The Voice of Freemasonry | Vol. 26 No. 2

Volume 26, Number 2, 2009

IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL

Freemasonry: The Promise of Tomorrow

Grand nd Lodge of Washington DC

1811 811

Bicent Bicentennial tennial 201 2011

An Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of Washington D.C.

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

The Voice of Freemasonry Volume 26, Number 2, 2009 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kwame Acquaah, Grand Master MANAGING EDITOR Mansour Hatefi, PGM, Grand Secretary The Voice of Freemasonry is an official publication of the Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons (F.A.A.M.) of the District of Columbia. Unless otherwise noted, articles appearing in this publication express only the private opinion or assertions of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks only through the Grand Master, and when attested to as official, in writing, by the Grand Secretary.

The editorial staff invites contributions in the form of informative articles, reports, news and other timely information (of about 500 to 1000 words in length) that broadly relate to Masonic law, lore, customs, history, symbolism, philosophy, responsibility of membership, etiquette, current events, and/or general public interest. When possible, photographs that illustrate these informative articles should accompany the submission. Pieces submitted should be typed, double-spaced and preferably accompanied by a computer disk in a neutral PC format or via e-mail to: grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org Articles are subject to editing and, when published, become the property of the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia. No compensation is allowed for any articles, photographs, or other materials submitted for publication.

On the Cover Photography by Arthur W. Pierson, Falls Church, Virginia

The 1903 Grand Lodge Officer Jewels, featured on the cover of this issue, were designed and manufactured in gold by Salvatore Desio, a prominent Washington, DC jeweler. From left to right, 1st row: Grand Master (sun), Deputy Grand Master (blazing star), Sr. Grand Warden (level), Jr. Grand Warden (plumb); 2nd row: Grand Secretary (crossed quills), Grand Treasurer (crossed keys), Grand Lecturer (rolled scroll), Sr. Grand Deacon (dove with olive branch); 3rd row: Jr. Grand Deacon (dove with olive branch), Sr. and Jr. Grand Stewards (cornucopia), Grand Chaplain (open VSL); 4th row: Grand Marshal (crossed batons), Grand Sword Bearer (crossed swords), Grand Pursuivant (heraldic arms), Grand Tiler (sword).

Visit us on the web at: www.dcgrandlodge.org

In This Issue

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MANAGING EDITOR: THE VOICE OF FREEMASONRY 5428 MacArthur Blvd., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016-2524 Graphic design: JP DESIGN :: print | web jpdesign1@verizon.net

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From the Grand Secretary

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From the Deputy Grand Master

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Improving Ourselves

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To Learn to Subdue My Passions

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Grand Lodge Education:Aspiring to Perfection of the Masonic Self

Permission to reprint articles will be granted upon written request to the Editor from recognized Masonic publications and others. When reprinted, articles should note: “Reprinted with permission of The Voice of Freemasonry in the Nation’s Capital, (volume), (number), (year).”

Please direct all correspondence to:

Message from the Grand Master

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Morality and Masonry in the 21st Century

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Stepping Off with the Left Foot (On the Moon)

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Saint John’s Day and the Holy Saints John

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Independence Day 2009: Celebrating Our Great Experiment

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Honored to Wear His Jewel

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To Be a True Mason and an American

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The Past as Prologue

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Emerging from the Winter Solstice: News from the Masters and Warden Association

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Samuel Gompers-Benjamin Franklin Lodge Celebrates Masonic Years of Service

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RWB Mickey Ander: A Rememberance

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Do We Truly Get It?

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Brothers Twice Over: Affi nity Lodges Provide Brotherhood for Common Interests

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2009 Fall Leadership Conference

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2009 Grand Visitation Schedule

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Photo Credits: The cover photography is by Arthur W. Pierson, Falls Church, Virginia. Other photographs appearing in this issue, unless otherwise indicated, were provided by WB Pablo J. Cordova, Grand Photographer; Quentin Miles, Grand Photographer (2008); Roman Volsky, Grand Marshal; the author of the corresponding article, or open sources on the internet.

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GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Grand Master’s Message

The Spirit of the Craft “For what should it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” [Mark 8:36] t the building of King Solomon’s Temple, so spacious and magnificent, and constructed by so many celebrated artists, there was not heard the sound of axe, hammer, nor any tool of iron. Yet, when the building was completed, its several parts fitted with such exact nicety that it had more the appearance of being the handiwork of the Supreme Architect of the Universe than of human hands. How could it be?

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The building of any temple is a cooperative undertaking by a sacred band of brothers, among whom no contention should exist, but that noble emulation of who can best work or best agree.

So it is with the work of our lodges and the Grand Lodge. The construction of our institutions is only possible if we eschew tools of war, backstabbing, backbiting, lies, hostility, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, envy, plots, conspiracies, private piques and quarrels, divisions, and the feeling that everyone is wrong except those in your own little group.

welfare and rejoicing in each other’s prosperity. We celebrate each other’s progress; we do not plot the downfall of such individuals. We accept that we are created by one Almighty Parent to aid, support and protect each other, and not destroy each other.

Our Craft, when it succeeds with us, takes us through not only the building of lodges and a Grand Lodge, but in the building of our own inner temples and the unfolding of our divine purpose as Children of God. The same moral and ethical values we employ in building public edifices, facilitate the construction of our inner temples. The journey from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge, and from death to immortality, serves to engage us in self-mastery and, in understanding the universe in which we live, to serve as agents of change. We are Masons to the extent that we do God’s work in our society.

As individuals and as a fraternity, what do we stand for, in concrete terms, in our “city-state”, our nation, To counter these negative and in the world? What selfpassions and unite us for less actions are we taking Most Worshipful Brother the work we are called upon to address the ignorance, Kwame Acquaah to do as Masons, we are poverty, hunger, disease, admonished to pay due attention to the principal and the sense of despair and helplessness we see all tenets of our Craft: brotherly love, relief and truth. around us? What have we done lately to improve the To promote our cooperative and fraternal work, we life of one child of God? are taught that truth is a divine attribute and the Before the end, we will have to answer the question: foundation of every virtue. To be good and true is the what has my life meant? How will I be remembered? first lesson we are taught in Masonry. On this theme What good has my life been to others, or to the world, we contemplate, and by its dictates endeavor to or to God? How has my life helped to complete the regulate our conduct; hence while influenced by this world? principle, hypocrisy and deceit are unknown among us; sincerity and plain dealing distinguish us; and “Is anything worth more than your soul?” the heart and tongue join in promoting each other’s [Mark 8:37] ■

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GRAND SECRETARY’S MESSAGE

From the Grand Secretary

Membership: Attendance and Retention Mansour Hatefi, PGM Grand Secretary

hose of us, who claim to be Masons on the basis of paying our dues in a timely fashion and attending lodge regularly, should realize that failure to practice Freemasonry beyond the boundaries of the lodge room will perpetuate a lack of recognition by the community as to who we are and what we stand for. We must strive to build a new public perception of the value and relevance of Freemasonry.

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It is very important to the success of our organization for us to work on growing within ourselves and having respect for the world around us; to be outward-looking and to establish ourselves as a vital and integral part of our local communities. This should be an essential step in any effort to enhance the roster of our lodges.

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Fortunately, many 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 representi n g the highest ideals. As such, there must be some very clear plans put into place for inspiring the new members to ensure at tenda nce a nd retention.

The first hours, the first months, the first year a new Mason spends in your lodge will often set the stage for his future in Masonry and, more importantly, his future within the lodge.

There are sufficient signs of renewal suggesting that the Craft is gaining a higher profile as younger men seek out a place for fraternal bonding. However, in our enthusiasm to expand the quantitative aspect of our membership, we should not forget that the strength of the Craft does not reside in the number of members of our lodges, but rather in their quality. Granted that the time has passed when only the elite were admitted to the Craft, but this realization should not be taken as a license to accept just anyone into the Fraternity.

We should continue to strive to attract men of great conscience and character, worthy citizens, The Voice of Freemasonry

devoted family men, and reliable members of the community with true and proven moral and social virtues.

One such plan is simply putting the right man in the right lodge. For as long as we can all remember, the drive for new members has meant that on many occasions, if anyone showed any interest to become a member, the prospect would be channeled straight into the lodge of the man he approached; little or no thought going into how that ca nd idate wou ld relate to the members, or they to him.

The new trend should be to assess the prospective candidate and introduce him to whatever lodge he would feel comfortable in. The personal aspects of the candidate as to his background, profession or vocation, should also be taken into consideration while informing him of the culture and overall outlook of a few lodges and then letting him make a choice as to which lodge

GRAND SECRETARY’S MESSAGE

he would prefer, then to introduce him to that lodge.

Another very beneficial approach would be to match a candidate with a lodge of common focus, providing him with the opportunity to get together with lodge members and enjoy the comradeship of each other.

However, once we gain new members, we must work hard to retain and nurture them so they become active in their membership. We must make Masonry meaningful and relevant to every new Master Mason, individually. We must afford our new brethren everyday practical support as they begin their Masonic journey through life.

The first hours, the first months, the first year a new Mason spends in your lodge will often set the stage for his future in Masonry and, more importantly, his future within the lodge.

Masonry is, in many ways, a journey into a new country. It is often a long journey, and not always a simple or easy one. To help ensure the future of our Fraternity, we must make certain that our new brethren don’t embark on these journeys alone.

We should strive to achieve excellence in all that we do. We need to look at what we have to entice and hold the interest, not only of our present members, old and new, but also of those contemplating joining the Craft. We must

have thoughtful, well-planned lodge programs, excellent standards in the preparation of lodge meetings, excellent standards for the ritual, and an enthusiastic and positive approach in all aspects of our labors, both within and without the lodge.

Let us set the standard that will raise our lodges above the mediocre to a new level of excitement and interest. It is up to us to see that our young Freemasons are not left standing alone. It is our duty to assign a brother to watch over them and introduce them around, take them visiting, mentor them with experienced brethren their own age, and involve their family in their Masonic life. Let them see that Freemasons love one another and care for each other. Freemasonry is a step that should never be regretted, because the road lit by Masonic light is a road of happiness, blessed by peace and harmony. The Masonic rite is built around the individual, with the erection of a moral and social edifice directed at making a brother wiser, better, and consequently happier.

By these actions our members will look forward to attending their lodge meetings and be keen to take an active part, thus helping us to regain anon the relevancy and prominence we enjoyed for so long, not so long ago. We can achieve this goal, but only if we all assume our role in its realization. â–

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DEPUTY GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

From the Deputy Grand Master

What’s It All About? month shy of thirteen years ago, I left my home a Mister and returned a Brother. On entering my abode, I called out in my usual manner, “Honey, I’m home”, and received the standard reply “Hello, Home.” “And, by the way… how did it go?”

My wife Pat, was, of course, referring to my initiation as an Entered Apprentice Mason. In reviewing the evening’s events, I related to her that my qualifications for joining were four in number, i.e., being a man, free born, sound in mind and under the tongue of good report. She chuckled and said, “Well three out of four isn’t bad.” I will leave it to the reader to decide which qualification she felt I lacked.

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Great Lights of Masonry and familiarized with the three Lesser Lights both as to what and who they represented. Upon being shown the working tools of our noble Craft and what in speculative Masonry they should call to mind, I was well on my way to an enlightened awareness of my new state of being. Yes, I was still me, but the “me” in me was subtly changing to a greater understanding of self, my fellow man, and the Deity we Masons refer to as the Great Architect of the Universe.

Yes, I was still me, but the “me” in me was subtly changing to a greater understanding of self, my fellow man, and … the Great Architect of the Universe.

During the process of initiation, I was called upon to answer several questions. Most importantly, in whom did I put my trust?

I chose the first letter of some quality stock I owned (starts with a G and ends with an M) and added a couple of letters of what some young people do and, lo and behold, it was the correct answer. After walking around (I later learned what we did was circumambulation), kneeling and being placed in the proper position, I took upon myself the binding obligation of an Entered Apprentice Mason. I was still trying to assimilate all that I swore to do when I was asked in my present condition what did I desire most. I was about ready to answer “a cold Bud” when something more luminescent was whispered in my ear.

On a much more serious note, during my initiation, passing and raising, I was informed about the three

Paul D. Gleason Deputy Grand Master

Since I was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, I have joined many other Masonic Bodies—York Rite, Scottish Rite, Rosicrucians, Royal Order of Scotland, the Shrine and National Sojourners (outside of Masonry I also belong to the VFW and American Legion) to name a few. And while each group, in its own way, is slightly different, all basically build on the Masonic philosophy as set forth in the EA, FC and MM Degrees.

Brethren, we are all familiar with those teachings.

To name a few—brotherly love, relief and truth, the immortality of our spirit, the separation of church and state, prudence, temperance, and mercy, the quest for and love of knowledge.

While familiarity with these qualities of Masonic life makes us “better men” it doesn’t guarantee success.

What we frequently forget are the necessary prayers to the GAOTU for the strength and tenacity to live up to all the obligations we took during our initiative process and the responsibilities we incur as we rise up in lodge leadership to the position of Master. continued on page 22

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IMPROVING OURSELVES

Grand Orator’s Message

Improving Ourselves iven that we should use our participation in the Craft as an opportunity for self improvement, the questions arises: “What opportunities does Freemasonry offer for self improvement, and how do we accomplish this?”

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The most common definition of Freemasonry is that our rituals and practices teach the principles of morality and virtue; and that by communicating these principles through our lodge work we “make good men better”.

While this is certainly true in many respects, it is a definition that only scratches the surface of Freemasonry. There are many other dimensions and opportunities that are offered by the Three Degrees that are not widely recognized. To understand these other opportunities it will be necessary to start with the question: “How did Freemasonry start and what is it for?”

W. Kirk MacNulty Grand Orator

The 1600’s are the time of the end of the Renaissance.

Most people think of the Renaissance as an explosion of art, but it was a great deal more. Scholarly research in the 1960’s demonstrated that the Renaissance was started in Florence around 1400 by a group of scholars that wanted a rebirth (renaissance) of the classical philosophies. In the 1490’s two bodies of material arrived in Florence. The first was the Hermetica, a work prepared in Alexandria, Egypt early in the Christian era, which is a statement of Egyptian philosophy with some influence from Christianity and Hellenized Judaism.

The other material was composed of Kabalistic writings which found their way to Florence as the Muslims and Jews were forced out of Spain by the Christian Reconquest.

These two philosophical works became what is called the Hermetic Kabalistic Tradition.

The practice of Florence: Birthplace of the Renaissance The origin of the HermeticFreemasonry is a Kabalistic Tradition implies that one should observe real puzzle. The most widely accepted idea, the transione’s behavior and learn from the observation. This sort tion from operative lodges where Masons built castles, of objective observation recognizes that one can look to speculative lodges where Masons practice morality at things and “figure out how they work”. As more and seems to me to be too simplistic. The first evidence we more people experienced this realization many new see of modern Freemasonry is to be found in England in concepts emerged; not the least of which was the idea the mid-to-late 1600’s. These were the so-called “casual that one should not simply follow the long established lodges” because there was no formal Masonic organizadoctrines of society, but that one should explore new tion at the time, and were just groups of men meeting ideas as they occur. This led to some extraordinary privately in pubs to discuss things of importance to activities which produced remarkable results. them. In order to know more, we need to understand what the intellectual community must have been thinkIn Europe the Renaissance ended with the Thirty ing at the time, and that requires a look at history.

Years War. In England the situation was somewhat continued on page 22 The Voice of Freemasonry

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TO LEARN TO SUBDUE MY PASSIONS

To Learn to Subdue My Passions Darryl Carter Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15

To learn to subdue my passions” is a simple yet profound prepositional phrase that forms a cornerstone of the Masonic journey.

Subduing one’s passions can be understood on an intuitive psychological level. Our Passions are our emotions, and they must be restrained in a manner such that they do not cause injury to self or others. This noble goal is not the absolute elimination of emotion. In fact, in psychiatry, “fl atness of affect”, can be a sign of serious underlying pathology. The goal for a Mason is to harness emotional energy so that it contr ibutes positively to the harmony of the family, place of business, place of worship, and the Masonic lodge, and make certain that the emotional energies do no harm. This noble goal is a lifelong exercise, which most of us, including me, only partially achieve.

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to us as anger in the Gospel narrative was not anger in the profane sense; the Nazarene was incapable of profane anger.

What is the source of human emotions? No one can deny that there is a biological dimension to human emotions. And no one can deny the power of Freud’s psychoanalytical triad of id, ego and superego, to understand the human psyche.

But Freud’s superego ultimately fails to bring peace or harmony to the psyche; it is only the source of guilty feeling, yet another emotion.

Aristotle taught that man is a rational animal, but rationality is penultimate to spirituality.

Ultimately, man is a spiritual animal.

With apologies to Descartes, I dare say that I pray, therefore I am. To truly understand the source of t he negat ive or i nju r iou s aspect of human emotions, one “…to circumscribe our desires…”

Yet I submit to you must understand my Brethren, that mere restraint or control of their spiritual origin. The key antagonist is our emotions is necessary, but not sufficient, to attachment. The key protagonist is the antithesis truly subdue our passions. For without a deeper of attachment, i.e. non-attachment, and this is the understanding of the source of human emotion, cornerstone of all wisdom, and the source of the restraining our emotions is nothing more than purest and highest bliss. Lao Tzu, Patanjali, and etiquette. Yeshua of Nazareth overturned the Buddha taught non-attachment. King Solomon, tables of the moneychangers in the Temple and Yeshua of Nazaraeth, and the Prophet Mohammed declared “…you have turned it into a den of taught non-attachment. Selfless non-attachment thieves”. The Nazarene was not a diplomat, nor is a universal principle of spiritual attainment. did he teach diplomacy. Yet, the Nazarene knew King Solomon is the author of three books how to subdue his passions. What might appear of Tanakh (the Old Testament): Proverbs, The Voice of Freemasonry

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TO LEARN TO SUBDUE MY PASSIONS

Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs. Ecclesiastes (Qoheleth, The Preacher) is a masterful teaching on non-attachment. The three opening verses are: “The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem; Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher; all is vanity; What profit hath a man of all his labour that he taketh under the sun?” [King James Version] The original Hebrew for “vanity” is “hevel”.

The literal translation of hevel is “fleeting” or “transitory”, like a breeze. The Hebrew name “Abel” is actually Hevel, and that leads to an important Gnostic teaching unto itself, but we won’t get into that here. Why is all vanity? All is vanity because everything in this world is impermanent. This however is not the real problem: the problem is that we cling to things as if they were static; this clinging originates from the ego. The ego clings to a delusion. This delusion is the root of all human existential misery. The ego sees itself as separated from ever y th i ng else. This is a mirage that the average man identifies as “himself”. The ego’s delusion fi rst fears its own death, and then all change. In its insecurity the ego clings to things; it is incapable of letting go and letting nature be. This in turn creates a psychopathological complex which manifests itself as fear and insecurity, which in turn manifest as anger, jealousy, greed, anxiety, and depression. Ultimately, this complex is the root of all harm to self and to others. It’s ironic, but easily understood within this framework, that the biggest megalomaniacal dictators in history have been extremely violent, insecure, controlling men who were crippled by paranoia and chronic anxiety. The ego is a petty tyrant.

King Solomon taught us in the opening verses of Ecclesiastes to labor, and then to let go. Do not attach to the work itself or to the results of the work or “profit”. Do what needs to be done, move on. Learn from every experience and move on.

nature, and the unity of all things is undeniable.

Embrace nature, and death becomes a cherished friend and advisor. Lao Tzu called the unified ever-changing fl ow of existence the Tao. In physics, the law of Conservation of Mass tells us that matter cannot be created or destroyed, it simply changes form. So it’s futile to cling to forms, and thus the ego’s impositions and expectations are irrational. It’s futile to fear change, especially death. Once one is free from the fear of death, one ceases to cling to things, and the ego is relegated to its proper place. As Masons, it is our solemn obligation to try to live every minute of every day as our Grand Master H.A. lived, and to always remember our ritual. You must observe the ruffi ans compassing about you and compassing within you. Never succumb to their demands. The ruffi ans are the ego, whether it is your ego or the egos of your fellow human beings. The Nazarene taught that he who would save his life shall lose it. Grand Master H.A. lived, died, and was resurrected in accordance with this universal principle.

By simply seeing the ego for what it is, you put it in its place.

The result is internal peace and harmony.

The elimination of fear and longing in human consciousness causes spiritual bliss. Thus are one’s passions truly subdued.

Ultimately, man is a spiritual animal. With apologies to Descartes, I dare say that I pray, therefore I am.

How do we escape the misery created by the ego?

By practicing non-attachment! How? Observe

As part of my mental preparation upon entering a Masonic lodge room, I’ve developed a practice.

I look at the “G” in the East, and inwardly visualize it as the third letter of the Hebrew alphabet, “gimel”. I briefl y meditate upon a story from Jewish lore which culminates with a line attributed to King Solomon. The King was being honored at a lavish celebration. He was presented with a gold ring with three Hebrew letters engraved on it: Gimel-Zayin-Yud. The King had an epiphany and knew that this acronym encoded “Gam zeh ya ‘avor”, which translates “This too shall pass”. When we embody this wisdom and peace, only then are we worthy to enter within the Holy of Holies. ■

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GRAND LODGE EDUCATION

Grand Lodge Education

Aspiring to Perfection of the Masonic Self Marcus A. Trelaine Grand Preceptor

here rests in every Mason the aptitude to acquire the knowledge of higher learning, of deeper perspectives, of profound revelation, and of personal leadership. To help set Masons on their path of discovery and service to Freemasonry, Most Worshipful Kwame Acquaah, Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia, has focused great attention on this important matter during his year in the Grand East.

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Recognizing that knowledge is a primary source of self-efficacy, the Grand Master through his elected and appointed officers, has sought to deliver a series of innovative and thoughtprovoking educational programs. Two such seminars delivered in June 2009 took some major steps delving into the depths of serious inquiry and understanding of the Craft — symbolism and leadership.

Symbolism

There dwells in every Mason the capacity to be greater than himself.

Numerous Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts, and Master Masons gathered at the Scottish Rite Temple on Saturday, June 27th 2009 to jointly discuss and explore the traditional history and esoteric meanings of symbols introduced in the three degrees.

Assembled into several alternating sessions, the brethren engaged in stimulating inquiry on the preparation, ceremony, lecture, and charge of each degree. Much was discussed, revealing not only the challenging demands to immerse oneself in the Craft and to contemplate the wisdom of the mysteries, but that a new way of thinking was also needed to identify, analyze and perfect the language and lessons of interpreting symbols.

At first some believed this perspective somewhat trivial and obvious, but many quickly realized that the mystery of our Craft is hidden directly before

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them, very often in representation of the Hermetic saying, “As above, so below”. To better understand this expression, all were asked to do as did our ancient brethren — cast their eyes upward to look upon the firmament as something much more than a collection of planets, stars and galaxies. In this way, men began to recognize the face of the whole of nature and its relationships to Freemasonry. One example illustrated why an Entered Apprentice is presented to the Master in the northeast corner of the lodge, that place midway between darkness and light. Reflecting upon the movement of the earth, it was learned the spring equinox demonstrated that point when the length of the day is equal to the length of the night, symbolic of equilibrium, as it moved along its orbit around the sun from east to west, via the south.

By attending these and other programs offered by the Grand Master, brethren are offered unique opportunities to advance in their study of the Craft, and discover things before unimagined as new worlds are revealed. And in so doing, they can take fresh reflection upon the charge of an Entered Apprentice Mason to “keep sacred and inviolable the mysteries of the order, as these are to distinguish us from the rest of the community”.

Leadership Still, Freemasonry is much more than the acquisition of arcane knowledge and fraternal bonding.

Although pursuit of a higher level of learning and awareness of our divine connection to one another is critical to the precepts and application of the Craft, there is a component that is equally important, but not as fervently addressed in the rigors of our ritualistic lessons. There dwells in every Mason the capacity to be greater than himself.

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As long as the human race has existed there have been men who rose up among their peers to guide and build, or command and destroy, the world around them. Whether as king, priest, general, explorer, or perhaps even as a Master of a lodge, they brought a kind of confidence, charisma and comprehension that excited others to follow and trust in their vision of a new order. But what separates these men from others? Is it merely a matter of birthright? Is it earned by courage and daring, or by calculation and entitlement? Or is leadership something else altogether?

So what is a leader? Is a leader born or made; and just what defines leadership? We all have some idea of what a leader and leadership is. We certainly know a leader when we follow one, and when we don’t.

Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States and Supreme Allied Commander during World War II reported that, “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” Others like Peter F. Drucker, often considered the father of modern management, offer a more pragmatic view simply stating, “The only definition of a leader is someone who has followers.”

To become a good leader, one must equally commit himself to a never ending process of self-study, education, training, and experience. To guide others and help illuminate their path, there are certain things a “good” Master must be, know, and do.

These sorts of things do not usually come naturally, but are acquired through continual work and study.

To further confuse the issue, we tend to use the terms “leadership” and “management” interchangeably, often referring to the lodge’s management structure (principal officers), as its leadership; or to individuals who instead actually manage various aspects of the lodge’s business, such as the Secretary, Treasurer or Trustee. So what then, really is leadership? Part of the answer seems to reside in what sort of capacity we make reference. There is business leadership, spiritual leadership, combat leadership, academic leadership, and morale leadership, to name but a few.

While being elected Master bestows the authority to accomplish certain tasks and objectives in the Lodge, this power does not automatically transform a Mason into a leader, it simply makes him the boss.

We can look around a lodge and throughout this jurisdiction and find many of our brethren who seem to embody these characteristics. Are they naturally endowed with more leadership abilities than others, do we simply ascribe them such traits, or are they drearily followed only because they have taken possession of the hat and gavel? Every year a new Master is elected to the East to serve and lead his fellow Masons, and still Freemasonry flourishes — or in spite of it.

It is in this vein that the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia has dedicated much of its efforts for this year. Under the direction of the Grand Master, Most Worshipful Kwame Acquaah, several leadership and training sessions have been scheduled in preparation for the upcoming Leadership Conference in September. Relying heavily on the skills and training of Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master Paul D. Gleason, several brethren have endeavored to exemplify the applications of power, leadership and management when ascending to the East.

In June, these and several other key concepts, practices and perceptions were explored through in-depth discussion, and the leadership vacuum created in their absence. In examining Presentacontinued on page 21 The Voice of Freemasonry

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MORALITY AND MASONRY

Morality and Masonry in the 21st Century n the opening to our Grand Lodge website there is the statement, “Freemasons seek to promote friendship, morality and brotherly love”. The dictionary defines “moral” as concerned with the principles of right and wrong behavior, and the goodness or badness of human character.

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As we read newspapers and listen to the media, we are confronted with many examples of individuals in society who do not adhere to moral principles. Elected officials have been accused of accepting bribes or conduct unbecoming to their office.

Some members of Congress have been involved in licentious behavior to the detriment of their family and their constituents.

Our economy has been damaged because financial counselors defrauded their clients of their life savings for personal gain without feelings of guilt. Even in the world of sports, athletes use illegal substances to try to enhance their performance for monetary gain rather than relying on their physical abilities.

It appears that society is experiencing moral dilemmas in many ways.

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We are reminded that “Freemasonry takes good men and makes them better.” That includes being better citizens in our communities, better husbands, and better fathers. Masonry teaches us leadership qualities to be used in all our social contacts. It reminds us that, in our everyday business dealings, to treat everyone with honesty and dignity. At the end of the day, we know our actions will provide us with a sense of satisfaction in all of our efforts.

We as Masons are proud to wear our Masonic rings and pins, not just symbolically, but to show that we are members of a formidable fraternity working to improve society in the 21st century throughout the world.

As Masons, we have formed a philosophy of life amongst all of our degrees. As Entered Apprentice Masons we strive to better ourselves by attaining Light. As Fellowcraft Masons, we learn about the world around us. When we become Master Masons, we are able to go out into that world as individuals and make contributions to it. Our degrees impart morality lessons in order to help us lead upright lives.

The Voice of Freemasonry

Joel Shulman Assistant Grand Chaplain

Would society be better off if more people in all walks of life were members of the Craft and lived true to its principles? It would certainly set it in a more hopeful direction.

At the opening and closing of all communications, the chaplain offers a prayer to show our reverence and belief in the Grand Architect of the Universe, which is essential for governing our conduct. This is the reason that no atheist can become a Mason.

When our meetings come to an end, we conclude with the words “May brotherly love prevail and every moral and social virtue cement us”. That statement sends us forth to rejoin our families and pursue our occupations, secure in the knowledge that all of our actions should be made on the square and circumscribed within the points of the compasses. We as Masons are proud to wear our Masonic rings and pins, not just symbolically, but to show that we are members of a formidable fraternity working to improve society in the 21st century throughout the world. ■

STEPPING OFF WITH THE LEFT FOOT

Stepping Off with the Left Foot (On the Moon) Roman Volsky Grand Marshal

any men of note have risen through the ranks of Freemasonry, making their indelible mark as leaders in business, industry, and politics.

Several have risen to even greater achievements, filling our history books with stories that will last far after we have passed. A few have reached the pinnacle in their respective careers, becoming stellar examples of what the Craft is all about: being men of distinction.

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it, “bruzzer.” This mispronunciation stuck, and he was heretofore known as “Buzz.” In 1988, his famous moniker became his official name. Some people may say that it was no coincidence that Brother Aldrin was one of the first men to walk on the lunar surface.

It was practically his birthright, as his mother’s maiden name was… Moon.

Throughout his historic lunar This summer we landing, Aldrin are celebrating remembered his an achievement Masonic roots. The of mankind that first words ever involved one of our spoken on the Moon own and that is were very likely landing on the Moon. those of Lunar Module pilot Aldrin’s, Edwin Eugene “Contact Light…

“Buzz” Aldrin was Okay, Engine Stop.” pilot for the Apollo He carried with 11 flight that was the him the “Special first manned lunar Deputation” of then landing mission.

Grand Master of Raised in New Jersey Texas J. Guy Smith, and later affiliated who constituted and with a lodge in Texas, appointed Brother he was the first Aldrin as his Special Mason to walk on the Deputy, to represent Moon. He could have the Grand Master on been the first man to the Moon. Brother walk on the Moon, Aldrin later certified but positioning of that he carried the the astronauts inside “Special Deputation” the compact Lunar Main: Brother Buzz Aldrin walking on the Moon. to the Moon on July Inset: Brother Aldrin Landing Module 20, 1969. In addition, made it easier for the he carried with him the Masonic flag, which was commander, Neil Armstrong, to be the first to exit emblazoned with the Blue Lodge Emblem, along with the spacecraft. the Scottish Rite insignias.

Buzz Aldrin was not the first Mason to make space It doesn’t matter that he wasn’t the first Mason to be travel history. John Glenn, the first American that shot in to space. It doesn’t matter that he was the went in to space, is also a Mason. second man to walk on the Moon. What matters is It seems that Buzz Aldrin was destined to become how he did it. I am confident that he stepped off with a Mason. As a child, his sister could not pronounce his left foot. ■ the word “brother” properly, instead pronouncing The Voice of Freemasonry

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ST. JOHN’S DAY AND THE HOLY SAINTS JOHN

St. John’s Day and The Holy Saints John James T. Feezell Senior Grand Steward

n June 26th, 2009, the Craft assembled to honor one of the traditional patrons of Freemasonry, Saint John the Baptist. The assembly was held at the Scottish Rite Center of the District of Columbia, at 2800 Sixteenth Street, NW, at 7:30pm. The brethren were encouraged to bring their families.

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The focus of the evening’s program was to recognize the masters of our lodges, the “Princes of the Craft,” for their dedication to the Craft, and hear about the opportunities and challenges our lodges are addressing this year. It was also their moment to share with the brothers of every lodge in the jurisdiction, some of the victories, large and small, earned through the hard work and determination of our brothers.

These victories are, of course, ours collectively, to the extent they advance the purpose and ideals of Freemasonry in Washington DC, and to preserve the legacy and trust passed on to us by our Masonic forbears.

The evening provoked questions about the significance of St. John to the Craft, and how he came to be adopted as a patron saint. This was the second Saint John’s day celebration in Grand Master Acquaah’s term. The first was held on December 27th, in honor of the Craft’s other patron saint, John the Evangelist.

John the Baptist, however, may have been, at one time, the only patron saint of the Craft. Mackey, in his Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, writes that Saint John the Evangelist was not adopted as a co-patron until after the sixteenth century. It bears recalling that the Premier Grand Lodge of England, one of the two predecessor Grand Lodges to the current United Grand Lodge of England, was founded on June 24th, Saint John the Baptist Day, in 1717.

We are taught the two Saints John serve as examples of virtue and moral rectitude to us, as Masons. An early English catechism offers that Saint John the Baptist was chosen as an example The program also featured a of zeal and purity. John the thoughtful discussion by WB Saint John the Baptist in stained glass located Evangelist was selected as Peter Galitzin, on the legacy at Leicester Cathedral in England the model of thoughtful of Saint John the Baptist, deliberation to help us carry our Masonic designs and the award of scholarships to several meritorious into execution. students. At various points in the evening, we were treated to excellent musical entertainment by the There were, no doubt, other good and upright band: Organ.Ize. figures in history to serve as patrons. In the Bible, The Voice of Freemasonry

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ST. JOHN’S DAY AND THE HOLY SAINTS JOHN

for example, we find many examples of purity and zeal, and of learning and diligence, etc. Why, then the two Saints John? Like so many topics of Masonic history, this too is shrouded in mystery and the subject of speculation. One theory offers these two figures representing diametrically opposed virtues, the passion of John the Baptist, and the learned restraint of John the Evangelist, and, between these virtuous dipoles we should, as Masons, conduct our lives.

John the Evangelist’s selection, as the second patron saint of Freemasonry, gives rise to an interesting theory of Masonic symbolism. John the Evangelist’s feast day is December 27th, near the winter solstice.

Now, we have two figures that represent, perhaps, not only opposites in their character – passion versus restraint, but also the extremes of the solar calendar. This may explain, in part, a particular symbol, where the ancient alchemical and astrological symbol for Sol, the sun, a point within a circle, is bounded on the left and right by parallel line segments.

If these line segments represent the boundaries of solar calendar, i.e., the shortest and longest days of the year, then are the Holy Saints John invoked directly, or by inference? If the latter, then it appears a key symbol of our Craft may extend beyond a purely Christian interpretation.

Passing round the circle, or the sun, the source of light, between those borders, may represent our passage from solstice to solstice, and back again, from year to year.

Another possible explanation of the adoption of these two men as patrons may lie in the dates of their respective celebrations. John the Baptist, we’re told in the Book of Luke, was born approximately six months before Jesus Christ. It is believed that the date for Christ’s birth was fixed at December 25, some time in the fourth century. Some scholars suggest this date was chosen, in part, to coincide with the pagan celebration of the winter solstice. Thus, it follows that John the Baptist’s date of birth, six months prior, would coincide nearly with the summer As we continue on our solstice. The celebration passage around that of the birth of John the circle, nearing September Baptist is thought, by in our Capital City, it may Saint John the Evangelist in stained glass located at All Saints Church in Cambridge, England some, to have been a not yet feel like we are means of superimposing retreating, inexorably, a Christian celebration over the extant practice of back toward winter, but we are. The shrinking of the celebrating the solstice; the idea being: retaining the daylight hours is still imperceptible. Ironically, it is days, if not the original meaning, of various pagan during these summer months when we refer to some celebrations, made conversion more palatable, and of our lodges, recessed for the summer, as having hence, more peaceful. gone dark. This past Saint John’s celebration was for many, our last opportunity to enjoy the fellowship of If, then, a society were dedicated to the bringing our brothers, across so many lodges, until Labor Day of men to light, as an allegory for knowledge, what restores the working of our Craft again to full vigor. better patron than the Saint whose birth coincides with the longest and, hence, most illuminated day of I look forward to sitting in lodge with you again, soon.

■ the year?

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CELEBRATING OUR GREAT EXPERIMENT

I N D EP ENDE NCE

Celebrating Our Great Experiment This year, our Grand Master, MWB Kwame Acquaah, encouraged each lodge to support the local community parade closest to that lodge’s meeting place.

Just three weeks before Independence Day, we learned that we had been approved for participation in the National Parade, so each lodge was also asked to provide marchers for that event.

Fifty Masons marched in the Takoma Park parade. There were also a number of family members who attended and viewed the parade from the Takoma Masonic Center. All The Grand Master marches along Constitution Avenue with fellow Masons ten lodges that meet at Takoma Masonic Center—as well as one n the 4th of July, 2009, the members of our local other lodge in our jurisdiction—were represented lodges turned out in force to celebrate the 233rd in the parade. Over 5,000 American flags, 500 flag anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of keychains, and 400 “What’s a Mason” pamphlets were Independence of the United States of America. DC distributed to parade watchers.

Freemasons marched in the National Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue and in local According to WB Robert E. Johnson, Master of St. community parades in Palisades, Capitol Hill, and g No. 11,, “during g the course of the Takoma John’s Lodge Takoma Park.

Park parade, Pa parad aarrad a e, e, several sev e erral al inquiries inq nqui uiri ui riee were made by parade ri Park

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is of of special spe peci ciaall sigssig igig Independence Day is aasso on ns, s, ggiven iven iv ven en tthe he he nificance to Freemasons, nt of of M aasso on ns in n significant involvement Masons n ati tio on n aand nd n d tthe he he the founding of our na nation etwe et ween n Masonic Maassson on niicc strong correlation between onta on tain ineed d iin n th he principles and those ccontained the epende ep ende en denc nce, e, Declaration of Independence, Ri igh ghts ts.

Constitution, and Bill o off R Rights. llodges od dg ges es In recent years, DC lo arti ar ticciiihave focused their particiad de es pation on the Palisades an nd d parade, marching and feeed fe d cooking hot dogs to feed who wh the thousands who n attend the festivities iin rthe neighborhood surnd d rounding our Grand Lodge headquarterss building.

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vviiew ewer ers er rs about aab bout out jo ou jjoining oin niin ng th tthe hee F viewers Fraternity, and our participat ip atio io on w wa aass very ve ery yw arml ar mlyy re ml rreceived e ipation was warmly by the thousands lilini ning ni ngg tthe he 1.2 1.2 2m mil ilile pa araade de route.” lining mile parade At the th hee jjud u ging ud ging sstand, gi tand ta nd d, Ma M a At judging Masonic baseball caps were pres pr eseen esen es nte t d by

by MWB MWB R ob ob presented Robert H. Starr, PGM, and RW R WB Christopher Ch C hrist riist s op ophe herr K. he K M a RWB Mahaney, Grand Lecturer, behal eh hal alf of o the the e lodges lo od dge g s meeting at the Takoma on behalf M Ma asso on niic ic Center, Ce Cent ent nter nter er,, tto o Delegate Tom Hucker, Masonic Mary Ma yla l nd House Hou ouse sse e o Maryland of Delegates (Legislative Dist Di stri rict ct 20 20 / Montgomery Mo M o District County) and tth he Honorable H no Ho norraabl b e Bruce B the Williams, Mayor of Ta Tako ako kom koma maa P ark. ar k.

Takoma Park.

O C On ap pit itol itol ol H Capitol Hill, brethren from Naval Ma M aso soni nic Hall Haa marched, cooked hot H Masonic do d ogs gs aand nd hamburgers for parade nd dogs wa w atc tche h rs rs and participants, and watchers eev ven en had ha a moon bounce for even n ne eig ghb hbo neighborhood kids.

Bro. Peter Brusoe serving hot dogs in Palisades

D AY 2 0 0 9

CELEBRATING OUR GREAT EXPERIMENT

“I am happy to report that the Palisades 4th of July parade was again a success,” exclaimed Right Worshipful Brother Jeffrey D. Russell, Junior Grand Steward.

“The parade was well attended by Past Grand Masters, the Deputy Grand Master (Right Worshipful Brother Paul D. Gleason), and Master Masons. Most notably, Most Worshipful Brother Grant R. Berning, Past Grand Master, once again was in full costume as Uncle Sam. He was a great hit during the parade, receiving round after round of applause, and many of the spectators wanted photographs taken with him.”

Thousands of American flags were handed out to Palisades parade watchers, and our marchers MWB Grant R. Berning as were accompanied by two Uncle Sam vintage Corvettes. The parade ended at the community recreation center, where more than 3,000 hot dogs were grilled and served to those who came to enjoy live music and activities for the families. We received many a “thank you” from the crowd and the president of the community association.

“I It fe ffelt elt l ggood ood to oo o h ear pa ea p para arraade de o bsserrvv“It hear parade observeers er rs proc pr ro occlaaim mo urr n u am me, e, ‘‘Freemasons,’ Free Fr ree eemaaso sons ons ns,,’’ proclaim our name, with wi th aawe th we e and and d aadmiration,” dmir dm irat ir a io at ion, n,” ssa n, aiid dM WB WB said MWB Ac A cqu quaaaah. h. “Ma ““Marching Marrcch Ma hiing ng as as Acquaah. wee d w id id, d, o on n tthe hee ver h vvery erry ery did, br b broa roa o d Co onsti nsti ns titu tuti tu tion ti n broad Constitution

Avenue, with so many brethren marching in columns three abreast (wisdom, strength, and beauty), it was heartwarming to receive the applause and cheers that greeted us.”

Our participation in each parade was coordinated by one or more volunteers. Please take a moment to thank them and the other brethren mentioned in this artiCelebrating on Capitol Hill cle for the excellent job they did orchestrating our successful participation in a major event.

• Palisades – RWB Jeff Russell, JGS; WB Garrison Courtney, Master of Cincinnatus Lodge No. 76; WB Richard Bautista, PM, of Albert Pike Lodge No. 33 • Takoma Park – WB Robert E. Johnson, Master of St. John’s Lodge No. 11 • Capitol Hill – WB David A. Johnson, Master of Naval Lodge No. 4 • National – WB J. David Moses Rozsa, Master of Albert Pike Lodge No. 33; WB Roman Volsky, Grand M Marshal T Th he G The Grand Lodge supported each parade, providing M Ma Maso aso son on baseball caps and banners for the marchers Masonic an nd A and American flags to hand out to parade watchers. To aallll wh al who participated in these 4th of July events—and to tthose to ho who spent the day with their family or friends ho else el s w se elsewhere and thus demonstrated our appreciation for our loved ones’ support of our Masonic involvement—thank you for making this Independence Day a highly enjoyable and rewarding day for DC Masonry. May the enlightened principles of ou o u Craft persist for at least another 233 years… and our h ha a happy birthday, America! ■

A great turnout in Takoma Park

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HONORED TO WEAR HIS JEWEL

Honored to Wear His Jewel Kevin P. Jay, Past Master Wm. R. Singleton – Hope - Lebanon Lodge No. 7

y name is Kevin Jay, and I was Worshipful Master of Wm. R. Singleton-Hope-Lebanon Lodge No. 7 in 1998. At the end of my term in the East, I was presented with a Past Master’s jewel. Upon examination, I saw that I was not the fi rst Worshipful M Master aste as ste ter to bear this jewel. The first name a me me h he that was engraved upon the n jewel was Charles C. Holben who was Worshipful Master off Lebanon Lodge No. 7 in 1952..

I wondered about who thiss d brother was, what happened nd d in his lodge, and in this grand jurisdiction, during his year aass Master.

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was as Charles Clifford Holben wa no n on on born in 1895. He joined Lebanon Lodge No. 7, and was initiated ated at ted d December 20, 1935, passed d on n January 17, 1936, and raised d on on February 21, 1936. Back then, hen n, Lebanon Lodge met on the fi firrrst st st and third Fridays of the month. nth th. h.

While WB Holben was Master, r, R. Hilton Gore, brother of ourr treasurer W. Fred Gore, wass the Junior Warden of Wm. R R..

Singleton Lodge No. 30, and d Hugh Y. Bernard was Junior or or Deacon of Hope Lodge No. 20.

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The total number of Freemasons ons ns in DC was 25,265, of which ch ch Lebanon Lodge contributed d 1317 brethren. During hiss year, the lodge raised 29 men to the sublime degree of Master Mason. k Several special events took n place in our grand jurisdiction een n that year in which WB Holben took part:

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The Master’s Association held the “Night of Thrills” on June 13, and presented a check to the Grand Master for $28,000 for the Masonic & Eastern Star Home from the previous year’s fundraiser.

A Special Communication of the Grand Lod Lo od Lodge was called to lay a corne n e nerstone at the Church of S Se e Self-Realization Fellowship of W Washington DC located at 4710 W Western Ave., NW. The Grand Master re-enacted tthe consecration of Washingtton to on Centennial Lodge No. 14, wh w h i had been granted its charwhich te er on November 4, 1852. The ter Gra Gr ra Grand Lodge officers wore clothiing in n g appropriate to that period d du r during the re-enactment.

P Pe e Perhaps the most significant o oc c occurrence was the discovery off stones bearing the markings o of Freemasonry when the White of H Ho o House was being remodeled.

T These stones were presented to the Grand Lodge of DC along to w with a letter to the Grand Mastter te e from the President of the Un U n United States, Harry S Truman.

W Wo o Worshipful Brother Holben pass pa ssss passed to the Celestial Lodge on n November 30, 1968. He left b behind many brethren and friends whom we still know and recognize today. I am honored to wear his jewel and hope to continue the tradition of passing it down to another Past Master when my span of days is concluded.

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TO BE A TRUE MASON AND AN AMERICAN

To Be a True Mason and an American Memorial Day should have a special meaning for Masons reminding us to stand firm in the right as God gives us to see the right.

My Dear Brethren: emorial Day was first set aside to honor the Civil War dead. Subsequently, it became the day on which to salute all those who have served the United States in all conflicts beginning with the Revolutionary War. Many of us spend the Day as observers or participants in ceremonies involving laying wreaths, lowering flags, marching in parades, participating in prayer services, and conducting various other forms of commemorative activities. Of course, some of us spend our time in less solemn ways on holiday or at home nursing the grill into flame and sharing the fellowship of our friends and families.

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Irrespective of how the day is passed, we cannot be oblivious to its uniqueness. It is the one day during the year when we pause to pay homage to those who have made the supreme sacrifice for this great country. They were willing to face war and accept death, if necessary, for the good of our country.

On this day of remembrance, let us realize that we owe it to these distinguished servicemen and women to treasure the glorious virtues for which they fought and, perhaps, gave up their lives. They were the brave souls who established or preserved the noble values we take for granted today: liberty and independence; freedom and justice; equality and democracy.

The men, some of whom were Masons, died that we may have better lives. Therefore, as we ponder their sacrifice, let us ask ourselves, “Are we living up to our side of the bargain?” More especially, “As Masons, are we living our lives to honor their sacrifice?” If not, why not?

Memorial Day should have a special meaning for Masons. Minimally, it should alert us to our role in society. Which other group could bring to fruition the ideals fought for by these servicemen and women?

Which other band of men has the responsibility to build a better society in keeping with the designs of the Great Architect of the Universe? Which fraternity has members so clearly dedicated to living ethically and morally upright lives and, thereby, serving as examples to the world? Which brotherhood is sworn to live by positive principles, choosing good over bad and right over wrong?

Yes, it is Memorial Day—a day to mourn, a day to pay our respects, and a day to admire those who have gone before. Most of all, it is a day to reflect on the principles we, as Freemasons and Americans, hold dear. These are the same principles for which, in the face of extreme danger, the servicemen and women we honor today displayed courage, loyalty, and fidelity to one another and to our country. How very Masonic of them!

If only we could all display such fortitude. As our ritual teaches us, in another time and place, in the face of life-threatening danger, our Grand Master H.A. displayed the very same fortitude as he held true to his principles. By his example, he showed us what it meant to be a pillar of strength and a tower of fidelity.

Now it is our turn. How do we react to the ruffians of our world? Are we willing to fight the good fight for truth? Are we willing to stand up, and not count the cost, to protect and preserve the principles we are taught in Masonry? Let us look upon this Memorial Day and resolve to rededicate ourselves to learning the true meaning and object of our honorable Craft.

And, may the GAOTU make us ever mindful of what it means to be a true Mason and an American!

God bless.

Fraternally, Kwame Acquaah, GM ■ The Voice of Freemasonry

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THE PAST AS PROLOGUE

The Past as Prologue William T. Rule Assistant Grand Lecturer

n my family I am at least a fourth generation Mason. Although I came late to the Craft, I eventually knocked at the door because of the men my father and grandfather were and because of the men they associated with. I am also a product of small-town Masonry even though I did not become a Mason before coming to Washington: the men I knew who were Masons were the backbone of the small communities I grew up in. I thought it might be because of this small-town background that I came to question the current state of the Craft, but I now think not.

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Two pieces from the Indiana Freemason Magazine convinced me that I am not alone: Whither Are We Traveling? and Why This Confusion in the Temple? They laid out a series of questions and pitfalls that focus on some critical issues for the Craft.

Authored by Dwight Smith, PGM of the Grand Lodge of Indiana and originally published nearly 40 years ago, they have remarkable relevance today; so much so that a series of discussions between 2003 and 2005 among Masons from various backgrounds led to the publication of Laudable Pursuit: A 21st Century Response to Dwight Smith. All of these articles can be found easily through an internet search and I encourage you to get them and read them. I repeat the questions and pitfalls below: Questions 1. How can we expect Freemasonry to retain its past glory and prestige unless the level of leadership is raised above its present position?

2. How well are we guarding the West Gate?

3. Has Freemasonry become too easy to obtain?

4. Are we not worshipping at the altar of bigness?

5. What can we expect when we have permitted Freemasonry to become subdivided into a score of organizations?

6. Has the American passion for bigness and efficiency dulled the spirit of Masonic charity?

7. Do we pay enough attention to the Festive Board?

While Master of Federal Lodge, I used the Lodge’s Trestleboard from time to time to try to encourage reflection on the basic principles of Masonry. I also argued there and elsewhere that we may have, perhaps, wandered a bit too far from the path our Masonic ancestors walked. I have even gone so far as to suggest that our members, and especially our younger members, may be looking for a good deal more than they are currently getting, and that if we are to keep them and attract more men of the kind Masonry needs, we must change our ways.

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8. What has become of that “course of moral instruction, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols,” that Freemasonry is supposed to be?

9. Hasn’t the so-called Century of the Common Man contributed to making our Fraternity a little too common?

10. Are there not too many well-meaning Brethren who are working overtime to make Freemasonry something other than Freemasonry?

THE PAST AS PROLOGUE

Pitfalls 1. Abandon the “free will and accord” rule which has placed our Craft far above the mine run of societies and permit outright solicitation.

2. Ape the service clubs. Get busy on “projects” galore in the best Babbitt fashion.

3. Go into the organized do-good business in a big way. Find an area of the human body that has not been exploited. Exploit it. Set a quota, have a kickoff dinner, ring the doorbells.

4. Subsidize other organizations right and left, and, in so doing, ignore, neglect and starve the parent body.

5. Feminize the Fraternity. Carry togetherness to even more ridiculous extremes than we have already.

6. Hire press agents to tell the world, like Jack Horner, what great boys we are. Never mind actions; concentrate on words.

7. Imitate Hollywood. Stage an extravaganza. Bring in all the groups that ever fancied themselves remotely related to Freemasonry. Form the parade, blow the bugle, beat the drums, and cheapen the Fraternity.

8. Let Freemasonry “take a position” on public issues of the day. Stand up and be counted (assuming, of course, that the position our Craft takes is in line with our own pet prejudices.)

9. Go all out for materialism. Raise money; spend it. Build temples, institutions. Subsidize; endow.

Whatever can be had by writing a check, get it.

10. Centralize, centralize, and centralize. Pattern Freemasonry after Washington bureaucracy. Let nothing be done modestly by an individual or a Lodge; do everything on a state or national level the super-duper way. Make a great to-do about local self government, but accept no local selfresponsibility.

I encourage every Mason to read these three articles and consider carefully the questions and pitfalls enumerated above. I believe that our future quite literally depends on it. ■

Grand Lodge Education continued from page 11

tion (Manner and Appearance), Communication (Listening and Speaking), Inspiration (Motivating and Guiding), Succession (Mentoring and Appointing), and other methods, we found that Masonic leadership is an effective combination of personal traits and the ability to think and act decisively, that directs the activities of others for the benefit of all. And as Freemasonry teaches, with dedicated effort, anyone can be a leader. While being elected Master bestows the authority to accomplish certain tasks and objectives in the lodge, this power does not automatically transform a Mason into a leader, it simply makes him the boss.

All this brought the discussion back to the question of what is a good leader, and more especially how could a Mason be measured? To assist in better understanding this question a sample selfassessment instrument was introduced to assist in personal evaluation of five leadership areas: 1) Power & Control; 2) Inspiration & Motivation; 3) Strategy & Planning; 4) Communication & ProblemSolving; and 5) Team-Building & Consensus. A complete Leadership Self-Assessment will be delivered to all Wardens and Deacons from the Grand Lodge in preparation of the Leadership Conference.

Designed to help sort out the distinctions between a Masonic leadership role and lodge management responsibilities, the self-assessment will also query skills or interests which derive the greatest satisfaction; and what individual strengths are best developed. Most importantly, it offers tomorrow’s Masters some important considerations in thinking about the kind of legacy they might choose to leave Freemasonry. Officers preparing to assume the East in 2010 will be keenly interested in learning more about this tool. However, participation in the next phase of this Grand Lodge Leadership program will require attendance at the Leadership Conference on September 12-13, 2009, at the Bolger Center in Potomac, Maryland.

Whether the educational offering is in Masonic symbolism, leadership, officer duties, or other course of instruction, Most Worshipful Grand Master Kwame Acquaah, the officers and administrative staff of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia are ready and eager to assist all Brethren in this outstanding jurisdiction interested in improving his knowledge and value to the Craft. ■

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CONTINUING ARTICLES

What’s It All About? continued from page 6

For our Masters-to-be, I ask you this: Is being a good Mason sufficient to being a good Master? Is being a fair to good ritualist sufficient to ensure success as a Master? Will you have a successful year as Master without some facility in planning, programming, and budgeting? Are you comfortable with delegating authority? Are you familiar with the many and varied principles of leadership set forth in numerous publications? Have you read a book or pamphlet on leadership other than the “parachute book” in the last year? Do you know your personality style and how best to interact with others of a different genre? Your

answers to the above questions and your reaction to them might well facilitate a more enjoyable and fruitful year as Master of your lodge.

Without a basic understanding of the principles of leadership, your year in the East will not be as grand and rewarding an experience as it might have been.

So in answer to the question which opened this essay: IT’S ALL ABOUT LEADERSHIP, leadership, superimposed on excellent ritual, in an atmosphere of collective responsibility towards a common goal, with teamwork and brotherly love as the binding force. ■

Improving Ourselves continued from page 7

better, although they did have a civil war with religious orientation. Nonetheless, the Renaissance continued in England, but principally in the aspect of “original thought” and the pursuit of scientific understanding.

How does all this connect with Freemasonry? As we see the Renaissance ending with an increased interest in scientific investigation, it seems likely that those with a philosophical inclination might wish to gather together and study the mystical aspect of Renaissance thought so that it might be preserved. That is what I think that the early Freemasons were doing in their casual lodges, working to preserve the philosophical essence of the Renaissance. If that be the case, then there is a great deal of information hidden in the workings of Freemasonry; information that deals with our own nature. Then the questions are: “Why should it have been hidden?” and “How do we discover it?” It was hidden because Freemasonry was developing during a

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period of serious religious conflict, and people who were seen to be thinking “differently” often suffered serious consequences. As to discovering it, the hidden material relates to each of us – to each human individual. If we look at the workings and literature of Freemasonry from that perspective, the hidden material will reveal itself.

The way that seems best to start is to look at the symbolic structure. The whole structure of the Craft Degrees is built around Solomon’s Temple; indeed many of us frequently refer to our lodge as “The Temple”. If we look at that symbol from the perspective of the Biblical reference, “Know ye not that ye are the Temple?”, then a whole new perspective for Freemasonry emerges. The events in the ritual that relate to the Temple are events that relate to each of us as we make that journey in consciousness that was envisioned by the philosophers of the Renaissance. There is a great deal more here which we can investigate subsequently. ■

NEWS FROM THE MASTERS AND WARDENS ASSOCIATION

Emerging from the Winter Solstice News from the Masters and Wardens Association J. David Moses Rozsa President, Masters and Wardens Association

t our Grand Lodge’s St. John’s Day celebration on Friday, 26 June 2009, we showed our appreciation for the good work being done by the Masters of our constituent lodges, and they shared news of the activities, challenges, and successes of the lodges. As noted then, each lodge has a unique character and is in a unique situation—and we have much more in common than we have differences.

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Through the Masters and Wardens Association, our lodges’ pillar officers combine efforts to magnify the positive impact of our lodge activities, review Grand Lodge proposals, share best practices and concerns, and offer creative solutions to the issues facing our lodges and Grand Lodge. Most of the challenges identified this year fall into one of three categories: 1) Providing effective leadership training and resources to emerging lodge leaders; 2) The impact of the national economic recession on lodges’ ability to accomplish objectives; and 3) Developing the capacity to provide consistently high-quality Masonic education and mentorship to new Brethren.

Brethren and friends, this is excellent news. As illustrated by the graph above, Freemasonry in the United States of America is at its lowest membership point since 1925. Financially, we need to figure out how the capital generated by the sale of our Grand Lodge building several years ago can be invested or

used to advance our strategic mission and goals. The vast majority of our members do not reside within our grand jurisdiction, limiting our connection to our local community and increasing the travel time commitment required for our members to participate in lodge activities.

Yet, despite these significant concerns, at my mother lodge and the other twelve lodges I have visited thus far this year there is no silence at the West Gate and no shortage of substantive educational content at our meetings. In fact, as mentioned above the biggest challenge seems to be our ability to build and maintain the infrastructure necessary to support the recent influx of new, enthusiastic members in search of enlightenment.

Have we reached our winter solstice, the darkest point in the cycle? Have we taken off our hoodwink of apathy, resumed our determined journey towards truth and harmony, and started to inspire a new generation to share our Masonic vision?

The answer, of course, is up to you. By your actions, you can build on the positive momentum or hamstring it. Personally, this year I have had my faith—in Freemasonry, in our system of symbolic ethics and fraternal love, and in my fellow Brethren and lodge leaders—vindicated and amplified. Each of our lodges is facing its challenges in good faith and with a fixed and steady purpose of mind, and each lodge has been successful in giving its members the tools and continued on page 25 The Voice of Freemasonry

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MASONIC YEARS OF SERVICE

Samuel Gompers – Benjamin Franklin Lodge Celebrates

Masonic Years of Service

by Burton Penn, PM Samuel Gompers – Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 45

espect and honor are the two virtues Masons display for those who have gone before them.

And brethren, these virtues were amply manifested as Samuel Gompers-Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 45 celebrated its annual Award Night on July 14, 2009, presenting Twenty Five, Fifty and Sixty Year service emblems to members who had achieved these milestones.

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That evening no less than 26 Brethren were honored, seven to receive their 25 year pin, eight their 50 year pin and 11 their 60 year pin! The group consisted of one Past Grand Master, four Past Masters one of whom was also a Past President of the lodge’s Fellowcraft Club, and twenty one side liners, many of whom over the years have been ardent workers in the vineyards of Freemasonry and leaders in their communities.

Chairmen, Worshipful Bros. Walter Simon, Burton Penn and Jerome Bauman conducted the program starting with reciting a brief history of the lodge during the years 1984, 1959 and 1949 respectively, representing the 25, 50, and 60 year anniversary of the raising of the honorees.

The Co-Chairmen alternated in reading the names and abbreviated histories of all the honorees in alphabetical order consisting of their families, hobbies, educational and professional backgrounds and other pursuits, achievements and goals the honorees wanted to share about themselves in written inquiries made to them and their respective responses thereto.

Worshipful Bro. Simon requested the Master of Ceremonies, Worshipful Bro. Merriman F.C. Parkinson, to conduct the 25 year service award recipients to the altar, where the Master and the Grand Master presented them with their 25 year pins and certificates. The honorees were afforded the opportunity to make brief remarks about their time in Masonry.

The Worshipful Master Jonathan Binstock greeted Most Worshipful Brother Kwame Acquaah, Grand Master, at the altar and had him escorted to the East. It is always a pleasure to have Most Worshipful Grand Master Kwame Acquaah at At this point a magnificent our Lodge. He is highly ceremony was conducted The Grand Master makes a presentation to MWB regarded and most

by RW Mansour Hatefi, Theodore M. Kahn respected by the Brethren Grand Secretary of the of Samuel Gompers-Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, that few of 45. The Grand Master was accompanied by several us had witnessed before. Most Worshipful Mansour Grand Lodge Officers who were also introduced.

Hatefi, who served as Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia in 2000, is one of the most The Grand Master led the Pledge of Allegiance to the erudite, knowledgeable and respected Masons in the flag of our country followed by a musical selection by fraternity. This ceremony, which this writer alludes Bros. Merv Conn on the piano accordion, an honoree, to as,” WEST OF THE ALTAR…” is conducted to and Robert Redding, on the trumpet. These brethren honor and celebrate the recipients of the 50 and 60 played throughout the night. Thereafter the CoThe Voice of Freemasonry

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MASONIC YEARS OF SERVICE

Honorees at the annual awards night of S. Gompers – B. Franklin Lodge No. 45

year service awards and to demonstrate our love, affection and respect for them.

had an opportunity to reflect on their time in the Lodge.

It began by Worshipful Bro. Burton Penn, CoChairman directing the individual 50 and 60 year recipients to rise and be presented at the altar by WBro. Merriman F.C. Parkinson, PM. At this point Most Worshipful Bro. Hatefi assumed the East and presented a magnificent narrative in his inimitable style for the benefit of the 50 and 60 year members.

Everyone in the Lodge was mesmerized! There was a long silent moment for all to reflect. It was a wonderful tribute to these marvelous Masons. They in turn

A pictorial account of the proceedings of this memorable event has been documented by WBro. Burton Levy, PM, now accessible on the internet.

Prior to closing, our Grand Master, MW Kwame Acquaah, did something so grand that it will be long remembered by our lodge. The Grand Master had the brethren all rise and recite after him a delightful poem of affection to our ladies. He brought down the house. He then bid all a safe journey home. ■

Emerging from the Winter Solstice continued from page 23

guidance they need to improve themselves and their communities. Most importantly, the Entered Apprentices, Fellow Crafts, and Master Masons whom I meet are finding value in their Masonic experience and are eagerly contributing to the renaissance of our Craft.

Here are five steps we can take to ensure that this is truly a renaissance and not just a hiccup in a downward trend: • Periodically assess the needs of the Brethren, educate them regarding the scope of Freemasonry, and ensure that lodge activities provide value to the Brethren; • Develop a strong infrastructure in each lodge and in the Grand Lodge, to provide effective leadership and manage the resources necessary to support a new wave of active Masons;

• Communicate our Masonic vision consistently and effectively to new, established, and potential members; • Get more involved with the communities surrounding our lodge buildings and provide opportunities for local residents to learn about our Craft; and • Focus on developing constructive solutions to issues that arise—giving each other the benefit of the doubt, treating each other fraternally, and maintaining a positive attitude without losing sight of reality.

In the midst of darkness, remember that the sun also rises. Judging by the renewed interest in Freemasonry, dawn is upon us. Are you and your lodge ready to greet the new day? ■

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RWB MICKEY ANDER: A REMEMBRANCE

RWB Mickey Ander

A Remembrance n every Masonic generation, we find a few Masons, who stand-out for their fidelity to the Craft, unselfish service to the fraternity, unquestioned loyalty to the precepts and values of our noble institution, respect and love for their brothers and fellows and, who at all times, serve as exemplars befitting the high importance and majesty of Freemasonry.

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In our time, one such fine Mason was Right Worshipful Brother Mickey Ander, who, on Saturday, June 13, 2009, laid down the precious working tools of the Craft he treasured for 50 years. He was a Mason’s Mason and, by his behavior and conduct, demonstrated patience, kindness, fairness, goodness, gentleness, humility, selflessness, self-control, honor, uprightness, integrity, friendliness, courtesy and love for all God’s children.

To him, being a Mason was a privilege.

ning Lodge No. 1798 in 1992 and of Fiat Lux Lodge No. 1717 in 2001, Fiat Lux Chapter No. 19 in 2007 and Fiat Lux Council in 2009. He served as Treasurer for all three Fiat Lux bodies until his untimely death. He was also a member of Joppa Lodge No. 35, where he served as Treasurer in 1995-1996. At the Grand Lodge, for many years, he was a Grand Lodge officer, Chairman of Masonic Education and Service Committee, Editor of the Voice of Freemasonry, and served on many other Grand Lodge Committees. This year, he was the Chairman of the Code Rewrite Committee.

He has left us a wealth of Masonic educational materials and a comprehensive Lodge Officers Manual, which he single-handedly prepared. For freely giving his time, talent, resources and for his unstinting service to our Grand Lodge, he was awarded the Valentine Reintzel Medal in 2000.

RWB Ander was raised to Yet, for RWB Ander, it was the sublime degree on OctoRWB Mickey Ander, 1932-2009 obvious he was not keen on ber 30, 1959 at Crossroads recognition. For him, excelLodge No. 696, in San Diego, California. His travels with lent work is its own reward and he did not spare any the US Navy, after becoming a Mason, enabled him to effort to accomplish any and all assignments. He could visit lodges throughout the world. During an extended be trusted and counted upon day and night; after all, his stay in Scotland, he affiliated with Lodge Innellan and Mas a on onic ssymbol was the anchor. personall Masonic orthern Toward. When he subsequently settled in no northern rd dL odge ge N o. 3 07,, in 07 O r beloved Ou be elo love ved ve d RWB RWB Ander has been removed from the Virginia, he affiliated with Concord Lodge No. 307, Our er in n 198 987. H e su ubssecare es and an nd troubles trou tr ou ubl b es e of this transitory existence to a state Vienna, where he served as Master 1987.

He subsecares ugl glas as Smith Smi m th h Lodge Lod dge g end ndle l ss le s d u attio May we who survive him be more ur quently served as Master of A. Douglas off endless duration. drria dria i , an nd la late terr stro st rong ng gly ly cemented cem of Research No. 1949 in Alexandria, and later strongly in the ties of union and friendse serv ervved the the he sh hip p, so so that, t as its long serving Secretary. He served ship, during the short space allotted apaaci citi ties ti es es herre we may wisely and usefully employ Grand Lodge of Virginia in many capacities uss here, Dist s ri st rict ct ou ur time, ti throughout his life, including as Di District our and in the exchange of kind and 4. f ie fr ien n Deputy Grand Master in 1993-1994. friendly acts mutually promote the welf re fa r and happiness of each other. fare soni so nc ni Notwithstanding his very active Masonic ed in i Mick Mi ck k life in Virginia, RWB Ander succeeded Mickey, good and faithful brother, we tio on, n willl miss you, but your memories will wi being fully engaged in our jurisdiction, will eve v ls alwa al wa be with us. May God bless you. ■ at both Grand Lodge and lodge levels always w s wa for more than 20 years. RWB Anderr was lwi winn na founding member of Sojourner Kilwin-

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DO WE TRULY GET IT?

Do We Truly Get It? The following appeared in the July 2009 Bulletin of Federal Lodge No. 1:

lodge footprint spanning 216 years of history gathers exceptional accomplishments. The peaks of Federal Lodge’s achievements mark our nation’s history with unique honor. But you know what else? Among and between them all, Ol Federal has done something more enormous than any single triumph. Federal Lodge No. 1 has done it not in one moment, but in the accumulation of years.

This Worshipful Lodge has crowned America’s good with… yes, wait for it… brotherhood. For over 216 years, Federal Lodge has spread the enlightenment of Masonry to thousands.

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Don’t stop reading now.

“Yes, yes, yes. The lodge has communicated the three degrees to a parading army of good men.” True.

But that’s not all. Receiving the degrees is the shower before the pool. The degrees are the entrance pass into the closed stacks of a protected library of sublime knowledge.

Lance Freedman Master, Federal Lodge No. 1

the great and subtle facets of his job. From day one, his performance is judged against the successes of longtime professionals.

The Masonic system of learning, and in particular Federal Lodge’s system, is better. At the core of the Craft, Masons are taught that life lessons are learned by experiencing them individually and personally.

Freemasonry also teaches us that any Brother newly invested with a jewel of office, shall embark upon that journey together with experienced human guidance.

For over two hundred years, officers and leaders of Federal Lodge have stepped forward to learn the unique lessons of each officer chair. When invested with the jewel of their office, most of Federal’s officers seat themselves in an unfamiliar role. Most officers of Ol Federal have no experience performing the time-honored Masonic duties of their new place in the Lodge. Some have learned the role as well as can be learned via watching, listening, and reading. But as we all know, and as stated earlier, only by living a lesson does a man truly “get it.”

Central life lessons are learned by experiencing them personally.

This worshipful lodge has graduated 215 years of officers and leaders. What precious few Brethren know is that each chair in the officer line teaches lessons unique to that chair.

During the third degree, we observe that Masonry recognizes the best way to teach a man something vital. Central life lessons are learned by experiencing them personally. Watching, listening, and reading are helpful. But by themselves they are insufficient teachers. Only by living a lesson does a man truly “get it.”

A “school of hard knocks” mentality pervades the profane world. We try to learn first by watching, listening, and reading. Then the non-Masonic world tosses us out of the learning nest, into a new role, and begins to mercilessly judge our performance. Every peer, every subordinate, and almost every superior in the profane world expects a man to snap into his position. A man is expected to flawlessly deliver all

In direct opposition to the profane world, our Masonic brotherhood is a kind and forgiving environment. For over 216 years, Brothers of this Worshipful Lodge have learned the powerful leadership lessons taught by performing the role in each officer’s chair. Officers have learned these ancient lessons in leadership not by the “school of hard knocks” and without harsh judgment. Federal Lodge in particular is known for our warm Brotherly Love. Errors and mistakes are quickly forgiven and rarely recorded.

Federal’s safe environment promotes the growth of every Brother. Each and every Brother who participates in Freemasonry steps up a certain level. In this way, each Brother advances himself. The particucontinued on page 29 The Voice of Freemasonry

27

BROTHERS TWICE OVER

Brothers Twice Over Affinity lodges provide brotherhood for common interests

by Richard Berman This article is reprinted courtesy of the California Freemason magazine

he requirements to become a Mason are fairly straightforward: Only men of at least 18 years of age who believe in a Supreme Being are eligible.

A number of specialized lodges around the world, however, also require that their members be dedicated to a specific cause or belong to an affiliated organization. These so-called “affinity lodges” were formed to provide brotherhood for men with common interests and help them develop deeper connections with each other and with the Craft. For these members, having a space to share their distinct set of interests is a vital expectation of the Masonic experience.

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college fraternity that promotes the virtues of courtly Southern culture. Confederate General Robert E. Lee, known for his gentlemanly behavior, is viewed by the Order as its spiritual founder. Fraternity Lodge was chartered in 2001, and is comprised of Masons who share the common experience of membership in any Greek letter society.

“We consider ourselves ‘brothers twice over,’” says Jordan Yelinek, past master of Magnolia Lodge. “We have Masons who share the common bond not only of Masonry, but also of Kappa Alpha Order.” Yelinek, 28, moved to San Francisco last year after completing his doctorate in cell biology The Arms of Magnolia Lodge No. 53 and a Yale, but says that the at Fraternity Lodge No. 54, gge e geographical distance is F.A.A.M. n a problem. “Magnonot l Lodge has more than lia 60 members, who live all over the country, and our officers live in places such as Florida, Mississippi, and Washington. We all fly to D.C. four times a year for our meetings.”

As is the case with all lodges, st st affinity lodges must receive a charter from a grand lodge. The United Grand Lodge of England has recognized several of these organizations, including Pioneer Lodge No. 9065 (affiliated with the scouting movement), Kindred Lodges Association (for Masons involved with youth work), Isthmian Lodge No. 4566 (for Masons who are passionate about sports), Old Cliftonian an Lodge No. 3340 (for former pupils and teachers at Clifton College), and the Lodge of Brothers In Arms (for military veterans only). There’s even Internet Lodge, which is open to Freemasons who have Internet access: The lodge boasts members in more than two dozen countries, including Andorra, Lebanon, Turkey, and Slovenia.

Here in the United States, affinity lodges are far less common. However, two prime examples are based in Washington D.C.: Magnolia Lodge No. 53 and Fraternity Lodge No. 54.

Magnolia Lodge was founded in 1996, and reserves membership to brothers of the Kappa Alpha Order, a The Voice of Freemasonry

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Yelinek says that his involvement with M Masonry actually goes baac to his days as an b back unde un der undergraduate at Yale. “I was part of the Council of Honor of Kappa Alpha Order, which is focused on learning about our laws and customs, and in the course of my research I found out that many of our founders were Masons,” he recalls.

“After attending some Kappa Alpha Order meetings in D.C., I met several men who were brothers in Magnolia Lodge, and I petitioned to join.”

Although the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia allows its lodges to use a number of rituals, Magnolia Lodge opts for the standard DC ritual. Nevertheless, the central role that Kappa Alpha Order plays in the lodge is evident at every turn, from the portrait of Robert E. Lee to the Confederate battle flags to the

BROTHERS TWICE OVER

Magnolia Lodge flag, which is based on the Order’s colors. In addition, members wear Kappa Alpha Order badges and ties as part of their standard attire.

“Masonry and Kappa Alpha Order are equally important to all of us, and we are lifelong brothers in both,” Yelinek says.

For these members, having a space to share their distinct set of interests is a vital expectation of the Masonic experience.

Because of the added eligibility requirement of the lodge, the brothers found that they couldn’t share their experiences with some friends, even if they were already Masons. As a result, Magnolia Lodge petitioned the formation of Fraternity Lodge, for Masons who are members of any Greek letter society. A number of Magnolia Lodge brothers now have membership in both lodges.

“We have members of many Greek organizations as brothers, and we find that they are very involved,” says Walter Hoenes, Assistant to the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, who

currently serves as secretary of Fraternity Lodge and also as an alumnus volunteer for the Sigma Phi Epsilon college fraternity. “All of us had great experiences in fraternities when we were in school, and Fraternity Lodge enables us to carry that love forward within the structure of Freemasonry.”

Like its parent lodge, Fraternity meets four times a year to dispense business and celebrate Festive Board (a traditional feast), which allows it to draw members from all over the country. “This is a great way for Masons to connect with each other and have a common experience,” says Hoenes. “Our brothers already had a strong commitment to fraternal organizations even before they became Masons, and our lodge gives them a way to maintain that involvement throughout their lives.” ■

Do We Truly Get It? continued from page 27

lars of what “advances” is uniquely personal within each man. Yet many of us grow in the same moral, political, and leadership-worthy ways. “The Square teaches morality; the Level, equality; and the Plumb, rectitude of life and conduct.”

The 216 plus continuous years and thousands of good men “crowned with Brotherhood” is the highest

accomplishment of this Worshipful Lodge. It is my sincere wish that each and every Brother continue living the vision set forth in 1793, at the chartering of Federal Lodge No. 1. You, dear Brethren, do this by stepping forward into degree roles, committee roles, and officer roles. Your time for watching, listening, and reading must progress into doing if you want to truly “get it.” ■

A Special Opportunity for Federal Employees: Please consider including the Masonic Foundation of the District of Columbia as part of your charitable giving to the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). The CFC number for the Masonic Foundation is 48808 and is listed in the “local agencies” section of this year’s campaign catalog.

If you are not a Federal Employee but know someone who is, please ask them to consider our Masonic Foundation.

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2009 LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

“A good leader inspires people to have confidence in their leader; a great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves.”

Leadership skills are an essential attribute of a Worshipful Master, if he is to succeed in governing his lodge. Too often, a Master’s year in the East ends before he becomes an effective leader. Therefore the Grand Lodge is pleased to offer this special leadership program for all Wardens and Deacons. While attendance at this Conference cannot guarantee your time in the East will be successful, it will afford you many opportunities to learn and appreciate the importance of leadership skills, interact with your counterparts from the many lodges within this grand jurisdiction, and expose you to ideas and solutions to challenges common to many of our lodges. Experienced Brothers will be available to offer suggestions and assist you in planning, programming and budgeting for your lodge’s activities.

Additionally, time will be set aside for the Section 83 evaluation for those wishing to fulfill our Grand Master’s desire that all 2010 Masters will have completed this requirement by the end of the Conference.

The presence and active participation of all Wardens and Deacons is strongly encouraged.

Please contact the Grand Lodge at (202) 686-1811 or grandlodge@dcgrandlodge.org for additional information.

We look forward to working with you for the good of the Craft in general and DC Freemasonry in particular.

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2009 GRAND VISITATION SCHEDULE

2009 Grand Visitation Schedule LODGE

LOCATION

DATE

LODGE

LOCATION

DATE

1 (Federal)

R

Mon., Sept. 14

45 (S. Gompers-B. Franklin)

T

Tues., Oct. 13

3 (Justice-Columbia)

S

Thurs., Oct. 1

47 (Petworth)

T

Thurs., Oct. 15

4 (Naval)

N

Thurs., Sept. 17

53 (Magnolia)

S

Tues., Sept. 15

5 (Potomac)

G

Mon., Sept. 21

54 (Fraternity)

N

Mon., Oct. 5

7 (Singleton-Hope-Lebanon)

S

Thurs., Oct. 1

76 (Cincinnatus)

G

Mon., Sept. 21

10 (Hiram-Takoma)

T

Thurs., Sept. 24

90 (Mehr)

G

Wed., Sept. 16

11 (St. John’s)

T

Thurs., Sept. 24

92 (Alianza Fratermal Americana)

N

Thurs., Sept. 17

12 (Nat’l-Stansbury-Dawson)

T

Thurs., Sept. 24

93 (La France)

G

Mon., Sept. 21

14 (Washington- Daylight)

N

Mon., Oct. 5

94 (Hayastan)

G

Wed., Sept. 16

15 (Benjamin B. French)

G

Wed., Sept. 16

1717 (Fiat Lux)

T

Sat., Oct. 17

17 (Harmony)

S

Thurs., Oct. 1

1775 (Freedom Military)

R

Mon., Sept. 14

19 (LaFayette-Dupont)

N

Thurs., Sept. 17

1776 (Nine Muses)

R

Thurs., Oct. 8

21 (Anacostia)

N

Mon., Oct. 5

1798 (Sojourner Kilwinning)

T

Sat., Sept. 26

23 (Osiris-Pentalpha)

T

Thurs., Oct. 15

2000 (Nur)

T

Wed., Oct. 14

25 (Arminius)

T

Wed., Oct. 14

2001 (Italia)

R

Mon., Sept. 14

32 (Temple-Noyes-Cathedral)

S

Tues., Sept. 15

3000 (Jerusalem)

R

Thurs., Oct. 8

33 (Albert Pike)

R

Thurs., Oct. 8

Convass B. Dean Memorial

T

Thurs., Oct. 15

34 (East Gate)

T

Tues., Oct. 13

Pythagoras Lodge of Research

T

Tues., Oct. 13

35 (Joppa)

S

Tues., Sept. 15

Location Key

Dress

(G) Georgetown . . . . . . 1212 Wisconsin Avenue, NW

Grand Lodge Officers will wear white tie and tails, white apron and gloves for all visitations. Lodge Officers and Past Grand Masters are requested to wear tuxedos. All others should wear coat, tie and regalia.

(N) Naval . . . . . . . . . . . 330 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE (R) Scottish Rite. . . . . . 2800 - 16th Street, NW (S) Singleton. . . . . . . . . 4441 Wisconsin Avenue, NW (T) Takoma . . . . . . . . . . 115 Carroll Street, NW

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The Voice of Freemasonry

NonProfit Org. US Postage

PAID Permit No. 207 Dulles, VA

OF WAS HI GE D

ON DC GT N

GRAND LO

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

Grand Lodge of Free And Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia Kwame Acquaah, Grand Master

Mansour Hatefi, Grand Secretary

The Many Faces of Leadership… Vision, Enthusiasm, Empathy

Bolger Conference Center 9600 Newbridge Drive

Potomac, MD 20854

FALL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE September 12-13, 2009 All Wardens and Deacons are encouraged to attend.