OMN - 2024 January

OREGON MASONIC NEWS

JANUARY 2024

W W W . O R E G O N F R E E M A S O N R Y. C O M

Exploring

the

FAMILY

OREGON MASONIC NEWS JANUARY 2024 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Grand Secretary, James L. Morgan, P.G.M. EDITOR Holly Darling CONTRIBUTORS Craig A. Sipp Richard “Dick” D. Varner Marissa Douglas Eric Headley TO CHANGE DELIVERY OPTIONS Login to or.grandview.systems to edit your communication preferences CONTACT US TO SUBSCRIBE info@oregonfreemasonry.com 503.357.3158 www.oregonfreemasonry.com

Rights are reserved to edit all submitted material, and views expressed in articles may not necessarily be the official position of the Grand Lodge nor an endorsement thereof.

Proprietary rights to all articles published in the Oregon Masonic News are the sole property of the author and cannot be reproduced without express permission of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. of Oregon.

4 A Personal Odyssey

2 Robert Burns and His Masonic Poems

10 The Disappearing Past Master

CONTENTS 1 2 4 6 10 12 13 14

Grand Master’s Message Robert Burns and His Masonic Poems A Personal Odyssey Masonic Family The Disappearing Past Master Announcements & Invitations News from Our Lodges OMCF Golf Tournament

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEW THE GRAND MASTER’S CALENDAR

GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Happy New Year A

re you one to make New Year Resolutions? If you are like me, sometimes I follow through and other times, not so much. I find that I am more effective in keeping and attaining the goals I have set out to accomplish when I have a reminder of what is important. I designed my Grand Master’s pin with the square and compass over a highway survey marker to remind me to stay focused on our goals and aligned with our Masonic beliefs.

I encourage all of us to challenge ourselves and look for ways to continue our Masonic growth. A great way to do this is to get with members of your Lodge and complete the Torchlight program. Another is to have your Lodge participate in Fellows of the Craft training. Both programs have been recently updated and provide a great resource for learning.

Even if you have already been through them, you may find it just as rewarding to go through it again with newer members, creating stronger Masonic bonds.

Another simple activity is to visit other Lodges. Support your neighboring Lodges.

I always find the time spent worthwhile, and enjoy catching up with old friends and making new ones.

The educational resources above are included in the criteria for receiving the Grand Master’s Achievement Award too. It is my hope that your Lodge has been pursuing the award. The deadline, February 1, 2024, is fast approaching. The award encourages Lodges to take pride in Ritual Work, support the community, and increase your Masonic learning. Find the full details of this award in Grand View.

Finally, I would be remiss to exclude mention of the Secretary Seminar, set for the last weekend of January. This additional educational tool specifically assists Secretaries and other leadership utilizing Grand View to support the Lodge. The Grand Lodge invites all Master Masons to attend to benefit from the shared information.

Congratulations to the newly installed Brethren!

See you down the Masonic Trail.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Craig A. Sipp Grand Master 2023-2024

Reserve your spot at the Secretary Seminar today and register online at OregonFreemasonry.com or scan this QR code.

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Robert Burns & His Masonic Poems B

rother Robert Burns is considered the national poet of Scotland. Born into a farming family and raised on a smallholding in 1759 in Alloway, he wrote lyrics and songs in Scots and in English. This upbringing earned him the name “Ploughman Poet” once he began to be recognized for his poetry.

One of Robert Burns’s best-known poems is the mock-heroic “Tam o’ Shanter,” published in 1791. He is also well known for his contribution to over three hundred songs that celebrate love, friendship, work, and drink, often with hilarious and tender sympathy, such as “Auld Lang Syne.”

Scattered among Burns’s poetry are several pieces which have a true Masonic ring and can only be properly understood and appreciated by Masons. Many references to Freemasonry occur in his other writings.

Burns’s poems can be satirical but also full of sentiment; they deal with love and lust, human foibles and hypocrisies; they show a deep knowledge of and love of the natural world (especially horses, dogs, mice and lice); they can be funny and moving by turns. What makes them special is the way he writes about all of the above: his craftsmanship and use of language, his skill at rhyming, and his use of traditional forms in a new way.

He was an artist who absorbed everything and rewrote it. Essentially you feel this is a man who knows the truth about the human condition – whatever faults he may have had (and he admitted to plenty) just add to that knowledge. He is truly a poet who speaks to all, a poet for all seasons.

There are numerous Lodges internationally that recognize this esteemed Brother, including our own Robert Burns Lodge No. 97.

BURNS WAS INITIATED IN 1781 IN ST. DAVID’S LODGE, TARBOLTON

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IN 1787, HE BECAME A ROYAL ARCH MASON AT ST. ABB’S LODGE AT EYEMOUTH

HE SERVED AS ‟DEPUTE MASTER” OF ST. JAMES - TARBOLTON LODGE

The Master’s Apron There’s many a badge that’s very grand; With ribbon, lace and tape on; Let kings and princes wear them all Give me the Master’s apron!

The honest craftsman’s apron, The jolly Freemason’s apron, Be he at hame, or roam afar, Before his touch falls bolt and bar, The gates of fortune fly ajar, But wears the apron!

For wealth and honor, pride and power Are crumbling stanes to base on; Eternity should rule the hour, And every worthy Mason!

Each Free Accepted Mason, Each Ancient Crafted Mason.

Then, Brethren, let a wholesome song Arouse your friendly ranks along!

Goodwives and bairnies blithely sing To the ancient badge with the apron string That is worn by the Master Mason!

"The Inauguration of Robert Burns as Poet Laureate of the Lodge" painted

by William Stewart Watson, 1846

Fa r e w e l l t o t h e B r e t h r e n o f S t . J a m e s L o d g e , Ta r b o l t o n Adieu! a heart-warm fond adieu; Dear brothers of the mystic tie!

Ye favoured, enlighten’d few, Companions of my social joy; Tho’ I to foreign lands must hie, Pursuing Fortune’s slidd’ry ba’; With melting heart, and brimful eye, I’ll mind you still, tho’ far awa.

Oft have I met your social band, And you, farewell! whose merits claim And spent the cheerful, festive night; Justly that highest badge to wear: Oft, honour’d with supreme command, Heav’n bless your honour’d noble name, Presided o’er the sons of light: To Masonry and Scotia dear!

And by that hieroglyphic bright, A last request permit me here, Which none but Craftsmen ever saw When yearly ye assemble a’, Strong Mem’ry on my heart shall write One round, I ask it with a tear, Those happy scenes, when far awa.

To him, the Bard that’s far awa.

“Dare to be honest and fear no labour.”

— Taken from a Robert Burns letter to R. Graham of Fintry, dated December 9, 1789.

Mason's Inn in 1906 — The building where Lodge St. James held it's meetings while Burns was Depute Master.

NOW CELEBRATED ON HIS BIRTHDAY, JANUARY 25, THE FIRST BURNS SUPPER WAS REPORTEDLY HELD IN JULY 1801

May Freedom, Harmony, and Love, Unite you in the grand Design, Beneath th’ Omniscient Eye above, The glorious Architect Divine, That you may keep th’ unerring line, Still rising by the plummet’s law, Till Order bright completely shine, Shall be my pray’r when far awa.

The Masonic apron once worn by Robert Burns

Robert Burns’ Master’s Jewel

Robert Burns Legacy Tartan

THERE ARE MORE THAN 60 KNOWN BURNS STATUES, BUSTS, FOUNTAINS & BUILDINGS WORLDWIDE

BURNS PRODUCED MORE THAN 700 POEMS BEFORE HIS DEATH AT AGE 37 JA N UA RY 2 0 24

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M A S O N I C FA M I LY

A Journey Through the Masonic Family:

A Personal Odyssey

By R.W.B. Richard “Dick” D. Varner, Junior Grand Warden

A

s we embarked on the journey was a Mason and Shriner, initiated my Worshipful Master in 1999. of conceptualizing this OMN introduction to Freemasonry.

Initially it had been a challenge to issue, shining a spotlight on After making friends at numerous participate in Eastern Star events due the Masonic Family, I felt compelled open Masonic and Eastern Star events, to my wife’s role in the organization to share a window into my personal I realized the deep connection and and our daughters needing a babysitter, experience with the various Appendant care between the members. I wanted but an opportunity arose when Job’s and Concordant Daughters was bodies that enlisted to have shaped my handle that duty My advice to any new Master Mason considering joining Masonic journey. during Chapter. another Masonic body, is to take your time with your Lodge, The genesis of We went on to get to know your Brothers, and learn the ritual. Masonry is this adventure serve as Worthy a lifelong study which improves with age. traces back to Matron and the birth of my Worthy Patron second daughter, together in 1997Robyn, when 98, and each the doctor presented us with a choice to be a part of that - and petitioned a continued to enjoy our Eastern Star between Doernbecher’s and Shrine Lodge, eventually being raised in 1991 membership in a variety of capacities.

Hospital to address her physical at McKenzie River No. 195 in Eugene.

In the early years of my Masonic challenges. My wife’s connection to My journey within the Lodge led me journey, my Lodge Brothers encouraged the Shriners, through her father, who to diverse roles, including serving as me to become a DeMolay advisor.

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Witnessing one of the boys I mentored rise to an officer in his Lodge years later was a deeply gratifying experience.

Transitioning to Job’s Daughters in the mid-1990s, I served as Associate Bethel Guardian and later, contributing as Grand Treasurer for several years. Both my daughters became Past Honored Queens, with Robyn also served as Miss Oregon Job’s Daughter. It was a joy to witness the girls grow and mature through the wonderful teachings of this Masonic youth group.

Meanwhile, our involvement in Rainbow grew when we were approached to assist the local assembly post-COVID-19 pandemic, adopting the roles of experienced advisors. All the youth groups can be a positive experience.

Eventually, the persistent encouragement from M.W.B. Ivan Rinck, P.G.M. led me to Scottish Rite and Shrine.

Joining the Eugene Valley after my term as Worshipful Master, I served as Valley Treasurer for a decade and received the Knight Commander Court of Honor and the 33rd degree honorary in 2019. I enjoy the Scottish Rite degrees and their teachings from many of the great traditions.

While my Hillah Shrine membership has been less active, the local Shrine club activities invites members to contribute in meaningful ways.

Gloria and I have been members of the Order of the Amaranth for nearly 25 years. Its primary charity, diabetes research, has drawn us to be active. Its ritual and lessons are quite beautiful. Many of the people are friends from other organizations.

My latest venture I’ve started to explore is York Rite, partly in tribute to my father-in-law who was York Rite.

The benefits of being a Freemason are countless, and belonging to multiple branches of the Masonic Family, especially alongside my family, has been enriching. The people I’ve met, and the lessons learned have profoundly impacted both my professional and personal life. I encourage everyone to explore the Masonic Family organizations, as they offer unique opportunities to expand horizons and forge lasting connections. There is a lot to explore in Freemasonry and as a Brother, you will be welcomed everywhere!

Photos from left to right: R.W.B. Richard D. Varner portrait for Worshipful Master of McKenzie River Lodge No. 195 in 1999.

Gloria and Dick Varner as Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron in 1997 Grand Chapter with Ann and Robyn in their look-a-like dresses.

Worthy Grand Patrons of BC/Yukon, Idaho, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, and Montana at General Grand Chapter 2006.

Robyn as Honored Queen of Bethel 26 in 2002.

BENEFITS OF APPENDANT & CONCORDANT B O DY M E M B E R S H I P 1. NETWORKING

Through these diverse organizations, Brothers forge lasting connections with individuals from various professions and backgrounds, creating a valuable network that extends beyond the Masonic realm.

2. LEADERSHIP

Serving in roles within the diverse Appendant and Concordant bodies hones leadership skills, providing practical experience in organizational management and administration.

3. PHILANTHROPY

Membership in the Masonic Family allows us to actively participate in charitable endeavors, contributing to the well-being of communities through initiatives like the Shriners’ Hospitals and local service projects.

4. MENTORSHIP

Advisors in any of the three youth groups and in various leadership positions, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring young Masons and Masonic youth, witnessing their growth and development within the organization.

5. LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS

The bonds formed within these organizations can extend beyond the confines of meetings and events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and resulting in enduring friendships that enrich both personal and professional aspects of life.

6. PERSONAL GROWTH

The continuous learning and exposure to different aspects of Freemasonry can contribute significantly to personal growth, fostering a broader perspective and enhancing problem-solving skills, learning about the great truths beyond the Judeo-Christian realm.

7. RECOGNITION AND HONORS

Acknowledgment through awards such as the Hiram Award, leadership positions, and honorary degrees can offer a source of pride and a testament to the commitment and contributions made within the Masonic community.

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Exploring F

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FAMILY

reemasonry is composed of several layers of membership, including organizations of men, women, and youth within a multifaceted community. This system forms a vast support network, fostering bonds that extend globally into what’s commonly termed the “Masonic Family.” While becoming a Master Mason is the highest level in Freemasonry, its richness extends through supplementary Masonic bodies, offering a trove of wisdom and opportunities.

The Appendant & Concordant bodies serve as additional avenues for collective involvement, inviting participation in social events, educational pursuits, philanthropic initiatives, and ceremonial traditions. They create spaces where members can continue their journey of growth, contributing meaningfully to the community and perpetuating the timeless values of Freemasonry. Through these varied experiences, Freemasonry instills unity, tradition, and an enduring sense of kinship.

SHRINERS I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Shriners believe fun and philanthropy are central to fellowship and are great Master Masons committed to making an even greater difference together.

Shriners enjoy a wide variety of activities and family-friendly events, and they participate in sports and recreation, motor corps patrols, and more. The iconic red fez with a black tassel stands as a distinctive symbol of the fraternity.

With a history rooted in healthcare, Shriners initiated an innovative concept: a hospital offering free care for children with orthopedic conditions.

Today, this vision has evolved into a comprehensive healthcare system across North America, encompassing hospitals, clinics, and telehealth services, providing specialized care regardless of a family’s financial means.

Shriners Children’s now covers areas like burn care, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip and palate, sports injury care, and rehabilitation.

Oregon proudly hosts two shrine temples: Al Kader & Hillah.

BeAShrinerNow.com

See the complete list of the Appendant & Concordant Bodies of Oregon Freemasonry here.

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YO R K R I T E

York Rite Masonry is comprised of three bodies: Royal Arch Masons, Council of Cryptic Masons, and Commandery of Knights Templar.

These degrees expand Masonic knowledge and foster new friendships beyond the Lodge.

Each York Rite body supports unique charities: Royal Arch aids auditory disorders and autism, Cryptic Masons fund cardiovascular disease research, and Knights Templar supports eye research and education for children, alongside funding visits to the Holy Lands.

Engaging in all three bodies is encouraged for a comprehensive experience. Participation amplifies Masonic knowledge and cultivates friendships, enriching the fraternal bond of Masonry across local, national, and international levels. All Master Masons may apply.

O r e g o nYo r k R i t e . o r g

SCOTTISH RITE

The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, offers degrees from the 4th to the 32nd, serving as a Masonic educational hub enhancing ritual work and involvement in Blue Lodge.

Engaged in various charitable endeavors, the Scottish Rite aids victims of natural disasters nationally and supports Oregon’s youth with speech and reading difficulties.

Additionally, it offers educational scholarships and financial aid for medical expenses through local foundations.

Proficient Master Masons from recognized Lodges in Oregon can apply for Scottish Rite membership.

The process involves petitioning one of the nine Valleys across the state, where initiation occurs during a celebratory reunion ceremony featuring performances of the degrees.

OregonScottishRite.org

WIDOWS SONS

The Widows Sons is one of the world’s largest motorcycle associations, exclusively comprised of Master Masons. Members embark on multiday motorcycle camping trips, poker runs, charity-driven toy runs, and more. You might even catch sight of a group of leather-clad riders arriving at a Lodge, embodying a unique blend of camaraderie and a passion for motorcycling.

Any Brother who shares a love for motorcycles is welcome. Masons living in an area with no chapter can start a chapter with as few as five Master Masons.

Discover more about joining by connecting with your local Widows Sons chapter or reaching out to Darrin Taylor, guardian of membership, at DarrinTaylor242@yahoo.com. Darrin will introduce you to members from the nearest chapter.

WidowsSonsOregon.org

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ORDER OF THE AMARANTH

ORDER OF THE E A S T E R N S TA R

DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE

The Order of the Amaranth is a fraternal, social, charitable, and philanthropic organization comprised of both men and women with Masonic affi liation.

Its focus spans social activities, nurturing growth, and diverse faiths within the membership.

Its central values are Truth, Faith, Wisdom, and Charity, guiding personal growth and a commitment to aiding others. The primary cause is the Amaranth Diabetes Foundation, channeling 100% of funds to diabetes research without any administrative costs. Amaranth also supports Masonic youth scholarships.

Join to make a difference in local communities.

The Grand Chapter of Oregon is part of an international co-ed organization, aiding communities, supporting Oregon-based charities and overseeing Masonic retirement communities and aid programs.

Annually, $80-100,000 is given to local charities, focusing on Cancer Research at Oregon Health Sciences University and Paws Assisting Veterans. It engages in service projects, fundraisers, and social gatherings.

Membership eligibility includes being a Master Mason or a woman related to one, or a member of Masonic youth organizations. If you’re passionate about community improvement, global charity impact, and caring for our Masonic family, call 503-701-7488 or email GrandSecretary@OregonOES.org.

Daughters of the Nile empowers women to champion friendship, character, intellect, and service worldwide. The core mission is championing Shriners Children’s medical services. With annual donations of $2 million and $1 million in-kind support, its contributions exceed $74 million since 1924.

Nydia Temple No. 4 in Portland thrives near the Shriners Children’s hospital, offering volunteer roles such as patient greeters, transportation aides, and creators of personalized items including quilts, pillowcases, wheelchair activity bags, and bespoke hospital projects.

OregonAmaranth.org

OregonOES.org

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Daughters of the Nile.

It’s worth your while!

DaughtersOfTheNile.org

I N T’ L O R D ER OF T H E R AI NB OW FOR G I RL S

The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls empowers young women aged 10 to 20, fostering leadership, public speaking, and character development while forming lifelong friendships.

Each year, Oregon Rainbow supports a chosen charity, this year aiming to raise $10,000 for Our Children Oregon’s internship program, addressing child advocacy and literacy issues. Volunteer efforts prioritize early literacy learning.

Emphasizing positive values, Rainbow promotes strength, kindness, respect for nature, and compassion toward humanity. Parents and young women seeking membership can access applications and local assembly details online.

Serve. Lead.

Grow. Inspire.

Have Fun! OregonRainbow.org

D E M O L AY

For one hundred years, Oregon DeMolay has helped boys become men of outstanding character, through dedicated mentorships and unique, hands-on life-skill programs.

Oregon DeMolay is dedicated to fostering leadership, team building, and networking in young men aged 12-21. The Squire program includes boys aged 9-11. There are chapters in 12 Oregon communities.

The Masonic Family can spread the word about this organization, encouraging more young men to join statewide, and participate as advisors.

Visit the website for details, events, chapter locations, and membership.

The Road Begins Here O R D e m o l a y. o rg

JOB’S DAUGHTERS I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Job’s Daughters International welcomes young women aged 10 to 21, offering opportunities to learn leadership skills, plan activities, and engage with diverse groups.

They organize dances, sleepovers, etc., aiming to foster confidence and leadership abilities, building lifelong local and international friendships.

Their charity, H.I.K.E., aids hearingimpaired children by raising funds for hearing devices. Additionally, members collaborate with Masonic groups to support causes like Shriners Hospitals.

Symbolized by white robes emphasizing inner worth over appearance, Job’s Daughters prepares young women to be confident leaders.

Membership requires a Masonic connection or sponsorship and a belief in a higher power, emphasizing personal values.

Sisters • Leaders • Friends OrioJD.org

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THE

Disappearing

By M.W.B. David P. Lynch, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Illinois

W

hen I was a District Deputy Grand Master, I noticed that in many of my Lodges after the Worshipful Master had finished his term or year serving his Lodge, he rarely came back to Lodge meetings. I would ask them before their last meeting how they were feeling about stepping down. Most did not know what to expect or how they would feel, but I knew because I had been a Past Master twice. The first time I stepped down I felt like I was not important or needed anymore. I did my time and that was that. I admit I did not show up to Lodge as much as I did before. My nephew was the Senior Warden of my Lodge and because of his work schedule he could not fulfi ll the duties of his office, so I was asked to fi ll in as Senior Warden when he was not there. He could move up to Worshipful Master and I was asked if I would take the chair again to fi ll the station. I agreed to do it. I had more fun the second time because I knew what to do and expect as the leader of the Lodge. As I was fulfi lling my term, I was appointed the DDGM of the 16th Northeast District and I really received a better look at what Lodges should do and the workings of all the members.

So, what I would say is some of the Past Masters of the Lodges that I had just talked to came back to Lodge on occasion, then dropped out feeling they were not needed as before. Have you felt that way? Even as a member, do you feel not needed because you have no job to do or any responsibility?

When I would tell them before they stepped down that their feeling might be that of not being needed and empty, but they should feel just the opposite. They were needed more in their Lodge now than before. They were now in the 10 |

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position to guide, add knowledge, and show the younger Masons coming up in the chairs what to do, (when asked), and mentoring the newer Masons. Now your new job as Past Master or position has become more important than ever. I know many Lodges recycle their officers because their membership is not coming to the meetings.

So let me share this article I found a few years ago. It applies to all Masons in every Lodge.

The Silent Summons

A member of a certain Lodge, who previously attended meetings regularly, had stopped going.

After a few months went by, the Worshipful Master decided to visit him. It was a chilly evening, and the Worshipful Master found his Brother at home alone, sitting before a blazing fire.

Guessing the reason for the Worshipful Master visit, the Brother welcomed him, led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace and waited.

The Worshipful Master made himself comfortable but said nothing.

In the grave silence, he contemplated the dance of the flames around the burning logs. After a few minutes, the Worshipful Master took the fire tongs, carefully picked up a brightly burning ember and placed it to one side of the hearth, all alone. Then he sat back in his chair, still silent.

His host watched all of this in quiet contemplation.

As the one, lone ember's flame flickered and diminished, there was a momentary glow, and its fire was no more. Soon, it was cold and dead.

5 THINGS TO DO TO REMAIN ACTIVE IN YO U R LO D G E 1. HOLD ANOTHER OFFICE

Experience Lodge from a new perspective by serving in other positions like Marshal, Chaplain, etc.

2. GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR LODGE’S PROGRAMS

Whether it’s an annual event or a scholarship program, find new ways to support and connect with your local community.

3. PARTICIPATE IN DEGREE WORK

Become proficient in your Ritual work.

Once proficient, use the new Ritual tool in Grand View to set your availability to assist in Degree work in other Lodges.

4. LEAD TORCHLIGHT SESSIONS Not a word had been spoken since the initial greeting. The Worshipful Master glanced at his watch and chose this time to leave. He slowly stood up, picked up the cold, dead ember, and placed it back in the middle of the fire. Immediately, it began to glow once more, with all the light and warmth of the burning coals around it.

As the Worshipful Master reached the door to leave, his host said, with a tear running down his cheek, “Thank you so much for the fiery summons, my Brother. I will be back in our Lodge next meeting.”

- Author Unknown Your attendance at Lodge meetings, whether you are a Past Master, an officer working your way up or just a member, is important for every aspect of what a Lodge should be and how it should function. Masonry is a Fraternity of men who meet and have fellowship with each other. Fellowship is especially important to our own existence as human beings. We were not meant to be alone. I know when you join a Lodge for a while you do not understand what is going on or what to expect, but that is when you must put forth your effort to get involved, not just sit, and wait for what you are told to do. Every one of us has a talent that a Lodge needs and it is up to you to offer your talent to your Lodge. Do not be that single ember fading away.

Encourage incoming candidates by hosting educational classes to support their journey to becoming a Master Mason. Your experience and mentorship is invaluable to new Masons.

5. PARTICIPATE IN LODGE MEETINGS

Your presence is valued in Lodge meetings and your fellowship is appreciated by your Brothers. Attending Lodge is investing in the friendships you’re building with your Brothers.

After serving in the East, I made sure to increase my knowledge of the Ritual. My mentor in the Lodge was an incredible Ritualist and he instilled a craving for perfection in this area. I started traveling to other Lodges so I could see what they did and the nuances they brought to the Ritual. I started using the best parts when I did Ritual and practicing it by doing it as much as I could for any Lodge that needed help.

- W.B. Eric Headley, Grand Marshal Past Master Cornerstone No. 157

Reprinted with permission from the September 2023 Emessay Notes.

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A N N O U N C E M E N T S & I N V I TAT I O N S

LEG IS L ATI ON DE ADLINE JAN . 8, 2024 Pro p ose d Legisl atio n is d u e to th e G r a n d S e cret a r y ’s of f ice .

Corvallis Lodge No. 14 Annual Burns Night Saturday, January 20, 2024 Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Haggis will be served with dinner and Scotch for those who imbibe. There will be toasts, speeches, and other Burns festivities.

We will have a raffle and other special items for those who RSVP in advance.

Proceeds will go to our charity fund. It will be a fun evening of fellowship!

Please RSVP to George Legorreta gl.mason.14@gmail.com

AL KADER SHRINERS MULTNOMAH LODGE N O 1 PORTLAND LODGE N O 55 FRIENDSHIP MASONIC LODGE N O 160 Invite You to Attend l The First Annua

PANCAKE BRUNCH to benefit the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp

Saturday, February 10th Al Kader Shrine Center Wilsonville, OR For tickets & more information, visit: multnomahlodge.com/freemason-flapjacks

Fidelity Lodge No. 54 Presented the November Classroom of the Month at Gervais Elementary

M.W.B. Gregory A. Jenkins, P.G.M., W.B. David D. Fuller, and W.B. Franklin "Frank" A. Cunningham were present and thoroughly enjoyed participating in giving $1,000 in school supplies to an excited classroom of first graders at Gervais Elementary in Gervais, Ore.

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NEWS FROM OUR LODGES

An Exciting Time for Union Lodge No. 3

Botttom left photo: On November 18, at Union Lodge No. 3 in McMinnville, Ore., Brother Alexander M. Victor, shown with his coach W.B. Matt Gerbrandt, was raised to the sublime Degree of Master Mason. In attendance was our Grand Marshal Eric Headley, Grand Historian Johnny J. Edwards, and District Deputies Eric M. Young and Shaun E. Weaver.

Bottom right photo: Brother Michael J. Lathrop gave his Master Mason proficiency on December 5 at Union Lodge No. 3 in McMinnville, Ore. His coach, M.W.B. Hunt M. Compton, P.G.M. stands proudly next to his student.

This rare photograph of the 41st Annual Session, Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star of Oregon, was found at Tillamook Lodge No. 57.

John and Linda Glines delivered this donation from Silver Wave Chapter No. 18 in Tillamook, Ore. Come see this one of a kind historical item in our Richard M. Richmond Memorial Library and Museum in Forest Grove, Ore.

Ly o n L o d g e N o . 2 9 Installs New Officers

Grants Pass Lodge No. 84 Raises a New Mast Mason

Thank you to those in attendance at our installation of officers. Special thanks to Bethel 81 of Job’s Daughters for serving dessert, and to the installing Past Grand Masters.

One of a Kind Discovery

Brother Daniel K. Harding was raised to the sublime Degree of Master Mason on November 28 at Grants Pass Lodge No. 84.

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OREGON MASONIC NEWS

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2024 O regon Masonic Charit able Foundation G olf Tournament

JOIN US FOR THE 2024 OMCF PRO-AM GOLF TOURNAMENT 9 A.M. ON FRIDAY, JULY 19 It is a great opportunity to join your friends and Brothers for fun and fellowship on the links while supporting one of our major charities.

Save the date and get your foursome together.

Support Oregon youth by becoming a sponsor.

NEW LOCATION

Volunteers Needed!

Join the Golf Tournament Committee and help with: • Fundraising • Promotion • Event Set Up • Day-Of Volunteers Contact Jim Munson JMunson@OregonFreemasonry.com

Glendoveer Golf Course 14015 NE Glisan Street Portland, OR 97230

R E G I S T E R O N L I N E AT O R E G O N F R E E M A S O N R Y. C O M / G O L F