The Grand Lodge of Ohio
A Message
Brethren and Friends all,
from
The Grand Secretary
Old Man Winter has moved into Ohio and set up camp. It’s a good time to check in on your friends and neighbors. The Grand Lodge of Ohio was saddened to report the Zanesville Masonic Temple, home to The Lodge of Amity No. 5, was destroyed by fire on January 6, 2022. The temple which stood for almost 120 years, also served many community businesses. Although their historical treasures were lost, The Lodge of Amity No. 5 will continue to stand strong in Zanesville, Ohio. The outpouring of support they have received has come from Masons, Lodges and Jurisdictions across North America. Another example of what Masons do to offer relief whenever and wherever needed. It’s also a good time for us all to reflect on how well our own Lodge or home is prepared for such a catastrophe. Do you have historical treasures that cannot be replaced? Possibly artwork,
literature, hand crafted items, keepsakes that are on display in your Lodge or home that are not secure and protected. It’s a good time for all of us to review how well we are prepared if our own Lodge or home faced such a tragedy. I’m proud to be an Ohio Freemason, standing alongside my Brothers from The Lodge of Amity No. 5. They are a true example that the Lodge is not the building, but the Lodge is the Brethren. Thank you Brethren for living your Masonic tenets every day. Zanesville is fortunate to have you as a part of their community. It’s an honor to serve the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The office staff is committed to serving you, so please call on us if we can be of any assistance. It’s a Great Day for Freemasonry! Keith W. Newton, PGM, Grand Secretary
Fourth Generation Miamisburg Mason Installed as Master! Minerva Lodge #98 held its annual Installation of Officers ceremony on November 20th and made history. At just twenty-three years old, Brother Nick Gore became one of the youngest elected Master since Minerva Lodge was chartered in 1843. Gore submitted his petition as soon as he turned nineteen in 2017 and has been an active Mason ever since. In his remarks, he noted that he wants to focus on the traditions of the Lodge and Masonry in his year, not surprising for a young man with his Masonic background. He is a fourth generation Master Mason, following his greatgrandfather, Charles, in February 1956; his grandfather, Rick, in March 1993; and his father, Rex, in April 2010. WM Nick is the third generation to serve as Worshipful Master in less than a decade. Rick Gore led the Lodge in 2014 and Rex Gore served in 2017. The Masonic tradition continues. WB Rick Gore has another son, David, who joined in 2013. WB Rex Gore’s second son, Jake, is eager to join once he finishes his active duty in the United States Marines in December 2022 as well. 4 WINTER 2022
