The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 16* No. 1

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION Of- I ' H ~ GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

VOICE OF FREEMASONRY

Bbouf The Cover

Share the Light

A STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 'his publication is designed to be an organ of information, instmction, and inspirastion for all who hold allegianceto this Grand Jurisdiction. Please be aware that my mistakes in this publication are there for a we publish somethime fot everyone and some people are always looking for errors. Coments and contributions should be directed to the attention of the editor, care of the Grand

Secretary.

The Grand Master's theme for the year, "Share the Light," was officially revealed at his installation in a moving ceremony. Each of the elected Grand Lodge officers, in turn, after a fitting introduction by the Deputy Grand M poke to one of the key d Master's program. concepts integral to th The Senior Grand W

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Before earhbfficer spoke, he first lit doing. , add t and shared his 11

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of brotherhood thus created shines its light on one and all. It has been recognized, he said, that "Some men see things as they are and say why, I dream things that never were and say, why not."

My brethren, let us respond by being visionary in our every thought, word, and deed. Let us resolve that 1999 shall truly be a year of Masonic light in this Grand Lodge, a year in which we shall open up the Craft and share its abundance with the world.

Voice of Freemasonry Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C 5428 MacArtErur Blvd., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016 Tel: (202) 686-18 11 Fax: (202) 686-2759 E-mail: dcmasons @aol.com

www.geocities.comlCapeCanaveral/3278 PublisherlEditor - Stewart W. Miner Editorial Board Mickey Ander Hugh Y. Bernard, Jr. Harold Grainger Paul M. Bessel Carl R. LeVine W. Kirk MacNulty Dan L Frederick

Grand Lodge Officers Elected Dan L Frederick................................................G r a d Master Mansour Hat& ................................... .Deputy Grand Master Senior Grand Warden Grant R. Berning...................................

Robert H. Starr................................. neStewart W. Miner, P.G.M..............................Grand Secretary Jerold J. Samet.....

Stafford Appel...............................................Grand Lecturer S e o Grand Deacon Jules S. Tepper...................................

G. Lee Ferguson..............................,.Ambr Grand Deacon Leonard Proden.. ..............................Senior Grand Steward Junior Grand Steward Albert M. Smith..................................

Appointed Bill F. Greschel.. .............................A Marshal David A. Balcom............................................a n d Chaplain Walter F. Simon................................D e p Grand Chaplain John Greenwood............................ A s s Grand Chaplain Carlos A. Landazuri.......................Assistant Grand Chaplain Assistant Grand Chaplain Paul B. Najarian .............................

Bilal M. Raschid............................A s s i s t Grand Chaplain d Sword Bearer Paul M. Bessel................................A Charles H. Nalls .................................4Pursivant Carl R. LeVine..........................................

G r a n d Historian GerhardMeinzer...................................................

Grand Tiler Joel R. Kahn...................................d3eputy Grand Lecturer Paul D. Gleason................................GLodge Physician George S. Nicol .................................Grand Standard Bearer Lawrence R. Ash ............................Aide to the Grand Master Kevin P. Jay...................................Aide to the Grand Master Daniel W. Miller.............................Aide to the Grand Master Assistant Grand Tiler John P. Carter........................................

Bernard E. Shultz.......................................

Grand Chancellor Robert B. Heyat..............................GM'S Special Emmisary Grand Lodge School Tiler Jay Whitcomb............................... &am Elias.................................GmdLodge Photographer Neal E Jarvis..............................Grand Lodge Viedographer M. Mickey Andar.................................. Grand Lodge Editor Robert J. Hughes................................Grand Lodge Almoner

Also at the installation we saw a very proud brother, our Junior Past Grand Master, Eldon J. Brown, enter the ranks of the Past Grand Masters of this Grand Lodge. Following his concluding remarks to the Grand Lodge, in which he eloquently expressed appreciation for the privilege of serving as Grand Master, he was escorted to a seat of honor through a Knight Templar "Arch of Steel," organized by Grand Commander Urban T. Peters. Later in the evening "Brownie"was presented his Past Grand Master jewel, one that had been previously worn by his Grand Master, the now deceased MWB Charles B. Gilley.

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The installation music was beautiful. For this I am indebted to brother Roy Revis, who sang with such reverence, and to Jean and Wilbur Penley, both of whom were sensational at the organ. And it was a joy for me to have my family present to witness the most important day of my life. My family has always been fully supportive of my Masonic activity and sharing the day with them was particularly meaningful. I love them all very much.

The 1999 Grand Master and Family

I am committed this year to bringing our deeds to the attention of the public. We must take a kind, but firm, stand in defense of our mighty Craft. When Masonry is criticized, the Grand Lodge Officers have a duty to respond. knowingly, patiently, and persistently, striving always to propagate truth as we know it.

At the installation we witnessed a renewed sense of harmony and brotherly kindness. Let us resolve to keep those virtues ever before us as we work to complete the designs that have been placed on the trestleboard. Our goals are realistic, our goals are attainable, and our goals, God willing, will be achieved. Let us then dedicate ourselves to work resolutely, in harmony, and in selfless unity for the continuing cause of Freemasonry.

Grand Master

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About Our Grand Master ...

Dan L Frederick, the only son and the youngest child of Vincent Charles and Jeanne Marie McDaniel Frederick, was born in DuBois, Pennsylvania on August 7,1960.

He has two sisters, Debbie Healy and Dawn Puzzitiello, and one nephew, Seth Shawn Healy. Following graduation from the DuBois Area Senior High School on June 27,1978, Dan came to Washington to study at the George Washington University, from which he entered on duty with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and served as a specialist in one of the Bureau's fingerprint divisions. He left the FBI in 1980 to accept his present position as business manager for M. Stein and Company in Washington, D.C. Dan has been an enthusiastic supporter of the Order of DeMolay since his initiation, on October 3, 1973, in Bethany Chapter in DuBois, which he served as Master Councilor in 1976. On his arrival in Washington, D.C. he affiliated with Anacostia Chapter. Thereafter, in 1979,he transferred to Robert LeBruce Chapter, where he served as Master Councilor during that Chapter's 60th anniversary. In 1995he was designated an Honorary Past Jurisdictional Master Councilor in recognition of his many achievements, including service as Chapter Advisor, JurisdictionalParliamentarian, Jurisdictional Scribe, and Grand Commander of the Court of Chevaliers.

The International Supreme Council of DeMolay has recognized Dan for his service to the Order. He was awarded the DeMoIay Cross of Honor in 1986, and in 1989, the Grand Master of the Order of DeMolay, Joe R. Manning, Jr., awarded him the DeMolay Legion of Honor. Further, in acknowledgment of his sustained inter-jurisdictional service to DeMolay, Dan was elected a deputy member of the International Supreme Council in 1992, a year in which he also served as an aide to the 62nd Grand Master of the Order of DeMolay, Jerold J. Samet.

Dan was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Samuel Gompers Lodge No. 45 on March 9,1982. He is presently a member of Osiris-Pentalpha Lodge No. 23, where he served as Worshipful Master; of Hiram-Takoma Lodge No. 10; of the

During his tenure as Grand High Priest, Most Excellent Companion ~redegcktook an active part in the founding of Royal Arch Masonry in Portugal. At the consecration ceremonies of that Grand Chapter he served as the Acting General Grand Secretary of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, International. He is also a founding member of Enoch Chapter No. 1, now known as Mostiero de Alcabasa Chapter No. 1, in Lisbon, Portugal.

Pythagoras Lodge of Research; and of the Lodge of the Holy Land No. 50 in Israel. In addition he holds honorary membership in D.C.'s Federal Lodge No. 1. During his year as Worshipful Master of Osiris-Pentalpha Lodge No. 23 in 1987, he also served with distinction as President of the Association of Worshipful Masters.

Because of his enthusiasm for the cause of Freemasonry, several Grand Masters appointed Dan to significant duties in the Grand Lodge. In 1989he became chairman of the Grand Lodge Blood Committee, in which capacity he served through 1993.

During that period, and constantly since then, Dan has rendered outstanding service to a number of committees, and counted among his notable accomplishments are his continuing contributions to the perfection of the Grand Master's Class in this jurisdiction.

Dan became a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies of the District of Columbia in November 1983. He is currently serving as Senior Warden in Evangelist Chapter Rose Croix, and in the biannual reunion classes, he confers the 14thDegree. In appreciation of his zeal for the Rite he was made a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor on November 14,1995.

In recognitionof his potential, the members of Grand Lodge elected Dan to the office of Senior Grand Steward on December 16, 1992. Serving each succeeding chair with diligence and honor, he was elected Grand Master at the Annual Communication on December 12, 1998. Dan is the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Georgia near the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. He has also been honored for his work by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Nueilly Beno of the Grande Loge Nationale Francaise. On October 19,1996, that Grand Lodge named him a Past Grand Director of Ceremonies and conferred on him the title of Very Worshipful Brother.

Other Masonic bodies in which Dan holds membership include Adoniram-Zabud Council No. 2, R.S.M.; Almas Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.; and Friendship Chapter#17, O.E.S, ail in the District of Columbia; and the Royal Order of Scotland. His non-Masonic interests include the Bernard E. Schultz Foundation, for which he was a founding trustee and on which he now serves as the Secretary-Treasurer; the Alberts H. and ConstanceSaunders Foundation, which he serves as Executive Director; and an organization founded by the Trustees of the Saunders Foundation, known as Youth Leaders International, in which he is an active participant.

Companion Frederick received his Capitular Degrees in Mt. Pleasant Chapter, R.A.M., where he served as High Priest in the Capitular year 1988-89. He is also a member of Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 3 in the District of Columbia. At the present time he serves as the Grand Representative of the Grand Royal Arch chapter of New Hampshire near the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of D.C. Following his service through the chairs of the Grand Chapter, Dan was elected and installed as the 123rd Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the District of Columbia on March 20, 1993.

Dan L Frederick, our Grand Master, in sum, is a youth oriented Grand Master. He enjoys working with young people, particularly with those who are active in DeMolay and in Youth Leaders International, and with all others who, in short, have the future before them.

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to the Navy Yard. He retired on October 3,1991 from his post in the Supply Department of the Navy at that location.

Brother Shawen has been active in all of the branches of Masonry, each of which he has served with resolution and devotion. He was raised in Fort Dupont Lodge No. 52, where he served as Worshipful Master in 1978 and 1979. He also served as Master of Dawson Lodge No. 16 in 1988 -- 1989. Following the merger of Fort Dupont and Lafayette Lodges, he again Served as Master of the merged Lodge, Lafayette-DupontLodge No.19, in 1993.

The Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia, at its Annual Communication on December 12,1998, opted unanimously to award Brother Hugh A. Shawen with Masonry's highest award in this jurisdiction -- the Distinguished Service Medal.

Brother Shawen is a native of Washington D.C. Born here on September 26,1936, he is a lifelong resident of this city. He has lived his entire life in SoutheastD.C., where he received his education and spent his working career as a civil servant assigned

cessful terms as Grand Master of the Third Veil of the Grand Chapter (1985), as Grand Steward of the Grand Council (1990 and 1991),and as Grand Commander (1995) and Grand Recorder (1996 to date) of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar in the District of Coloumbia.

Brother Shawen is a faithful member and supporter of the Scottish Rite Bodies of D.C.; of Almas Temple, A.A.O.N.M.N.S.; and of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon. He holds the rank of KCCH in the Scottish Rite, and in the York Rite, the rank of KYCH. Further, he has received other high honors, including the International Award of the General Grand ChapterInternational (RAM); the Ish Sodi Award in the Cryptic Rite (the Council); and the Knight Commander of the Temple Award of the Commandery,

Yes, Hugh A. Shawen has received his Brother Shawen is a member of all of the York Rite Bodies. Exalted in Columbia full share of honors and titles. But we like Chapter No. 1, R.A.M., he served that Chap- to think of him as he is -- a faithful, quiet, ter as High Priest in 1979, and since 1981, unassuming and gentlemanly brother who he has been the Secretary of that Chapter. bears burdens and does tasks for others withHe was Illustrious Master of Adoniram out the hope of fee or reward. In recogniCouncil in 1989 and Commander of his tion of these tokens of character, the Grand Comrnandery, Columbia No. 2, in 1985, Lodge presented to Hugh A. Shawen the Dis1986 and 1998. Since 1990 he has served tinguished Service Award for 1998. his Commandery as Recorder.

At the Grand level he has served suc-

Annual Communication

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At the Annual Communication the Grand Master, Eldon J. Brown, was pleased to make presentations in recognition of service to several Masons in this jurisdiction.

Among those so honored were a number of Worshipful Masters. Worshipful Brothers Kevin P. Jay (7), Daniel W. Miller (ll), Peter Krusen (25), and Robert N. Hixon (45) were presented with plaques attestingto their successfulquest of the Grand Masters Award for 1998.

like manner the outstanding and sustained service of MWB Charles S. Iversen and MWB Robert F. Drechsler to Masonry in this Certificates of appointmentas represen- jurisdiction was recognized. tatives of foreign Grand Lodges to the Grand The Grand Master was himself honored Lodge of the District of Columbia were presented by the Grand Master to WB Paul D. by receipt of a number of awards. The ExGleason (Italy), MWB Richard E. Fletcher ecutive Secretaryof the Masonic ServiceAs(Nebraska); MWB Theodore M. Kahn (Ver- sociationpresented him with a plaque attestmont), and WB Gerald E. Colson-Kirtley ing to his support of the MSA hospital visitation program; WB Nelson Newcornbe pre(Montana). sented him with a flag that had flown at the Each year the Grand Master is privi- Washington Monument on July 19, 1998; leged to present Valentine Reintzel Medals and the Worshipful Masters of Federal to three recipients. In recent years one of Lodge No. 1 and Potomac Lodge No. 5 prethese medals has been awarded to someone sented him with a four-volume set of the history of our mother Grand Lodge, the J%omanother Grand Lodge, and this year that 1lonor was accorded to MWB Cedric L. Grand Lodge of Maryland. To say the least, <smith, Past Grand Master and Grand Secthe Annual Communication was "rewardretary of the Grand Lodge of Vermont. In ing."

The Grand Master was similarly pleased to present sets of commemorative cuff links to a number of Worshipful Masters for their participation in and promotion of the traveling gavel program. Among those so honored were Worshipful Brothers Todd R. Croteau (I), H. Rodgers Gore (4), H. Austin Esfandiary (5), Kevin P. Jay (7), Neal F.

"Awarding" Experience

Jarvis (lo), Lawrence R. Ash (17), and Sten Tegner (32).

The Strcngrh qf' Unity

A d y . i d e c l u i~ ~ ~ u yp q k w 10 ewrg~~i~illly mhef ML-5 publk p m ~ s a ~ ccrcy q p f l u n i l y , Iwd if fi is -my w br fo, I wilI Ie~Iw1yaid i i ~ h f u l l q to ; ittl s t t t ~ i l w ~ tws ,i w n w v&, l h n bapl~l;lgc ~ W ii.sltrru~y.A%y w Gthncl Mnw,my k t u w n , you nlny be a s u d h a t 1 *IT b i d OW banner high, w i l h d . w i h u t L k h k pridduiiy d farhrlgr, and in hip MNII wlicit your appmwT aa s u p p ~ t .

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80th Anniversary for DeMolay

The U c 3 l o l a ~ International Scn.icu and Lmdership Centcr v.as comp1rrc.d in 1 ')SO. It represenu DeMolily in its missim. plus it rcminds all DeMolays of thc hrothcrliood and fellowship shared sinct o u r b q i n n i n g in 1919. The Center is the placc L\ lz ~ ~ T C S CUUI. I - ~ ~ heritage. providc cf'ficicn~ scl-vice, pursue excellence, and promole the Order ol' DeMoiay. It's a symbol ol' D c + l o l a ~ . showcasing our strumg~hand ideals.

C. Brian Schwartz July 27, 1964 - Fcbl-uary 5 , 1999

Harold Grainper

I has been Masonry criticised by many because of the anonymity of the ballot, and the fact that it requires but one black cube to keep an applicant from being elected.

It has always been regarded as one of the fundamentals of the fraternity, that all members of the Craft have the right to say, each for himself, who shall and who shall not become members of his Lodge. And it is highly necessary, if the character of the institution be preserved, that that right be most strictly guarded. In no other way can it be so well preserved as by the secrecy of the ballot.

Not only are ballots so taken that no other Mason can know how you ballot; you are strictly enjoined from letting any one know how you ballot, how you have balloted, how you will ballot. The contrary, of course, is even more a necessity; you must never inquire of a brother how he has or will ballot on any application.

Where there is no secrecy of ballot many influences might sway a Mason; where he votes in silence and in secrecy, he can exercise his judgment, his conscience

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and his character, with no reference to what the other fellow may think or do or say. In this way, and this way only, can Masons pass true and unbiasedjudgment upon those who apply for membership.

Of course, there are abuses possible with this systemand sometimes these abuses are practiced. But the abuses are neither so serious nor so frequent as to be compared with the harm which would be done to the fraternity were there no ballot secrecy; were it possible to "lobby" for a candidate or to bribe away a threatened black cube.

cise your spite, your ill will, your meaness and no one will know it. You are as free to practice charity, tolerance, forgiveness, decency and no one will know it. It is entirely up to you!

Almost the first words a candidate hears before being initiated are " Our ancient and honorable fraternity welcomes to her doors and admits to her privileges worthy men of all creeds and of every race, but she insists that all men shall stand upon an exact equality" and later on the words " Masonry unites men of every country, sect and opinion."

These words are a vital part of the great lessons our Ritual teaches us and by which we are guided in our relations with our fellow men.

To cast a black cube in the ballot box is There are really only tt &ms you a serious matter and no brother should de- should ask yourself when cashkg your balposit one without giving ample thought to lot. Is the candidate a good man? Will he what he does and why he does it. Your one be a charge on the Lodge? Give the Lodge, black cube is as powerful as a thousand -- not the man, the benefit of any doubt that against it the rest of the Lodge can do noth- the applicant is a good man. If you honing. If you. say " he shall not become a estly think that he will not be a good Mamember of the Lodge," he cannot become son, a good Lodge member, or you have one. Because you have this great power, you good reason to believe that he will not be have also the moral responsibility to use it able to discharge his obligations to the with wisdom, discretion and the exact just- Lodge, you have a moral obligation to stop ness which Masons are taught are cardinal him with the ballot. But if you know nothvirtues. ing against a man and have merely a personal dislike for him, then, indeed it is time The beautiful and terrifying part of it is for you to argue with yourself and not allow that there is only one to judge you and what your passions or prejudices to betray you beyou do. Only one Mason in the world can fore you cast the black cube. sit in judgment on your ballot and that one is yourself. You are perfectly free to exerMy brother, use the black cube sparingly. Use it as wisely as it is given you to do. Use it fearlessly and ruthlessly against the unfit, but unless you really know, think well. The Lodge first-the applicant nextyour own preference last. In its use never forget that you have not only a mind which thinks, but a heart which feels.

Carl R. Le Vine Source: AMaster's Wages by Carl H. Claudy

Wreath Laying at George WashingtonMasonic National Memorhzl ebruary 14,1998.

(Lto R) Worshipful Brother Akram Elias; Worshipful Brother Albert M. Smith; Right Worshipful Brother Mansour Hatefi; Right Worshivful Brother Robert H. Stan:

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Among the large group of spectators present to witness the installation of MWB Dan L Frederick at the Scottish Rite Temple was a group of officers of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of the District of Columbia. Leading the Prince Hall Delegation was the Grand Master of that Grand Lodge, MWB Willie H. Griffin.

Following his installation MWB Frederick met MWB Griffin at the altar where the latter, after an exchange of pleasantries, was presented with a crystal replica of the U.S. Capitol.

Consituent Lodge Stated Meeting Schedule Grand Lodge, EA.A. M. of the District of Columbia

Monday 4nacostia 21 Potomac 5 East Gate 34

Joppa 35

Wednesday

Thursday

B.B. French 15 Albert Pike 33 Harmony 17 Osiris-Pent 23 9 Muses (Study Grp)

Naval 4 Sing-Hope-Leb 7 Petworth 47

Federal 1 Just-Columbia 3

Anacostia 21 Potomac 5 East Gate 34

Lafayette-Dup 19 Mehr 90 Hiram-Takoma 10

Tern-Noy-Cath 32

9 Muses B .B . French 15 Osiris-Pent 23

Naval 4 Theo-Roosevelt 44 Petworth 47

Friday

Sat 1 Sun

St. John's 11

Hayastan 94 @=I La France 93 (Feb, Apr, Jan, Sep, Nov & Dec)

Alianza Frat 92 (Sat) Hayastan 94 (sat) (Feb, Apr, Jun, Sep & Nov)

Wash Daylight 14 (Sat)

Magnolia 53 Federal 1

Nat-Stan-Daw 12

Hiram-Takoma 10

(Last Sun)

Alianza Frat 92 (Sat) Soj-Kilwin 1798 (Sat)

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Grand iEasfm Brown Sfqs Down and Grand Easter Frederick

MWB Eldon J. Brown "Surrenders."

MWB Brown, escorted by this Grand Marshal, WB Robert E Matsudaira, arrives for the installation of the 1999 Grand Lodge Officers under a white flag."

MWB Brown retires.

Presentation of Past Grand Master's Jewel

Following the installation of his successor, MWB Brown proceeds through a Knight Templar "arch of steel" to his seat of honor in the auditorium.

MWB Perry A. Lester presents MWB Brown with his Past Master's jewel. This jewel was formerly worn by MWB Charles B. Gilley, Sr, now deceased.

Installation Prayer MWB Dan L Frederick at prayer following his installation as Grand Master. Accompanying him to the alter (left to right) were his parents, Charles and Jeanne Frederick, MWB George R. Adam, and MWB Donald L. Mallorey.

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Grand Master is "collared."

In the installation ceremony the Grand Master's Collar and jewel is passed from MWB Brown to MWB Frederick.

Seventy Years a Mason!

+. ; . ! si.,da

raised on March 18, 1929. +.d

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Edgar learned his cateehiim k@ckly, and began instructing new Masons that year; On March 15,1999,Worshipful Brother a responsibility that he undertook willingly M. Edgar Milstead, P.M., celebrated the 70" and happily and has not given up doing to anniversary of his being raised to the sub- this very day ! In the intervening 70 years, lime degree of Master Mason in Potomac he brought some 15 candidates to Potomac Lodge No. 5 in truly grand style. Worship- lodge, by his own reckoning. Edgar has also ful Brother Milstead, who is 92 years of age, instructed a significant number of Potomac graciously received his 70-year pin from Lodge brethren in the ritual work, as well as Most Worshipful Dan L. Frederick, Grand other matters pertaining to the many other Master of Masons of the District of Colum- ceremonies of the Lodge. In doing so, he bia, but only after presiding over an impres- has always taken great pride in doing things sive first section of the Fellowcraft degree, "by the book."

While embarking on his Masonic capassing four new brothers for Potomac Lodge in the process. He accomplished this feat with a cast of officers, none of whom were &st *M&ters, m d all of whom had B m . e e d by him at various po&s b&ek Masonic lives.

Then he topped ?t off by inviting all prase& to be bein 20 years when he w& ramive hi5

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given only to Masons who were particularly helpful to Latin Americans.

Edgar became Worshipful Brother Edgar Milstead in 1984, when he served Potomac Lodge as its Master. He has continued his education efforts as a Past Master, and on June 18, 1990 he was presented the Grand Lodge Fidelity Medal in honor of his long dedication to Masonic work.

Edgar has also been active in the York Rite; he is a Past High Priest of Washington-Potomac Chapter No. 8, Royal Arch Masons, and a Member of Triangle Council No. 3, Cryptic Masons of the District of Columbia. In March 1992,he was also designated a Meritorious Companion by the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the District of Columbia.

The festive evening, which was attended by more than 40 of his Masonic friends, began with a first class meal and a special sheet cake in Edgar's honor.

At the end of the degree, the four For Worship-ful Brother new Fellowcraft Masons -Milstead, this is only his latest Brother James Behr, Brother Pecontribution in a long sning of ter G. Blankenheim, Brother dedicated serviceprojects for his Aaron T. Kornblum, and Brother Blue Lodge. Over his entire Jeffrey D. Russell --joined the Masonic career, he has devoted himself to the education of his Edgar Milstead, PM; Dan L Frederick, GM; Dean S. Clatterbuck, assembled lodge as Most Worfellow Masons. shipful Dan L. Frederick, Grand PM and Secretary, Potomac Lodge No. 5.

Master of Masons of the District Born September 9, 1906 in Doncaster reer, Edgar also started his professional ca- of Columbia, presented the 70-year pin to Maryland, Edgar spent his early years on the reer by entering the National School of Eco- Worshipful Brother Milstead. The Most farm with his father. When Edgar was 11, nomics and Government, where he com- WorshipfulGrand Master then appropriately he remembers asking his father whether he pleted his pre-law work. He then received recognized Edgar's long service and continshould join the Junior Order of the United his Law Degree from George Washington ued devotion to Masonry.

American Mechanics, to which his father be- University in 1938, went into business, and In response, Worshipful Brother longed. The answer: "No, Edgar, you should moved to Virginia, where he continues to Milstead acknowledged his appreciationfor wait until you are old enough and then join reside. the friendship of all present and for the recthe Masonic fraternity.."'And this came from During the short breaks he took from ognition given him. He noted that being a a man who was never a Mason! Yet Edgar's father certainly had Masonic influence: his studies, Edgar chanced to meet his be- Mason had held many rich benefits for him loved wife, Mattie, to whom he remained over the years, especially the opportunity to three of his six children became Masons. married until her fatal illness ended their instruct so many of his brethren and watch them progress in their Masonic lives. With Edgar kept his father's recommendation wonderful marriage of 63 years in 1997. a smile, he commented that being a Mason firmly in his mind and acted at the first opEdgar also worked for the Pan Ameri- twice helped him out of a pickle when he portunity. As a young man, he moved to Washington, D.C., and was soon employed can Union from 1931-1936, entertaining dig- had difficulties with cars and other matters. at Peoples Drug in Georgetown. While nitaries from around the world. He was told He said that he would continue to serve as there, he met Ray Pruett. Upon learning that that he got that job because he was a Ma- long as he was able. The Most Worshipful Brother Pruett was a Master Mason, Edgar son. He brought at least two candidatesfrom Grand Master then agreed to come back in told him that he would like to become a that organization into Potomac Lodge. A 20 years to help present the 90-year pin!

Mason. Edgar petitioned Potomac Lodge highlight of this period occurred when the and was idtiated on December 17,1928. He Ambassador of Ecuador presented Edgar Peter W. DeForth, Potomac Lodge No. 5 was passed on February 18,1929, and was with the Coulan Alfredo Medal, a medal

minds of some it continues to exist today.

In fact, some really believe that the founder of the Illuminati, Adam Weishaupt (who lived from 1748-1830), came to America, killed George Washington, and impersonConspiracy.- How the Paranoid ~ t y f Flourishes e and Where It Comes From ated him. Weishaupt only made it look as if

by Daniel Pipes the Illuminati has been ended, so lie could 258 pp. New York: The Free Press, 1997. $25.00 secretly achieve his goals. The real Illuminati wanted to build a just and modern sociEvery Freemason is amazed to hear that als developed. Freemasonry is, according ety, and they thought they could attain their there are some people who hate Freema- to Margaret C. Jacobs in Living the Edight- aims by becoming Masons and taking over sonry and Masons. We cannot believe that enment, the modem embodiment of the En- Lodges. Some feel the Illuminati and Freeanyone would have anything other than lightenment. But while this period of his- masonry officially achieved union at the good feelings about our wonderful organi- tory liberated mend minds, it also led to fears Congress of Wilhemisbad in 1782, a date zation that engages in charitable work, talks among those who were uncomfortable with that also marked the legal emancipation of about helping brethren and their families, the fundamental changes taking place Jews in Austria, thus combining two groups and promotes patriotism, family values, around them. And since Freemasonry was feared by some. truth, justice, and theAmerican way. What a part of them, maybe even the most imporIf all this sounds so incredible that no could possibly cause some people to hate tant element, that organization must be the sane person could believe it, remember that center of the secret conspiracy to cause harm. us?

"Few organizations have inspired so much Pat Robertson is a respected figure in AmeriDaniel Pipes is a newsletter editor and speculation and awe as does the Freema- can society, and he has written books saylecturer from Philadelphia who has written sons," says Pipes, even though most Masons ing the United States and the world continue many books about the Middle East. Now probably find this statement surprising and to be threatened by the Illuminati, Freemahe has written an extremely informative even ridiculous, since we know what Ma- sonry, and international"bankers," which is often a code word for Jews. And many book about the major conspiracy theories in sons really do. people believe Robertson, and go even furhistory that continue to affect our lives toOf course, the statements of millions of ther than he does. h is also useful to reday, and he clearly shows who a&ks FreeHenry Ford, a Mason, wrote member that Masons that we are a beneficial organizamasonry and why. (This book is available frequently about the secret power of Jews tion are only part of the proof of the devifor purchase from the publisher, or at book and others who worked in secrecy to try to ousness of Freemasonry.

Supposedly, our stores, and it is also available in local public take over the world. leaders, those who are members of the Sulibraries. The D.C. Library has it in the Martin Luther King, Jr., branch, (catalog preme Councils of the Scottish Rite, the Some might think all this is merely inActive 33rd Degree Masons, know and purnumber "Hist1909.8P665). sue the evil purposes of Freemasonry, while teresting, since those who believe these For the last 100years, those who feared they make every effort to convince the rest crazy things cannot have any real influence. secret conspiracies focused on two groups: of the Masons and the public that Masonry But they have. Those who believe in conJews and Freemasons. They say either or is not evil. Or at least this is what a truly- spiracies, such as the fear that Masons are trying to destroy civilization, have had and both of these groups are trying to take over- convinced conspiracy theorist says. continue to have a very influential role. In the world, destroy democracy, all govemsome ways, Pipes points out, the 20th cenPipes teaches us a lot about Freemaments, Christianity, all religions, so they tury has been dominated by these people. sonry while writing about those who oppose (we) can rule over what is left after this deEven today, the political views of many are us.

Masons of the early 1700s were men of struction. These conspiracists are sure they influenced by their beliefs that Jews and different classes who could meet in an egaliare right, and all evidence proves what they Masons are secretly trying to destroy all that tarian atmosphere of deism, tolerance, and are saying. Freemasons do charity work? is good.

Many believe that Jews and Maself-improvement.

They were middle class That is to convince the public we are not as sons work jointly.

Hitler's Mein Kampf liberals who sought to improve society sinister as we really are. There is no evitalked of Masons as the agents of the Jews, f r e e speech, elections, and secularthrough dence that Jews are trying to take over the and British Prime Minister Benjamin an exhilarating way to esism.

It offered world? The conspiracytheorists invent forgDisraeli, those who attacked Dreyfus in cape the usual confines of society, and the eries such as the Protocols of the Elders of France with false evidence, and others bedistinctive symbols and elaborate rituals Zion, which appear to be the minutes of a lieved the same thing. meeting where they are quoted doing just added to the excitement. that. Just remember that appearances are So where does all this leave us? What Along the way, we learn more about the deceiving, apparent friends are really enshould we do about it? It is impossible to Llluminati than I have been able to find any emies and vice versa. where else. This is the group, often con- completely end false accusations against Pipes' book also describes the Enlight- fused with Freemasonry itself, that probably Masons and others hounded by enment, that period of history in the 1700s actually was a conspiracy of sorts and that conspiracists, because every bit of evidence when men's minds were liberated to think attempted to use Masonic lodges. It existed will be seen as further evidence of us hiding in new ways, and when Freemasonry's ide- from 1776 to 1884 in Bavaria, but in the our true intentions. But the vast majority of

Why Do Some People Hate Freemasonry?

A Clear Description of Who Hates Us and Why

I

I

15

people are men and women of good will. If all they hear are the stories of the conspiracy people, they may come to think there is some truth in what they say. If Masonic leaders are knowledgeable, if they learn exactly what those who oppose us have said in the past, and exactly what facts can be cited to prove to fairminded people that the allega-

tions against us are untrue, then those who are always against us can be kept to a small number. Otherwise, if our leaders and we do not speak up - and know exactly what can and should be said - we could very well find ourselves in another situation such as Freemasonry found itself in the 1830s in America, when thousands of Masons be-

came convinced themselves that Freemasonry was an evil institution and they joined in an almost successful effort to wipe it out in our country. The choice is up to us.

Paul M. Bessel

"SHARE THE LIGHT" - TOLERANCE Bilal M. Raschid, Assistant Grand Chaplain 0

'

The Grand Mastgr?M, W. Bro. Dan L Frederick's main theme this year is '"Share the Light." One of the Masonic teachings he has shared with us several times this year has been "tolerance.'"is seems most appropriate to many of us, because right at the beginning of a person's journey into Masonry, he is instructed by the Worshipful Master that...."by the exercise of Brotherly Love we are taught to regard the whole human species as one family...." (author's emphasis).

The causes of pathological hatred, bigotry and intolerance that lead to personality disorders which cause aggressiveness,violence and cruelty are very complex. But those who have studied and researched the subject, mention in their writings that "ignorance" is very much a contributory factor.;! The only way to attempt to remove the deep rooted prejudices of the human mind is through a knowledge and understanding of "other people," their beliefs, culture and traditions.

Fortunately for us, in the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, we have fast become a mirror of this great "Nation of Nations." Many nationalities and almost all the great religions of the world are represented among our Brotherhood. But to assume that this diversity of representation will, by itself, remove ignorance of the faithand creed of others would be a mistake. It is precisely due to this that our Grand Master personally talks about tolerance, and wants his Grand Lodge Officers to become personal exemplars of this gret Masonic teaching.

The image of Islam, and of Muslims, continues to be distorted due to the political climate that prevails; and not least due to the behavior of some Muslims who are themselves ignorant of the beautiful teachings of this great religion. Permit me, therefore, to "share the lighty'on some zspects of the Quranic teachings which to a discerning reader, would clearly point the way to "tolerance" in its broadest sense. The respect and reverence with which all the great prophets who preceded Mohammed (the Peace and Blessings of God be with him)are spoken of throughout the entire Holy Book is clearly the reason that Muslims always speak of other prophets with great reverence. The Quran says, for instance "We gave Moses the Book and We sent Apostles after him, one after another: We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear arguments and strengthenedhim with the holy spirit. What! Whenever then an Apostle came to you with that which your souls did not deserve, you were insolent so you called some liars and some you slay."

One of the most beautiful chapters of the Holy Quran is titled "Maryam" (Mary), in which is the narration of the virgin birth of Christ.4 And again God says: "0 Mary! Surely Allah has chosen you and purified you and chose you above the women of the world." 5 As for respecting one another, and of understanding that humanity is one family, God says, ...''let not one people laugh at another people, perchance they may be better than they..." 6 An again ..."Surely We have created you of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other; surely the most honorable of you in the sight of Allah is the one who is most righteous." 7 A wonderful example of tolerance and reverence for other faiths is provided by a historical incident which is not well known even among Muslims. When the prophet Mohammed conquered Mecca, and went to purify what is now Islam's holiest shrine, the Kaaba.

He went about destroying the idols, and the paintings and frescos of gods and goddesses inside the holy shrine. He then saw on the wall a representation of the Holy Virgin and Child. He placed both his hands on this icon, and ordered that all the others be effaced.

The icon of the Virgin was destroyed by a fire which occurred much later.8 It will be of interest to note that the Kaaba was built by the Prophet Abraham, and that Muslims all over the world say their prayers facing the Kaaba!

So, my Brethren, let us all be tolerant of the creed and faith of others, even as we are taught in the beautiful lessons of the 18th Degree of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.

E.A. degree Lecture; Second Section.

"Human Destructiveness," Anthony Storr.

3

H o b Quran, Chap.2, V87 op. Cit, Chap.19. ibid., Chap.3, V.41. ibid., Chap.49, V.11.

'ibid., Chap.49, V.13. * According to Al-Azraqi, the author

of the oldest history of Mecca; as cited

by Titus Burchardt in his book "Art of Islam."

The icon portrayed the Holy Virgin with the Infant on her knees.

Grand Lodge Officers - 1999 (Left to Right) First Row: Jerold J. Samet, Grand Treasurer; Jules S. Tepper, Senior Grand Deacon; Robert H. Starr, Junior Grand Warden; Dan L Frederick, Grand Master; Grant R. Berning, Senior Grand Warden; Stafford Appel, Grand Lecturer; Stewart W. Miner, Grand Secretary.

Second Row: Carl R. LeVine, Grand Historian; David A. Balcom, Grand Chaplain; Walter S. Simon. Deputy Grand Chaplain; Bilal M. Raschid. Assistant Grand Chaplain; G. Lee Ferguson, Junior Grand Deacon; Joel R. Kahn, Deputy Grand Lecturer; Carlos A. Landazuri, Assistant Grand Chaplain; Lawrence Ash, Aide to the Grand Master; Edwin J. Whitcomb, Grand Lodge School Tiler.

Third Row: Robert J. Hughes, Grand Almoner; Micky Ander, Grand Lodge Editor; Daniel W. Miller, Aide to the Grand Master; John Greenwood, Assistant Grand Chaplain; Paul B. Najarian, Assistant Grand Chaplain; Akram R. Elias, Grand Lodge Photographer; Bernard E. Shultz, Grand Chancellor; Leonard Proden, Senior Grand Steward; Albert M. Smith, Junior Grand Steward; Gerhard Meinzer, Grand Tiler.

Fourth Row: Charles H. Nalls, Grand Pursuivant; Kevin P. Jay, Aide to the Grand Master; George S. Nicol, Grand Standard Bearer; Paul M. Bessel, Grand Sword Bearer; John P. Carter, Assistant Grand Tiler; Paul D. Gleason, Grand Lodge Physician; Bill F. Greschel, Grand Marshal; Neil F. Jawis, Grand Lodge Videographer.

Voice of Freemasonry Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C. 5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016-2524

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