The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 24 No. 2

Volume 24, Number 2

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

MAKING MASONS AT SIGHT, HONORING SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Voice of Freemasonry Volume 24, Number 2, 2007 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master MANAGING EDITOR Mansour Hatefi, PGM Grand Secretary

MAKING MASONS HONORING

AT SIGHT, SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

On Wednesday, April 4, 2007, John Kriesel, a 25 year old Minnesota National Guard Soldier, now a patient

The Voice of Freemasonry is an official publication of

at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, was made a

the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons

Mason at Sight by the Grand Lodge of the District of

(F.A.A.M.) of the District of Columbia. Unless otherwise

Columbia.

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

Sgt. John Kriesel, who lost both legs and suffered other injuries in a roadside explosion in Operation Iraqi

Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks only through the

Freedom, was presented with the Purple Heart by Pres-

Grand Master and the Executive Board and, when

ident George W. Bush at Walter Reed AMC on

attested to as official, in writing, by the Grand Secretary.

December 22, 2006.

The editorial staff invites contributions in the form of informative articles, reports, news and other timely

The history of Making Masons at Sight in the Grand

information (of about 500 to 1000 words in length) that

Lodge of the District of Columbia, and Brother

broadly relate to Masonic law, lore, customs, history,

Kriesel’s own story are featured in this issue of the

symbolism, philosophy, responsibility of membership,

Voice of Freemasonry.

etiquette, current events, and/or general public interest. When possible, photographs that illustrate these informative articles should accompany the submission.

Pieces submitted should be typed, double-spaced and preferably accompanied by a computer disk in a neutral PC format or via e-mail to: grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org

Articles are subject to editing and, when published, become the property of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of

Table of Contents

Page

Cover Notes ........................................................................................................2 Grand Master’s Message .....................................................................................3

the District of Columbia. No compensation is allowed

Grand Lodge ‘Я ’ Us ............................................................................................5

for any articles, photographs, or other materials sub-

Honoring Service and Sacrifice ............................................................................6

mitted for publication.

Making Masons at Sight ......................................................................................8

Permission to reprint articles will be granted upon

Investing in the Craft..........................................................................................12

written request to the Editor from recognized Masonic

The Free-Mason’s Mystical Journey....................................................................16

publications and others. When reprinted, articles should note: “Reprinted with permission of the Voice of

Freemasonry: Fraternal Organization or Fraternal Initiatic Society? .....................19 Life – and Death – after Harold...........................................................................21

Freemasonry in the Nation’s Capital, (month), (year).”

On Our Knees: Thoughts on Masonic Prayer .....................................................23 Please direct all correspondence to:

To Create a Legacy............................................................................................24

Managing Editor: The Voice of Freemasonry

The One Year Challenge ....................................................................................26

5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W.

Coming Events ..................................................................................................26

Washington, DC 20016-2524

Masonic Research Awards Program ...................................................................27 Photo credits: All photographs in this issue, unless otherwise indicated, were provided by the Grand Lodge photographer, Brother Sviatoslav V. Voloshin.

The Voice of Freemasonry

2

GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Grand Master’s Message I

nvesting in the Craft is the main theme of our Masonic year in 2007 and, at the time of writing this message, we are now more than three months into the year. During the past three months, I have visited almost all our lodges, participated in major Masonic events and conferences, and initiated new projects. It has been my pledge to initiate such programs and projects that will help and strengthen our lodges while promoting our Grand Lodge and Fraternity in Washington DC.

Grand Lecturer, Deputy and Assistant Grand Lecturer to initiate Lodges of Instruction and to assist our lodges in rehearsals and conferral of Masonic Degrees, a task that they have taken to heart and are performing admirably.

excellent Ritual work, Masonic education and interesting programs, which has attracted a notable number of quality candidates. These lodges are doing their own degree work and the candidates go through the degrees in the environment of their own lodge and among their own lodge Brethren. It was due to the overwhelming desire of our Brethren, that I decided to do away with mass conferral of Masonic Degrees, such as the so called Grand Master’s Class and leave the job of making Masons to our constituent lodges, where it belongs, enabling our lodges, individually, or working together, to initiate, pass and raise qualified candidates in an orderly manner. And to raise the level of ritual proficiency in our lodges, I have instructed the

Our charity and outreach projects play a very important role in enhancing our image and promoting our Fraternity. We have chosen these projects with great care to be effective and worthy of our efforts. However, we can only be successful if there is a positive response and strong participation by our lodges. It is only by real dynamic partnership between the leadership at the Grand Lodge and in our lodges that we may hope to succeed in advancing our ideals, and achieving our goals.

To complement this change of direction, and to strengthen the organization and operation of our lodges, we organized Craft Seminars for each category of officer in the lodge, with expert presenters and panelists, to introduce and explain the various responsibilities During my attendance at the Grand and duties assigned to each officer.

Masters’ Conference in North AmerThis is a new experiment and I am ica, held in February in Portland, confident that it will continue with Oregon, I observed that the main much improvement in the future. It theme and attention of the confermust be said here that we can only ence and our sister jurisdictions has succeed in our Masonic work if we shifted from concern about the overhave a real and deep understanding all membership decline to issues of Masonic teachings and the ideals dealing with Masonic education, Most Worshipful Brother behind the ritual and its symbolism. lodge finances, ritual proficiency, Robert B. Heyat Through the programs of Pythagoras community outreach and overall relevancy of Freemasonry and its influence in shaping our Lodge of Research and working with a number of other lodges, a pool of educational and inspiring presenters communities.

During visitations in this jurisdiction, I have noticed a is being created to enhance the current positive trend great deal of change in a number of our lodges with and benefit our lodges and our membership.

We should not be concerned so much with the number of candidates we bring in to our lodges, but with their quality and how we are going to educate and inspire them to become our future leaders. A few motivated, continued on page 4 The Voice of Freemasonry

3

GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Grand Master’s Message continued from page 3

dedicated and dynamic leaders can change the future of our institution for the better. We are neither a social nor merely a charity organization. Our work as a society of good men and real builders, with its Masonic teachings, fraternal character and charitable foundation, has a much greater mission, based on our belief and high

ideals; it is to influence our communities and to bring about changes necessary for the betterment of the human conditions of our fellow men. I am honored and privileged to share this with you believing that together we will succeed. ■

Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master

A History of Freemasons National Trail and the Masonic United States A History of Freemasons and the United States in Seven Miles in Seven Miles (with a four mile option) (with a four mile option) International Volksmarch in Washington, DC

Saturday, 9 June 2007 For more information visit http://masonictrail.org/ Presented by The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia and US FreedomWalk Festival Club, Inc., American Volkssport Association The Voice of Freemasonry

4

GRAND LODGE ‘R’ US

Grand Lodge ‘R’ Us Mansour Hatefi,

O

n the eve of the 2007 Semi-Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, once again the question is asked: Who or What is “Grand Lodge?” This issue is not peculiar to our jurisdiction since it frequently comes up in other jurisdictions as well, and from time to time finds its way to their official publications.

Most of us have heard it, at one time or another, that this or that is being decided by the Grand Lodge, the implication being that some nameless persons, “higher up”, will make all the decisions without regard to the wishes of the grass roots. Somehow we have been persuaded to think that THEY are the Grand Lodge and do it all, while, WE are powerless.

Nothing is further away from the truth. Grand Lodge is not THEY ; it is WE , all of us, every one of us. Certainly administrative work is being done throughout the year, such as by the Grand Lodge Office staff, numerous committees and certain officers, but all have to report to the general assembly where tentative decisions must be ratified to become valid. And since our laws are made and amended only at Grand Lodge Communications, it behooves us to be there, to attend and offer our input.

Now, it is true that the constitution of most Grand Lodges defines the membership in the Grand Lodge by naming those who are qualified to sit in the Grand Communications and are eligible to participate in the deliberations and cast their ballots. According to Sec. 7 of our Constitution, the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia consists of the elective and appointive Grand Officers, Past Grand Officers, Masters, Wardens, or their proxies, and Past Masters of the constituent Lodges, who are all, with some exceptions, eligible to vote.

However, attendance at Grand Communications, in practice, is by no means limited to those who are eligible to vote, since many of the holders of above mentioned titles have no vote and in spite of the fact that according to Sec. 6. of the Constitution, “No one who is not a member of the Grand Lodge shall be admitted to its communications except by permission

PGM, Grand Secretary

of the Grand Master or Grand Lodge.”, traditionally all Master Masons in good standing have been deemed fit to be present at the communications, have been cheerfully permitted to attend these sessions, in order to get acquainted with the workings of the Grand Lodge in action, and enjoy the close working relationship, harmony and fellowship, which should be the ultimate goal of all such assemblies.

It must therefore be emphasized that contrary to what some here or elsewhere may think, the Grand Master and the Grand Line officers do not comprise the Grand Lodge by themselves, but rather the membership, either directly or through their representatives are the ones who, in effect, are the Grand Lodge, and determine the path our Fraternity should take. The future of

our Grand Lodge, indeed Freemasonry,

will take shape from the choices WE make, both as individuals and as Grand Lodge, and WE are responsible for the consequences of those choices. These choices should be based on ethical and moral values and principles taught in this great Fraternity of ours.

Participating in the Grand Lodge communications, where important issues are discussed, major decisions affecting the future of the Grand Lodge and its constituent lodges are made, and Grand Master and his Cabinet is elected, is not only a high privilege, but the duty of the senior officers of each and every lodge. As such we should realize the opportunities which are ours, and make our wishes and opinions known in the manner provided in our Constitution.

The Grand Lodge Communications are also of great importance to our Fraternity. They provide us the forum to discuss issues, not only of significance to us but also matters of consequence well beyond our borders, thereby influencing Freemasonry around the world. It has been said that anything that affects Masonry anywhere, affects Masonry everywhere. Therefore, WE all should participate; get involved and share in the responsibility of making wise decisions for the good of the Craft. See you there! ■ The Voice of Freemasonry

5

HONORING SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

Honoring Service and Sacrifice D

uring the sideline visitations and discussions in the Conference of Grand Masters in North America, in Portland, Oregon, February 2007, MW Steven R. Johnson, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota, requested permission from MW Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, to make a Minnesota resident, a patient in Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. a Mason at Sight.

This request received a warm and supportive response and a date and time was set for this occasion. The candidate, John Kriesel, a Minnesota National Guard Soldier who had been seriously injured in a Fallujah blast in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was to be made a Mason at Sight and, to this end, the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Secretary and a number of other Grand Lodge officers from Minnesota, braving one of the late winter storms in our area, flew in to Washington, and gathered in a room designated for the purpose of making a Mason at Sight at Walter Reed AMC. The Grand Master of Masons in the District of Columbia, accompanied by a number of his Grand Line officers, was also in attendance to offer support.

But it was not to be! Sgt. Kriesel was taken in for emergency procedures and as such was not able to attend the ceremony, following which it was decided that the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia will have the privilege of conferring this honor on the young soldier as a courtesy for the Grand Lodge of Minnesota.

And so it was that on Wednesday, April 4, 2007 MW Robert Heyat, Grand Master, together with RW Akram R. Elias, Deputy Grand Master, in a very impressive ceremony made Sgt. John Kriesel, now Brother John, a Mason at Sight. Due to space limitations, only a small team of Grand Lodge officers accompanied the Grand Master: RW Mansour Hatefi, P.G.M., Grand Secretary, RW Robert F. Drechsler, P.G.M., Grand Treasurer, RW Sheldon I. Rappe-

The Voice of Freemasonry

6

Walter R. Hoenes,

PM

port, Grand Lecturer, WB Gerhard Meinzer, Grand Tiler, WB Sissay Awoke, Grand Lodge Physician, and Brother Sviatoslav V. Voloshin, Grand Lodge Photographer. MW Richard E. Fletcher, PGM and Executive Secretary of Masonic Service Association of North America, who had been instrumental in making all this possible, was also present.

The ceremony ended on a high note when Grand Master Johnson, who had been listening to the proceeding all along via a telephone hook up, congratulated the newly made Master Mason and encouraged him to affiliate with a local lodge of his choice at his earliest convenience.

The Grand Master and the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia is pleased and honored to have participated in this special occasion. We thank the Grand Lodge of Minnesota for the opportunity and extend our best wishes to Brother Kriesel and his family.

Brother John Kriesel in a letter to MW Heyat, Grand Master and in response to a request for his biographical information writes:

“Greetings Most Worshipful Grand Master, I want to thank you again for the wonderful ceremony on Wednesday evening. Here is my biography which includes the story of the blast that took my legs.

For all of you that don't know me, my name is John Kriesel and I am a 25 year old National Guardsman (and now a Master Mason). I am also a husband and a father. Since September 2003 I have been on an active duty assignment all but 54 weeks. My first deployment was to Kosovo which lasted 12 months. The second deployment was in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom which began October 1, 2005. I was 15 months into the 18 month deployment (now 22 months with the extension under President Bush's new plan) when I was seriously wounded in action.

During the recovery process, I had plenty of time to gain perspective. My father-in-law Worshipful Brother Harold

HONORING SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

Glazebrook has been a Mason for almost 20 years and has been a positive influence. So the seed was planted. Harold is a very good man and I knew that he was a Mason, although I never asked about it (even though I thought about it) until a couple of months ago. The incident that I am about to describe has changed mine and many other lives forever, but I have to try to find the positive in all things....good or bad. Becoming a Mason is one of the positive things that I've taken from being here. I truly miss the brotherhood of being with my fellow soldiers but have now found that same fraternal feeling among my brother Masons.

not changed. I still support the war. I am still proud to have served with the members of Bravo Company and most of all 1st Platoon, 2nd Squad, my brothers with whom I will share a lifelong bond. There are people here at Walter Reed AMC that have changed their opinion and compromised their values because of their injuries, but the fact is we all serve in a volunteer army despite anyone's reason for joining. I joined in October of 1998 at age 17 for no other reason than wanting to serve my country. After taking my oath of enlistment I received only a t-shirt that simply stated "it all starts with attitude," which I firmly believe.

December 2, 2006 was like any other day. While on a routine patrol we received a change of mission from headquarters and were ordered to roll to another area. There was an M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle containing a crew of three leading our two vehicle convoy. Our up-armored humvee • SGT. JOHN KRIESEL, MASTER MASON was at full capacity with four passengers and one gunner; I was riding shotgun as vehicle commander. We were driving down the dirt road like any other day when everything went black. I remember hearing a muffled noise similar to the sound one hears when cannon-balling into a swimming pool. When I opened my eyes I saw what used to be our humvee not far in front of me, parts of the vehicle were everywhere. I heard screaming and yelling and then looked down at where my legs used to be. My left leg was blown off above my knee and all I could see of my right leg was hamburger from my knee down. I was covered in blood. At that point I yelled for tourniquets not even realizing they had already been applied. I had them tighten the right tourniquet and then closed my eyes and began to pray. For any of you wondering, your life really does flash before your eyes. As I was being loaded onto a stretcher for transport I told one of my buddies to tell my wife I loved her. Although I never gave up my fight to live, I didn't think I was going to make it. It is only through a miracle from God that I am here to tell this story and am able to tell my wife I love her myself.

I find myself in a circumstance right now that many people would rather be dead than be in. I am thankful to have lived through such a horrific event yet sorrowful that two of my best friends did not. Although I have lost both of my legs and am undergoing extensive rehabilitation to become proficient with prosthetics I will eventually be able to live a mostly "normal" life. I keep a positive attitude and although I know my life will never be exactly the same I draw strength from the fact that I have a wonderful wife, two wonderful little boys, and a good life waiting for me back in Minnesota. That is what is going to get me through this, a great family and a positive attitude. Just like the t-shirt reads, it all starts with attitude.

I embrace the challenges that lie ahead. While some may dread physical therapy, I enjoy it and now do two sessions per day; it is my vehicle out of this place. I envision the day I can walk through the door of my new home and continue my life as a husband and father (and now a Mason) as if I never left.”

– Brother John Kriesel The Grand Master and the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia are pleased and honored to have participated in this special occasion. We thank the Grand Lodge of Minnesota for the opportunity and extend our best wishes to Brother Kriesel and his family. ■

My thoughts and feelings about being in the military have The Voice of Freemasonry

7

MAKING MASONS AT SIGHT

Making Masons at Sight Stewart Miner, PGM, Grand Historian

I

n the 196-year history of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, only 16 men have become Masons at Sight. The minute size of this special group generates a number of questions. For example: How do Masons at Sight differ from other Masons in the jurisdiction? Who are the Masons that comprise this group? Was their unique entrance essential? Why? These questions underscore the necessity for understanding the process of making a Mason at Sight. It is one by which certain men, who do not personally seek entrance to the • ADMIRAL WINFIELD SCOTT SCHLEY Craft, are invited to enter Masonry by a Grand Master, who in the absence of written authority, uses his “inherent powers” to solicit and make Masons, relying on other than constitutionally prescribed methods.

In the process of making a Mason at Sight the Grand Master may use his “inherent” powers to modify the conferral of the degrees to suit situations at hand. On occasion the candidate may be treated exactly like any normal candidate for the degrees. At other times, however, the Grand Master may deem it expedient to condense, and in certain instances, to eliminate parts of the prescribed work.

In consequence of his receiving the degrees by the volition of the Grand Master and not by the will of a lodge, the Mason at Sight is set apart from other Masons. When the ceremony is concluded he is, without question, a Mason in every sense of the word. But in contrast to those who take the degrees in the customary manner, he is unaffiliated and to become a lodge member he must, if that be his desire, apply to some lodge for membership.

For most of the 19th century sentiment in opposition to making Masons at Sight prevailed in many of the Grand Lodges of the United States, a sentiment that was well expressed in 1891 by the Chairman of the

The Voice of Freemasonry

8

Foreign Correspondence Committee in the Grand Lodge of D.C., Grand Secretary William R. Singleton.

In his report to the Grand Lodge in that year he remarked that:

Very much has been written upon the subject of “Making Masons at Sight” in the United States, and a large number of distinguished writers, Grand Masters and chairmen of Committees on Correspondence, yet contend that Grand Masters have the prerogative (inherent) to make Masons at sight. We have always denied that there never was such an inherent right. The only right must be from the constitutional provision by each Grand Lodge allowing the Grand Master this privilege.

Nevertheless, the winds of change were in the air and on October 21st, 1899, Grand Master John H. Small made Admiral Winfield Scott Schley the first Mason at Sight in the Grand Lodge of D.C. Small said he did so because he understood that the Admiral was under orders to proceed to sea and take command of the South Atlantic Squadron. The membership records of the Grand Lodge suggest that the Admiral did not seek membership in the lodge that conferred • HONORABLE JESSE H. JONES the degrees on him (Benjamin B. French No. 15) or in any other lodge in the jurisdiction.

Forty-two years were to elapse before the next conferral of the degrees at sight were to be conferred by Grand Master Ara Daniels, on December 16, 1941, in the auditorium of the Scottish Rite Temple at 2800 16th Street, N.W. The honorees, on this occasion, were the Honorable Jesse H. Jones, Secretary of Commerce and Federal Loan Agency Administrator, and General George C. Marshall, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. The former was raised by Past

MAKING MASONS AT SIGHT

Grand Master Charles E. Baldwin and the latter by Grand Master Daniels. Carl Claudy, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association, afterwards wrote of this event as follows: “Perhaps never before has so unique a ceremony been conducted; the Chief of Staff of the Army and a most important government official being both made Masons at Sight in the Capital City of a nation engaged in war.”

Sight” manner, he was, in fact, a petitioner of Warren G. Harding Lodge No. 39, in which Lodge he became a member. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Admiral Burke remarked that his experience of this day made him appreciate that Masonry was attractive because of its procedures, its history, the things that it teaches, the things that its adherents believe, and the things that Masons stand for.

He concluded his remarks by thanking the Grand Master “for letting me join so many of my old friends.”

“Freemasonry cuts across all strata of life, regardless of wealth or social standing,

to give everyone a chance

Present on this occasion, in addition to the officers and members of all the D.C. Masonic bodies, Grand and Subordinate, were the Grand – Walter Masters or representatives of 17 other Grand Lodges, in town for the Grand Lodge session to be convened the next day; the Sovereign Grand Commanders of both the Northern and Southern Jurisdictions of the Scottish Rite; the Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar; a Justice of the Supreme Court, an Ambassador, and a number of Congressmen and Senators. The ceremony was indeed a great tribute to Masonry at a time when the nation was preoccupied with war.

to excel and to reach his

own level of achievement.”

The next Grand Master to use his authority to make a Mason at Sight was Grand Master Milton D. Korman, who like Grand Master Daniels, elected to do so on December 16, 1969, on the day preceding the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. At that time he made Admiral Arleigh A. Burke, USN, a Mason at Sight in the presence of a host of Grand Masters in town for the Grand Lodge session on the next day; the Sovereign Grand commander of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite; the Executive • GENERAL GEORGE C. MARSHALL Secretary of the Masonic Service Association; and a host of high ranking officers of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Coast Guard.

This ceremony was unique in that while the degrees had been conferred on Admiral Burke in the “at

Six years later Grand Master William E. Eccleston decided to make Admiral John S. McCain, former Chief of Naval Operations in the South Pacific, a Mason at Sight. Admiral McCain, incidentally, was the father of the now U.S. Senator for Arizona, John McCain. Grand Master Eccleston followed the patterns set by Grand Masters Daniels and Korman in that he convened an occasional communication just prior to the convening of the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. This timing again proved • ADMIRAL ARLEIGH A. BURKE rewarding for the ceremony was witnessed by a number of Grand Masters of other Grand Lodges, here for the Grand Lodge Communication, and by an impressive group of starlevel officers of the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps.

Joseph Stewart

Like Admiral Burke, who was present on this occasion, Admiral McCain had previously petitioned a lodge for the degrees. On being brought to light he was thus automatically a member of St. John’s Lodge No. 11, in which he had deposited his petition. Admiral McCain proved to be an active member, and for the rest of his life he made himself available for such services as he could render, primarily by speaking for the Craft and of his belief in

The Voice of Freemasonry

9

MAKING MASONS AT SIGHT

the virtues therein taught.

Fifteen years later, on June 9, 1990, Grand Master Charles S. Iversen made Stephen Joel Trachtenberg, President of George Washington University, and Robert S. Carter, a public relations executive, Masons at Sight in the Scottish Rite Temple at 2800 16th Street, N.W. Both had previous petitioned Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15 for the degrees, and both became members of that lodge upon the conclusion of the ceremony.

Brother Iversen reported that during the ceremonies for Brothers Trachtenberg and Carter, “the allegorical story portrayed in the second section of the Third Degree was narrated by me; and all lectures, excepting the ‘G’ lecture, and all charges were omitted.” It is interesting to note that both Trachtenberg and Carter received, at the • ADMIRAL JOHN S. MCCAIN hands of the Sovereign Grand Commander, the Scottish Rite degrees through the 32º in an at-sight ceremony later in the year.

The following year, on March 2, 1991, Grand Master Darwin Brock made a handicapped patient resident in the nursing home of the Veterans Administration Hospital in Washington, D.C. a Mason at Sight. The Nathan honoree, Golden, when he was a young man, had petitioned for the degrees, but before his application could be processed, he had suffered an amputation of a leg in Walter Reed Military Hospital.

The rules prevailing at • WALTER JOSEPH STEWART that time precluded consideration of his petition.

Learning that Masonry had modified its stance on the so-called “perfect man” rule, Golden asked, at age 95, if it would be possible for him to now become a Mason. In response, Grand Master Brock conferred the degrees at sight on him in Osiris-Pentalpha Lodge, where he thereafter placed his membership.

Brother Golden was a lawyer, and at the time of his retirement from government, he was the Director SciThe Voice of Freemasonry

10

entific, Photographic, and Business Equipment Division of the Business and Defense Services Administration.

The next year Grand Master Jerold J. Samet convened the Grand Lodge in the Caucus Room of the Cannon Office Building at the U.S. Capitol to George W. make White, the Architect of the Capitol, a Mason at Sight. On this auspicious occasion the candidate was conducted by Donnald Anderson, Clerk of • STEPHEN JOEL TRACHTENBERG the House of Representatives, and he was obligated in the Master Mason Degree by George R. Adams, then Deputy Grand Master. This conferral was unusual not only in terms of its setting, but also in that an Occasional Lodge of the Grand Lodge and a Special communication of Federal Lodge No. 1, where Brother White placed his membership, were opened and closed concurrently by the Grand Master.

Grand Master George R. Adams, in turn, on September 8, began a Mason-at-Sight ceremony that was not to be • GEORGE W. WHITE concluded until September 18th. Further, the ceremony was begun in the lodge room at Naval Lodge Hall and concluded in Caucus Room SR-325 of the Russell Senate Office Building with the raising of the honoree, Walter Joseph Stewart, Secretary of the U.S. Senate.

That event took place in the morning, at 9:00 a.m., prior to the bicentennial commemoration of the laying of the cornerstone of the Capitol later in the day.

At the conclusion of the conferral of the Master Mason Degree Brother Stewart, who became a member of Naval Lodge No. 1, thanked the Grand Master, the assembled throng of visiting Grand Masters present, and his many Congressional colleagues present to witness this great moment in his life. At that time he briefed the assemblage on the evolution of the Capitol and concluded his remarks with these words:

I have traveled to almost every country in the world

MAKING MASONS AT SIGHT

over the past ten years on official and unofficial business. You hear a lot of people complain about America but no one wants to leave it and everyone wants to come here. Why? Because this is a place that everybody can approach as an immigrant, from any station in life, and have the opportunity to advance. This is not unlike this organization, Freemasonry, which cuts across all strata of life, regardless of wealth or social standing, to give everyone a chance to excel and to reach his own level of achievement. I thank you again for coming here to take part in the ceremonies of this day.

The following year, on May 26, 1984, the presiding Grand Master, William T. Jenkins, used his prerogatives to make a Mason at Sight under still different circumstances. The honoree was a soldier, Mark A. Kosanko, who was passing through Washington on a change of assignment. It seems that the Grand Lodge had been unable to arrange for the conferral of the Master Mason Degree on Brother Kosanko during his now concluded tour of duty in the Philippines. Believing that the conferral had been delayed long enough, Grand Master made Brother Kosanko a Mason at Sight and sent him on his way to his new station in Germany as a member of La FayetteDupont Lodge No. 19.

The last instance of making Masons at Sight in this Grand Lodge occurred on October 28, 2001, under the authority of Grand Master Grant R. Berning. At that time he made five Masons at Sight in the same communication. Those so honored were Alan M. Hantman, Architect of the U.S. Capitol; Dr. J.P. London, Chairman of the Board and CEO of CACI International Incorporated; John W. Springer, Jr., Managing Partner, Capital Asset Management Group; the Honorable Ronald D. Schiff, Associate Justice, 7th Circuit in Maryland; and Tony Russo, President and CEO of InPhonic Incorporated.

• MASON AT SIGHT CEREMONY IN 2001

A special feature of this conferral was the summarization of the lessons of the degrees by the recitation of the catechisms for the first and second degrees by Brother Kurt Shlagel of Anacostia Lodge No. 21, who was questioned by Past Grand Master Robert F. Drechsler. In lieu of the lecture normally given in the Master Mason Degree, Brother Sheldon I. Rappeport, Deputy Grand Lecturer, explained in his own words the structure and philosophy of that degree.

Brother Hantman became a member of Federal Lodge No. 1; Brothers London and Springer of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15; and Brother Russo of Hiram Takoma Lodge No. 10. Thus far Brother Schiff remains unassociated with a lodge in the District of Columbia.

In sum it is clear that when viewed from the standpoint of the totality of the history of this Grand Lodge, the use of the Mason at Sight ceremony has been limited. It was not employed until 1899, and from 1899 until 1989, it was used on only five occasions.

From 1990 until 2001, it was used on six occasions to bring 11 distinguished men into the light of Masonry in ceremonies which were adapted to place and hour as necessary. On review it seems clear that in almost every instance the ceremony, as it evolved, has proven to be a unique application of the “inherent power” of reigning Grand Masters. ■

The Voice of Freemasonry

11

INVESTING IN THE CRAFT

Investing in the Craft TRAINING SEMINARS FOR ALL LODGE OFFICERS Kwame Acquaah,

Senior Grand Warden

The ancient Landmarks of the order, entrusted to your care, you are carefully to preserve; and never suffer them to be infringed, or countenance a deviation from the established usages and customs of the Fraternity.

M

asons agree that the survival of our Fraternity depends on our readiness, willingness and ability to live according to our true purposes. To satisfy this challenge, our Lodges have to commit to operate in accordance with the basic principles, traditions, customs and usages handed down from our ancestors. All the socalled new ideas about making Masonry popular through marketing gimmicks will not succeed, if we are unable to seriously abide by our basic values. Lodges that grow and succeed do so because they pay attention to the basic requirements of the Craft and not because they embrace sprinklings of popular culture.

ter, organized 12 multi-faceted training seminars for all Lodge officers, some of whom, individually, or by virtue of the places they occupy in Lodges, have never been beneficiaries of any training program. These seminars were held during the months of February and March, on Saturday mornings and afternoons. Each seminar was customized for officers of a specific station or place in our Lodges. To ensure that undivided attention was given to each seminar, only one of them was held during any one particular time period. Accordingly, separate seminars were held for Worshipful Masters, Senior Wardens, Junior Wardens, Secretaries, Treasurers & Trustees, Senior Deacons, Junior Deacons & Inner Guards, Senior Stewards, Junior Stewards, Marshals/Masters of Ceremonies, Tilers, and Chaplains.

“These officers represent the

Our Grand Lodge, desirous of making all our Lodge officers fully cognizant with the fundamental elements of our Craft, has, over the years, provided training programs for them during the winter and fall of each year. These have been done with the implicit understanding that, they are to supplement the more comprehensive and specialized training initiatives that Lodges would provide for their individual officers. While this approach has served some Lodges well, there has been a general feeling, for many years, that more needed to be done.

keystone of our Fraternity

and are responsible for the

The themes and subjects and content materials covered at the seminars, were formulated and prepared based on work done to identify the training and development needs of our Lodge officers; analyses of the duties and responsibilities of the various stations and places, as recited in the various rituals, ceremonials and in the code; and consultations with brethren in our various Lodges.

success of our Lodges and, thus, our Masonic lives.�

In response to this perception, this year, as part of the Grand Master's declared intention to "Invest in the Craft," a concerted effort has been made to try a new and comprehensive approach to the training of our officers. New always means change and change is never easy, but our Lodge officers have taken it in their stride. They have demonstrated that Washington DC Masons are neither afraid of, nor resistant to, change; on the contrary, they believe change is not only inevitable but also necessary.

For the first time in our history, the Grand Lodge, this winThe Voice of Freemasonry

12

The seminars, each with three sessions, were designed to satisfy 5 objectives: to help the officers satisfy the present demands of their Lodges; prepare them to meet their future responsibilities; assist them with planning for their personal growth; foster fellowship and relationships among brethren of same rank; and generally raise their morale to be able to fulfill their potential as leaders within their Lodges and the Fraternity as a whole. To accomplish these objectives, the seminars, provided the officers with instruction to strengthen and enhance their practical skills; encourage

INVESTING IN THE CRAFT

them to carry-out a number of identified tasks relating to their stations and places; inspire them to pursue, on their own, their skills development as officers and leaders; and to motivate them to improve their knowledge and understanding of our Masonic Code, ancient Landmarks, Masonic history, law and literature. The officers were also reminded that the best form of learning was self-learning and that it was their duty to develop and implement plans to meet their individual needs.

All the seminars were held at the Scottish Rite Center. To promote attendance, letters of invitation, signed by the Grand Master were sent to the respective officers. The Grand Secretary's office sent out announcements to Secretaries and Masters of Lodges urging them to encourage the officers of their Lodges to be in attendance. The Grand Treasurer sent out letters to all Treasurers asking them to attend their seminar and to remind the Trustees about the

interactive training. To put two offices together would mean a class of 74, which is not only more difficult to manage but would deny most participants the opportunity to become fully engaged in the training exercise. This reasoning was borne out by the difficulties encountered in having a joint seminar for the Treasurers and Trustees, an approach to be avoided in the future.

There is work to be done if these seminars are to live up to their promise in future. To sustain them and improve on the successes of this year, it will be necessary to continue to impress on brethren the importance of participating in training programs; update, correct and improve the courses; and identify and/or prepare new training materials and handouts. Equally important would be to persuade more Past Masters to become engaged in the preparation of training materials, and to serve as facilitators/moderators.

Ideally, to share the work equitably, we may need to employ PHOTO COURTESY OF J.P. LUTHER Co.

importance of being in attendance. In addition, email messages, including those with a detailed agenda for each seminar, were posted frequently and regularly on the DCFreemasons List and telephone calls were made to individual Lodge officers.

The feedback from the participants has been very positive and this augurs well for the future of these seminars. Most participants found great value in the manner of presentations, the subject matter, the handouts, and the fact that the seminars were office-centered. Even in cases where there might appear to be overlapping duties, such as with Senior and Junior Stewards, it became obvious that having them meet by rank was more suitable for the purpose of training, quite apart from the due recognition the separation conferred on each office. To begin with, it was possible to tailor the substance of the training sessions, training materials and handouts to the specific office. In addition, limiting a seminar to an office meant that the maximum number of participants would be 37, a size that is slightly bigger than usually recommended for a class devoted to meaningful

52 past Masters made up of 39 facilitators and 13 moderators. That team could easily handle 13 seminars of three sessions each (after splitting up the Treasurers and Trustees).

We have taken a bold step forward in upgrading the nature and character of training we provide for our Lodge officers.

These officers represent the keystone of our Fraternity and are responsible for the success of our Lodges and, thus, our Masonic lives. In essence, they are responsible for the image of our Fraternity, since the Lodges, not the Grand Lodge, determine how the community sees us. In this sense, they wield considerable influence in our ability to attract and retain new members because they shape who we are and what we stand for as an Institution. The education and training of such a group should, therefore, be of paramount importance to us. It, therefore, behooves us to continue providing them with all the necessary resources and assistance to enable them discharge their duties with satisfaction to themselves and advantage to our Lodges, our Grand Lodge and our Fraternity. â– The Voice of Freemasonry

13

The Ceremony of Mak

Opening the emergent communication of the Grand Lodge

The prayer

Sealing the obligation

The grip

The Voice of Freemasonry

14

The apron

Congratulations!

aking a Mason at Sight

The oath

The obligation

On Wednesday, April 4th, 2007, John Kriesel, a 25 year old Minnesota National Guard Soldier, now a patient at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, was made a Mason at Sight by MWB Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master, as a courtesy to the Grand Lodge of Minnesota. Sergeant and now Brother John Kriesel, who lost both legs and suffered other injuries in a roadside explosion in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was presented with the Purple Heart by President George W. Bush at Walter Reed AMC on December 22, 2006.

The word

A call from home – Grand Master of Minnesota on the line...

The Team

The Voice of Freemasonry

15

THE FREE-MASON’S MYSTICAL JOURNEY

The Free-Mason’s Mystical Journey G

enuine initiation is the development of major human qualities and faculties at higher levels which are not generally innate and have to be acquired through Man’s own creative efforts.

HUMAN NATURE: Most esoteric systems scribe humanity as including four bodies corresponding to increasingly subtle states of consciousness, namely: (1) the mineral, physical body; (2) the vegetative “astral” body, similar to the life force animating plants; (3) the animal, instinctive body, with its reactions of attraction, repulsion, or indifference to external causes; and (4) the divine or “causal” body, with its reflexive moral consciousness.

In the Orient, the essentially inanimate mineral body is represented as the cart; the animating vegetative body, with its rudimentary feeling, is the horse; the animal body, with its simple thinking process, is the coachman; and the divine body, with its individuality, consciousness and willpower, is the Master. In the West, human nature is nowadays most often described as the means with which Nature has endowed Man so that he may dominate and exploit the external world, most often, regrettably, in a selfish and greedy manner. Present-day materialism generally tends to give prominence to the physical and vegetative bodies and consider the animal body as an additional asset for those who want to do and earn more. As for the divine body, it is generally considered as a luxury for marginal dreamers!

Andre Salmon, PM

instance. This also explains how, in our present times, masses of human beings are manipulated through external stimuli and exert themselves to satisfy their physical instincts or artificially induced needs.

In the opposite case, control comes from the highest body which has conquered external influences as well as the impulses of the lower bodies. It becomes all the more individual and autonomous from mundane domination as its degree of refinement and subtlety is higher. Such is the case of spiritual masters.

These masters teach and demonstrate that human potentialities are immense and can be realized through appropriate methods, perseverance and progressive practice, like gymnastics.

Oriental philosophers, in general, teach to work more on oneself than on the external world, in order to attain a higher level of reality. Such Indian thinkers as Rabindranath Tagore or Sri Aurobindo focus on Man’s mastery over himself, to control his physical and mental life and live in spiritual bliss, compared to which mastery over things is what a soap bubble is to a rock.

This is similar to the Greek philosopher Plato’s concept which taught that actual, durable reality is that of the Mind, whereas matter is essentially perishable, impermanent, and the world of forms, including human life, is a constantly evanescent illusion, like the rainbow.

“Initiation leads indeed to

wisdom which invites us to realize the essential

evanescent nature of all things and the general

equilibrium in the universe.”

The three lower bodies, however, do not actually belong to the individual; they are governed by external laws of physics and chemistry that rule the whole universe. When the lower bodies are in command, they rule the highest body, often to the point of exterminating it. Such is the case of drug addicts, for The Voice of Freemasonry

16

INITIATION: Initiation to higher levels of consciousness for a number of spiritually powerful individuals, as one would expect to find in Masonic lodges, is a way to polarize the highest potentialities of the human species. Initiation leads indeed to wisdom which invites us to realize the essential evanescent nature of all things and the general equilibrium in the universe.

This balance of the whole is a dynamic process resulting from the constant interaction of its different

THE FREE-MASON’S MYSTICAL JOURNEY

parts. As Hermes Trismegistus asserts in the “Emerald Table”, equilibrium is always ultimately reached between conflicting complementary opposites, like the Oriental Yin and Yang, just as the swinging pendulum eventually becomes the perpendicular. By the same token, this constant dance of the universe generates motion, life and consciousness. This applies to the physical, visible world and the spiritual, invisible world as well. There could be no motion in the mental world if there were no alternating force between analogous opposites. What we call Evil may well be as necessary for the realization of Good as Death is necessary for Life. Such is the dialectics of motion, which is indispensable for life, and balance, which is necessary for the perennity of the universe.

shackles of life and death. To reach the highest floor of the house has been the purpose of initiation across cultures and throughout ages. It is regrettable that masses of men have set aside this essential tradition under the impact of modern materialism and social preoccupations. Is not the search for the Lost Word precisely the art of training the human mind so that it may realize its highest spiritual potential?

THE ASCENT IN FREEMASONRY: To climb this path requires the ceaseless struggle of Man’s willpower to master his physical impulses, his emotions and affectivity. It also requires the constant efforts of his intellectual and spiritual faculties to progress toward divine Truth.

However, the degree of mystical achievement and renunciation to the world’s trappings that Whatever the this path implies cultures and civshould not make ilizations, whatit incompatible ever the times, with a normal all religions and existence in sociphilosophies ety. The ideal is acknowledge indeed to similar fundaimprove major mental truths. To human faculties be initiated is to simultaneously in THE CANDIDATE IN THE “CHAMBER OF REFLECTION” become intia balanced manmately aware of these universal and eternal truths ner so that they can be applied to the world in which which enable Man to understand the world and the we live. This, together with the knowledge offered by meaning of his own life. modern general education, contributes to shaping The four bodies, or levels of consciousness, in Man powerful and complete personalities for their own benhave also been compared to a house with four rooms efit and that of society. Such enlightened equilibrium built on top of one another. The masses of ordinary in the development of intellect, affectivity, willpower men live in the lowest, smallest and most miserable and spirituality is precisely the ultimate objective, the “Royal Secret” of Freemasonry’s rituals, symbols and room on the ground floor without knowing that the esoteric philosophy. other rooms are more comfortable and full of treasures. However, if Man is taught what the other rooms The three “Blue Degrees” form a complete cycle are like, gets their keys and is properly induced to focusing on understanding the essential reality of climb the stairs, he will gradually discover greater human nature and the universe, as well as their intrinand greater comfort and beauty until he reaches the sic inter-relationships; mastering human passions top floor and thus becomes the real owner of his and strengthening virtues, with a view to improving oneself and society; and realizing the meaning of whole house. human existence in life and death. However, the This mystical ascent is the only way for Man to make Master Mason’s Degree, per se, only confers a virtual his life really personal and valuable and get rid of the mastery. It is like roughing-up the ashlar as a prepaThe Voice of Freemasonry

17

THE FREE-MASON’S MYSTICAL JOURNEY

ration for a life-long initiatory work which will broaden and refine human thought with the ultimate objective to attain enlightenment or mystical ecstasy, the realization of unity with the infinite and eternal divine source, the perfect ashlar.

THE REQUIRED DISCIPLINE: The first indispensable step to acquire such wisdom demands self-knowledge and mastery over one’s physical and mental passions. Such is the initial teaching in “Blue Lodges”. Physical discipline should not indeed be underestimated. When it is practiced reasonably, it is indispensable to proper initiation. Experimental psychology indeed teaches that physical attitudes determine corresponding mental attitudes. Initiatory schools have always used physical positions to trigger states of mind. Kneeling in a church, joining hands, bowing one’s head, being barefoot are instrumental in triggering composure and humility. To stand to order in the lodge helps master the body, clarify one’s thinking process and express oneself more concisely, with greater logic. Such is the virtue of rituals.

Such discipline, willfully accepted by Masons, avoids disorderly physical and mental behavior. It makes one conscious of one’s deficiencies that have to be corrected to make a better Man. It also helps fight the natural tendency for the mind to slumber. For instance, in the first degree of the Scottish Rite, the Candidate’s stay in the “Chamber of Reflection”, prior to initiation, increases wisdom, in the sense that all appearances and illusions, rendered useless by physical isolation, are discarded. This facilitates a higher degree of introspection and self-knowledge.

Such discipline helps dig into one’s innermost being and find one’s higher self, one’s spiritual power able to convert the profane man into a higher being, free from the trivialities of social life and better mastering his own destiny.

MASONIC SACRED ESOTERISM: Lodge teachings and ritualistic discipline intend to transform profane thoughts, feelings and action into a sacred act which refines spirituality and raises consciousness by connecting it with a higher reality. This converts the profane Man, often mechanically manipulated by unperceived external forces, into an Initiate mastering his physical and mental comportment in a rationally predetermined environment conducive to self-realization.

The Voice of Freemasonry

18

This could not be done without a spiritual doctrine about the universe and life which establishes universal evolution as an ascending movement through the Spirit. Masonry symbolizes this process in the form of Solomon’s Temple as a work of wisdom, force and beauty. This is not the fruit of imaginative fantasy, but closely follows the immutable laws of Nature and their all-pervading Creative Principle esoterically called the Great Architect of the Universe.

This esoterism allows Masons to adapt and interpret Masonic symbols according to their culture, education and creativity. This makes Masonry far richer and more fecund than any other spiritual approach. It makes life in the world a path toward Man’s Higher Self, Man’s Soul, which is of identical nature with the Supreme Principle of the Universe. This makes Man the continuator of Creation.

CONCLUSION: To ignore the necessary efforts to undertake such an ascent is like tendering one’s resignation as a Mason. In this undertaking, the Mason should remain humble. This will be easier if the Mason starts with analyzing his spontaneous reactions and concepts, and sounding the obscure regions of his being where his unconscious, mechanical actions originate. The consciousness of his weaknesses will make his mind more benevolent, and liberate it from prejudice and intolerance. He will be in a better position to accept the difference and even opposition of others without submitting his integrity to their imperatives and taboos.

This life-long process requires much attention and perseverance, but it will result in establishing our will as the sovereign master of our life, which is one of the ultimate goals of initiation. Only those will succeed who have sufficient faith in Masonic values, active men whose will power, intelligence and love are directed toward constantly improving all manifestations of life in the universe. This is the best definition of the Royal Art. It requires time and makes the undertaking particularly difficult in our days when Man tries to conquer time. Time does not respect what is done without it. Only patient and insatiable men can succeed, since Time, the ultimate winner, is on their side. Therefore, Brethren, let us not be in a hurry since our Masonic mystical journey will never end. ■

FREEMASONRY: FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION OR FRATERNAL INITIATIC SOCIETY?

Freemasonry: Fraternal Organization or Fraternal Initiatic Society?

W ords can be much more than words; they can convey profound messages and reflect our way of thinking. The words we choose to use when we speak of our Fraternity reveal how we really view Freemasonry.

So, is Freemasonry a fraternal “organization” or a fraternal “initiatic society?”

FRATERNAL INITIATIC SOCIETY A “society” is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary as: •

An “organization” is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary as: Something that has been organized or made into an ordered whole.

•

Something made up of elements with varied functions that contribute to the whole and to collective functions; an organism.

•

A group of persons organized for a particular purpose; an association: a benevolent organization.

A fraternal organization, sometimes also known as a “fraternity,” is an organization that represents the relationship between its members as akin to brotherhood.

There exists in the United States today, more than one million non-profit organizations that one can choose to

Deputy Grand Master

join. Is Freemasonry among these organizations that a person can simply join? Of course not! So, what are we really about?

FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION

•

Akram R. Elias,

A group of humans broadly distinguished from other groups by mutual interests, participation in characteristic relationships, shared institutions, and a common culture.

Freemasonry is indeed a fraternal “society” of men who distinguish themselves from others by mutual interests (to become better men), participation in characteristic relationships (ritualistic ceremonies), shared institutions (the Lodge), and a common culture (Masonic symbolism). Furthermore, one doesn’t “join” Freemasonry; one is “initiated”, “taken and accepted” into Freemasonry.

Our words are a force; they are the tool that we use to communicate and create the events in our life. By stressing the fact that we are a fraternal initiatic society, we remind ourselves of the true mission of our Noble Craft and become more vigilant in: •

“Watching the west gate” – is that person worthy of being initiated into our society?

• “Loving our ritual” – are we devoting time to learn the ritual, which distinguishes us from the profane and helps each one of us build his internal temple?

• “Speaking in symbols” – are we designing Lodge instruction programs that help us decipher the hidden meanings of our symbols, which are naturally invisible to the naked eye?

• Esoteric Initiation

• “Living our Freemasonry” – are we discussing in Lodge meaningful ways to internalize the teachings of Freemasonry in order to truly become better men and make a positive difference in our respective communities?

The Voice of Freemasonry

19

FREEMASONRY: FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION OR FRATERNAL INITIATIC SOCIETY?

The time has come for us to orchestrate a serious paradigm shift and bring about a renaissance of Freemasonry. The world needs Freemasonry as it should be, as it was conceived to be – a fraternal initiatic society of men who can change the world. Where else but in a Masonic Lodge, can an Armenian and Turk, a Jew and an Arab, a Christian and a Moslem, come together in a true spirit of brotherhood? These men can socialize with one another over cocktails and at receptions in many other organizations; but only behind the tiled door of a Lodge, in the initiatic society of Freemasonry, do these men take sacred oaths binding themselves to one another as brothers and committing themselves to be builders of a better world. The world today is in desperate need of such “initiated” men who can hasten the dissipation of a thick cloud of darkness that ignorance, fanaticism, and despotism have brought forth and is once again threatening our humanity. ■

More thoughts on words “All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom; justice; honor; duty; mercy; hope” – Sir Winston Churchill

“A word and a stone let go cannot be recalled” – Spanish Proverb

“A bad word whispered will echo a hundred miles” – Chinese Proverb

“Be impeccable with your word” – Ancient Toltec Wisdom

Universal Brotherhood Celebration Schedule of Events FRIDAY, JUNE 8TH Universal Lodge Meeting Officers from DC bi-lingual Lodges will occupy the Places and Stations and open the Universal Lodge in their native languages. Location: DC Scottish Rite Center Twinning Ceremony Twinning of La France No. 93 and Tolerance No. 2 of Gabon followed by a seated Table Lodge Dinner. Location: DC Scottish Rite Center

SATURDAY, JUNE 9TH National Masonic Trail Commencing from Almas Shrine Temple Wreath Laying Ceremony The Grand Master will lay a wreath and offer remarks at the Memorial to the Signers of the Declaration of Independence Reception and Banquet The Grand Master will award the Medal of Freedom and present scholarships at this event to take place at Almas Shrine Temple For times and further information visit: Times and further information willwww.dcgrandlodge.org be forthcoming.

The Voice of Freemasonry

20

LIFE –AND DEATH– AFTER HAROLD...

Life –and Death– after Harold...

T

he roll of workmen had been called and one brother Mason had not answered to his name.

The family had asked for a Masonic Service but the funeral home could not schedule an early date. Then, as the family and friends were settling for an uneasy wait, the word came that there had been a cancellation. Cancellation? Somebody had decided not to die; not just yet? Anyway, there was an opening and the service had to be held right away. But who was going to take charge on such a short notice? The answer was clear to everyone, right away. It had to be Harold.

It almost always is. The word was put out to the brethren to be there!

Harold was there before everyone else, as he always is. He had brought all that was needed, as he always does. He never takes chances. He has been burned too many times to rely on others.

It turned out to be a rainy night with strong winds, as for some reason it often is, on occasions such as this. He lined up all who had managed to get there on time. Brother Masons, lodge officers, Grand Lodge officers, and yes, even the Grand Master.

will remember for a much longer time how a group of dignified looking men came and bowed in front of their grandfather’s casket and said things that they did not understand, but must have been all good, because their parents seemed so impressed and so appreciative. They will come to know that perhaps the whole ceremony was for them, and not so much for the departed loved one; he had just facilitated that.

I got carried away! I did not intend for this to sound like a report. I just wanted to remind everybody how important all this is. Perhaps it is not a subject any of us cares to entertain; nonetheless, it is an inescapable reality that deserves our attention. I also wanted to ask: what will happen after Harold is gone? Who else will be there to lead the way at the drop of a hat? Don’t get me wrong. I pray and trust that Harold will live for a long, long time to come. But, “what man is he that liveth and shall not see death? No one knoweth the hour. All expect it.

None escape it.” So who is going to take care of this very important obligation?

Our last act of brotherly love toward our brother

occurs when we celebrate

He has done it for a long time, and so many times and so well, that all of us have come to believe that he is going to be there for ever and ever to do the job. We wish! But let me tell you, apart from performing these services, he is out there, as part of the agenda for the Lodges of Instruction, trying to teach us all how to do the job and do it well. It is for each and every Worshipful Master to schedule at least one exemplification or rehearsal of the Masonic Funeral Service in his lodge and invite others to attend. Every lodge should maintain a cadre of brothers who can perform the funeral service, preferably from memory, and according to the wishes of the deceased brother or his family.

his life with a Masonic

It was a solemn ceremony; a job well done as it is always with Harold. Family and friends were all so impressed and seemed very grateful. Harold, by way of offering condolences to the family and friends, told them that the brethren had come to pay their last respects to the departed brother; he told them that even the Grand Master was there. You should have been there and seen the members of the deceased brother’s family, heads held high, looking at each other with pride and satisfaction. Soon there were the farewells with warm handshakes and hugs all around.

Funeral Service.

Children, conscious of the way their parents and elders were acting, realized that something significant was happening. Perhaps they had never seen so many men in dark suits, with white aprons and white gloves, some with silver or gold chains around their necks. They were asking questions. They will continue with their questions for a long time to come and they

Let me tell you why! Let me tell you a bit about the Masonic Funeral Service and what it really means.

Our last act of brotherly love toward our brother occurs when we celebrate his life with a Masonic Funeral Service. A request from a brother or his famThe Voice of Freemasonry

21

LIFE –AND DEATH– AFTER HAROLD...

Life -and Death- after Harold... continued from page 21

ily for a Masonic funeral must be honored without hesitation. The ceremony must always be conducted with dignity and decorum. The final farewell to a brother Mason remains the last public honor a lodge can perform for him. This requires us to be prepared to perform the Masonic Funeral Service to the best of our ability. Our departed brother deserves the respect that a well conducted service reflects. This duty must be fulfilled in a way that will leave a lasting impression of our fraternal love and devotion with those attending the service, more especially the family and friends of the deceased.

It is also incumbent upon all of us to remember our Creator in the days of our youth. By that I mean planning for the day when we depart for the Celestial Lodge. As a Mason, in this Grand Jurisdiction, you are

entitled to a Masonic Funeral Service, if you so desire, and all too often we do not make this known to our loved ones. You can certainly help your next of kin if you make some suggestions, in writing, about your final arrangements. They have probably never seen the Masonic Funeral Service, so you should let them know that your brothers would be grateful for the opportunity to say farewell to you and offer comfort to your survivors, via this beautiful ritual.

We Masons affirm that the immortality of the soul is a gift of God. But death is still difficult for us because it means separation from the brothers, family members, and close friends. Then let us not neglect our widows and orphans and all those who morn. Let us remember that we are loved by God; let us put our trust in Him. Let us take some time and find ways to reach out and comfort the widows of the brothers we knew and loved. ■ ~Mansour Hatefi, P.G.M.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Special Olympics - D.C. Summer Games Tuesday, May 22, 2007 01:30 PM – 03:00 PM: Set-up crew of 30 to 40 brethren should arrive to help set up the serving lines.

03:00 PM - 05:45 PM: We need all the volunteers to be there to serve food and drinks to the athletes and families.

05:45 PM - 06:45 PM: We need 30 to 40 brethren to help clean the area.

06:30 PM – 07:30 PM: Volunteers are encouraged to stay and watch the opening ceremony.

To volunteer, please contact Jesse Villarreal (SGD): JV1301@aol.com Teko Foly (SGS): fmteko@yahoo.com Ken Fuller (JGS): kedafuller@rcn.com Kurt Hamrock (WM#7): khamrock@mckennalong.com Go to www.specialolympicsdc.org for complete schedule information The Voice of Freemasonry

22

ON OUR KNEES: THOUGHTS ON MASONIC PRAYER

On Our Knees: Thoughts on Masonic Prayer M

asonry teaches prayer by exemplifying a very sophisticated form of spirituality. While we, as Masons, rightly defer the title of religion to more appropriate faith bodies, we are, nonetheless, practitioners of a form of spirituality in which prayer is the decisive discipline. In this we can be compared to certain 12 step groups, which have a spiritual basis, yet which do not seek to be substitutes for any faith community.

Masons pray. We pray as we open our meetings and in their closing. We give thanks for our food. We commend our departed brethren in their passing. We teach that every human being should invoke the blessing of deity upon every laudable undertaking.

We are called to remember each other’s welfare as our own when at our devotions.

In the Master Mason Degree we have several distinct prayer forms, all of which are essential to any disciplined spiritual life in nearly every faith community.

The Master prays a carefully crafted prayer after the candidates enter. This prayer hints at levels of meaning that cannot be known in the degree itself. This is always true of prayer and a life in the spirit. What we do on this earthly mosaic can never be fully known until we see our creator face to face.

Kenneth Fuller, Junior Grand Steward

gion, and it is not.

It does and must have its proper form of spirituality.

For, to trust in God is to trust in the unseen power of the world of the Spirit. As Masons we need not agree on the fine points of theology, nor even which Holy book is most sacred. We certainly do not seek any definition of God beyond that of a loving Father and that of a wise and creative architect of this space-time checkerboard. But we can and do pray together. We pray scriptural prayers and prayers written specifically for our work. We pray silently and in unison. We are led in prayer at times by the Master and at other times by the Chaplain. We pray for ourselves and as we do we pray for our brothers’ welfare.

And when not in Lodge, we pray in our own religious communities, in our homes and in the deepest places within our hearts.

And for the true Mason prayer always precedes action: actions of brotherhood, citizenship, and widespread and unbounded charity, always in the spirit of building up our earthly temples for a glad Celestial reward. ■

Later there is a moment of unscripted spontaneous prayer. The one who prays knows not what or how to pray, for he has no idea of what will follow. Yet pray he must. And that isolated prayer is upheld by the silent prayers of those who stand, unseen, circling the brother who prays with brotherly love and affection.

At the culmination of the degree two prayers are spoken. The first is a lament, by the craft as a chorus of despair and grief. Then King Solomon kneels and prays a prayer of selected verses from the Holy Scriptures and, in a Psalm-like cadence, reveals a hope subtly, yet barely, acknowledged throughout the degree.

Indeed, to be a Mason one must pray. Silent assent is not enough. We must pray if we are to put our trust in God. We maintain that Freemasonry is not a reliThe Voice of Freemasonry

23

TO CREATE A LEGACY

To Create a Legacy HOW ONE MASON CHANGED THE WORLD

BY BEING A BUILDER

I

n the minds of many Americans, the name John Pershing evokes a wide range of emotions: brilliant tactician; desk-riding micromanager; six-star General; unforgiving disciplinarian; the Presidential candidate of the people; the Captain who made General because of his connections. In one way or another, Pershing was all of these things, and many more. His relevance today, however, is sharply different from that of his contemporaries. The reason for this is simple: Pershing’s adherence to a high set of moral standards, and his insistence that those around him meet the same standards, inspired others to improve themselves.

As a military officer, Pershing was well known for his principles. He dressed impeccably, and in fact is the reason that members of the armed forces must maintain a well-groomed appearance and a clean, pressed uniform. His strict disciplinary standards were well known by his students at West Point, and his ethics and fair treatment of the local populace kept the peace during his time in the Philippines.

Many high ranking officials, however, both military and civilian, have become well known for their approaches to the world. From the Marshall Plan to Chairman Mao’s Little Red Book, our world has been shaped, and from time to time re-shaped, by the ideas of the wise and the powerful. How then, did General of the Armies Pershing succeed in ensuring that his name would outlast the other leaders of his time? And what can we, as Masons, learn from him?

To answer these questions, one needs only to look at the legacy that General Pershing left behind, the organization that still bears his name: the National Society of Pershing Rifles. The nation’s premier undergraduate military fraternal organization, the hallmark of the Pershing Rifles is that they remain as true to their founder’s ideals today as the General did throughout his lifetime.

It has been said that class never goes out of style, nor does propriety. In a world of instant communication and lawsuit-happy citizens, organizations that adhere to “outmoded” ideals such as Relief, Truth, and Brotherly Love should have a hard time keeping up with today’s

The Voice of Freemasonry

24

Jeremy S. Barnes,

JW, Potomac Lodge No.5

impersonal, digital reality. Yet neither Masonry nor the Pershing Rifles are fading into the history books; rather, both are experiencing a virtual renaissance. In each case, the ideals of the organization are the root of this success.

In 1891, when Pershing arrived as the newly-appointed Professor of Military Science and Tactics at the University of Nebraska, he was appalled by what he found.

The cadets there, lulled into believing the public perception that there would never be another war, lacked even basic levels of motivation and esprit de corps. No doubt Pershing’s Masonic background was one reason for his reaction: he created a precision rifle drill team, and named it Company A. The rationale behind Company A was simple: by placing the best-drilled and highest motivated cadets on display, and by creating an environment in which they could improve themselves, Pershing hoped to create an example for the rest. His plan worked wonderfully: against long odds and public opposition, Company A entered and won the maiden competition of the National Competitive Drills in Omaha, NE. The rest of the cadets, inspired by the success of their peers, improved as a unit. Pershing’s success was such, in fact, that the President of the University—once, like most of the faculty, opposed to the military’s presence on his campus—went out of his way to personally request that Pershing’s tour of duty at the school be extended.

As for the members of Company A, the work ethic and ideals instilled in them by Lieutenant Pershing shaped their future. In two short years they reorganized themselves as a fraternal organization, taking the name “Varsity Rifles”. A year later, in honor of their founder, they changed their name to the “Pershing Rifles”.

Membership became a high military honor, and the organization was widely seen as an integral part of Nebraska’s social framework. Their prestige rose with Pershing’s, and membership at its peak included over 10,000 students at nearly 200 colleges and universities around the nation. The members of the original unit -

TO CREATE A LEGACY

went on to distinguish themselves both in battle as well as in civilian careers; many of their successors have received similar honors.

and should be remembered for them; in General of the Armies Pershing’s case, however, his name is kept alive on a daily basis by the young men and women of the Pershing Rifles. In this manner, Pershing left a true legacy: an unending chain of individuals dedicated, just as the General was, to the timeless ideals of loyalty; devotion; friendship; justice; truth; purity; cleanliness of heart; and rectitude of conduct.

Much has been written about the path that Pershing’s career followed upon his departure from the University of Nebraska; in all accounts, his tireless attention to detail and his gallantry under pressure stand out. By staying true to his basic moral beliefs, he made a reputaAnd so, even this brief study yields tion for himself as a strict—but a profound lesson for the Mason: fair—officer who supported the as we perpetuate the name of high standards he demanded by Masonry by working to better ourexceeding them himself. From the selves and each other, we respect he gave the Buffalo Sollengthen the life of our fraternity. diers he led to his demand that As we learn to subdue our pasAmerican forces in the Great War sions in favor of selfless service, would fight under the American we strengthen the Craft, and in Flag, his ethics earned him the turn strengthen ourselves. The respect of all who knew him. In wise understand that true strength, 1919, the United States Congress power, and influence come only rewarded his selfless service by through service to one’s fellow • Pershing Riflemen at the 2004 John J. advancing him to the rank of Genman; as Masons, our calling is to Pershing Memorial Drill Competition eral of the Armies, the highest rank be known among men for our willever held by an American military officer. ingness to serve. Remember, as Pershing did, that Nearly sixty years after his death, the name John Persh- there are always those willing to improve themselves; ing has not been forgotten by the general public. Other even when faced with what seems to be overwhelming prominent military figures such as Bradley, MacArthur, complacency, sometimes excellence only needs a or Nimitz are primarily remembered in the context of his- forum in which to flourish. ■ tory, or for the places or fighting machines that bear their names. These men accomplished great things,

John Joseph Pershing,

Master Mason

General Pershing received his first three degrees in December of 1888, likely while on leave from his military duties. He was initiated into Lincoln Lodge No. 19 of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska on December 11, 1888, and passed and raised on December 22 of the same year. In 1894, Pershing received further light as a Royal Arch Mason and Knight Templar, both also in Lincoln, NE. In 1919, General Pershing was granted Honorary Membership in Stansbury Lodge No. 19, F.A.A.M. of the District of Columbia (now National-Stansbury-Dawson Lodge No. 12). He received his 32nd degree in Wheeling, WV in 1920, and was made a 33rd Degree Mason in 1930. Pershing was also a member of the Shrine.

In 1942, Pershing had the singular honor of being made an Honorary Member of the Grand Lodge of Missouri by President Truman, himself a Mason.

The Voice of Freemasonry

25

THE ONE YEAR CHALLENGE!

The One Year Challenge!

Garrison K. Courtney

W

ho am I? I am no more than one Mason in one blue lodge, which is a part of one Grand Lodge.

I am not a senior lodge officer or a Grand Lodge officer. I am not overly-studied in Masonry, but I am not under-studied. I am just one man, presenting a challenge to all Masons who read this. Pledge one year to Masonry --just one year.

I am sure you are wondering why I am asking you to take this challenge. The answer is simple. I honestly and truly believe that if, for one year, you accept this challenge, our membership will grow, our attendance will increase, you will feel personally better about yourself, and you will possibly learn more about Masonry than you will during your whole tenure in the Craft.

This is the challenge. Pledge for one year to come to blue lodge at least once every other month if you have not come at all. Pledge for one year to ask one question about Masonry that you do not understand so that you can seek further light into Masonry. For one year, don't just send out a Masonic bulletin and hope members will come and then wonder why they don’t. Call them; go to their homes; invite them to social events. If they don't come, call them again. If they still don't come, call them again!

Pledge for one year to live a Masonic life. This will be the hardest, and yet easiest, thing you will ever do.

What does living a Masonic life mean? That answer may be different for each of you. Perhaps you need to work toward fulfilling your obligation to seek further light. Maybe you want to fulfill your obligation to the

Coming Events

The Voice of Freemasonry

26

widows and orphans? Possibly you need to try to fulfill your obligation to live a life of balance. Choose just one thing you want to work on, but dedicate yourself to it.

Pledge to yourself that for one year, you will get to know one member of your lodge. And when I say, "get to know him," I mean, find out who he is as a person and who his family is. Discover what support you can give to him, and he to you.

Go to lodge together and support each other Masonically. Aid him in becoming a better man. Start with just one year.

Pledge to yourself that for one year, you will offer assistance through charity to your community, even if it is just one time. Plant a tree, pick up trash in your neighborhood, or assist an elderly person in need. Pledge to yourself that you will perform just one act of charity this year and finally, pledge to yourself that for just one year you will seek some type of religious education. Go to church, read a religious text -- whatever it is you choose, just do it one time in the next year.

This challenge may seem overly simple, but the hardest part of this challenge, which many will ultimately fail, is to accept it.

So, I again ask you: Who am I? I am but one Mason in one lodge, which is part of one Grand Lodge.

Now I ask you the question... who are you, and will you accept my humble challenge? ■ Editor’s Note: The author, who is a member of William R. Singleton-Hope- Lebanon Lodge No. 7 and Missoula Lodge No. 13 in Montana, was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on January 29, 2000.

Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia

Semi – Annual Communication ................................................................................ May 9 DC Special Olympics................................................................................ May 22, 23 & 24 Masonic Day of Thanksgiving.................................................................................. June 3 Universal Brotherhood Celebration ................................................................. June 8 & 9 National Masonic Trail (Volksmarch) ..................................................................... June 9 Palisades Community Parade and Picnic .................................................................July 4

MASONIC RESEARCH AWARDS PROGRAM

Masonic Research Awards Program Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia

A

s part of its efforts to promote Masonic research and education within our jurisdiction, Pythagoras Lodge of Research (PLoR) is inviting all brethren to participate in a Masonic Research Awards Program by submitting papers

on Masonic subjects of their choosing. There will be three (3) Awards for three (3) papers of varying lengths to be presented by the Grand Master at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. Selection of honorees shall be made by the Awards Committee appointed by the Master and approved by members of PLoR. Guidelines and further information:

1. Deadline for submission of papers is August 31, 2007.

2. Papers must treat Masonic subjects. Work must be original, balanced and researched with appropriate endnotes or references.

3. Participants may submit one or multiple papers: Short Paper (500-750 words); Medium-length Paper (1000-1500 words); and Long Paper (over 2000 words) 4. Papers are to be submitted either (a) as a Word document in an email attachment to haroldgrainger01@aol.com. or (b) as hard copy mailed to the PLoR Secretary, Harold Grainger, 14914 Laurel Oaks Lane, Laurel, MD 20707-5518 5. With the permission of the submitter, a paper may be made available for presentation in a constituent Lodge, included in the PLoR Transactions, and/or published in the Voice of Freemasonry.

Who was Pythagoras and the Pythagorians?

Pythagoras was a philosopher, mathematician and a mystic born in Somas, Greece. He traveled to Egypt, Babylon, and India. The Pythagorians believed in transmigration of souls and were vegetarians. The very words "philosophy" (or love of wisdom) and "mathematics" ('that' which is learned) are supposed to have been coined by Pythagoras himself. With their group, mathematics was more close to a love of wisdom than was the exigencies of practical life and they had a rigorous dedication to keeping the soul pure while they attended their philosophical studies.(1) The Pythagorians, a school founded by Pythagoras, were interested in how things were related in the universe. They noted the fact that many things which were related could be stated by numbers. For example the length of a string was related to it's sound on an instrument. So they reasoned that the 'stuff' for which philosophers were looking was numbers. Numbers became things and entities for them and they taught the universe was built by numbers.

A point was one, and a line was two, a triangle was three, a square was four, and since the harmonious octave reached over eight notes, eight was friendship. They developed a most complex system of numbers in their efforts to show how everything was actually made of numbers.(2) (1) Reference: Paraphrased from A History of Mathematics, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (2) Reference: Condensed from Ideas of the Great Philosophers, Barnes & Noble, Inc.

The Voice of Freemasonry

27

Making a Mason at Sight Walter Reed Army Medical Center, April 4, 2007 (L to R): Sissay Awoke, Grand Lodge Physician; Akram R. Elias, Deputy Grand Master; Sheldon I. Rappeport, Grand Lecturer; Mansour Hatefi, PGM, Grand Secretary; John Kriesel (seated); Richard E. Fletcher, PGM, Executive Secretary MSA; Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master; Sviatoslav V. Voloshin, Grand Lodge Photographer; Gerhard Meinzer, Grand Tiler; Robert F. Drechsler, Grand Treasurer

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

NonProfit Org. US Postage

PAID Permit No. 207 Dulles, VA