The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 22 No. 2

Volume 22, Number 2

MEDAL

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

OF

FREEDOM

Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia

GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF D.C.

Voice of Freemasonry Volume 22, Number 2, 2005 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Leonard Proden, Grand Master MANAGING EDITOR Mansour Hatefi, Grand Secretary

The Voice of Freemasonry 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

COVER CREDIT On the cover of this issue is a reproduction of the Freedom Medal of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. Depicted on the face of the medal is a replica of the head of the Statue of Freedom, which is fixed to the top of the dome of the United States Capitol. On the reverse side of the medal is a reproduction of the Grand Lodge seal and a space reserved for a recipient name.

The Statue of Freedom was originally placed on the dome of the Capitol in 1862. Present for the ceremony was the President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and MW Benjamin B. French, then Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds for the U.S. Government. According to historian Kenton Harper, the names of both men are engraved on the head of the statue.

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,

Table of Contents Page

symbolism, philosophy, responsibility of membership, etiquette, current events, and/or general public interest.

Cover Credit ..........................................................................................................2

When possible, photographs that illustrate these inform-

Grand Master’s Message ........................................................................................3

ative articles should accompany the submission. Pieces

Grand Secretary’s Message ....................................................................................4

submitted should be typed, double-spaced and prefer-

The Face of Freemasonry .......................................................................................5

ably accompanied by a computer disk in a neutral PC

The Initiated Eye ....................................................................................................7

format or via e-mail to: grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org

Reaching Outward Through Masonry ......................................................................8 The Revival of American Freemasonry ...................................................................11 Presentation of Silver Fidelity Medal ......................................................................13

Articles are subject to editing and, when published,

Universal Brotherhood Weekend — 2005 ..............................................................14

become the property of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the

Banner Consecration............................................................................................15

District of Columbia. No compensation is allowed for any

The Table Lodge: A Celebration of Universal Fellowship.........................................16

articles, photographs, or other materials submitted for

Response to Festive Board Toast..........................................................................18

publication.

Grand Master’s Testimonial ...................................................................................20

Permission to reprint articles will be granted upon written request to the Editor from recognized Masonic publica-

Masonic Model Teachers Student Assistance Program ..........................................21 4th of July Parade and Picnic ...............................................................................22

tions and others. When reprinted, articles should note: “Reprinted with permission of the Voice of Freemasonry in the Nation’s Capital, (month), (year).”

Hot Dogs and Freemasonry ..................................................................................22 Visit to Walter Reed Medical Center ......................................................................23 Grand Lodge Leadership Conference....................................................................23

Please direct all correspondence to:

Presentation of Gold Fidelity Medal .......................................................................24

Managing Editor: The Voice of Freemasonry

My Masons ..........................................................................................................25

5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W.

Some Key Lights of Masonry ................................................................................27

Washington, DC 20016-2524

Lord Kitchener, Afghanistan, and Freemasonry ......................................................28 The American Colonization Society .......................................................................30 An Auspicious Day ...............................................................................................31 Photo of Past Grand Masters...................................................................back cover

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GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Grand Master’s Message Brethren: Freemasonry in Washington, D.C. has been on the move.

Your attendance at Masonic communications, functions, ceremonies and events have provided us wonderful opportunities to share the immense joy and pride of being a Mason. I trust that the record we have compiled, together, will meet your approval. I have endeavored, to the best of my ability, to use the office of Grand Master to promote the interests of D.C. Freemasonry, both here and abroad.

Thus far I have carried the banner of this Grand Lodge to the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Russia, to several of the Grand Lodges of the United States, to the Conference of Grand Masters, and to all the lodges comprising our jurisdiction. I have also been attentive to the programs and concerns of all the bodies comprising the York and the Scottish Rites, the Shrine, DeMolay and the Eastern Star. I believe the Grand Lodge should strive always to properly serve our Masonic family in its entirety.

More important than what I have done in the past few months, however, is what you have done to serve the Craft, and frankly, I applaud your efforts and your support of the Grand Lodge and its many programs. I am especially grateful for what we have accomplished in our effort to make Freemasonry a part of the public community in which we live and have our being.

Thus I applaud you for launching a new and more meaningful Child Identification Program (CHIP); for sponsoring District of Columbia public school teachers enrolled in the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program; and for instituting a major public relations effort at the Octagon Museum, where the public may gain a better perspective on the impact of Masonry on our nation’s capital.

I am particularly impressed by the fact that you have provided, through the Masonic Foundation, scholarships valued at $30,000 to June graduates of the public high schools of D.C.; supported the traditional Palisades 4th of July parade and picnic; and cooperated with our Prince Hall brothers to enable 275 deserving D.C. youngsters to see our Washington Nationals play ball. I am also appreciative of your continuing participation in our “key chain” fund-raising effort, to further our charitable activi-

ties. You are all due commendation!

We have been just as busy within as we have been without the fraternity. During the past few months we have reduced many of the Grand Lodge records to DVD format; approved and awarded a new “Medal of Freedom;” M.W. Brother Leonard Proden executed an outstanding universal brotherhood weekend; replaced the entire computer system in the Grand Lodge office; created a new and improved website for the Grand Lodge; and have provided each Lodge the opportunity to create and maintain their individual website. Our records and communications systems, in short, have never been better.

But we should not rest on our laurels. Hence, I call on you to be attentive to the Trestle Board for the coming months. If you plan to be an officer in your lodge in 2006, I urge you to attend the leadership conference at Front Royal, where Illustrious Ronald A. Seale, 33°, SGC, will be our keynote speaker. I also solicit your support of the Awards Banquet we plan for September 23rd; the Grand Master’s Class on October 21-22; my official visitation with constituent lodge officers, members and their families, on November 5th; and, of course, our Grand Lodge sessions on December 10 and 17.

Brethren, let’s keep Freemasonry moving — on course and full speed ahead!

Leonard Proden Grand Master

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GRAND SECRETARY’S MESSAGE

Grand Secretary’s Message Mansour Hatefi, PGM Grand Secretary The first issue of The Voice of Freemasonry, in 2005, which came out 1st of May, has been received well by our brethren here and elsewhere. The “Voice” is a respected and much credited Masonic publication. The standard has been set and now every effort must be made to continue the trend. For this purpose, like everything else that we do, we seek your support and guidance. Remember this is your magazine and as such it should also contain the articles that you want to read and the issues with which you have been involved.

Having spent much of my working life in journalism and media in one way or another, I know for a fact that there is a writer and reporter in each and everyone of us. If you have a story to tell, or a report to make, worth sharing with others, about your lodge activities and programs, or on Masonry and its impact on your life or on the community, pick up a pen, or switch on your computer, and relate your thoughts and your story; also keep in mind that good and meaningful pictures complement a well written story; don’t be overly concerned about the style or diction. Leave the job of embellishment to us and we will give your write-up the extreme make over, if need be.

This issue of the “Voice,” by design, focuses on Grand Lodge events and lodge activities. There are articles on the opening of “The Initiated Eye” exhibition at the Octagon Museum; the Universal Brotherhood Weekend with its various activities, such as the Consecration of a new Banner at our Spanish speaking Lodge, twinning ceremonies followed by a special multi-jurisdictional, multi-national Festive Board, and of course our now much talked about Universal Lodge; and finally the Medal of Freedom presentation banquet to cap a wonderful period of Masonic communication and fellowship.

There is always so much to read in the “Voice” about Freemasonry in general and this unique Grand Jurisdiction in particular. Spread the word in your lodges, appendant bodies, ladies organizations, and call on them to become a reader and contributor. The input of the Craft and its supporters is always welcome.

Calendar of Events

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September 9-11

Masonic Leadership Conference at Front Royal

September 23

Appreciation Banquet Honoring Recipients of Grand Lodge Awards

October 21-23

Grand Master’s Class

November 5

Grand Master’s Official Visitation to the Lodges of D.C.

December 10

Annual Communication of Grand Lodge

December 17

Installation of 2006 Grand Lodge Officers

THE FACE OF FREEMASONRY

The Face of Freemasonry W

hat is the face of Freemasonry to the profane world?

Is it that of an irrelevant fraternity of aging jokesters indulging in arcane and antiquated ritual? Is it that of a cabal of reactionary subversives? Or perhaps that of secretive shadow figures, vaguely seen as bigoted. Do we appear to be an intransigent old boys network?

In a recent conversation with a clergy colleague, it became obvious that she had no idea of who and what we are.

When I told her of our diversity, our principles and our works, she said she was amazed and wished some of us were in her congregation! The saddest part of the conversation is that I am sure that members of our fraternity are among those she most relies on to support her ministry!

The best advertisement for Freemasonry that I can think of was revealed in our International Brotherhood Dinner on June 11th at Almas Temple. Two remarkable witnesses were combined in that evening. Grand Master Leonard Proden awarded the Medal of Freedom to the Honorable Brother Dutch Ruppersberger, Member of Congress from Maryland. Moreover, men from the most divergent backgrounds and from nations as diverse as France, Italy, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines and Switzerland were present to break bread together.

Brother Ruppersberger demonstrates that Masons are men of action. As a Member of Congress from a district that includes BWI airport, he learned that members of the armed forces returning to the States from Iraq and Afghanistan were flown at government expense only to a point of entry. After that they were on their own to reach home. As he pointed out, regardless of one’s political views of the Iraq War, we are all under a moral obligation to see that members of our armed forces are treated justly.

Congressman Ruppersberger and his staff began a project titled “Operation Hero Miles.” To date, more than 540 million frequent flyer miles have been donated, enough for over 22,600 round trip flights. While this program would seem to be non-controversial, we learned that Brother Dutch did meet initial resistance to his efforts. Only his dedication, discipline, courage and prosecutorial background were enough to see the project through!

We need to tell the story, not of dead Cowboys, but of live Masons, of men who are making a difference. We need to tell the story of Masonry assertively and proudly, for otherwise those who spread calumny and fear about us will win. We need to tell Dutch Ruppersberger’s story for it speaks of the intent of Masonry.

Rev. Kenneth D. Fuller, Worshipful Master Wm. R. Singleton-Hope-Lebanon Lodge No. 7 Let it be our purpose to nurture diversity of the type that was so evident at our recent international brotherhood banquet. Present at that affair were brethren from many countries and at the festive board men of various religions broke bread in peace and harmony. While the men there assembled held no unanimity concerning partisan politics, theological doctrine, social or economic policy, they were unified in their devotion to the the Supreme Architect and to the chore of building a solid foundation for a more just, peaceful and prosperous world. Our Fraternity lifts the light of hope, founded on truth and reason, and dispels the gloomy darkness of ignorance, superstition and tyranny.

Grand Master Proden presents first “Medal of Honor” of the Grand Lodge to Congressman C. A. Dutch Ruppersberger of Maryland

The spirit that prevailed at the universal brotherhood banquet has always prevailed in Masonry. When I petitioned to receive the degrees, I expected to be in the company of men like my father and uncles; men of a certain age, WASP in background and homogenous in culture.

Imagine my surprise then when, on being brought to light for the first time in Masonry, I saw a Turkish Jew in the East, and African-American in the South, a Filipino as Junior Steward, and Armenians as Senior Deacon and Marshal. And all of these men were members of ONE lodge.

What face will we as DC Masons show to the world in the future? Certainly, we will encourage the attraction of our friends, neighbors, co-workers and relatives who are men The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE FACE OF FREEMASONRY

of wisdom, substance and moral character. We will want to include our society’s leaders. We will want more brethren like Dutch Ruppersberger!

And we will want them to be public about their membership. We want quality members.

And yet, as we know, it is the inner, and not the outer man that matters. The fact of the matter is simple. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s heart by the color of his skin. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s intellect by his speech or accent. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s virtue by his income. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s benevolence by his educational background. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s soul by his job. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s moral character by his orientation. We cannot tell the quality of a man’s devotion to freedom by his place of birth. We cannot tell the depth of a man’s trust in God by the garments he wears.

Hence, it is important that we continue to make it possible for men of quality to find us even as we seek them. What is the fate of Freemasonry in the future?

Where will our next wave of quality members arise? Look around you at your lodge and ask the simple question.

Whose faces do I not see here? What ethnic, religious, linguistic, economic, or social groups are missing from our lodge rooms that are yet visible on the streets and markets of our city, region and nation?

As our nation becomes more pluralistic and our world more densely populated, the challenge to the fraternity remains unchanged. That challenge, as it has always been for us, is the challenge of Freedom; freedom of thought, conscience, religion, action and opportunity. The face of freedom in the long run is the face of diversity. We must be prepared to invite and welcome all men who are of sound mind, under the tongue of good report, and born to be free in mind, soul and body.

Medal of Honor Presentation. (L to R): Grand Master Proden, Junior Grand Warden Elias, Congressman Ruppersberger, and Deputy Grand Master Smith The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE INITIATED EYE

The Initiated Eye M

ore than 500 Freemasons and invited guests enjoyed a gorgeous spring evening at The Octagon celebrating the opening of the exhibition of The Initiated Eye: Secrets, Symbols, Freemasonry and the Architecture of Washington, D.C., featuring paintings by Peter Waddell. The exhibition represents the culmination of an unprecedented partnership between The Octagon Museum, the Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia and the artist, Peter Waddell.

Grand Master Proden greets Roland E. Bogle, President and CEO of the American Architectural Foundation

As President and CEO of the American Architectural Foundation, it was an honor to host the opening event with M.W. Leonard Proden, Grand Master of Masons in D.C. The enormous success of this project is reflected in the 21 beautiful paintings created by Mr. Waddell with the support of an extraordinary committee of Freemasons and Octagon staff, who worked tirelessly together for over 18 months on a weekly basis with Mr. Waddell to shape the scope, focus and content of the paintings that comprise the project.

Partnerships are the key to success for many programs of the American Architectural Foundation. When Peter Waddell suggested the idea for the exhibition and introduced Sherry Birk, Director, The Octagon, and Linnea Hamer, Exhibitions Coordinator, to key individuals from the Freemason community, including Paul Dolinsky and

Roland E. Bogle, President and CEO American Architectural Foundation Akram Elias, the excitement and enthusiasm that was generated from that first meeting infused the project and continues to this day. I particularly wish to thank these individuals and all the participants for their hard work and continued support.

The exhibitions at The Octagon strive to surprise, delight, teach and inspire the public who visit the residence and view these presentations. The theme of architecture, design, and decorative arts must support the museum’s many projects. Based on the extensive national press, numbers of visitors to the exhibition, overwhelming attendance at programs and lectures, and visitors’ enthusiastic comments, the success of this project seems to be assured.

It was also a pleasure to host so many Freemasons with friends, family, and guests for an evening of celebration at The Octagon, one our city’s and our nation’s finest examples of Federal period architecture.

Peter Waddell, artist, speaks to Among those in attendance were Congressman C.A. crowd about his paintings Dutch Ruppersberger, and former Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend.

Many of our nation’s forefathers, who were, in fact, Freemasons, visited and were entertained at The Octagon throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As we continue to celebrate our nation’s history with a fresh eye and new perspective through this truly unique exhibition, which will travel nationally after its presentation at The Octagon, a better understanding of Freemasonry and its contributions to our history and heritage as a nation will be revealed.

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REACHING OUTWARD THROUGH MASONRY

Reaching Outward Through Masonry Curtin Winsor, Jr., Cincinnatus Lodge No. 76

A

merican Masonry has fallen into an inward reverie since the chaotic challenges of the Civil Rights Movement and the anarchy of the 1960s. American Masons are not alone in this respect, but until then, we had been among the most outward looking of Masonic Brotherhoods. Today, our Craft faces real threats spanning the oceans that once protected us. Force of arms is not enough to assure our survival. The growth of moral relativism is a corrosive spiritual disease that students of history can trace to societal decadence.

Today, moral relativism is again straining the social compacts of the United States and, even more so, the nations of Western Europe. Thus our dwindling Craft is challenged to manifest its values and to once again open itself outward, to appeal to youth, and to appeal especially to those craving core values and civic leadership that transcend special interests and the victim mentality.

Cincinnatus Lodge No.76 of the Grand Lodge of D.C. is striving respond to the challenge by participating in an unprecedented program of cooperation with Masons in the Philippines.

The program that we envision involves the development of Masonic projects and support organizations to create better health and educational opportunities for residents of the Philippines, and most importantly, it aims to create wealth and jobs in depressed areas in that nation. It will do so by developing Masonic cooperatives and by bypassing ineffective existing economic structures.

With this in mind RWB Akram Elias, the founding Worshipful Master of Cincinnatus Lodge, joined me on a trip to the Philippines in May of 2004. On that trip we visited Lodges, located in Manila (General Artemis Ricate

Curtin Winsor, JW of Cincinnatus Lodge No. 76, ministers to the youth of the southern Philippines

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REACHING OUTWARD THROUGH MASONRY

Our Philippine endeavor is a test of unprecedented Masonic cooperation in a difficult environment. Can our Muslim Brothers in Jolo build and sustain community water projects? Can Masons create a network based on Masonic values and trust that can function in a systemically corrupt society?

Akram Elias, JGW, developing Filipino good will.

Lodge), Jolo (Bud Daho Lodge No.102) and Zamboanga (Mt. Apo Lodge and Samoanga Lodge No. 310).

Brothers that we met in Jolo included the present and former mayors of Jolo City, a key banker, an engineer, lawyers and businessmen. The Bud Daho Lodge included a strong cross section of the region’s leadership.

During our meetings in Jolo it occurred to us that the vigor and open desire for development by our Jolo brothers might be encouraged by American Freemasons. We then suggested that Cincinnatus Lodge twin with Jolo’s Bud Daho Lodge in the hope that this would be a step toward forging strong Masonic linkages and possible commitment to long term cooperation. Our Jolo Brothers were receptive to this idea.

Our Brothers from Zamboanga (Mt. Apo and Samoanga Lodges) in the nearby region of southern Mindanao, were also eager to work with us and to twin with Cincinnatus.

At this time, we met with retired Major General Tony Santos, a Mason who is the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and a National Security Advisor to President Gloria Arroyo.

Brother Santos invited us to a stated communication of his Lodge when we returned to Manila. This lodge had once had been an exclusively military lodge, but its membership at present is about 60% from the military and 40% from the civilian sector. Twinning was discussed here also.

Cincinnatus Lodge subsequently voted to approve twinning with the three identified Filipino Lodges. Brother Elias and I returned to Manila and met with Brother Santos and

Officers of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. Included were General Ebdane, who was Deputy Grand Master and the National Security Advisor to the President, and two other officers of the Grand Lodge At this meeting it was revealed that the lodges in Jolo and Zamboanga had formally agreed to the proposed twinning ceremony with a D.C. Lodge. On behalf of Cincinnatus Lodge and at the behest of Brother Elias, it was suggested that the twinning ceremony be scheduled on the Universal Brotherhood Weekend, June 9th through 13th, 2005. Invitations were extended to the leaders of the twinning lodges and arrangements were made for their travel and accommodation at the upcoming universal weekend in Washington.

In subsequent meetings Akram and I, and sometimes I alone, met with a number of Philippine leaders, including the army brigade commander in Jolo, Brigadier Ayala.

This led to a dinner meeting with military Masons of the Christian and Muslim faiths, out of which evolved a proposal to complete several civic action projects in Jolo’s communities and the outer islands of the Sule Archipelago.

The Brothers of Bud Daho Lodge were not to be outdone.

They offered engineering talent, financing, fuel and “political and local capacity” to cut through red tape for Masonic projects. I, in turn, offered to attempt to induce American Brothers to purchase materials for the projects envisioned. On my return to Manila, I again met with Brother Santos, who reaffirmed Brigadier Ayala’s offer for civic action and Armed Forces cooperation. He and I devel-

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REACHING OUTWARD THROUGH MASONRY

oped the concept of a network of Masonic cooperatives that could extend from a protective and tax exempt, Masonic organization in Manila, to fishing and agricultural cooperatives in the nation’s poorest outlying areas.

Brother Elias and I returned to Manila on April 28th of 2005. We had been invited to attend the election of Most Worshipful Brother Ebdane as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. Our Brothers were there from Jolo, Zamboanga and Manila. They emphasized that they looked forward to their forthcoming Washington visit, where they would present a plan to provide potable water to three areas of the City of Jolo that had no access to running or potable water.

Lodge of Jolo have knowledgeable brothers investigating opportunities for high-end fisheries marketing.

The projects suggested are unprecedented. They challenge U.S. Masons in several respects. The Cincinnatus Lodge and U.S. Brothers intend to raise $35,000 to buy materials for the Jolo water projects. These materials will be purchased in the Philippines from Filipino Masons who

The water project was selected as the first endeavor so as to demonstrate the feasibility of Mason-directed projects and enterprises. It was agreed that the water projects would be presented to the Grand Lodge of the Curtin Winsor, JW of Cincinnatus Lodge No. 76 and RW Akram Elias, JGW, with leaders of District of Columbia and to Bud Daho, Mt. Apu, and General Artemis Ricate Lodges in the Philippines Cincinnatus Lodge in Washington.

WB Santos held a meeting in Manila own construction enterprises. Our Jolo Brothers indicate after the Grand Lodge elections to set forth the terms of that the projects will be completed within sixty days of the reference for the a proposed Masonic umbrella entity. arrival of the construction materials.

A group of sixteen Brothers from the Philippines were met at National Airport by WM Gary Nordlinger of Cincinnatus Lodge and me on May 7th. On the following day, these Brothers made an impressive presentation to our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Leonard Proden, and officers of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, and to other visiting Grand Masters. They attended all of the events of Universal Brotherhood Weekend, which culminated with the twinning of the three Filipino lodges with Cincinnatus at the Scottish Rite Temple.

Our Muslim and Christian Filipino Brothers returned home invigorated with what they learned and experienced.

Jolo’s Bud Daho Lodge is standing by to initiate the water projects. WB Santos is completing the arrangements and assembling a powerful membership for our “protective and not for profit Masonic umbrella” in Manila and General Artemis Ricate Lodge is seeking a cooperative opportunity in the Manila - Luzon region. Mount Apo and Samboanga Lodges of Zamboanga and Bud Daho

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Our Philippine endeavor is a test of unprecedented Masonic cooperation in a difficult environment. Can our Muslim Brothers in Jolo build and sustain community water projects? Can Masons create a network based on Masonic values and trust that can function in a systemically corrupt society? The cooperatives program will show whether a network of Masons that extends from highest levels of power in the society to the Muslim villages, can break out of the stranglehold imposed by the elite on small entrepreneurs, farmers and fishermen.

Masons are building bridges to open up opportunities in a closed society, span religious differences and enable people to help themselves. It can open American eyes and hearts to the potential of our Craft in our own country, in an hour of increasingly dire need. This venture will offer a means to test our willingness to adapt our Masonic energies to our times, by looking and reaching outward.

THE REVIVAL OF AMERICAN FREEMASONRY

The Revival of American Freemasonry Andre Salmon, PM

D

uring the Battle of Britain, Sir Winston Churchill, referring to the British fighter pilots defending London, said: “So many owe so much to so few”. About our present Masonic family, according to my experience, we could say: “Too few do too much for too many who do nothing”. How come? Why do we often hear reports on decline in membership and why do we notice limited lodge attendance relative to membership?

The objectives of Masonry are to make men better and subsequently to make a better society. To quote Albert Pike, Masonry aims at “the physical and moral amelioration, and the intellectual and spiritual improvement of individuals and society through the dissemination of moral, political, philosophical and religious truths”.

Masonry is indeed above all a philosophical society focusing on spiritual enlightenment, which should be the first and foremost goal of human life.

To know oneself is the Mason’s first duty. His second duty is to reflect on the great mysteries of the universe and on the human condition, which is an integral part of it. It is only by enlightening men’s individual minds that Masonry can labor to improve the social order. “Falsehood in doctrines and fallacy in principles are indeed the causes of most human miseries and the misfortunes of nations”.

The fight for the eradication of the causes of such misery in society should be the other major priority if Masonry seriously intends to improve the human condition.

Masonry’s philanthropy makes sense to those who benefit from it. However, it is insufficient as it alleviates the effects of social evils without attacking the causes. It is like applying a band-aid on deadly poisoned flesh, whatever the valuable relief it may bring to the assisted.

The three basic tenets of Masonry are Brotherly Love, Charity and Truth. What do Masons generally do to comply with these principles? Brotherly love often takes the form of camaraderie, fellowship, helping one another directly or through social and professional connections and having fun together (even during communications!).

With regard to charity, in addition to valuable hands-on assistance to isolated brothers and visit to hospitals, charity consists in distributing the benefits of dividends

from investments and collections of the box of fraternal assistance. This addresses some effects of poverty, but does not fight the causes. It may indeed greatly help recipients and soothes the Mason’s good conscience, but it does not essentially improve society.

The search for Truth often boils down to the primary level of morality: We are told to be good boys, be candid and always tell the truth. We are also exhorted to be true to our commitments and friends. All this is good and down to earth, but does not rise high above the profane world, whatever the good intentions and laudable practical results. It does not change society fundamentally for the better.

Most of the other activities related to the Craft are often trivial. They are far from the quest for the “True Word”, the “True Name of God”, that is to say “the highest and noblest conception of divine reality that Man’s limited mind is capable of forming”, and its application to society.

With regard to “recruitment”, a debatable concept of democracy seems to prevail according to which anybody is entitled to enter Masonry. Emphasis is often placed on quantity rather than selective moral, intellectual and spiritual quality. A number of Masons are even made at sight.

The three “Blue” degrees and even the 29 “Higher” degrees may be conferred within one or two days. After this “efficient processing”, the new “Masters”, ‘’Knights’’ or “Princes” are often left by themselves without any substantial supporting literature, guidance or assignment.

Under those circumstances, many new “Masters” or “Sublime Princes” “processed” each year rarely or never come back to the lodge on a regular basis and, when they do, they may find that a proper symbolic decor is often lacking. During communications members occasionally talk privately about irrelevant subjects, move about as they please, and in some instances, even consume soft drinks!

The posture, attitudes and attire of some members lack dignity. Trivial minutes and bureaucratic discussions are The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE REVIVAL OF AMERICAN FREEMASONRY

frequently overly detailed. Rituals are performed at full speed, as if concentrating on their substance did not matter. The main preoccupation seems to be to save time, as if the most efficient communication would consist in closing before even opening! To do what with the time saved?

Albert Pike gives the answer: “The dignity of human nature and the vast hidden powers of the human Soul are the greatest gifts of God, but we squander these gifts to us through profane trivial pursuits”.

Masonry must revisit the ways and means to promote its fundamental objectives. Masonry must primarily be a school of thought, a training school to free and broaden the mind. It must focus on awakening slumbering minds stuck in the automaticisms and virtuality of modem profane life.

I have asked young professionals and middle-aged candidates applying for initiation what they expect from a society like ours. In substance their answers focus on (a) relief from the stress of profane professional life; (b) alleviation of subconscious existential anguish, and finding a sense to human existence in a madly fast changing, dangerous world, with its social and professional instability, and dazzling production of new models for everything every day; (c) escape from the materialistic and utilitarian way of life with its constantly unsatisfied useless needs triggered by the harassing advertising of a consumer economy; and (d) escape from the artificial virtual environment which mentally links Man with the whole world through a computer, but leaves his human reality, his effectivity, utterly isolated within his cubicle of concrete.

Masonry must revisit the ways and means to promote its fundamental objectives. Masonry must primarily be a school of thought, a training school to free and broaden the mind. It must focus on awakening slumbering minds stuck in the automaticisms and virtuality of modem profane life. Masonry must help men learn how (a ) to relax through mindfulness, inner peace and beauty; (b) to increase and purify consciousness by calmly concentrating on the Masonic substance of its rituals; and (c) to revive a sense of wonderment at nature’s scientific mysteries and cultivate a vivid interest in the fundamental issues in modem society, viewed in the light of Masonic intellectual and moral ideals.

If indeed Masonry is virtue, it is also science and conscience. “Moral excellence must be intimately bound with mental cultivation and intellectual powers”.

Masonry must therefore focus on spirituality and higher levels of consciousness beyond the formal, theoretical The Voice of Freemasonry

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approach of established religions and political parties, to help Man find within his inmost being, his Soul, the living divine reality of his own essential nature.

Establishing inner harmony and quiet increases consciousness of the maddening dispersion and agitation of profane life and makes it easier to understand the roots of human and social problems, a sine-qua-non before we may start fighting to improve society.

How does a lodge accomplish such a beneficial mutation? La France Lodge No. 93 has made its meeting place an inspirational temple of peace, harmony and beauty. A moment of meditation, after the communication is ritually opened, helps calm the mind and break with the preoccupations of profane life.

Inspirational music (Masonic by preference) and appropriate lighting, in keeping with the various phases of the ritual, are also conducive to elevating consciousness in its search for Truth. A dignified dress code and behavior, composure and discipline add to this sacred atmosphere.

Second, as a Mason’s life is a ceaseless learning process, Masonic education is emphasized. It consists in regular presentations on Masonic symbolism and history, esoteric knowledge in the various Masonic traditions and other spiritual movements (e.g. Kabbalah, Gnosticism or Rose-Croix), and spiritual and philosophical traditions throughout history across world cultures (e.g. Egypt, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Islam).

The objective is twofold: to discover the common core of love and wisdom in mankind’s perennial quest for Truth and subsequently to realize one’s own Divine Truth in one’s Inner Temple. Moreover, in order to engage more meaningfully in making a better society, the fundamental problems that affect present society and condition its social future are the subjects of major presentations (e.g. globalization, scientific and technological progress and morality, tyranny and democracy).

Third, in addition to spiritual and intellectual self-realization, universal human communion is another major objective in a number of lodges. This involves establishing close bonds with sister lodges, Masonic organizations and society, locally and internationally, with a view to shaping a better world where justice, freedom and love prevail. Therefore, lodge inter-visitation is pro-

THE REVIVAL OF AMERICAN FREEMASONRY

moted in order to discover specific affinities and tighten bonds among a wide variety of Masons, and acquire the best practices of select lodges.

Twinning with foreign lodges and regular international visitations are also expanding with success. A particular example is provided by La France Lodge No. 93 whose prime objective is to bridge American and French-speaking Masonry through mutual knowledge of the specific features and merits of their respective traditions, and establishing a meeting point in the Nation’s capital to introduce visiting French-speaking Brothers to local Masonic resources. Another of its specific targets is the sensitization of Masonic society to human distress. In this respect, La France Lodge supports a project to assist abandoned children and mothers in the Republic of Benin.

Fourth, it is increasingly felt that the general public should be made aware of what Masonry is actually

about. Therefore, a number of lodges are implementing philanthropic outreach programs, public exhibitions and “open lodges” through which the public can get acquainted with an actual lodge in operation, participate in attractive presentations and impartial debates, and enjoy its hospitality. The other objective is to provide all the candid information possible so that the public may vote not only in conscience, but also on the basis of the best objective knowledge available.

Achieving success in activities such as those I have suggested will probably demand drastic changes in lodge management and procedures. But this is possible. If there is a will, there is also a way, given well-motivated leadership. Let us resolve to make our Masonic lodges attractive “beehives” in which ardor and order for the common good are so that all Brothers can study, love one another, beautify life, and make the most of the opportunities which we have been afforded.

Presentation of

Silver Fidelity Medal O

n April 13, 2005 at the Scottish Rite Center in Washington, DC, Brother Luigi Lino was presented the Grand Lodge Fidelity Medal for Italia Lodge. The presentation was made by the Grand Master, MWB Leonard Proden, who was accompanied by RWB Akram R. Elias, JGW. and RWB. Joseph Crociata, JGS. Brother Lino, who has been a member of the Craft since January 1952, affiliated with Italia Lodge upon its founding in November 2001. He now serves the Lodge as Chaplain.

Fidelity Medal recipient Brother Luigi Lino (left) with Grand Master Leonard Proden.

Members of Italia Lodge No. 2001 gather to honor Brother Luigi Lino (center). Grand Master Leonard Proden (left) and Worshipful Master Francesco Luigi Legaluppi (right) flank him.

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UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD WEEKEND — 2005

Universal Brotherhood Weekend — 2005 W

hat has been, as the name implies, a weekend celebration among a limited group of friends on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, has become almost a full week of events attracting Masons from all over the world. Thus the June 8-11 celebration of this year, while following the established format of the past, broke new ground in the realm of Masonic universality.

To say the least, what was purely an international weekend has virtually become a universal week-long experience, one that was enjoyed this year by brethren and friends from all of the world’s continents, save Australia. It provided an unforgettable combination of inter-cultural experiences, fraternal and social, in which men of diverse cultures met on the square and in the interest of universal benevolence and understanding. Joining us for the festivities were Grand Master of Maryland, Roland Bélanger; Past Grand Master of Connecticut, Joseph Howard; and the current Junior Grand Warden of Delaware, Earl Emerson, Jr. Those here from other countries included Grand Masters Saad Lahrichi and Thomas Alvarez Manrique, from Morocco and Peru respectively, and a host of Grand Lodge officers from this and other countries including the Grand Treasurer of the National Grand Lodge of Romania, the Deputy Grand Master of New Jersey, the Grand Chancellor of Switzerland, the Grand Inspector of the Grand Lodge National Française, the Senior Grand Deacon and the Deputy Grand Marshal of Grand Lodge of Morocco, the Grand Chancellor of the Grand Orient of Italy,

Grand Master of Peru and Grand Chancellor of the Grand Orient of Italy (seated) at the Twinning Ceremony of Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92 and Italia Lodge No. 2001 with their counterparts from Peru and Italy.

and Tony Santos of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines.

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The program included the impressive ceremonies whereby D.C. and sister lodges abroad were twinned on Friday, June 10. Our Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92 was twinned with Virtud y Union Lodge No. 3 and Enrique

Maximillian G. Ullman and Richard J. Bautista Meiggs Lodge No. 34, both located in Lima, Peru, with the Grand Master of Peru, MWB Tomas Alvarez Manrique, participating. Also twinned were our Cincinnatus Lodge No. 76 with Mt. Apo Lodge 45, Samoanga Lodge No. 310, and Bud Daho Lodge No. 102 in the Philippines.

Following the very formal twinning ceremony the brethren retired to Grand Master Proden presiding at the the refectory to enjoy “Twinnings” linking D.C. Lodges No. 76, an extended period of 92 and 2001, with counterparts in fellowship about the Philippines, Peru and Italy. festive board.

The table lodge that ensued was ably presided over by our Junior Grand Steward, RW Joseph Crociata (see separate article in this issue of the “Voice”). There the brethren enjoyed the usual banter that takes place at such gatherings, while adhering to the practice of offering traditional toasts and responses. Among the latter was that given by our Senior Grand Deacon, RW Kwame Acquaah (see separate article in this issue).

On Saturday morning, June 11, the brethren were again treated to a communication in which the native tongues of all present were to be heard in the opening, closing, and in the spoken remarks of the dignitaries present. The afternoon on Saturday was spent in sight seeing about town, including visits, for those so inclined, to the exhibit of Masonic paintings on display at the Octagon Museum.

The climax of the weekend was reached at the Universal Brotherhood Banquet, held at Almas Temple, on Saturday evening. Highlighting the evening was the presentation of the Medal of Freedom of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia to U.S. Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, a Maryland Mason. Congressman Ruppersberger is a member of Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 116 in Towson, Maryland, a 33° Scottish Rite Mason, and a member of Boumi Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. in Baltimore. He was selected as the first recipient of the Medal of Freedom in recognition of his work, in an out of the Congress, on behalf of military personnel serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The activities of Universal Brotherhood Weekend — 2005, without question, immensely strengthened the ties by which we are linked, Masonically, with like-minded men throughout the world.

BANNER CONSECRATION IN ALIANZA FRATERNAL AMERICANA LODGE NO. 92

Banner Consecration in Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92

By Cesar A. Pain, Sr., P.M.

I

n a somber and colorful ceremony, Alianza Fraternal

Americana Lodge No. 92, consecrated its new Banner in the presence of MWB Leonard Proden, Grand Master of the District of Columbia, and MWB

Tomas

Alvarez

Manrique, Grand Master of Peru, who was here to attend the universal Masonic events as our invited guest. This special ceremony, not practiced in American Masonry, served as the opening event in the celebration of 2005 Universal Brotherhood in the Nation’s Capital. A number of Past

Pictured (L to R) are Grand Master Proden, Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia; Worshipful Jose A. Boggio, Master of Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92; and Grand Master Tomas Alvarez Manrique, Grand Master of Peru

Grand Masters, Grand Lodge Officers, including the Deputy

the old and the new banner were placed side by side, to

Grand Master of our Grand Jurisdiction, and the

the east of the altar, and then the ceremonial transfer of

Worshipful Masters of Virtud y Union Lodge No. 3 and

the commemorative medals from the old to the new ban-

Enrique Meiggs Lodge No. 34 of Lima, Peru, were also

ner was begun. On completion this ceremony was

in attendance.

followed by the pinning of medals from the Orden y

Worship Master Jose A. Boggio received the Grand Masters of Peru and the District of Columbia with full honors and greeted them at the altar. The Grand Masters were then afforded Grand Honors, “Triple, Triple Salutations” of Jubilee, worthy of their high Masonic

Libertad Lodge No. 2, Virtud y Union Lodge No. 3, Trabajo y Honradez Lodge No. 17, Enrique Meiggs No. 34, all in the Lima District; Roman Castilla Lodge No. 112 in San Isidro; and the medal of Armonia y Fraternidad No.174 in the District of Huaraz.

standing, and escorted to the East, where Grand Master

The Worshipful Master then led the brethren in bidding

Proden was presented with the gavel of authority.

farewell to the old Banner and honoring it for represent-

The Ceremony of Consecration of the new Banner of Alianza Fraternal Lodge No. 92, according to a tradition in Peru dating back to 1856, was led by MWB Tomas Alvarez Manrique . Upon the completion of the ceremony,

ing the Lodge worthily, through the years. The old banner then was handed over to the secretary, Cesar Pain, PM, for safe keeping, and the new Banner was positioned in its place of honor in the East.

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THE TABLE LODGE: A CELEBRATION OF UNIVERSAL FELLOWSHIP

The Table Lodge: A Celebration of Universal Fellowship Joseph S. Crociata, JGS

“Let us Celebrate the Virtues of a Good

and Proper Feaste”

S

ince its rise in the British Isles during the 15th and 16th Centuries, modern Freemasonry has informed and enriched the civilization of many lands. Certainly, many of the concepts that find expression in our rituals and ceremonies have moved from the lodge room into common use in our language: “being on the level,” “giving him the third degree,” and so on. Nowhere is our influence greater, however, than in the traditions surrounding the formal Masonic feast, or “the Table Lodge” as an expression of celebration and social esteem.

and the “Dining In,” which is the military’s rough equivalent to our ceremony. Just as phrases from our ritual found their way into the general language, so did expressions from our Festive Board, such as “toastmaster” and “the firing line,” move into general usage: The Table Lodge as practiced in much of the Eastern United States was developed by R.W. John Mauk Hilliard of Independent Royal Arch Lodge No. 2 of New York, after extensive research on the Masonic feasts of

The modern practice of Masonry was first perfected in the inns and taverns of Scotland and England, where early Lodges met and celebrated the social virtues of the Craft at the table. Indeed, the social traditions of the Craft have always been practiced in the context of good wine, song and discourse. This is not to say that those who abstain are excluded from the fellowship of our Royal Art, as access to Masonic theory, philosophy and fellowship is available to all. Nonetheless the joys and benefits of Masonic practice are most accessible to men who have the capacity and inclination to revel in moderation with their fellows.

In any case, as our ceremonies and traditions of toasting and dining became established, they were spread throughout the world by British regimental Lodges operating under warrants from the Grand Lodges of Scotland, Ireland and England. And as the regular practice of the “Table Lodge” became widespread, the influence of its forms and ceremonies was felt beyond our fraternity.

Many correlations are found between the Table Lodge

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Firing Glass, England, mid 19th century

England and France in the 18th Century. His 1989 paper “A Form And Order for a Masonic Feast and Assembly” is the model for this Table proceeding, as well as for those celebrated by many other Masonic Bodies. It is a variant of Masonic ritual, which embodies the concept of free-

THE TABLE LODGE: A CELEBRATION OF UNIVERSAL FELLOWSHIP

In 18th century taverns the cadence was sounded by the use of thick-bottomed glass toasting glasses, commonly referred to as “cannons.”

By striking the cannon upon the table at a position beyond a ribbon or tape which marked the “firing line,” our brethren of old acknowledged their approval by a sequence of twenty-one beats — the ceremonial equivalent of the twenty-one gun salute, an honor reserved for heads of state.

dom within a strict framework, allowing the guests to be at once participants and spectators. Focus and unity are achieved by strict control of the proceeding by the “celebrant,” the Master or his designated substitute. This idea of freedom within a framework of rules is in the finest tradition of the 18th Century Enlightenment and speaks to the essence of Freemasonry, as well as the notion of constitutional government so prized by our Masonic forbearers.

Since its beginnings in England, the form of the Table Lodge has remained constant throughout the ages: a ceremony of seven toasts, to the National Sovereign, to the Lodge, the Worshipful Master, and so on. Each toast is an expression of the good will of all present – the manifestation of the fellowship that is basic to any Masonic gathering. Responses to the toast, both by the group as a whole and by individuals selected for the purpose, makes the Table Lodge a unique expression of enlightenment. Individually, a member of the board selected for the purpose is called upon to volunteer the product of his education, intelligence and wit, to offer the Lodge something of interest and value on the subject of the toast. As a group, the board responds by striking a cadence, in a ceremony known as “the Good Fire.”

In 18th century taverns the cadence was sounded by the use of thick-bottomed glass toasting glasses, commonly referred to as “cannons.” By striking the cannon upon the table at a position beyond a ribbon or tape which marked the “firing line,” our brethren of old acknowledged their approval by a sequence of twenty-one beats — the ceremonial equivalent of the twenty-one gun salute, an honor reserved for heads of state. In our day, we avoid much of the noise (and all of the breakage) by the use of gesture and chant in the British tradition, which carry

Masonic meaning to different portions of the “Good Fire.”

This year’s Universal Brotherhood Weekend provided the stage for a unique Table Lodge. Grand Master Leonard Proden presided over one of the most wide-ranging assemblies of Masons in the history of the ceremony. As evidence, consider the dignitaries whose presence graced the head table: Grand Representatives from the National Grand Lodge of Romania, Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland, Grand Loge Nationale Française, Grand Lodge of Peru, Grand Lodge of Morocco, Grand Lodge of the Philippines and the Grand Orient of Italy shared the dais with Grand and Past Grand Masters from Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland.

Barriers of language and custom fell, as Masons broke bread together in peace and harmony.

The traditional seven toasts were specially amended for the occasion, making room for a toast to Universal Brotherhood, and the fellowship of the Craft throughout the world. Toasts were proposed by distinguished Masons from our own jurisdiction such as Past Grand Masters George R. Adams and Mansour Hatefi, Grand Lodge Officers Albert McNair Smith and Akram Elias, and Brothers Gary Nordlinger, Bill Means, and Max Ullmann (under whose watchful eye as Universal Brotherhood Weekend Committee Chair, the ceremonies of the weekend were conducted).

Responses to the toasts were made by other dignitaries such as our own Grand Secretary, Mansour Hatefi, Senior Grand Deacon Kwame Acquaah, Worshipful Francesco Legaluppi of Italia Lodge 2001, and others.

The keynote response of the evening was delivered from the head table, in a spirited and inspiring address by Ronald G. Bélanger, Grand Master of Masons of the State of Maryland. The final response of the evening was offered by our own Grand Master, Len Proden.

At the evening’s close, the Grand Tiler, Brother Gerhard Meinzer, gave the traditional “Tyler’s Toast” to all poor and distressed Masons, with a wish for enduring fellowship and brotherhood among those present: “Happy to Meet, Sorry to Part, Happy to Meet Again.” With joined hands and a chorus of “Auld Lang Syne,” brothers from around the world affirmed their brotherhood, and resolved to carry an enduring message of fellowship and celebration, upon returning to their native lands.

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RESPONSE TO FESTIVE BOARD TOAST INTERNATIONAL WEEKEND

Response to Festive Board Toast Universal Brotherhood Weekend Kwame Acquaah, SGD Most Worshipful Grand Master, Visiting Grand Masters, Worshipful Master, and Brethren: I am honored to be asked to reply to the excellent toast proposed to the Ancient and Gentle Craft and the Memory of our Founders. Indeed, I am delighted to do so because I share the sentiments so ably expressed by the proposer of the toast and I reply with my reasons.

There is so much to say concerning these good fellows and brethren who have left us a legacy of a noble and honorable fraternity committed to teaching its members about Divine Truth, or expressed differently, about the nature of God and of man’s relations to Him. A fraternity, universal in its nature and character, and global in its reach as demonstrated by the presence here this evening of brethren from various countries. This glorious sight brings to mind the maxim,

“In every clime, a Freemason may find a home, And in every land, a Brother.”

We all know that our gentle Craft, as currently organized, took off following the historic gathering of the fine brethren of the Four Old Lodges who met at the Goose & Gridiron Ale House in St. Paul’s Churchyard on the Feast of St. John the Baptist on June 24, 1717. They sought to formalize Freemasonry by organizing the premier Grand Lodge of England, thinking it fit “to cement under a Grand Master, as a center of union and harmony.” To these mostly unnamed visionary brethren, who chartered our course and, possibly, are largely responsible for the growth of the Craft, we owe a great debt of gratitude and, therefore, as we savor our toast, let us affectionately think of them.

Worshipful Master, I will not be doing justice to the memory of the giants whose labors have allowed generations, including ours, to study and enjoy masonry if I do not recall the names of a few of them. Therefore, permit me to recall such pioneering Masters and Grand Masters in

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England as Anthony Sayer, George Payne, and Rev. Dr. Theophilus Desaguliers, distinguished Masons all, whose contributions will take too long to elaborate.

Our inheritance, perhaps, wouldn’t be what it is but for the creativity and hard work of Rev. Dr. James Anderson who put together “The Constitutions of the Freemasons” (1723). Significantly for me, the elaborate frontispiece of that great book was engraved by a famous artist of the day, John Pine, regarded as the first black man to be made a Mason in England. This singular development assures those of us of African heritage, that we have always had a place at the table of Freemasons and that our Founders, indubitably, would have considered racism to be inimical to the Craft.

Our Founders’ desire to celebrate rather than tolerate our differences and their appreciation for universality is further demonstrated in the work of United Grand Lodge of England Grand Master, Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, son of King George III. It was through his valiant efforts that, by 1816, the Craft had been deChristianized, thus re-affirming and expanding the undenominationalism found in the 1st Charge in Anderson’s Constitutions, and thereby opening the portals of Freemasonry to men of all faiths, at that time, particularly to Jews.

More can be said about our Founders. For, I remain in bewildered awe of the intellectual power of those of our Founders who authored the rich, beautiful, intricate, complex, mysterious, informative and instructive ritual of the Craft degrees presented as a ‘peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.’ My unbounded wonderment is as alive today as it was when I was first exposed to the trilogy of the Masonic drama of the Craft degrees. Only geniuses could construct such a moving instructional piece overflowing with symbolism,

RESPONSE TO FESTIVE BOARD TOAST INTERNATIONAL WEEKEND

which informs those with eyes to see and ears to hear that,

tributions of Simon Bolivar and Juan Jose de San Martin, among others, in building Freemasonry in the countries to the south of this land of the free and home of the brave.

In the 1st degree the underlying principle is the morning of life, with its future pregnant with possibilities still before one. In the 2nd degree, the central idea is the noontime of life, when man has arrived at the zenith of his strength, and in the fullness of his powers, is engaged in the pursuit of knowledge. And in the 3rd degree, the cardinal teaching is the setting of the sun of life and the rising of the star of immortality.

Our brethren from the Philippines no doubt have been thinking about Emilio Aguinaldo and Marcelo delPilar; those from Italy cannot forget Giuseppe Garibaldi; and those from France will not want us to overlook the Count of Clermont and the Count of St. Germain.

This elegant ritual, full of meaning, allows for regular study, out of which a Mason could make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge throughout his life, although succeeding in merely scratching its surface. In matters of the ritual, the toast brings to mind William Preston in England and Thomas Webb of Rhode Island whose work influenced the ritual commonly used in these United States.

We have a lot to learn from our Founders. When we think about the uncompromising need to treat our lodges as jewels, I am quickly reminded of Dr. George Oliver, of blessed memory, who as one of the leading writers in England on the Craft in the early 18th century, left us many gems, including, “Be cautious whom you recommend as a candidate for initiation; one false step on this point may be fatal. If you introduce a disputatious person, confusion will be produced which may end in the dissolution of the Lodge.”

Worshipful Master, although the Craft, as we practice it, originated on the British Isles, I do not want to leave the impression that the only Founders whose memory we honor this evening were to be found in England. That will not only be inaccurate, but also indelicate, given the presence of brethren from all over the world at this Festive Board. In the interest of time, I will refer only to a handful of Founders from a few of the countries represented here tonight.

Here at home, our founding heroes include Daniel Coxe, first provincial Grand Master in America (New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) (1730); Henry Price, first Provincial Grand Master in New England (1733), and dubbed by some as, “Father of American Freemasonry”; Benjamin Franklin, who in 1734, reprinted Anderson’s Constitutions for the first time in America, and also served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania (1734 and 1749); and Prince Hall, the architect of Prince Hall Masonry in America.

In our Jurisdiction, we owe so much to such great Masons as Valentine Reintzel, our first Grand Master (1811), and Past Grand Master Benjamin B. French (1847-1853), the latter named for my Lodge, both being Master Builders of the Craft in our Nation’s Capital.

Worshipful Master, the list goes on, but I have taken too much time and must conclude. As I prepare to sit down, I do so with a very warm feeling because, by the toast of the brethren, I am left in no doubt that we all hold our Ancient and Gentle Craft and the Memory of our Founders dear in your hearts. May this love continue to be reflected in the willingness, zeal and fervency with which we labor in the quarries of Freemasonry to preserve and enhance the Craft, the legacy of our esteemed Founders, and to pass it unsullied to our children and the children yet unborn.

I thank all of you for your patience and indulgence.

Our brethren from Peru will remind us of the unique con-

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GRAND MASTER’S TESTIMONIAL

Grand Master’s Testimonial and Awards Ceremony A

nacostia Lodge No. 21 hosted a testimonial banquet in honor of Grand Master Leonard Proden at the Officers Club at Bolling Field on Friday, June 24, 2005.

More than 300 guests, representing all of the Masonic Bodies of D.C., were on hand to enjoy the festivities.

It was a gala evening, replete with good food, good music, and good fellowship. Monitoring the “show” was Past Grand Master Raymond F. McMullen, who was accompanied from South Carolina by Past Grand Master William C. Miskovic.

The program was fast moving and thoroughly enjoyable.

During dinner, which was expeditiously served, music was provided by a delightful strolling string group under the direction of Roy Beyer.

While there were no lengthy speeches, those present paid appropriate homage to Most Worshipful Brother Proden, with preference being given to the leaders, past and present, of Anacostia Lodge.

Robert K. Blaine, P.M. In his comments the Grand Master spoke sincerely of his involvement in public school education and offered Brother Timothy R. Bennett, Chairman of the Scholarship Committee of the Grand Lodge, an opportunity to speak about the Grand Lodge Scholarship Program.

Brother Bennett then announced that this year the Grand Lodge was awarding $2,500 scholarships to the following graduates of the public high schools of the District of Columbia: Grand Master Proden, Worshipful Donald Marta M. Genovez Showalter, and Master of Ceremonies, Past Grand (Roosevelt High), Master McMullen Jorge Nicolas Pena (Wilson High), Tina N. Pryce (Ellington School of the Arts), Jun Yang (Bell Multicultural High), Alicia T. Harris (Dunbar High), and Charles A. Conway (Eastern High).

Brother Bennett also disclosed that the Grand Lodge had completed arrangements to fund a scholarship in the name of Stewart W. Miner, Grand Secretary Emeritus, in the Kogod School of Business at American University. He also stated that the winner of this $15,000 scholarship for 2005, was Miss Ye Wang, a graduate of Wilson High.

Presentation of $15,000 scholarship to Ye Wang, Wilson High graduate and entering student at the Kogod School of Business in American University.

Present (L to R) were: Priscilla L. Rawlins, Assistant Director of Development at the Kogod School; Timothy Bennett, Chairman, Scholarship Committee; Ye Wang, scholarship designee; Stewart W. Miner, Grand Secretary Emeritus; William F. Harvey, President of the Masonic Foundation; and William DeLone, Acting Dean of the Kogod School of Business

In his remarks the Grand Master expressed his appreciation of and affection for Anacostia Lodge, where he still serves as treasurer. He also thanked the brethren of the jurisdiction for the Masonic honors that have been showered upon him.

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The Grand Master then invited officers of American University, the scholarship winners, and Past Grand Master Miner to the rostrum, where each was afforded an opportunity to speak.

The Dean of the Kogod School expressed his delight with the Grand Lodge decision to create an ongoing scholarship in American University. It was his hope, he said, that this was the beginning of a long-term relationship between the university and the Masonic fraternity.

The evening was brought to a fitting close by remarks of appreciation by Grand Master Proden and the benediction, offered by Past Master and Lodge Chaplain, William H. Thomas.

MASONIC MODEL TEACHERS STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Masonic Model Teachers Student Assistance Program Francis Nicol, Co-chairman “Masonry in the District of Columbia has many reasons to be proud. But when Masonry reaches out and touches the community in a way that can truly help, that is indeed a source of immense satisfaction and pride. It pleases me to no end to report that we have joined many other Grand Lodges in establishing the Masonic Model Student Assistance Training Program for the District of Columbia School system …. How do school personnel identify children and young adults who are at “at risk ” of succumbing to drug and alcohol addiction, and related problems such as teen pregnancy, violence, street gang involvement, depression and suicide? How do you intervene and prevent these children from going down the wrong path?……”

(MWB Mansour Hatefi, GM, 2000, Annual Proceedings, page 56) Under the auspices of the Grand Lodge, some 21 members of the faculty and staff of the R. H. Terrell Junior High School, Washington DC, assembled on Tuesday, June 22, 2005, in the refectory of the Scottish Rite Center, 2800-16th Street, NW, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to participate in a session of the Masonic Model Training Program.

proactive response strategies, and led the teachers in the identification and structuring of intervention modalities and solutions designed to help students flourish academically and socially.

Several D.C. Masons, including Grand Lodge officers, graced the event with their presence and some of them even assisted in the activities of the day. In attendance were the Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia, MWB Leonard Proden; MWB Mansour Hatefi, PGM and Grand Secretary; RWB Al Smith, Deputy Grand Master; RWB. Akram Elias, JGW; RWB Joel Kahn, Grand Lecturer; RWB Kwame Acquaah, SGD; and WB Francis Nicol, Aide to the Grand Master. Also present were WB Todd Duehring, Assistant to the Grand Secretary, along with several other Masons who answered the call to duty.

The Masonic Model Student Assistant Plan is one more instrument of Masonic charity by which much needed services and assistance are channeled into our community. Thanks to the vision of the Grand Master and the instrumentality of his committee, the knowledge, skills and strategies acquired through this professional development session will positively and directly impact the service delivery capacity of the staff and thereby increase student academic achievement at R.H.Terrell Junior High School.

Grand Master Proden and Joann Mirgon, trainer

Notwithstanding the feeling of relief emanating from the downplayed reality that the day marked the last day of school for the teachers, the R. H. Terrell staff, with confident anticipation and an evident yearning for skills essential to coping with their vocational challenges, paid rapt attention to a dynamic and eloquent presentation of the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program.

John and Joann, members of the presentation team, proved exceptionally knowledgeable, vibrant and captivating as they unpacked the essential characteristics of this much acclaimed program. They examined the various challenges that at-risk students face, suggested The Voice of Freemasonry

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4 T H O F J U LY P A R A D E A N D P I C N I C

4th of July Parade and Picnic A Community Outreach

I

n what has become an annual tradition, the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M. of the District of Columbia, this year once again joined with the Palisades Community in northwest Washington, in celebration of the 4th of July, birthday of our country.

Our Deputy Grand Master, Right Worshipful Albert McNair Smith, welcomed the many participating brethren and led the members of the Grand Lodge and appendant bodies down MacArthur Boulevard in this always enjoyable event.

Members of the Grand Lodge of DC, in their white knit shirts and dark slacks and shorts, assisted in distributing American flags during the parade and lent a hand to the Masters and Wardens Association as they prepared and served literally thousands of hot dogs at the picnic which followed the parade. All this time members of our CHIP

Program Committee were busy using state of the art technology to provide the parents of the children enjoying the picnic with a package of tools and procedures that enables them to maintain absolute proof of identity of their children over time.

This was a day to take advantage of the excellent opportunity afforded us by the community to show the public Masonry in action, and to see that we are more than a brick headquarters building in the Palisades neighborhood.

DGM Albert Smith distributing flags at parade

The “Grill Crew” at work at the 4th of July neighborhood picnic

Hot Dogs and Freemasonry: A Personal Testimonial

I

n 1998 after having dealt with more personal blows than a man should have to contend with, I decided that I needed more in my life than the daily drudgery of living in this world. At that point I decided to find out about Freemasonry and see if it was a good fit for me.

The only Mason that I knew was my stepdad, Reynold Sapp, a very good man, one to be emulated. I phoned him and asked, “how can I become a Mason?” Apparently I made his day.

Rey lives in Southern Maryland. He advised me to find a Mason in the District of Columbia and ask him for a petition. Perhaps, he suggested, I might run across one in my line of work.

But after more than 20 years of involvement in the television business, I realized that to the best of my knowledge, I had never met a Mason. Rey reassured me, however, that I should not worry, and that I would, in time, find a sponsor.

Not feeling very confident, I went home and told my sweetie, Jeanne, that I wanted to become a Mason. I told her of my dilemma, of my not knowing any Masons and not having any clue as to where to start.

The next day, on the 4th, Jeanne and I were in front of our house, enjoying what has become our little local custom.

Lo and behold, Masons of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia were in the parade. I followed the procession to the community park and learned that men of the Craft were there engaged in cooking and distributing thousands

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Jeff Russell, SW, Potomac Lodge No. 5 of hot dogs!

I really wanted to talk to one of these guys, but they all were very much engaged with the task at hand. However, I noticed a small booth, off to one side of the park, marked by the logo of the fraternity, the Square and Compasses. I approached the man who was manning the display. On exhibit was a very old gavel which, according to the sign, was used by George Washington for something or other.

I told the fellow at the booth that I would like to be a Mason.

His response was ”What in the world would you want to do a thing like that for?” Now if any of you are acquainted with Worshipful Brother Bob Werdig, you may be saying to yourself, “that fits!”

I told him of my family connection with Masonry and that I was looking for a way to improve myself. I chatted for a while with Bob and his wife, Geraldine, talked to my sweetie. I’m not sure if it was Bob or Geraldine who finally gave me the nod, but out of that conversation, I received a petition for the degrees as conferred in Potomac Lodge No.5.

There are many ways by which a man may come to the door of Masonry, but I never thought it would be via a chance encounter following a Fourth of July Parade.

Hence I shall be eternally grateful for the events of that day, one that proved to be of pivotal significance in my life.

Note: Condensed from Vol. 21, No. 1, of the Potomac Lodge Bulletin

de

V I S I T T O W A LT E R R E E D M E D I C A L C E N T E R

Visit to Walter Reed Medical Center

Grand Lodge Leadership Conference

Tony Murray, PM

O

n June 22, 2005, MWB Leonard Proden, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia accompanied Imperial Sir Raoul Frevel, the Imperial Potentate of the Shrine of North America, on a visit to the Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C. The visit was arranged by Ill. Sir Anthony S. “Tony” Murray, Past Potentate of Almas Shrine Center, and 6th Lt. Commander of the International Association Legions of Honor.

y

The Grand Master and Imperial Potentate visited with six members of the US Army who have been wounded while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. All were From left to right; MWGM Leonard asked, “are we doing Proden, Imp. Sir Raoul Frevel, SFC any good over there?”

Roger Lemacks, US Army, Walter Without question each Reed Staff, and Ill. Sir Tony one said, “YES”. They Murray, PP told us that the troops in Iraq are building schools, hospitals, sanitation facilities and water treatment facilities. These things we do not read about or hear in the media; and we do not hear about what excellent treatment our wounded receive at our service hospitals.

The troops visited at Walter Reed hailed from Virginia, West Virginia, Minnesota, Indiana, Kentucky, and Louisiana. It was encouraging to hear that they all had heard about the Masonic Fraternity and the Shriners, Each thanked us for our visit. And we thanked them for their sacrifice. All of them are worthy of our prayerful and constant concern.

R.W. Paul Gleason, JGD

A

ll Wardens, Deacons, Stewards, and Secretaries of the Subordinate Lodges and all officers of the Grand Lodge have been invited to participate in the annual leadership conference, scheduled for September 9-11, 2005, at the 4-H Conference Center in Front Royal, Virginia.

Registration forms, already mailed to all invitees, are due in the office of the Grand Secretary not later than August 31, along with a registration check of $25.00.

Inasmuch as your check will be returned to you on checkout, there is no out-of-pocket cost to you.

It is essential, however, that registrants file their registrations on time, even earlier than the cut off date, if possible. The Masonic Education and Service Committee needs certain basic information in order to make your stay comfortable and beneficial.

While this conference is intended for 2005 officers of the Constituent Lodges who will continue to serve their Lodges in 2006, other Masons who expect to serve as a Stewart, Deacon, Warden, or Master in 2006 may attend, if authorized by the Deputy Grand Master.

If you have attended a prior conference at this site, you already know what one can learn, given an attentive ear and an open mind. As in previous years, the Secretaries will have their own special sessions on Saturday morning and afternoon.

Additional information and directions to the 4-H Conference Center will be mailed to conference registrants prior to the conference. It is therefore essential that you complete and forward your registration without delay.

What Time is it?

Years ago I read that youth looks forward; the old look back; and the middle aged just look worried! It seems that people, regardless of age, are all time conscious. This universal concern about time is well expressed in a chiseled message that appears around the margins of a sundial at the Morehead Planetarium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. There one may read that: “Today is yesterday’s tomorrow.”

Unwritten at that site, but certainly implied, is a corollary of equal consequence: “Today is also tomorrow’s yesterday.” – The Ancient Mariner The Voice of Freemasonry

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PRESENTATION OF GOLD FIDELITY MEDAL

Presentation of

Gold Fidelity Medal William E. Chaney, PGM

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y vote of the Grand Lodge at the Semi-Annual Communication of that body, the Gold Fidelity Medal was awarded to Worshipful Carl R. LeVine, Grand Lecturer Emeritus and Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. In making the presentation to Brother LeVine, the following citation was read:

Worshipful Brother LeVine served as Chairman of the Masonic code Maintenance Committee for 25 years (1978-2003), and as Chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee for 14 years (1989-2003).

His expertise and great store of knowledge being a conWorshipful Brother LeVine was born in Fredericksburg, stant source of valuable information, Worshipful Brother LeVine has served in a number of capacities associated Virginia, on November 22, 1911. He was raised in with Grand Lodge publications. He served as a member Takoma Lodge No. 29, now Hiram-Takoma Lodge No. of the Publications Committee for 10, on June 22, 1948. Currently 93 six years (1998-2004) and was a years of age and a Master Mason for contributor to the publication of almost 58 years, he has been active The Worshipful Master’s in the Craft throughout his Masonic Handbook and The Lodge career. He was elected an officer in Secretary’s Handbook, reviewing Takoma Lodge in December 1953 these publications while still in draft and served as Master in 1960, also and serving on each of the comserving on the Executive Committee mittees associated with these of the 1960 Master’s Association. In projects. addition to these duties, he was appointed General Chairman of the If you want to get a job done, ask Night of thrills in 1960 and produced Grand Master Proden congratulates WB Carl R. a busy man. And so Worshipful an outstanding evening to the benefit LeVine, latest recipient of the Gold Fidelity Medal Brother LeVine was appointed of the Masonic and Eastern Star Grand Historian of the Grand Home.

Lodge in 1991, a position he still occupies. He is also a member of the Grand Lodge History Committee in 2005.

Worshipful Brother LeVine’s name is synonymous with ritPublished by the Grand Lodge in 1992, Worshipful ual in our Grand Lodge. While still in the East in 1960, Brother LeVine authored a History of the Grand Lodge of Worshipful Brother LeVine began service with the Work Free and Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia, and Lectures Committee in Takoma Lodge. This in turn 1962 to 1991. led to appointment to the Grand Lodge Committee on Work and Lectures, to which he was named Chairman in He has also served as a member of the Grand Lodge 1970. In 1971 he was elected Grand Lecturer Emeritus.

Unfinished Business Committee for eight years and as a In 1990 he was again named to the Work and Lectures member of the Awards Committee for three years. His Committee and has served that Committee since then wise council has been sought by Grand Masters of this continuously. Greatly concerned about the ability to mainJurisdiction for 35 years. tain the purity of our esoteric work, Worshipful Brother LeVine labored diligently on a project to commit in writing Previous honors bestowed upon Worshipful Brother the entire ritual of the first three degrees in this jurisdiction.

LeVine include the Grand Lodge Distinguished Service He then served on the Committee on Masonic Cipher, Award in 1982 and the Valentine Reintzel Medal in 1991. helping to produce the first edition of that publication in Few men have exhibited their devotion and fidelity to this 1994, as well as the second edition in 1997. In addition to all of these important contributions, he has also served Grand Lodge in as many different ways or for so many years as has Worshipful Brother LeVine. His continued as the ritual instructor for many Lodges and individuals. loyalty and demonstrated service to this Grand Lodge His interests did not lie solely in ritual, however. An make him a most deserving recipient of the Grand Lodge acknowledged authority on Masonic jurisprudence, Gold Fidelity Medal.

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SOME KEY LIGHTS OF FREEMASONRY

Some Key Lights of F R E E M A S O N RY John Melius

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reemasonry is widely believed to be a “Secret” fraternity. Although information about the fraternity is unequivocally open and public, misconceptions of its character continue because it does have “secrets.” And because it does, many believe that Freemasons are not to be trusted. How ironic! The “ancient” secrets of the Fraternity have, in fact, built trust in good men with enormous benefits for our society.

By sharing the “ancient” secrets (so called by scholars during the Age of Enlightenment), our fraternity regularly shows its deep trust in new candidates and all those who keep these secrets. By keeping the secrets, moreover, Masonry’s candidates demonstrate their trustworthiness.

When executed properly, the informational transfer produces an invaluable bond among members of the fraternity. Trust is, therefore, a Key Light in Freemasonry.

Democracies cannot exist without basic trust among its citizens. The right to vote does not matter if the integrity of the voting is in question. “E Pluribus Unum” exists only with trust and a voluntary sharing of time and other resources. The secrets of Freemasonry teach and promote voluntary sharing. The sharing of time, of information (lectures and secrets), and of all other resources, including money, is a core value in Freemasonry. Sharing, therefore, is also a Key Light in Freemasonry.

Trust and the ability to share are qualities essential for all good human relations. Without trust and the ability and willingness to share, no human relationship can long endure. Together these attributes form the cement which unites husbands and wives, parents and children, families, business relationships, politics, social groups and all other types of human relationships.

Distrust, on the other hand, generated by thoughts of unfairness and selfishness, poisons the potential of good that is to be found in wholesome relationships. Men who learn about these values in Freemasonry indisputably become a benefit to the society of which they are a part.

Of necessity we make choices every day on the basis of our personal faith and convictions about what is right and

proper. The faith to which I refer is not to be confused with religion or with any specific “true belief”. It does not depend on dogma or tenets set in stone by some ancient source.

Faith is a choice and gives us true freedom. With a strong belief in a benevolent Supreme Being, man can have faith independent of the beliefs and actions of all others.

Faith then is also a Key Light in Masonry. Faith enables tolerance on the highest levels while providing a powerful source of spiritual strength. Can there be freedom without tolerance? Of course not! How can change evolve without tolerance? It can’t! Democracy is a form of government that promotes accepted peaceful change. A healthy democracy depends in large part on the trust, selfless cooperation, and tolerance of those it seeks to serve.

It is distinctly possible that the world might not enjoy diverse forms of democracy today if it had not been subject to the historical influences of Freemasonry. The strong involvement of Masonry in our culture mirrors some of our greatest moments of social change. Political discourse is always more civil when spokesmen of differing persuasions are guided in their discussion by the principles that are revered by members of the Craft.

Yes, Freemasonry has “ancient” secrets that it uses to encourage the building of trust, benevolent sharing, and faith among its adherents. Furthermore the integration and propagation of these virtues by Masons has benefitted our society for centuries.

Many say that Freemasonry makes good men better. And it does. Freemasonry also helps good men to trust other good men; to induce good men everywhere to share their abundance, and to induce faithful men of all races, creeds, and religions, to labor, without rest, in the cause of universal tolerance.

Let us therefore resolve keep the “Key Lights” of Masonry burning brightly, figuratively as beacons in a very troubled world, as lighthouses illuminating the way for those who seek roles in the everlasting struggle to improve society and enlighten mankind.

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MY MASONS

An Ode to Freemasonry in verse So, Gabriel, how are my Masons?

Asked the One who All is.

Not that I wouldn’t know As I live through them well I just like the way you tell Your stories.

Much If every man’s flame is lighted

What they were They are not.

All they could They dare not With your sacred fire They warm their coffee And wonder where the fire went Your word once heard Moist, not dry At the sacred Nile Is feared lost And found Now lost again Searching for it South East and West They find reflections None but shadows In a rush Chasing light Past the cold North In the night Missing to hear The warm word whispered Deep inside them In their dark.

There’s your spark But Are candles and torches enough?

A candle flickers Where a torch should flame How much dark Can a candle tame?

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Luminous They burn united Such force created Strikes its mark

What drums Strike their dance What drives this Dance about?

If it’s love Does it burn Like yours does Or is it traded For heat and favors Of all the imperfections I love my masons best Their test To have Jew, Christian, Muslim Black and white sit as friends Passes rather well Yes but the Jew remains a Jew So the Christian, Muslim too Black stays black White stays White They do manage To avoid some strife But what about the holy land Where creed and race Bleeds on sand

True it is.

Hunt for light Can scorch and maim For light does not fire In safe places You harvest it Through self destruction The known unknown wed Dark-light faces Pungent pits In slums and gutters Where humans bleed And stray dogs sweat Victims of Enlightenment Dread the dark The spectre Warring Cacophonic They buy peace With avoidance Or With love It’s not enough!

Much is learned in confrontation Through plain speaking No evasion There’s your truth There’s your sweat!

My M What would your words To masons be?

MY MASONS

Poetry comes nearer to vital truth than history. – Plato

Find Mount Everest!

But through training Make the climb Run your fingers Through the fabric My archangels Left aborted Scout the unseen The yet unformed The unbirthed Flaming mind Be explorers Actiontakers Mine the coal Leave the gold Learn the sounds Scale the colors The great Cosmos Lets you hold This I told them Tell them still: I share a power Only a moment May every tissue Use it well

I made you wanting Mouth chafed from dryness Unfinished portrait Sketched in coal

Step out of the dance History mates with Whisper the tune Forget the song

The fragrant, acrid Sweet and the bitter Only leave skinprints Where they were before

Words that were chanted Many befores yet Must be rebirthed Not to smell old

The warm flesh is on you The fabric, the patchwork Your yesterdays quilted Of sweat and blood

It’s in the knowing They’ll find information All is inside them They’re but to look

There’s missing in you Waiting to awaken That smoldering wonder You’re envious of

Yes,we need To teach them A different knowing Through their senses Not from a book

Tools of your craft You only see showcased Cramped in a chest Lusting with dust I hold and work them To remind my own self Of the fierceness You’re carriers of

So these are your masons Of all the imperfections My Lord loves the best I give you my fullness To help them pass the test

y Masons It comes and goes Pleases and torments Where it will lead you Cannot tell I carved your eyes To touch the sacred Drink the abundance You have about

Your spongy absorption Must be made use of That child inside you Is easily bored

By Peter Galitzen, PM Albert Pike Lodge No. 33

Feed it the wonder You have created The chocolate magic Your fingers hold

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LORD KITCHENER, AFGHANISTAN, AND FREEMASONRY

Lord Kitchener, Afghanistan, and Freemasonry Christopher L. Kolakowski, Potomac Lodge No. 5

H

oratio Herbert Kitchener, Earl of Khartoum, was one of Britain’s greatest soldiers in the last half of the 19th Century and the first part of the 20th. His victories in the Sudan and the Boer War inspired the public, and his prestige and fame helped recruit a massive British Army for World War I. Yet Kitchener was more than the steely soldier; he was also an accomplished statesman and negotiator, and an active Mason for much of his life. In 1907, during his tenure as District Grand Master of India, Kitchener played a role in a singular Masonic event: the raising of the Emir of Afghanistan. This event showed the universality and bonds of Masonry, and also directly impacted history.

Kitchener lived from 1850 until his death at sea in June 1916. He entered the British Army in the 1870s, and rose through the ranks to the grade of Field Marshal in 1910.

As a young lieutenant he mapped Palestine and Cyprus; his maps of that island are still in use today. Kitchener fought several campaigns in Egypt, a place he regarded as his “spiritual home.” In 1898 Kitchener destroyed Dervish forces at the Battle of Omdurman in the Sudan, and was created Earl of Khartoum. He was one of the top British commanders during the Boer War in South Africa, and then became Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from 1902-1909. From 1914 to 1916 he was Secretary of State for War in Britain, and the “Kitchener Armies” that he recruited played a key role in winning the First World War. Kitchener was also a committed Mason. Raised in 1883 in Cairo, he was active in the Craft wherever he was stationed. He founded three lodges (Drury Lane Lodge No.2127 in England; Fatieh Lodge in Cairo; and Kitchener Lodge NO.2998 in Simla, India), and served as Worshipful Master of Nubia Mark Lodge in 1898. He was also District Grand Master of Egypt and the Sudan in 1899, and later District Grand Master of India.

As Commander in Chief of the Indian Army, Kitchener had to train and equip a mixed English, Hindu, and Muslim force to defend an area that encompassed modem-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Two main threats The Voice of Freemasonry

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caused him concern: the possibility of a Russian invasion from the north, and incursions from Afghanistan to the west. For years British authorities had tried to make peace with the Afghans, or keep the threat in check, with no lasting success. Several British expeditions across the Khyber Pass (on the border) came to grief in the 1880s and 1890s.

In 1906 the Emir of Afghanistan, Habibullah Khan, received an invitation to visit India and establish relations with his Indian neighbors. Habibullah’s deputies greeted this proposal with suspicion, and advised him not to go; they felt that his absence would give an opportunity for unrest at home, and as an associate put it, “that nothing but evil could come of his association with foreign infidels.”

The Emir overruled them, and crossed the Indian border on 2 January 1907. This was the first time the 34 year-old Emir had left his country.

Lieutenant Colonel Sir Henry McMahon (also a Mason and a member of Kitchener’s staff) was appointed liaison to the Emir’s party, and he left an outstanding account of the visit. The group traveled around India, and was received with the courtesy due a visiting head of state.

Habibullah was suitably impressed, and struck McMahon with his “superior intellect.”

Not long into the visit, the Emir pulled McMahon aside and asked to become a Freemason. He later explained to Sir Henry that “[the Emir] had met good men who were Masons; that he knew Freemasonry was a good thing and he wanted to enter it.” McMahon was “astonished” at this request, “but not knowing his motives I gave him no encouragement. [The Emir] returned to the subject on several occasions without success and it was not until the 22d January that I realized how very much he was in earnest.” Habibullah had one condition: it should be done in such a way that no one in his party would know what was happening.

McMahon passed on this request to Kitchener, who moved quickly. Because of the travel schedule, only one evening could be set aside for this mission, which meant

LORD KITCHENER, AFGHANISTAN, AND FREEMASONRY

the Emir would have to be entered, passed, and raised all in the same night. The Lodge selected for this work was Concordia No. 3102 in Calcutta; that lodge’s membership was restricted to senior British government and military officials. After consultation, 2 February 1907 was settled upon as the night to perform the work.

In the meantime, Kitchener contacted the Duke of Connaught, Grand Master of the United Grand Lodges of England (under whose charter all Lodges in India were empowered) about the necessary dispensations.

Connaught happened to be in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and immediately telegraphed back, “approve of the Emir receiving three degrees and getting dispensation.

Welcome him to the Craft in my name.”

The evening of 2 February Kitchener planned a formal dinner for the Emir and his party; at the last minute Habibullah declared that he would render Kitchener the special honor of dining without staff. McMahon acted as interpreter, and they had a pleasant meal. Kitchener, McMahon, and the Emir then drove over to the lodge, arriving at 9:30.

At 9:45 Lodge opened and Lane Anderson, District Deputy Grand Master of Bengal, took the East. Kitchener presented the Emir’s petition, and it was unanimously accepted and approved. The candidate then came forth, and received the three degrees in due form that evening.

Kitchener personally helped with portions of the 1 st and 3d degrees.

Two things stood out on this unusual night. To save time, the lodge skipped the perambulations of the 1st and 2d degrees. McMahon noted the Emir’s unwillingness to take part in any portion of the ceremony until he clearly understood its nature, and as his knowledge of the English language was very imperfect it was necessary to explain everything to him in his own language — Persian. After the last degree, the Emir was welcomed to the Craft.

Habibullah presented the lodge with a silver cup as a token of thanks.

The veil of secrecy remained over the proceedings until some time after the Emir’s return to Afghanistan. When some of his deputies tried to cause trouble over his membership, Habibullah called them together and admitted his pride in being a Mason, and threatened anyone who criticized this with his life. The Emir did not try to establish Freemasonry in Afghanistan, in deference to the attitude of his subordinates.

The events of 2 February 1907 left a deep impression on all who witnessed it. McMahon summed up the evening’s consequences: “that the Amir [sic] was profoundly impressed by Freemasonry became very evident to me from the frequency with which, whenever he and I were alone together, he kept harking back to our Masonic evening at Calcutta — to the various portions of the ceremony and to what had been therein communicated to him. Friendly and cordial as became his feeling towards British people during his intercourse with them, a feeling which grew deeper and stronger each day of his stay in India, I regard it of far less importance than the sense of confidence and trust in us that gradually grew up in his mind and which he carried away with him to Afghanistan.

I am convinced that his experience of Freemasonry with us played no small part in creating that trust and in preserving it unweakened [sic] through the years to come.

Among his last words on leaving India was the expression of a solemn vow to prove a faithful friend of England as long as England kept faith with him. How loyally he kept his word was proved throughout the Great War of 191418, when time after time missions were sent to Kabul from Turkey and Germany offering the Amir alluring temptations of territory and power if he would only take their (the winning) side against us in the war. Not only did he hold out loyally against temptation but, thanks to his firm hand on his country and the border tribes, our North West Indian frontier enjoyed complete peace throughout the war; so much so that England was able to denude India of British and Indian forces and to send them to other fields of war.

The value of this to us was almost incalculable, as alas was soon proved when, within a few weeks of the end of the Great War, a loyal friend and ally was struck down by the hand of an assassin; the firm hand that kept peace on the frontier was removed; Afghanistan turned against the British and troops were sent rushing back in great strength to India. If this had been necessary during the war, the history of that war might have been changed… it is pleasant to think that Freemasonry played its part in creating and cementing the friendship that led to that result.

Thanks to connections forged through Masonry, the Afghan frontier remained quiet during the First World War, thereby enabling the engagement of the Indian Army in Persia, Palestine, and the Western Front.

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THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY

The American Colonization Society Stewart W. Miner, PGM

A

s the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in 1826 was wending its way to a conclusion, Brother Burch (presumably Samuel Burch of Federal Lodge No. 1) sought and received permission to address the Grand Lodge.

Speaking of the moral obligations of Americans, and particularly of American Masons, he then moved that the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia recommend that the several lodges under its jurisdiction contribute, to the degree they were able, to the ongoing effort of the American Colonization Society (ASC).

In a second motion he also moved that the Grand Lodge respectfully recommend similar consideration “to her sister Grand Lodges of the United States.”

Today, many Masons, and perhaps most of the Masons in this jurisdiction, are totally unaware, unless they be serious students of American history, of the ASC. But it was well known, by Masons and non-Masons alike, in the decades leading to the War Between the States.

The organization evolved out of a meeting of a group of exclusively white, upper-class males, including James Monroe, Bushrod Washington, Andrew Jackson, Francis Scott Key, and Daniel Webster, held on December 21, 1816 at the Davis Hotel in Washington, D.C., with Henry Clay presiding.

The purpose of the proposed organization was to send free African-Americans to settle in Africa, apparently as an alternative to emancipation in the United States. In 1822 the society established a colony on the west coast of Africa that became, in 1847, the independent nation of Liberia.

For many years the ACS tried to involve the U.S. Congress in the appropriation of funds for the project.

That effort, despite the support of Henry Clay, was unsuccessful. The society did, however, succeed in obtaining the support, at one time or another, of a number of states, including Virginia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Maryland.

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By the 1840s the colony began to face political threats, chiefly from Britain, because it was neither a sovereign power nor a bona fide colony of any sovereign nation. In 1846 the decision was made to proclaim the colony’s independence, and in 1847 it became the independent nation of Liberia. By 1867 more than 13,000 emigrants had been sent there.

While the effort ultimately achieved success, the attainment of the ASC objective was difficult, primarily because both the white and the black populations of America were divided on the issue. Inevitably the process became a bone of contention in which the work of the society was harshly attacked from many quarters — by abolitionists, slave holders, and the free Blacks.

Nevertheless the effort was successful in the long run, and the ACS continued its work in America until 1964, when it was dissolved and its records donated to the Library of Congress.

In his moving appeal to the Grand Lodge Brother Burch said, in part, that “the effort ought to receive the support of every institution, but more particularly of one based upon Charity and Love... .” He concluded by noting that “if the Masons of America shall lend their countenance and assistance to this great national, humane and enlightened measure, the objects and ends of that association will have been accomplished.”

Brother Burch’s appeal, unfortunately, was more dramatic than successful, for it was ordered, in due course, to “lie on the table.” Diligent search of the records has thus far not indicated that any further action was taken by Grand Lodge on the matter. It may be, however, that individuals, supported the cause on their own.

One can not help but speculate, almost 200 years after the fact, on how the course of history might have been impacted, had this Grand Lodge, and Masons generally, taken a definitive stand on the resolutions as presented.

Painting by Peter Waddell 2005 Copyright © Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia

AN AUSPICIOUS DAY

An Auspicious Day Preparing to lay the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol on September 18, 1793, George Washington is shown in full Masonic regalia accompanied by one of his favorite dogs, “Duchess.”

In addition to illustrating the historical importance of George Washington’s action, the painting is filled with Masonic symbols and tools making it look like a “tracing board” that can be used for Masonic education. Have fun identifying them all!

Prints, 18”x20", regular edition: $25.00; limited signed edition: $100.00; and note cards (package of 10): $10.00, post paid, are now available. To place your order please send checks or money order to the Grand Secretary’s office, payable to the Masonic Foundation of D.C. Alternatively you may submit payment by credit card (Master Card or VISA). For more information call (202) 686-1811.

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Past Grand Masters Seated (L to R): Raymond F. McMullen (1988); Theodore M. Kahn (1985); Stewart W. Miner (1974); Donald L. Mallorey (1983); Richard E. Fletcher (1983); William C. Miskovic (1986).

Second Row (L to R): Gordon Lee Ferguson (2004); Robert H. Starr (2002); Grant R. Berning (2001); Mansour Hatefi (2000); Jules S. Tepper (2003).

Third Row (L to R): Robert Heyat (2001); William R. Chaney (1996); George R. Adams (1993); Robert F. Drechsler (1997); Charles S. Iverson (1990).

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

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