A Community Impact
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
MAY
EXECUTIVE
Grand
CONTRIBUTORS
Timothy
Gregory A. Hinkelman
Johnny J. Edwards
Craig Sipp, I.P.G.M.
Dale B. Palileo
The Power of Presence
Renewing Our Masonic Commitments
Do you remember when you fi rst approached the altar of Freemasonry? For some, that moment was not long ago; for others, it was a lifetime past. What were your expectations when you joined our beloved fraternity? Were they ever met, and did we live up to them? Or, perhaps more importantly, did we even know what they were? Can you still repeat your obligations, or at least explain what they mean to you?
I know that’s a lot of questions, and you may be wondering—why is he going here?
Coming out of Covid, something good—yes, I said something good—is happening in Oregon Freemasonry: Degree Work. We are seeing a flood of men knocking on the Westgate, inquiring about joining our Fraternity. Each week, somewhere in our Lodges, the Degrees of Masonry are being conferred. But with this growth comes a responsibility for you and me: to be present, to mentor, and to guide these new Brothers as they begin their Masonic journey.
You always hear the appeal for someone to deliver the lectures, but one of the most important roles in any Degree—especially the Entered Apprentice Degree—is simply being on the sidelines, showing support. You don’t even have to memorize a single line!
As we continue this resurgence in Oregon Freemasonry, let us remember that our Fraternity’s strength lies not just in the number of new members but in the quality of our engagement with them. Whether through mentoring, coaching, or simply being present, each of us plays a role in shaping the future of our Lodges. So, I ask you—will you be there to support the next generation of Masons? Will you help ensure that their expectations are met, and their journey is meaningful? The future of our Fraternity depends on it. Every Day!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Timothy J. Best Grand Master 2024-2025
Engaging the Craft
By R.W.B. Gregory A. Hinkelman, Junior Grand Warden
This past March, the Most Worshipful Grand Master Timothy J. Best, and the Grand Lodge officers conducted two Occasional Grand Lodge sessions. The Occasional Grand Lodge (OGL) events allowed the Grand Master to hear from the Craft directly and engage in dialog with the Brothers.
The first OGL was held in the east-side Portland area on March 1 at Lents Lodge No. 156. With the organizational efforts of District Deputy R.W.B. Blake G. Presswood and W.B. James S. Akers, the gathering of Brothers from the surrounding metro area was well attended with morning pastries and coffee served up by the ladies from Lents Lodge. The ladies had their own program during the morning while the Brothers met in tiled session upstairs. An OGL is attended by Master Masons only. With his usual great musical accompaniment, R.W. Grand Treasurer Gary L. Ball provided piano selections before and during the OGL.
The Grand Lodge was opened by the Grand Master on the Master Mason Degree in ample form and the Craft proceeded to hear about a couple of topics. We all had the fortune of having our Grand Lecturer, W.B. Dale B. Palileo, give us a very informative and insightful discussion on the Ritual, focusing in on aspects of the three Degrees. The Grand Master proceeded to give his talk on his theme and opened up the floor for an interactive discussion prompting Brothers to open up about current Masonic issues such as getting and keeping Brothers to attend Lodge. As it approached noon, the Grand Lodge was called to refreshment.
Following the morning session, lunch was provided by the ladies and we enjoyed the fellowship with them. After the meal, everyone, including the ladies and any Fellowcraft and Entered Apprentice Masons who might have happened to be there, went back to the Lodge room where an open session was conducted. Our Senior Grand Warden, R.W.B. Richard D. Varner was tasked to give a talk about the several charities that the Grand Lodge supports. He walked everyone through the various charities and how they are supported.
M.W.B. Best asked the guests if they had any questions and thanked the ladies for the meal and the
support they give their husbands while doing their Masonic duties and functions. Once the open session was finished, the ladies and Entered Apprentices and Fellowcraft Masons exited and the Grand Lodge was called back to Labor.
After a few announcements and discussions, M.W.B. Best closed the OGL on the Master Mason Degree in Ample form, giving the R.W. Grand Secretary, M.W.B. James L. Morgan a needed break from jotting down notes for minutes faster than a copy machine on Redbull. All in all, a very good and well attended event.
Not to be outdone, the second OGL was held at the end of March at Bend Masonic Lodge No. 139. The superb organizational abilities of District Deputy R.W.B. Dale D. Wiley and W.B. Carl D. Thompson clearly showed with pastries available in the morning and a wonderful lunch provided by the ladies in attendance. They too had a program while the Master Masons met in a tiled meeting. This OGL followed the same format as the Portland OGL. The most interesting thing about the format followed by M.W.B. Best was the open dialogue he prompted. Both OGLs had the open dialogue but each covered different aspects of Masonry which prompted great discussions. W.B. Palileo and R.W.B. Varner gave talks and discussion on Ritual and Masonic charities respectively as they did in Portland. We again, after lunch, invited the ladies, EAs and FCs to an open session to listen and ask questions. M.W.B. Best, as in Portland, thanked the ladies for the meal and support they give their husbands. The guests exited and we closed on the Master Mason Degree in ample form.
Both of these events were a success and allowed a gathering of multiple brothers from multiple districts and Lodges to enjoy education, face-to-face fellowship and all around comradery and Brotherly love.
MasonicAid Offers Funeral Assistance
By W.B. Johnny J. Edwards, Grand Historian
On the Grand Lodge of Oregon’s MasonicAid website, you’ll fi nd a powerful statement of purpose: “Supporting quality of life for Oregon Master Masons, their wives, widows and children, and female members of the Oregon Order of the Eastern Star.”
MasonicAid was created to serve Masons and their families in times of need—offering help with everyday challenges like medical expenses, home care, rent, and resource navigation. I'd like to note a meaningful inclusion of this mission: funeral assistance with service, cremation, and burial costs is available.
Th is offers relief to families facing the loss of a loved one but lacking the resources to cover burial costs. A growing number of cemeteries have generously donated grave plots to the Grand Lodge of Oregon. In other cases, families have gifted previously purchased plots for the benefit of fellow Masonic Family members in need.
As of December 2024, there are 42 donated graves available. These are located within the 57 cemeteries across
Oregon known to be either Masonic cemeteries or to include designated Masonic sections.
The application process for funeral assistance is simple. Just call our MasonicAid team. The dedicated staff members can guide families through this process with compassion and care.
Th is service is an example of how Masons look after one another—both in life, and with dignity at the end of life.
A Front Row Seat to Community Impact
by Tiffany Bell, Creating A Partnership Program Manager
Having a front-row seat to witness Oregon Freemasons uplift communities and touch the lives of countless children and families has been one of the greatest honors. Over the past few years, Masonic Lodges across the state have significantly increased their involvement, stepping up to submit applications and engage in meaningful partnerships.
As this program continues to grow, we’ve seen communities come alive—sharing their needs and inviting Lodges to step in and help. One of the most effective tools we use is the Creating a Partnership Program form, available on the Oregon Freemasonry website. Th is allows non-profits to request support, and in turn, we match those needs with Lodges in their area that are ready and able to help. Th rough this thoughtful process, we've connected Lodges
with impactful community projects that align with their mission and capabilities. Some Lodges have even taken the initiative to add similar request forms on their own websites, giving local organizations a direct way to share their needs and opening the door for Lodges to fund projects that matter most to their neighborhoods.
Whether your community partnership involves a small act of service or a significant fi nancial contribution, every effort matters. Your Lodge’s involvement is key to keeping Oregon Freemasonry a vibrant, active force in our communities—a true beacon of light.
We encourage you to reach out to local schools, nonprofits, and community groups and invite them to submit their partnership requests today. Let’s keep building stronger communities, together.
Creating A Partnership
Boost your Lodge’s effort with matching funds to support your local community. Apply for reimbursement from the Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation and receive 50 cents for every dollar spent on community-focused projects.
Supporting initiatives such as Bikes for Books, scholarships, aiding those in need, or collaborating with public entities or non-profits are all potential avenues for making a difference. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis each fiscal year (May 1 – April 30), so apply today!
Continued Commitment to Care
An Update from the MESH Board
by M.W.B. Craig Sipp, I.P.G.M., MESH Board Chairman
The Masonic and Eastern Star Home (MESH) Board meets monthly to oversee two critical components of our Masonic Family: the operations of the Jennings-McCall Center (JMC) in Forest Grove and the MasonicAid programs across Oregon. The responsibilities and structure of the MESH Board are defi ned by the Masonic Code, ensuring strong governance and accountability.
The Board is comprised of five representatives from the Grand Lodge of Oregon—the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden, Junior Grand Warden, and Immediate Past Grand Master. The Senior Grand Deacon attends as a guest, along with the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer, who serve in a supportive capacity. Representing
the Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star of Oregon are the Immediate Past Grand Matron, Worthy Grand Matron, and Associate Grand Matron, with the Grand Conductress attending as a guest.
Jennings-McCall Center (JMC)
Jennings-McCall, affectionately known as “The Home,” is managed by Aidan Health Services under the capable supervision of Mark Remley and the guidance of the MESH Board. Our shared goal remains unchanged: to make Jennings-McCall the premier retirement community for our Masonic Family by providing exceptional care and service.
Currently, JMC is home to one Life Care member and
“I wanted to come to Jennings McCall when I started worrying about falling in my own home, where I was living by myself. I also quit cooking for myself and wanted to come to a place that I felt safe. My wife had previously lived at Jennings McCall until she passed away, and the employees remembered me when I came to tour! I knew there was no better place for me to be.”
- Paul, Jennings-McCall Center Resident
four MasonicAid Subsidy Program members, while two more are receiving support in other independent or assisted living facilities within their local communities.
MasonicAid Outreach Program
Our MasonicAid outreach efforts continue to grow in both reach and impact. Thanks to the dedication of Danielle Christopherson, Courtney Chun, and Kyli LaMonica, we are now assisting over 75 members of the Masonic and Eastern Star communities. To date this year, we’ve provided more than $325,000 in assistance—a testament to the enduring spirit of brotherly and sisterly love.
Supporting the Mission
We encourage all members to support the Home Endowment Fund, which directly sustains both the JenningsMcCall Center and MasonicAid programs. As Masons and Eastern Star members, we live our obligations by providing compassion, care, and relief to those in need within our extended Masonic Family.
Introducing the Outreach Ambassador Committee
We are excited to announce the formation of the Outreach Ambassador Committee, which will report directly to the MESH Board. Th is group is tasked with promoting JMC, enhancing awareness of MasonicAid programs, supporting fundraising for the Home Endowment Fund, and providing education and training to Lodges and Chapters across Oregon.
The committee members are:
• Alexander Ben-Israel
• Gloria Varner
• Mary Drushella
• Mark L. Posler, P.G.M.
• David H. Fryday, P.G.M.
• Henry Heimuller
• Jessi Michaelson
• Stephanie Beall and Craig A. Sipp, P.G.M. will serve as liaisons until June, after which they will transition to full committee members.
It has been my distinct honor to serve as Chairman of the MESH Board this past year. I am deeply grateful for the dedication of our Board members and the Grand Lodge staff, whose tireless efforts continue to uplift our Masonic Family. I would also like to thank the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer for their ongoing support. Together, we remain steadfast in our mission to uphold the legacy of care, compassion, and community that defi nes the Masonic tradition.
185 1 Where Generosity Meets Masonic Purpose
SOCIETY
Something meaningful is coming…
Get ready to be part of something bigger. Two new giving societies are launching soon—stay tuned to see how your impact can go even further.
JOIN US AS WE HONOR & CELEBRATE OREGON FREEMASONRY
JUNE 5 & 6, 2025
CHINOOK WINDS CASINO RESORT | LINCOLN CITY, OREGON
M.W. Grand Master, Timothy J. Best, invites all Master Masons, their spouse, and guests to attend the 175th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, 2025 THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2025 FRIDAY, JUNE 6, 2025
PGM & Ladies Lunch hosted by MasonicAid
(By invitation only, casual attire) 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Check-in
2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Grand Master’s Banquet
(By invitation only, formal attire)
6:00 p.m. – No-host Social Hour
7:00 p.m. – Dinner
VOTING DELEGATES:
Introducing Poll Everywhere , a new voting platform to streamline the legislation and resolutions process. If you are a voting delegate, please download the designated app in advance. Login credentials will be provided after completing your event registration.
6:30 a.m. – Breakfast
Check-in
7:30 a.m.
Morning Session
7:45 a.m. – Musical Prelude
8:00 a.m. – Informal Opening (All Invited)
10:00 a.m. – Formal Grand Lodge Opening
10:15 a.m. – Load bus for Ladies’ Oregon Coast Aquarium & Lunch; departure at 10:30 a.m. (dress for the weather)
11:00 a.m. – Ballot Opened 12:00 p.m. – Call to Refreshment
Fellowship Luncheon
12:00 p.m.
Afternoon Session
1:00 p.m. – Call to Order 4:00 p.m. – Call to Refreshment
Fellowship Banquet
(All Invited, casual attire) “Rockin' the Night Away”
6:00 p.m. – No-host Social Hour 7:00 p.m. – Dinner
6:30 a.m. – Breakfast
Check-in
8:00 a.m.
Morning Session
7:45 a.m. – Musical Prelude
8:00 a.m. – Call to Order
11:00 a.m. – Ballot Closed
11:30 a.m. – Ladies’ Luncheon (Casual attire)
11:45 a.m. – Election Results Announced
12:00 p.m. – Call to Refreshment
Fellowship Luncheon 12:00 p.m.
Afternoon Session
1:00 p.m. – Call to Order Time TBD – Ritual Closing
Installation of 2025-2026 Officers (All Invited)
4:00 p.m. – Reception to Follow
Banquets
PGMs, PGM’s Ladies, New Officers (Three separate banquets. By invitation only. Formal attire)
6:00 p.m. – No-host Social Hour
7:00 p.m. – Dinner
Tentative Agenda
LODGING
LADIES’ EVENTS
For room reservations, you may call Chinook Winds Casino Resort Hotel at (877) 423-2241 or visit the Grand Lodge website www.OregonFreemasonry.com/ Annual-Communication. You will fi nd information about accommodations and a link to take you directly to Chinook Winds Casino Resort Hotel’s special page to make room reservations for this event. There you can select your room type, as well as see the amenities and cost. If calling, be sure to inform them you are with the Masonic Grand Lodge group. Room availability is fi rst come, fi rst served. To receive the group rates, you must make your reservations by Sunday, May 11, 2025. Additional accomodations can be found at the Holiday Inn. Chinook Winds Casino Resort Hotel will provide shuttle services between hotels.
On Thursday, June 5, the Grand Master’s Lady has arranged a bus tour to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Boarding will begin at 10:15 a.m., depart at 10:30 a.m., and return around 3:00 p.m. Lunch at Rogue Brewery with assorted cookies. The Ladies “Treasured Time Together” themed Luncheon is Friday, June 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Casual dress attire.
For those ladies not attending either of these ladies’ events, you are welcome to join the men during the Thursday and/or Friday Fellowship Luncheons.
MEALS
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
MEAL SIGN-UP FORM
To make your meal selections online, visit www.OregonFreemasonry.com/ Annual-Communication
Meal tickets will not be sold at the door. Refunds unavailable to those unable to attend.
Oregon Grand Lodge Officers, District Deputies of the Grand Master, and visiting dignitaries will be sent a letter with instructions for signing up for meals online. Please do not use form below. If you are NOT an Oregon Grand Lodge Officer, District Deputy, or visiting Dignitary, and not ordering online, please complete and return the form below.
Ticket(s) for Sunrise Buffet Break fast at $25 each
Ticket(s) for Fellowship Luncheon at $30 each
Reserved tickets for all meals will be provided in a packet and available for pickup at the registration (open various hours, shown at left), so be sure your meal ticket order reaches the Grand Lodge office no later than Saturday, May 17!
Please return form to 2150 Masonic Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116 Please enclose a check or money order made out to e Grand Lodge of Oregon.
Ticket(s) for Ladies Luncheon & Oregon Coast Aquarium Tour at $45 each
$ Hazelnut Salad with Vinaigrette Clam Chowder with Bread
Ticket(s) for Fellowship Banquet at $45 each
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
Ticket(s) for Sunrise Buffet Breakfas t at $25 each
Ticket(s) for Fellowship Luncheon at $30 each
Ticket(s) for Ladies Luncheon at $30 each
YOUR NAME
PHONE #
YOUR LODGE NAME
YOUR OFFICER POSITION (IF APPLICABLE)
SPOUSE NAME (IF APPLICABLE)
.
Masonic Training Day
Practical Tips for Growing and Strengthening Your Lodge
By W.B. Dale B. Palileo, Grand Lecturer
On March 22, the Grand Lodge of Oregon hosted a statewide Masonic Day of Training, focused on a timely question:
“How do we revitalize a Lodge?”
Th is year’s training featured a panel discussion moderated by Junior Grand Warden R.W.B. Gregory A. Hinkelman. Panelists included R.W.B. Adam Bayer, District Deputy No. 3; W.B. Justin Fleming, Past Master of Pearl No. 66; and myself. We shared lessons from the field—real strategies for overcoming common Lodge challenges.
Here’s a recap of the key action steps discussed—designed to help your Lodge grow, engage, and thrive.
1. Define the Real Issues
“Revitalization” means different things to different Lodges. For some, it’s about gaining new members. For others, it’s about reconnecting with those who’ve drifted away. Start by asking your members directly:
• What would bring them back to Lodge?
• What do they miss?
• What do they want to see more of?
A phone call, informal poll, or one-on-one chat can go a long way in defi ning your Lodge’s identity and future direction.
2. Build a Practical Plan
Once you know what your members want, craft a realistic, long-term plan. Focus on goals that can span multiple years and be supported by your leadership team—especially the Wardens, Secretary, and Treasurer.
Start small. Try:
• Monthly breakfasts
• Family dinners or BBQs
• Informal game nights or coffee meetups
• An education committee for fresh Masonic content
You don’t need to do everything all at once. What matters is consistency and follow-through.
3. Sharpen Ritual Work
Strong ritual is at the heart of Masonry. When done well—as a team, not just as individuals—it inspires pride and confidence. A Lodge that can handle its own Degree work builds internal strength and unity. Practice regularly, and support one another in raising the bar.
4. Raise Morale
Improving morale is about more than attendance—it’s about rekindling Brotherhood.
Consider reviving traditions like:
• Widows’ nights
• Past Masters’ recognition events
• Annual celebrations unique to your Lodge
Better yet, create new traditions rooted in your current members’ interests. Make room for laughter, storytelling, and shared purpose.
Final Thoughts
The most important step is the fi rst one: just do something. Try a new idea. Watch what happens. Adjust if needed
Real progress often comes through small, steady efforts, not sweeping reforms. Stay responsive to your members. Borrow good ideas from other Lodges—and don’t be afraid to create your own. Most importantly, treat each other with kindness and respect.
After all, these are your Brothers. And that’s where revitalization truly begins.
The Widows Sons Ride in with a Surprise for the Grand Master
During a short intermission in this year’s Masonic Day of Training — hosted virtually via Zoom — the sound of motorcycle engines echoed outside the Robert M. Richmond Masonic Library. e Oregon Widows Sons had arrived, keeping with their tradition of honoring the Grand Master in a way only they can. is year, they presented M.W.B. Timothy J. Best with his own leather vest, o cially naming him an honorary member of the Widows Sons. ey also handed over a $1,000 donation to his chosen charity — delivered, as always, in $1 bills. e Widows Sons’ appearance added a lighthearted and meaningful moment to the day, a reminder of the close and strong relationship between the Grand Lodge of Oregon and the Oregon Widows Sons.
86TH ANNUAL MALHEUR CAVE EVENT presented by Robert Burns Masonic Lodge No. 97 A.F. & A.M.
Friday, August 22 - Sunday, August 24 Burns, Oregon
All Master Masons welcome. Current dues card is required. Register today www.salemlodge4.org/burns/rsvp.html
M.W.B. Velvin Recognized for Service on the National Masonic Foundation for Children Board
Serving the Fraternity is demonstrated in many ways. M.W.B. Thomas M. Velvin, P.G.M. of Maryland, has served on the board of directors for the National Masonic Foundation for Children for 15 years, seven of them as Executive Director. M.W.B. Michael J. McGuyer, as a director on the board presented M.W.B. Velvin a plaque recognizing his retirement from the board after his many years of service and dedication.
ALL MASONIC PICNIC
Sunday, July 13
Lunch at noon
$10 - Hamburgers & hot dogs provided A-M: Please bring sides N-Z: Please bring desserts
For additional information, visit Burnslodge97.com email RobertBurnsLodge97@gmail.com or contact W.B. Greg O'Neal at commishglo@gmail.com
50-50 Raffles
Masonic Lodge and RV Park 33322 Row River Road Cottage Grove, Oregon
50-Year Service Award
On March 4, at the Grand Master's official visit of Holbrook Lodge No. 30, M.W.B. Timothy J. Best presented M.W.B. Hunt M. Compton, P.G.M., with a 50-year jewel and certificate.
50-Year Service Award
On January 8, during the Grand Master's official visit of Hiram Lodge No. 67, M.W.B. Timothy J. Best presented W.B. John H. Hatton with his 50-year jewel and certificate.
Pictured: W.M. Jim D. Cant, M.W.B. Joseph W. Jarvis, P.G.M., W.B. John H. Hatton, and M.W.B. Timothy J. Best.
Two Brothers Raised
On March 18, Tillamook Lodge No. 57, with help from Lyon Lodge No. 29, St. Helens Lodge No. 32, Clatskanie Lodge No. 133, and Milwaukie Waluga Lodge No. 109, put on a double Master Mason Degree.
Brother Clinton D. Anderson of Tillamook Lodge No. 57 and Brother Emery E. Owen of Blue Mountain Lodge No. 34 of Baker City were raised as Master Masons.
Brother Owen received his Degree by courtesy and drove over 375 miles to be here.
With the help of W.B. Ralph G. Winters, W.B. Michael A. Kreger, W.B. Forrest L. Hatch, and W.B. Rodney C. Lippert to fill in the vacancies, the Degrees went off without a hitch.
Pictured: W.M. Kristopher A. Torrey, Tillamook Lodge No. 57; Bro. Emery E. Owen, Blue Mountain Lodge No. 34; W.B. Forrest Hatch of Lyon Lodge No. 29 and Illustrious Potentate of Al Kader Shrine.
Oregon State Capitol
While visiting the Oregon State Capitol on March 13, W.B. Patrick Sheehan (left) of Milwaukie Waluga Lodge No. 109, himself a former State Representative, presented current State Senator and Brother David Brock Smith of Laurel Lodge Lodge No. 13 in Roseburg, with the official Milwaukie Waluga challenge coin and conveyed warm greetings from Worshipful Master Paul Steigletter of Milwaukie Waluga Lodge. W.B. Sheehan was serving as the volunteer lead for the Salvation Army Cascades Division Capitol Day, talking with Oregon legislators about the Salvation Army’s mission to fight hunger, homelessness, violence, and addiction, and offer those services to constituents in need. Brother David Brock Smith reciprocated handsomely with generous words of gratitude and placed the coin alongside others in his enviable collection. Brothers can see the rectangular coin pictured above for themselves at the Oregon State Capitol in Brother Smith’s office in the Senate wing, office No. 316.
e Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon
2150 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116
Change service requested
