Commitment
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
DECEMBER
Timothy
Nathan
Marc
Craig
Jerald
Johnny
Jason
Eric M.
Marissa
Feast of St. John
A Season For Hope
This time of year brings a wave of emotions as we gather with family and friends. The season is fi lled with events: Christmas parties, dinners, Lodge celebrations and installations, and kids’ Christmas programs at school and church—the list goes on. For many, the arrival of snowcovered mountains and putting up Christmas lights signal cherished traditions. In my family, this means heading out to the forests of Eastern Oregon to fi nd that perfect Christmas tree, often accompanied by sledding with the grandkids and roasting hot dogs.
While we hope to experience joy and happiness during the holidays, it’s important to remember that this season can also bring sadness and depression for some. Let’s not forget our widows, orphans, and those less fortunate. As an individual or as a Lodge, you have the opportunity to participate in the Giving Tree, sponsored by MasonicAid, to support those in need. Consider inviting a Brother who may be spending Christmas alone to join your family for dinner. If there is a family in your Lodge with young children, imagine the joy on their faces when they receive gift s that show they are valued and appreciated.
Remember, we are part of a fraternity where brotherly love and caring for one another should be present Every Day!
Teresa and I trust you will experience a season fi lled with hope and happiness. From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Timothy J. Best Grand Master 2024-2025
FEAST OF ST. JOHN
TRADITION Preserving A MASONIC WORTH
Iby Nathan R. Neff, 33°, Grand Pursuivant
n Oregon Freemasonry, the deadline to install our elected officers for the Lodges is the Western Feast Day of Saint John the Apostle, or Evangelist, on December 27th.(1) This has traditionally been a day of celebration by many Lodges in the jurisdiction by holding a festival. So why Saint John the Evangelist, and why should Lodges still make a point to commemorate this during our modern event-filled holiday season?
In the Christian faith, St. John is attributed as the patron saint of love, loyalty, friendships, and authors. Obviously love, loyalty, and friendship are Masonic virtues, while authorship perhaps not as much. The English Lodges held festivals on Wednesday after St. George’s Day, being the patron saint of England; Scottish Lodges on St. Andrew’s Day, being the patron saint of Scotland; and the Irish Lodges feasted on St. Patrick’s Day, being the patron saint of Ireland. Masonic historians believe that the adoption of the festival of St. John on the 27th came about after 1717 with the formation of the Premier Grand Lodge of England.(2) In the 1730 publication “Masonry Dissected” by Samuel Prichard the catechism therein recounts the familiar phrase, “Q. From whence came you? A. From the Holy Lodge of St. John’s.”(3) We know from Albert Mackey’s “A Lexicon of Freemasonry” and “An Encyclopedia of Freemasonry” that the early English Lodges were dedicated to King Solomon, and later dedicated to “God and his service,” while the parallel lines of the symbol of the point within the circle were representative of Moses and Solomon. This tradition was formally adopted by the
Grand Lodge of England in 1813, while the American Lodges kept with the St. John’s dedication and represented the parallel lines with the two Saints.(4&5) There have been many speculations on the relationship of the date of the saints’ festival days to astrological occurrences, which, to quote the great Masonic luminary Albert Pike, “will be explained when you are properly prepared.”
Many of the traditional Feasts of St. John the Evangelist held at our Oregon Lodges have fallen off; the timing around the holidays creates many hurdles for us to spend time both away and with our families. One of the Lodges I am a member of has changed their observance to a more traditional social gathering at a local tavern, harkening back to the traditions of the founders of Masonry in the early days of English and American Freemasonry when our Brethren held their meetings at taverns and alehouses. We notify the local tavern owner of our intentions for a dozen or so members to meet, we invite the Lodges in our area to join us, then on St. John’s Day we come together to toast, share stories, and rekindle for another year the Masonic spirit of love, loyalty, and friendship. I hope your Lodge continues your traditions of this festival!
1. Constitution and By-Laws, The Code, (2023), Oregon
2. Saints John Days, (2024), Skirret.com
3. Prichard S., (1730), Masonry Dissected, London
4. Mackey A., Lexicon of Freemasonry, (1860), London & Glasgow
5. Mackey A., An Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, (1914), New York & London
Serving the Craft
Insights from the Grand Lodge Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees for the Grand Lodge of Oregon includes the Most Worshipful Grand Master (Chairman), Deputy Grand Master, Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, and Immediate Past Grand Master. Non-voting members include the Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and, as a guest, the Senior Grand Deacon. The Board meets monthly at the Grand Lodge Office in Forest Grove.
When I joined the Grand Line, I was advised by past Grand Masters to expect at least 72 trips to Forest Grove, though it’s often more. Traveling to the Portland Metro area has become a routine, and I especially enjoy the scenic drives during daylight hours—less so in winter.
Each month, the Board addresses various administrative tasks, such as overseeing the Creating A Partnership (CAP) program and the Lodge Repair and Improvement grants. These programs benefit Lodges across the state, and it’s rewarding to see Lodges improve their communities and update their facilities.
Many Lodges also have their own funding processes, which often mirror those of the Board of Trustees, allowing them to independently support local projects. While these Lodges may not require Grand Lodge funding, their contributions to their communities are equally important.
The Board focuses on meeting the needs of Lodges statewide. Your work in your communities matters to us, and we encourage you to reach out with any questions. It’s an honor to serve on the Board as your Deputy Grand Master.
Fraternally, R.W.B. Marc L. Strong Deputy Grand Master
TO Commitment
SUPPORTING THE MASONIC AND EASTERN STAR HOME
By M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp, P.G.M.
The Masonic and Eastern Star Home (MESH) Board meets monthly to oversee the operation of JenningsMcCall Center (JMC) located in Forest Grove, Ore. and our MasonicAid programs. The MESH Board operation is defi ned by our Masonic Code. The membership of the Board is composed of five representatives of this Grand Lodge and three representatives from the Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star of Oregon. Representing Eastern Star is the Immediate Past Grand Matron, Worthy Grand Matron, and Associate Grand Matron. The Grand Conductress attends as a guest. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden, Junior Grand Warden, and the Immediate Past Grand Master shall be the representatives of this Grand Lodge on such Board. The Senior Grand Deacon attends as a guest.
We continue to strive to make JMC the premier retirement home with our focus on level of service and care for the residents. The MESH Board is proud to announce that we have recently completed a significant remodel and restoration of the JMC building and grounds. Th is included interior remodeling in the west entry and lobby, roofi ng on both the Independent and Assisted Living wings, new security camera, and landscape features on the west side of the building.
Keeping the Craft Alive
Masonic Engagement at Jennings McCall Center
Each month, 12 Brethren gather for a “Meeting of the Minds” at the Jennings McCall Center. Discussions span a variety of Masonic topics, from Ritual reviews to exploring insightful articles. A recurring theme in our conversations is the Brothers’ desire to actively attend Lodge meetings.
Recently, five Brothers attended a stated communication at Holbrook Lodge No. 30. Th is visit inspired a collaborative effort with Holbrook and Tuality Lodges to organize a School of Instruction and a Dusty Mason Degree, which was hosted at the Jennings McCall Center on November 9, 2024.
The Brethren at Jennings McCall deeply value the opportunity to feel at home during Lodge activities. Holbrook Lodge has gone above and beyond by providing transportation, exemplifying true brotherly love.
We are also delighted with the recent remodeling of Jennings McCall, which has made it an even more welcoming and comfortable place to share time together. Special thanks go to the MESH Board for their labor of love and dedication to creating such a warm environment.
Fraternally, W.B. Jerald D. “Jerry” Schierling
Th e MESH Board visited with Millie Epperson, a resident of the Jennings-McCall Center and member of Eastern Star, who expressed her appreciation for the renovations and upgrades.
In August, the MESH Board held their annual planning meeting in Boardman, Ore. We invited a guest speaker, Bob Roth from Wisconsin who has extensive experience with Masonic and Eastern Star homes. We focused on the mission and vision of the MESH Board and continued long-range planning so we can be proactive in meeting current and future challenges of maintaining and operating JMC. We also spent time on how we can continue to provide the best MasonicAid to our members in need and how to expand our outreach efforts.
I encourage you to support our Masonic and Eastern Star Home by donating to the Home Endowment fund. As Masons and Eastern Star members, we have lived up to our obligations by providing assistance to our members with our MasonicAid programs and JMC.
Thank you to all who have donated funds, time, and resources to the success of our Masonic and Eastern Star Home.
The Story Behind ‘The Home’
by Johnny J. Edwards, Grand Historian
Take a moment to step back in time, and picture the 1920s through the Great Depression of the 1930s. Th is was an era when men worked until age or failing health forced them to stop. For the common laborer, there were no pensions, no safety net, and no health insurance for widows. When the Depression struck, it led to widespread layoff s, leaving many of our senior Brothers and Sisters without family to care for them, or even a place to call home.
But one thing they could always rely on was the Masonic Family and our Masonic obligations.
In 1917, during the Annual Communication, the Grand Master placed great emphasis on the need for a Masonic Home. He appointed a special committee to begin the work. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of the Masonic Home and Educational Fund. Formally named the “Masonic and Eastern Star Home” in Forest Grove, it was lovingly known simply as “The Home.”
By 1920, at the Annual Communication, it was reported that construction of the Home was well underway, with the estimated cost rising to $200,000. A fundraising drive was
Building a Masonic Haven
already in motion to secure the necessary funds.
In 1921, the Grand Master proudly announced that the Home had been built and furnished, with funding available for its maintenance. On March 1, 1922, the Masonic Home was officially dedicated with due Masonic ceremony.
Once a member of our Masonic Family entered the Home, they were no longer alone. These residents received health care, three meals a day, and the comfort of a secure, welcoming environment. The Home provided more than just shelter; it was a sanctuary, a place of belonging and dignity.
I encourage you to set aside a day to visit and experience the original Home in Forest Grove, which is now leased by McMenamins. Walk the hallways where our residents once walked. Pass by the rooms where they lived. Visit the private side rooms where they relaxed, and take a seat in the movie theatre where they enjoyed entertainment and Sunday services. When you visit, remember: the Masonic and Eastern Star Home was more than just a building. It was the place where our Masonic Family members lived, not as strangers, but as members of a community. It was their home.
WORDS FROM A DISTRICT DEPUTY
By R.W.B. Jason T. Hamblen, District Deputy No. 10
Serving the Fraternity in any capacity is an honor that I fi nd both humbling and exciting. I am deeply humbled by the invitation to serve, and equally excited to contribute. I have had the privilege of serving as District Deputy for District No. 10, and while there have been challenges, the rewards have far outweighed them, leaving me with memories that will last a lifetime.
Each Lodge has its own unique history and personality, and District 10 exemplifies this diversity. I believe this is something worth celebrating. Within the district, we often distinguish between “City Lodges” and “Country Lodges,” which, while indicative of geographical traits, only scratch the surface of each Lodge’s true character. Every Lodge in our district has worked diligently to cultivate its focus and culture. A notable example is Pearl Lodge No. 66, affectionately known as “The Jewel of the Valley.” Th is cultural development within Lodges allows candidates to fi nd a Masonic home that resonates with them, fostering meaningful connections with Brothers who share similar interests and are eager to make a lasting impact on the lives of new Masons.
Over the past three years, I have witnessed one Lodge make a remarkable transformation. Th rough long-term planning, shared goals, and a commitment to inclusivity,
they have created a warm, welcoming, and forwardthinking environment. The results of their efforts have been rewarding, proving that even the most ambitious tasks can be accomplished with the right vision and unity among the Brothers.
Another Lodge in our district has faced the challenge of a small membership, with only a handful of dedicated Brothers carrying the Lodge forward. Their determination and steadfast commitment to ensuring the Lodge’s future are truly inspiring. I also had the opportunity to witness the consolidation of another Lodge, a process that required the Brothers to strengthen their bonds in ways they had not anticipated. Despite the difficulties, they emerged stronger, and the Lodge is now moving forward with renewed excitement and optimism.
There are countless stories I could share—about the events, the relationships, and the opportunities I’ve experienced— but what stands out to me most is the honor of serving my Brothers. I am proud to call each of them my Brother. I recently heard someone say that Masons aren’t doing what they used to. I respectfully disagree. While we may not be building new Lodge buildings as frequently as in the past, our true work continues: We build men! I see the evidence of this every day.
“OUR TRUE WORK CONTINUES: WE BUILD MEN! I SEE THE EVIDENCE OF THIS EVERY DAY.”
- R.W.B. Jason T. Hamblen, District Deputy No. 10
Building a Legacy
THE IMPACT OF ESTATE GIVING
by W.B. Eric M. Young, Senior Grand Deacon
A common question these days is, “What’s in it for me?” When it comes to giving to your Lodge or Oregon Freemasonry, the answer is profound: your contributions have far-reaching benefits. Here’s how they make a difference:
IMPACTS OF YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS
� TAX BENEFITS: Donations can lower your annual and estate taxes, and reduce inheritance taxes.
� SUPPORT YOUR LODGE: Help fund local Lodge operations, programs, and improvements.
� AID YOUR BROTHERS: Assist Masons in need across Oregon via MasonicAid.
� PROMOTE MASONIC PROGRAMS: Support efforts on local and national levels, such as funding the National George Washington Memorial and Masonic Services Association.
� CREATE A LEGACY: Transferring funds outside your estate ensures they are excluded from estate tax calculations, allowing you to leave a lasting mark on your Lodge and community.
WAYS TO GIVE
� DIRECT DONATIONS: Make contributions monthly, annually, or as a one-time gift now or in the future.
� PAYABLE ON DEATH (POD): Designate Oregon Masonic charities as a POD beneficiary on bank accounts, which simplifies the transfer of funds and helps avoid probate.
� QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTIONS (QCDS): Donate your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts directly to charity. These donations are tax-free.
� WILLS AND TRUSTS: Include Oregon Masonic charities in your will or trust to reduce estate taxes and
meet specific fi nancial goals. Charitable trusts can even generate income during your lifetime while benefiting Oregon Masonic charities after you pass.
� PROPERTY DONATIONS*: Gift real estate—such as a home or acreage—and retain lifetime use while transferring ownership.
� APPRECIATED STOCK: Donate stocks to avoid longterm capital gains taxes.
� LIFE INSURANCE: Name Oregon Masonic charities as a beneficiary on your policy.
THE LEGACY OF GIVING
Whether you give $100 or 100 million, your contributions create a ripple effect that supports your Lodge, your Brothers, and your community. These investments ensure Freemasonry continues to foster leadership, community engagement, and personal growth in future generations. That is a legacy you and your family can take pride in.
If you’d like guidance on the many ways to give, schedule an in-person consultation with your fi nancial advisor to explore options tailored to you.
As a 38-year Master Mason, I’ve heard countless stories of how our forefathers built our Lodges. These men would travel for hours on horseback, stay overnight in hotels or Brothers’ homes, and make their Lodge the heartbeat of the community. Their dedication was extraordinary.
We have the opportunity to continue that tradition. By giving, we honor their legacy and ensure that our Lodges remain strong pillars in our communities. Let’s invest in our Craft and the men who will carry it forward.
OREGON
Lodge No. 30
Washington Lodge No. 46
Croft Lodge No. 206
No. 41
Lodge No. 9
Reames Chapter No. 66
Adah Chapter No. 34
Widow, Jennings Lodge No. 9
Silver Wave Chapter No. 18
Widow, Lents Lodge No. 156
MasonicAid’s Giving Tree
The holiday season is here once again, and our annual MasonicAid Giving Tree program is underway. MasonicAid has carefully selected 40 Masonic & Eastern Star members who may be in poor health, in need of fi nancial assistance, or grieving the loss of a loved one, to receive a gift from the membership at Christmastime. If you would like to make a fi nancial donation to one of our MasonicAid Sisters and Brothers, please select a member from the list.
Thank you for helping us continue the tradition of charity and goodwill and supporting our most vulnerable MasonicAid members during the holiday season!
Donate online at www.OregonFreemasonry.com/Donate or call the Grand Lodge office at 503.357.3158. Give by Friday, December 13 to allow delivery by Christmas.
11. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
12. Cott age Grove Chapter No. 4
13. La Grande Lodge No. 41
14. East Gate Lodge No. 155
15. Ashland Lodge No. 23
16. Enlightenment Lodge No. 228
17. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
18. Union Lodge No. 3
19. Klamath Lodge No. 77
20. North Bend Lodge No. 140
21. Corvallis Lodge No. 14
22. Rainier Lodge No. 24
23. McKenzie River Lodge No. 195
24. Adah Chapter No. 34
25. Wabanang Chapter No. 127
26. Widow, Kenton Lodge No. 145
27. Widow, Cornerstone Lodge No. 157
28. Willamette Lodge No. 2
29. Jefferson Lodge No. 33
30. Grants Pass Lodge No. 84
31. East Gate Lodge No. 155
32. Pioneer Chapter No. 28
33. Esther Chapter No. 11
34. Holbrook Lodge No. 30
35. Tualatin Chapter No. 31
36. Washington Lodge No. 46
37. Columbia Lodge No. 114
38. Valliant Sellwood Chapter No. 92
39. Widow, Tigard-Orenomah Lodge No. 207
40. Valliant Sellwood Chapter No. 92
By supporting the Giving Tree,
Your gifts bring Christmas cheer to vulnerable Masonic Family members!
Thank you for supporting
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the Grand Lodge staff
Dusty Masons Gathering at Jennings McCall
At the sound of the gavel, the Brothers gathered to participate in the Dusty Mason program under the direction of W.B. William D. Cole of Holbrook Lodge No. 30. The Lodge was held at the Jennings McCall center in the Grand Theater. The program covered the role of the officers and their duties, modes of recognition, and a reflection on the working tools from each Degree and how they apply to our daily lives. Each Brother participated in these Ritual matters to help them become comfortable when attending Lodges. The Brethren mention that they enjoyed relearning those things that have been forgotten over the years and felt that the time was well worth the labors of the W.B. Cole. A spark of enthusiasm was evident as the Lodge was closed and conversations continued.
Pictured: W.B. William C. Hamburg, Bro. Marvin Shaffer, W.B. Paul E. Larson, W.B. Glenn Munkres, W.B. Jerald D. “Jerry” Schierling, R.W.B. Richard A. “Rick” Fieldhouse DD0GM District 2, W.B. William D. Cole, W.B. Larry M. White, W.B. Jim Thompson
JAN. 6, 2025 Proposed Legislation is due to the Grand Secretary’s office.
Tillamook Bay Community College Scholarships
The 2024 Tillamook Lodge No. 57 scholarship recipients were honored at the Mildred Davy Recognition event on October 18, held at the Officer’s Mess at the Port of Tillamook. This year’s scholarship recipients were Noel Wassmer and Jessica Logsdon, who are pictured at the event, along with Brothers Mark L. Kennedy and John A. Glines. The Tillamook Lodge CTE Scholarship was awarded to Jesus Ontiveros-Aispuro, who was unable to attend. Tillamook Lodge No. 57 is committed to supporting local students in their educational pursuits.
Lodge Histories Due
Lodge Historians,
As required by the Code, Lodge histories must be submitted by December 31.
Please mail USPS or email your yearly Lodge histories to the Grand Historian’s email address before the end of December. Any format is acceptable. The proper form can be found in Grand View.
All of our Lodge histories make up the Grand Lodge of Oregon history.
Fraternally, Johnny J. Edwards
Grand Historian jedwards@oregonfreemasonry.com
The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta
For the second year, TigardOrenomah Lodge No. 207 sponsored a pumpkin in the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. This annual community event in Tualatin is a unique Fall festival. Brother Jeremy A. Vecht was the captain of our great pumpkin for the second year in a row, aiming to better his finish from last year. Due to some rough seas he wasn’t able to get a podium spot this year, however it was another great year of fun.
Westgate Training at Pearl Lodge
The Westgate Training session at Pearl Lodge No. 66 was a huge success. Thirteen Brothers, two district deputies, and M.W.B W. Myles McMillan, P.G.M. attended, representing 10 Lodges.
Many thanks fo Pearl Lodge No. 66 for hosting and to W.B. Justin Fleming for organizing the event.
The Legacy of W.B. Joseph C. Lambert
In June, the Research Lodge of Oregon No. 198 recognized its honored and cherished patriarch, W.B. Joseph C. Lambert, with his 50-year pin and certificate. A Masonic career as remarkable as the man who has lived it, W.B. Lambert was made a Master Mason on November 16, 1973 in Alpha Lodge No. 1594 in Georgetown, Guyana, South America. Joseph eventually made his way to the United States, and first visited the Research Lodge of Oregon No. 198 on December 17, 1987. By February of the following year, he was a member, giving the inLodge education that evening on the topic of “Masonry in Guyana.”
Among the many offices held throughout his storied journey, W.B. Lambert has served the Lodge as Worshipful Master four times – in 1994, 1995, 2003, and 2015. He was elected Treasurer in 2016, and has remained in the chair ever since. As a larger-than-life, quick-witted, and inexhaustibly insightful man and Mason, he truly embodies and upholds the ethos and mission of the Research Lodge of Oregon – a curated collection of erudite, Masonic scholars and educators with a penchant for a firstclass refreshment table.
Although not a Prince Hall Mason, Joseph’s inclusion in endeavors made by a group of several Past Masters in Oregon led to the eventual recognition of Prince Hall Masonry by the Grand Lodge of Oregon in 1997.
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
The Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon
2150 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116
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2025 Secretary Seminar
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME SERVING AS LODGE SECRETARY!
Attend the free, in-person Secretary Seminar to learn how you can best serve in this leadership role. On Friday we will cover Secretary basics and forms. Saturday will feature brand new roll outs in Grand View.
Topics of Interest:
• Grand View 2.0
• DD Inspection Prep
• Managing Membership Data
• Dues Statements
• Lodge Security with Local Police
• Affiliations Process Changes
• Q&A with the Grand Secretary ...and More!
MEALS PROVIDED
Friday Evening
Saturday Breakfast & Lunch
The Grand Lodge strongly recommends the attendance of each Lodge Secretary, but invites all Master Masons to attend. The presentations and information are pivotal to the Secretary role. This year will focus heavily on many new features launched in Grand View and how these tools can help your Lodge.
Please register and submit any supply orders to the Grand Secretary’s office no later than one week before the event. There is no fee to attend.
1-5 P.M. ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 & 9 A.M. - 3 P.M. ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
Robert M. Richmond Library & Museum
2240 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116 (adjacent to the Grand Lodge office)
