, not just our own individual lodge. Moreover, any long-term goals will directly influence how we interpret what we see happening around us.

3- Listening and Talking-Successful leaders will be better able to interpret events around us if we remain in contact with others about what is happening. I.E., this refers to talking with others about what we are seeing, and then seeking out and considering their observations and information. Furthermore, we should be visiting other lodges and learn how any changes are affecting their lives and how they resolve challenges or changes with their respective successful programs. All too often, we see some leaders doing considerable talking and hearing but not really listening carefully to what is being said. Listening versus hearing is an essential factor.

4- Becoming Valuable-Solving challenges/problems is part of every leader’s life. Since changes bring new challenges/problems, leaders must dedicate themselves to becoming part of the solutions. Thus, knowing our strengths and weaknesses will help us to adapt to changes whenever needed.

Furthermore, leaders should try to apply a business method called SWOT (Strength and Weakness comparisons with Opportunities and Threats) that

appear with any or all changes. Once changes and all factors are identified, successful leaders can capitalize on leadership strengths, as well as what’s needed to correct any weaknesses while taking advantage of all opportunities and minimizing all threats.

5- Flexibility-Successful leaders need to look for ways to blend any changes or innovations into their lives. It’s a way of establishing new traditions or systems within a lodge. Although it’s essential to maintain efficiency and effectiveness, being flexible permits us to blend with the changes rather than being overwhelmed by them.

6- Learning Through Personal Networks-Personal networks are sounding boards. They have within themselves individuals or groups that are most likely experiencing or have experienced similar changes. Therefore, current leaders can learn from their personal networks so the methods that the current leaders use will determine how to approach change and its effects on them.

We can work to accommodate changes to survive and thrive or be overwhelmed by changes and have a business-as-usual lodge and/or attitude which eventually destroys itself from within. The choice is yours alone brethren.

R.W. Brother John Loayza, Grand Chancellor

ACADEMIC BOWL

Together Again for 2022 Tournament

By Dale Thayer

Since we have had a one-year hiatus due to Covid, we have a tremendous amount of work ahead of us to get this program re-started and running smoothly once again. This is more work than the committee alone can do. However, my Brothers, if we all work together again our goal will be accomplished.

Please mark the below two dates on your Lodge calendars AND on your personal calendars:

Sectional Tournaments –Saturday, February 19, 2022

State Tournament –Saturday, March 5, 2022

The Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl Committee has their annual committee meeting scheduled for July 24th – our first in-person meeting since Covid separated all of us. It will be great to meet again in person. The committee has a larger work-load this year to get this program restarted.

All Lodges will receive the tournament information and sponsoring instructions during the last week in August. This information will be transmitted from the Grand Lodge office via email to the Lodge Secretaries and Worshipful Masters. So, please print the information and take to your first stated meeting in September to be read under communications.

All Illinois high schools will receive the tournament information and registration instructions in early September – starting the day after Labor Day. This information will be transmitted to the high school scholastic bowl coaches via email from Dale Thayer, Tournament Director. With over 700 schools to notify, this process takes about 2 weeks because each school must be notified separately.

Due to our one-year hiatus creating a larger workload for the committee, and with our goal of restarting the tournament as smoothly as possible and getting as many schools as possible to compete, we will be asking the Lodges for more assistance in getting schools to register for competition. So, in late September, each Lodge should start contacting the school(s) they normally sponsor. There is no need or reason to wait until December or January to contact the schools. Activities must get placed on the school’s calendar, and that needs to be done very early in the school year. The contact method that works the best is in-person contact with the high school scholastic bowl coach. In-person contact almost always works better than phone calls or emails.

It will be great to be together again with the scholastic bowl teams, parents, and Lodge members at the tournament sites.

Questions or comments about the Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl should be submitted to Dale Thayer, Chairman, via email at thayerdale@mchsi.com or by telephone at 815-441-3070.

Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl

Providing Positive Recognition for Academic Excellence

R.W. Brother Dale Thayer, Chairman, Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl

Dedicated

Service to Our Grand Lodge

My name is Right Worshipful Brother Joseph B. Ferrell, currently serving our Grand Lodge as Junior Grand Warden of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois. I was elected to that office in October 2019. As Junior Grand Warden, I am responsible for leading several projects and initiatives to advance the successful operations of our grand jurisdiction. Having been raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in March 2008, I have enjoyed an active Masonic journey spanning more than 13 years of dedication and support for our ancient and honorable fraternity.

Everyone has an idea on how their future life would look like. I never envisioned being a Mason or really knew much of its history or purpose. I was visiting with some friends at an American Legion function and our conversation took a turn to Masonry. My friends gave the typical “elevator” speech on the benefits of Masonry and that really hit home. I took to heart what they said and believed in what Masonry had to offer and submitted my petition for initiation.

Azure La Grange Lodge No. 770 in Western Springs, IL is my mother Lodge. Before my other lodges merged, I served as Worshipful Master (leader) in 2012 of La Grange Lodge No. 770 and Worshipful Master in 2013 of Azure Lodge No. 1153. I have also served as Treasurer on multiple occasions. I have had the honor being chosen as an Honorary member of several Lodges in Illinois. I would have been happy to just sit on the sidelines and help wherever needed as I had previously been doing. RWB Herb Lindberg was preparing to step down as our District Deputy Grand Master and thought I would make an ideal replacement. Working closely with the brethren and Lodges in the 10th Northeastern Masonic District in the state, I then served as the District Deputy Grand Master from 2013 to 2015.

For several years, I served as a special assistant to the Northeastern Area Deputy Grand Master and helped advance priority projects and activities of the Northeastern Area District Deputy Grand Masters Association, especially focusing on fundraising and

providing scholarships to students.

My first Grand Lodge officer appointment occurred in October 2015 as the Junior Grand Deacon. When asked what made him apply for this entry-level position, Joe replied “I would have been happy with just serving as an Appointed Grand Line Officer. I worried about not being selected for the Junior Grand Deacon position but submitted my application, nevertheless. Thank goodness I was appointed on my first try.” This started the progression up the Grand Line and was appointed as Senior Grand Deacon in 2017.

I was privileged to serve on the Illinois Masonic Children’s Homes Board of Managers and lent my talents to assist with the effective transition of this long-time charitable program for Illinois Freemasonry into the new Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program (IMCAP). I have been recognized for forward thinking and effective use of digital communication tools while serving on the Grand Lodge Communications, Marketing and Branding Committee. This important committee has partnered with several Masonic leaders, Brothers, and supporters of the fraternity to create and promote a more consistent, engaging, and impactful message about Illinois Freemasonry.

I have been an active member and supporter of many Appendant Masonic Bodies in the Chicagoland area. I hold memberships in the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Chicago, Medinah Shrine (Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine), West Suburban York Rite Bodies including serving as Secretary/Recorder in 2015, St. John’s Conclave Red Cross of Constantine, and El Jaala Grotto in Des Plaines, IL.

Throughout my professional career, my focus was on growing my business skills and talents in the auto, manufacturing, and financial services industries. In a span of six years, I was a partner in two separate auto dealerships including managing the day-to-day operations. Additionally, I learned from this unique

experience by traveling to auto auction events internationally and purchasing vehicle inventory. My leadership and business acumen grew from the six years spent as an executive in a manufacturing company primarily leading large teams focused on product fabrication, assembly operations, quality control and getting the completed products to customers on time. For the last 14 years, I have focused on the financial services industry operating as a successful independent Day Trader. With strong organizational skills and proven ability to collaborate well with others, I continue to achieve positive results for myself and our Masonic Fraternity.

Among my closest friends, I am known as an avid lover of food, and therefore, a ready partner for a journey to a

restaurant for good eats and fellowship. Also, I enjoy traveling both domestically and internationally including places where I can use my qualifications as a Certified Scuba Diver. As an avid sports fan, I enjoy following the progress of many teams and the exceptional skills of its athletes. Do not read that last point as “couch potato”. I do get out and enjoy the fresh air especially the challenge of horseback riding. Speaking of getting fresh air, I have been known to jump out of perfectly well-operating airplanes to raise awareness about and support for our Illinois Masonic Charities.

R.W. Brother Joseph Ferrell, Junior Grand Warden

R.W. Brother Edward Walker, Editor

I believed in what Masonry had to offer.”

Together AgainYouthMasonic

By Mark Schmidt

After a year of isolation, Zoom meetings, social distancing and public health precautions, members of Illinois’ Masonic youth orders are coming together again with a renewed sense of excitement and commitment to building their organizations. During the summer months, Illinois DeMolay, Job’s Daughters and Rainbow all gathered for statewide meetings to plan and build for the future.

Newly installed DeMolay State Master Councilor Alex Sturgis described the challenge in this way: “We are coming out of a hard patch, but I am convinced that we can really shine.” Sturgis said that during the first phase of the pandemic, DeMolay limited itself to online meetings. However, as things moved forward, chapters across Illinois were encouraged to gather outside and in socially distanced settings to maintain important personal contact among the members. “We focused on athletics and other ways in which we could gather outdoors.”

Illinois DeMolay held its Annual Conclave July 24-25 at Eureka College. While the schedule was a bit abbreviated compared to previous years, Sturgis hopes that it was the latest step on the return to normal.

Sturgis has chosen the popular Nickelodeon TV show “Avatar: The Last Airbender” as his theme for the year. The series focuses on four elements: water, earth, fire, and air. The State Master Councilor has developed a series of what he calls Elemental Challenges, which encourage local chapters to become more active, increase membership, learn the ritual of the order, and ensure that all members have Obligation Cards. “We’re going to get Illinois DeMolay back on its feet,” he noted.

Sky Lafary, Grand Worthy Advisor of Illinois Rainbow, was installed during that group’s Grand Assembly in Springfield in early July. “It is time for Illinois Rainbow to dream big,” Lafary said. She has chosen “Dreams Determine Destiny” as her theme for the year. Lafary, who lives in Bushnell,

is a student at Western Illinois University.

One big change for Illinois Rainbow impacts the annual Rainbow Leadership Camp. After canceling the camp in its entirety in 2020, the organization has shifted to a virtual leadership camp held via Zoom in 2021. “The new format really helps us reach more girls,” Lafary noted. “Every member of Rainbow is invited to take part, as well as prospective members. Participant kits for projects, games and other activities were sent to each Assembly. It was a lot of fun!”

Service is always an important part of the life of all Rainbow members. Lafary has chosen St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as her Grand Charity for 2021-2022. Despite the pandemic, members of Rainbow continue to support each Grand Charity, raising more than $10,000 for Backstoppers, a

nonprofit helping the families of first responders killed in the line of duty. Backstoppers was the Grand Charity of Junior Past Grand Worthy Advisor Jillian Jennings.

In June, Illinois Job’s Daughters held its annual Grand Bethel in Bloomington. Natasha Sparks of Belleville was installed as Grand Bethel Honored Queen. Sparks is a 2021 graduate of Troy Triad High School. She is a dual member of Bethel 24 in Belleville and Bethel 96 in Chillicothe.

The new GBHQ is expecting “super” things from Job’s Daughters in the year to come. She has chosen a superhero theme for her year, along with the motto “Be Your Own Hero”. “Our members have been heroes for more than a year as they kept things going through the pandemic. I am looking for great things from Job’s Daughters in the year to come.”

Sky Lafary, Grand Worthy Advisor of Illinois Rainbow, Alex Sturgis, State Master Councilor of DeMolay and Natasha Sparks, Grand Bethel Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters Illinois are shown at the recent Grand Assembly session in Springfield.

A lover of animals, Natasha has chosen the Humane Society as her Grand Charity for the coming year. After a year’s absence, the girls were excited to gather for the Order’s annual Job A Rama. While camping was not on the agenda due to continuing COVID restrictions, members enjoyed a day of crafts, fun activities, learning and a fight with silly string!

Grand Guardian Margo Nelson reports that two Illinois members are among those competing online for Miss International Job’s Daughters, and that her members are excited to resume traveling as installations are on the calendar for local Bethels.

WB Mark Schmidt Associate Editor

Hello All! I’m Jennifer Martin, the new Director of IMOS (Talia Dean’s replacement). It is so nice to greet you all and I am looking forward to meeting you in person someday as well! I wanted to say hello and share a little bit about myself. I have a background of over ten years in human services with a master’s degree in human services along with a graduate certificate in executive coaching. I also spent 16 years at a phone company with ten of those years in engineering working

with outside plant technicians, construction managers, and engineers throughout the State of Illinois. I have always enjoyed the opportunity to work with people to try to make a difference. I am so excited to be working for your amazing fraternity that does so much to support each other.

I work with a very dedicated Board of Managers that have been so wonderful to work with along with our remarkable Board Chairman, Ronald Ehemann. Each day I spend here is a blessing!

We have a strong team in IMOS. Ralph Hunt recently started as the new Assistant Director. He brings great energy and many years of experience in human services. Many of you may already know IMOS two amazing case workers, Jen Labbato and Sue Rentsch. They have a strong devotion to IMOS and have been so helpful in my transition. Thank you to them for all that they do in assisting others and for bringing me up to speed! My plan for the future is to keep spreading the word about IMOS and to continue to grow the IMOS program. Outreach is so important, and I really appreciate the referrals I have received from you. Please keep spreading the word to others that IMOS is here for them! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call, write, or email me.

Our former Director sends along the following message of thanks and appreciation: “Greetings! After 10 years serving in the role as the IMOS Director, my tenure has come to an end. For the past decade, it has been my greatest honor to serve in this role for the masonic fraternity, its members, widows, and family. While this may be "goodbye" for now; I will cherish the memories that I have made and the people I have met forever. IMOS is such a special program and will always hold a special place in my heart. Under the leadership of our amazing Board Chairman, Ronald Ehemann, I have the utmost confidence that the IMOS mission will stay alive and well - and continue in "making connections and impacting lives". Brethren - thank you for making me a part of your "Masonic family"; I will miss you all and wish nothing but the best for everyone in health and happiness. Until we meet again! Talia.”

Jennifer Martin

Director, Illinois Masonic Outreach Services

Grand Lodge of Illinois 2866 Via Verde Springfield, IL 62703

Phone: 217.529.8900 ext. 212

Fax: 217.529.0242

outreach@ilmason.org

We have a strong team in IMOS.”

ILLINOIS MASONIC CHILDREN’S ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Helping Achieve Their Children

By Greg Hall

The Mission of IMCAP is to support children and young adults in need with developmental, social, financial, and educational means, encouraging them to achieve their goals, maintain high ambitions and seek opportunities as they grow and mature into future leaders of our society. The Vision of IMCAP is to serve the children and young adults of our Illinois Masonic Family, leading them towards a brighter future through support, engagement, and empowerment.

One never knows when life can make an unexpected detour from even the most well laid plans. As a Mason and father to three teenage girls, it is an understatement to say how important this program is in their development into productive members of society.

Let me introduce myself. My name is Greg Hall, currently Junior Warden in Batavia Lodge No. 404. My wife, Jill, and I, are parents to those three teenage girls. Like typical teenagers they are participants in various activities in

and after school including marching band, show choir, and Winter Guard, the last being an organized sport that includes the use of flags, props, and dance to compete against other schools. They are also involved in our church youth groups, the children’s nursery, and mission trips to make homes warmer, drier, and safer in the Appalachian Mountains, everything that is required to be well rounded individuals. Now imagine the dismay of not having that opportunity to give them those tools they need and enjoy.

My story begins almost two years ago when I suffered a catastrophic injury that left me unable to work. The immediate fear was how to keep going, how to keep my family together. Did I have enough planning and safety nets in place to make sure that we do not lose everything? Fortunately, I was able to secure our home, and make sure that bills were covered. What we did not have was the means to continue to support my daughters in their education and extracurricular needs. This was a fear

that devastated my wife and I as we knew the value of well-rounded experiences as well as our daughters mental health during these trying times, including during the pandemic when everything was up in the air.

In August of that year, a devastating injury, which meant loss of work, presented that unexpected detour. Though initially I had a short-term disability, the doctors soon concluded that my life, and that of my family would never be the same. Mounting bills from the hospital, doctors, physical therapy and so on were quickly mounting. Coupled with the loss of my salary it soon became apparent that the girls’ participation in their beloved activities would be disrupted. On top of that Christmas was right around the corner. Despair was setting in.

One never knows when life can make an unexpected detour from even the most well laid plans.”

But my family belongs to the highest of fraternal organizations, a Brotherhood that literally takes an oath based on helping our fellow Masons and their families. I had attended Grand Lodge before and recalled hearing about a charity called IMCAP, Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program, but did not understand how it worked. I went on the Grand Lodge website and read up on how they help. I just could not bring myself to ask for help. I did not feel worthy and thought that they would make me admit my mistakes that got our family into this situation. I was afraid of failure. As I went deeper into despair and the realization that all other avenues were exhausted, I went back to our Grand Lodge website and prayed. I sat there, terrified to start the application, when a sense of calm came over me. I was at the bottom; my girls were not able to move forward with their activities and I realized I had been thinking only about my feelings and how I would be perceived. Then I remembered what it is like to be around Masons and how we treat our Brothers with respect. I remember

thinking, “What am I worried about the most?” And it turned out the answer was my family. At that moment asking for help was easy. I filled out the application and sent it into IMCAP. The response was immediate. It was professional. And most important it was compassionate. The team at IMCAP understood. They were eager to help. They coordinated with our school district, and they made my girls’ future happen. In the end the roadblock was not the paperwork or the scrutiny. The roadblock was my inability to ask for help. When I did, IMCAP was there to provide. They were our Christmas Angels during the holiday season.

We belong to an organization that offers many opportunities to its members, especially in times of need, and is designed to make good men better. Sometimes asking for help is exactly what is needed to make one a better man, father, Mason. Myself and my family will always be grateful for the support that IMCAP provided and that is because of the oath we all took as Masons. God blesses.

Through the partnership with Gale and her IMCAP team my daughters continued their music education with Cat and Kristen in orchestra and my third daughter Kendall in band. IMCAP aided with tutoring when the struggles of remote learning during the pandemic affected one of my daughters. These are things that cannot be overlooked during their development and with the help of IMCAP those needs were met during this time of constraint.

The Illinois Masonic Children Assistance Program is designed to allow children of Masons to have a well-rounded upbringing by guaranteeing a whole child. Whole child means more than putting food on the table or helping with clothes, although very much needed. It also includes opportunities to assist in education and extracurricular activities. When called upon, IMCAP programs guarantee that a child of a Mason continues to flourish in their development as a whole child during times of uncertainty. Fulfilling an obligation that all Masons take when joining our fraternal organization.

IMCAP met that obligation with my daughters by providing many opportunities for them to seamlessly carry on with their lives even though things were not the same at home. IMCAP provided the necessary funds to pay for continuing their extracurricular activities to pay fees. This allowed my oldest to continue her passion of Show Choir, which involves singing and dancing, something she did for four years during high school. IMCAP assisted in keeping Kendall and Kristen in both Color Guard and Winter Guard, organized sports in high school that involve dance and competitions. From the Greg Hall Family, thank you Gale and IMCAP.

Brother Greg Hall, Junior Warden, Batavia Lodge No. 404

The roadblock was my inability to ask for help. When I did, IMCAP was there to provide.”

Togetheragain but Not Complete

By Ed Walker

Well done, my good and faithful Servant, well done. These few words are included in the Masonic Funeral Service that Illinois Lodges do for their departed Brothers. When a Mason lays down his working tools, funeral honors are given as we say goodbye to our cherished friend and Brother.

Illinois Lodges are finally together again in ritual, fellowship, and community involvement. But two pieces of that puzzle are missing as we recently lost two distinguished Masons, two outstanding Past Grand Masters. One was Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Noel C. Dicks and the other was Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Michael Bruce Manning of Arizona and a dual member of Mound Lodge No. 122 in Taylorville, Illinois.

Reprinted with permission from the Grand Lodge of Illinois is the obituary for Brother Dicks, followed by the obituary of Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Michael Manning, reprinted with permission from the Grand Lodge of Arizona.

Well done, my good and faithful Servant, well done.”

MWB NOEL CHARLES DICKS

Noel Charles Dicks was born September 27,1929 in Broadlands, Illinois, the son of Kenneth and Mary Logan Dicks. He attended public schools in Broadlands and Arthur, Illinois and graduated from the University of Illinois College of Pharmacy in May 1952.

In November 1952 he entered the United States Army being trained as a combat engineer. In March 1953, he was transferred to Brooke Army Hospital in San Antonio, Texas as a pharmacist remaining there until he was discharged from active duty in November 1954. At this time, he accepted employment as a Registered Pharmacist in a retail pharmacy in Decatur, Illinois.

On September 22, 1957, Noel was united in marriage with Iris Jeanne Lape of rural St. Peter, Illinois. She is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and was teaching Home Economics in Moweaqua, Illinois at the time. They were residents of Decatur, Illinois until January 1960 when Noel purchased an existing pharmacy in Arthur, Illinois. He was the sole owner of Dicks Pharmacy until he retired in 1995. Iris and Noel have been very active in the Arthur United Methodist Church

as well as all school and community organizations and activities of Arthur. They have two sons, Bruce and Mark and are grandparents of Emily, Sam, Michelle, and Jack.

The Masonic life of Brother Dicks began on March 9, 1955, when he was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Arthur Lodge No. 825 by a slate of officers composed entirely of Grand Lecturers, including his Father and Uncle Carl. He served Arthur Lodge No. 825 as Worshipful Master in 1959 and 1993. He has also served the Lodge as Secretary and Treasurer.

Brother Dicks was commissioned as a Grand Lecturer in 1984. As his Masonic journey continued he served the fraternity as a Grand Lodge Instructor (M.W.G.M. Inglis), Member of the Board of Grand Examiners (M.W.G.M. Elliott), Secretary of the Board of Managers of the Illinois Masonic Home (M.W.G.M. Ford), Grand Master of the Illini District Grand Lodge (M.W.G.M. James Miller), Assistant Eastern Area Deputy Grand Master (M.W.G.M.) Louden), Member of the Board of Grand Examiners (M.W.G.M. Louden), Secretary of the Board of Grand

Examiners (M.W.G.M. Grisham) and Chairman of the Board of Grand Examiners (M.W.G.M. Burr). In October of 2000 Brother Dicks was elected as Junior Grand Warden and advanced through the Grand Lodge line of officers being elected as Grand Master of Masons of Illinois in October 2005 and re-elected in October 2006. Most Worshipful Brother Dicks completed his term as Grand Master of Masons of Illinois on October 6, 2007. He served on the Grand Lodge Insurance Committee and Foreign Jurisdictions Committee after his term as Grand Master. M.W. Bro. Dicks had also served as Grand Representative to Norway 1990-1995 and Grand Representative to Arizona 2001-2007.

Noel C. Dicks was a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Bodies of the Valley of Danville, Illinois. He was chairman of the Ancient Craft Degree Team for ten years and served as Commander-in-Chief of Danville Consistory and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Valley of Danville in 2000-2001. He received the Honorary Thirty Third degree in 1991. He is a member of the York Rite Bodies of Decatur Chapter No. 16, Macon Chapter No. 21, and Beaumanoir Commandery No. 9 all of Decatur,

Illinois. He belongs to East Central York Rite College No. 16 and was the recipient of the Honorary Purple Cross in 2005. He is a member of Little Egypt Council No. 400 Allied Masonic Degrees, and the Illinois College of Masonica Societas Rosicruciana. He belongs to Saint Edward Conclave Red Cross of Constantine, of Springfield, Illinois, serving as Puissant Sovereign in 2008.

Brother Dicks held regular membership in ANSAR Shrine Center of Springfield, Illinois and was an honorary member of Mohammed and Ainad Shrine Centers. He was a member of Crystal Chapter No. 39 Order of Eastern Star of Sullivan, Illinois. He was a recipient of the Honorary Demolay Legion of Honor and a Member of Honor of Job’s Daughter Bethel No. 49 of Decatur, Illinois.

He was a member of Illinois Lodge of Research, Iowa Research Lodge No. 2, and Southern California Lodge of Research. Honorary memberships include High Twelve International, The Grand Lodge of Tennessee, Western Star Lodge No. 240, Wilmington Lodge No. 208, Vienna Lodge No. 150, and Greenup Lodge No. 125.

MWB Michael Bruce Manning

Michael Bruce Manning was born February 17, 1940 in the small coal mining and farming community of Taylorville, Illinois. Mike’s father and both of his grandfathers were coal miners and members of the local Masonic Lodge. Mike’s mother was a homemaker and very involved in Eastern Star. Mike’s early years were spent camping, hiking, and hunting and he was a member of the local Boy Scout Troop. He attended Taylorville High School where he played varsity football and was a letterman each of his 4 years of high school. He was also on the varsity wrestling team.

Mike graduated in 1958 and joined the United States Marine Corps. After completing boot camp, Advanced Infantry Training, Basic Recon School and then Force Recon Training at Camp Pendleton, CA, he returned home to propose to his high school sweetheart, Maggie.

2/17/1940 – 5/15/2021

Mike’s first tour of duty in Vietnam was in 1960 as a Force Recon Sniper. After his return to the US, he and Maggie were stationed in Millington TN where Mike attended Aircraft Mechanics School. After completing training in Tennessee, Mike was transferred to the Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point, NC, where he and Maggie lived until 1962.

Mike re-enlisted and was re-assigned to the helicopter base in Santa Ana CA. A second tour in Viet Nam followed in 1965-66, where he flew over 300 combat missions as a Crew Chief/Door-Gunner.

After being discharged in 1966, Mike worked for the Santa Ana Police Dept. in Orange County, California, and then accepted a lucrative position in the commercial finance industry. For the next ten years Mike was promoted through the ranks with Westinghouse Credit and ITT Commercial Finance, ultimately heading up one of the largest wholesale

finance divisions of ITT, budgeting and controlling tens of millions of dollars.

After realizing that white collar work was not as rewarding as police work, Mike returned to the profession he truly missed. He completed his career in 2002, having served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, retiring in 2002 after twenty years as a detective with the Arizona Department of Public Safety. During his time with the Arizona DPS, Mike’s most challenging cases involved investigations into organized crime, outlaw motorcycle gangs, satanic cult crimes and homicides.

Mike was initiated into Mound Lodge #122, Taylorville IL in 1962, completing his degrees the next year by courtesy of Silver Cord Lodge #505 in Santa Ana CA. He retained his membership in Mound Lodge until 1973, when he joined Tucson Lodge #4. In 1999, he transferred to Flagstaff #7, then became a dual member of Williams-Grand Canyon in 2000, serving as Master of #38 in 2002.

While in Flagstaff he chaired Bikes for Books with the Flagstaff School District, Police Officer of the Year and Firefighter of the Year Awards programs,

which included not only Flagstaff and NAU Police and Fire but surrounding Fire Districts as well. He also took those programs to Williams-Grand Canyon Lodge during his time there.

Mike served the Grand Lodge as a Lodge Program Coordinator (the predecessor of today’s DDGM), as a member of Jurisprudence Committee for two years, then as Grand Sword Bearer in 2004. Also in 2004, he transferred his membership to Central Arizona #14 and was their Mason of the Year in 2006. Mike was a District Deputy Grand Lecturer in 2005 and 2006, then Grand Lecturer for 3 years (2007-2009). At Grand Lodge in 2010, he was named Arizona Mason of the Year and was also appointed Junior Grand Steward by GM James Rowan.

In 2012, Mike re-affiliated with Mound Lodge in Illinois. He was also a member of the Arizona Military Degree Team, Tucson Scottish Rite, Prescott York Rite Bodies, El Zaribah Shrine and Marion McDaniel #56 in Tucson, Arizona.

He was elected to serve as Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons of Arizona for the Masonic year of 2014/2015. Both Brothers were shining examples of how Masons should conduct themselves. They will be missed by Masons, friends and families in Illinois, Arizona, and wherever they shared their mission. Rest in Peace, my Brothers. Well done, my good and faithful Servants, well done!

RWB Ed Walker Illinois Freemasonry Editor

2021 3rd Quarter Anniversaries

GRAND LODGE COMMUNICATION Annual 182 ND

Early Bird Registration Thursday afternoon and evening at the Headquarter Hotel - Wyndham Springfield City Centre, 700 East Adams Street, Springfield, Illinois 62701

October 8-9, 2021 BoS Center, Springfield

Friday, Oct. 8

• 7:00 a.m.

Coffee, Tea & Pastries BoS Center

• 8:00 a.m.

Grand Lodge Session Opens BoS Center

• 12:15 p.m.

Grand Lodge Recess

Men’s LuncheonWyndham Springfield City Centre, Grand Ballroom

• 1:30 p.m.

Illinois Masonic Family Identification Program

Wyndham Springfield City Centre, Conference Center 4

• groupable|m2 Training

BoS Center, Rooms B-11A

• 3:00 p.m.

Grand Lecturer/CLI Meeting

Wyndham Springfield City Centre, Ambassador Room

• Lodge of Research

Wyndham Springfield City Centre, Plaza Room 3

• OLP Training

BoS Center, Rooms B-11A

• 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

“No Host” Reception Grand Ballroom Mezzanine, Wyndham Springfield City Centre, (Semi-formal)

• 6:30 p.m.

Grand Banquet Grand Ballroom, Wyndham Springfield City Centre, (Semi-formal)

Hospitality following banquet and program in the Rendezvous Room

Saturday, Oct. 9

• 8:00 a.m.

Coffee, Tea & Pastries BoS Center

• 9:00 a.m.

Grand Lodge Session Opens BoS Center

• 12:00 p.m. Completion of Business

•

Saturday, Oct. 9th

Ladies Complimentary served until 10:00 a.m.

Wyndham Springfield City Centre, Vista Rooms 4, 5 & 6

Additional meetings and seminars will be announced during Grand Lodge Sessions.

GRAND LODGE COMMUNICATION Annual 182 ND

A Luncheon and Bingo featuring Brad Cole as ‘The Caller’ will be held for the ladies at 11:30 a.m. at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre on Friday in the Vista 4, 5 & 6 Rooms. All ladies are invited to advance reservations are required.

Lunch will be served following the Friday morning Session in the Grand Ballroom of the Wynd ham Springfield City Centre. Tickets for the lunch will be $25.00 each and No tickets will be available at Grand Lodge.

GRAND LODGE BANQUET, INSTALLATION and AWARDS: Ballroom of the Wyndham Springfield City Centre on Friday, October 8th at 6:30 p.m. with a “No Host” reception at 5:30 p.m. Tickets for the banquet will be $45.00 each and

on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. in the Wyndham Springfield City Centre in the Vista 4, 5 & 6 Rooms. and may be ordered free of charge at the bottom of this form.

Order online via link https://conta.cc/3i7yDn3 or detach order form below and mail to:

The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M of the State of Illinois • 2866 Via Verde • Springfield, IL 62703

RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE ON THIS FORM & RETURNED BY SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

MEAL TICKET ORDER FORM

Payment must be included or you can order online: https://conta.cc/3i7yDn3

_______ ticket(s) for the Ladies Luncheon at $20.00 each

_______ ticket(s) for the Men’s Lunch at $25.00 each .......................................

_______ ticket(s) for Grand Lodge Banquet at $45.00 each

Filet of Beef Tenderloin .................

Vegetarian option available for Ladies Luncheon. Please indicate any dietary restrictions:

_______ ticket(s) at no charge for the Ladies Complimentary Breakfast

Total amount enclosed $

Total $ __________

Total $ __________

Total $ __________

PROVIDE THE INFORMATION WHERE TICKETS SHOULD BE SENT:

Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address:

HOTEL INFORMATION

The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. State of Illinois

Annual Meeting – October 8th & 9th, 2021

All hotel reservations will be placed directly with the hotel. Hotel reservations can be made online or by phone, both requiring a credit card. Reservations must be made no later than September 16, 2021, to secure the room. Reservations are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

fore or after the event, please contact the sales manager at the appropriate hotel. Follow the instructions below on how to make your reservations.

Please call the hotel of your choice to make your reservations.

Wyndham Springfield City Centre

700 East Adams St. • Springfield, IL 62701 • 217-789-1530

Group code: 10057027GL or “Grand Lodge of Illinois”

Online reservation link: http://bit.ly/GrandlodgeOct21

President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a Double Tree by Hilton Hotel

701 East Adams St. • Springfield, IL 62701 • 217-544-8800

Group code: GLI

Online reservation link:

https://doubletree.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/S/SPIASDT-GLI-20211007/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG

Please note: No rooms can be held without a credit card. Cancellations must be made one day prior to arrival. Failure to cancel will result in a $105 plus tax no show fee applied to your credit card on file.

Special Ceremony for Hull Lodge No. 910

By Grant W. Cole

Hull Lodge No. 92, Payson, and the family of Brother Harry Koeller were pleased to have Right Worshipful Brother Michael Jackson, Deputy Grand Master, visit Hull Lodge on May20, 2021, to present a 75-year pin, certificate, and apron to Brother Koeller. Congratulations from Most Worshipful Grand Master Stephen F. Oakley were extended by our Deputy Grand Master. Brother Koeller graciously accepted the award and spoke very eloquently about his 75 years of experience in the fraternity. He talked about sitting up nights with a sick brother and working a full day before and after while somehow never tiring himself out. The love this brother has shown the fraternity was obvious at our stated meeting that night. Often, we

talk about what a privilege it is to belong to the fraternity and attend such events. Few times can I say that I felt such a privilege any more than on this occasion. Congratulations Brother Harry and thanks to all who were able to attend. v

Brother Grant W. Cole, Assistant Secretary, Hull Lodge No. 910

Right Worshipful Brother Grant Cole, Assistant Area Deputy Grand Master; Brother Harry Koeller; Worshipful Master Hull #910, Danny Chapman; Right Worshipful Brother Mike Jackson Deputy Grand Master

Brother Koeller ; Right: Worshipful Brother Jackson Deputy Grand Master