Michigan Masons Cornerstone Summer 2024

CORNERSTONE

Michigan Masons

SUMMER 2024 ISSUE 14

Revitalizing Freemasonry

Engaging Our Lodges with the Community

Inclusive Initiatives

Alma College and Michigan Masonic Home Partner for New Program

Protecting Our Future

The Michigan Masonic Child ID Program's Commitment to Community Safety

OUR MASONIC HEARTBEAT: CAPTURING YOUR COMMUNITY

Zion #1

Bridgeport #258

Mount Clemens #6

Ann Arbor-Fraternity #262

Battle Creek #12

Vandalia #290

Phoenix #13

Horton #293

St. Albans #20

Lake Shore #298

Hillsdale #32

Napoleon #301

Lansing #33

Wabon #305

Grand Rapids #34

South Lyon #319

Siloam #35

Evart #320

Birmingham #44

Doric #342

Orion-Oxford #46

Hickory #345

Plymouth Rock #47

Grayling #356

Hastings #52

Palestine #357

Port Huron #58

St. Ignace #369

Cedar #60

Luther - Lakes #370

Tecumseh #69

West Branch #376

Livingston #76

Crystal Falls-Iron River #385

Saginaw #77

Bellaire #398

Byron #80

James A. Cliff #424

Wayne #112

Swartz Creek #458

Hamilton #113

Royal Oak #464

Stockbridge #130

Sojourners #483

Linden #132

West Gate-Cyrus #520

Livonia United #152

Roseville #522

Coloma #162

Walled Lake #528

Milford #165

Lincoln Park - Ionic #539

Parma #183

Goodrich #548

Palmyra #184

Center Line #550

Vienna #205

Trelum #552

Athens #220

Grand Blanc #571

Traverse City #222

Houghton Lake/Roscommon #579

Mt. Moriah #226 Corinthian #241 Alma #244 Brighton #247 Okemos #252

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Solomon's Key #580 Garden City #587 Golden Ark #595

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Congratulations to the following lodges who raised Master Masons in February through June!

03 04

Summer Greetings from the Grand Master

Michigan Masonic Home Partners with Alma College

06 07

Engaging Our Lodges In the Community

The Value of FamilyOriented Lodges

08

Protecting Our Children: Child ID Program

10

Guiding Lights: Shaping Leaders and Servants

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Summer 2024

Summer Greetings FROM THE NEWEST GRAND MASTER OF MICHIGAN

D

ear Brethren, as we gather in our lodges, bound by the sacred ties of Freemasonry, I invite each of you to pause and reflect on your personal journey within our Craft. Think back to the moment when you first stepped across the threshold, the anticipation and curiosity that filled your heart, and the solemn obligation you took upon yourself.

Our fraternity has a rich history, steeped in tradition and guided by timeless principles. But it is not enough to merely uphold the past; we must also look to the future. As your Most Worshipful Grand Master, I am committed to fostering a better fraternity for all, and I seek your help in this noble endeavor.

I welcome you to start building bridges, with me, your members, other lodges… share ideas, collaborate! Let us strengthen our bonds; by working together we can achieve more than we ever could alone. You are the heartbeat, the lifeblood of this organization; you are what is connecting us across time and tradition.

where I will be eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and commitment to this honorable cause.

Fraternally yours,

Eugene E. Abbaticchio Grand Master of Michigan

Brothers, let us be architects of positive change. Together, we can build a fraternity that stands as a beacon of light, illuminating the path for generations to come. I invite you to attend one of my upcoming Town Hall meetings

TOWN HALL MEETINGS: FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH LANSING TEMPLE, 7:00 P.M. MONDAY, AUGUST 12TH BATTLE CREEK TEMPLE, 7:00 P.M. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21ST LAPEER #54, 7:00 P.M. SATURDAY, AUGUST 24TH ROSEVILLE TEMPLE, 2:00 P.M. Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Summer 2024

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INCLUSIVE INITIATIVES: MICHIGAN MASONIC HOME AND ALMA COLLEGE TEAM UP FOR COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT

T

he Michigan Masonic Home recently received a special invitation from Alma College to participate in an innovative pilot program aimed at fostering community engagement and inclusivity. This program, titled "Belonging and Inclusion," involves first-year college students interacting with local organizations, including the Michigan Masonic Home, to understand their contributions to the community.

Alma College has partnered with various local affiliates, businesses, and programs to facilitate this initiative.

The primary objective is to introduce fifteen to twentyfive students to the Michigan Masonic Home, where they will engage with residents and staff. Through these interactions, students will gain insights into the services and benefits provided by the Michigan Masonic Home to the city of Alma.

The core philosophy behind the pilot program is to encourage students to establish meaningful relationships within the community. By spending time at the Michigan Masonic Home, students will not only learn about its history and mission, but also experience firsthand the challenges and rewards of community involvement. This experiential learning opportunity is designed to broaden students' Page 4

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Summer 2024

BELONGING & INCLUSION

perspectives and deepen their understanding of the importance of belonging and inclusion in society.

Scheduled to commence at the end of August, the program will begin with an orientation session for students. During this session, they will receive comprehensive information about the history, values, and ongoing initiatives of the Michigan Masonic Home. Following the orientation, students will embark on a guided tour of the campus, acquainting themselves with the various facilities and services offered.

Reflecting on the partnership, Carla Jensen, CoDirector of Alma College Center for College and Community Engagement, stated: "Working with the Michigan Masonic Home, from our position at Alma College, is a pleasure. It provides our students with opportunities to engage, learn, and grow with our local community, and puts Masonic residents and staff in touch with the next generation of leaders. We hope to continue working together and deepening this connection well into the future."

For the Michigan Masonic Home, participating in this pilot program represents a valuable opportunity to reconnect with the community and its members following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By welcoming Alma College students into their environment, they aim to bridge generational divides, share wisdom and experiences, and highlight the significance of mutual support and inclusivity.

LEFT: THE THOMAS ANDISON CHAPEL, LOCATED ON ALMA COLLEGE'S CAMPUS, PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALMA COLLEGE. TOP: MICHIGAN MASONIC HOME RESIDENT, JANE TODD, ENJOYING AN OUTING. MIDDLE: CARLA JENSEN, CO-DIRECTOR OF ALMA COLLEGE CENTER FOR COLLEGE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, PHOTOGRAPHED

BY ALMA COLLEGE. BOTTOM: MICHIGAN MASONIC HOME MAIN ENTRANCE.

Through collaborative initiatives like the "Belonging and Inclusion" program, Alma College and the Michigan Masonic Home reaffirm their commitment to fostering a supportive community where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can thrive.

As students embark on their journey to explore the complexities of belonging and inclusion, they will undoubtedly enrich their academic experience while leaving a positive impact on the Michigan Masonic Home and the broader Alma community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING THE MICHIGAN MASONIC HOME, CONTACT OUTREACH & MEMBER CARE AT (800) 321-9357.

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Summer 2024

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F

reemasonry has long been celebrated for its rich history of fellowship, intricate rituals, and pathways to personal growth. Yet, in recent years, many lodges have faced challenges with declining attendance at meetings. To rejuvenate our fraternity and forge stronger bonds with our communities, it is imperative that we actively engage our lodges through thoughtful programs and initiatives.

Engaged lodges also have a significant impact on their communities. By organizing events, supporting local causes, and collaborating with other organizations, Masons demonstrate their commitment to service and contribute positively to societal needs.

HARNESSING PROGRAM RESOURCES

WHY ENGAGE?

REVITALIZING FREEMASONRY: ENGAGING OUR LODGES WITH THE COMMUNITY

One of the primary reasons to actively engage our lodges is to foster membership growth. When lodges participate in community events and initiatives, they not only become more visible, but also approachable.

This visibility encourages potential candidates to explore Freemasonry, drawn by the values and sense of community they witness.

HOW CAN YOU ENGAGE?

Moreover, engagement ensures the vitality of our lodges. A vibrant lodge is characterized by active participation in rituals, discussions, and social activities. Regular attendance cultivates a sense of belonging among Brethren and reinforces Masonic principles, ensuring their continuity and relevance.

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The Child ID program, for example, offers an excellent opportunity to engage with the community while promoting a critical service. By participating in events like fingerprinting sessions at schools or local festivals, lodges not only enhance child safety awareness, but also showcase Freemasonry's commitment to safeguarding families.

Engaging our lodges with the community is not just beneficial; it is essential for the growth, vitality, and impact of Freemasonry. By leveraging program resources and embracing initiatives that resonate with both members and the broader community, we ensure that Freemasonry remains relevant and continues to make a positive difference in the lives of all involved.

HISTORY NIGHTS: Host events where lodge members share insights into Masonic history, symbolism, and traditions. Invite non-Masonic guests to learn about Freemasonry and your lodge's unique contributions.

Leverage resources such as those offered by the Michigan Masonic Museum and Library to enrich these educational opportunities.

EDUCATION PROGRAMS: Offer scholarships, mentorship programs, or workshops that benefit both members and the

community. Utilize funds from your Lodge Charity Account to support these initiatives, fostering personal and professional development among members and encouraging community involvement.

COMMUNITY SERVICE: Organize volunteer activities, blood drives, or fundraisers that address local needs. These initiatives not only benefit the community, but also strengthen bonds within the lodge, reinforcing the spirit of Brotherhood and mutual support.

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Summer 2024

STRENGTHENING BONDS

Across Generations A

re you seeking to elevate lodge engagement, reconnect with former members, or create a welcoming environment for potential candidates? Perhaps it's time to consider adopting a family-oriented approach within your Masonic lodge.

At the heart of family-oriented lodges lies a fundamental belief: Freemasonry is not just an individual journey, but a collective experience that spans generations. By embracing spouses, children, and extended family members in your activities and rituals, your lodges forge stronger bonds between Masons and your families.

When families actively participate in lodge activities, it ensures continuity and sustainability across generations. Engaging children in ageappropriate activities and teachings early on ensures that Masonic principles of integrity, charity, and personal growth are instilled from a young age. This continuity not only fortifies the Masonic community, but also ensures its relevance and vitality in today's ever-changing world.

4. ICE CREAM SOCIAL SUNDAY: Create a delicious spread of ice cream and toppings, perfect for building connections over sweet treats.

5. LODGE FAMILY FIELD TRIP: Plan outings such as swimming, sledding, or visits to local museums, fostering shared experiences beyond the lodge walls.

Adopting a family-oriented approach within your lodge not only enriches your Masonic journey, but also reinforces the enduring legacy of Freemasonry.

By embracing inclusivity and fostering meaningful connections across generations, family-oriented lodges uphold the core principles of Freemasonry while navigating the complexities of modern life.

As the saying goes, "Family is not an important thing. It's everything." This sentiment resonates deeply within family-oriented Masonic lodges, where every effort is made to create meaningful experiences for members and their loved ones alike. Here are some engaging ideas to consider:

1. LODGE PICNIC: Host a fun-filled day with games, activities, and entertainment for all ages.

2. TRUNK OR TREAT: Decorate vehicles,

gather treats, and invite families to enjoy a safe and festive Halloween event.

3. GAME NIGHT: Bring together families

for an evening of friendly competition and camaraderie.

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Summer 2024

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T

he Michigan Masonic Child ID Program stands as a beacon of community service and safety, championed by Masons across the state for over a decade. This initiative focuses on equipping parents with tools to protect their children through the distribution of thousands of identification kits annually at community and school events.

In collaboration with experts, Michigan Masons provide resources on abduction prevention, recovery identification, and safety, ensuring families have access to credible information. This proactive approach reflects their commitment to child safety amid the unfortunate risks children face each year.

PROTECTING Beyond safety, the program fosters engagement among lodge Brothers statewide. Volunteers dedicate their time to distributing Child ID kits, not just as a duty, but as a means to strengthen bonds and camaraderie. This shared mission reinforces the values of Brotherhood and service within the Masonic community.

Community involvement is integral to the program's success. Lodges actively participate in local events such as kindergarten round-ups, festivals, and law enforcementsupported activities. These partnerships underscore the program's legitimacy and build trust with community members, enhancing the visibility and impact of the lodge.

The Child ID kits, developed in partnership with the National Child Identification Program, are comprehensive and user-friendly. They include fingerprinting instructions, spaces for physical descriptions, and areas for current photographs. This process is designed for convenience, allowing families to complete it at home.

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TOP: HESPERIA-ARCANA #346, BROTHER HOWARD VISSER (LEFT) AND BROTHER CHUCK WHITMAN (RIGHT).

MIDDLE: WAYNE LODGE #112, BROTHER TIM BAILEY (LEFT), DENNIS BRAMIGK PM (MIDDLE), AND ROGER MOORE PM (RIGHT).

BOTTOM: PERE MARQUETTE LODGE #299, BROTHER MARK ROGERS (LEFT) AND BROTHER DR. GARY BERGESON (RIGHT).

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Summer 2024

In addition to physical kits, Michigan Masons promote a free Child ID smartphone app provided by the FBI. This app enables parents to store critical information electronically, facilitating immediate access for authorities if needed. It also offers safety tips and guidance on what to do if a child goes missing.

Recognizing the importance of education, Masons introduce internet safety coloring books and crayons at events. These tools engage children while educating them and their parents about online safety measures.

The program's impact extends beyond safety initiatives. By engaging families in activities like crafts at art fairs or informative discussions at community events, Masons create relaxed environments for meaningful conversations about child safety and the role of the lodge.

OUR FUTURE: THE MICHIGAN MASONIC CHILD ID PROGRAM'S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY SAFETY

Overall, the Michigan Masonic Child ID Program exemplifies the power of volunteerism and community engagement. By uniting lodge Brothers in safeguarding children and supporting families, the program not only enhances safety measures, but also strengthens the bonds of fellowship within the Masonic community. Through ongoing participation in local events and innovative educational initiatives, the Michigan Masons continue to play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of children across the state. For more information on upcoming Child ID events in Michigan, visit the Events Calendar on michiganmasons.org or contact Patti Nowak directly at (800) 321-9357.

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Summer 2024

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GUIDING LIGHTS: SHAPING LEADERS AND SERVANTS E

TAWAS POINT LIGHTHOUSE

xperienced Masons mentoring new members not only strengthens the fraternity, but also enriches the communities we serve.

This tradition of mentorship is fundamental to Freemasonry, embodying principles of personal growth, moral integrity, and service to others.

Through guidance and support, seasoned Masons pass down these values to newer members, ensuring the continuity of Masonic ideals across generations.

Chris Walter of Tawas Lodge #274 exemplifies the transformative power of Masonic mentorship.

Having moved from Atlanta, Georgia, Chris sought connection in his new community and found it unexpectedly through Freemasonry. "I had given up on ever finding peers," Chris admits, but the warm reception and genuine camaraderie he experienced at the lodge "helped restore my faith in humanity at a time I really needed it."

Chris's journey into Freemasonry began with curiosity and a desire to engage with like-minded individuals. Initially unfamiliar with Masonic rituals and teachings, he embraced the opportunity to

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participate in lodge activities and contribute to community initiatives.

"Once a month on many Saturdays I would show up and make gravy, roll dough balls and enjoy the joking and fellowship," Chris recalls fondly, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that quickly made him feel at home.

His initiation into Freemasonry was marked by the support of a mentor who guided him through the degrees, including an intensive All Degree Day where he underwent all three degrees in one session.

Despite the whirlwind nature of the experience, Chris acknowledges the ongoing support from his mentor in navigating the complexities of Masonic teachings. "I get the impression I have MUCH to learn from my mentor and fellow Brothers," he reflects, emphasizing his commitment to continuous learning and growth within the fraternity.

Looking ahead, Chris sees himself playing an active role in his lodge, particularly in supporting community initiatives that align with his values of service and the "greater good." His enthusiasm for mentoring future candidates underscores his belief

Michigan Masons - Cornerstone Magazine - Summer 2024

Mike Friedgen, Chris' mentor, praises his enthusiasm and contributions to the lodge. "When I first met him, I liked his enthusiasm toward the Craft," Mike reflects, noting Chris's fresh ideas for community outreach and lodge improvement initiatives.

Chris Walter's story is emblematic of how Masonic mentorship not only integrates newcomers into the fraternity, but also inspires them to contribute positively to society. This commitment to personal and communal betterment reflects Freemasonry's enduring relevance and positive influence, fostering a network of individuals dedicated to upholding integrity, compassion, and service.

T

CHRIS WALTER

in the life-changing impact of Masonic mentorship. "I wouldn't mind being a mentor as best as I can," Chris remarks, acknowledging his evolving understanding of Masonry and eagerness to share his experiences with others.

Summer Care

FOR MASONIC WIDOWS

he summer months can present unique challenges for elderly individuals, particularly widows living alone. High temperatures and humidity can exacerbate health issues, making it difficult for some to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment. Additionally, the summer season can bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation, as regular routines are disrupted, and family members may be away on vacation.

Ensuring the well-being of Masonic widows during the summer is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical health and safety issue. Older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration. Regular check-ins by Masons can help monitor these risks, ensuring that widows have access to air conditioning, adequate hydration, and necessary medical care.

Beyond physical health, the presence of Masons provides invaluable social and emotional support.

Loneliness can have a severe impact on mental health, leading to depression and anxiety. By visiting or calling on these widows, Masons offer

companionship and a sense of belonging, reinforcing that they are cherished members of the Masonic family.

Outreach & Member Care is also here to help your lodge support its widows. If any lodge discovers a widow in need of additional assistance, they are encouraged to contact the Outreach and Member Care department. This department is available to provide further help and resources, ensuring that no widow goes without the care and support she needs. Call (800) 321-9357 to speak with a Member Care Coordinator today.

Michigan Masons - www.michiganmasons.org - Summer 2024

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1200 Wright Ave Alma, MI 48801 michiganmasons.org

Our new membership database, Grand View, is now live! ALL members can now create an account and access their member portal to view their lodge and Grand Lodge calendar, access lodge resources, update their personal information, and more!

Create an account now by visiting mi.grandview.systems/ membership_registration. Your member number is the same as it is now, minus the M in front. If you have any issues, please contact us at (800) 321-9357.