The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 17 No. 3 by The Grand Lodge, FAAM of Washington, DC

The Uoice of freemasonry

From the Grand Master M K Brother Mansour Hate3 "several invitations of an informal nature ... from many quarters," he viewed them with favor and "humbly accepted the entreaties and crossed the proverbial threshold."

subordinate to the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C. Brother Ballou goes on to say "...the current group of brothers ... are sincere about their desire for Masonic intercourse. I sense no desire to take us over or any insidious motive. Yes, there are brothers who would hope to have, down the road, at least honorary cross membership. Remember, the agreement only provides for mutual recognition and visitation. I have found their openings to follow, with slight variations, the ancient landmarks and are therefore quite regular in appearance and practice."

Brother Ballou's first visitation in this jurisdiction was in response to an invitation to attend a communication of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15. He speaks approvingly of the experience, noting that in the breaking of bread before the meeting, rapport was established. "There was excitement in the air," he notes, "and a mutual sense of relief' that the agreement had at last been implemented. Brother Ballou observes that he was asked to address the Lodge, at which time he applauded the agreement, Brother Ballou is impressedwith the diversity pleaded for its fruitful development, and notes of membership in our Lodges, wherein his remarks were greeted "with an brethren of many ethnic backgrounds, unexpected standing ovation." origins, and nationalities are not only Dear Brethrer represented in the Craft, but also hold high rank therein. He concludes his account of Brother Ballou also speaks affectionately of "May the GAOTU bless our beautiful Craft and families." This is how Brother Jeffrey his visit to Sojourner Kilwinning Lodge No. his experience with mainstream Masonry in P. Ballou, member of Social Lodge No. 1, 1789, which he considers the most unique America with an observation that the events Prince Hall Association, begins his e-mail and beautiful Lodge that he has visited in this of the past are past. He then addresses message to the Masons of the District of jurisdiction to date. In recalling this visit he those who are not sure about how they Columbia. He goes on to recognize that states that the Masons in that Lodge "treated should honor recognitiononce it is achieved the "issue of mutual recognition, visitation me royally," during the meeting and by asking if we can afford not to immediately and perhaps more, between Prince Hall and afterwards at refreshment. He notes with honor the agreement and commence internon-prince Hall Masonry, has been a obvious satisfaction that after the work of the visitiation and working together, noting that subject of discussion for quite sometime in evening was concluded, the brethren there we have in our community kids who need ourfraternity," and to observe that "a number assembled - hailing originally from the tutorial and financial assistance and seniors of jurisdictions have taken the bold step to United States, the Bahamas, Ghana, Sierra who need our care. "Once again," he says, Leone, Kenya - and trained under different "we have the opportunity to show...the world bridge the divide." rites in the Craft - were able to share an who we are and what we can do. So when we all travel that plane from whose borne Brother Ballou, referring to the Proclamation abundance of brotherhood together. no traveler returns, what and how do we signed on September 1I,2000 by the Grand 3rother Ballou speaks favorably of all of his ant history to think of us...? Masters of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall risitations and notes with particular pleasure Grand Lodge, F.&A.M. of D.C. and the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C., states that iis visit to Federal Lodge No. 1, the Brother Jeffrey Ballou, It is my sincere belief it "is no secret that there are brothers in both :ounterpart of his own Lodge, Social Lodge that the history of our noble fraternity and of jurisdictions that either endorse, are lo. 1. He is apparently much impressed by our beloved country will remember you as a cautious, or who outright reject the notion of he ecumenism of Masonry in this jurisdiction, pioneer, a man, and a Mason who made a mutual recognition, visitation, or anything iotingwith interest that the volumes of sacred difference. Brother Ballou, I salute you! that resembles it." That he is among the aw on our altars represent "various faiths and endorsers of recognition is underscored by :reeds," thereby laying the foundation for the Mansour Hatefi his declaration that when he received :osmopolitanism that prevails in the Lodges Grand Master

VOICE OF FREEMASONRY

ON THE COVER Korean War Memorial From 1950 to 1953 the United States joined with United Nations forces in Korea to take a stand against what was deemed to be a threat to democratic nations worldwide. In tribute to the million and a half Americans who served the armed forces of this country in that war, this memorial has been created. It honors all those Americans who answered the call, those who worked and fought under trying circumstances, and those who gave their lives for the cause of freedom. Comprised of life-sizedfigures of troops on patrol, it is located in an area adjacent to the Viet-Nam Memorial and the Lincoln Monument on the western edge of the mall.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master EDlTORlCOMMlTTEE CHAIRMAN Stewart W. Miner, Grand Secretary LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION EDITOR Michelle Vojtush DEPARTMENT HEADSIASSISTANT EDITORS ASKTHE 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 ............................................................................................................................. GRANOMASTER Grant R. Berning .......................................................................................................... DEPUTY GRANDMASTER Robert H. Starr ........................ . . . ............................................................................... SENIORGRANDWARDEN JUNIORGRANDWARDEN Jules S. Tepper ................................................................................................................ Stewart W. Miner, PGM .................... . . . ........................................................................ GRANDSECRETARY Jerold J. Sarnet, PGM ............................................................................................................. GRANDTREASURER Joel R. Kahn ............................................................................................................................. Grand Lecturer Gordon Lee Ferguson ..................................................................................................... SENIORGRANDDEACON Leonard Proden ................... . . . . .............................................................................. JUNIORGRANDDEACON Albert McNair Smith S E N I O RGRANDSTEWARD JUNIOR GRANDSTEWARD Paul M. Bessel ................................................................................................................ APPOINTED Akram R. Elias ........................................................................................................................... GRANOMARSHAL David A. Balcom ......................................................................................................................... GRANDCHAPLAIN Walter F. Simon ............................................................................................................. DEPUTY GRANDCHAPLAIN Bilal M. Raschid ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN Hamid Adib-Samiy .................................................................................................... ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN A S S I S T A NGRAND T CHAPLAIN Kwame Acquaah ........................................................................................... Fernando Castelli ...................................................................................................... ASSISTANT GRANDCHAPLAIN George D. Seghers ........................................................................................................... GRANDSWORD BEARER GRANDPURSUIVANT Dara S. Esfandairy ................................................................................................................. John C. Feller .............................................................................................................. GRANOSTANDARD BEARER Carl R. LeVine ........................................................................................................................ GRANDHISTORIAN Gerhard Meinzer ............................................................................................................................ GRANDTILER GRANDORATOR George R. Adams, PGM .......................................................................................................... Sheldon I. Rappeport ................................................................................................... DEPUTY GRANDLECTURER Paul D. Gleason ............................................................................................................. GRANO LODGEPHYSICIAN AIDETO THE GRANDMASTER Franklin 0.Gayoso ................................................................................................... Carlos A. Landazuri .................................................................................................. AIDETO THE GRANDMASTER Victor A. Petrossian ....................... . . . ........................................................... AIOETO THE GRANDMASTER Sylvester J. Rychlinski A S S I S T A NGRAND T TILER Paul T. Sumler ................... . . . . ........................................................................GRANDLODGE SCHOOL TILER George J. Stoklas .................................................................................................. GRANDLODGEPHOTOGRAPHER John Greenwood ............................................................................................................... GRANO LODGELIAISON Floyd E. Werle ........................... . . ......................................................................................... GRANDORGANIST David A. Freed ................................................................................................................. GRANDLODGEALMONER

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.com 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 of Freemasonry 5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W. Washington, DC 20016-2524

FARAH'S CORNER As my husband's term as Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia wends toward its inevitable conclusion, I want to express my gratitude for all of the kindnesses directed to me by his Masonic friends and colleagues here in the District of Columbia, elsewhere in America, and abroad. Everywherewe have gone I have been treated well, almost like family, and for that I am grateful. Over the course of recent years I have learned to appreciate the scope of a man's obligation when he enters Freemasonry. This is an epochal step in his life, one in which he pledges himself to a way of life that is demanding, one in which he is requiredto demonstratesteadfastness in the face of unending challenges to Freemasonry's principles and ideals. But the declaration of vows is, as I understand it, only the beginning. I am told that periodically, on special occasions, our Masons gather together, in special and solemn ceremonies, to remind themselves of the covenant relationship that they enjoy in the Craft and, significantly, to rededicate themselves to the tenets of Freemasonry. Their obligation, in short, is total. This is as it should be; it is a sound practice, one that is designed to preserve and protect the worthwhile. It is also a custom that could be and should be emulated in the home, where Masons and their wives are bound one to the other by the solemnity of their vows. When those who love each other regularly recommit to the compact of marriage, the well being of home and family is assured. Keeping a proper balance between the obligations of family and society is particularlystressful to young, newly-made Masons who usually find themselves in a never-ending chase to satisfy insatiable demands on their time. In this dilemma it is imperative that every young Mason remain alert to how he earns his living, serves his brother, and nurtures and supports his family. Harmony in the home is dependent on understanding and open communication. It is thus essential that the husband, before accepting additional time-consuming obligations, Masonic or otherwise, seek the concurrence of his wife and his family. Likewise it is essential that the wife, on learning of her husband's aspirations and intent, carefully consider his designs and, if possible, declare her support of his endeavors. In the complex society in which we live, wherein both husband and wife must jockey for position in the workplace, it is essential that both parties realize that Masonry is a lifetime commitment to the betterment of mankind. Moreover, if the commitment is to be fruitful, significant inputs of time and of money are essential. Life, after all is a partnership, one that requires understanding, cooperation, and when necessary, sacrifice. I am happy that my husband is a Freemason. It sets him apart from those who are not. And I support his Masonic activities fully. He, in turn, supports me and my interests, our home, our family, and our community. But be assured that I look forward, as most wives do, to the day when demands on his time will tilt in my favor!

Till we meet again, Farah Hatefi

DC MASONS EGROUPA NEW WAY TO COMMUNICATE QUICKLY By Paul M. Bessel Junior Grand Steward

Would you like to get immediate messages when your lodge is having a special event? Or if you are planning to attend a meeting, and it has to be cancelled on short notice, would you like to have a way to be notified immediately? And would you like a way to find out about deaths among the Brethren in the most timely way? If you would, and if you have a computer, you can be a part of the "DC Masons Egroup." All you have to do is send an email message to:

In your message include your name and lodge number. That's all there is to it. Your email address will then be added to the DC Masons Egroup, and you will receive email whenever anyone else on the Egroup wants to notify DC Masons about something, especially when time is of the essence. You will also be able to send messages yourself about DC Masonic meetings or news to everyone on the DC Masons Egroup, by simply addressing your message to dcmasons@egroups.com. There is no cost to you at all for this, and you can try it out and stay with it or drop it if you wish. If you have any questions about this, feel free to contact Robert H. Starr at: rhstarr@CapAccess.org or Paul M. Bessel at: bessel@erols.com They will be happy to answer your questions.

2000 LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE A ROUSING SUCCESS

By Gordon Lee Ferguson Senior Grand Deacon On the weekend of September 15,16 and 17, nearly one hundred Lodge and Grand Lodge Officers gathered in the mountains outside of Front Royal, Virginia, at the 4-H Conference Center, for the 2000 Grand Lodge Leadership Conference. The Grand Lodge Masonic Education and Service Committee (MESC) presented a program that provided useful instruction and information, encouraged active participation, made time for fellowship with one's peers and allowed for a touch of fun and good humor. The Conference got off to a great start on Friday evening with welcoming and introductory remarks by MESC Cochairmen Mickey Ander and Lee Ferguson SGD. They were followed with remarks by the Grand Master, Mansour Hatefi. Upon the conclusion of his remarks, MESC members Sheldon Rappeport, Joel Kahn and Dan Frederick put on a "Lodge of Instruction and Example" that covered the areas of examination of visitors, receiving and balloting on petitions and the proper recognition of Grand Lodge Officers and other dignitaries. The evening ended with a period of warm, social fellowship.

Following lunch, John Greenwood gave a concise, informative presentation on the process of recognizing other Grand Lodges. The remainder of the afternoon was devoted to "creative problem solving," where small working groups were assigned various challenges facing Freemasonry today. Under the guidance of Kirk MacNulty, with assistance from Mickey Ander, Akram Elias and George Seghers, the groups 2000 Leadersip Cor nce. Grand Master Bernlng outllnes discussed the nproblemsflassigned Deputy h ~ splans for year 2001 to them and attempted to develop solutions. The groups then came together and presented their recommendations to the full group and to the elected Grand Lodge Officers who were present. Deputy Grand Master, Grant Berning commented that he had heard several "good ideas," and he would consider implementing some of them.

The Saturday evening activities began with Kwame Acquaah and Paul Bessel, JGS, conducting a "Lodge of Instruction1' i n ~ o d ~ e programs and budgets. The night ended with social Saturday's program began with an enfellowship and a jokefest thusiastic keynote address by William around a roaring campfire. Selsam. After thanking Selsam, Grand Sunday morning's program Berning, Deputy Grand Master, disincluded comments by the cussed the plans and goals for next Grand Grand year, when he will have the honor of 2000 Leadersip Conference. Grand Secreatary Mmer meets with secretaries Master and the MESC serving as Grand Master. The attend- of the Constituent Lodges. Cochairmen. The conference ees then broke up into counterpart groups to give them the opportunity to meet and talk with each other was brought to a close with the traditional worship sewice, which and with the Grand Lodge Officer(s) who will sit in the Grand East in was conducted by Grand Chaplain, David Balcom, with assistance the year that they will serve in the East of their respective lodges. from Deputy Grand Chaplain, Walter Simon.

2000 Leadenip Conference. Campfire slng-along.

2600 Leadersip Conference. (Left to rlght ) Vlctor Petrosslan, George Seghers, Grand Master Hatefi, and W Klrk MacNulty

UNITED GRAND LODGE OF EUROPE? In the August 2000 issue of the Philalethes, a journal of Masonic research and letters, it was reported that a new organization called the United Grand Lodges of Europe had been created on June 18,2000. The declaration, as printed therein, is quoted here as presented. "This 18th June 2000, Masonic Europe was born." stated Jean-Claude Bousquet, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of France. -Michael Segall, MPS, kindly offered the following explanation of events that led to the proceeding statement: On June 18th the Grand Lodge of France and the Grande Lodge Symbolique et Traditionnelle "Opera", signed a treaty establishing the United Grand Lodges of France. Other French Grand Bodies are expected to join the UGLF in the coming months. On this same date, the two aforementioned Grand Lodges and the Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia created the United Grand Lodges of Europe. A few additional Grand Lodges have already expressed their intention to join. Brother Michael summarized thusly: "The aim of the United Grand Lodges of France and The United Grand Lodges of Europe is to implement an old dream which Masonry has never succeeded in achieving, that of Universal Freemasonry among equal, sovereign, traditional and regular Masonic Bodies, with full intervisitation rights among its members, without any one Grand Body bowing to the decisions, the dictates or the whim of another and without the purely political and totally un-Masonic game the current recognition system has become." - The Philalethes, August 2000

Inasmuch as this union was effected between Grand Lodges unrecognized by this Grand Lodge, and inasmuch as the action taken impacts on Grand Lodges with which we have established amity, the views of the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise was solicited. The response to that request, prepared by Nat Granstein, Assistant Grand Master, is in part as follows:

The unrealistic United Grand Lodge is a brain child of the Grande Loge de France as so many others in the past to obtain legitimacy. If you carefully read the article it states "The aim of the Grande Loge de France and the United Grand Lodge of Europe is to implement an old dream, that of Universal Freemasonry among equal, sovereign, traditional and regular Masonic Bodies, with full INTERVISITATION rights among its members without any one Grand Body bowing to the decisions and without the purely political and totally un-Masonic game that current recognition system has become." The idea of the United Grand Lodges of Europe materialized on 18 June 2000 when the treaty of union for the Grand Lodge of

Europe was approved at the annual communication of the Grande Loge de France and there solemnly signed by the three founding members consisting of the Grande Loge de France, the Grande Loge Traditionnelle and Symbolique (Opera) and the NATIONAL Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia. (National Yugoslavia is not the Yugoslavia Grand Lodge recognized by 33 United States and 7 Canadian Grand Lodges, the Regular Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia.) None of the three founding Grand Lodges are recognized by any of the United States Grand Lodges and it is likely that the creation of this group will make the campaign to obtain recognition undertaken by the Grande Loge de France in the USA even more difficult to achieve as it will lead to tough questions about an additional point of irregularity. The United Grand Lodge of England immediately issued a warning statement against this new European Grand Lodge in a newsletter to its constituent lodges and the Grand Lodges in amity, commenting that none of the founding members of this organization are recognized and that the United Grand Lodge of England has always opposed the creation of any Masonic Grand Bodies which could entail upon the traditional jurisdiction of the Grand Lodges. Another considerable handicap in the future success of the newly created United Grand Lodges of Europe lies in the membership of the National Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia. You will remember that in 1993, the annual Assembly of the Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia expelled its immediate Past Grand Master and then altered its name to the Regular Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia. The former Grand Master now expelled, claimed leadership of a National Grand Lodge of Yugoslavia but received no international support. Since wild accusations and persistent rumors exist about a political infiltration of Freemasonry in Yugoslavia by the Serbian secret services of ex-communist and dictator Milosevic, one can wonder what has driven the Grande Loge de France to get itself embroiled in the Balkan morass. The Grand Lodge Symbolic is a small French Masonic Grand Body which was born in 1948 as the result of a spin-off from the GLNF by a group of dissenting Brethren who felt that the GLNF had fallen into the hand of Anglo-Saxon foreigners, which is ridiculous. We are now 27,500 members with 26,000 French citizens. In these unfavorable conditions it is most unlikely that any Grand Lodge listed under the group of the recognized and regular Grand Lodges will ever consider joining or establishing relations with the United Grand Lodges of Europe. (continued from page 15)

PROJECT LIFE By Stewart W. Miner, PGM Grand Secretary The members of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15 have for the past three years been participating in a program directed by the World Life Instituteto spiritually rehabilitate children whose memories are scarred by the ugliness of war in Chechnya and Bosnia. In this program deserving youngsters are brought to America to participate in a program of recreation and education designed to prepare them for a return, with renewed hope, to the rigors of life in their homelands. The role of the Lodge has been to provide these children with a week of sight-seeing and recreation in and around our nation's capital. This year the group, including Azmat, Adam, Murad, Alik, Aminat, Amra, Meldin, Alem, and Vahidin, enjoyed visits to the Washington Zoo, the Museum of Natural History, a tour of Washington, D.C., the caves at Crystal Grottoes, and a number of fun activities, including go-cart racing, swimming, volley-ball, and horseback riding.

Victor Petrossian, John Vergalla, Teko Foley, Dan Thornton, and several others hosted a wonderful day-long pre-departure outing for the children. At that time Linda Redfield, project director for Project Life, presenied awards to Roman Volsky and the Grand Master, Mansour Hatefi. On hand to observe the presentations were Jerold J. Samet, Chairman of the Board of the Saunders Foundation and Michael Dixon, Executive Director of Youth Leaders International.The Lodge, in turn, presented the children with gift bags of clothing, games, and toys. After the presentation of awards and gifts Linda Redfield shared her slides of present day lngushetia and Chechnya, which she visited in June of 1999 and again in June 2000. She reported that this year's group of visiting children had been selected by social workers who surveyed the needs of children living under dire straits in povertystricken refugee camps, where food and water were at a premium.

In commentary on the scope of the Project Life program, the directors recognizedthe fact that children in want are not confined to Chechnya and Bosnia alone; indeed not. The issue is world-wide in scope, The World Life Institute provides its wards with a three-month and it is particularly acute in many parts of Africa and Asia. Hence program of education and recreation, offered at camps in the United the attention showered upon the Project Life effort will, hopefully, States, England, South Africa, and Sweden. The visits to contribute to the solution of a problem that is or should be of global Washington, which came about at the recommendation of Asaf concern. Durakovic, Master of Benjamin B. French Lodge in 1990, are offered Clearly, the members of Benjamin B. French Lodge fully understand in August, just before the children return home. the Masonic maxim which declares that every human being has a This year, on Saturday,August 5th,Washington week was concluded claim upon the kind offices of the Mason and his Lodge. In responding with festivities presented at the Meridian Hill Conference Center in to a clear call of need, they have provided those in want with essential Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. At that time a number of the measures of hope and confidence. This is Masonic outreach at its members of the Lodge, including Kwame Acquaah, Akram Elias, best.

Project Life. Picnic celebration at the Meridian Hill Conference Center at Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. Included in the group were the directors for Project Life, the members and friends of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15, and the honored children from Chechnya and Bosnia.

TRIBUTE TO WASHINGTON A TRIBUTE TO MASONRY By Al Boswell Worshipful Master Federal Lodge No. 1

Capitol curator, steadfastly declared their belief that the stone displayed was the genuine article. The interview, incidentally, was reported in the following day issue of the Post.

Planning for the Tribute to Washington On September II,2000 the Masons of this began in early July of this year, when the jurisdiction, led by Federal Lodge No, I,cel- historic Lodges of Washington were asked ebrated the 200th anniversary of the estab- to bring their artifacts to a stated lishment of Washington, D.C. as the capital communication of Federal Lodge No. 1. of our country. Also participating in the event Support for the event grew quickly thereafter, were some 53 organizations, including the representatives of Potomac Lodge No. 5 (D.C.) and Alexandria Washington Lodge No. 22 and Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4, Virginia Lodges in which George Washing- 1 ton was active. Two hun- 1 dred fifty guests, including representatives from a wide selection of hisI torical societies, were A Tribute to Washington. U.S.Army Chorus. given a rare opportunity to view artifacts dating from the 1790-1800 and it soon became evident that the normal meeting place of Federal Lodge was not period of history in this city. sufficiently large to accommodate the The affair was presented at the House of the number of people who would attend. This Temple of the Supreme Council of the led the planners to arrange for the program Scottish Rite on 16thStreet, N,W. The at the House of the Temple. But even here program was well covered by the media, with it was necessary to limit participation the television crews of channels 7, 8, and 9 because the Supreme Council Chamber, being on hand to record the events and to where the formal program was presented, interview those distinguished archivists and accommodates only 250 persons curators who were present. On display were comfortably. several historic pieces contributed by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, including the Following an informal reception in the original plan of the city designed by Pierre George Washington Dining Room on the LaEnfant, as well as some of the sacred lower level of the Temple, the possessions of George Washington, Masons in attendance entered the Supreme Council chamber including his Bible, gavel, and trowel. for the stated communication The most interesting object on display, from of Federal Lodge. It is reported the standpoint of the media, was a chip of that this is the first time that what was reputed to be the original such a meeting has been cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol, laid conducted in this facility. After Masonically by George Washington in 1793. disposing of a limited amount Alan Hantman, Architect of the Capitol, was of business the Master, Alfred questioned intensely about the authenticity C. Boswell, Jr., called the of this stone by reporters of the Washington Lodge to recess, invited nonPost. Hantman and Barbara Wolanin, a Mason guests to enter the

chamber, and served as Master of Ceremonies for the program of the evening. The program, enhanced by the music of the U.S. Army Chorus, was rich in meaning. Speakers included Gary Scott, of Naval Lodge No. 4, who spoke about George Washington; Alan M. Hantman, Architect of the Capitol, who spoke about the role of Masons in building the Capitol Building; and William Seale, renown architectural historian, who spoke on the White House and its architect, James Hoban, the first Master of Federal Lodge No. 1. The spoken presentations were interspersed with meaningful musical selections. Following the departure of non-Masonic guests from the chamber and before the Lodge was called from recess to labor, a historic event transpired. Most Worshipful Willie H. Griffin, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Inc., and Most Worshipful Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C. signed a proclamation making known that full fraternal recognition and amity had been established between their respective Grand Lodges. Worshipful Brother Boswell then called his Lodge to labor and thereafter Most Worshipful Brother Hatefi closed the Lodge in short form. The evening was complete. In sponsoring a tribute to Washington, wherein the Masons present paid tribute to the city's history, Federal Lodge and the fraternity as a whole made history, an achievement of which all Masons can be proud.

MUTUAL RECOGNITION AND VISITATION WITH PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE OF D.C. By Mansour Hatefi Grand Master On September II,2000, our Grand Lodge participated in several historic events in one evening, in one of the most magnificent settings in the world. The occasion was a meeting of Federal Lodge Number 1 in the "Temple Room" of the House of the Temple, the headquarters of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction of the United States. It is believed that this was the first time any lodge was permitted to meet there. The primary purpose of the evening was to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the founding of Washington, D.C., and the role of George Washington and other Freemasons in that event. Our Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Mansour Hatefi, invited Most Worshipful Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Willie Henry Griffin, and 14 of his Grand Lodge officers to attend. At the conclusion of the public ceremony, Worshipful Brother Alfred C. Boswell, Master of Federal Lodge Number 1, reconvened the Masons for the purpose of signing the Proclamation. The Lodge had been at recess until the official signing of the proclamation was concluded. On either side of the Worshipful Master in the East were Most Worshipful Brother Mansour Hatefi, Grand Master of Masons of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia; Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Willie Henry Griffin; Right Worshipful Brother John Ellington, Deputy Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge; Right Worshipful Brother Grant R. Berning, Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia; and Past Grand Master Nathaniel Adams of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. In the East in front of the Worshipful Master, was a podium and in front of the podium a "signing table" with two chairs.

Past Grand Master, George R. Adams, Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, was invited to the east and asked by the Grand Master to take charge of the ceremony. He then conducted the two Grand Masterswest of the altar and reminded the brethren present that Mutual Recognition. "Man before engaging historic proclamation. in any great or important undertaking would always invoke the blessing of Deity." Past Grand Master Adams then knelt at the altar between the two Grand Masters who placed their respective hands on either of his shoulders while he asked the Grand Architect of the universe to bless the union of these two Grand Lodges.

Grand Masters Willie Griffin and Mansour Hatefi sign

was the foundation stone of a new beginning between these two Grand Lodges and that it was now up to the members of the two Grand Lodges to build the edifice held together by the cement of brotherly love.

Most Worshipful Brother Adams then read the Proclamation, set forth below, and escorted both Grand Masters to the desk in Most Worshipful Brother Nathaniel Adams the East where they signed the Proclamation was then asked to come to the podium and as well as the Agreement which had been introduce the Grand officers of the Prince Hall reached concerning the "Guidelines for Grand Lodge and those brethrenfrom Prince Visitation." The members rose to their feet Hall who had worked with him to assist his with thunderous applause. The work by so Grand Master to obtain recognition. Next many had finally achieved that which the Most Worshipful Brother George Adams members of both Grand Lodges had introduced the Grand Lodge Officers of the overwhelmingly approved on May 12, 1999 District of Columbia and those brethren who by the Grand Lodge of the District of had worked with him to assist Grand Master Columbia and again on December 9, 1999, by the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. Hatefi to obtain recognition. Most Worshipful Brother Adams delivered After several photographs, the Grand brief remarks on the occasion of the Masters exchanged pens from the signing Proclamation. He noted that both Grand and Grand Master Mansour Hatefi escorted Lodges had already approved recognition of the Most Worshipful Grand Master Willie each other at their respective Grand Lodge Henry Griffin to the east. Grand Master Meetings. He reminded the brethren that Hatefi brought the Lodge from recess to labor Freemasonry teaches that it is the "internal and welcomed the visiting Grand Lodge lot the external qualifications of a man that Officers. Both Grand Masters were given jhould recommend him to be a Mason" and Grand Honors. hat both Grand Lodges by signing this 3oclamation were affirming the highest and The evening of September 1I , 2000, will live ioblest ideal of Freemasonry, that of in the memory of both of our Grand Lodges 3rotherly love and truth. He pointed out that as the first official lodge meeting in which ~ h i l ethe two Grand Lodges would remain members from both Grand Lodges were separate organizationally, they share a present. :ommon idealism - that of the tenets of 3eemasonry. He pointed out that the The Proclamation and Guidelines for rocl lama ti on which was about to be signed Visitations read as follows:

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Suggested Guidelines for Visits between Brethren of the Grand Lodge of D.C., F.A.A.M., and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of D.C.

This document contains suggested guidelines for visits between members of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Jurisdiction of the District of Columbia, and the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, F.A.A.M. The goals of these Grand Lodges are to promote amity, brotherhood, and fraternalism between the members of Lodges chartered by them, and to promote activities of mutual benefit. At all times, the rules of each Grand Lodge will be respected by all. These guidelines are intended to be flexible and subject to change. The informal "Grand Lodges Communication Committee," which includes members from both Grand Lodges, will continue as an advisory group to the two Grand Masters. The Grand Lodges will exchange copies of their Grand Lodge directories and other publications and information. There are two types of visits between Masons from these Grand Lodges - formal and informal. Formal visits are those formally arranged by a Lodge or Grand Lodge, to visit a Lodge chartered by the other Grand Lodge. Informal visits are all others. Visits between Masons of these two Grand Lodges may begin immediately. For informal visits, Masons from either Grand Lodge may contact the Master of a Lodge of the other Grand Lodge, to mutually decide the date and other details of a proposed visit, such as appropriate dress for the occasion. When visits are agreed upon, the Masters of Lodges being visited should insure a friendly welcome for all visitors. Whenever there are to be formal visits, particularly when Grand Masters are involved, details about proposed visits should be decided upon in advance, and appropriate Grand Lodge officials should be informed. Lodge visits between Brethren of these two Grand Lodges are definitely encouraged. The suggested guidelines in this document are intended to insure that these visits are conducted in the most friendly and appropriate manner. Approved by the Grand Masters of these two Grand Lodges on September 11,2000.

Most Worshipful Mansour Hatefi Grand Master, Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, District of Columbia

Most Worshipful Grand Master Willie Henry Griffin, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, District of Columbia

BUSSLER BROTHERS HONORED

By Stewart W. Miner, PGM Grand Secretary The Capitular Masons of the District of Columbia honor& John and Robert Bussler for 50 years of service to the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of D.C. at dinner on October 23,2000. The affair, offered at the Hilton Hotel in Gaithersburg, was attended by a large crowd of friends and family, including delegations from their Lodge, Benjamin 0. French No. 15; their Chapter, Mt. Vernon No. 3; the Grand Chapters of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia; and the Grand Lodges of D.C. and Maryland. Annivemry. Grend Mester Hatefi and Robert 0. Busslar greet Harold Gmlnger, On this occasion greetings were brought by John Vergalla, M.E. wBussler b acted as Chaplain for the evntng. Grand High Priest; F. William Hershiser, M.I.Grand Master of Cryptic Masons; Mansour lar Masons in fhe District of Columbia. In Hatefi, M.W. Grand addition, Jacherved as the Most IllustriMaster of Masons of the ous Grand Master of Cryptic Masons in District of Columbia; M. 1997 and Bob has served as Secretary of Edgar Milstead, Past Mt. Vernon Royal Arch Chapter continuHigh Priest afwashingously since 1961. ton-Potoma~Chapter No. 8 and holder of the Duringthe course of the evening a number gold Gmnd Lodge Fiof presentations were made to the delity Medal, and the honorees. Among the gifts presented Master of Ceremonies were afghans by the Grand Royal Arch for the event, Stewart Chapter, clocks by Washington-Potomac W. Miner. Royal Arch Chapter No. 8, and certikates testifying to monetary contributions that Linking the various rehad been made in each of their names to marks offered were ;)uc~er. the George Washington Masonic National some common themes, which may be reduced to two words dedication and senice. Both Memorial. In addition, Peter DeForth, King of Washington-Potomac of the Busslers had over the years served as Masters oftheir Lodge; Royal Arch Chapter No. 8, presentedJackwith gifts that appropriately as High Priests of their Chapter; as Grand Visitor and Lecturer of recalled his involvement in the art of aircraft reconnaissance. the Grand Royal Arch Chapter; and as Grand High Priest of Capitu-

Bussler Anniversary. Kwame Acquaah, Past Master of Benjamtn B. French Lodge No. 15, congratulates the Bussler brothers, both of whom also served as Master of that Lodge.

Bussler Anniversary. Grand Secretary and Mrs. Stewart W. Miner. The Grand Secretary was the Master of Ceremonies for the Anniversary program.

G R A N D LODGE, F.A.A.M., O F T H E DISTRICT O F COLUMBIA

call of the Grand Master throughout the communication.

COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN ARE REQUESTED TO SUBMIT DRAFTS OF THEIR REPORTS, TYPEWRITTENAND IN DUPLICALL TO STATED COMMUNICATIONS CATE, TO THE OFFICE OF THE GRAND SECRETARY NOT LATER THAN THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON MONDAY, NO190thAnnual Communication VEMBER 15,1999. The 190thAnnual Communication of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of B. RECEPTION OF DISTINGUISHED Columbia will convene on Saturday, GUESTS December 9, 2000 at 10:OO a.m. in the auditorium of the Scottish Rite Temple, 2800 C. ELECTION OF GRAND LODGE 16thStreet, N.W., Washington, D.C. Grand OFFICERS Lodge will recess at 12:OO noon, resume RECEPTION OF PROPOSED labor at 1:00 p.m., and close at approximately D. 4:00 p.m. If business is not completed by RESOLUTIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO that time, the Annual Communication will THE CODE resume, at the direction of the Grand Master, at 9:OO a.m. on Monday, December 11,1999 Dress will be morning suits for the Grand Lodge Officers and business suits for the at the same location. Past Grand Masters and the officers of the Constituent Lodges. Lodge officers are AGENDA requested to wear their jewels while attending this communication A. REPORTS

Third Stated Communication

The Third Stated Communication of the Grand Lodge will be convened at 5:30 p.m. in the Lodge room of the Scottish Rite Temple, 2800 16" Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. on Saturday, December 18 , 1999 to consider the reports of the committees on the annual address of the Grand Master, to present the Grand Lodge Distinguished Service Medal if one is to be awarded, and for the installation of officers. No other business will be transacted. On this occasion dress for the Grand Lodge Officers will be white tie and tails. The open installation of officers will occur in the auditorium of the Scottish Rite Temple, starting at approximately 6:00 p.m. Immediately thereafter a buffet reception will be served in the refectory. The Scottish Rite parking lot is located behind the temple and may be entered from Fuller Street, right onto Mozart Place, and right into the parking lot. Please park carefully and leave space for easy access and exit. By order of the Grand Master.

The Grand Master's address and the reports of the Grand Lodge Officers and of the Grand Lodge Trustees will be given prior to the luncheon recess. The reports of the Grand Lodge Committees will be presented at the

After Grand Lodge is opened, business will not be interrupted for the admission of brethren except on convenient occasions. Your presence, on time, is earnestly ?equested.

Fraternally, Stewart W. Miner, PGM Grand Secretary

FOR A N E W YEAR \VORLD O F PEACE GRAND LODGE OF D.C. MANSOUR HATEFI - GRAND MASTER GRANT R. BERNING - DEPUTY GRAND MASTER ROBERT H. STARR - SENIOR GRAND WARDEN JULES S. TEPPER - JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN STEWART W. MINER, PGM - GRAND SECRETARY JEROLD J. SAMET, PGM - GRAND TREASURER

GORDON LEE FERGUSON -SENIOR GRAND DEACON LEONARD PRODEN - JUNIOR GRAND DEACON ALBERT McNAlR SMITH - SENIOR GRAND STEWARD PAUL M. BESSEL - JUNIOR GRAND STEWARD JOEL R. KAHN - GRAND LECTURER

had retreated from the Holy Land, following more satisfactory arrangement, which was defeat by the Saracens, and the ardor of both consummated in 1608, when the "Benchers," church and state for further crusades had the senior barristers of the Temple, By Stewart W. Miner, PGM been largely dissipated. These purchased the property and agreed to Grand Secretary developments led eventually to attacks by assume responsibility for the maintenance One of the most significant remnants of the church and state on the Templars, and of the Temple Church. Seldom has a Trust work and workings of the Antient Templars ultimately, at the instigation of Philip IV, King been so conscientiously honored. Not only is prominently situated in London, England, of France, to the abolishment of the order by has the church meticulously maintained, but in an area between what is now Fleet Street the Pope. Thereafter Edward II of England it was carefully rebuilt after the severe damage inflicted by the Luftwaffe during on the north and the Victoria Embankment, took control of the London Temple. London blitz in may 1941. Today it is a which extends along the Thames, to the south. Here, on holdings that formerly Edward, not having an immediate need for magnificent structure, inside and out. constituted the headquartersof the Templars the property, ceded it to the Order of St. John, in England, now stands the only surviving the Hospitalers, an organization that had The gate leading out of the Temple onto Fleet The Street and thence to the Royal Courts was structure of that antient body - the Temple other London headquarters. Hospitalers, also not having an immediate originally known as the Barriere du Temple, Church. need forthe property, rented it to two colleges which was later anglicized to become the The church is built of imported Normandy of lawyers (subsequently known as the Inner stone. Consecrated in honor of the Blessed and Middle Temples) who sought quarters Virgin Mary on February 10, 1185, by near the Royal Courts of Justice. In this way Heraclius, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, this the Temple Church became the college church is patterned after the Church of the chapel of the two societies named and the Holy Sepulcher at Jerusalem, a round, relationship thus established prevails to this domed building erected over the site of the day. sepulcher where Jesus was buried. Within the church and around the entire perimeter In 1534 King Henry Vlll abolished the is a stone bench on which the seated knights Hospitalers, confiscated their property, and the Temple once again was under the control were all able to look to the center. of the Crown. The principal consequence of Less than half a century after the this confiscation was the naming of the priest consecration of the church the fortunes of of the church, which Henry did personally, the Templars began to wane. The Templars and in so doing he designated his choice as the "Master of the Temple." But in his confiscation action Henry did not disturb the tenancy of the barristers, who by the end of the 16thcentury had erected many fine permanent structures.

TEMPLE CHURCH

Temple Church, London, England. The circular structure, top-left, is the original church that was consecrated in the year 1185.

In his book, "Born In Blood," John Robinson makes an interesting observation about this church when the Temple property was in the hands of the Hospitalers. At the time of the Peasant's Revolt, he reports, the Templar Column, Temple Church: Erectedto celebrate the millennium.The prepeasants carried the contents of the church sumed poverty of the knights, or some of (i.e., the possessions of the Hospitalers) out them, is symblized by the two knights riding of the church and into the street. There they one horse. put Hospitaler property to the torch. Interestingly, they did not harm the church itself, and the fact that they did not has caused centuries of speculation as to the true Temple Bar. Trial lawyers, passing bac and forth through this "Bar" became known identity and purpose of the revolters. as "barristers," and they were granted the In an attempt to achieve security the lawyers special privilege of passing through without

In the guide book provided visitors to the church one reads of two interesting battles that have taken place at this site. The first details what is termed the battle of the pulpit. It seems that in 1585 the second Master of the Temple, Richard Alvey died and his deputy, one Walter Travers, was not selected to replace him. Thereafter the newly named Master, Richard Hooker, preached each Sunday morning, and in the afternoon, Travers would contradict him in his own sermon. People came to call it the Battle of the Pulpit, saying mischievously that Canterbury was preached in the morning and Geneva in the afternoon!

qualification to appear before the court, earned the right to "pass the bar." Those entitled to pass the barriere became known as "barristers." In the circular portion of the church today's visitor is impressed by the fact that laid out on the floor are effigies of Knight Templars who are buried there. One such effigy depicts William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke (c.1174-1219), a friend of King John, who played a prominent role in the negotiations leading to the adoption of the Magna Carta in 1215. The effigies were placed in their present positions during the 1841 restoration of the church.

The second battle focused on the church organ. After the great fire of London in 1666 the church, though undamaged, was restored by Sir Christopher Wren, and for the first time, an organ was introduced into the church. Unfortunately the two Inns of Court could not agree on the organ to be obtained. One society preferred an instrument built by Father Smith, while the other preferred on produced by Renatus Harris. The matter was finally settled, after much debate, by the Lord chancellor, Judge Jeffreys. The Judge chose the Father Smith organ, and this instrument was used in the church until the Second World War, when it was destroyed in the fire raid that gutted the building.

The central east stained window of the church is an object of interest and beauty. It includes a depiction of the mythological flying horse, Pegasus, and another horse carrying two knights, designed presumably to illustrate their poverty. The latter theme is repeated in the courtyard of the church where a column, topped by a horse carrying two knights, has been erected to mark the beginning of the new millennium. HEROISM RECOGNIZED

By Daniel P. Wynne, Jr. Worshipful Master Potomac Lodge No. 5

Since it renovation in 1954 following World War II the church has 1 resumed its role as the chapel and spiritual home of the Inner and Middle Temples. Services are offered each Sunday morning, except in August and September when the Law Courts are not in session. Church authorities state that on many Saturdays there are weddings of members of one of the inns, and children of the members are baptized on t-mst Sundays. Hence the church, although more than 800 Years old, stands not only as a monument to a long and glorious past, but also as a living and active place of worship, serving the spiritual needs of the faithful as they meet the challenges of the new millennium.

On November 1, 1950, two armed Puerto Rican separatists attacked Blair house in an attempt to assassinate President Truman. In the exchange of gunfire which erupted during this attack, a defending officer of the United States Secret Service, Leslie William Coffelt was killed, as was one of the separatist assailants. Two other officers of the Secret Service were wounded. Leslie Coffelt was a Mason and a devoted member of Potomac Lodge No. 5, having been raised in that Lodge on September 28, 1945. In the aftermath of the shooting the Lodge was convened to conduct a Masonic funeral service for Brother Coffelt. President Truman, a Past Grand Master of Masons in Missouri, in the company of his wife, Bess, attended the service. On November I,2000, Potomac Lodge No. 5 observed the 50th anniversary of this tragedy by placing a wreath in memory of Brother Coffelt at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Brother Coffelt's name appears on this memorial, along with those of 15,139 other law enforcement officers, dating back to 1792. In addition to the members of Potomac Lodge the Grand Master and a number of Grand Lodge Officers participated in the ceremony, following which the group retired to the memorial's visitors center. Should you visit the memorial on your own, you will find Brother Coffelt's name engraved on Panel 23W, Line I,where it remains to remind us all of the price of freedom.

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October 12 and 13th, the annual European Grand Secretaries (which I attend each year) will meet in Edinburg, and not one Grand Lodge is even considering recognizing either the Grande Loge de France or the United Grand Lodges of Europe. In fact no one is even bringing up the subject. What would be the reaction of the North American Grand Lodges if an irregular body or even a regular one proposed a United Grand Lodge of North America? Attached herewith, please find a letter I wrote regarding our

I attitude concerning recognition of the Grande Loge de France.

Sincerely and Fraternally, Nat Granstein Assistant Grand Master Note: The attachment to which reference is made is on file in the office of the Grand Secretary.

Friday, December 8,2000 I

6130P.M. Social Hour - Grand Ballroom 7:30 P.M. Grand Lodge Annual Banquet Grand Ballroom Renaissance Hotel Dress: Formal Recommended

6,2000

Social Hour 6:30 p.m.

- Dinner 7.30 p.m.

Renaissance Hotel 999 - 9th Street, NW Washington, DC

Tickets: $47.50 with tables of 10

Dress: FornzaI Recoininended.

Saturday, December 9,2000

6:00 A.M. Breakfast Buffet 9:00 A.M. Bus departs for Scottish Rite Temple 10:OO A.M. Grand Lodge opens Scottish Rife Temple 12:OO Noon Recess Buffet luncheon in Refectory 1.00 P.M. Grand Lodge resumes labor Introduction of Guesfs 2:00 P.M. Election of Officers for 2001 4:00 P.M. Grand Lodge adjourns

Voice of Freemasonry Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of D.C. 5428 MacArthur Blvd, NW Washington, DC 200 16-2524

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