Honoring Masonic Longevity

Recently I observed a conversation between two Brothers. One was a newer Mason. He asked, “What is that Jewel for?” The other Brother smiled with pride and replied, “That is my 50-year Jewel.” The conversation from that point was educational to the younger man as he explained the honor of receiving it, to oneself and to the Fraternity.

The 50-year Jewel is a visible token of Fraternal love emblematic of purity of life and conduct, and a badge of merit and distinction that a Brother has long been devoted to the ideals of this institution. The Grand Master, District Deputy, or Grand Lodge officer presenting the Jewel have the pleasure and privilege of bestowing upon him this token of Fraternal love and appreciation. The ceremony is a crowning feature of any meeting.

Since 1931, the Grand Lodge of Oregon has been presenting golden Jewels to 50-year members. The 50-year Jewel is a relief map of the State of Oregon, with the Square and Compasses, inscribed with “50 years” at the top and “Oregon” at the bottom, signifying that a Brother has attained the milestone of a 50-year Mason. Milestones for longer-tenured Masons have an attached bar signifying the next milestone: 60-year, 65-year, etc.

As we bring in new Masons, let us also take time to thank, honor, and acknowledge our “seasoned” Brothers. Nearly one-quarter of Oregon Masons have 50 years or more of Masonic service and approximately 200 more will join this elite group within the next couple of years. These Brothers have a wealth of knowledge and are willing to pass on their experience and wisdom. If you get a chance to talk to these Brothers, take the time to sit down and listen to them, you might be surprised what you can learn. Ask about their Masonic journey. Chances are, you will find that they can recall the day they were initiated, passed, and raised a Master Mason, and many other important days and events in their Masonic life. They may have a certain event that stands out to them as their favorite. If they are a Past Master, have them recall their first time being a Worshipful Master – how nervous they were, who the other principal officers were. It is possible that these Brothers are members of one of our appendant and concordant bodies and have served these bodies with honor and pride and have a few good stories.

One of the biggest honors I have is to present these major milestones to our Brothers. It is an outstanding highlight of my year as Grand Master.

- M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp

I recently had the honor of traveling to Kennewick, Wash. to watch M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp present Brother Wayne J. Hein his 50-year Jewel. The joy on his face and the gratitude in his speech was overwhelming. M.W.B. Sipp was assisted by Brother Hein’s son-in-law, W.B. Carl D. Thompson and his grandson, Brother Hunter R. Thompson who drove up from Central Oregon to participate in this momentous ceremony.

So, reach out and thank these seasoned Masons, in a way that only Masons can do. Without them serving the Craft the way they have, we would find a much harder path to pursue our own Masonic journey.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
W.B. Richard “Dick” C. Southard
Junior Grand Deacon

CONGRATULATIONS ON THIS MILESTONE

M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp presented Brother Ronald D. Graves 70-year Jewel at the Jennings McCall Home in Forest Grove.

Brother James Caylor of Mountain View De Anza Lodge No. 194, Calif. received his 50-year longevity award courtesy of Tuality Lodge No. 6, presented by W.B. William H. Sparks III.

M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp presented Brother Wayne J. Hein with his 50-year Jewel in Kennewick, Wash.

R.W.B. Marvin “Marty” C. Hardin bestowed a 50-year Jewel and certificate on Donald Thackery, Jr. who traveled over 3,000 miles for the honor. Brother Thackery passed to the Degree of Fellowcraft in Molalla Lodge No. 178. His father was Worshipful Master of Molalla Lodge.