Dear Brethren, District of Columbia, for in addition to forming Lodges that work in other languages, we have been also adding traditional Lodges that work in the English language.
"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues as the spirit gave them utterance.... devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed, and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these who speak, Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia ....we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God." (2nd Chapter, The Acts)
Currently, two more lodges are working under dispensation, with a culture and character of their own. My Brethren, whatever the language; whatever the ritual; whatever the name; we are one and the same. We are Free Masons!
My Brethren the world is changing fast. We are becoming more and more a global community. Freemasonry can no longer exist in cultural isolation. We in the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia seem to have found the formula for the new millennium and in so doing we have been able to build new bridges and strengthen and expand our tested programs, thereby The diversity of our Craft, which is a reflection creating opportunities to bring about greater of the rich heritage of our Masonic past, enlightenment to the 21st Century. provides us the opportunity to draw on all the traditions of antiquity, enhancing the Our Annual Universal Freemasonry universality of the brotherhood and allowing Weekend is an event that offers everyone in men of all cultures, religions, ethnicity and this Grand Jurisdiction a chance to assist in nationality to identify with the Craft as part of developing the spirit of Masonic dedication their own tradition and philosophy. It permits and participation that is so important to our us to bring the Brethren together on the basis fraternity, community, country and, indeed, of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. to humanity. It provides us with an opportunity to promote universal brotherhood And as such it was an act of Brotherly Love and to foster unity in diversity. It brings on the part of the members of this Grand together the Brethren at all the constituent Lodge, that 10 years ago, consistent with the lodges of the Grand Lodge of Washington, universality of the Craft and its ideals and D.C, and those of sister jurisdictions, values, that the creation of the Persian nationally and internationally. speaking Mehr Lodge was made possible. The era-of the so-called bi-lingual lodges, My Brethren, D.C. Masons are gaining a which still continues strongly, was thereby i rebutation as men of principle, cohpass& initiated. and tolerance, and D.C. Masonry is being viewed worldwide as a Masonic stronghold In that evolving process, however, we have of vision and accomplishment. not lost sight of our traditional Lodges in the 1
1
It is exciting to be a part of such significant movements, and it is my prayer that in the prosperity that is apparently now being enjoyed by Masonry abroad, we may find the key to solving those domestic fraternal problems with which we are plagued. While recognizing that the winds of change are blowing strongly, particularly as they relate to possible disunity over membership programs and the organization of the fraternity, we simply must keep our fraternal ship on a fruitful course that will lead, in time, to a renewal of Masonic prosperity. My Brethren, as Grand Master for the time being, I salute you; I am honored and privileged to serve you; and I consider it a privilege to work with you in these exciting and rewarding times.
Mansour Hatefi Grand Master
VOICE OF FREEMASONRY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mansour Hatefi. Grand Master EDlTORlCOMMlTTEE CHAIRMAN Stewart W. Miner, Grand Secretary LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION EDITOR Michelle Vojtush DEPARTMENT HEADSIASSISTANT EDITORS
known solalers, prlmarly casuames ot tne vvar Between tne states, are buried elsewhere within the confines of Arlington Cemetery, but primaril tr:
ASK THE EXPERTS Hugh Y. Bernard MASONIC EDUCATION Paul M. Bessel PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORDS Akram R. Elias THE MASONIC FAMILY Harold Grainger CURRENT INTEREST Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS ELECTED Mansour Hatefi .............................................................................................................................GRANDMASTER DEPUTY GRANDMASTER Grant R. Berning ............................................................................................................ Robert H. Starr ................................................................................................................ SENIORGRAND WARDEN Jules S. Tepper ................................................................................................................ JUNIORGRAND WARDEN Stewart W. Miner, P.G.M ............................................................................................... G R A N DSECRETARY Jerold J. Samet, P.G.M ......................................................................................................... GRAND TREASURER Gordon Lee Ferguson ..................................................................................................... SENIORGRANDDEACON Leonard Proden ................................................................................................................ JUNIORGRANDDEACON GRANDSTEWARD Albert McNair Smith ...................................................................................................... SENIOR JUNIORGRAND STEWARD Paul M. Bessel ............................................................................................................... APPOINTED GRANDMARSHAL Akram R. Elias ........................................................................................................................... David A. Balcom GRAND CHAPLAIN Walter F. Simon ...................... . . .............................................................................. DEPUTY GRANDCHAPLAIN ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN Bilal M. Raschid ....................................................................................................... ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN Hamid Adib-Samiy ................................................................................................... Kwame Acquaah ...................................................................................................... ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN Fernando Castelli ..................................................................................................... ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN George D. Seghers .......................................................................................................... GRANDSWORD BEARER Dara S. Esfandairy ............................. . . ........................................................................... GRANDPURSUIVANT ................................................................................. GRANO STANDARD BEARER John C. Feller ................... . . . HISTORIAN Carl R. LeVine ..........................................................................................................................GRAND GRANDTILER Gerhard Meinzer ............................................................................................................................. George R. Adams, PGM ........................................................... GRAND ORATOR Grand Lecturer Joel R. Kahn ............................................................................................................................. Sheldon I. Rappeport ................................................................................................... DEPUTY GRANO LECTURER Paul D. Gleason ....................................................................................................... GRANDLOOGE PHYSICIAN AIDE TO THE GRANDMASTER Franklin 0.Gayoso ................................................................................................. A I D ETO THE GRANDMASTER Carlos A. Landazuri .......................................... Victor A. Petrossian ............................................................................................... AIDE TO THE GRANDMASTER Sylvester J. Rychlinski .............................................................................................. ASSISTANT GRANDTILER GRAND LODGE SCHOOL TILER Paul T. Sumler .......................................................................................................... George J. Stoklas .................................................................................................. GRANDLODGE PHOTOGRAPHER . . . ................................................................................. GRANO LODGELIAISON John Greenwood .................... GRANDORGANIST Floyd E. Werle ........................................................................................................................ LODGE ALMONER David A. Freed ...................................................................................................G R A N O
FROM THE PAST Carl R. LeVine
The Voice of Freemasonry in the Nation's Capital is an official publication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons (F.A.A.M) of the District of Columbia. Unless otherwise noted, articles appearing in this publication express only the private opinion or assertions of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks only through the Grand Master and the Executive Board, when attested to as official, in writing, by the Grand Secretary. The Editorial Staff invites contributions in the form of informative articles, reports, news and other timely information (of about 500 to 1000 words in length) that broadly relate to Masonic law, lore, customs, history, symbolism, philosophy, responsibility of membership, etiquette, current events, andlor general public interest. When possible, photographs that illustrate these informative articles should accompany the submission. Pieces submitted should be typed, double-spaced and preferably accompanied by a computer disk in a neutral PC format or via e-mail to: dcmasons@aol.corn Articles are subject to editing and, when published become the property of the Grand Lodge, F.A:A.M., of the District of Columbia. No compensation is allowed for any articles, photographs, or other materials submitted for publication. Permission to reprint articles will be granted upon written request to the Editor from recognized Masonic publications and others. When reprinted, articles should note: "Reprinted with permission of the Voice of Freemasonry in the Nation's Capital, (month), (year)." Please direct all correspondence to: Editor: The Voice o f Freemasonry 5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W. Washington, DC 20016-2524
FARAH'S CORNER
SYMBOLS SPEAK
During the past few months, as Mansour has been fulfilling his obligations as Grand Master, I have looked upon evolving events, during which he has had many honors heaped upon him, with great pride. Moreover, I have rejoiced in his every preferment, but never more so than at his testimonial banquet, so ably sponsored by Mehr and Potomac Lodges. On that occasion we were both overcome by the affection, kindness and generosity that was heaped upon us both.
By Kurt Hamrock Jurisdictional Advisor Nations Capital DeMolay
I have especially enjoyed traveling with Mansour as he makes his appointed rounds, here and elsewhere in the Masonic world. In early June it was my privilege to accompany him to Dublin, Ireland, where we attended the festivities associated with the 27!Y anniversary of the founding of that Grand Lodge. On the conclusion of the celebration in Ireland, we flew to London, where we participated in events associated with the Quarterly Communication of the United Grand Lodge of England. Such visits are always rewarding. While on such travels the wives of Grand Masters, despite planned programs and shopping tours, usually encounter extensive down periods when they are left to their own designs. As a working woman who finds time to be a precious commodity, I always use such occasions to catch up with long overdue reading. Thus, while in Ireland and England, I devoured the works of Stephen King in a recent issue of the New Yorker Magazine before launching into my copy of Ravelsfein, a biography written by Saul Bellow. Episodes recorded in those writings caused me to think about some of the experiences that Mansour and I have encountered in life, especially during and after the thunderous and devastating revolutionthat wracked our native land two decades ago. In reviewing those events, which will never be forgotten by either of us, and in contemplating them from the perspective of the lives that we now enjoy, I have come to realize the importance of Freemasonry in his life - and in mine.
As some of you may know, I began taking guitar lessons last year. I take lessons every Monday from an instructor who teaches at the Guitar shop on Connecticut Avenue near M Street. Today was the first day of my law firm's "casual summer," so I was dressed today in a pair of khakis and a polo shirt. The shirt was given to me by Dad Jerry Samet. He got it at a convention he attended, and it has a small "DeMolay - Tulsa, Oklahoma," embroidered on the pocket area. Today, after my guitar lesson, one of the store owners saw me and said that I must be someone who "thought twice before speaking once." It turns out that he was a DeMolay in Panama some years ago. Although we had known each other for almost a year, we had no idea of the common bond we shared. We talked briefly about his experiences in DeMolay, and he was interested to hear about our recent trip to Luray. My experience demonstrates two lessons we should always keep in mind: (1) DeMolay can be found everywhere if you look; and (2) Never pass up an opportunityto spread the word about your fraternity. Wear with pride your DeMolay shirts, caps, rings, and pins, not only to DeMolay events, but whenever you can.
We were able in time to make the best of the bad situation we found ourselves in, and while we might have been able to shape our own destiny, one way or another, the way was made much easier for us by Freemasonry, its works, and the brotherhood that it espouses. Truly, it was in the love and affection of Freemasons and their ladies, so freely and so abundantly given, that we found the encouragement which was necessary for us to go on. Mansour and I sincerely hope that we are worthy of your endless acts of love and affection, and we pray that we will be able to repay a fraction of the great debt of gratitude that we owe to every one of you -our sisters and brothers of the Masonic fraternity. You have made it possible for us to enjoy the benefit of friends and family in a land that we may truly regard as being our adopted home. For all you have done for us, we thank you profusely, and we wish the eternal blessing of God upon all of you. Till we meet again, Farah Hatefi
DeMolay Awards Day. Four members of Nation's Capital DeMolay were awarded the Degree of Chevalier on Sunday, July 9,2000. They were (left to right): John K. Sohn, Kirkland James Byrd, Enrique Jose Montes, and Jonathan M. Harari.
SEMI-ANNUAL COMMUNICATION May 10,2000
The Semi-annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia was opened in ample form by the Grand Master at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Scottish Rite Temple, 2800 16" Street, N.W. At this communication the Grand Lodge acted to adopt:
1. A modifiedfuneral service as developed by the Masonic Funeral Committee; 2. A proposal of the Building Committee to expend $30,000 on a project to replace windows and doors on the first floor of the Grand Lodge Building on MacArthur Boulevard;
3. A resolution to authorize the expenditure of up to $15,000 of Grand Lodge funds annually for a period of three years in support of the Masonic Model program, such funds to be channeled through the Masonic Foundation of D.C.; 4. A motion to authorize the appointment of a five-member committee to identify available properties in downtown D.C. that may be suitable for future use by Masonic Lodges; 5. A report of the Overview Committee and its proposal to authorize the granting of a charter to Nur Lodge, U.D.; and
6. An amendment of the 5" paragraph of the preamble of the Constitution to substitute "Volume of the Sacred Law" for the "Holy Bible." The Grand Lodge, following discussion, declined to adopt proposals to amend Sections 7 and 8 of the Grand Lodge Code. The Grand Master also received informational reports from the Masonic Foundation of D.C.; from the ad hoc committee appointed to study the movement in U S . Grand Lodges to permit business to be conducted in Lodges open in any degree; the Legal Committee; the Recognition Committee; the Past Grand Master's Jewel Committee; the Grand Lodge representatives to MESH Corporation; the Blood Bank Committee; and the President of MESH.
THE WINDS OF CHANGE
On April 17, 2000, the leadership of the lmperial Council of the Shrine of North America hosted a meeting in Tampa, Florida, for the purpose of clarifying the message that had been previously delivered by the lmperial Potentate to the Grand Masters at their conference in Savannah, Georgia. At that meeting action was taken to form a voluntary alliance of Masonic organizations to be called the lntra Fraternal Masonic Alliance. At that time it was stated that the alliance would serve as a central clearing house for Masonic bodies throughout North America and that it would seek to bring unity to Masonry's efforts to build Masonic membership by making Masonic fraternal involvement "meaningful and relevant." This initial attempt to effect a new concept of unity was followed by a second meeting of invited Masonic leaders on May 16,2000, in St. Louis Missouri, where a vision statement was adopted, the name of the organization was changed to Masonic Alliance of North America (MANA), and a statement was issued to placate rising reservations about the purpose of the organization. According to Fred K. Bauer, Grand Master of Massachusetts, MANA is conceived as an organization that is voluntary in nature and, therefore, is made up only of those Masonic organizations that earnestly desire to be a part of a cooperative solution to the problems common to all Alliance members. According to Bauer, it is not the intention of the Alliance to adopt, promote, or encourage: (a) the formation of a national Grand Lodge or parallel system; (b) the undermining or replacement of the Conference of Grand Masters, or any other existing Masonic organization; (c) the provision of mechanisms to facilitate or encourage the takeover of Freemasonry by the Shrine, Scottish Rite, York Rite, or participating Grand Lodges; (d) the creation or encouragement of legislation to undermine the sovereignty of Grand Lodges, or any other organization; (e) the establishment of additional levels of authority within the Masonic system; (f) the adherence of non-member organizations, either to the implementation of Masonic Alliance strategies, or as a prerequisite for membership in the Alliance, and (g) the creation of any forum for controversy with non-participants in the Alliance. Since the conclusion of the St. Louis meetings there has been very little progress to note relative to the realization and implementationof ideas proposed on behalf of the Masonic Alliance of North America. In fact, subsequent developments in the sessions of the lmperial Shrine, which has opted to drastically modify its membership requirements by eliminating the necessity for Shrine candidates to complete the degrees offered in either the Scottish or the York Rites, has put a damper on the Masonic Alliance proposal. This raises two new questions. Will the action of the lmperial Council benefit the Shrine? Will it harm the rites? Only time will tell.
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GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY
On April 15, 2000, Marvin E. Fowler celebrated the 50th anniversary of his service as Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia. At a banquet in his honor at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C., where Marvin presented a number of Masons with their 50-year veteran's pins, the Grand Secretary, Stewart W. Miner, spoke of Marvin E. Fowler, a great Mason. His message follows.
Masonic body, subordinate or Grand. In the process he took no short cuts, and because he didn't, the record that he compiled may never be equaled.
In the Grand Lodge Proceedings where Marvin's performance as Grand Master is preserved, one may read these prophetic words: , "Possessed of a pleasing personality, an unsurpassed enthusiasm for Masonry and tireless energy, he (Marvin Fowler) devoted himself to the duties of Grand Master with a diligence and clear- headedness that evoked the applause of his brethren and admiration of his William Shakespeare once wrote that some men are born great; associates. One of our young Grand Masters, he leaves the Grand some achieve greatness; and some have greatness thrust upon East at the age of 46, full of vigor and readiness for further Masonic them. At the time that he penned those words, Shakespeare must service, and with the fervent hope of his countless friends and have had in mind someone like Marvin Fowler, a man who by word admirers that he may be spared for many years in enjoyment of the and deed has achieved unusual Masonic greatness and at the same fruits of his labors in the vineyards of Masonry." Someone was very time has made the fraternity great. Tonight, Marvin, we salute you, clairvoyant. for what you have been, for what your have done, and for what you are - a Master Mason who has ministeredwithout hesitation, through At any rate knowledge of Marvin's performance as Grand Master Freemasonry, to the continuing needs of a demanding and imperfect could not be confined to the District of Columbia, and as Masons throughout the nation, and internationally, came to fully appreciate society. his talents and leadership potential, he was called upon to actively To be born great is an act of providence, and it is clearly providential support, work in, and oftentimes lead Masonic movements of national that Marvin Fowler was endowed by his Creator with unusual intellect, andlor international import. In so doing he gave credence to the physical stamina, an inquisitive mind, a pleasant personality, and bard's sage observation that greatness is sometimes thrust upon an extraordinary appreciation of his personal obligation to properly men. In Marvin's case, this thrust was incessant. use all of God's gifts. Employing wisely that with which he was endowed, he pursued the finer things in life throughout his youth, Unfortunately our banquet program does not tell the complete story and in his search for an explanation of the meaning of life, he soon of Marvin's Masonic achievements. I regret and apologize for the discovered the Order of DeMolay, which he has served, in one fact that a number of significant Masonic organizations in which he capacity or another, for almost 80 years. Indisputably, Marvin Fowler had and has a keen interest were inadvertently omitted. Mention could and should be made, for example, of his service as a was born to be great. Sovereign of St. Simeon Stylites Conclave of the Red Cross of Also indisputable is that Marvin has achieved greatness, not because Constantine; as Prior of Francis Scott Key Priory No. 14, KYCH, of his endowment, but because of his apt application of God-given and as Grand Master General of Convent General, KYCH (1965); talents, always facing the challenges of life with confidence and as Grand Master, Allied Masonic Degrees; as Grand Chancellor, optimism. Within the fraternity in this jurisdiction he has been busy Grand College of Rites; as Grand Preceptor, Grand College of for 70 years, accepting and serving with distinction every major America, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests; and as Great Chief of the Knight Masons of America in 1980. For these omissions, and possibly others, we are sorry. Through the years many Masonic Bodies, Grand and otherwise, in recognition of Brother Fowler's greatness, have heaped many honors and awards upon him. For years he has been the Grand Representativeof the United Grand Lodge of England near the Grand Lodge of D.C., as well as the Grand Representative of the Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of Maryland, and the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of Texas near their counterpart bodies in Washington, D.C. He has been designated, among other things, as a Kentucky Colonel, an Arkansas Traveler, and an honorary citizen of Maryland and Georgia.
Fowler Testimonial. Steward W. Miner, Grand Secretary, and Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master, greet the guest of honor, Marvin E. Fowler, on his "golden anniversary."
Among the many special awards of unusual significance that have been conferred upon him are the Distinguished Service Medal of the District of Columbia; the Henry Price Medal of Massachusetts; the Henry Johnson Medal of New York; the Joshua Hayden
Drummond Award of Maine; the Albert Gallatin Mackey Medal of never been idle. The completion of every task set before him South Carolina, the Daniel Cox Medal of New Jersey; and now, as provided the foundation on which to launch yet another challenge. of tonight, the Grand Lodge of Maryland is awarding him its most And through it all, Marvin continually enunciated what he believed were the essentials of life - concerns about the interprestigious award, the Thomas J. Shryock relationships of men; concerns about how man uses Medal. or misuses his intellectualresources; concern about how men in the Masonic fraternity act, individually Neither time nor your patience will permit a and collectively; and how people throughout the full recitation of the kind of service that Marvin world adapt to life styles that are subject to constant rendered the institutions that have won his change. In his report to the Grand Lodge in 1950, favor, but it may be well to dwell a moment or for example, he observed that: two on the excellence of his service as Grand Master in 1950. He presided over a Grand "We are not alarmed about the condition of our craft Lodge that included 48 Lodges and 24,876 ... but we are fearful for the future of the human race. Masons. During that year 906 men were raised Only a few short years ago we congratulated to the Sublime Degree and another 154 were ourselves that peace had been restored to the world affiliated during his term. Also during the year ,iy after its most bloody conflict. Men of great vision the Grand Lodge laid two church cornerstones Fowler Testimonial, Robert and dedicated the lnfirmary Building at the speakinsforMasonsraisedin 1950,greetsPGM and lofty ideals sought to discover the means with which to end warfare for all time, and many believed Masonic and Eastern Star Home. The year Fowler and GM Hatefi. 1950 was, in the words of Sinatra, "a very good year," one that they were successful in their endeavors. Yet warfare never ceased. Today, as we meet, our nation is in a state of emergency, and we launched Marvin's national and international career as a Mason. are engaged in what may prove to be our most crucial struggle for It wasn't long thereafter (1952) that Marvin became Grand High freedom. As Masons and loyal citizens of a free land, we are obliged Priest of D.C. and a year after that, Provincial Grand Master of the to aid in this struggle against tyranny and oppression. As we meet in Royal Order of Scotland. Subsequently, of course, he also served peace and security, let us be mindful that unscrupulous politicians terms as Most IllustriousGrand Master of Cryptic Masons, as Grand with uncontrolled ambitions to rule the world would deny us our Commander of Knights Templar of the District of Columbia, as an heritage as Masons and as free men. Let us work and pray for the appointed officer in the General Grand Chapter and the General day when truth and justice will prevail throughout the world." Grand Council, and as Grand Master of the Grand Encampment, Knights Templar of the U.S.A. In your programs you will find this That his concern about these matters was not momentary is indicated record, along with the names of those with whom he served. Others in his reports to the other Grand Bodies that he served. In each of who are with us tonight will speak briefly of his association with these them these basic themes were repeated again and again over the years, and in every instance, by his words and deeds, he effectively bodies. demonstrated his concern for friendship, morality, and brotherly love, Throughout the years Marvin's greatness has been in large part and for the cardinal virtues, temperance, fortitude, prudence, and achieved by his own efforts, and in consequence of his inability, or justice. To Marvin, these words totally express his conception of rather unwillingness, to say no to his contemporaries, one task how men should live and what they should seek in life. inevitably led to another over the years. Hence, he has never been without Masonic work, he has never been unemployed, and he has I should like to conclude by sharing with you some of Marvin's remarks at the dedication of the Infirmary Building at the Masonic and Eastern Star Home. It says much about his outlook on the office of Grand Master. On that occasion he is quoted as saying: "Recently, I was told that a Grand Master should have the curiosity of a cat, the tenacity of a bulldog, the determination of a taxicab driver, the diplomacy of a wayward husband, the patience of a self-sacrificing wife, the enthusiasm of a coed, the friendliness of a child, the good humor of an idiot, the simplicity of a jackass, the assurance of a college boy, and the tireless energy of a bill collector. I'm sure that I fall short in some of these qualification, but today I am curious, curious as a cat!"
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Fowler Testimonial. First Row: Grand Master Hatefi, Past Grand Master Fowler, and Worshipful Master Donald Andrews. Back Row: Members of LaFayette-Dupont Lodge No. 19.
While these words were spoken 50 years ago, I am sure that Marvin, at age 96, is still "curious as a cat!"
the sacred belief in free will and the right of people to govern themselves.
'
On July 4,2000, Freemasons of the Grand Lodge of Washington, DC took pride in I celebrating the birth of our nation by participating in the Palisades Community's sponsored festivities. At about 8:00 am, Masters and Wardens of the year 2000, along with other Brethren led by Paul Gleason, President of the Masters and Wardens Association, arrived at the Palisades Recreation Center to cook more than 3,000 hot dogs for the participants in the celebration.
!
Palisades Parade. Grand Master Hatefi waves the DC Flag.
"HUMANITY HAS FINALLY ACHIEVE[ VICTORY! LIBERTY HAS FOUND A HOME!" Marquis De LaFayette
Our parading Brethren were led by our Grand Master, Mansour Hatefi, who was accompanied by the Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons, John Vergalla, the Grand Master of Cryptic Masons, Brother F. William Hirshiser, the Grand Commander of Knights Templar, Gerald W. Peeters, the District Deputy Supreme Tall Cedar, Norman L. Clark, and the Monarch of the Fudda Nabi Grotto, Bruce A. Dehlin.
As we strolled down the one-mile parade route carrying US and DC flags, led by a Color Guard provided by the Tall Cedars, we were cheered by thousands of With those words, our late Brother, th onlookers. Clowns, also provided by the Marquis de LaFayette, echoed th sentiments of Freemasons througho~ Tall Cedars, were a big hit with the kids! Europe who rejoiced at the Declaration ( The parade ended at the Recreational lndependence of the United States on Jul Center. Thus, in our own small yet special 4, 1776. A Masonically inspired experimer way, DC Masons again commemorated in government was launched 224 years agc an act that historians will forever recall as one that transformed the course of human It was an experiment that would bring fort history by giving Liberty a Home through the a New World Order for humanity, based o By Akram R. Elias Grand Marshal
I
Palisades Parade. Part of the Grand Lodge contingent.
Palisades Parade. Mayor ~nthOnyWilliams and Grand Master Hatefi.
Declaration of lndependence of the United States of America on July 4, 1776. We cherish that declaration, that date, and the opportunity we have each year to "wave the flag of independence." Our input into the festivities earned the plaudits of Anne Ourand, Palisades Citizens Association, who wrote the Grand Master these words of appreciation: "On behalf of the entire Palisades Citizens Association, I would like to thank you for providing the marching units and for cooking all those hotdogs! The parade and picnic were a tremendous success this year, and we couldn't have done it without your support. We hope to see you next year too."
"LET THERE BE LIGHT ... IN THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO AND THERE WAS LIGHT"
...
By Akram R. Elias Grand Marshal On June 15, 2000, history was made in the Kingdom of Morocco, where Freemasons from around the world, including the United States, came to celebrate the establishment of the first regular Grand Lodge of Freemasonry in an Arab country. The Grande Loge Nationale Franqaise (GLNF) consecrated the Grand Lodge of the Kingdom of Morocco, and in so doing, brought Masonic Light into an area where darkness had previously prevailed. This event is of further historical importance because the newly installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Kingdom of Morocco, a Jew , heads Masonry in an Islamic country that is distinguished by its openness to non-Muslim religions and ethnic
New Grand Lodge Consecrated. Grand Master Hatefi, accompanied by Akram Elias, Grand Marshal, and Robert Heyat, Chairman of the International Relations Committee, participated in the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of the Kingdom of Morocco.
groups. For example, during World War II the Vichy Government in occupied France ordered the arrest of all Jews in French-helc territories, including Morocco. Kin$ Mohamed V of Morocco refused to obey the order and quite bluntly told the Frencl collaborating authorities that the order woulc
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS HONORED At the Semi-Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of lran (in exile), convened in the temple of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts on Saturday, April 8,2000, our Grand Master and our Grand Secretary were highly honored by the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Iran, Most Worshipful Mozafar Jandaghi. The title of Honorary Grand Master was
conferred on Most Worshipful Mansour Hatefi, a past master of a lodge holden to the Grand Lodge of Iran. On this occasion Most Worshipful Stewart W. Miner was afforded honorary membership in the Grand Lodge of lran with the title of Honorary Grand Secretary. Both were presented certificates proclaiming the honors and titles thus conferred.
Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries at Semi-annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Iran(in exile) 2000. Lefl to right: Nematollah Raeen, Grand Secretary of Grand Lodge of Iran, Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master of Grand Lodge of D.C., Mozafar Jandagh~,Grand Master of Grand Lodge of Iran, Stewart W. M~ner,Grand Secretary of Grand Lodge of D.C
have to be executed "over my dead body" because "all Moroccan nationals, irrespective of their faith, are my subjects." To embody this spirit of true Brotherhood, the Seal of the Grand Lodge of the Kingdom of Morocco has the Square and Compasses over the Koran, Bible and Torah, the Holy Books of the three main monotheistic religions. While more than twelve Grand Lodges from around the world were in attendance at Marrakesh, the presence of Masons hailing from the United States was of great significance, symbolically, and was recognized as such. As the Kingdom of Morocco was the first country to recognize the Independence of the United States, our Brothers in Morocco were extremely touched by the presence of representatives of the Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania. What a powerful symbolism! The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia was represented at this consecration by our Grand Master, the Chairman of the International Relations Committee, and by the Grand Marshal.
MEMORIAL DAY - 2000 ARLINGTON CEMETERY
of World War I, World War II, the Korear War, and most recently, of Viet Nam.
By Mansour Hatefi Grand Master
In this cemetery, administered by the U S Army, more than 240,000 veterans, thei~ dependents, and political leaders of the United States rest in peace. Americans interred here include William Jennings Brian Presidents William Howard Tafi and John F. Kennedy; John Kennedy's brother, Robert, Generals Philip H. Sheridan, John J. Pershing, and Omar N. Bradley; bacteriologist Major Walter Reed; explorers Admiral Robert E. Peary and Mattheh Henson; the American boxer, Joe Louis; and a host of men and women of every rank and service. Heading the list, of course, is the original unknown, whose tomb carries the inscription: "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God."
Today, my distinguished and cherished friends, my brothers of the Masonic Order, and ladies, we stand on hallowed ground, in a place reserved for those who in life distinguished themselves by defending and developing this nation. Resting here are the remains of men and women of all races and of all religions,joined together in life by their defense of freedom and democracy and united in death by a grateful nation committed to the proposition that we are all created equal and endowed by our Creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In this knowledge, let us rejoice. Honoring the unknown soldiers of the world is an achievement of the now concluded 20th century. In that time frame an unknown soldier was interred in Great Britain, in Westminster Abbey; in France under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris; at the base of the Colonnade of the Congress in Brussels, Belgium; in front of the monument of Victor Emanuel II in Rome, Italy; and here in this country, in Arlington, Virginia, the unknowns
From Arlington House, the former mansion of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, one can look out over the panorama of official ~fficesand institutions, including the White House and the Congress of the United States, where political and social leaders of this nation have spoken to the world of prin3ples that have shaped the course of human events for more than two centuries. And 'rom the vantage point of downtown Washngton, on a clear day, one is able to distinguish Lee Mansion and the eternal flame on John Kennedy'sgrave, both of which point the way to the permanent residencesof those who have crossed the river and thereby laid down their lives, in defense of American concepts of principle, justice, and righteousness.
Tomb of the Unknown. Grand Master Hatefi, Assisted by Grand High Priest, John Vergalla, and SGlG Charles Iverson, present wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
It is right and proper that on this Memorial Day Weekend in the year 2000, when we have gathered together as Masons to proclaim our intent that this fraternity continue to strive for that blissful state wherein men and women everywhere may live in peace and harmony, that we make that intention known here in Arlington Cemetery; here perhaps more so than at any other place on earth, the dead, of every race, creed, and religion, emphatically
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Tomb of the Unknown. At this memorial the tombs of unknown American heroes are guarded every minute of every day by select members of the Thlrd Infantry
speak to the living of the virtues to be found in true brotherhood, in living as the Supreme Architect would have us live, without bias, without malice, and without intent to seek either favor or position as we strive to build a lasting Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. It is in this setting then that on this special occasion, when we look to the past, that we also look to the future by pledging ourselves anew to that pleasant task of uniting as Masons to promote that way of life, that grand design of being happy and communicatinghappiness, whereby not only Masons, but mankind as a whole, may live in peace, harmony, and eternal bliss. So mote it be.
Note: The above remarks of the Grand Master were addressed to the Masons and members of the Masonicfamily who accompanied him on Saturday, May 27, 2000 when he placed a wreath at the tombs of the Unknown Soldiers of the
A CELEBRATION OF UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD
By Akram R. Elias Grand Marshal Saturday, May 27,2000
On the morning of Saturday, May 27, 2000, at the Scottish Rite Temple, 113 Brethren, representing 31 of our 34 Lodges, came together in the true Masonic spirit of E PLURIBUS UNUM to take part in a unique Masonic gathering. On that occasion we witnessed a symphony of language (English, Armenian, Cherokee, French, German, Persian, Spanish and Turkish) that was embellished by selections of 18thCentury Masonic Music. Participating were 19 Grand Lodge Officers, nine Past Grand Masters, and the heads of Almas Temple of the Shrine, the Scottish Rite of the Valley of Washington, the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of the District of Columbia, and the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the District of Columbia. In addition, Brethren and Grand Lodge Officers from the Most Worshipful Grand Lodges of France, Romania and Turkey were present. "Let Us Remember.. ."
".... So We Can Celebrate" Having done our Lodge work as Masons in the morning, and having paid homage in the afternoon to the service men and women who gave their lives to keep us free, we then came together again in the evening to enjoy the festive board. Some170 Masons, their spouses, and their friends gathered at the Capital Hilton to break bread and listen to musical selections from around the world played by an ensemble led by Brother Roy Beyer of Arminius Lodge No. 25.
Nur Lodge Consecration. Durmg Universal Brotherhood Weekend, Nur Lodge 2000 was consecrated. Pictured are the officers of the Lodge, the Grand Master, and guests.
Given the solemn occasion of Memorial Day, the theme of the weekend centered on remembrance and celebration. By committing the ultimate sacrifice, American service men and women have made an immense contribution to Freemasons' most precious cause Liberty! A Freemason - i.e. "Free Builder" - cannot fulfill his destiny without that necessary ingredient we call "Freedom". Following the Universal Lodge meeting, and in spite of heavy rain, 83 Brethren proceeded to Arlington National Cemetery to pay homage to and remember those who committed the ultimate sacrifice to preserve Freedom. Nobles of the Legion of Honor of Almas Temple, carrying the colors, led us to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in a procession enriched by the colorful regalia of the various Masonic bodies. At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, our Grand Master, Mansour Hatefi, accompanied by the Potentate of Almas Temple, William M. Lanham, the Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Scottish Rite in our Valley, Charles S. Iversen, and the Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons, John Vergalla, laid a wreath contributed by the Brethren of Washington Daylight Lodge No. 14. Following the wreath-laying ceremony,the Masons present participated in a solemn Masonic Memorial Service in which mesages were delivered by our Grand Master and our Grand Lodge Orator. This service was concluded by a prayer offered by Kwame Acquaah, Assistant Grand Chaplain, and by taps played by Robert E. Redding.
Grand Lodge Library and Museum. In the ongoing effort to collect and record information of historical significance, Robert F. Drechsler, Grand Lodge Archivist, is collecting lodge bulletins and printed programs of significant events. Shown here is a part of the vaulted repository of such information collected to date. All contributions of like materials, Brother Drechsler states, are acknowledged, catalogued, and recorded prior to deposit in the Grand Lodge collection.
275TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNICATION GRAND LODGE OF IRELAND The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and Grand Secretary attended the Grand Lodge of Ireland in Dublin on June 7-9,2000 for the 275" anniversary of that Grand Lodge. Also in attendance were Past Grand Masters William T. Jenkins, Jerold J. Samet, and Dan L Frederick, and Past Masters Akram R. Elias and Michael L. Dixon. While there the D.C. delegation attended a gala concert of Masonic music at the National Concert Hall; the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, convened on the premises of the Royal Dublin Society; a festive dinner at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin; and a day-long trip to Birr Castle, home of the first Grand Master of Ireland, Richard, the first Earl of Ross. Seated at the head table for the celebration dinner were the Grand Masters of England, Scotland, and Ireland, each of whom offered meaningful commentaries on the development of Freemasonry in their respective countries and in the world as a with the Grand Master of Scotland sagely observing that the occupants of the British Isles had, by their work since1717, taken Freemasonry "around the world."
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Grand Lodge of Ireland Banquet. Seated (let to right) are: Mr. Templeton; M.W. Bra, H.R.H., the Duke of Kent, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England; M.W. Bro. Darwin H. Templeton, Grand Master of lreland; and Brother Archibald Donald Orr Ewing, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Scotland. Standing are several members of the D.C. delegation present on this historic occasion.
Brother George Moyer is survived by his wife, Beryl, his son Mark, daughterin-law Theresa, and by Mark, Lisa, and Kimberly, grandchildren. He is also survived by a niece, Jean Houghton, daughter of his deceased brother Scott. Masonic services were conducted by the Grand Lodge at the Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home on July 27, 2000 at 8:00 p.m., with the Master's oration being delivered by Grand Master Mansour Hatefi. The religious service was conducted at the same location on Friday, July 28 at 10:OO a.m., with the Rev. David Balcom officiating. Intermentwas at the George Washington Cemetery, Adelphi, MD. Masonic Record IS raised in Petworth Lodge No. 47 on March 16,1950, served Brother Moy that Lodge as Master in 1957, and subsequently, for many years, as Treasurer. He was appointed Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge in 1971, elected Junior Grand Steward in 1972, and progressed through the line to become Grand Master on December 27,1978. Brother Moyer was a loyal and devoted member of Columbia Chapter No. 1, Triangle council No. 3, and Columbia Commandery No. 2 of the York Rite Bodies. He held the 33rddegree in the Scottish Rite Bodies of D.C., where for many years he conducted the Rose Croix Ceremony. He was also an active member of Almas Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.; of Montgomery Forest No. 134, Tall Cedars of Lebanon; the Red Cross of Constantine; the Royal Order of Scotland; the Knight Masons of Maryland; and a host of Masonic clubs and associations.
George Franklin Moyer was a Mason's Mason, a brother who took pride in the fulfillment of his obligations.
Statue of Liberty was featured. Previously, the modern American flag and a soaring eagle had been highlighted on floats Stanley L. Channon, Chairman of the Grand sponsored by america's Freemasons. "We Lodge of California Rose Parade Committee, wish to remind viewers that Freemasons has announced that the theme of the 2001 played a large part in the founding of Rose Bowl Parade will be the "Fabric of America," Channon, a Past Grand Master of America." The Masonic Float in that parade California, states. will be titled "Let Freedom Ring" and will feature a replica of the Liberty Bell as the The bell on the float is similar in size to the centerpiece, as well as the original 13-star original bell which was 12 feet in flag and a scroll depicting the Constitution. circumference and weighed 2,080 pounds, On each side of the Constitution there will but it will be made from a reinforced wire be a DeMolay, a Job's Daughter, and a structure covered with foam as a base for Rainbow Girl symbolically guarding the decorations. These decorations will consist Constitution and ensuring its constinued use of a pine, paper, and redwood bark to create the color and highlights according to Bill in the future. Lofthouse, designer of the float. White The 2001 Float continues the patriotic carnation and gladiolus pedals, along wit1 Masonic message of last year when the dried and fresh materials, will also be used. 2001 ROSE BOWL PARADE MASONIC FLOAT
The famous crack Hold High The Torch -The Statue of Liberty was the focus which resultedwhen the of the 2000 Family of Freemasonry float in the Rose Parade. bell was tolled in 1835 at the funeral of Chief Justice John Marshall will be clearly visible. The ink well at the front of the float and the quill will be made from seaweed, dried materials, white orchids, dried straw flowers, and fresh carnation petals.
Ring That Bell. The Liberty Bell will dominate the Family of Freemasonry float in the 2001 Rose Parade.
Masons throughout the world are asked to contribute to the cost of sponsoring the Family of Freemasonryfloat. You may do so by sending your donations, made payable to Rose parade Masonic Float, to Donald A. Journey, Treasurer, 608 Los Olivos Drive, San Gabriel, CA 917751617. Unfortunately, however, contributions are not tax deductible.
MASONIC FOUNDATION OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS YEAR 2000
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Banneker High Banneker High Banneker High Banneker High Banneker High Bell Multicultural High Bell Multicultural High Cardozo High Without Walls High
Myesha G. Carter Ponquiose D. Crawford, Jr. Gregory Donell Fletcher, I1 Marvel Norwood Tomeca Michelle Turner Anthony Utley Tiarra Nicole Crossland Leslie Alvarez
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GRAND MASTER'S TESTIMONIAL
Potomac Lodge No. 5 and Mehr Lodge No. 90 joined forces to present a fabulous testimonial banquet in honor of our Grand Master, Mansour Hatefi. Close to 400 Masons and their guests were on handfor this celebration, offered on Saturday, June 24, at the Tyson's Corner Marriott in Vienna, Virginia. Under the direction of the Master of Ceremonies, the Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of D.C., Akram R. Elias, the evening was very enjoyable because the program was well developed, rich in content and style, and paced in such a way to keep the interest of the audience. Music by Charles C. Corrado and his ensemble kept folks dancing for most of the evening. The color scheme of red, white and green recognized our Grand Master's Persian heritage. During the course of the evening the Master of Ceremonies proposed a number of toasts to the Grand Master, the Past Grand Masters, and the Grand Master's lady, Farah, in each of which significant passages from the works of Omar Khayyam, the great Persian poet, were recalled. Dan P. Wynne Jr, Worshipful Master of Potomac Lodge No. 5, and Sassan Soheili, Worshipful Master of Mehr Lodge No. 90, welcomed everyone on behalf of the brethren of their respective Lodges. Following the invocation by Hamid Samiy, Assistant Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of D.C., Captain Gerald W-Peeters, USNR, and Grand Commander of the Knights Templar of D.C., led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of our country, following which the music ensemble gave a wonderful rendition of our National Anthem. A very special welcome was extended to our Grand Master by Willie H. Griffin, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. &A.M. PHA, of the District of Columbia. He was accompanied by his lady Marti; John Ellington, Deputy Grand Master of Prince Hall; Nathaniel Adams, Past Grand Master of Prince Hall; and a number of other Prince Hall brethren. A special welcome was extended to Marvin Fowler, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of D.C., and his lady Roberta, who were greeted with a standing ovation. Special thanks were afforded Dean Clatterbuck, Secretary and Past Master of Potomac Lodge No. 5, and James D. Martin Ill, also a Past Master of Potomac Lodge No. 5, for their superb planning effort. At around desert time, Brothers Wynne and Soheili made a floral presentation to First Lady Farah and also paid tribute to the Grand Master, on behalf of their separate Lodges, focusing primarily on Most Worshipful Hatefi's service to the Craft, here and abroad. Grand Master Hatefi responded briefly but powerfully by retracing his Masonic career in the Grand Lodge of DC and by thanking all the Brethren for having extended to him the opportunity to serve as their Grand Master. The Grand Master then asked all members of Potomac Lodge No. 5 and Mehr Lodge No. 90 to rise and thanked
them profusely for their unrelenting support of him and of our Grand Lodge. In bringing the evening to a close Brother Hamid Samiy offered the benediction and then Akram Elias read the following verses to remind the Brethren of the central role that tolerance plays in our Craft. "Then to fhe rolling Heaven itself l cried, Asking, "What lamp had destiny to guide Her little children stumbling in the dark?" And - "A blind understanding!" Heaven replied. - Omar Khayyam -
2000 GrandVisitati Schedule Thursday, Sept. 7 ................................ Pythagoras Lodge of Research Thursday, Sept. 14 ........................................
Hiram-Takoma #1C
Tuesday, Sept. 19 ............................ Temple-Noyes-Cathedral#32 Saturday, Sept. 23 .................................Alianza Frat'l Americana #92 Lodge of the Nine Muses #I776 Wednesday, Sept. 27 ...............................
NaPI-Stans.-Dawson # I 2 Petworth #47
Monday, Oct. 2 ................... . . ............................. Anacostia 821 Convass B. Dean Memorial Wednesday, Oct. 4 ............................................
Albert Pike #33 Magnolia #53
. . . ..... S. Gompers-B, Franklin #45
Tuesday, Oct. 10 .......................
East Gaje #34 Wednesday, Oct. 18 .......................................... Osiris-Pentalpha #23 Arminius #25 Saturday, Oct. 21 ..................................
Washington Daylight #I4 Sojourner Kilwinning #I798
Wednesday, Nov. 1 ....................................... Thursday, Nov. 9 .......................................
Justice-Columiba #3 Harmony # I 7 LaFayette-Dupont #I9 Naval #4
Friday, Nov. 10 ..............................................................
Haystan #94 Massis #99 Nur #2000
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schools to train others and implement the program. Follow-up booster training for the participants, as well as training for other school administrators and teachers is a part The Masons of DC can be proud that, unde~ of the continuing support program. the leadership of Grand Master Hatefi, wc have established the Masonic Mode Larry Chisholm, the Executive Director of the Student Assistance Training Program in thc National Masonic Foundation for Children District of Columbia. With the support of thc gave instrumental guidance and "push" to get individual lodges and the Grand Lodge, thi: the DC program off the ground. He and his program promises to grow and flourish as i. enthusiastic and able assistant, Catherine has in other jurisdictions throughout America OIMalley, sent information and registration forms to every DC school, With follow up On the morning of June 26, a group of thirt) calls and confirmation letters, the initial District of Columbia school system trainees program had participation from ten DC including teachers, counselors, detentior schools, including: Hearst Elementary coordinators and principals, convened in the School, Aiton Elementary School, Beers Refectory of the Scottish Rite Temple. Aftel Elementary School, Barney Elementary a light continental breakfast, the grour School, Kenilworth Elementary School, Orr embarked on three days of informative Elementary School, Turner Middle School, intense, emotional and inspiring training anc Winston Educational Center, Hart Middle School and the Moor Academy High School. team building.
DC KICKS OFF THE MASONIC MODEL STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TRAINING
The subject matter was critically important How do school personnel identify childrer and young adults who are "at-risk" o, succumbing to drug and alcohol addiction and related problems such as teer pregnancy, violence, street ganc involvement, depression and suicide? HOM do you intervene and prevent these childrer from going down the wrong path? The key point addressed is prevention:while awareness informs the community of the problem, treatment programs provide assistance to those already addicted, and enforcement activities curb the supplies and penalize suppliers, only prevention stops use and abuse before it can get started.
For the DC session, the inspirational and motivationaltrainers (and trainers in training) included: Thomas Stecher (Lead Trainer), Harold Carter, Cheri Taylor-Mearhoff, Peggy Tyler and Thelma Napolean-Smith. Coordination of the three-day training was planned and directed by David Freed, Grand Almoner and Chairman of the Grand Lodge Charity Committee for 2000. According to Dave, "this training session was truly an inspirational experience where I could see Masonry in DC making a solid, visible, concrete contribution to a wide sector of the community, with both financial support, and hands on assistance."
Brother Freed was enthusiastically assisted by his Masonic Assistant Coordinators, The intensive training involves practice Morad Eghbal (No. 5); Paul Bessel (No. 5); sessions designed to simulate real events, Al Boswell (No. 1); Phil Miller (No. 1); Koray along with presentation on such subjects as Kotan (No. 1); Marion K. Warner (No. 7). "Characteristics of an Addictive Family," Appreciation is also extended to the Scottish "Pharmacological Effects of Drugs," Rite, particularly Sam Harris and Charles "Coordination with Existing Drug Treatment lverson for making possible the use of the Programs," Building a Core Team" and Scottish Rite Temple for this training. "Action Planning for Successful Implementation." Training included lectures, The Brethren of DC are due thanks for reading, case studies and team building supporting this program through their exercises. It also included implementation Lodges, the Grand Lodge, the affiiated packets and extensive sample forms for use bodies, and by individual contributions. by the Core Team upon their return to their
How did the first session go? Quotes from participants and coordinators attest to the success of the first session of the DC Masonic Model Program: From Trainees: "Excellent workshop, very informative, helpful and useful. The presenterswere well prepared and knowledgeable, relating personal experiences which gave the workshop a personal atmosphere."
- Ms. Lorraine Parker-Miller, Turner Elementary School
"It is a really important course and I suggest that we have another one soon to involve more teachers and principals. Thank you very much. God bless you all for the job well done."
- Ms. Sara Anthony, Hart Middle School
From a Mason who Assisted: "Thank you for including our trio from Federal Lodge in you [Masonic Model] Program as assistants. A small role but one that gave each of us a chance to learn and experience the importance of the project first hand. Personally I consider identifying at-risk kids to be a top priority for it is so easy for a child to go astray ... The trainer was truly motivational from [his] first words ... His personal experience with his own three :hildren adds even more credibility to a very xedible person. I was touched and moved ; md to believe that as Masons we have a jreat opportunity to make a real difference ~ysponsoring this program as much as we Ire able. This was the first sponsorship and t went well from all indications."
- A1 Boswell, Master, Federal Lodge No. I
THE THREE RINGS
Each son produced his ring and claimed to be head of the family. There was confusion, There was a man in olden times who received there was dispute, there was a trial, and each a ring of very priceless worth. It had the one went to law to prove that he had the true peculiar power of making he who owned it ring. The judge said he could not decide beloved of God and man. He prized it very since the old man himself had been unable highly and adopted the rule that it should to distinguish the true ring from the descend to the son whom he loved best, the substitutes, and was about to dismiss the son most deserving of love, whether he be case undecided. "But hold," he said, "you the oldest or the youngest or anywhere in say that the true ring has the power to make him who wears it beloved of God and man? between. Let that decide. Which one of you is best He enjoyed upon his successors to follow the beloved by the other two?" But there was same course, and so from generation to no answer. generation, hundreds of years passed by. At last it came to a sire who had three sons "What? Are you silent? Does the ring work equally loved, and he could not decide which mly upon yourself and produce love in your should be entitled to the ring. He could not Dwn heart for yourself, but does not cause bring himself to decide one way or the other. you to love your neighbor? Then all of your And so in pious weakness he promised the rings are false! The true ring has been lost!" ring to each one as that one chanced to be with him and his love for that son then found The judge continued, "Each one of you says expression. [hat he has received that ring from his father. Then each of you go on in the faith that your Thus each son in turn had the promise of the ?ing is the true one, and so live that it will ring, the other two sons not being present to xoduce what the true ring is expected to influence the father's judgment. That went on xoduce - love. So live and continue to live, for years, and the father could not bring :hat when in years to come, when thousands himself to decide on any particular son. But )f years, perhaps, shall have passed and the death approached and something must be nessage has sunk into the hearts of your done. So he called a skilled jeweler and gave :hildrenls children, so that perfect love exists him instructions to make two rings exactly like jmong you all, come again to the judgement the first so they could not be told apart. The seat. A wiser judge than I will decide." jeweler succeeded in the task assigned him and brought his work to the old man who could Source: 1934 Proceedings of the Conference not tell, himself, which was the true ring. Then )f the Masonic Grand Secretaries of the in turn he called each son and gave him a Jnited States ring. Then he died.
14*Annual Educational Conference On Friday, September 15,2000, Masons holden to the Grand Lodge of D.C. will gather again at the Northern Virginia 4H Educational Center in Front Royal, Virginia, to review the status of Freemasonry in our nation's capital, to receive the plans of our Deputy Grand Master for 2001, and to participate in a number of provocative problem-solving workshops. These conferences have been held annually at this site since they were initiated, in 1987, by the then Grand Master, L. Robert Baker. Each year the Conference features a guest speaker who is not directly connected with the Grand Lodge of D.C. This is by design in the hope that those in attendance may profit from the experiences of Masons who work fraternally elsewhere. This year we will receive William G. Selsam, President of Selsam Management, a consulting firm. Our Deputy Grand Master declares that Selsam, an established motivational speaker of national reputation, has an abiding interest in Freemasonry. The program for this year has been developed by the Masonic Education and Service Committee under the direction of co-ch Ander and Gordon L
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AEGEAN ODYSSEY Visit Athens and Istanbul and sail around the Aegean Islands. Call (800) 777-4224
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