California Freemason Magazine Spring 2024 Brick by Brick

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CALIFORNIAFREEMASON.ORG

Brick Bric

by Brick INSIDE A LODGE BUILDING BOOM

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SPRING 2024 73 02 VO L

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I N E VE RY I SSU E

2 S N A P S H OT

A moment of quiet before a candidate embarks on the journey of a lifetime.

4 E X E C U T I V E M E S S AG E Grand Master Sean Metroka explains why building new

INDI A N W ELL S MAY 17–19

L A K E TA HOE APRIL 19–21

lodges is the key to the future of the fraternity.

5 THE MOSAIC

Last fall, the Vatican once again reiterated its position on Freemasonry—one that’s

ND SPOUSES ALCOME! WE PARTNERS l a nd c a s u a Organized available s gathering ic family o s a for M n nds. and frie

Why attend this year’s retreats?

“At lodge, you have people who can tell you what you should be doing, but here you can learn what you can do—and you meet people who can give you the support to do it.”

“I came back to the lodge inspired. It was a very meaningful experience. Even after all the leadership positions I’ve been in, I still find it valuable.”

—MARTY CUSING, PAST MASTER

—GEORGE WHITMORE, PAST MASTER, INSPECTOR, AND AGL

NEW! Choose your learning track: WARDENS TRACK Focus on planning

MASTER TRACK

Finish the year strong

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Meeting and welcoming prospects • Filling the line with energized brothers • Inspiring members with Masonic education and “can’t miss” stated meetings • And plenty of time for meeting Masons from across the state!

caused confusion for 300 years [page 5]; the archived papers of California’s Masonic leaders yields important historical insight [page 7]; at the Masonic Homes, an expansion in eligibility is life-changing news [page 8]; an East Bay lodge helps a local school develop a chill zone [page 9]; meet a member with some serious coffee skills [page 10]; learn the surprising roots of a curious

New lodges are popping up all across California. But

Masonic floral symbol [page 11];

more than just expanding Masonry’s footprint, they’re

and more.

33 M A S O N I C A S S I S TA N C E

helping redefine the craft for a new generation. It’s anything but child’s play.

Assisted living and specialized memory care can be complex and intimidating. Here’s what

you need to know.

36 D O N O R P R O F I L E

How a familial love of Masonry has inspired one member to give back.

Register today! at Space is going fast! Registerfreemason.org/retreats now at freemason.org/retreats

12 BrickbyBrick

O N TH E COV E R

ILLUSTRATION

BY EDDIE GUY

1 6 B O N V I VA N T S From the ashes of Los Angeles’s first Francophone lodge comes La France № 885, a new group “built on old traditions.”

2 0 C U LT U R E C L U B A new lodge pays homage to the national hero of the Philippines— and adds to a growing Pinoy influence in the fraternity.

EDDIE GUY

23 THE CRAFTSMEN At Logos № 814, they are living in a material world—and that’s just the way they like it.

28 SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW When two historic Oakland lodges joined forces, they made a decision to develop a brand-new culture.

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S N A P S H O T 01/18/2024 | 6:06 P.M.

The Journey Begins AS A CANDIDATE PREPARES to take the degrees of Masonry and absorb hundreds of years’ worth of tradition and symbology, they are first left alone for a moment of quietude. “In some ways, that was the most memorable part,” says Alexandre Verquin, who was initiated in January at La France № 885. Born in Paris and raised in Geneva, Verquin says he comes from several generations of Masons in France, Germany, and Switzerland. Upon moving to Los Angeles for school, he began researching local lodges. To his great surprise, a brand-new French-speaking group was being founded close to his new home (for more, see page 16). “I was surprised to find that there weren’t just French people there, but also members from Algeria, Morocco—all over,” he says. “I think it’s a great thing to be in contact with people from different backgrounds and different nationalities, to get together and do something that has such an impact. It’s a special feeling.” —IAN A. STEWART

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ALEXANDRE VERQUIN, 19, AWAITS HIS CUE TO BEGIN HIS FIRST-DEGREE CONFERRAL, WITH LA FRANCE № 885, AT THE SUNSET MASONIC TEMPLE IN SANTA MONICA.

PHOTO BY TOM STORY

3

Surveying California Freemasonry

IN WITH THE NEW What the latest crop of new lodges reveals about Masonry in California.

Since being elected as Grand Master of California last fall, I’ve had the privilege of participating in the openings (institutions or constitutions) of nine new lodges.

This achievement is thanks to the concerted effort of our Grand Lodge to support the development of new lodges, which we see as a

EDITORIAL STAFF Emily Limón Executive Editor Ian A. Stewart Editorial Director Pete Ivey Creative Director Isabelle Guérin Managing Editor J.R. Sheetz Multimedia Editor Justin Japitana Assistant Editor John Dale Online Editor PUBLICATION COMMITTEE G. Sean Metroka Grand Master Russell E. Hennings Editor-in-Chief and PM, Saddleback Laguna № 672 Allan L. Casalou Grand Secretary and PM, Acalanes Fellowship № 480 Ian E. Laurelin South Pasadena № 290 Dagoberto Rodriguez PM, South Pasadena № 290 Emanuel A. Rose PM, Humboldt № 79 James L. Tucker PM, Logos № 861

crucial component to expanding the fraternity’s footprint in Cali-

Deputy Grand Master: Arthur L. Salazar Jr., Irvine Valley Lodge № 671

options to our new and existing members, and ultimately fortifying our membership for the future.

Since 2017, when this effort began in earnest, we’ve launched an amazing 25 new lodges in California, including groups catering to Hispanic, French, Armenian, and Filipino traditions.

These new lodges are helping us reach into more communities than ever and strengthening the state of the craft in California. More than that, each one of them acts as a laboratory of new ideas that all of us can draw from. That’s the takeaway from this issue of California Freemason.

Whether it’s the international bonds forged by a group like La France № 885 (for more, see page 16), the balancing of history and change at Oakland № 61 (page 28), or the way that material culture and creativity have helped forge a culture at Logos № 861 (page 23), there are inspiring lessons playing out in real time all around us.

In the middle of that flurry of activity I stepped into last fall, I was also able to attend the 175th anniversary of California № 1, one of the oldest chartered lodges in our jurisdiction. It was a great reminder that what makes our fraternity so special is the mix of old and new. Tradition and evolution. Stability and change. More than anything, it crystalized for me the notion that we should always be open to new ideas and ways of doing things—and that some ideas do indeed stand the test of time.

The Long Shadow

FOR THREE CENTURIES, THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HAS TAKEN A HARD-LINE STANCE AGAINST FREEMASONRY. IN THE WAKE OF ITS LATEST STATEMENT, THE QUESTION REMAINS: WHY?

BY IAN A. STEWART

OFFICERS OF THE GRAND LODGE Grand Master: G. Sean Metroka, Nevada Lodge № 13

fornia, providing a wider range of

HISTORY

Senior Grand Warden: Garrett Chan, California № 1 Junior Grand Warden: Ara Maloyan, Santa Monica-Palisades № 307 Grand Treasurer: Charles P. Cross, Metropolitan № 352 Grand Secretary: Allan L. Casalou, Acalanes Fellowship № 480 Grand Lecturer: Ricky L. Lawler, Elk Grove № 193

CALIFORNIA FREEMASON ISSUE 02 • VOLUME 72 • SPRING 2024 USPS #083-940 is published quarterly by the Masons of California. 1111 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94108-2284. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Francisco, CA and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to California Freemason, 1111 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94108-2284.

Publication dates are the first day of March, June, September, and December.

Subscriptions: California Freemason is mailed to every member of this Masonic jurisdiction without additional charge. Others are invited to subscribe for $12 a year or $15 outside the United States.

Permission to reprint: Permission to reprint original articles in California Freemason is granted to all recognized Masonic publications with credit to the author and this publication.

Phone: (800) 831-8170 or (415) 776-7000 Fax:

(415) 776-7170

Email: editor@freemason.org

Nearly a quarter- century ag o, when David Patterson sent a letter to Archbishop Roger Mahony asking for clarity about whether Catholics could in fact be Masons, he had no idea the hornet’s nest he was kicking. Within months, the matter had reached the highest levels of the church, attracted significant international attention, and led to a popular relitigating of a point of contention that has caused nearly 300 years of confusion both within and outside the fraternity. ¶ Patterson, of Wisdom № 202 in Pasadena, is now 91 and retired from his position as president of the Masonic Service Bureau. But he was reminded of his brief brush with fraternal and canonical history last fall, when the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith issued a letter responding to a similar inquiry to Patterson’s, reiterating that “active membership in Freemasonry by a member of the faithful is prohibited … because of the irreconcilability between Catholic doctrine and Freemasonry.” The letter was subsequently covered by the Associated Press and Reuters and republished around the world.

I L L U S T R A T I O N BY EDEL RODRIGUEZ

FIND US ONLINE

Sincerely and fraternally,

» californiafreemason.org » facebook.com/MasonsofCalifornia » twitter.com/MasonsofCA » youtube.com/CaliforniaMasons » instagram.com/MasonsofCA » tiktok.com/@CaliforniaMasons

G. Sean Metroka Grand Master of Masons in California

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▼

EXECUTIVE MESSAGE

Like the emergence of cicada

Church entered a period of

problems of the modern world

in this country has never

broods, the question of Catholi-

significant reform; many bish-

are due to such failures,” he said,

sought to be the means for sal-

cism’s relationship to Freema-

ops anticipated a relaxing of

according to The Pillar, a Catho-

vation. It is self-improvement

sonry has reappeared every

the ban against Freemasonry.

lic news site. “Whatever hap-

in this world for which we

decade or so reaching all the way

Indeed, in 1974, a letter from

pened in the past, it should not

strive as Masons.

the Vatican’s prefect for the

affect our future.”

back to Pope Clement XII in 1738.

His initial condemnation of Masonry has been reiterated by

Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith seemed to imply that

at least seven popes over

For all that lack of certainty, the Masonic position has remained straightforward: membership is open to candidates of all faiths.

That position did not last long.

Arthur L. Salazar Jr., the cur-

In 1981 (and again in ’83 and ’85),

rent deputy grand master of Cali-

the same Vatican office

fornia, is among those who have

he approached the deacon of his

see a contradiction with my faith,” Salazar says.

In the end, Catholic Masons are left with a deeply personal question, just as they are with countless delicate matters. Salazar says his deacon presented him with a piece of advice that he passes along to others in a

three centuries, largely

reversed course, reiter-

felt conflicted about reconciling

church. “For me, understanding

similar position: “He said if I’m

on the grounds that the

ating that the removal

their interest in the fraternity

the reasoning, and whether it

ever a member of any organiza-

fraternity adheres to an

of Masonry by name in

with Catholic dogma. As he first

has relevance in today’s society

tion and feel like it’s not aligned

idea described as “reli-

its Code of Canon Law

considered submitting his appli-

—or in my life, at least—gave me

with my moral compass, that’s

gious indifferentism,”

did not change its posi-

cation to join his lodge, he says,

comfort in knowing that I didn’t

when it’s time to walk away.”

according to at least one

tion on the fraternity.

Catholic publication.

However, in the U.S.

The most recent mis-

and elsewhere, confu-

sive, issued in Novem-

sion has lingered.

ber in a letter sent from

For all that lack of

the dicastery to Bishop

certainty, the Masonic

Julito Cortes of the Dio-

position has remained

cese of Dumaguete, in

straightforward: mem-

ARCHIVE

The Paper Trail A NEWLY ORGANIZED ARCHIVE OF GRAND LODGE RECORDS BRINGS MASONIC HISTORY TO LIFE.

the Philippines, reit-

bership is open to can-

erated that memb er-

didates of all faiths. In

ship in a Masonic lodge

the Proceedings of the

warrants an automatic

Grand Lodge in 1993,

THE MASONIC FRATERNITY of the early 20th cen-

excommunication that

Grand Master Ste-

tury was an influential institution in California. It was also

can only be lifted by the

phen M. Doan briefly

one that was influenced—deeply—by the world around

Holy See.

addressed the issue,

it. Nowhere are the dynamics of that relationship more

writing:

evident than in the thousands of letters, contracts, docu-

W h i l e t h e d i c a s tery maintained that

ments, and correspondence between the fraternity’s lead-

the church’s position

Masonry is not a reli-

ership and local governments, school boards, and other

on Masonry has not

gion. Religion deals

civic groups which have been recently organized by the

books, and so forth. These paper records, on the other

changed, you’d forgive

with salvation, the

Grand Lodge of California.

hand, “tell us a lot more about not only what the Grand

a layperson for a bit of

preparation of our

This year Joseph Evans, the Grand Lodge collections

Lodge does, but where it sits in society and how it inter-

confusion. Masons in Califor-

Catholic laymen were able to

spirit for its return to the God

manager and head of the Henry Wilson Coil Museum and

nia and around the world make

join Masonic lodges, provided

who gave it. Masonry, on the

Library of Freemasonry, has overseen a significant effort

It will be up to researchers of the future to connect

no prohibition against mem-

the lodges were not intrinsi-

other hand, is about ethics:

to collect and organize the archives of California grand

those dots. Evans points to correspondence from Earl

bers of any religion, and indeed

cally anti-Catholic. Rather than

right and wrong conduct in

masters, grand secretaries, and Grand Lodge committees

Warren of Sequoia № 349 (now Pleasanton № 321)—the

many Masons have been practic-

name Freemasonry specifically,

the here and now. How should

dating back to the early 1900s. (Most records prior to then

grand master of California in 1935–36 who went on to

ing Catholics. Further, several

the letter suggested that Catho-

we deal with our fellow crea-

were destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and

become state governor, and later a Supreme Court jus-

attempts at clarification from

lics were simply forbidden from

tures. Confusion sometimes

fire.) The vast majority of these records were entirely unac-

tice—that may help illuminate the development of his

the Vatican over the years have,

joining “associations which plot

arises because religion talks

counted for previously, hidden within unmarked file cabi-

political mind. There’s also important cultural context

in the words of Rev. Thomas

against the church.”

about ethics too but its focus

nets. For more than a year, Evans immersed himself in the

to Grand Master Charles Adams’s introduction of Public

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES FROM THE 1960s AND 1970s IN THE WAKE OF VATICAN II.

acts with everyone else.”

Anslow, the judicial vicar who

In 1976, Cardinal Terence

is different. Salvation, not eth-

documents to categorize them by date, subject, or author.

Schools Week in 1921 and Grand Master Oscar Lawler’s

responded to Patterson’s let-

Cooke addressed a dedication

ics, distinguishes religion.…

The result is that now, for the first time, researchers will

handling of the aftermath of the 1906 earthquake. Says

ter back in 2000, “muddied the

breakfast for New York Masons

Nowhere in our Masonic

have access to the thoughts and words of the fraternity’s

Evans, “I think this is really the jewel in the crown. This

waters” on the matter.

and was quoted as blaming the

ritual is there a promise to

past leaders at a time of Masonry's unprecedented growth.

is the real stuff. It’s unique material that only we have

For instance, in the wake

estrangement between the craft

our members that they will

Previously, Evans says, the Grand Lodge archive

and that tells the story of the Grand Lodge in a deep and

of the Second Vatican Coun-

and the church on a failure to

go to heaven if they are good

tended to focus on Masonic objects like aprons, jewels,

cil, in the 1960s, the Catholic

communicate. “Many of the

Masons. Recognized Masonry

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S P R I N G 2 0 24

ALAMY

meaningful way.”

—IAS

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MASONIC ASSISTANCE

A Profound Relief

THE MASONIC HOMES EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY TO THE PARENTS AND IN-LAWS OF CALIFORNIA MASONS. FOR MANY, IT’S BEEN A LIFE-CHANGER. BY IAN A. STEWART

After the meeting, another

to live at the Masonic Homes’

member pulled Alarcon aside

65-and-up senior communities

and told him that the Masonic

in Union City and Covina, as

Homes of California had recently

well as to access other forms

updated its eligibility to allow the

of assistance through Masonic

parents and in-laws of California

Outreach Services—including

Masons to access care. So Alar-

advice and referrals to in-home

con made a call, and to his aston-

care providers and services like

ishment, just two weeks later,

the Shared Housing program in Covina. Financial support

L ast fall, as Tony Alarcon

facility. The ordeal was proving

his father was moving into the

presided over the monthly meet-

stressful for Alarcon and his fam-

Masonic Homes of California’s

is also available to those affili-

ing of his local commandery of

ily, who were tasked with finding

Lorber skilled-nursing residence,

ated with a California Mason

the Knights Templar, he took a

and arranging increasingly acute

just a short drive from his Los

who’s been in good standing

moment to ask for a prayer for

care for him.

Gatos home.

his father. He’d recently had a fall, which precipitated a rapid decline in his overall health. Now 82 and suffering from dementia, his father had been in and out of the hospital and spent three stints in a local assisted living

“Before this, we didn’t know what we were going to do.

Having an aging parent can really weigh on a family.”

And just like that, Alarcon says, he felt an enormous sense

tially underwritten by Masonic

of relief. “Before this, we didn’t

charitable funds.

know what we were going to do

That news should come

with my dad,” he says. “Having

as a relief to many California

an aging parent can really weigh

Masons. The membership today

on a family.”

is, on average, younger than in

PHILANTHROPY

decades past—and less in need

For One Bay Area School, a Chamber of Quietude

As soon as his father had settled in, Alarcon began working

of care for themselves. However,

on the application for his mother

they are increasingly focused

to move in to the Masonic

on securing safe and afford-

Homes’ independent living

able care for their parents and

apartments, so his parents could

in-laws. Nationally, the num-

be together again in spite of their

ber of adults caring for a parent

differing care needs.

has grown to about 53 mil-

Outcomes like this are pre-

same time, home health aides

says Sabrina Montes, the chief

and long-term care facilities

strategic officer of the Masonic

are prohibitively expensive for

Homes. Thanks to its recently

most middle-income

completed renovations in both

families. Having a

Union City and Covina, the orga-

trusted and afford-

nization now boasts more capac-

able option in the

ity, more amenities, and more

Masonic Homes

services than ever before, partic-

of California, with

ularly in the fast-growing areas

branches in both Los

of assisted living, skilled nurs-

Angeles and the Bay

ing, and memory care. “We saw

Area, can help fill

the need among our membership,

that gap.

timing made sense,” she says of the eligibility update.

The new rules mean that the

S P R I N G 2 0 24

lion, according to AARP. At the

cisely the goal of the new policy,

and we have the ability, so the

8

for more than five years, so, if needed, their fees can be par-

At least it has for one member. “It’s

More Online

LEARN ABOUT ELIGIBILITY BY SCANNING THE QR CODE ABOVE OR CALLING (888) 466-3642

such a relief,” Alarcon says. “We never imagined

parents and parents-in-law of

this was possible. This is why, as

all California Masons (includ-

Masons, we should do all we can

ing Entered Apprentice and Fel-

to give back to and support the

low Craft Masons) are eligible

Masonic Homes.”

ISTOCK

AN EAST BAY LODGE IS SPONSORING A SENSORY ROOM FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. BEFORE A CANDIDATE receives the degrees of Masonry, he sits in a hushed and darkened space to settle his mind.

For Mark Whatley and his fellow members of Mosaic № 218 in Livermore, that’s a practice that has benefits outside the lodge as well. In fact, last fall Mosaic donated $4,000 to fund a new “sensory room” at Jackson Avenue Elementary School, designed for students who have special needs or are on the autism spectrum. The space, which opened this spring, includes several seating and play areas with textured rugs, dimmable lights, calming color schemes, and tactile elements to help kids with anxiety or other behavioral issues return to a calm state so they can rejoin their classroom. It’s expected that approximately 150 of the school’s 400 students will regularly utilize the facility, although Whatley points out that it ultimately benefits all students.

“We knew from older members that the lodge used to make small donations to the schools, but that had mostly ended,” he says. “So when I came across this need, I thought, Who better to ask? I knew the lodge has been looking to do something like this, and we have the funds allocated for things of this nature. But nobody had come forward.”

The effort was approved unanimously, and in addition to providing the school with an important new space, the donation also helped light a spark within the lodge. “It kind of recharged a lot of people’s batteries,” Whatley says. “This is what we’re all about. Now the question we’re all asking is, What —IAS else can we do?”

9

SYMBOLOGY

a visit. I’d hate to waste someone’s money on my time if the issue is as simple as cleaning something.

CFM: Do you ever meet other Masons on the job?

FC: If I’m ever near a lodge, I like to stop in and see if I can say hello. During work, I don’t wear anything Masonic like a pin or a hat. But over the years, I’ve met so many people from all walks of life, I’m sure a few were Masons and I just never knew. It helps to keep me humble.

CFM: What do you like most about your work?

FC: Commitment is always at the top of my agenda, because my clients need their machines

“Working on a machine at my shop is very meditative. My mind is clear, and there’s no pressure around me.”

for their livelihood. I’ve had people greet me and say, “My coffee savior is here!” Also, working on a machine at my shop is very meditative. My mind is clear, and there’s no pressure around me.

I can dive into the different parts of a machine like a superhero to locate the main culprit.

MEMBER PROFILE

Fortunato Chua California Freemason: You’ve been a Mason for

Coffee machine technician Member since 1992 Francis Drake № 376 Peninsula № 168 Phoenix № 144

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S P R I N G 2 0 24

CFM: I know you’re also a donor to the California Masonic Foundation. What inspires you to give back?

FC: I believe giving back doesn’t always have to be financial. I enjoy donating my time as well.

more than 30 years. What’s kept you interested all

CFM : How did you first discover Masonry?

FC: When I was 13, I joined the Philippine Kong

that time?

Han Athletic Club. It’s a Chinese Five Ancestor

to clean up. At Phoenix № 144, they do a lot of

Fortunato Chua: I was raised as a Master Mason

Fist–style martial art. Later, when I moved to

volunteering, whether it’s park cleanups or food

Francis Drake № 376 adopted Avalon Park in South San Francisco, so we visit there regularly

by the Chinese Acacia Club in 1992, but then I

the U.S., I was always in search of a place where

bank efforts, and we’ve even worked with Raising

took a long break to raise my two sons. All that

I could find that kind of brotherhood. That’s

a Reader to stuff bags of books. When my work

time, I still read my lodge’s trestleboard messages

when I learned about Masonry from a friend. He

schedule starts to free up, I’d like to connect with

and received California Freemason magazine, and

knew someone at San Carlos № 690 and we both

other lodges in the area and get more involved in

that made me want to return. Then, one day in

decided to knock.

their charity works, as well.

nect with inactive members. He was the first per-

CFM: I understand you have a pretty specialized job.

FC: I’m a coffee machine technician, so I repair

of coffee?

son to ever reach out to me like that. When I came

commercial coffee equipment. I visit cafes and res-

FC: My perfect cup of coffee will always be the

back, everyone received me as if I had never left.

taurants, tech companies, five-star hotels, pent-

first 16 ounces I drink in my office while I check

It was all new people, but what wasn’t different

houses—anywhere that has large equipment. I

my email and prepare what needs to be done for

was the brotherhood.

always offer free troubleshooting before scheduling

the day.

2016, Jay Pon, who was the master of Phoenix № 144, contacted me as part of an effort to recon-

PHOTO BY CAYCE CLIFFORD

CFM: OK, so as an expert: What’s the perfect cup

PHOTO BY PETE IVEY

Unforgettable

THE FORGET-ME-NOT IS A MASONIC SYMBOL OF BROTHERHOOD, SACRIFICE, AND REMEMBRANCE. BY NARBEH BAGDASARIAN

MASONRY IS OFTEN DESCRIBED as a system of morality taught through allegory—and certainly there is no shortage of Masonic symbols to decipher. But one that strikes a particular chord with Masons around the world is the forget-me-not.

While it isn’t, strictly speaking, a Masonic symbol like the square or plumb, the forget-me-not flower—often worn as a lapel pin—stands as a testament to Masonic ideals and fraternal solidarity. But why this little blue flower? The origins can be traced to World War II, during which the Nazi regime suppressed Freemasonry, murdering an estimated 80,000 German Masons. Against that backdrop, the forget-me-not came to embody a silent vow of defiance.

The precise reasons for the flower’s adoption are murky, but many historians point to a 1926 meeting during which German Masons received a forget-me-not flower as a reminder of their charitable obligations. (The flower itself has long been associated with remembrance.) By 1934, many German Masons began discreetly wearing the flower pin in place of the square and compass, and in 1947 it was officially adopted as a symbol to honor Masons who’d lost their life in the war.

Today, the pin serves as a tangible reminder of the unbreakable bonds that unite Freemasons across generations and borders. More than a mere accessory, the pin is a pledge to live by a shared set of principles.

This spring, in an echo of the flower’s first association with Freemasonry, the California Masonic Foundation is sending seed packets to members as a reminder of their charitable obligations and the fraternity’s profound commitment to relief. A blue forget-me-not pin is also being given by the Foundation to officers of California lodges that achieved 100 percent officer giving over the past year.

11

Brick byBrick byBrick NEW LODGES ARE GOING UP ALL OVER THE STATE, PROVIDING MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR MASONRY. BUT BUILDING A LODGE FROM SCRATCH ISN’T EXACTLY CHILD’S PLAY.

ILLUSTRATION

BY EDDIE GUY

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S P R I N G 2 0 24

13

Brick by Brick

A

The Builders

A SPATE OF NEW LODGES HAVE GONE UP ACROSS THE STATE IN RECENT YEARS. WHAT THEY ARE CREATING IS RESHAPING THE LANDSCAPE OF CALIFORNIA MASONRY. BY IAN A. STEWART

A s h e s at d ow n with the prospective charter

these new lodges are built on ideas. As a rule they’re

members of what would soon become Pilares del Rey

nimble and agile, often moving between meeting

Salomon № 886, Danny Foxx started with the hard

spaces. Many cater to a constituency not historically

stuff. He laid out his vision for a Spanish-speaking

represented within California Masonry. And they’re

lodge that wouldn’t just meet and confer the degrees

decidedly forward-looking.

of Freemasonry. It would also be a hub of Masonic

Mark McNee, who helped found Seven Hills

education and involve itself in the community. Mem-

№ 881 in San Francisco in 2021, says he’s seen

bers would be expected to attend a range of private

members reinvigorated by the challenge of forging

and public lodge events. They would hold themselves

a new culture from scratch. “We sought an environ-

to high standards of personal decorum, with gossip

ment where change and adaptation are embraced

and cliques strictly prohibited.

as the norm,” he says. “Our aim was to avoid being

Most of all, he stressed, it would require work—

constrained by the notion that we had to adhere to

lots of it. “That way each brother had the chance to

traditional practices simply because that’s how things

decide if this felt right for them,” Foxx recalls. The

have always been done.”

result was an incredibly tight-knit group—and now the 331st active Masonic lodge in the state.

Since 2015, the Grand Lodge of California has

Right: Members of Palos Verdes No 883 celebrate the lodge′s charter ceremony on February 4 in Gardena.

14

S P R I N G 2 0 24

Without their own hall or an endowment to fall back on, these lodges face significant challenges, both psychically and financially. Charlie Cailao, the cur-

made a priority of developing new lodges in order to

rent master of Palos Verdes № 883, points out that

establish a wider presence and offer a greater range

his lodge received its charter over Zoom. As a lodge

of choices to members. This followed a particularly

without a home, his group relied on an unusual com-

fallow period for the fraternity: Between 1997 and

mitment from its members to stay together.

2004, no new lodges were chartered in California.

That was certainly the case for the eclectic band

Only five lodges that launched from 1970 to 2000 are

behind Ye Olde Cup and Ball № 880. Formed as

still in existence. However, in the time since then, a

the first “affinity” lodge in the state, Cup and Ball is

whopping 36 new lodges have opened up (including

made up of Mason-magicians, who, like traveling per-

two research lodges), along with four more under dis-

formers, initially moved from lodge to lodge around

pensation. Of those, 25 were established since 2017.

Southern California as a sort of road show, finally

Rather than simply expanding the fraternity’s

setting up shop at Los Angeles’s venerable Magic

footprint, these new lodges have in many ways rede-

Castle, which secretary Rob Pepple now describes as

fined Freemasonry in California—not only in terms

“not just a background but a character in the story of

of how it works but also what it looks like.

our lodge culture.” Meeting there, he says, “gives the

Chartered just last fall, Pilares del Rey Salomon № 886 is emblematic of this new approach, one that

lodge a sort of double layer of mystery to it—one that we’re thrilled to share.”

emphasizes intimate groups guided by clearly defined

Ethnically diverse, culturally attuned, some-

goals. Whereas many lodges—particularly those

times proudly eccentric, these groups show that

established during the Gold Rush—are undergirded

while building a lodge is no easy feat, it’s also worth

by tradition (and membership rolls in the hundreds),

the reward.

P H OTO B Y M AT H E W S C OT T

15

W

When Narbeh Bagdasarian and Philippe Milgrom got together to discuss their particular patch of California Masonry, they didn’t like what they saw. Or rather, they didn’t like what they didn’t see.

That’s because in fall 2023, the historic Vallée de France Lodge № 329 in Glendale was consolidated out of existence—extinguishing the flame on what had been a 125-year run for French Masonry in Southern California. For French and Francophone members like Bagdasarian and Milgrom, the loss left a gaping hole in California Freemasonry.

Although it’s a relatively small niche in this state, French Masonry has a long and proud history in California, beginning with the formation of the venerable La Parfaite Union № 17 in San Francisco in 1852. In 1897, a charter was granted to Vallée de France № 329, establishing a foothold for French-style Masonry in the state’s northern and southern metropolises.

Beyond the linguistic and cultural connections those lodges helped preserve, they also offered a ritualistic link to the old country by performing the first degree according to the Scottish Rite ritual, as is common in France and much of Europe and Latin America. (Other California lodges use the Preston– Webb Ritual, which is based on the York Rite; one major difference is that the Scottish Rite emphasizes the first degree, whereas the California ritual emphasizes the third.)

For the pair, who had both belonged to Vallée de France № 329, that loss was too much to bear. So in 2021, as the group was facing consolidation, Bagdasarian, Milgrom, and several other members met for dinner and decided to form an unofficial French ritual club. Outside lodge meetings, they met monthly to practice both the California ritual (which has been

Bon Vivants

AT LA FRANCE N o 885, A FRENCH-AMERICAN MASONIC LEGACY IS BEING CARRIED INTO THE FUTURE.

BY BRIAN ROBIN

translated into French), as well as the Scottish Rite

ultimately became La France № 885. On November 2,

home in Glendale for Santa Monica, where member-

the nascent lodge proved popular, gaining six new

ritual used by the National Grand Lodge of France

2023, just weeks after Vallée de France № 329 was for-

ship is more densely packed. (The group is currently

Entered Apprentices in its first year. At last fall’s

(GLNF), which is the French body recognized by the

mally absorbed into Round Table № 876, La France

meeting in the hall of the Sunset Masonic Temple.)

Annual Communication in San Francisco, a group

Grand Lodge of California.

received its charter, with Bagdasarian listed as master

With wine flowing freely, conversation natu-

and Milgrom as secretary.

rally moved to how to keep a more than century-

Despite its founders’ history in Vallée de France,

old Masonic tradition in Southern California alive.

they stress that the new group isn’t simply a reboot of

Further meetings were held, and in 2022 the group

the old. For one, the lodge trimmed its membership

applied for a dispensation to form a new lodge, what

from 65 to 45, and it picked up stakes from its longtime

16

S P R I N G 2 0 24

Above: Founding members of La France No 885 inside the library of the Sunset Masonic Temple.

With Milgrom, whom Bagdasarian calls “the beat-

made up of members from La France № 885 and La

ing heart of La France № 885,” doing much of the

Parfaite Union № 17 staged an “exemplification,” or

legwork, the founders had to build the lodge from

demonstration, of the first degree of the French ritual

the ground up—and to follow the rules to a T. That

for an audience of more than 100 California Masons.

meant, at least initially, only performing the Califor-

From there, word of the new Francophone group

nia Masonic ritual. To the group’s surprise, however,

spread like gossip.

P H OTO S BY TO M S TO R Y

Brick by Brick 17

Brick by Brick

Meanwhile, La France № 885 cleared a major leg-

That cross-jurisdictional membership is emblem-

islative hurdle: At the same Annual Communication,

atic of members’ passion about the need to preserve

more than 92 percent of the Grand Lodge voted to

French-style Masonry in America, which has a more

allow the group to inherit Vallée de France’s grand-

than 300-year-old legacy. In fact, no less a figure than

fathered-in right to perform the French ritual. After

the Marquis de Lafayette, the hero of the French and

that, “the news exploded and now everyone knows

American Revolutions, is believed to have been made

about this lodge,” Bagdasarian says. “We became

a Mason at Valley Forge in 1777 by his lodge brother,

famous.”

the Continental Army general George Washington.

To him, that makes sense. Because while the

L’Union FranÇaise № 17 in New York City is the oldest

group is understandably proud of its Gallic heritage,

French-American lodge, having received its charter in

the fact that it is now one of the only outfits permit-

1798. That group was invited to be the first Masonic

ted to perform the Scottish Rite degrees in California

delegation at Washington’s funeral procession.

gives it a distinctly international flavor. Fittingly, the

Today, historic Francophone-American lodges like

new group is remarkably global, with members hail-

that are rare but not unheard of. (An important dis-

ing from 10 different nations, including Belgium,

tinction: There are several Masonic lodges through-

Germany, Switzerland, Bulgaria, several countries

out the country, including in California, that are

in the Middle East, and, of course, France.

sponsored by French Masonic bodies, including the

In fact, several members of French lodges both

Grand Orient de France, Le Droit Humain, and more.

in the United States and abroad, including Grand

These lodges are not formally recognized by most

Master Jean-Pierre Rollet of the GLNF, even signed

American grand lodges, including the Grand Lodge

up as charter members.

of California, although they often share halls and

Right: Lodge members gather for a first-degree conferral.

Below: Narbeh Bagdasarian (center) speaks with fellow members before a lodge meeting. meeting spaces with recognized California groups.)

degree ceremony performed in another tongue.

the most significant of those historic groups, actually

“French degrees are beautiful,” he says. “They are

predates the formation of the Grand Lodge of Cali-

dramatic and elegant, and we want that to survive.

fornia, having received its charter from the Grande

The French ritual has a unique flavor to it.”

Lodge Symbolique Écossaise in Paris. (It subsequently

Therein lies one of the new lodge’s main draws,

relinquished that charter and joined the California

he says: “It’s a great experience to go through [the

body in 1855.) That group counted several prominent

French degree] and become initiated—or if you’ve

figures among its members, including the famous San

already been initiated, it’s a great experience to see it

Francisco chocolatier Dominico Ghirardelli.

performed. I know people who come and don’t under-

Among more recently construed bodies, there’s La France № 93 in Washington, D.C., formed in

For Milgrom, that point is key: “It’s really an open lodge,” he says. “The link is the French language and

French-American Masonry. Its 80 members hail from

the ritual. But it’s really an international lodge. Any-

all over the world, and it works closely with five GLNF

one is welcome.”

Gabon and Benin, in Africa.

S P R I N G 2 0 24

As he describes his vision for thd group, Bagdasarian talks about not only taking the French first-degree

It’s that sort of international profile that Bagda-

ceremonies on the road, but also coordinating proj-

sarian, Milgrom, and others want to continue with

ects and events with French-speaking lodges around

La France № 885. Seeing that legacy disappear was

the country. “We’re building a new lodge on old tradi-

inconceivable to Bagdasarian, an energetic and out-

tions,” he says.

going attorney who speaks four languages (English,

As if to underline that idea, when the lodge met to

French, Armenian, and Farsi, as a native Iranian)

celebrate receiving its charter last fall, Milgrom read

and has served as master of three lodges. As a former

aloud a message sent to the group from Rollet, the

grand lecturer for the Grand Lodge of Iran in Exile, as

French grand master. “I am delighted that its role is

well as past Grand Bible Bearer for the Grand Lodge

to strengthen the links between the French National

of California, he was a natural diplomatic choice to

Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge of California,” Rol-

lead the new endeavor.

let wrote. “Belonging to this lodge is, for me, a great

Beyond the lodge’s historical significance, he says

18

stand French, but they always enjoy seeing it.”

1992, which has become something like a flagship for

lodges in France, as well as lodges from as far away as

“It's a great experience to go through [the French degree] and become initiated—or if you've already been initiated, it's a great experience to see it performed.”

there’s something moving about seeing a Masonic

San Francisco’s La Union Parfaite № 17, one of

honor and a great pleasure. Vive La France № 885!”

19

Culture Club

Brick by Brick

AT GAT JOSÉ RIZAL No 882, A NEW LODGE IS DEDICATED TO PRESERVING—AND PUSHING FORWARD—A PINOY LEGACY. BY TONY PIERUCCI

I

In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare famously

and French speakers, respectively. Of course, there’s

asked, “What’s in a name?” Back then, the suggestion

also MW Manuel Luis Quezon № 874 in San Diego,

was: not much. It’s the quality of the thing that counts.

Andres Bonifacio № 879 in Long Beach, and Gen.

(“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”)

Douglas MacArthur № 853 in Sacramento—all of

Don’t tell that to the founding members of Gat José

which have significant Filipino memberships and

Rizal № 882 in Menifee. Because for them, their lodge

take their names, like Rizal, from historical figures

moniker is a badge they’re proud to wear.

of importance to the islands.

Of course, Rizal № 882 takes its appellation from

“I think Filipinos are drawn to Freemasonry

José Rizal, the poet, writer, and national hero of the

because our culture values camaraderie and fellow-

Philippines, who was, like many of the most famous

ship,” says Cariaga, who is also past master of Hemet

figures of Filipino independence, a Freemason. As a

San Jacinto № 338, another lodge with a large Filipino

writer and journalist, Rizal became a figurehead of

American membership. It’s also true that the fraternity

resistance to the Spanish occupation of the islands

counts a sizable share of current and former military

in the late 19th century. In 1896, he was arrested and

men among its Filipino contingent. (Since the early

sentenced to death. His martyrdom became a rallying

1900s, Filipino men have been eligible to serve in the

cry for the rebellion that finally earned Filipinos their

U.S. Navy, and for many years that was the surest path

freedom. After his death, Rizal was given the title

to American citizenship. Today, there are more than

gatdula (abbreviated as “gat”), meaning “honorable.”

15,000 Filipino American servicemen in the Navy.)

To the Filipino American Masons behind the new

Cariaga notes that those members doubly cherish their

lodge, the inspiration for their name was never in

After a conversation in 2020 with district inspec-

to the world that we’re proud Filipinos,” explains J.P.

tor Mark Nielson, Cariaga began talking within his

Cariaga, the first master of the lodge.

own network of Filipino Masons to gauge interest

For the large and growing share of Fil-Am Masons

in starting a new lodge in Riverside County. The

in California, groups like Rizal № 882, which received

response was universally positive. “I definitely saw

its dispensation in 2021 and was formally constituted

the potential,” Cariaga says.

a year later, are a welcome sight. It’s estimated that as many as a third of all new members in California have

Left: Amorsolo Ledina (center), master of Gat Jose´ Rizal Nº 882, with senior warden Angelo Alano (left) and junior warden Vonn DeGuzman.

20

S P R I N G 2 0 24

membership in the fraternity.

doubt. “It’s a way of honoring our culture and saying

What he didn’t see—at least then—was how it would work.

roots in the Philippines. And while several lodges

“The first big challenge was finding a home—and

throughout the state have significant Filipino mem-

finances, of course,” Cariaga says. The group was able

bership, it’s only recently that lodges have emerged

to solve the former problem when nearby Menifee

to specifically honor that heritage.

Valley № 289 offered its space to the new lodge,

That development comes against a backdrop of increasing diversity within the fraternity, as well as

though it meant adjusting each lodge’s schedule around the other’s.

an eagerness to recognize and build lodges around

There was also the matter of building a distinct

various ethnic subcultures. In recent years, that has

lodge character—something that Cariaga and oth-

included the formation of lodges like Pilares del

ers acknowledge takes time. “I think all of us charter

Rey Salomon № 886 in Long Beach, Raven’s Rock

members saw this as a chance to develop a lodge

№ 870 in Burbank, and La France № 885 in Santa

with a unique culture that we all wanted,” says Vonn

Monica. Those lodges cater to Spanish, Armenian,

DeGuzman, who is now the lodge’s junior warden.

P H OTO S BY M AT T H E W R E A M E R

21

Brick By Brick

Right: Members of the new lodge gather at the Menifee Valley Masonic Temple in Riverside County.

Angelo Alano, another charter member, who is now

having been constituted for less than two years, it

serving as senior warden, echoes that sentiment. “We

has already achieved 100 percent officer giving to the

sometimes have trouble distinguishing ourselves

California Masonic Foundation in support of public

from Menifee Valley Lodge in terms of how the pub-

education and senior care.

lic sees us,” he says. “When we meet in a lodge with

Rizal № 882 has also made an effort to get its

a name that’s not our own, how are we supposed to

name out in the surrounding community, underwrit-

differentiate ourselves?”

ing scholarships for local students and collecting

Both say that a lodge’s culture is always changing.

donations for a nearby food pantry. Last year the

However, their group’s shared ancestry and deep com-

lodge was even able to extend its philanthropy across

mitment to being family-centered remain at the heart of

the Pacific to the Philippines. “We had an opportunity

the lodge character. “Our heritage means a lot to us and

to work with an elementary school there to donate

“It’s a way of honoring our culture and saying to the world that we’re proud Filipinos.”

closer together.

That kind of work requires dedication and planning—and sacrifice. “Since we don’t have a savings account to pull from for our efforts, every cent we spend has to be raised either through our dues or

day, we’re also Masons and that matters just as much.”

fundraisers,” Cariaga says. That means new mem-

Members are quick to point out that while the

bers come in with the expectation that charity will be

lodge is proudly Filipino, members aren’t required

a top priority; the lodge holds four annual fundrais-

to be. “We welcome all Masons,” Cariaga says. The

ers to facilitate its growing relief program.

true prerequisite is for prospects to be willing and

And although members say it’s been hard work

able to pitch in and help with the considerable effort

getting the lodge established, each of them agrees

of building a lodge from scratch. After all, there’s still

that it’s worth the effort. “At the end of the day, we’re

plenty of work to do.

building something important,” Cariaga says. Indeed,

One of the biggest ways the lodge has aimed to

22

was a galvanizing effort that he says brought the lodge

binds us together,” Cariaga says. “But at the end of the

make its name is through philanthropy. Despite

S P R I N G 2 0 24

clothes and other essential items,” Alano explains. It

it was Rizal himself who said, “It is a useless life that is not consecrated to a great ideal.”

AT LOGOS No 861, MATERIAL CULTURE IS PART OF THE FABRIC OF THE LODGE. BY JAMES TUCKER, P.M.

The

Craftsmen

M

“A free people, forgetting that it has a soul to be cared for, devotes all its energies to its material advancement.”

“We are living in a material world.”

—ALBERT PIKE

—MADONNA

Masons tend to love stuff. Our lodges are filled with it—objects of curious and sometimes unknown origin, some of which members can be very attached to, or barely notice at all. Whether

it’s the ubiquitous boat on the wall (a strange custom whose basis is widely argued over) or a simple set of working tools or a portrait of George Washington in Masonic regalia, we’ve all encountered

numerous examples of Masonic material culture. ¶ I’ve always been fascinated by this stuff—particu-

larly the sentimental and handmade. I remember in particular a silver punch bowl I once saw at the

Freemason Museum in London that had been brought back from a lodge in India in the 1800s. Even items of much more humble origin can contain an element of beauty and tell a story—like the hand-cut officers’ jewels I’ve seen at the historic Columbia Lodge room that were crafted from food tins during the Gold Rush. ¶ When I first got together with a small group of Masons in 2016 to form a new lodge

in downtown San Francisco—what would soon become Logos № 861—it soon became clear that

23

we’d need a a certain number of these objects for ourselves. Unlike most new groups, though, we faced two

Brick By Brick

particular considerations: First, we did not have a hall of our own. Initially, we met inside the University Club on Nob Hill, while today we’re one of seven lodges that call Freemasons’ Hall our home. That meant any lodge paraphernalia would need to be mobile enough to set up and break down before and after our meetings.

More importantly, many of our members came from backgrounds in art and design. So rather than inherit or purchase lodge adornments, we decided early that we would craft our own ceremonial objects—and that they would play an important role in defining our culture.

That decision was like a flood of creative energy breaking a dam. It wasn’t just our material possessions: Wherever and however we could, our members would put their artistic signature on our lodge.

Then–junior warden Benjamin Soler, a carpenter,

Items of Importance JAMES TUCKER ON THE LODGE’S PRIZED POSSESSIONS. LODGE BANNER

seven inches—much smaller than the trestleboards you see in a lodge. They’re like personal, travel-sized ones.”

ceremonies for each degree. Robert Haines, our first senior warden, created our second-degree floor cloth.

As a professional printmaker and designer, I worked on our banner, aprons, and tracing boards. Then there’s the pièce de résistance: Freemasons’ Hall was

MASTER MASON APRON

“This banner has our lodge’s newer symbol on it. We wanted to focus on what really defines Logos Lodge.

What are we striving for?

I think we’re searching for our place in the universe— the great questions. Who are we? Why are we here?”

LEFT

designed by architect Kevin

“The double-sided apron is really fun. It started out as a watercolor I did, and now they’re digitally printed onto the leather apron by Brother Patrick Craddock at the Craftsman’s Apron. The memento mori on the inner side is never really shown; you’re bringing that toward yourself as a personal reminder. The front is our call to arms: ‘Green adorns the earth and never dallies, nor does it wait to plot or conspire. Forever it’s on the move.’”

Hackett, our lodge brother.

FAR LEF T

“Each step is a lesson in the Fellow Craft degree. The candidate walks across it and is imparted the lessons of the degree. It’s all handpainted by me and Robert Haines, another charter member of the lodge.”

OFFICERS’ GAVELS ABOVE

“I designed these gavels and setting mauls to be emblemTRACING BOARDS (3) ABOVE LEFT atic of the three degrees of Masonry. The first one is the “I designed and letterpressed these tracing boards common gavel; the second has a winding design on the myself. We give them to handle; the third one is darker candidates to study the lessons. They’re five by and made of acacia wood.”

S P R I N G 2 0 24

coded our website. Valdeir Faria wrote festive board

PREVIOUS PAGE

SECOND-DEGREE FLOOR CLOTH

24

carved the setting maul we use for the third degree.

Joe Rezendes, our current master, designed and

A R T I FAC T P H OTO S BY P E T E R P R ATO

To anchor us in this culture, we made a pact that this creativity would live on in the lodge as candidates progressed

“That decision was like a flood of creative energy breaking a dam.”

through the degrees. Today, members present “workpieces” when they’re ready for their next degree. These tend to be more artwork than homework. Pat Clos, a musician, wrote and performed songs for each of his degrees. Kevin Jones, a videographer, made his presentations as—you guessed it—videos. Most recently, Adam Dexter created an immersive audio experience for his entered apprentice workpiece (see page 27).

This culture of making has defined Logos № 861, and I hope it will continue to do so for years to come.

Rather than simply adding to a growing collection of stuff, I see this as a way to impart the teachings of Masonry to future members. By creating our own Masonic objects and traditions, we not only tap into our creative potential but also contribute to the ongoing narrative of Masonry.

James Tucker is an artist, designer, and past master of Logos № 861.

25

AUDIO INSTALLATION “For Adam Dexter’s Entered Apprentice degree workpiece, he designed a sound installation. It was super cool; we all wore headphones and blindfolds and listened to this sensory piece he created that felt like he was sitting right next to us. It explored the trust element of the first degree. It was creepy—in a good way.”

THIRD-DEGREE FLOOR CLOTH FA R L E F T, T O P

“We showed this a few years ago at Annual Communication.

It’s a Master Mason floor cloth that I made for my third-degree workpiece. When we were chartered, this was the only piece we had. Everything else has been created since then.”

FESTIVE BOARD PAMPHLETS (3) FA R L E F T, B O T T O M

“These tracing boards were illustrated by Freida Harris, who designed the Thoth tarot deck.

The festive boards were written by a former member—there are toasts and opening and closing remarks in them. We have these festive boards after every degree.”

CIRCLE WITHIN A POINT TOP LEFT

“The circumpunct symbol is represented in every lodge room

26

S P R I N G 2 0 24

to remind us to circumscribe our desires toward all mankind.

This one is just a little watercolor I did, in an antique frame.”

LODGE JEWEL BELOW LEFT

“This is our charter-member lodge jewel, which I designed.

Those are Greek letters spelling LOGOS inside the star. The circle represents the universe or cosmos; the triangle is divinity, or creation; and the star represents humankind within it.

This was sort of a proto-symbol for our lodge—our new symbol, on the banner, is a lot simpler.

But it’s fun to see its evolution over time.”

VOLUME OF SACRED LAW RIGHT

“Rather than a Bible, we use a Volume of Sacred Law for our stated meetings. It contains excerpts from every major religion. It’s more inclusive, since we have members from

LO D G E P H OTO BY W I N N I W I N T E R M E Y E R

different faiths. Plus, Masonry is a universal thing, right?

I wanted for us to make this ourselves, but then I found one made by Columbia University’s Theological department in the 1940s. It was probably better than whatever we could make!”

More Online

CHECK OUT EVEN MORE ITEMS ONLINE.

Brick By Brick 27

Brick by Brick

AT OAKLAND NO 61, TWO HISTORIC EAST BAY LODGES ARE TEAMING UP TO FORM A NEW KIND OF GROUP.

BY TONY GILBERT

Members of the two consolidated lodges—Live Oak N o 61 and Oakland Durant Rockridge N o 188—go through the groups’ collection of paraphernalia.

P H OTO S BY WINNI WINTERMEYER

Something Old, Something New 28

S P R I N G 2 0 24

PHOTOS BY WINNI WINTERMEYER

29

Brick by Brick

“I wanted to convey a sense of opportunity and to inspire brothers to join in on the creation of a new culture. Since we’re new, everything is a first and we celebrate that.”

Cal Gilbert (center) is the inaugural master of Oakland No 61. Tigran Agadzhanyan (left) was past master of Oakland-Durant-Rockridge No 188; Tyrone Davis-Eugene (right), was the last master of Live Oak No 61.

is a last resort for lodges—particularly for those with as much tradition as the two Oakland groups. (The lodges trace their charters back to 1855 and 1868, respectively. In fact, Live Oak № 61 was the first

Right: The new Oakland No 61 meets at the circa1926 Rockridge Masonic Temple.

O

Masonic lodge in Alameda County and counts some of the most influential early Oaklanders, including Francis K. Shattuck, among its past members.) But more than a simple takeover, the idea in Rockridge was to form something new—a third identity, unique and apart from its two progenitors. “I’m not sure

Oakland № 61 is a lod ge that reflects the

30

S P R I N G 2 0 24

what the culture of the lodge will end up being,” says

modern-meets-traditional character of its neighbor-

Ben Newsom, the first senior warden of Oakland

hood. Nestled at the foot of the Oakland Hills, Rock-

№ 61. “But if I know these brothers like I do, it will be

ridge is a place where trendy coffee shops and hip

one of great fellowship and hard work.”

gastropubs sit among Victorian-style homes and Art

The group already had a leg up on that front.

Deco storefronts built in the 1920s. It’s a fitting locale

Many members of the nascent group were already

for the new lodge, which held its first stated meeting

dual members of the two heritage lodges, including

in December 2023. In fact, old-meets-new is some-

Gilbert and Newsom, so many of the lodge brothers

thing of a calling card for the group: Even though the

already knew one another well, dining together and

ink is still drying on its new charter, the lodge’s his-

supporting one another’s practice nights and degree

tory stretches back to Oakland’s earliest days.

conferrals.

That much is visible from the lodge’s façade on

So, following the sale of the Oakland Masonic

College Avenue, a little slice of old-town charm that

Center on Broadway in 2022, Live Oak № 61 began

recalls a time when Masonic lodges were one of the

holding its meetings in Rockridge. The conversation

most visible anchors of any community. And yet,

soon pivoted to joining forces with its sister group.

despite the lodge’s deep roots here, there’s a palpa-

They were welcomed with open arms. “There are tra-

ble sense of newness to the endeavor. “I really enjoy

ditions from each lodge that will still be there to be

the process of dreaming out loud and building teams

celebrated, but we’ve left room to create new ones,”

who independently set and achieve goals for the orga-

Newsom says. “Our mindset now is that we are Oak-

nization,” says Cal Gilbert, the lodge’s first master.

land № 61.”

Oakland № 61 started as a proposal to combine

That’s not just talk: Beginning this year with the

two existing lodges, each with its own storied identity

junior warden, the lodge has an officer line made up

and unique culture: Live Oak № 61 and Oakland-

of all first-timers—further emphasizing the sense

Durant-Rockridge № 188 (itself the result of several

of a fresh start. With new leadership, members say,

mergers in the 1980s). In most cases, consolidation

comes the hope of fresh ideas and a willingness to

31

Brick by Brick

Left: Nicholas Hayworth leads the combined membership in for its first stated meeting as Oakland No 61.

Below: A staircase at the Rockridge Masonic Temple details the lodge's long and winding history.

create a new history. “The future of this new lodge

and both of his grandfathers were members of Live

belongs to them,” Gilbert says of the current crop of

Oak № 61. Gilbert recalls that when he was raised as a

officers. “I wanted to convey a sense of opportunity

Master Mason in Oakland-Durant-Rockridge № 188,

and to inspire brothers to join in on the creation of a

his mother gave him his father’s Masonic ring.

new culture. Since we’re new, everything is a first and we celebrate that.”

Family connections like those—and the deep

MASONIC ASSISTANCE

The Ins and Outs of Assisted Living

roots running through the lodge like the symbol of

So far, members say the reformed lodge is com-

Oakland itself, the Live Oak tree—mean that Oak-

mitted to making its mark through philanthropy.

land № 61 is unlike just about any other new lodge

With a roster of more than 300 thanks to the consol-

in the state. And this one is just sprouting. Gilbert,

idation, it certainly has the manpower. Already, the

for one, says he can’t wait to see what it grows into.

group has held a pancake breakfast to benefit nearby

“In the end, I just hope to be a small part of the

Claremont Middle School, and members have coor-

formation of something extraordinary in Masonry,”

dinated clean-up days with Friends of the Rockridge-

he says.

GETTING TO KNOW THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF SENIOR CARE.

BY LAURA BENYS

Temescal Greenbelt Park. The lodge also plans to continue its predecessors’ support of Masonic youth groups, Raising a Reader, and Oakland Little

I f yo u r l ov e d o n e n e e d s help with certain

knowing someone’s there to help if needed. Here,

League.

day-to-day activities, assisted living may be right

residents receive more support than they would in a

for them. But how do you know if it’s time to switch

senior independent living community, but less than

Within Masonry, the group has also set out to make its new name known. The lodge hosts a

from in-home care to an assisted living community?

they would in a skilled-nursing facility. For exam-

monthly book club (open to all Masons), plus fre-

Here are some helpful pointers.

ple, assisted living communities usually offer:

quent lectures, dinners, and social events including

WHAT IS ASSISTED LIVING?

the annual Feast of St. John the Evangelist.

Assisted living is for older adults who need help

This may be the only new lodge with such a fabled

• Caregivers on staff to help with things like dressing, bathing, medication, and getting around • Access to 24/7 on-site nursing services

past. The connection between yesterday and today is

with certain day-to-day tasks (known as “activities

a profound one for Gilbert and Newsom; both men

of daily living”), but who can still manage some

feel that their lodge affiliation amounts to a deeper,

activities on their own. This level of care is provided

To see if this level of care could be right for

more intimate bond, connecting each to previous gen-

in a residential setting, which offers senior-friendly

your loved one, talk to their doctor or a geriatric

erations. Newsom says his father, two of his uncles,

housing and the peace of mind that comes from

specialist.

32

S P R I N G 2 0 24

ISTOCK

• Transportation to medical appointments

33

WHEN SHOULD I CONSIDER ASSISTED LIVING?

WHAT ARE THE COSTS, AND HOW DO THEY COMPARE TO IN-HOME CARE?

DO SOME FACILITIES OFFER BOTH ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE?

In general, if your loved one needs help with daily

CAN MY LOVED ONE RECEIVE ASSISTED LIVING AT HOME, OR DO THEY NEED TO BE IN A FACILITY?

The cost of assisted living facilities can vary

Yes, some assisted living communities also offer

tasks or has safety concerns like a tendency to

Typically, assisted living is provided in a residen-

greatly, depending on the exact level of services

memory care. So if you or your loved one needs sup-

wander, their doctor may recommend a full-time

tial facility, where seniors live in their own rooms or

required and the location of the facility. The

senior memory care or assisted living facility.

apartments. In addition to 24/7 security and nurs-

most recent survey from the National Council

make inquiring about memory care one of your first

ing services, these facilities usually offer a range

on Aging put the average cost in California at

objectives. The Masonic Homes of California offers

of convenient services, such as:

more than $5,000 per month, as of 2021. (In San

The Masonic Homes of California offers three level of care to best fit your loved one’s current situation.

For example, the Pavilion at the Masonic Homes in Union City provides: • Round-the-clock supervision and care • Special dementia-safe layout and design to

residents’ quality of life

[Job’s Daughters Logo] • Transportation arrangements

[Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] • Recreational and spiritual activities [DeMolay Intl Logo] • Exercise and wellness programs

For many residents, these communities also provide social connection, an important aspect of healthy aging.

[Masons of CA Logo] Logo] [Masons [Masons of CAof Logo] CA

[Job’s Daughters Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo]

Daughters [Job’s[Job’s [Job’s Daughters Daughters Logo]Logo] Logo]

[Rainbow Assembly forLogo] Girls Logo] Logo] [Rainbow [Rainbow Assembly Assembly for Girls for Girls [DeMolay Intl [DeMolay [DeMolay Intl Logo] Intl Logo] Logo]

We’re Here to Help

[Masons [Masons of of CA CA Logo] Logo]

[Masons of CA Logo] of CA Logo] [Masons[Masons of CA Logo] [Masons of CA Logo] [Job’s Daughters Daughters Logo] Logo] [Job’s Daughters Logo] [Job’s Daughters [Job’s [Job’s Daughters Logo] Logo] [Job’s Daughters Logo] CO NTAC T US TOfor DAY TO ACC ESS YOU R RE LI E[Rainbow F FO R CA LIFOR N IA MAS O N S Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [Masons of CA Logo] [Masons of CA Logo] M EM B ER B ENEF I TS A ND SERVI C ES : AND TH EI R FA MILIE S [DeMolay Intl Intl Logo] Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] [DeMolay [DeMolay Intl Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] [Job’s Daughters Daughters Logo] Logo] [Job’s

•[Rainbow Information referrals [Rainbow Assembly and for Girls Girls Logo] Assembly for Logo]

Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] •[DeMolay SeniorIntl communities in Covina and

Union City, including assisted living and[Masons memory of CA care Logo] [Masons of CA Logo]

masonichome.org

(888) 466-3642 [Masons of CA Logo] mcyaf.org

[Job’s Daughters Logo] (877) 488-6293 (San Francisco) Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] [Rainbow Assembly for Girls Logo] for [Rainbow members of all ages and their (626) 251-2300 (Covina) [DeMolay Intl Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] [DeMolay Intl Logo] families

[Job’s Daughters Logo] Outreach Services [Job’s Daughters Logo] • Statewide Masonic

• Transitions short-term care for neurological and post-surgical rehabilitation (Union City) • The Masonic Center for Youth and Families in San Francisco and Covina— with telehealth services now available everywhere • Shared housing for seniors in Covina

YOU! The Next Generation both assisted living and memory care services.

ily take into account one-time entrance fees. For

[Masons of CA and Logo]linen service • Housekeeping, maintenance,

[Masons of CA Logo]

port for Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia,

Francisco, it was $6,319.) That doesn’t necessar-

• Meals

minimize confusion and prevent wandering • Expert therapies and activities to improve

The Next Generation of Masonic Leaders Needs HOW CAN I FIND AN ASSISTED LIVING

Masonic Value Network: Care resources and prescription discounts

masonichome.org/ValueNetwork

seniors who need round-the-clock supervision

RESIDENCE NEAR ME?

and care, assisted living residences still usually

Check out online tools like caring.com. If you’re in

pencil out to being less than the cost of 24/7 in-

California, visit the Masonic Homes to learn about

The TheNext NextGeneration Generation The Next Generation ofofMasonic MasonicLeaders Leaders of Masonic Leaders Needs Needs Needs The The Next Next Generation Generation The Next Generation Generation The Next Generation The The Next Generation of Masonic of Masonic Leaders of Masonic Leaders of Masonic Leaders As part of the Masonic family, the young people of Masonic Leaders As part of the Masonic family, the young people in your life deserve benefits of being a Job’s in your life deserve the the benefits of being a Job’s of Masonic LeadersDaughter, Needs Needs Needs Daughter, Rainbow or DeMolay.

Needs Rainbow Girl,Girl, or DeMolay.

Needs Visit Masons4Youth.org today.

Learn about family support Learn about waysways you you and and youryour family can can support Needs The Next Generation The Next ourGeneration The Next Generation our Masonic Masonic youth youth orders orders today. today.

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Rainbow Girl, or DeMolay. future future for Freemasonry for Freemasonry tomorrow—and tomorrow—and provides provides As part of the Masonic family, the Rainbow young people Daughter, Rainbow Girl, or DeMolay.

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YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU! YOU!

For more about Masonic Homes of California, loved one’s needs, and whether they’re eligible Daughter, Rainbow Girl, or the DeMolay. visit masonichome.org.

for Medicaid.

As part of the Masonic family, the young people in your life deserve the benefits of being a Job’s Daughter, Rainbow Girl, or DeMolay.

Learn about ways you and your family can support our Masonic youth orders today. Opportunities are open for youth and adults. Strengthening our Masonic youth orders today ensures a vibrant future for Freemasonry tomorrow—and provides valuable life skills for the children and teens.

FOR ALL SHASTA COUNTY MASONIC FAM

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34

S P R I N G 2 0 24

WINTER 2020-21

cajdi.org FOR ALL SHASTA COUNTY FOR MASONIC ALL SHASTA FAMILY COUNTY AND FOR FRIENDS MASONIC ALL SHASTA FAMILY COUNTY AND FRIENDS MASONIC cajdi.org FOR ALL SHASTA COUNTY MASONIC FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR ALL SHASTA COUNTY MASONIC FAMILY AND FRIENDS 35 norcaldemolay.com cajdi.org

RETURN TO R RETURN TO REDDING

Freemasonry is the world’s first and largest fraternal organization. It is guided by the enduring belief that everyone has a responsibility to make the world a better place.

Freemasonry is the world’s first andand largest fraternal organization.

It isItguided by the enduring belief that everyone hashas a responsibility to make the the world a better place.

Freemasonry is the world’s first largest fraternal organization. is guided by the enduring belief that everyone a responsibility to make world a better place.

DONOR PROFILE

Reuben Zari

MEMBER SINCE 1992 ATWATER LARCHMONT TILA PASS LODGE No 614 GRAND MASTER’S CIRCLE DONOR California Freemason: You’ve been in the fraternity more than 20 years. What has kept you so engaged?

welcome to THE welcome toto THE welcome THE CORNERSTONE CORNERSTONE CORNERSTONE SOCIETY SOCIETY SOCIETY There comes a time when a Mason reflects on his life There comes a time when a Mason reflects onhad hishis life There comes a time when aand Mason reflects on and contemplates the value impact he’s on life and contemplates thethe value and impact he’s had on on contemplates value and impact he’s had hisand family and community. hishis family and community. family and community.

Masons know that a bequest through your estate plan can be Masons know that a bequest through estate plan can be be Masons know that a bequest through your estate plan can one of the most meaningful things youyour can do to cement your one of of the most meaningful things you can dodo to to cement your one most meaningful things you can cement your legacy tothe the fraternity you love.

This commitment has been legacy to thethe fraternity you love.

This commitment has been legacy to fraternity you love. commitment has been handed down through generations of This Masons. handed down through generations of of Masons. handed down through generations Masons.

Reuben Zari: I truly enjoy the company and brotherhood.

It gives me the opportunity to find true friendships with people who share the same values and interests as me. My interest in the ritual also gives me the chance to meet and guide new members.

CFM: How did you first learn about Masonry?

RZ: I joined DeMolay in 1975 and was elected as a junior counselor before my family came to the United States in 1979. My father was master of his lodge in the Philippines; my sister is a majority member of Rainbow for Girls and one of my brothers is a senior DeMolay.

CFM: How has Masonry impacted your life?

RZ: Coming from a family that’s very familiar with Freemasonry, the practice of giving was instilled in me very early.

I have learned through Masonry—as well as through my faith—about the importance of providing aid and comfort to those less fortunate. I’m proud to say my personal beliefs align with the California Masonic Foundation. During my nine years as a Foundation trustee, I met a lot of passionate members who shared their ideas about giving with me.

TO DONATE Please visit masonicfoundation.org

The process is simple. Have your estate planner add TheThe process simple.

Have your estate planner add process is simple.

Have your estate planner add language to is your existing estate plan that includes a language to to your estate plan that includes aThen language your existing estate plan that includes a simple bequest to existing the California Masonic Foundation. simple bequest towelcomed thethe California Masonic Foundation.

Then simple bequest to California Masonic Foundation.

Then notify us and be into the Cornerstone Society. notify us us and be be welcomed into thethe Cornerstone Society. notify and welcomed into Cornerstone Society.

CFM: Can you tell me about your line of work?

RZ: I retired from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power as a lead utility services specialist. Part of my responsibility was to help promote electric and water

conservation programs. I’ve actually worked with Masons as customers, and thankfully, I find them to be patient and understanding.

CFM: You’re still involved with the Masonic youth orders.

Can you tell me more about that?

RZ: I am currently the chapter dad of Atwater DeMolay and associate bethel guardian of Bethel № 43 in Los Angeles.

I remember in 1999, when I was lodge master, my four-yearold daughter wandered in right as I was about to gavel the lodge into labor. So I came down the steps, embraced her, and led her out of the lodge room with my master’s hat on.

Years later, when she was a member of Bethel № 43, I was there with her as she witnessed the cross formation for the first time. It was quite a moment.

—Justin Japitana

© 2024 Masons of California. All right reserved. © 2024 Masons of California.

All right reserved. © 2024 Masons of California.

All right reserved. © 2024 Masons of California. All right reserved © 2024 Masons of California.

All right © 2024 Masons of California.

All reserved right reserved

36

S P R I N G 2 0 24

PHOTO BY BRANDON TRODICK

The Cornerstone Society drives our fraternity’s impact on our TheThe Cornerstone Society our fraternity’s impact on on our Cornerstone Society drives our fraternity’s impact our communities.

Masons whodrives make a bequest demonstrate communities.

Masons who make a bequest communities.

Masons who make a bequest demonstrate leadership and generosity, establishing a demonstrate legacy that will be leadership and generosity, establishing a legacy that will be be leadership and generosity, establishing a legacy that will felt for generations. felt for generations. felt for generations.

“THE GREATEST OF THESE IS CHARITY”

“THE GREATEST OFOF THESE IS CHARITY” “THE GREATEST THESE IS CHARITY”

GRAND LODGE F & AM OF CALIFORNIA

PERIODICALS POSTAGE

1111 CALIFORNIA STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94108

PAID AT SAN FRANCISCO CA AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES

KEEP YOUR INFORMATION CURRENT To receive special member email and other important information, please keep your contact information current. Log in and update it today at freemason.org!

✁

KEEP YOUR INFORMATION CURRENT

To receive special member email and other important information, please keep your contact information current. Log in and update it today at freemason.org!

4

2020-2021 The Masonic Homes of California Is Here Mfor ASONS MMasons—and ITTS S EASON O PEN Grand Lodge Officers California their IS Parents and Parents-in-Law! Arthur Harold Weiss G r and Ma ster Jeffery Michael Wilkins D ep u t y G r a n d M a s t er Randall Louis Brill S en i o r G r a n d Wa r d en • Independent living in a Masonic community G. Sean Metroka J u n i o r G r a n d Wa r d en Arthur Lupe Salazar,offering Jr. G r a n d Tr e a su r er • Shared Housing program in Southern California, affordable Allan Lesley Casalou G r a n d S ec r e ta ry apartments with shared space in a gated community Ricky Lee Lawler G r a n d L ec t u r er Mark James McNee G r a n d C h a p l a i n • Assisted living and memory care Gary Richard Quintrell A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v I • Short-term rehabilitation care David Mickel Edwards A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v I I Antonio G. Cimarra, Jr. A s s t G r a nQdTY:L5 ec t u r er D i v I I I 00 JairoMasonic Jesus Gomez, Jr. A s s t G r a n dQTLY: ec • Statewide resources, support, and relief 500 t u r er D i v I V QTY : 50 0 t u r er D i v V Robert Glenn Beeson, III A s s t G r a n d QTL ec Y: 50 0 • Mental health for the whole family, as well as educational Charles P. Cross A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v V I Elvan Dale Moen A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v V I I assessments for students Victor Michael Ropac, Jr. A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v V I I I John Hays Crago, III A s s t G r a n d L ec t u r er D i v I X Michael David Thibodeaux G r a n d O r ato r Jordan Tyler Yelinek A s s i s ta n t G r a n d S ec r e ta ry With the pandemic disrupting schools and all aspects of Mark Edson Pressey G r a n d M a r s h a l students’ lives, kids need our help now more than ever before. G r a n d Sta n da r d B e a r er Paul Boghes Bazerkanian Alberto Luke Casanova, Jr. G r a n d Swo r d B e a r er That’s this year, in addition leather baseball FORwhy MASONIC HOMES ANDto our classic FOR MASONIC CENTER Frank Rickey Young G r a n d B i b l e B e a r er MASONIC OUTREACH SERVICES: FOR YOUTH AND mitts, Masons4Mitts will provide children inAlexander need with a FAMILIES: Mark Nielsen S en i o r G r a n d D e aco n David Andrew J u n i o r G r a n d D e aco n goodie bag fiForsyth lled masonichome.org Super Summer Book Bag : A one-stopmcyaf.org Michealand Anthony S en i o r G r a n d St e wa r d with(888) expertly vetted and age-appropriate reading mathPadilla(San 466-3642 (877) 488-6293 Francisco) Thomas Lester Pryor, Jr. J u n i o r G r a n d St e wa r d material, compiled by the literacy experts at(626) Raising ALeroy Reader.

251-2300 (Covina) Andrew Rieland G r a n d P u r su i va n t Stephen Richard Miller G r a n d O rg a n i s t Vinz Olivar Tolentino G r a n d Ti l er Jonathan Shane Davis A s s i s ta n t G r a n d O rg a n i s t Scotty Joe Christian A s s i s ta n t G r a n d Ti l er

Call us to learn more about expanded eligibility to Masonic parents and parents-in-law.

This summer, let’s rally together for California youth!

G IVE T ODAY AT M ASONS4M ITTS.ORG

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SMPAY R I N| GJ U2N 0E 242 0 2 0

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