Sword and Trowel - March 2021

The Sword and Trowel is a monthly Newsletter published by the Grand Council Cryptic Masons of California and provides information to all Companions of Grand York Rite of California.

Table of Contents Table of Contents .....

Vision Statement .....

Very Special News .....

We be “NORMAL” .....

Future of our Councils is being made Today..

The Future is here .....

What is your Legacy? .....

Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation Secretary/Recorder Essentials .....

Grand Sessions .....

Editor’s Mumblings .....

ScholarShips .....

Contacts .....

Illustrious Grand Master Cryptic Masons: Grand Secretary/Recorder: .....................

Assistant Secretary/Recorder & Grand Treasurer: Website: ........ .........................................

Officers: Grand Council Cryptic Masons California Guidelines .....

Guideline for Council Opening ................

Happenings in our State & in a Galaxy far, far, Away Siminoff – Union City ..............................

General Grand Council ...........................

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Vision Statement

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Very Special News

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We be “NORMAL” Companions,

The biggest news of the day is that vaccines are beginning to be distributed and administered. The rollout of the vaccines seems to be progressing rather slowly but when the enormity of the entire project is considered, we can understand that problems will arise and will have to be dealt with. I am happy to report that Lady Pauline and I have received both the first and second inoculation for the Corona Virus. You would think that after being inoculated for this virus that life would return to normal. Such is not the case. We still must wear a masked to enter a store or the doctor’s office. We are not allowed to dine out inside of a restaurant or attend church or hold normal fraternal relations with all our brothers and sisters. Normal fraternal relations are the topic I would like to discuss in this issue of the Sword and Trowel.

Going forward after Covid-19 what will normal relations look like for all our masonic organizations. Masons were forced to find alternative methods of communicating following the March 2020 directive by Most Worshipful Grand Master John Trauner which eliminated face to face meetings for all masonic functions. At the time we were led to believe that this order to cease all masonic meetings would be a short-lived directive and normal relations would soon begin. Jump forward one year and we are still waiting for word that social organizations may resume meetings and gatherings. No definitive word has come down as to when we can resume normal activities so where do we go from here. I firmly believe that now that “the genie is out of the bottle” we will never fully return to normal. Every meeting I have attended, you hear someone say, I am really tired of all these “Zoom” meetings. At the same time during that same meeting, you see people that have not attended a function in a long time. Some members have moved out of the area and to travel such a long distance to attend some masonic meeting is out of the question, but through the miracle of electronic communications, there they are. Many of our more seasoned members are no longer comfortable to drive at night or drive at all and find the are unable to attend but once again with the help of a smart phone, tablet, or computer there they are. We know that not all our members have embraced technology and are not willing to spend the money required to get in touch with the web or internet, but I know that with some encouragement and a bit of training they too can be “surfing the web” in no time. We train for everything else so why not electronic communications? I would go so far as to say that before long lodges and other bodies will actually purchase electronic devices and distribute them to members that they may stay in contact. I do not have any crystal ball or any other fortune telling devices, but the way of the future is certainly clear. Technology is here to stay, and we will not be able to stop or eliminate it so my advice would be, let us embrace it for all its worth.

Robert Morrison and First Lady Pauline For now, please live smart and stay safe and we will survive these troubled times.

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Future of our Councils is being made Today Greetings from a little place my parents moved our family to back in 1977. I remember going on a field trip to see the Freedom Train in 1976, while attending Pittsburg High School. Then, to my surprise, my sophomore year began as a Eureka High School Logger.

This was a big change from what we thought was the big city to a small town. Back then, Eureka was a town bustling with logging trucks and fishing boats. Today, we do not see as many logging trucks nor fishing boats. Times in Eureka are just as subject to change as everything else. This is not unlike our fraternity or even each of us individually. Just a year ago, Lisa and I joined many other officers and their ladies for the annual Grand Officer’s conference in Visalia, a short 10-11 hour drive south for us. This year, our virtual meeting started at 10:00 AM and finished up at about 3:30. We accomplished a lot in those 5 or so hours and once it was completed and we all said our goodbyes, it was time to head home. What a pleasant drive that was! Sometimes the changes we face are so slow we can hardly see them, and sometimes change comes so fast it makes our heads spin. This new virtual way of staying in touch has many heads spinning. As frustrated as it makes us sometimes, it has also been a blessing. I would classify this frustration as the pain of change. The greatest thing about this pain of change is that as soon as we accept the change the pain is gone. I wish more things would vanish so easily and quickly. For many just thinking about a new way of doing something creates stress, uneasiness, or anxiety. What would happen if we were to categorize these new experiences a little differently? If we were to frame them as opportunities to enjoy and embrace something that can truly enrich our daily lives? This has already been happening and will continue to happen. If we were to stop and think of the changes we have made through our lives, the list would never end. We can all remember when we had to go to a bank to deposit a check, get up to change the channel on the TV, use the stove to pop popcorn - not the microwave. (I still use the stove). You get my point.

Technology is here to stay. I know that if you are challenged when it comes to the technology required by these types of meetings or events, there is a Companion, Sir Knight, or Brother willing to lend you a hand. Please just ask.

Given the choice to see our Companions virtually or not at all, I for one, look forward to this virtual platform. Now please, do not get me wrong, I will take a face-to-face meeting over a virtual meeting whenever possible, I just like having another choice if meeting in person is unavailable. Until we can meet in person again, I am enjoying the virtual landscape of California Masonry.

I know it is a little early to be looking for sunshine and warm weather, but now that the days are getting longer, I am looking forward to some springtime weather. The buds are starting to come out and the trees are beginning to bloom. It is a fresh new season we are looking at. It seems like we are also seeing a fresh new face on the way our fraternity interacts as well, and lately we hear about this often. I hear Companions talk about getting back to things the way they were. I am also looking forward to holding meetings again, having meals together, and holding degrees. When the time is right, we will return to the events we enjoy, but let’s not be surprised that we can augment these events with the technology we have implemented during this pandemic. Imagine attending an installation in Eureka in the morning and attending a dinner and presentation in San Diego the same evening. This is fantastic and it helps continue to bring our companions and councils closer together. We should remember that there are segments of our population that have grown up all their lives with this technology. As we continue to find ways to interact with these demographics, we will find ourselves with a whole new group of individuals looking for what we have already found.

Before I close, I would like to congratulate and thank all the officers that have either been recently installed or have chosen to stay for another year. Not only for all the work you have done to get to where you are, but also for looking at the times we are in and saying, I will do it and I can make a difference. Each one of us is responsible for the successes our councils will enjoy moving forward. These days we are going through now are making a permanent change in how our fraternity moves toward tomorrow.

The future of our councils is being made today.

Fraternally, RIC Jeffrey A. White, Grand Conductor of the Council Grand Council of Cryptic Masons

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The Future is here The Future Is Here My sympathies, love and concern to my Brother, Companion and the Grand Deputy Master of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons, Peter Champion, who has experienced a life changing stroke and is now recovering with the love and attention of his wife, Janice and family. We in the Grand Council family pray that he’ll be healthy by May 8, the date of the virtual Grand Council Session, at which he would be installed as the Most Illustrious Grand Master, God willing.

Recently, the Grand Council officers have been discussing the long period of service until the appointed Officer reaches the high level of Most Illustrious Grand Master. The progressive line of the Grand Council had begun at the Sentinel’s station and proceeded each year for seven years, when he becomes the ‘Most’. We’ve shortened the line by one year making the beginning position that of the Steward’s station and that seems better. Still a large commitment of time and dedication, but that’s how we feel is appropriate preparation for the person who is to lead our Grand Council throughout the State of California. Please hold your prayers in your heart for Right Illustrious Companion Peter Champion to fully recover.

We face many challenges when we are again allowed to assemble as Masons. Wearing masks for sure but on the bright side we contract less flu virus. Washing our hands has several obvious benefits but leaves us with dry, chapped hands. The six-foot distance between us guide, while polite, is going to make it harder to confer our Degrees. Within these rules let me offer a solution, which may allow us to confer the Degrees safely and interestingly.

As our Degrees are taught through allegory and lectures, we are also guided along by a conductor. This can be accomplished with a virtual reality headset, pre-recorded to the appropriate Degree and with excellent ritual. We’d need one headset for each candidate but the expense is coming down. Certainly, we will require privacy for the ritual and accuracy conferring it but imagine the possibilities. Personalized guidance, background scenery and music accompany the experience and each candidate gets an experience they will long remember. We’ll need some Hollywood production to make the programs but we have the talent within our fraternity.

Education articles, no problem, taught with pictures and virtual images to more completely cover the subject than ever before. And there is even a fun factor for playing games and dueling with one another. But there is a downside. The virtual reality headset is a solo experience and however the experience, there is no actual relationship person to person.

For this, we go back to our pandemic restrictions and talk about what just happened. But think about the many ways this VR can be applied.

In another vein, we’ll need instruction about how to be an Officer of the Council and the duties each requires. This can be taught with webcast meetings designed to the task, and with one excellent instructor can be replayed over and over.

The future is here, be creative, let’s adapt.

Guy M. Chalmers, GPCW

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What is your Legacy?

What is your legacy?

I am a great believer in not reinventing the wheel. If you see something being done well, take note. If you see failure, take note. Build upon success. It is a solid foundation. Webster's dictionary defines legacy as, “anything handed down from the past, as from an ancestor or predecessor.” Legacy is not bound by age or time served When we choose an endeavor to become a Mason, or even more specifically, to become a Cryptic Mason officer, we need to know that this distinguishment comes with an implied responsibility. People become expectant of our skill and/or effort. A lack of that may lead to a reflection on the men who mentored us in Masonry, whose best efforts were in vain, and to you as leaders who failed to see a larger picture on those nights you occupied a chair reserved in your good name.

Almost 30 years ago I chose to become a Mason. When I reflect back upon my original Master WB Ed Bergeron, my first three coaches, and District Inspector, WB Albert Donici, I hope that I have reflected well on their combined efforts. Today, these men are in their 80’s & 90’s. I still think of them often and have said “Thank you” with every opportunity.

I have been an officer in some Masonic Line almost every day of those 30 years, including today, as High Priest of Doric Chapter 66, Royal Arch Masons, my 5th term over 20 years. Nothing has changed for me. The Standard of Excellence is all I care about. It is what I was taught as a young Mason from each of those men, and it is what I will endeavor to share with others.

These rules of life I have learned: • • • • • • • •

it is okay to ask for help, Never settle to be mediocre, Step outside your Comfort Zone, Don’t be embarrassed to be different, Learn and acknowledge your mistakes, Learn from history, pass it down, Adapt to change, find a solution, and Dare to be the best.

Recognize your team, share success Once I was a young man, who walked through a Lodge door of Masonry. I didn’t know anyone in the room, but a friendly smile greeted me and asked if I had a place to sit. Soon, I had several new friends and was invited to participate in small ways. The inclusion was what I came looking for. Their laughter and friendship were infectious.

Because we were happy our small circle grew larger. These men had pride in what they did. They knew and learned their roles. They always showed up. They required me to memorize any roles I accepted with all seriousness, yet when the work was done, we all went out, dined and laughed together as friends.

Years later, I am now one of those men. My old friends, whether passed on or still around, are still my huge heroes. They each make up a part of the man I am today. I am their legacy.

What is your legacy? Do you truly mentor a younger man, in age or station? Have you stood up from your comfortable chair to smile, welcome, and acknowledge a stranger in your midst? Did you invite him to sit with you? Did you introduce him to others and make him feel truly welcome and included?

That stranger was you once upon a time, never forget that. All of us stand on the shoulders of those men who came before us. The best of us listens and pay attention to their stories and instructions.

This is how we carefully pick our teachers and role models.

Why Cryptic Masonry? Masonry is like a beautiful book of many Chapters. In the Blue Lodge we learn of what was lost. In Capitular Masonry, we learn of ancient buildings and the Marks that substituted for written signatures handed down from father to son. We also learn of the recovery of that which was thought lost. However, there are chapters between these that bridge “what was lost, is now found”, and we learn of Preservation. We learn about the triangle of lights placed as instructed

by King Solomon nearest the Altar. We hear Hiram Abif giving valuable life lessons to Adonirum, in the event of his death. The most beautiful part is the Apron Lecture at the very end of the Select Master. This gives us the analogy of our life well spent. The apron, unstained, which we wear as Masons.

We learn of our apron worn within the confines of our Lodge Room, taking its symbolism home and worn within our hearts, in our daily life. This way we might know that when we take our completed life’s work, the rough ashlar, polished over time into that perfect ashlar, and present it to the Creator, He will take it and say “this is a beautiful piece of work, true work, square work” Sword & Trowel

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Why would you not want to become a Cryptic Mason? Leave your life’s impression by helping others become that better man because they knew you. Give them that solid foundation to stand upon. It will reflect well upon you.

This should be your legacy.

Travel well my Brothers! I hope you enjoyed this small piece.

By: Robert A.L. Whitfield MIPGM California KYGCH, EKA, OSV, KCT

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Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation

Donating to CMMRF is as Easy as Shopping As of August 2020, the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation (CMMRF) has received only $1,451.68 from AmazonSmile, out of the $216 Million the AmazonSmile Foundation has donated to other charities. Why so little? Because our companions haven’t designated CMMRF as their charity with AmazonSmile.

With no additional out-of-pocket cost, you can increase your donation to (CMMRF). If you intend to make online purchases from Amazon for the coming holidays or if you have groceries delivered due to the pandemic, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase price to CMMRF, AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. AmazonSmile is a simple way for you to support our favorite charity every time you shop at Amazon. AmazonSmile is available at smile.amazon.com on your web browser and can be activated in the Amazon Shopping app for Android and iOS phones. When you shop at AmazonSmile, you’ll find the exact same prices and selection as Amazon.com, with the added benefit that the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of your purchase price (minus any rebates and excluding shipping & handling, gift-wrapping fees, or taxes) to the charitable organization of your choice.

You use the same account on Amazon.com and AmazonSmile. Your shopping cart, Wish List, wedding or baby registry, and other account settings are also the same.

Here's how to sign up for AmazonSmile 1.

2.

3.

4.

Visit smile.amazon.com.

Sign in with your Amazon.com credentials.

Type in a Search box, Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation.

Select the charity.

Your price is identical with or without the donation, so sign up for the automatic donations to CMMRF and sign up your lady as well. Once you have chosen the charity, it will show up at the top of the page whenever you sign into Smile.Amazon.com.

Right Illustrious Companion Peter G. Champion, KYCH, & Lady Janice Deputy Grand Master, Grand Council Cryptic Masons San Luis Obispo Council No. 38 Note: We switched to smile.amazon.com and have generated $1.73 for Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation. Yea, I know, that is not a lot of money but for me it is, since we do not use Amazon much. Switch to smile.amazon.com, if you spend a lot or if you spend a little, the money generated will go to Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation (CCMRF).

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Secretary/Recorder Essentials Forms & Documents: located at Grand York Rite website: Grand York Rite of California.

Click on "Special Documents.”

Click on Grand Council Documents (In white). You will be presented with a screen (links):

•

Grand Council COVID-19 Response

•

Council Budget

•

Council "pdf" Forms (fillable) Please use these pdf forms and if you find any errors, please notify web master as to error.

•

Council Proceedings

•

Council Questionnaires for Dias Officers

•

Council Resolutions

•

Close Full Form Cryptic Masons Illustrious Master of the Year - Report Card Thrice Illustrious Masters Petition Elected Representative Proxy Credentials Elected Representatives Credential 2019 Grand Sessions Results

•

2020 Ample Form Usage by ADR & Inspectors 2020 Election Procedures

1. Dues Collection: You should send out dues’ notices no later than October, with payments from members due by December 31st. MMS Database is used by Grand Recorder for per-capita billing to each Council of Cryptic Masons, with data updated by December 31.

2. Membership control: MMS Database is used to compute amount of per capita Council needs to pay.

Billing is accomplished by Grand Recorder & payment is due by Jan 15th each year. Important changes to your membership include new members, demits, remits & deaths. Maintain e-mail addresses for members & you can easily then forward monthly newsletter, Workman (Royal Arch Masons) & Sword & Trowel (Cryptic Masons) to them.

3. Do not cavalierly suspend members for non-payment of dues. There is a Constitutional process that should be followed rigorously in order that members, who may have moved & not received your dues notice, are treated fairly. See following sections of relevant Constitution in order to learn about this process: Section 30-10. SUSPENSION FOR NON-PAYMENT OF DUES. 1. Any member whose dues & assessments are unpaid for a period of 12 months may be considered for suspension.

2. Prior to such suspension, Recorder, at first Stated Assembly following first day of August of each year, shall furnish to Illustrious Master a list of members who have not paid current dues & assessments. Such members, if possible, shall be personally contacted with reference thereto by Illustrious Master, Deputy Master, Principal Conductor of Work or member appointed for this purpose, who shall report thereupon at next Stated Assembly.

3. Members who have not paid current year's dues & assessments by last day of October, & for whom remission of dues has not been recommended by Illustrious Master, shall be notified by Recorder under seal of Council by first class mail to his last known address that either his dues for current year be paid or cause shown for such failure or he may be subjected to suspension by Council at last Stated Assembly of year. Council may, by vote, suspend such members effective 31st day of December, provided their dues have not been received & no action has been taken to remit dues for that cause.

4. Per Capita: Per-capita is billed to each Council by Grand Recorder. Per Capita payment, due each Jan 15th, does not require action by Council to be paid.

5. Insurance: You will be billed for Insurance payment by Grand Secretary-Recorder. Insurance payment, due each July 15th, does not require action by Chapter, Council or Commandery to be paid.

6. Minutes: Take good minutes, but don’t over-do it by trying to capture everything that is said. Focus on having a clear representation of motions made & vote count by which they passed or failed. In addition to keeping petitions in a separate file, it is good practice to replicate basic petitioner information in minutes. It is also a good practice to keep names of attendees at each meeting in minutes. If conferring a degree, keep a copy of cast members & candidate(s).

7. Grand Sessions: Before April meeting, remind Dais officers they are responsible to attend, & arrange a stipend if your Chapter, Council or Commandery can afford it. Remind members who expect to attend to be sure to take their dues cards. If Dais Officers cannot attend, they may issue a proxy, or they may elect a representative. This is true also for Commanderies, whose members cannot issue proxies. Appropriate forms can be obtained on Grand York Rite website: Scroll to "Elected Representative & Proxy Credentials."

8. Grand Council of Thrice Illustrious Masters of California: Be sure current Illustrious Master & Illustrious Past Masters’ know they are eligible to receive this Order. Share petition with them & send to Grand Recorder. Petitions for all three bodies are available at website.

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Grand Sessions With COVID-19 restrictions still in place, the 2021 Grand York Rite Sessions will be virtual meetings only.

These will take place on three consecutive Saturdays in May. •

•

Saturday, May 8th: o

The Grand York Rite of California Annual Corporation meeting at 8:00 AM (tiled session)

o

The Grand Council of Cryptic Masons Annual Assembly at 10:00 AM (tiled session)

o

The Grand Council public awards and Installation at 2:00 PM (open to all)

Saturday, May 15th: o

•

Grand Commandery, Knights Templar Annual Conclave on May 15th at 10:00 AM (tiled session)

Saturday, May 22nd: o

Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons Annual Convocation at 9:00 AM (tiled session)

o

Grand Chapter public awards and Installation at 2:00 PM (open to all)

Each event, listed above, has its own link for attendance and will be emailed to you. In all cases, the respective virtual rooms will be opened 30 minutes prior to the event to allow the hosts to admit the participants.

The morning sessions are all tiled and as such you will need to sign in with your name that matches your registration form in order to be admitted. Please be dressed for these virtual sessions as you would be if attending in person.

All of the registrations are online (no paper forms) this year. The Grand Sessions website www.ca-gyrs.org has the links to register for the sessions. Deadlines for registering are one week prior to the event for all VOTING members (to allow the credential committees to vet and prepare). All other attendees may register up to three days prior to the event. Membership validation will be required for the tiled meetings, so please register early. All three bodies will be voting on legislation this year. The website www.ca-gyrs.org has the Proxy / Elected Official Forms that must be filled out and submitted to the Grand York Rite Office if the Dais Officers are unable to attend the Sessions.

Also available on the website is the Souvenir Program Ad Request Form. We continue our tradition for you to advertise your business, organizations, congratulatory messages, etc. in our Souvenir Program. As it was last year, this will be available in PDF format for downloading after the Sessions, which will include the results of the Sessions. And because this produced electronically, this will be a full color program. You are authorized to vote to pay for the advertisements in your Chapter, Council and Commandery virtual meetings. The deadline for accepting the Ad requests is on May First.

To register for The Grand York Rite of California Annual Corporation meeting on May 8th, The Grand Council of Cryptic Masons in CA Annual Assembly & Installation on May 8th, and/or The Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons in CA Annual Convocation in CA on May 22nd. Please click on this link Reservations for the Grand Commandery Annual Conclave on May 15th are at this link

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Editor’s Mumblings We must always be Masons, no matter withersoever dispersed. I have been a Mason, according to the Grand Lodge of California, for 41+ years but it actually seems like yesterday.

Now why would I bring this up, my 41+years as a Mason. I attend the weekly Lodi Lodge No. 256 Zoom Social Meetings. The Master made a statement about Zoom and waited for someone to but in and I did. I made the statement I do not like Zoom as we should meet in person and Master said he had written Grand Lodge that Masons who have received the COVID vaccination should be able to meet with the proper precautions. Again, I voiced my opinion is that would be separating Masons, those who have received vaccinations, those who wish not to receive the Vaccination, and those who have to wait for Doctor’s permission to received Vaccination. I received permission today and received my shot at 10:45am at Kaiser. Again, I do not like Zoom but I believe Zoom is great for Masons. Lodge attendance is low, York Rite attendance is low but I notice on these Zoom calls, attendance is rising. We have people signing on from Cars, those that have the proper equipment, heck my car will answer my cell phone. Masons attend Zoom calls from work, Masons attend Zoom calls who cannot drive at night or again live far away from the Lodge. For these reasons I love Zoom and this caused discussions, all in the affirmative. We do have greater attendance on Lodge Zoom calls.

Anytime Masons meet is fantastic, even over Zoom. Zoom does not leave anyone out, all can attend, those who live far away, even Iowa, Texas, those who cannot travel at night, those who have to stay home to take care of loved ones, this new era is fantastic. Let’s move forward and embrace our electronic age. You do not need a computer for Zoom, just pick up your cell phone and attend a Masonic meeting. You do not need a cell phone, pick up your land line phone that works also.

Maybe, some time soon, a Masonic Genius will write a Zoom for Masons, where we can actually do signs and so forth. Just think of the fantastic Zoom Calls, Zoom with lodges in England, France, Japan, anywhere, the possibilities are unlimited. EMBRACE

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ScholarShips Companions, Your children, grandchildren, & for some, great-grandchildren may receive financial help for attending school. After opening up Scholarship Center website, have them go to bottom of page & find the Scholarship Manual in (PDF format – 450KB) to download.

There they will find instructions for filling out the forms.

This is the link which will take you to the public Grand Lodge web page on scholarships. All the information you need should be right there. This is a complete manual that you can download that talk about all of the scholarships available from the California Masonic Foundation as well as the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Eastern Star, High Twelve, DeMolay, Job’s Daughters, & Rainbow for Girls.

Contacts Illustrious Grand Master Cryptic Masons: Most Illustrious Companion, Robert Morrison, KYGCH & Lady Pauline Grand Master Grand Council Cryptic Masons of California Butte Council No. 50

Grand Secretary/Recorder: Philip Hardiman, OSV, KYGCH, PGHP Grand Secretary Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons California, Grand Recorder, Grand Council Cryptic Masons California, & Grand Recorder, Grand Commandery Knights Templar California 1123 J Street Sacramento, CA 95814

Assistant Secretary/Recorder & Grand Treasurer: Thomas Krummell, KYCH 1123 J Street Sacramento, CA 95814

Website: Richard E. Thornton, KYCH

Grand York Rite of California Note: Hyperlinks or links to other pages or web sites are prevalent throughout the document.

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Officers: Grand Council Cryptic Masons California We, the officers of Grand Council of Cryptic Masons will visit you & ask “May We Help”?

Most Illustrious Companion Robert A. Morrison, KYGCH & Lady Pauline Grand Master, Cryptic Masons of California Butte Council No. 50 Right Illustrious Companion Peter G. Champion, KYCH & Lady Janice Deputy Grand Master Grand Council Cryptic Masons San Luis Obispo Council No. 38 Right Illustrious Companion Thomas A. Krummell, KYCH & Lady Marcia Grand Treasurer, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Sierra Nevada Council No. 13

Right Illustrious Companion Guy M. Chalmers, KYCH & Lady Jeanne Grand Principle Conductor of the Work Grand Council Cryptic Masons Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Right Illustrious Companion Philip Hardiman, KYGCH, PGHP, & Lady Nancy Grand Recorder, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Sacramento Council No. 1

Right Illustrious Companion K. Mark Harris, KYCH Grand Director of Ritual, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Oakland Council No. 12 Right Illustrious Companion Michael T. Sherman, KYCH Grand Captain of the Guard Grand Council Cryptic Masons Helix Council No. 58 Right Illustrious Companion Andrew B. Pippin, KYCH, & Lady Juli Grand Steward, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Ventura Council No. 15 Right Illustrious Companion Arthur H. Walton, KYCH & Lady Patricia Grand Chaplin-North, Grand Council Cryptic Masons California Council No. 2 Right Illustrious Companion John L Copper III, KYGCH, & Lady Heather Grand Orator Grand Council Cryptic Masons Sierra Nevada Council No. 13 Right Illustrious Companion Jarrod D. Washington, KYCH & Lady Melissa Grand Marshal-North Grand Council Cryptic Masons Sierra Nevada Council No. 13 Right Illustrious Companion Matt Hyde & Lady Nicole Grand Bible Bearer Grand Council Cryptic Masons Omega Council No. 11

Right Illustrious Companion Jeffrey A. White, KYCH & Lady Lisa Grand Conductor of the Council Grand Council Cryptic Masons Pacific Council No. 37 Right Illustrious Companion Richard E. Thornton, KYCH, Lady Cara Grand Sentinel, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Stockton Council No. 5 Right Illustrious Companion Christian G. Marano, KYCH & Lady Mara Grand Chaplin-South, Grand Council Cryptic Masons San Luis Obispo Council No. 38 Right Illustrious Companion Thomas A. Krummell, KYCH, & Lady Marcia Assistant Grand Secretary Grand Council Cryptic Masons Sierra Nevada Council No. 13 Right Illustrious Companion Robert K. Geiger & Lady Luisa Grand Marshal-South Grand Council Cryptic Masons Adoniram-Whittier Council No. 53 Right Illustrious Companion Mike Edwards & Lady Cindi Grand Standard Bearer Grand Council Cryptic Masons Marysville Council No. 3

Right Illustrious Companion Merrick R. Hamer Grand Organist, Grand Council Cryptic Masons Alpha Council No. 39

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Guidelines

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Guideline for Council Opening

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Volume 8 No. 10

Page 23 of 29

Happenings in our State & in a Galaxy far, far, Away Siminoff – Union City

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 24 of 29

General Grand Council

The Decryption - News from Cryptic Masons International February 4, 2021 Vol 5, Issue 26

Just a LATTE a Month

CMMRF Day: March 6, 2021 Read More...

$5 per Month Works Miracles!

Our Goal: 1000 Participants Give up a coffee a month or more to help medical research through the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation.

You can make a step to support our Masonic Charity by setting up recurring giving here:

https://www.crypticmasons.org/cmmrf/donatenow

AWARDS Grand York Rite of Utah Educational Series: February 18, 2020 at 7pm MDT (GMT-6) Read More...

The following individuals have been recognized with Cryptic Awards recently. Articles regarding the presentation are linked to each name. No new recognition reports this week, send your reports through this form (This form requires a Google Login). If you don not have one, you can contact us here

All Recognition News Articles

CALENDARS We have remodeled and are updating our calendaring system. Check it out!

NATIONAL CALENDAR

Passing of MIC Kenneth E. Dyer, 1942-2021 Read More...

Rather see a listing by category (and including local events that are reported to us):

CMMRF EVENTS CONFERENCE EVENTS GRAND YORK RITE EVENTS GRAND LODGE EVENTS FESTIVAL EVENTS Don't see your event here?

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(You must have an account on the website. All events will be reviewed and verified before publishing.)

SUBMIT EVENTS

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 25 of 29

The Decryption - News from Cryptic Masons International February 12, 2021 Vol 5, Issue 27 The Chamber of Reflection: A Revitalized and Misunderstood Practice Presented by Roberto Sanchez and the Grand York Rite of Utah Thursday February 18, 2021 at 7pm MDT Registration Link

Just a LATTE a Month

CMMRF Fundraisers via Facebook Read More...

$5 per Month Works Miracles!

Our Goal: 1000 Participants Give up a coffee a month or more to help medical research through the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation.

You can make a step to support our Masonic Charity by setting up recurring giving here:

https://www.crypticmasons.org/cmmrf/donatenow

AWARDS Northwest Regional Recorder's Meeting - February 4, 2021 Read More...

The following individuals have been recognized with Cryptic Awards recently. Articles regarding the presentation are linked to each name. No new recognition reports this week, send your reports through this form (This form requires a Google Login). If you don not have one, you can contact us here

All Recognition News Articles

CALENDARS

Southwest Regional Recorder's Meeting - February 4, 2021 Read More...

We have remodeled and are updating our calendaring system. Check it out!

NATIONAL CALENDAR Rather see a listing by category (and including local events that are reported to us):

CMMRF EVENTS CONFERENCE EVENTS GRAND YORK RITE EVENTS GRAND LODGE EVENTS FESTIVAL EVENTS

The Solution, The Secret Vault Read More...

Don't see your event here?

Please let us know!

(You must have an account on the website. All events will be reviewed and verified before publishing.)

SUBMIT EVENTS

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 26 of 29

The Decryption - News from Cryptic Masons International February 18, 2021 Vol 5, Issue 28 The Chamber of Reflection: A Revitalized and Misunderstood Practice Presented by Roberto Sanchez and the Grand York Rite of Utah Thursday Feburary 18, 2021 at 7pm MDT Registration Link

CMMRF Giving Update

CMMRF Area Coordinators Read More.

General Grand Master's Fire-Side Chat: Sunday February 28, 2020 at 3pm MDT (GMT-6) Read More...

Just a LATTE a Month

MIC Danny Wofford, Columbian Award Read More...

$5 per Month Works Miracles!

Our Goal: 1000 Participants Give up a coffee a month or more to help medical research through the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation.

You can make a step to support our Masonic Charity by setting up recurring giving here:

https://www.crypticmasons.org/cmmrf/donatenow

AWARDS

Esoterics and the York Rite of Freemasonry February 23, 2021 7pm CST (GMT-5) Read More...

The following individuals have been recognized with Cryptic Awards recently. Articles regarding the presentation are linked to each name. No new recognition reports this week, send your reports through this form (This form requires a Google Login). If you don not have one, you can contact us here

All Recognition News Articles

CALENDARS We have remodeled and are updating our calendaring system. Check it out!

NATIONAL CALENDAR

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 27 of 29

Southeast Regional Recorder's Meeting - February 10, 2021 Read More...

Rather see a listing by category (and including local events that are reported to us):

CMMRF EVENTS CONFERENCE EVENTS GRAND YORK RITE EVENTS GRAND LODGE EVENTS FESTIVAL EVENTS Don't see your event here?

Please let us know!

(You must have an account on the website. All events will be reviewed and verified before publishing.)

SUBMIT EVENTS

The Decryption - News from Cryptic Masons International February 25, 2021 Vol 5, Issue 29 General Grand Master's Fire-Side Chat Sunday February 28, 2021 at 3pm MDT Registration Link

CMMRF Giving Update

CMMRF Fundraising in hallenging Times Read More...

Passing of MIC Patrick A. Curtis Read More...

Just a LATTE a Month

7South Central Regional Recorder's Meeting-February 17, 2021 Read More...

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

$5 per Month Works Miracles!

Our Goal: 1000 Participants Give up a coffee a month or more to help medical research through the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation.

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 28 of 29

You can make a step to support our Masonic Charity by setting up recurring giving here:

https://www.crypticmasons.org/cmmrf/donat e-now

AWARDS Northeast Regional Recorder's Meeting-February 11, 2021 Read More...

The following individuals have been recognized with Cryptic Awards recently. Articles regarding the presentation are linked to each name. No new recognition reports this week, send your reports through this form (This form requires a Google Login). If you don not have one, you can contact us here

All Recognition News Articles

CALENDARS We have remodeled and are updating our calendaring system.

Check it out!

NATIONAL CALENDAR Rather see a listing by category (and including local events that are reported to us):

CMMRF EVENTS CONFERENCE EVENTS GRAND YORK RITE EVENTS GRAND LODGE EVENTS FESTIVAL EVENTS Don't see your event here?

Please let us know!

(You must have an account on the website. All events will be reviewed and verified before publishing.)

SUBMIT EVENTS

Sword & Trowel

March 2021

Volume 8 No. 10

Page 29 of 29