The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 24 No. 3

Volume 24, Number 3 2007

SERVING

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

THE

COMMUNITY

The Voice of Freemasonry

1

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

Voice of Freemasonry

SERVING

Volume 24, Number 3, 2007 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master MANAGING EDITOR Mansour Hatefi, PGM Grand Secretary

THE

COMMUNITY

The Freemasons of Washington, DC can frequently be found working alongside their brothers Volume 24, Number 3 2007

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

and neighbors in an effort to improve the human condition.

Whether it is feeding Special

The Voice of Freemasonry is an official publication of

Olympics athletes and their fam-

the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons

ilies, helping parents to register

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

their children with the important

noted, articles appearing in this publication express

Child

Identification

Program

only the private opinion or assertions of the writer, and

(CHIP), inaugurating the first

do not necessarily reflect the official position of the SERVING

THE

COMMUNITY

The Voice of Freemasonry

Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks only through the

National Masonic Trail or sup-

Grand Master and the Executive Board and, when

porting and participating in the Palisades neighborhood’s

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

Independence Day celebration, DC Masons are serving the

The editorial staff invites contributions in the form of

community. The photos featured on the cover of this issue 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,

1

the Voice illustrate but a sampling of these activities, with more to follow in the succeeding pages.

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

Table of Contents

Pieces submitted should be typed, double-spaced and

Page

preferably accompanied by a computer disk in a neutral PC format or via e-mail to: grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org

Cover Notes ........................................................................................................2 Grand Master’s Message .....................................................................................3 Looking Ahead to the Annual Communication.......................................................5 A Future Worthy of Our Grand Lodge ...................................................................6

Articles are subject to editing and, when published,

The Essence of Masonry....................................................................................10

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

Masonic Family Day of Thanksgiving ..................................................................11

the District of Columbia. No compensation is allowed

The Power of Love ............................................................................................12

for any articles, photographs, or other materials sub-

Universal Brotherhood Celebration 2007–Universal Lodge...................................14

mitted for publication.

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

The Twinning Ceremony and the Miracle of Freemasonry ....................................15 The Table Lodge: In Praise of Diplomacy ............................................................17

publications and others. When reprinted, articles

National Masonic Trail ........................................................................................20

should note: “Reprinted with permission of the Voice of

Universal Brotherhood Banquet..........................................................................21

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

Sojourner Kilwinning in Trinidad and Tobago .......................................................24 Combined Federal Campaign .............................................................................27

Please direct all correspondence to: Managing Editor: The Voice of Freemasonry 5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W.

Independence Day Parade and Picnic ................................................................28 Special Olympics of DC .....................................................................................30 2007 Grand Visitations.......................................................................................31

Washington, DC 20016-2524 Photo Credits: All photographs in this issue, unless otherwise indicated, were provided either by Brother Sviatslov V. Voloshin, Grand Lodge Photographer, or Worshipful Brother William D. Means. All other images were provided by the individuals concerned or derived from open sources on the internet.

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GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Grand Master’s Message This issue of the Voice affords us the opportunity to

Masonic education and information has received

officially call our Brethren from recess to labor. July

special attention, through a renewal in the program-

and August is a period when most of our lodges go

ming of Pythagoras Lodge of Research. Papers and

dark and Masonic activity is generally at a minimum.

presentations are an integral part of every meeting

However, this is also a time to reflect on what has

and the lodge is serving as a valuable resource for

transpired and to review the plans and programs we

papers and speakers. Pythagoras has also initiated

set in the beginning of the year so that we may eval-

a forum for our Brethren to contribute short original

uate our success in achieving our

papers on Masonic subjects, with

objectives; and, yes, double our

awards for worthy contributions.

determination and efforts to assure

To improve Grand Lodge communi-

success in the implementation of our

cations a new and improved online

plans for the remainder of the year

calendar is now available on the

and beyond.

Grand Lodge web site. All Brethren

In reviewing what we have done in

are now provided with easy access

the first six months of 2007, we have

to updated Lodge and Grand

every reason to be proud of our

Lodge trestle boards and pro-

achievements. Our lodges have

grams,

been busy with new programs,

Master’s schedule.

improving their ritual work, providing

Grand

engaging in community outreach in

tations and discussions in the lodge,

a continuous manner, the Grand

and initiating an impressive number Grand Lodge side, we have worked

the

To raise our Masonic profile by

Masonic education through presen-

of quality young candidates. On the

including

Lodge’s charitable endeavors have Most Worshipful Brother Robert B. Heyat

with our lodges and Brethren to complement their efforts and provide the necessary support.

Our main objective this year has been “Investing in the Craft”. To that end, the Grand Lodge has focused on the following issues and areas:

focused

on

several

important

areas: children, education, youth

and veterans. We thank all lodges collectively and the members individually who participated as partners with the Grand Lodge in these activities: •

The DC Games of Special Olympics was one of

the major events, and more than 1200 athletes and

-

Proficiency in Ritual Work

their families were entertained and fed by more than

-

Masonic Education

70 volunteers from our lodges and appendant bod-

-

Training of lodge officers

ies. Our Grand Lodge was recognized as a major

-

Masonic communications

sponsor and participated in the opening ceremonies

-

Charity together with Community Outreach

of the Games.

-

Membership development by initiating and retain ing quality candidates.

•

Making Sergeant John Kriesel, recipient of the

Purple Heart, a Mason at Sight in Walter Reed Army

The members of our Work and Lectures Committee

Medical Center, on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Min-

have been very busy helping the lodges in their ritual

nesota, was a highly emotional event which

work and they have taken the Grand Lodge School of

represented the principle of patriotism in our Frater-

Instruction to the lodges getting lodge instructors to

nity at its finest. Brother John Kriesel was also

participate fully in all aspects of the ritual work.

elected an honorary member in our Freedom Military

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GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Lodge No. 1775 and was awarded the Medal of Free-

all and will strive to find a way of thanking them prop-

dom in an inspiring ceremony as part of our Universal

erly before the year is over.

Brotherhood Celebration.

During the summer recess, the Grand Secretary’s

The Masonic Day of Thanksgiving, celebrated for

office kept busy with preparations for the fall and win-

the first time in the beautiful Auditorium of our Scot-

ter programs and activities of the Grand Lodge,

tish Rite Center, with an all-inclusive spiritual

keeping the constituent lodges and membership in

program, music and refreshment, and a record par-

general informed of upcoming events, providing sup-

ticipation by our brethren, their family and friends as

port for the Annual Leadership Conference in

well as members of our appendant bodies, was the

September, the Grand Visitations and Annual Com-

manifestation of our gratitude for the blessings of the

munication in October, and the Third Communication

Almighty and a source of joy and deep satisfaction

in December.

•

for all.

We will have a few more major events in the coming

The Universal Brotherhood Celebration, included

months, such as the Veterans 10K Race and the DC

the unique and inspiring Universal Lodge and Festive

School program. I have also scheduled a number of

Board, together with the National Masonic Trail Walk,

Grand Visitations to groupings of lodges meeting in

a new and highly successful event marking once

the same Masonic temple, and look forward to high

again the universality of our Craft by bringing

attendance and receiving positive reports on their

together all our lodges as well as dignitaries from Sis-

activities and programs.

•

ter Jurisdictions from the U.S. and abroad.

It is because of your outstanding achievements thus

The final event on the calendar of the Grand

far that I am looking forward to the start of the second

Lodge, before the summer recess, was the 4th of July

half of our Masonic year with renewed enthusiasm

Parade and Picnic at the Palisades, a community out-

and energy, recognizing that we have yet a lot to do

reach program, showcasing once again the fruits of

to achieve the goals set at the beginning of the year.

•

dedication, organization and hard work by our brethren, serving the Community.

Looking further ahead and in continuation of programs and projects to Invest in the Craft, the 9th

You will find detailed reports on all these activities in

World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges will be

the pages of this issue of the Voice of Freemasonry,

held next May in our nation’s capital under the aus-

which in and of itself is a major undertaking and a

pices of the Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C. The

source of pride for us all to have an official publica-

organizing committee, led by our Deputy Grand Mas-

tion of this caliber.

ter, has been hard at work since the beginning of the

I can not even begin to give credit and recognize individually or collectively all who have put in so much time and labored hard and selflessly to make all these activities and events possible. I salute them

current year in preparation of what promises to be yet another big step forward in promoting our fraternity across the world, and further enhancing our standing as a premier Grand Lodge in World Freemasonry.

Are you doing your part to help the Craft grow?

The Grand Lodge has done a great deal to get the lodges to be more active in the community and attempt to have the community know us little better. But no amount of public relations can ever take the place of the individual mason. How we act in public, how we treat other people, how we behave toward each other are the most powerful factors in encouraging others to look at our fraternity favorably.

The Builder

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LOOKING AHEAD TO THE ANNUAL CELEBRATION

Looking Ahead to the Annual Communication Mansour Hatefi,

PGM,

Grand Secretary

The Voice of Freemasonry, which is dispatched to

As in the past years, the business session will see the

each and every member of the constituent Lodges of

presentation of the Report of the Grand Master and

the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, apart

reports of the Grand Lodge officers and committee

from presenting articles of import and timely reports,

chairmen requiring Grand Lodge action, considera-

is also a valuable means of communication and dis-

tion of the resolutions submitted to the Grand

semination of information to the membership in order

Secretary’s Office, presentation of Valentine Reintzel

to keep them abreast of the various events, activities

Medals to deserving brethren, and nomination of the

and developments in the Jurisdiction.

recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal, if one is

In the last issue of the Voice the subject of the Grand

to be awarded.

Lodge membership and the merits of attendance and

The afternoon session, after lunch, will feature the

participation in the Grand Communications were dis-

election of the Grand Lodge officers, one Grand

cussed. It is with the same intent that some of the

Lodge Trustee and the recipient of the Distinguished

actions taken by the Grand Lodge at the Semi-

Service Medal. Other business will be taken care of,

Annual Communication on May 9, 2007 are being

while the ballots are counted and tabulated.

reviewed, here.

The Third Communication, however, will be of a more

Let us begin with the decision to change the dates of

ceremonial and social nature. The Annual Member-

our Annual and Third Communications from 2nd and

ship Banquet is to be held on the 2nd Friday in

3rd Saturday in December to 4th Saturday in October

December (December 7th this year), at Renaissance

and 2nd Saturday in December, respectively.

Washington D.C. Hotel, for members, family, friends

It is not intended to reiterate the rationale presented for this change, here and in full. Suffice it to say that holding the Annual Communication on an earlier date (Saturday, October 27th this year) will reduce the number of Grand Lodge meetings in the very busy month of December and will offer the Grand Masterelect and other elected officers a much longer period to confidently plan and prepare for a speedy and

and guests. The Third Communication, which is also open to family, friends and guests, will be held the next day, to bid farewell to the outgoing Grand Master, honor the Distinguished Service Medal recipient, receive and recognize invited guests and dignitaries.

This event will culminate in the installation of the Grand Lodge officers, followed by a sumptuous reception as a fitting start for the year-end festivities.

effective start in the ensuing Masonic year. Further-

A second action of the Grand Lodge had to do with

more, by inviting guests from sister jurisdictions to the

the findings and recommendations of a committee

Third Communication, rather than the Annual Com-

appointed by the Grand Master to review the voting

munication, the time consuming process of the

and balloting system in our Grand Communications.

reception and recognition of the invited guests will be

The committee, based on the determination of the

eliminated, affording more time for the conduct of the

Jurisprudence Committee that the process of record-

Grand Lodge business, open deliberations and the

ing attendance, voting and balloting at Grand Lodge

election of officers.

was up to the Grand Secretary and could be imple-

Attendees can anticipate a streamlined morning agenda that is much lighter on ceremony and weighted towards getting down to business. Lodge representatives can look for an abbreviated introduction process for representatives from various Masonic organizations and youth groups.

mented at his pleasure, recommended a new registration and voting system for the delegates to our Grand Lodge. The purpose of such a system is: a) To obtain higher accuracy in recording of members in attendance continued on page 9 The Voice of Freemasonry

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A FUTURE WORTHY OF OUR GRAND LODGE

A Future Worthy of Our Grand Lodge In 1811, the Society of Freemasons organized its presence in the capital of the United States by establishing our Grand Lodge. In as little as four years from now, precisely in 2011, we the Freemasons of today will face an impressive milestone – the bicentennial of the Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of Washington, DC! What does a bicentennial mean? What implications does it have on us today? What future will it bring?

Much was accomplished over the past two hundred years. In spite of difficulties at times, our Grand Lodge has had its moments of glory. It is therefore our duty to preserve that rich legacy and to carefully build on it.

An essential part of our bicentennial, therefore, will be to celebrate that history and share it with the general public as much as possible. But there is another part to the bicentennial which must focus on our vision of the future of our Grand Lodge. While being the custodians of our Grand Lodge’s past, we are also the architects of its future. What will Masonic historians write about our generation fifty years from now? How will history judge our actions of today?

To help us answer these questions, we must do some introspective work, reflect on our strengths and weaknesses, and develop a vision worthy of this Grand Lodge.

Akram R. Elias,

DGM

The external mission consists of engaging one’s surroundings and environment outside the Lodge in order to help build a better humanity. Community outreach, true charity, and civic involvement are essential ingredients to making a difference in the world in which we live.

Our Internal Mission: The Lodge Let us compare the Lodge to a three legged stool – remove one leg, and the stool falls; have one shorter than the other two, and the stool is unstable. Indeed, the Lodge is supported by three pillars – Beauty, Strength and Wisdom.

“While being the

custodians of our Grand

Beauty

The source of beauty in a Lodge is our Sacred Art – the Ritual. The delivery and assimilation of the ritual are the two factors that determine the degree of beauty within a Lodge. How does a Lodge perform its ritual? What decorum does it have? What ambiance has it created? What Masonic education programs has it instituted to assist the initiates in digging deeper into the meaning of the ritual? What mentoring practices are in place? It is by answering these questions first, determining what needs to be done next, and enacting concrete measures that meet those needs, that we become better prepared to embrace our bicentennial.

Lodge’s past, we are

also the architects of its future.”

Who Are We? Let us first and foremost establish who we are. We are Free Builders – Free to think, dream and plan of building better men and a better humanity. In other words, we have a dual mission – internal and external. The internal mission consists of having each initiate in our Society develop the knowledge and skills that enable him to build his temple within in order to become a better man. This is done within the confines of the Lodge and with the assistance of fellow Freemasons. The Lodge’s beauty, strength and wise actions are therefore essential to the initiate’s temple building efforts.

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Strength The Lodge’s strength lies in the degree of its professional management. How effective are the Lodge’s meetings? How efficient is the Lodge’s internal communication system? What opportunities for fellowship and bonding does the Lodge have in place? What is the level of engagement by the members of the Lodge?

What about the esprit de corps among the officers of the Lodge? How well are the assets of the Lodge managed? Is the Lodge meeting its obligations to “relief” and the assistance of widows and orphans? It is by answering questions like these and adopting a blueprint

A FUTURE WORTHY OF OUR GRAND LODGE

for professional management and leadership that we guarantee a degree of strength worthy of our celebration.

Wisdom The degree of wisdom depends most heavily on the quality of the Lodge’s leadership and its ability to make decisions today that contribute to the long term building prospects of the Lodge. What long term building plans are on the Lodge’s trestle board? Is every Master simply doing his own thing or is he building one important section of a larger structure that has the long term commitment of the Lodge? What about the long term financial security and prosperity of the Lodge? Is the dues structure adequate? Will the Lodge be in a position, fifty years from now, to meet its “relief” obligations?

It is by planning for the future and building consensus along the way that a Lodge displays wisdom in its actions. Are we ready to take on our bicentennial?

Our External Mission: The Community Being in the nation’s capital, our Grand Lodge is uniquely positioned to encourage Freemasons to engage at three different levels – locally, nationally, and globally.

Local Mission Our first and most important commitment is to our local community of Washington, DC. Almost all of our Lodges are engaged in some form of community service and/or charity. The key question that we must ask ourselves is, “can we do more, greater, and better?” To help us meet the challenge of our bicentennial, we need to answer the following questions and adopt actions that will take us where we need to be: - What strategy does the Lodge have in place to reach out to the residents of Washington, DC that can have an impact on its membership?

- Does the Lodge have a “public affairs” plan that can help it answer questions by the general public about Freemasonry in general and the Lodge in particular?

- What coordinated long term effort has the Lodge put in place to impact on education in the city? – [Since supporting public education is one of the most important duties of a Freemason.]

- Are city government and civic leaders aware of the Lodge’s contributions to the community?

National Mission Our location in the nation’s capital enables us to contribute in a limited yet important way to the growth, development and richness of our Society across the United States. What can we possibly do?

- Washington DC is visited annually by more than 15 million Americans attending professional conferences, touring cultural sites and enjoying the beautiful offerings and surroundings of our city. Are there types of activities that we can engage in or things that we can do that “expose” these visitors to Freemasonry?

- Can we think of initiatives similar to the “Initiated Eye” paintings exhibit that can contribute to this effort?

[The exhibit is currently on tour across the country.]

- Can we bring more exposure to the Congress of the United States and our national leaders? MWB Stewart Miner, our Grand Secretary Emeritus, traces the lack of focus by our national leaders on Freemasonry to the day when the Conference of Grand Masters of North America stopped holding its annual February meeting in Washington DC. Should we endeavor to convince the Conference of Grand Masters to meet here every four years, especially during general election years (2012, 2016, etc. – too late for 2008) at which national leaders and even Presidential candidates can make an appearance and speak?

In other words, should we renew our national commitment to Freemasonry and take the necessary actions by 2011 in order to re-position our Grand Lodge to play that role?

Global Mission As the capital of the United States of America, Washington DC is also a center of international relations, economic, political, and civic matters. Our Grand Lodge is therefore uniquely positioned in our country to offer Freemasons an opportunity to engage at the global level in ways that can truly make a difference in the world. Imagine the goodwill that can be generated

by Freemasons working together across the oceans on building bridges of mutual understanding and establishing exchanges that contribute to better relations among the peoples of the world!

What about the Grand Lodge?

The emphasis of everything so far has been primarily on the Lodges and what they can do to enable us to The Voice of Freemasonry

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A FUTURE WORTHY OF OUR GRAND LODGE

meet our bicentennial challenge. The reason is simple.

Lodges make Masons and Lodges provide the environment for the nurturing, growth and development of its members. Grand Lodges do not! The strength and effectiveness of a Grand Lodge depends most heavily on the strength and effectiveness of its constituent Lodges. What then is the role of the Grand Lodge in all of this?

Capacity Building The first and foremost obligation and duty of a Grand Lodge is to assist its member Lodges in their “capacity building” efforts. In other words, the Grand Lodge should institute developmental programs and training workshops that build the capabilities of Lodge officers and empower them to carry out their Lodges’ internal mission more effectively.

To that end, the Grand Lodge plans to organize the following: - Training workshops for Lodge office holders on December 15, 2007, to provide management training, useful tools and techniques early in the process before the holiday season.

Legislation and Governance The Grand Lodge plans to hold regular meetings with the Masters and Wardens of the constituent Lodges to discuss potential challenges and opportunities. The focus of these meetings will be on building consensus, identifying practical solutions, and developing recommendations for policy legislation that could be introduced at our Grand Lodge Communications. We have a duty and an obligation to think through important policy issues and draft the necessary legislation that will help us keep moving forward and achieve greater heights.

“Imagine the goodwill

that can be generated by Freemasons working

together across the oceans on building bridges of mutual understanding and establishing exchanges that contribute to better relations among the peoples

Strategic Partnerships The Grand Lodge will endeavor to build relationships with our local community that will strengthen the Lodges’ outreach efforts and enable them to better interact with various sectors of our community.

For example, the Grand Lodge has already started a dialogue with city government officials to identify ways through which our commitment to supporting public education in our city can be better fulfilled.

- The Grand Lodge School plans to go to each Lodge and assist a Lodge’s officer corps in the performance of their work, on their home turf, where they can all be together as a team and work closely with one another.

We are also exploring ways to effectively partner with local universities to provide interns on a regular basis that can help our Grand Lodge expand its services to our Lodges and in the process, expose more young people to our Fraternity.

- Instruction seminars will be held for those who wish to become proficient in degree conferrals and lecture renditions. Members of the Work and Lectures Committee will focus their energies on graduating new ritual experts in the various Lodges, not on conferring Degrees on behalf of Lodges.

- The Grand Lodge is also in the process of identifying opportunities for Freemasons to volunteer such that they can have an impact on their community and the Lodge’s membership.

- Masonic education seminars will be offered to the membership at large, and more especially to new members, on the esoteric and symbolic significance of each one of the three Degrees.

The Grand Lodge plans a number of activities aimed at raising the profile of Freemasonry nationally and globally.

of the world.”

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National and Global Outreach

A FUTURE WORTHY OF OUR GRAND LODGE

- The Grand Lodge will host the 9th World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges in Washington DC on May 7 – 10, 2008. For the first time ever, the leaders of Freemasonry from all over the Unites States, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia will meet in our nation’s capital under the theme of “Universal Fraternity in Action” to discuss ways and means for Freemasons to work together and make a difference in this world. Exciting activities are planned for that conference, including special tours of the Capitol and White House and a wreath laying ceremony at the World War II Memorial. A special reception, hosted by members of the Congress, will be held on the Hill in honor of the leaders of Freemasonry.

bring greater visibility to Freemasonry and increase our footprint in this city.

Destiny at our Doorstep Our Grand Lodge finds itself today at a major crossroads – with opportunity knocking like we have not seen in decades.

The increased public interest in Freemasonry is a blessing that comes with challenges that if not met can wither away. “Fortuna” is on our side, but we must rise to the challenge and meet our destiny face on. We must ready ourselves, our Lodges and our Grand Lodge for the next two hundred years. Freemasonry is a serious Society that has a very serious mission. We need serious leaders to construct a beautiful, strong, wise and lasting edifice.

“The increased public

interest in Freemasonry is

a blessing that comes with challenges that if not met can wither away.”

- The Grand Lodge is currently in the process of identifying opportunities for cornerstone laying that may

Looking Ahead to the Annual Communication continued from page 5

b) To properly identify those with voting privileges in Grand Lodge c) To eliminate the need for roll call votes in Grand Lodge d) To generally reduce time spent and increase efficiency and accuracy in the process of our deliberations and voting

he will be presented with a ballot as it is presently used in Grand Lodge.

During the meeting, when a vote on a motion is called for, those entitled to vote will hold up the card given to them for this purpose. For election, the ballots can be received at any time during the day by placing them in available receptacles set up for the purpose.

Promptly at 2:00 p.m. the Grand Master will call for

To achieve this aim, the Grand Secretary’s office,

the ballots to be removed from the Lodge room and

prior to the meeting, will prepare a record for each

the results of the election tallied and report back to

lodge, indicating its Master and Wardens and their

Grand Lodge. In the event of an additional ballot

proxies, and a list of their living Past Masters. A list of

being required, blank papers shall be made avail-

the elected officers of the Grand Lodge, Past Grand

able and then picked up by appointed tellers from all

Masters and Past Officers, who have a vote in Grand

those holding up their cards.

Lodge, will also be prepared.

This is an organized and easily workable system that will

A registration table, manned by the members of the

help save time and increase efficiency and accuracy.

Credentials Committee, will be set up and, before

There may well be a need for adjustments and some fine

entering the meeting, each brother will sign in if he is

tuning this system, as we go along, before it is perfected.

entitled to vote. This will replace the present card sys-

But here, like in most other areas of our activities, we rely

tem. A brother so registered will be given a card

on our brethren for cooperation and assistance through

which is distinctive in size or color. At the same time,

timely, positive and constructive advice.

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9

THE ESSENCE OF MASONRY

The Essence of Masonry It is a well-established custom that Freemasons come together purposefully on a regular basis. We do so for a number of reasons: (1) to socialize; (2) to review our fortunes; (3) to add or detract from our numbers; (4) on occasion, to select our leaders; and (5) always, to perfect our plans, short and long range, in order to cope with the challenges that we may or may not be able to correctly identify.

Over the years I have given much thought to the role that Freemasonry has played, not only in my personal life, but more importantly, in the evolution of the society in which we live. And being as profoundly pro-Masonry in outlook as I am, I grieve over the obviously declining influence that is exercised, particularly in this country, by those who call themselves Freemasons. Are moral and spiritual values no longer in demand, or are we simply failing in our promotional efforts?

Since my retirement from full time employment in Freemasonry, I have had the opportunity to focus attention on the fortunes of the Craft. And as I try to understand what I see and what I read, my mind goes back to the night when I was initiated. On that occasion I realized that I had reached a turning point in my life, and while I could not at that time appreciate where Masonry would take me, I was convinced that my life, from that moment on, would never again be the same.

As I frequently contemplate my initiation into the fraternity, my mind inevitably goes back to a prayer that was recited on that occasion by my conductor. He reminded me, in letter perfect ritual, to “behold how good and how pleasant it was for brethren to dwell together in unity.” While I may not have been able at that time to fully appreciate the import of those words, I have, in the years that have since transpired, learned to appreciate that these words, written by the Psalmist centuries ago, accurately proclaim the essence of Masonry — what it has been, is now, and, hopefully, what it will be in the future.

Stewart W. Miner, P.G.M., Grand Secretary Emeritus

Appreciation of the potential of unity is not restricted to Masons alone, however, for the concept has commanded the attention of men of stature throughout history. Lincoln, for example, proclaimed that a house divided against it cannot stand. Marcus Aurelius, many centuries earlier, observed astutely that men are made for cooperation, “like feet, like hands,” making action against one another “contrary to nature.” I particularly like Etienne Senacour’s discerning observation that union, when perfect, can do everything.

Underlying these and other like observations pertaining to the concept of unity is a basic but seldom recognized truth — that often it is out of a lack of unity that unity evolves. This is well illustrated in Masonry by the formation of the United Grand Lodge of England, the Mother Grand Lodge of the world, an 1813 action which settled what had been a very contentious matter and united English Masons who had been seriously divided for the better part of a century.

Thus our English forefathers, perhaps without intent, not only established Masonic harmony in their country, but by voluntary and conciliatory action, they also created the foundation upon which the parameters of Masonry were subsequently established worldwide.

That act of unification became, in reality, the fundamental law of the Craft, a merging agreement whereby Masons, from that time on, committed themselves to the cause of cooperation.

The creation of unity out of disunity is not confined to Masonry alone, however, as any cursory review of the pages of history will attest. Our forefathers established this nation in consequence of dissatisfaction with the political environment in which they lived. It was also dissatisfaction with the status quo that led to the establishment of such organizations as the League of Nations; the successor to that organization, the United Nations; the European Union, NATO, continued on page 26

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M A S O N I C FA M I LY D AY O F T H A N K S G I V I N G

Masonic Family Day of Thanksgiving

Bilal M. Raschid, PM, Assistant Grand Chaplain, Chairman, Masonic Day of Thanksgiving Committee

The annual Masonic Family Day of Thanksgiving was celebrated this year in the beautiful surroundings of our Scottish Rite Center of the Valley of Washington, Orient of the District of Columbia, on Sunday, June 3, 2007.

This very special event is held each year under a Proclamation made by our Grand Master. The proclamation reminds us of the blessings of freedom of life, in a society with privileges of freedom of thought and action, and the opportunity to promote and practice Brotherhood among men we so enjoy and cherish. It further reminds us that as we profess a belief in the ever presence of the Supreme Architect of the universe, and our reliance on His great and holy presence for guidance in our daily lives, we must, therefore, unite and publicly display our gratitude and thanksgiving for His manifold blessings and mercies.

The Service commenced with the processional entry of the Grand Lodge officers, the Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star officers, and the heads and officers of the appendant bodies of our fraternity in the District of Columbia, led by our Grand Marshal, W. Bro. James Feezell, PM and with the accompaniment of the beautiful sounds of processional music titled Te Deum, a composition by Charpentier. It was played by our Grand Organist, W. Bro. Christopher Taylor, Master of Sojourner Kilwinning Lodge No. 1798, who had earlier been playing a prelude.

The chairman for the event, Assistant Grand Chaplain, W. Bro. Bilal Raschid, PM, welcomed and thanked the Brothers and their families for their attendance; and commented that the great attendance was a testimony of our devotion to the Creator, and must be pleasing to Him.

Power of Love. His message is published and will follow this writing in this issue of The Voice of Freemasonry.

The readings and messages were interspersed with beautiful music and songs provided by the Lincoln Middle School choir, under the direction of Mr. Vincent Pope. The school is in close proximity of the D.C. Scottish Rite Center, and has at its head W. Bro. Francis Nicol, PM, to whom the Committee is thankful.

A musical piece performed by Brother Gregory Martin, the Senior Warden of Albert Pike Lodge No. 33, was also much appreciated. The piece was composed by him, and is titled Meditations on the Spirit of Mankind. Brother Gregory Martin was on the piano, and accompanied by a former colleague, Ms. Alison Candela, on the violin.

Brief messages were also given by Jane Francis Grolig, Worthy Grand Matron and W. Bro. Ralph Connolly, PM, Worthy Grand Patron, of the Order of the Eastern Star. The heartwarming service of thanks concluded appropriately with a Benediction given by the Grand Chaplain of the Order of the Eastern Star, Marjorie J. Bennett.

The gathering of family, friends and brethren then retired to the banquet room to partake of delicious catered refreshments, to conclude a beautiful and smoothly conducted day of thanksgiving to the Great Architect of the Universe, for His many blessings and mercies.

The Invocation was given by the Grand Chaplain, the Rev. and Bro. David Balcom. He was followed in a smooth and quick succession by the Deputy and Assistant Grand Chaplains, W. Bros. Walter Simon, Richard Weaver and Bilal Raschid, PMs, who read appropriate chapters and verses from the Holy Bible’s Old and New Testament and the Holy Quran, in keeping with the main theme of the Rev. Michael Marrett’s Thanksgiving message on the topic of The The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE POWER OF LOVE

The Power of Love The Rev. Canon Michael M. Marrett, Fiat Lux Lodge No. 1717

Editors Note: This meditation was delivered on Sunday, June 3, 2007 at the Masonic Family Day of Thanksgiving Service of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, at the Scottish Rite Center, Washington, DC

May the Words of my Lips and the Meditations of our Hearts be acceptable in Thy sight, Oh God, our Strength and our Redeemer. Amen Today, we meet as members of one of the truly great international organizations in the world - the Freemasons. Accompanied by members of our families, invited guests and friends, we gather to thank Almighty God for His countless Blessings to us in the past, and to plead for their continuity in the present and future years ahead.

when they are uprooted from their homes and forced to flee.

There is a crisis in civilization which can only be countered by a new civilization of LOVE, founded on the universal values of peace, justice and liberty.

There are many who claim that religion is part of the problem - blocking humanity's way to peace and prosperity. It is our duty as religious people to demonstrate that this is not the case.

Oh God, our Help in ages past,

“We must show how

Our Hope for years to come,

religious belief inspires

Be Thou our guide while life shall last

The use of religion to support violence is an abuse of religion. Religion and peace go together. It is a blatant contradiction to wage war in the name of religion. The time is NOW for religious leaders to show that they are pledged to promote peace. We must show how religious belief inspires peace, promotes justice, and upholds liberty.

peace, promotes justice,

And our eternal home.

and upholds liberty.”

Our Mediation today is entitled - The Power of Love.

From the First Letter of Paul to the church in Corinth, Chapter 13 and verse 13 we read these words: And now abideth Faith, Hope, Love, these three, but the greatest of these is LOVE.

As we survey the situation of humanity, we see great technological advances. However, these are not accompanied by similarly great spiritual and moral progress. We see also, a great gap between the rich and the poor - at the level of individuals and nations.

We also read of the many conflicts continually breaking out around the world - wars between nations. Wars that linger like festering sores and cry out for healing that never seem to come. Eventually, it is the weakest who suffer most, especially The Voice of Freemasonry

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Those of us who are Christians believe that there is HOPE, and that this HOPE is a gift of the Holy Spirit who calls us to widen our horizons, to look beyond our own personal needs, to the unity of the whole human family.

What is known to us as the Golden Rule — has existed in many religions for thousand of years, and should be the norm for all areas of life - for families, communities, races, nations and religions. Here are samples from five of the major religions: From the UDANA VARGA of Buddhism: “Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.”

THE POWER OF LOVE

From MATTHEW’S GOSPEL of Christianity: “All things whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do even so to them.”

From MAHABHARATA of Hinduism: “This is the sum of duty: Do naught unto others which would cause you pain if done to you.”

A reading from the SUNNAH of Islam: “No one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself.”

Finally, the TALMUD of Judaism: "What is hateful to you, do not to your fellow man.

This is the Law: All the rest is commentary.”

And now abideth Faith, Hope, Love, these three but, the greatest of these is LOVE - the amazing truth is that LOVE is possible in spite of the differences that exist among the religions. These differences are real and will not go away. We should not attempt to ignore them and pretend that all religions are homogeneous, THEY ARE NOT. However, the people who practice these religions do share a common language of love and compassion.

We must look for ways of growing in Love. One way may be through the study of a different religion — not a study that simply looks for patterns and archetypes, but a study that seeks to penetrate the heart of each tradition with empathy.

There should be a desire to understand (insofar as is possible) how the world is seen through the eyes of that tradition.

We should learn to love as John of the Cross (a Christian Mystic) tells us: “by putting love where there is no love, by being loving, even when others are not loving, by seeking to understand, even when others do not understand.”

“By doing this we will become a home for the stranger, a balm to the suffering, a tower of strength for the fugitive. We will be eyes to the blind and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring.

An ornament to the countenance of truth. A crown to the brow of fidelity. A pillar of the temple of righteousness. A breath of life to the body of mankind.

An ensign of the hosts of justice. A luminary above the horizon of virtue. A dew to the soil of the human heart. An ark on the ocean of knowledge. A gem on the diadem of wisdom.

A shining light in the firmament of your generation and a fruit upon the tree of humanity.”

“On every continent people have leaned the language of love-whether from

On every continent people have learned the language of love — whether from the arms of a mother, or the gentle wisdom of grand parents, or the companionship of a friend. It should come as no surprise to learn of the beautiful words of love and compassion that emerge from the different traditions - from the Karuna of the Buddhists to the Agape taught by Jesus. There is a common recognition that compassion, mercy and loving kindness are the qualities we wish to imitate as humans reaching towards transcendence.

the arms of a mother,

or the gentle wisdom of grand parents, or the

companionship of a friend.”

This dialogue of LOVE is the first step needed for what has been envisioned as "the Civilization of Love." Love gives new eyes. Let us love so that we may have new eyes. Eyes that see into the hearts of our brothers and sisters with love.

Eyes that can see in the future of a civilization of love.

And now abideth Faith, Hope, Love, these three, but, the greatest of these is LOVE. Amen

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Universal Brotherhood Celebration 2007 Universal Lodge A weekend was set aside by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia to showcase Universal Brotherhood at its best. That weekend started with the traditional Universal Lodge meeting on Friday June 8, 2007 at the Scottish Rite Center. Officers from the various lodges in the jurisdiction joined together to highlight some of the ideals of Freemasonry as envisioned in our nation’s capital.

Proficiency of the ritual work was put to the test.

Officers of the constituent lodges of the Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C., known for its diversity as manifested by the many multi-lingual lodges, (English, German, Persian, Spanish, French, Italian, Armenian, Turkish and Azeri), in their distinctive aprons and regalia, occupied the stations and places, and opening and closing the Universal Lodge in the 1st Degree, put on a performance worthy of much praise. It was breath taking to see a Brother speaking in one language and to be answered by another Brother in another language.

Both opening and closing of the Lodge were done with such perfection that our visiting Brethren from the United States, France, Italy, Portugal, South America, and as far away as Gabon, West Africa, were in awe and much inspired by what was unfolding before them; and their response was a

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George S. Nicol,

PM, Worshipful Master Albert Pike Lodge No. 33

resounding applause at the conclusion of both the opening and closing, reaffirming and acknowledging not only the ritualistic excellence, but more especially, the fact that Freemasons, all around the world, regardless of their tongue, all speak the same language.

All this could not have been accomplished without the hard work and dedication of RWB Armen Simonian, chairman of the organizing committee, and RWB Sheldon Rappeport, Grand Lecturer. But great credit must also go to our Grand Master, MWB Robert Heyat, who had the vision, almost two decades ago, to lay the foundation for the creation of universal lodges within the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, and highlight this achievement with the annual Universal Brotherhood Celebration.

The Twinning Ceremony and the Miracle of Freemasonry The twinning ceremony of La France Lodge No. 93, Washington, D.C., USA with Tolerance Lodge No. 2, Libreville, Gabon took place on the evening of June 8th and lasted twenty minutes. Yet, this is something I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life.

Twenty of our brothers from Gabon made the trip a very long trip - for this momentous occasion. The plane ride alone takes two days, with a stopover in Paris. It’s a very expensive trip too. The fact that so many decided to embark on such an expidition was incredible to me at first. But when asked, our brethren from Gabon all pretty much said the same thing. It was perhaps best expressed in the brief response to my question by Worshipful Brother Martin Moussavou, Master of Tolerance Lodge No. 2: “Nous ne faisons que notre devoir, et ca nous grand plaisir de pouvoir enfin rencontrer nos freres” (We are only doing our duty and it is a true pleasure to finally meet our brethren). I now realize that in one short sentence he summarized the essence of Freemasonry: Duty and Fraternity.

There were three main events that made this twinning a success. The first was a tour of the Masonic buildings of our nation’s capital organized, offered, and narrated by our very own Deputy Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Akram Elias. We visited the House of the Temple on 16th street, LaFayette Park, the Capitol, as well as the Washington and Jefferson Memorials. The tour was a huge success, thanks to the beauty and significance of the buildings visited and the quasiencyclopedic knowledge of Brother Akram on the subject of Masonic history. Thank you, Right Worshipful Sir, for an unforgettable experience.

Pierre Verroye, Worshipful Master La France Lodge No. 93

tongue? So many languages, representing so well the diversity of our Craft, yet made one by our ritual. What better way to celebrate Universal Brotherhood, and set the stage for the twinning ceremony, which I will never forget.

Who could ask for a better setting? Who could expect a better or more dignified audience, what with all the past and current Masters, as well as representatives of so many Grand Lodges, both national and international? Who was not touched by the inspired lecture from Worshipful Brother Martin Moussavou on what a twinning really means? This was a fitting end to a very inspiring event.

La France No 93 respectfully presented Tolerance Lodge No. 2 a flag of the United States and the replica of George Washington Gavel. And Tolerance No. 2 showered us with beautiful works of art from Gabon. What an experience! Thank you, thank you, thank you Most Worshipful Brother Robert Heyat for allowing the twinning ceremony to take place during the Universal Brotherhood Celebration. Thanks again to Right Worshipful Brother Akram for conducting the twinning ceremony and expertly translating the proceedings. La France No 93 and Tolerance No. 2, now twinned for life, thank the Grand Lodge for the experience of a lifetime.

The second was the solemn and beautiful ceremony that took place the evening of the 8th.

Who wasn’t impressed by the nearly flawless opening and closing of the lodge with everyone speaking in their mother The Voice of Freemasonry

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The third event was the banquet at Almas Shrine Center. What an evening! Great food, great company, and fantastic entertainment! But I know that like everyone who attended, there is one moment that will stay with me forever: the acceptance speech by Brother John Kriesel, upon being awarded the Medal of Freedom! Our brethren from Gabon will never forget it. Nor will I. I and other brethren from La France No 93 forged enduring friendships during that weekend. I only wish Gabon was closer. But we will visit. We will make this twinning a lasting experience. And for lodges that are considering a twinning, allow me to

be candid. Is it a lot of work? Absolutely! Were there times when my brethren and I thought it would be an unmitigated disaster? Yes. Was it worth it? YOU BET! And to that effect, I want to recognize Right Worshipful Brothers Guy Masquefa, Teko Foly, and Worshipful Brother Walter Hoenes, Assistant to the Grand Secretary, for their invaluable assistance in arranging the logistics. None of this would have been possible without their help and dedication. Thanks to this Twinning, I have made lifelong friends in only five short days. I now know that I experienced what some have termed the miracle of Freemasonry.

World Conference “Universal Fraternity in Action�

NINTH WORLD CONFERENCE OF MASONIC GRAND LODGES May 8th & 9th, 2008 Conference Sessions : I. Standing Up to Darkness II. Masonic Integrity III. Global Fraternal Networking IV. Special Masonic Program And following the conference,the Grand Lodge of Washington, DC is pleased to present : Universal Brotherhood Celebration, May 10th For registration visit:

www.glworldconference.org

For more information contact:

Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C. 5428 MacArthur Blvd, NW Washington, D.C., 20016 202-686-1811 (phone), 202-696-2759 (fax) grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org

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The Table Lodge: In Praise of Diplomacy

Joseph S. Crociata, JGD

“Dip-lo`-ma-cy – n. –the patriotic art of lying for one’s

advance of Freemasonry within the District of Colum-

country.”

bia? Do they have any real effect upon the advance of “Freemasonry Universal:” that concept which is at

Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary, 1911

the very heart of our annual celebration of Universal

Especially in the context of the American culture, diplomacy in general and diplomats in particular have never been held in particularly high esteem.

Even before the birth of our nation, no less a civic and Masonic personage than Bro. Benjamin Franklin spoke of the diplomat’s trade with derision, and after all, why not?

The very root of the word (from the

Greek) means “two faced:” an implicit acknowledgement of the diplomat’s duty to represent his government with a face that is only true to its positions and interests while reporting to his government without a similar façade of “comforting illusion and cozy half-truth.”

Brotherhood?

This year, I was honored to serve as Toastmaster for a second year at the Table Lodge held during the Universal Brotherhood Weekend on June 8th. For over two decades, I have been attending and conducting Table Lodges in several Grand Jurisdictions, and have come to an appreciation of the proceeding as one of the highest expressions of Masonic good will and fellowship. Last year, I reported to you on the origins and traditions of the Table Lodge as a Masonic art form. (For those who have yet to learn of or appreciate the exquisitely Masonic form of the Table Proceeding, I refer you to The Voice of Freema-

Freemasons are no less prone to an equally harsh

sonry, Vol. 22, No. 2.) More than any other, this year’s

judgment upon its diplomats within the Craft. How

Table Lodge at the Universal Brotherhood Celebra-

often we hear some critical note being made of the

tion struck me as a demonstration of the unique nature of the ceremony as it is performed in this “first city of the world,” and its correspondence to the diplomatic dinners that are celebrated in its embassies and halls of government with such regularity.

The proceeding was opened with MW Bro. Robert B. Heyat in the East, and RW Kwame Acquaah, SGW, and RW Paul D. Gleason, JGW served their Grand Master as the Wardens on the sprigs of the West and South. The conduct of the proceeding

was

changed

to

accommodate the Universal message of the celebration, with the portion of the Grand Lodge budget that is devoted to officers’ travel and attendance at Grand functions in other Grand Jurisdictions here and abroad.

Can

such expenditures serve any real purpose in the

customary toast to the Lodge being changed to laud the “Universal Brotherhood Lodge” (which opened and closed in the various languages of those present that evening), and the toast to the Worshipful Master being changed to commemorate the twinning of our

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own LaFrance Lodge No. 93 with Tolerance Lodge

brought to the Grand East. MW Brother Mendoza

No. 2 of Gabon, and their Masters. The respective

spoke ably and with the assistance of W Brother

Worshipful Masters of the twinned lodges, W. Pierre

Richard J. Bautista serving as interpreter.

Verroye and W. Martin Moussavou, were called upon

Master Mendoza traveled to us from a country whose

to give responses to the toast, and both responded

Freemasonry finds a strong foundation within Scot-

with messages of gratitude for the warm relations

tish Rite traditions, and he selected a message that

they share across the Atlantic, as well as with

resounded in the personal warmth and brotherhood between himself and our

pledges of the continuation of their relationship into the future.

The remaining toasts were given as tradition dictates, but the roster of proposers and responders showed the uniquely “official” nature of the proceeding, with toasts given by or on behalf of RW Jesse Villarreal, SGD, RW

“...all faithful Masons of good will (should) take up the cause

Acquaah,

SGW.

of Universal Brotherhood, by a

cited their long-standing dedication to brotherhood that reached beyond creeds and borders. RW

Lodge to MW Brother Heyat,

principles so fervently incul-

remarks of his guest from

cated through our ritual and practice.”

Grand Master echoed the South America, and called for recognition of the significance of the personal ties that bind Masons throughout the world, as a hallmark

- MWB Gustavo Raffi, Grand Master

of the universal brotherhood

Grand Orient of Italy

that we were celebrating that evening.

response to the toast to the Universal Lodge which

MW Steven R. Johnson spoke as the Past Grand

sounded a challenge to us and those who follow, to

Master of the five-member delegation of the Grand

be a force for understanding and peace throughout

Lodge of Minnesota.

the world.

Grand Lodge Medal of Freedom honoree Bro. John

But it was through the responses to the traditional toast to our Masonic Visitors that the true power of Masonic diplomacy was felt.

RW Jerome Ngoua

Bekale, Assistant Grand Master and Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Gabon, spoke to everyone present with an able interpretation by RW Teko Foly, SGS. His words of thanks to our own Grand Master were heartfelt and profound, as were the sentiments that he expressed for the continuation of the bonds between his Grand Lodge and our own, begun that

That delegation included

Kriesel, who so distinguished himself in his service to the nation in Iraq, that he was made a Mason at Sight while a patient at Walter Reed Army Medical Center by our own Grand Master, on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota. MW Brother Johnson’s remarks struck a solemn note, acknowledging the struggle in which Bro. Kriesel received his grievous wounds, but calling upon all Masons to work toward the resolution of conflict through our unique ability to generate a foundation for understanding across the globe.

evening in the twinning of two of our Lodges. The

The final Grand Visitors’ remarks made a fitting finale

response of our own Grand Master to RW Brother

to those who had gone before. MW Bro. Gustavo

Ngoua Bekale took up the theme, and called for

Raffi, Grand Master of the Grand Orient of Italy gave

expansion of the bonds of fraternity between all the

the “keynote” speech on behalf of the visiting

Grand Lodges of North America with those of Africa.

brethren, and was assisted (in interpretation) by W

MW Ruben Dario Ceballos Mendoza, Grand Master of Masons of the Grand Lodge of Columbia, was

18

entation of an award and

Again, the response of our

Akram R. Elias, DGM presented a

The Voice of Freemasonry

off his remarks with the pres-

rigorous application of those

whose message lauding the Craft and the Memory of its Founders

MW

Brother Mendoza capped

which was warmly received.

Responses were heard from MW George R. Adams, PGM 1993,

own Grand Master.

medallion from his Grand

Paul D. Gleason, JGW, and RW Kwame

Grand

Brother Clark Misul, Master of Italia Lodge No. 2001.

The esteemed MW Brother Raffi bears a heavy responsibility in support of the cause of Freemasonry

in his native land. Not only does he contend with a

be forgotten. He rededicated our Grand Lodge to its

civil system that is often openly hostile to the princi-

unique role in the world, and called upon us to fulfill

ples of the Fraternity, but also with Masons from other

its promise, by making Washington, D.C. a true

parts of the world who would seek to undercut his

Masonic crossroads, where all Masons can come

authority to defend those principles, wherever under

together to pledge their support for the principles of

attack. (Men of principle are often an inconvenience

the Craft.

to those whose principles are subject to compromise.) MW Brother Raffi’s comments addressed the difficulties faced by a civilization under siege, and

“Diplomacy?” Perhaps. But as Grand Tyler W Bro. Gerhard Meinzer proposed the final “Tyler’s Toast” and the brothers joined hands

called upon all faithful Masons of good will to take up the cause of Universal Brotherhood, by a rigorous application of those principles so fervently inculcated through our ritual and practice.

“ MWBro. Heyat rededicated our Grand Lodge to its unique

to sing “Auld Lang Syne,” our Grand Lodge’s role in building international bridges to understanding and fraternity was clear. Our own Grand Master’s

role in the world, and called

unique abilities to serve that noble purpose were equally

The Grand Master’s response was given as much to the visitors as to the ritual toast to his health and prosperity, which was proposed by W. Bro. John Vergalla, Secretary of our hosts for the evening, the Scottish Rite Valley of the District of

upon us to fulfill its promise,

to be well served by the

by making Washington, D.C. a

evening’s

true Masonic crossroads, where

And, one final note: For all his

Masonic

“diplo-

mats.”

derision of the trade of diplo-

all Masons can come together

macy, Bro. Benjamin Franklin

to pledge their support for the

lance.

Columbia. MW Brother Heyat acknowledged the personal

evident. And the Craft proved

kindness of each of his visitors, not only on his own behalf, but as our Masonic “head of state.”

principles of the Craft.”

His remarks (some of which are reported above) sounded assurances to all of our visitors and to our own Brothers present that the messages of universal fraternity and a brotherhood

was its practitioner par excelIt was by his brilliant

exercise of the diplomatic arts that he became, more than any other, the architect of the Treaty of Paris, that keystone

to the effort that created a Nation that still stands for the freedoms that guarantee civil rights to all, and fraternal rights to the Craft.

that would ever cross national boundaries would not

We Can Make It Happen

· · · · ·

To build on the foundations of our forefathers To hold fast to our principles and preserve our landmarks To foster fraternity of love, tolerance and understanding amongst all men To encourage our members to embrace change and accept the challenges of tomorrow And, above all, to enjoy the wonderful world called Freemasonry.

Together, working as a team, and with a shared vision – we can make it happen!

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National Masonic Trail On Saturday June 9, 2007 the D.C. Grand Lodge in cooperation with the American VolksSports Association (AVA) and the Shrine Clowns conducted the first ever National Masonic Trail Walk. The event drew participants from the local Masonic community and some Masonic participants coming from as far away as Indiana, Florida, and New Jersey to join in the historic event. The 7 mile / 12km course began and ended at Almas Temple Shrine Center, downtown Washington, D.C. Volksmarchers began queuing up for registration at 7am for an 8am start time. Between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. over 150 registered walkers took to the course. Some of the more serious AVA members walked the course both ways.

All walkers were treated to great June weather. The National Masonic Trail (NMT) course was approved by the US Park service and the DC government and featured some of the most prominent edifices in our city. The four check points included The White House, The U.S. Capitol, the Jefferson and the Lincoln Memorials. The course took walkers past a statue of Benjamin Franklin, printer, inventor and a Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania. Walking past the Mall, walkers viewed one of the greatest collections of American historic treasures, the Smithsonian Institute, named for John Smithson, a Mason. Smithson, a successful British chemist contributed $500,000 in gold sovereigns to a country he never visited but admired.

Pierre Verroye, Worshipful Master La France Lodge No. 93

mark document. Each Masonic stone was adorned with a NMT logo on a sash.

Back at Almas, the Shrine Clowns were hosting the Klownfest featuring bratwurst, sauerkraut, beer, and clown juice. All participants who completed the course received the National Masonic Trail pin designed by our brother Roman Volsky, PM. Volksmarchers were also able to purchase Masonic gear and the special patch featuring a Shrine Clown holding a child in braces, symbolizing the founding goal of their hospitals to treat children with polio. The Shrine of North America’s philanthropy is their 22 children hospitals which have helped over 700,000 children since 1921. The Shrine funds these medical and research facilities at the cost of over $2 million a day. Shrine hospitals treat all children up to the age of 18 for spinal injuries, spine related birth defects, and burns. www.shrinershq.org/Hospitals I would like to thank our Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Robert Heyat for allowing me to share his vision and serve on the Community Outreach Committee, and Right Worshipful Brother Akram Elias, our Deputy Grand Master for his wisdom and guidance in putting the walk together; and finally Mr. Tim Miner, of the American VolksSports Association Club for his

All of these structures contain Masonic influence and their history was explained by Masonic lecturers. Our presenters included Masonic brothers dressed as Ben Franklin, two Uncle Sams, Shrine Divan members, and a Masonic line officer. In addition, each check point was hosted by a Shrine Mason Clown making balloon sculptures for the children. Shrine Clowns drew the attention of thousands of tourist visiting our city, including some of the 60,000 Girl Scouts in town celebrating their 95th anniversary.

Tour buses sporting a Masonic logo provided transportation to attendees, who could not walk the course or wanted to attend the Masonic wreath laying ceremony at the memorial to the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. The 3:00 p.m. ceremony was attended by the Grand Master and other dignitaries honoring the nine signers who were Masons. The little known memorial features an inscribed stone for each of the 56 men who risked their lives by signing the landThe Voice of Freemasonry

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tireless energy and making everything happen as it was planned.

In the coming weeks, we will begin our planning process for next year’s NMT walk. I invite you to join us to bring awareness to our Craft. Visit our web site designed and skillfully maintained by our Grand Marshal, Worshipful Brother Jim Feezell: www.masonictrail.org .

Universal Brotherhood Banquet

James T. Feezell, PM, Grand Marshal

Universal Brotherhood Celebration 2007, culminated

Memorial by the odd congregation of men in busi-

with a formal banquet on Saturday, June 9, at Almas

ness attire and walking gear, clowns, Uncle Sam,

Shrine Center. Freemasons and their guests from five

and Benjamin Franklin. Bro. Franklin took this oppor-

continents gathered to enjoy a final dinner before

tunity to enlighten the visitors about the contributions

crossing the globe, once more, to return to their

of Freemasons to American Independence.

homes.

Beginning around 6:30 PM, Brothers and guests

Earlier this day, the Brethren, many with their ladies,

returned to Almas Shrine in costumes more suited for

had toured some of the Masonic landmarks of the

the evening’s activities.

nation’s capital city on the National Masonic Trail.

decked out in dinner jackets and black tie.

The Brothers arrived The

ladies, dressed to the nines, were all beautiful and elegant.

After refreshments and time to mingle, the Brothers and guests sat for dinner and the evening’s program.

The program opened with an invocation by Rev. Bro. Todd Kissam of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15.

Bro. John Kriesel called for the Marine Corps Color Guard to display the flag of the United States. W. Bro. Pablo J. Cordova, Master of Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92, led the gathering in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Some of the Brothers, Nobles of Almas Shrine in full

Dinner was an exceptional surf and turf, including

clown costume, had entertained walkers and other

tasty fresh Maryland crab cakes and beef sirloin.

tourists. Later in the afternoon, the Grand Master, accompanied by his Deputy, officers of the Grand Lodge, and visiting Grand Lodge officers from Virginia and Minnesota, assembled the Craft, families, and guests at the Memorial to the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. The Memorial, located in Constitution Gardens, on the banks of the reflecting pool near the corner of Constitution Avenue and 19th St., NW is dedicated to the fifty-six men who signed the Declaration on July 4, 1776. Among these men were nine Freemasons: William Ellery of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, John Hancock and Robert Treat Paine

While dinner was served, R.W. Bro. Akram R. Elias,

of Massachusetts,

Joseph Hewes and William

Deputy Grand Master, took the stage and introduced

Hooper of North Carolina, Richard Stockton of New

some of the visiting Brothers. The list read like a

Jersey, George Walton of Georgia, and William Whip-

Who’s Who of Freemasonry around the world. Grand

ple of New Hampshire. The Grand Master deposited

Lodge officers from Virginia and Minnesota, as well

a wreath in the shape of a square and compass at the

as Mexico, Columbia, France, Italy, Portugal, Arme-

memorial. During the photo session that followed the

nia, and Gabon, had come to participate in the

wreath laying, several tourists were attracted to the

Universal Brotherhood Celebration.

The Voice of Freemasonry

21

Two delightful presentations comprised the entertain-

her activities over the past year and also thanked the

ment program. First, W. Bro. Cordova again came to

Brethren for the scholarship award which had, in part, permitted her to participate in the school and community activities.

The highlight of the evening, however, may have been the presentation of the Medal of Freedom award. M.W. Bro. Robert B. Heyat, Grand Master, presented this award to Bro. John Kriesel of Minnesota. Bro. Kriesel is an infantry sergeant of the

the stage, this time with his lovely niece, Patricia Reyes, a rising senior at George Mason University, to perform the Marinera, the national dance of Peru.

The charismatic duo mesmerized the audience with their complex choreography and beautiful costumes.

The Washington Armenian Folk Music Ensemble, directed by Bro. Socrates Boyajian, of Hayastan Lodge No. 94, performed the second entertainment feature. The group, comprised of three female vocalists, recorder, kanoon, a 72-string lap-harp , and Bro. Boyajian on violin, performed three charming songs: Evening Breeze, The Girl in the Fields, and The Shy

Minnesota National Guard and was wounded in

Girl. Both of the entertainment presentations were

December 2006, in Fallujah while deployed for Oper-

captivating and, judging from their enthusiastic

ation Iraqi Freedom.

applause, very well-received by the Brothers and

request of the Grand Master of Minnesota, made

guests.

Bro. Kriesel a Mason at Sight in a special ceremony

The evening also featured the presentation of awards and recognition of scholarship recipients.

W. Bro.

William F. Harvey, President of the Masonic Foundation of the District of Columbia, and W. Bro. Timothy R. Bennett, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Scholarship Committee, introduced Mses. Brown, Jones, and White, three of the ten Foundation scholarship recipients.

These awardees each thanked the

Brethren for their assistance.

Hope Rollins, a recipient of the Stewart W. Miner Scholarship to American University, was also introduced. Ms. Rollins studies Performing Arts at AU and described to the Brothers and guests some of

The Voice of Freemasonry

22

The Grand Master, at the

on April 4, 2007. (See Voice of Freemasonry, Vol. 24, No. 2, April 2007) Brother Kriesel is a member of

Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Armenia, and Past Master of Mehr Lodge No 90 and Hayastan Lodge No. 94, give a deep sigh of satisfaction, or was it relief?

Congratulations are due R.W. Bro.

Simonian and to all of the members of the Universal

Accacia Lodge No. 51, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, and an honorary member of our own Freedom Military Lodge No. 1775. Previous recipients of the Medal of Freedom include: US Congresswoman Ileana RosLehtinen (FL), 2006, and U.S. Congressman and Bro. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (MD), 2005.

Bro. Kriesel accepted the award with appreciation and humility. In his moving acceptance speech, he described to the Brothers and guests gathered some of his experiences since his injury and offered his

Brotherhood Celebration Committee, who planned and executed an outstanding weekend of events.

thanks to Deity for the opportunity to return home to his family and friends.

The Brothers and guests

responded with a standing ovation and a spontaneous chorus of God Bless America. Bro. Kriesel has also been awarded the Purple Heart and the Minnesota Service Medal with Valor device.

After dessert and coffee, the time had come to bring the evening to a close. W. Bro. Christopher E. Taylor, Grand Lodge Organist and Master of Sojourner-Kilwinning Lodge No. 1798, ended the evening with his benediction. As the last of the guests left for the night, I believe I heard R.W. Bro. Armen Simonian, Junior

“Freemasonry is partly an ideal of what society is supposed to be like, what interactions between people are supposed to be; a kind of fraternal model of individuals getting together as equals, ‘meeting on the level’.”

Dr. Steven Bullock, Professor of History At Worcester Polytechnic Institute The Voice of Freemasonry

23

Soujourner Kilwinning Lodge Nº1798 visits Rosslyn Lodge in Trinidad and Tobago Alwyn Taylor, PM

W. Bro. Christopher E. Taylor, Worshipful Master of

reception and presentation of dignitaries followed

Soujourner Kilwinning Lodge (SKL) No. 1798 led a

beginning with the District Grand Master of Trinidad,

delegation of nine Brethren and their spouses to

Tobago and Grenada, English Constitution; reigning

Rosslyn Lodge No. 596 of the District Grand Lodge of

and Past Masters of several Lodges. A special wel-

Trinidad, Tobago and Grenada, and under the juris-

come was extended to the delegation from SKL

diction of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, from June

headed by Bro. Christopher Taylor, WM. The WM and

26th to July 2nd, 2007 to further strengthen the bond

Past Masters in his delegation were invited to the

between the two lodges forged a few years back

East.

when contact was re-established with Bro. Ralph Romain, the Chartered Senior Warden of SKL and currently serving as secretary of Rosslyn Lodge. As both Lodges use the identical Scottish Ritual, the visit also afforded the brethren of Sojourner Kilwinning Lodge the opportunity to observe the performance of others.

The last delegation to be received was that of The Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Trinidad, Tobago and Grenada, Scottish Constitution. The arrival of Most Worshipful Bro. Stanley Marcus District Grand Master, who was accompanied by a suite of twelve including four Past District Grand Masters, was heralded by the Grand Director of Ceremonies.

The delegation from SKL comprised of the following:

He was welcomed and received in a manner befitting

Bro. Alwyn B. Taylor, Director of Ceremonies; Bro. Solomon Jackson, PM; Bro. Francis Nicol, PM; Bro. Wilfred Auber, PM; Bro. Jonathan Olu Cole, WJW; Bro. Akie Adams; Bro. Prince Deign and Bro. Michael Palmer. The necessary protocols and formalities were effected and accordingly not only was the District Grand Master informed, but he also issued a Dispensation

authorizing

Rosslyn

Lodge to receive the delegation from SKL and for the WM to participate in the conferral of the Master Mason’s Degree.

The highlight of the visit was the conferral of the Master Mason’s Degree on three Fellow Craft brethren of Rosslyn Lodge. It was characterized by pomp and pageantry in the traditional Scottish tradition.

To begin, Bro. Michael Toney, WM of Rosslyn Lodge, was received by officers and brethren of the Lodge.

Once in King Solomon’s Chair, he requested the officers to occupy their respective stations. The official The Voice of Freemasonry

24

his rank. In addition to the dignitaries, the attendance by brethren was very impressive.

The Master Mason’s Degree was conferred with solemnity and proficiency by a team of seasoned Masons. Participating in the degree work was Bro. Christopher Taylor, WM. The performance was a

Masonic treat which will remain with the brethren

artists. We also had the rare privilege of being enter-

present for years to come.

tained by one of Calypso’s legends, Lord Superior

At the sumptuous Banquet that followed the conferral of the Master Mason’s Degree and at which the wives of brethren of SKL were present, the District Grand

himself. It was particularly fascinating to note that the director and manager of the jazz band is a member of Rosslyn Lodge.

Master underscored the significance of the universal-

On Sunday, July 1, 2007 Bro. Michael Toney, WM of

ity of Masonry and congratulated both Rosslyn and

Rosslyn Lodge entertained us with lunch at his coun-

SKL for the practical demonstration of this phenome-

try residence situated close to the NE part of the

non. In the view of W. Bro. Taylor, fraternal

Island where the lighthouse is located and some

brotherhood was reflected in the warmth of the wel-

three hours driving time from Port of Spain. The occa-

come extended by the brethren of Rosslyn Lodge

sion afforded us the opportunity to see many towns

who made his delegation feel at home. Although the

and villages en-route. One of the points at which we

members of his delegation had not met the other

stopped was a creek from which, on a clear day one

brethren of the Lodge before, the atmosphere was

could see the Island of Tobago. At the luncheon

one of familiarity, demonstrating the true meaning of

some of the brethren of Rosslyn Lodge were also

brotherly love. Bro. Michael Toney, WM of Rosslyn

present, which afforded another occasion to frater-

Lodge was most appreciative of the visit which was

nize and exchange views on a wide range of

his honor and privilege to host.

Masonic and other issues.

The social programs enabled brethren of SKL and

In addition to the official program, brethren and their

their wives to meet and fraternize with the families of

wives organized guided tours to the North of the

brethren of Rosslyn Lodge. These included a wel-

country and on foot to down town Port of Spain, as

come reception and Buffet Dinner at the Residence

the visitors reminisced about their native Sierra

of Bro. Earl Bhagan, on Thursday June 29, 2007. The

Leone.

setting, a hill-top residence with a panoramic view of the valley below and other hills in the distance, and the prevailing cordial atmosphere facilitated fraternal discussions and exchange of views made the evening both pleasant and memorable.

The six-day visit was pregnant with possibilities of Masonic interaction and cross fertilization and lived up to SKL’s Masonic theme of the year 2007 namely “interdependence”. In addition, it exemplified in varying degrees the practical application of the Masonic

Next, was the Jazz and Calypso Concert on Satur-

prescription of Brotherly love, Relief and Truth and

day, June 30th, 2007. It was a delightful evening in

demonstrated the reality that Masonry is still very

that we were entertained by the best of the local

much alive and well.

Masonry does not need change, but the way we teach and practice it, does!

“In all our endeavors, we are charged, above all else, with keeping the principles of freemasonry, and herein lies our strength – ongoing, unremitting. We must change, but the change we need to make, are in the way we present Masonry to today’s man. Men in today’s world – the men we want to have as members, have themselves high standards. We Must create an environment that matches their expectations of an organization representing the highest ideals.”

The Voice of Freemasonry

25

The Essence of Masonry continued from page 10

and hundreds of diverse associations — political, economic, and military — that have been established in consequence of need during our lifetime.

Nowhere, however, has the necessity for unity been more fully appreciated than it is among those who dedicate themselves to securing a better world through Freemasonry. It is thus not unusual for Masons to attribute their successes to “unity” and their failures, of which there may be too many, to “disunity.” Hence, in the Freemasonry that we practice today, we invoke with purpose the 133rd Psalm early in the initiation of our candidates. “Behold,” we remind every initiate, “how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”

Do we do so merely to conform to the demands of our ritual? Perhaps. But there must be a reason for the selection of this Psalm, over all others, for presentation to the initiate. If so, what is it? Many years ago Bruce Harmon Hunt, in a compilation of materials published in reviews written for the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, suggested a logical explanation in an analysis of the Psalm within the context of human relations existing at the time it was written.

In that review Hunt observed that David, “the singer of sweet songs,” was deeply concerned about the unity of his people. He claimed that David feared that the tribes in his nation might drift apart and become enemies if they were not held together by some strong

bond. It was unity, Hunt declared, that the tribes sought, as they participated in pilgrimages or retreats to the same place, at least three times a year. This practice was calculated to bring about the intercommunication of tribesmen with each other. The practice was most certainly one of the chief means by which the unity of feeling and sentiment was kept up among the scattered members of the nation.

The pilgrimages, said Hunt, were to the Israelites what the meeting at the Olympics and other games were to the Greeks, what a trek to Mecca was and is to the Moslems, and, in a sense, what Grand Lodge is to Freemasons. It must have helped greatly the various classes of pilgrims — the spiritual and the secular, the rich and the poor, the citizen and the peasant — to feel themselves united with each other and with the great Jehovah. Just as the 133rd Psalm recorded the means by which the Israelites were bound one to the other, Hunt concluded, it should also remind us that genuine unity is the unvarying condition of real success.

In conclusion it would seem evident that although the 133rd Psalm is used primarily to introduce the novice to the complexity of the moral and spiritual values of the Masonic world, its real purpose is to serve as a constant reminder, to the Masonic initiate and veteran alike, of their mutual obligation to demonstrate by their actions “how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” It is only in the perpetuation and propagation of that basic truth that peace, harmony, and understanding, worldwide, will be attained.

Fall Leadership Conference 2007 The Grand Lodge Fall Leadership Conference 2007 entitled “Enlighten, Energize, Engage” will be held on Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8, 2007, at the 4-H Educational Center in Front Royal, Virginia. Given the renewed energy within Freemasonry, this year’s Conference is designed to focus on Policy and Leadership.

The Grand Master and our Grand Lodge Officers, all look forward to your presence at Front Royal on Friday, September 7. These are exciting times for our Craft!

“ENLIGHTEN, ENERGIZE, ENGAGE!” The Voice of Freemasonry

26

Combined Federal Campaign Todd C. Duehring, PM, Assistant to the Grand Secretary The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is the

itary, civilian and postal workers are employed by the

annual fundraising drive conducted by Federal

Federal government in the National Capital Area. Of

employees in their workplace each fall. Last year,

those employees, almost 166,500 people (approxi-

Federal, Postal employees and military personnel

mately 47 percent) made a gift or pledge to CFC

raised $268.5 million through the CFC that benefits

NCA last year.

thousands of not-for-profit charities. CFC is organized into more than 300 independent geographic campaigns.

The Masonic Foundation of the Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia has completed the registration process to be a part

The mission of the CFC is to promote and support

of the 2007 CFC fund drive “Be a Star in Someone’s

philanthropy through a program that is employee

Life.

focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all

employees to make a contribution to the Masonic

Federal employees the opportunity to improve the

Foundation of the District of Columbia by participat-

quality of life

ing in the CFC’s annual fund drive through their U.S.

for all. Fed-

Government Agency.

eral workers

Support CFC!”

This will allow all federal

New for 2007 is the 5 digit numbering system which

have partici-

effects the entire program for 2007.

pated in a

The Masonic

Foundation of the District of Columbia’s CFC number

national

is, 48808 and is listed in the “Local Agencies” section

workplace

of the Fall 2007 campaign catalog.

giving effort for about 40 years. President Kennedy initiated a for-

While not everyone in this area works for the Federal

mal national giving program for Federal workers in

Government, we all know someone who does. It is

1961. Since then, the CFC has evolved into the

often the case that a Federal Employee doesn’t have

nation’s leading workplace giving program. No other

a favorite charity but now, with every ones help, we

annual employee-giving program raises as much

can offer the Masonic Foundation of the District of

money for charity.

Columbia and make it known to family and friends for

The CFC NCA (National Capital Area) is the largest

their consideration.

unit among these campaigns. More than 353,000 mil-

The five digit to earmark your Combined Federal Campaign donation for the Masonic Foundation of D.C. is

48808 The Voice of Freemasonry

27

Palisades Independence Day Parade and Picnic

James T. Feezell, PM Grand Marshal

Freemasons of the nation’s capital city commemorated 231 years of the United States Declaration of Independence by participating in the 41st Annual Palisades Independence Day Parade and Picnic, on Wednesday, July 4th, 2007. The festivities commenced at 11 AM with a parade up MacArthur Boulevard from the Whitehaven Parkway to the Palisades Recreation Center. At the end of the parade route, the crowd was treated to a picnic with complimentary food and entertainment, courtesy of the Palisades Citizens Association (PCA), local merchants, and the Freemasons of the District of Columbia.

WB Richard Bautista, of Albert Pike Lodge No. 33 organized the Parade Team. He lined up the walkers and drivers and equipped Brothers, cars, and motorcycles with flags and banners. Along the one mile parade route, the Brothers were replenished with miniature flags for the children, pamphlets about the Masonic Child Identification Program (CHIP) for their parents, and water for themselves, to fend off the July heat.

RW Brother Akram R. Elias, Deputy Grand Master rode in the lead car this year. Following in the convoy was MW Bro. Len Proden, PGM, and DC’s Deputy of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite. Representing the York Rite, were Past Grand Commanders of the Knights Templar of DC, WB Hugh Shawen and Charles “Buddy” Wagner.

The Masonic motorcade included two of our own Wild Ones: WB Maximilian Ullmann, PM, of Italia Lodge No. 2001 and Grand Chancellor, and Bro. Warren Peck, of National-Stansbury-Dawson Lodge No. 12, gunning their Harleys.

Dozens of walking Brethren rounded out the contingent. Some bore banners and flags. Some handed out miniature flags or pamphlets. The Clownettes of Montgomery Forest No. 134, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, amused and delighted all.

Not to be out-clowned, for the first time, this year The Voice of Freemasonry

28

the Nobles of Almas Shrine also marched in the Palisades parade, forfeiting their coveted spot in the National Independence Day Parade downtown, to join their Brethren on the cooler, tree-lined streets of the Palisades along the banks of the Potomac River.

At the end of the parade, the Brothers were greeted at the picnic grounds of the Palisades Recreation Center with fresh watermelon, cool beverages, and hot dogs expertly grilled by the Grilling Teams headed by Worshipful Brother Patrick Nnaji and Brother Arthur Lawson, both of East Gate Lodge No. 34. Before the day was out the Brothers of the Grilling Teams would cook and serve over 3,000 frankfurters!

WB Dalton West, PM, led the Masonic Child Identification Program station with the assistance of Bro. Alan Patterson and others, all of the Naval Lodge No. 4. Together, the CHIP Team helped

parents collect and document vital information about their children in a format designed to expedite law enforcement response in case their child is missing or abducted.

Throughout the day, along the parade and about the picnic, the man behind the camera was our own WB William D. Means, of William R. Singleton-Hope-

Lebanon Lodge No. 7. Bill snapped dozens of photos of the event, recording the day for posterity.

cleaned up their area, leaving the park litter-free and the picnickers all well-fed and happy.

While the parade began at 11AM, Brethren were at labor as early as 8AM to prepare for the day’s activities. MW Bro. Lee Ferguson, PGM, and the brothers of the First Grilling Team were among the first out, hauling equipment from the Grand Lodge

Many Brothers contributed to the success of this event. An exhaustive list of all who drilled, grilled and otherwise tilled would fill this entire issue. To everyone who bore a hand in making this day a successful Craft event, I offer my thanks. I recognize, especially, my Independence Day Palisades Activities Committee Co-Chairman, WB Alexander Olbrich, PM, Master of Arminius Lodge No. 25.

The prime mover and shaker of this event, WB Olbrich raised the call to rally the troops, led both Grilling Teams into the fray, and labored until the last case was hauled back to the Grand Lodge building at the end of the day.

to the Recreation Center and firing up the coals with the first light of the day. Soon thereafter, Bro. Lee continued his labors, helping WB Bautista move parade walkers from the Recreation Center to the start of the parade route, and after the parade got underway, he began the task of transporting water, flags, and flyers along the parade route, providing musical accompaniment for the morale and cadence of our contingent. It appears a Past Grand Master of the District of Columbia is due some perquisites, but exemption from work detail is not among them.

For our laboring Brethren, the day continued well after the parade and party were done. The Second Grilling Team took over the Comestibles Command Center about noon and seamlessly continued grilling and serving the culinary Coney Island delights. While the temperatures behind the grills were right out of Dante, the atmosphere was light and boisterous as scores of Masonic chefs stopped by to share with the Teams the proper way to set up the coals and cook a hot dog.

The franks ran out about the same time as the party began to wind down. The Second Cooking Team disassembled their work station and

We were overwhelmed with volunteers to work the event. Thanks to all of the members of the Committee, especially WB West, who planned and executed the CHIP Program flawlessly; WB Kurt Hamrock, Master of William R. Singleton Hope Lebanon Lodge No. 7.conscripted an entire cooking team from the ranks of his lodge and from the members of Nation’s Capital De Molay, of which he is the Executive Officer.

Nor were W Bros. Olbrich and Hamrock the only sitting Masters representing their Lodges in the quarries. At least a dozen Masters abandoned their gavel and Oriental chair for the day in favor of toque and tongs. Most of these Worshipful Brothers brought with them a strong turnout of Fellows of the Craft from their lodges to labor.

Thanks, also, to Ill. Jeffrey G. Bodie, Potentate of Almas Shrine Temple, and Bro. Robert K. Blaine, Colonel of Almas Shrine Temple, for bringing the Nobles of Almas Shrine to the Grand Lodge’s Palisades Parade. It appeared the Brothers, their families and friends all enjoyed them immensely.

Independence Day at the Palisades feels like a “small town” event transported to our Big City. In all, the day was a great success, certainly for the Brethren who participated and attended the event, but also for the entire Fraternity in the District of Columbia. I hope to see you there in ’08!

The Voice of Freemasonry

29

Special Olympics of DC A Worthy Cause Supported Through the Worthy Efforts of the Masonic Family

For the second time in as many years, the Masons of the District of Columbia recently joined with other members of the Masonic family to support a very worthy cause : Special Olympics. Special Olympics provides sports training and competition opportunities for DC residents with intellectual disabilities.

Special Olympics of DC held its Summer Games beginning on Tuesday, May 22, 2007, on the campus of Catholic University, and we were there to help.

One of the most important events of the Summer Games is the Opening Ceremonies, which are preceded by a barbeque for the athletes, their families, and coaches. The Grand Lodge donated a substantial amount of money to fund this barbeque. It also encouraged the entire Masonic family of the District of Columbia to participate in the event and volunteer their time.

R.W. Bros. Jesse Villarreal, Teko Foly, and Ken Fuller spearheaded the recruitment effort. They organized several dozen volunteers from individual lodges,

The Voice of Freemasonry

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Kurt Hamrock, Worshipful Master Singleton-Hope-Lebanon Lodge No. 7

Eastern Star chapters, the DeMolay chapters, the Shrine, and other groups within the Masonic family of DC. They set up for the barbeque, served the BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, and other food prepared by Atlantic Caterers, helped move the athletes through the serving lines, and cleaned up afterwards.

We served over 1000 people that day, and the Special Olympics was extremely grateful for our contributions, both in time and money. The organizers recognized our efforts at the Opening Ceremony later that night and introduced our Grand Master to all assembled. M.W. Bro. Robert Heyat accepted their thanks on behalf of the fraternity and complimented Special Olympics for all it does to improve the quality of life for citizens with intellectual disabilities. He pledged his support for Special Olympics and hoped that the Masons of the District of Columbia would only increase their support in the future.

2007 Grand Visitations GENERAL INFORMATION Grand Visitations to the Constituent Lodges in 2007 will be made on the dates and at the locations indicated herein. Note that visitations to some Lodges are not in their usual meeting places or not on their stated communication nights.

All visitations scheduled for the same dates are joint visitations and will be held in the same Lodge room.

Where a joint visitation is scheduled, the Lodge shown first will be the Host Lodge and will receive the Grand Master. The Host Lodge will coordinate with the other Lodges and arrange for music and refreshments (to be served prior to the opening of the Lodge).

All visitations begin with the entrance of the Grand Master and his suite at 8:00 P.M. except on Saturday,October 20 (10:30 A.M.). The host Lodge in every instance will open ½ hour prior to the entrance of the Grand Master and his suite. In all cases the Grand Lodge must be admitted promptly.

REPORTS: Each Worshipful Master will forward his full report for the year to the Office of the Grand Secretary, AT LEAST 10 DAYS PRIOR TO HIS VISITATION. However, reports presented at the Visitation should be limited to three (3) minutes, expressing the vision and the mission of the Lodge. The Secretary and Treasurer of each Lodge will transmit their books to the Grand Secretary for the customary examination by the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer after the close of the year (Sept. 30) but no later than October 30, 2007 DRESS: Grand Lodge Officers will wear white tie and tails, white apron, gloves and name badge for all visitations.

Lodge Officers are requested to wear tuxedos and their lodge’s apron and regalia Past Grand Masters are requested to wear tuxedos with their ornate or white apron.

All others are requested to wear coat and tie and their lodge’s apron.

SCHEDULE OF 2007 GRAND VISITATIONS T h u r s da y, Oc t o be r 4 t h

We dn e s da y, Oc t o be r 1 7 t h

Singleton-Hope-Lebanon No. 7 Justice-Columbia No.3 Temple-Noyes-Cathedral. No. 32 Joppa No. 35 Cincinnatus No. 76 Nur No. 2000 Azerbaijan No. 2002

Osiris-Pentalpha No. 23 Arminius No. 25 East Gate No. 34 S. Gompers-B. Franklin No. 45 Petworth No. 47

T h u r s da y, Oc t o be r 1 1 t h Albert Pike No. 33 Federal No. 1 Freedom Military No. 1775 Nine Muses No. 1776 Italia No. 2001 Jerusalem No. 3000

S a t u rda y, Oc t o be r 2 0 t h Washington Daylight No. 14 Naval No. 4 LaFayatte-Dupont No. 19 Anacostia No. 21 Alianza Fraternal Americana No. 92 Convass B. Dean Memorial Pythagoras Lodge of Research

T h u r s da y, Oc t o be r 2 5 t h M o n da y, Oc t o be r 1 5 t h Potomac No. 5 Benjamin B. French No. 15 Magnolia No. 53 Fraternity No. 54 La France No. 93 Hayastan No. 94

Hiram-Takoma No. 10 St. John’s No. 11 National-Stansbury-Dawson No. 12 Fiat Lux No. 1717 Sojourner Kilwinning No. 1798

T h u r s da y, N o v e m be r 8 t h Mehr No. 90

The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE ANNUAL COMMUNICATION Saturday, October 27, 2007 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Scottish Rite Center 2800 – 16th St, NW, Washington, DC 20009

GRAND LODGE MEMBERSHIP BANQUET Friday, December 7, 2007 6:30 p.m. Social Hour – 7:30 p.m. Dinner – 8:30 p.m. Entertainment Renaissance Washington DC Hotel 999 – 9th St, NW, Washington, DC 20001

THE THIR D COMMUNICATION Saturday, December 8th, 2007 Installation of Grand Lodge Officers 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Reception 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Scottish Rite Center 2800 – 16th St, NW, Washington, DC 20009

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