OREGON MASONIC NEWS
DECEMBER
EXECUTIVE
Holly Darling OMN@oregonfreemasonry.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Marc
Andre
Richard
Daniel V. De La Rosa
William K.
Sharing the Passion This Holiday Season and Beyond
We hope you enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by family, friends, and the fellowship of our Masonic community. Th is season reminds us how important it is to pause, reflect, and appreciate the meaningful connections that strengthen both our homes and our Lodges.
As we move into the Christmas and New Year holidays, we take great pride in our distinguished Oregon Masonic Family and look forward to celebrating with you. The winter season brings not only joy and togetherness but also renewal—a chance to welcome new and returning Lodge officers as they begin their Masonic terms and continue the work of building harmony, growth, and brotherly love within their Lodges.
The activities and gatherings that fi ll this season remind us of how rewarding it is to serve and share in our Masonic fellowship. We encourage everyone to take time for family and community, celebrate your successes, and approach the challenges ahead with faith, patience, and optimism.
We also look forward to meeting with our newly-installed and continuing officers as they guide their Lodges toward another productive and meaningful year. Thoughtful planning and dedication will continue to strengthen the Craft across Oregon and beyond.
It remains one of the greatest honors of my life to serve as your Grand Master and to represent Oregon Freemasonry wherever we travel. Each visit reaffi rms the strength, compassion, and unity of our fraternity. Grand Lady Lanni and I are deeply grateful for your warmth, kindness, and hospitality at every stop along the way.
Looking ahead, we’re especially excited about the upcoming Grand Master’s trip to Washington, D.C., in April. With about 30 already signed up, it promises to be a memorable experience as Oregon Freemasonry is proudly represented at the George Washington National Masonic Memorial. Everyone is welcome—membership in a Grand Lodge office is not required. Details can be found at OregonFreemasonry.com/WA-DC , and the last day to sign up is January 26, 2026
We look forward to sharing this new year with you—our Oregon Masonic Family. Together, let us continue to share the passion, uphold our traditions, and build upon the light that unites us all.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Marc L. Strong Grand Master 2025-2026
Scan this QR code to view the Wash., D.C. itinerary & details.
DawnTHE
Celebrating the Feast of St. John the Evangelist
W.B. Andre J. Cvitanich, Grand Pursuivant
As the calendar year winds down and the light of December burns low, Freemasons around the world gather to celebrate the Feast of St. John the Evangelist on December 27. A day in our Jurisdiction that marks the beginning of our Masonic year, a time for renewal, reflection, and rededication to the principles that unite us as Brothers. In contrast to the Feast of St. John the Baptist, which honors zeal, light, and outward action, the Feast of St. John the Evangelist represents introspection, wisdom, and the illumination within.
For our jurisdiction, this day also marks the ceremonial “passing of the keys” from the outgoing Worshipful Master to his successor. This act is not merely symbolic, it represents the sacred transfer of authority, responsibility, and trust. The keys are not of metal, but of faith, diligence, and integrity. These are the tools with which a Worshipful Master governs wisely and leads with humility.
long after his year in the East concludes. The keys pass but the Light endures.
"The keys pass but the Light endures."
For the Brethren, witnessing this transition is both solemn and joyful. It reminds us that the Lodge, like life, is an unbroken chain of service and succession. Each Worshipful Master contributes his Light to the Great Work, ensuring that the Lodge continues to thrive
For the newly installed Worshipful Master and his officers, this day is their first opportunity to open the Lodge without the pressure of holding a Stated meeting. Relieved of the pressures of an overwhelming agenda and the administrative duties that come with the government of a Lodge meeting, it allows the new leadership to come together in peace and open the Lodge not in public display, but in unity and with purpose. This quiet moment of initiation into their roles is deeply symbolic. It reminds the officers that the real work of Masonry begins not with ceremony, but with understanding, not with spectacle, but with sincerity. It is in that sacred stillness when the Worshipful Master first gavels the Lodge open under his charge that the true beginning of the Masonic year unfolds.
Hosting a Table Lodge on St. John’s Day is a cherished tradition in Masonry. In Oregon we have two types of ritual Table Lodge which allow for all Masons, from the new Entered Apprentice to the most senior Master Mason, to break bread, toast, and laugh heartily together in fellowship.
THE FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST
At Eugene Lodge No. 11 we have honored this day with our annual celebration for many years. Each year the Brethren come together at our Table Lodge sharing presentations and playing music along with toasting their heartfelt reflections that bring warmth to the season and meaning to the Craft . The talents and contributions of our members have made this event a living tradition, one that celebrates not only the lessons of St. John the Evangelist but also the spirit of unity and brotherhood that defi nes our Lodge.
You can fi nd the procedure for planning and hosting a Table Lodge for your Lodge in the Resources section of Grand View (or.grandview.systems/public_members/resources), simply look for Table Lodges – Lodge Programs. There you will fi nd two detailed options for conducting a Table Lodge including suggested layouts, guidance on ritual order, and tips for creating a memorable evening of fellowship. The complete instructions begin on page 57, providing everything you need to plan and host a Table Lodge that honors both tradition and the spirit of Brotherly Love.
Excerpt om page 36 of the Ritual — "Lodges in ancient times were dedicated to King Solomon; but modern Masons dedicate theirs to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, who were two eminent patrons of Masonry; and since their time, there should be represented in every regular and well furnished Lodge, a certain Point Within a Circle, embordered by two perpendicular parallel lines, representing St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. Upon the top of the circle rests the Volume of the Sacred Law. The point represents an individual Brother, the circle the boundary line of his duty. In going around this circle, we necessarily touch upon the two parallel lines, as well as the Volume of the Sacred Law; and while a Mason keeps himself circumscribed within their precepts it is impossible that he should materially err."
St. John the Evangelist
"Saint John and the eagle" by Vladimir Borovikovsky in Kazan Cathedral, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Scan this QR code to view Table Lodge - Lodge Programs on Grand View
Actively Moving the Craft Forward
By R.W.B. Richard D. Varner, Deputy Grand Master
Earlier this summer, many of you heard about a small but important adjustment regarding members in good standing with one Lodge but suspended for NonPayment of Dues (NPD) in another. This change was made to ensure full adherence to Code Section 2.5. After reviewing all current NPD situations, Grand Lodge staff recommended that the Trustees reconsider how these cases were handled. Their concern was that the previous approach, developed last spring, could unintentionally result in good Masons losing their membership through no fault of their own—and could unjustly prevent families of Brothers from receiving needed assistance. Rather than simply presenting the issue, staff proposed a thoughtful solution: converting these NPDs to Severances if the Brother maintained active membership in another Oregon Lodge. The Trustees approved this one-time adjustment as the most equitable path forward—upholding Code, while maintaining the spirit of Brotherly Love.
Financially, the Grand Lodge has enjoyed relative stability for several years. However, while reviewing long-term financial projections, the Trustees identified future shifts that may significantly affect operations. The current lease between the Grand Lodge and Jennings McCall ends in April 2028. This has supplied significant net revenue to the Grand Lodge. During the August retreat, Trustees devoted substantial time to analyzing revenue and expense forecasts over the next five years and explored multiple strategies for maintaining balance. This planning will continue as work begins on the
2026-27 Budget, ensuring the Grand Lodge remains wellpositioned for the future.
Additionally, interest in Freemasonry remains steady, with inquiries continuing to flow into both the Grand Lodge office and local Lodges. A primary concern has been ensuring timely follow-up by Lodges at the local level. To support this effort, the Trustees approved the creation of a new Grand View role: the District Prospect Manager. This role will help track prospects across each district, assist Lodges in following up promptly, and provide general support during the inquiry process. R.W.B. Eric M. Young, Junior Grand Warden, has been instrumental in launching this initiative.
Finally, the Educational Assistance Program—our oldest and most impactful offering—also saw meaningful updates this year. Program Director Mrs. Courtney Chun identified a published study from United For ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), widely used by private foundations to determine financial need, providing a modernized and objective framework for evaluating assistance. The Trustees approved updated criteria aligned with this research, enabling the program to more accurately identify families who need support, particularly in an era of rising costs and inflation.
These changes span a wide range of our fraternal business, each rooted in stewardship, care, and foresight. It remains our privilege to serve the Oregon Craft through our roles as Trustees of the Grand Lodge of Oregon.
IN EVERY LODGE
By R.W.B. Daniel V. De La Rosa, District Deputy No. 10
Serving as a District Deputy has been, for me, both humbling and uniquely personal. It’s not easy work—it asks for patience, travel, and at times, more courage than I expected. The role has shaped me in ways I’m still discovering.
Grand Master Marc Strong’s theme, “Share the Passion,” has taken on deeper meaning through this experience. I’ve learned that no one carries this responsibility alone. I rely on the Lodges in my district more than they probably realize. Their questions, energy, and even their occasional disagreements remind me that the Craft in Oregon is alive, breathing, and constantly shaping itself. My title feels less like a badge of authority and more like a working tool—something meant to help square the corners and keep the work true.
Before official visits, I still get
butterfl ies. Maybe it’s pride, or maybe it’s that quiet voice that just wants to get it right. I always hope what I share will be genuinely useful to the Brethren, not just another checklist of duties. When that nervousness starts to rise, I take a deep breath and remind myself: I’m a Mason—share the passion It may sound simple, even a little cliché, but it helps me step back from selfconsciousness and focus on purpose. What continues to surprise me is how different Lodges can feel. I’ve served in both Districts 9 and 10, and while each shares the same landmarks, rituals, and values, every Lodge has its own personality. One Lodge excels in fellowship and laughter over dinner; another thrives in ritual excellence or community service. Each Brother leaves a piece of himself woven into the fabric of his Lodge. Sometimes those personalities clash, but that diversity
isn’t a weakness—it’s the mortar that binds us together, providing both strength and character.
Every meeting teaches me something new. A wise word from a Past Master or a curious question from an Entered Apprentice keeps me grounded and grateful. I often ask myself: What can I do to genuinely support these Lodges?
Perhaps that’s the real purpose of this journey—to keep working on the rough ashlar within, using the tools of Masonry to shape its edges and bring it closer to perfection, knowing it will never truly be fi nished.
As we approach the holiday season, I am deeply thankful for the fellowship, patience, and humor of the Brethren who walk beside me. Together, we’re not just building our Lodges—we’re building each other. Th rough it all, I’ll keep reminding myself, and others, to share the passion
“EACH BROTHER LEAVES A PIECE OF HIMSELF WOVEN INTO THE FABRIC OF HIS LODGE...THAT DIVERSITY ISN’T A WEAKNESS—IT’S THE MORTAR THAT BINDS US TOGETHER.”
- R.W.B. Daniel V. De La Rosa, District Deputy No. 10
Since 1851, Oregon Freemasons have upheld a timeless promise: To Care For One Another.
The 1851 Society celebrates donors who keep that promise alive through annual giving. As the new year approaches, we invite you to continue your support with an annual gi of $100 or more.
Honoring the cumulative giving of those with an annual gi of $100 or more, The 1851 Society recognizes the lasting impact of your commitment over time. Your generosity is at the heart of every success story, and we are grateful for your continued support and trust in the Oregon Masonic Charities.
“We give to the OMCF and Home Endowment because, during one of the hardest times in my life, the Eastern Star and local Masons helped our family without hesitation. Their kindness shaped how we give today, and we’re grateful to pay that forward.”
Marc and Lanni Strong Grand Master 2025-2026
Oregon Masonic 93-1264938
Charitable Foundation
Home Endowment 93-0391591
The best decision you can make
Sharing S rit S s
MasonicAid’s Giving Tree
The holiday season is a time of generosity, reflection, and community—and for MasonicAid, it also means the return of our cherished Giving Tree program. Each year, this tradition brightens the lives of Masonic and Eastern Star members who may be experiencing illness, fi nancial challenges, or the grief of losing a loved one. is season, we invite you to help bring comfort and joy to 50 Brothers, Sisters, and widows through a holiday donation.
Your kindness sustains this tradition of compassion and fellowship, reminding our most vulnerable members that they are remembered, valued, and supported during the season of giving.
Help us in supporting:
1. Jennings Lodge No. 9
2. Widow, Jennings Lodge No. 9
3. Esther Chapter No. 11
4. Esther Chapter No. 11
5. Eugene Lodge No. 11
6. Eugene Lodge No. 11
7. Corvallis Lodge No. 14
8. Silver Wave Chapter No. 18
9. Widow, Ashland Lodge No. 23
10. Ashland Lodge No. 23
11. Rainier Lodge No. 24
12. Champoeg Lodge No. 27
13. Pioneer Chapter No. 28
14. Lyon Lodge No. 29
15. Holbrook Lodge No. 30
16. Holbrook Lodge No. 30
17. Holbrook Lodge No. 30
18. Holbrook Lodge No. 30
19. Tualatin Chapter No. 31
20. Widow, Jefferson Lodge No. 33
21. Adah Chapter No. 34
22. Adah Chapter No. 34
23. La Grande Lodge No. 41
24. La Grande Lodge No. 41
25. Washington Lodge No. 46
26. Martha Chapter No. 48
27. Cott age Grove Lodge No. 51
28. Reames Chapter No. 66
29. Alpine Chapter No. 82
30. Gervais Chapter No. 118
31. Wabanang Chapter No. 127
32. Wabanang Chapter No. 127
33. Kenton Lodge No. 145
34. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
35. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
36. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
37. Friendship Rose Chapter No. 148
38. East Gate Lodge No. 155
39. East Gate Lodge No. 155
40. East Gate Lodge No. 155
41. Widow, Lents Lodge No. 156
42. Molalla Lodge No. 178
43. Meridian Chapter No. 179
44. McKenzie River Lodge No. 195
45. McKenzie River Lodge No. 195
46. Sidney Croft Lodge No. 206
47. Tigard-Orenomah Lodge No. 207
48. Widow, Tigard-Orenomah Lodge No. 207
49. Marys River Lodge No. 221
50. Enlightenment Lodge No. 228
Oregon DeMolay Celebrates Historic Day of Growth and Honor
Largest Initiation Class in Seven Years Marks Milestone for Youth And Masonic Unity
By W.B. William K. Clark
Oregon DeMolay is alive, thriving, and building momentum for the future. On October 3, 2025, young men from across the state gathered at the Salem Scottish Rite Temple for a historic day filled with growth, fellowship, and well-earned recognition for both DeMolay members and the wider Oregon Masonic Family.
The day began with State Master Councilor Bjorn Johnson presiding over the Initiatory and DeMolay Degrees, initiating the largest class of new members in seven years. These young men, representing chapters from throughout Oregon, were honored as the Illustrious Sir Forrest Hatch Class, recognizing the Potentate of Al Kader Shrine for his dedication and support of Masonic youth.
As evening fell, the celebration continued with the conferral of the Chevalier Degree, the highest honor bestowed by DeMolay International, upon State Master Councilor Bjorn Johnson and State Senior Councilor Rocky Zachary. The ceremony marked a milestone moment for Oregon DeMolay, honoring two exceptional young leaders for their outstanding service and commitment.
Three distinguished Oregon Masons were also recognized as the newest members of the DeMolay International Supreme Council:
Elden C. Porter, Champoeg Lodge No. 27
William K. Clark, Tuality Lodge No. 6
Gary R. Mier, East Linn Lodge No. 44 and Willamette Lodge No. 2
Executive Officer John O. Coulter presented special recognition to Brothers James C. Lamb and Wallace J. Carey for 60 years of DeMolay membership, and to Brothers Grant I. Sharp and Ronald Gamble for 65 years of membership.
Adding to the evening’s honors, Most Worshipful
Grand Master Marc L. Strong presented Brother William K. Clark with the Grand Master’s Youth Support Award, recognizing his decades of leadership and guidance within Oregon DeMolay.
The night also included an exciting announcement from Brother William K. Clark, Chairman of the Oregon DeMolay Hall of Fame. The 4th Annual Oregon DeMolay Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held April 11, 2026, at the Al Kader Shrine Center. The 2026 inductees are:
Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Joseph W. Jarvis
Illustrious Sir Ronald L. Gamble
The Honorable John P. Ley
The celebration concluded with the investiture of the Legion of Honor, DeMolay’s highest distinction, awarded to 10 outstanding individuals for their lifelong service and leadership. For the first time in Oregon’s history, two women received this honor — Heather M. Bryan of Bend and Anna M. Lamb of Canby — recognizing their extraordinary contributions to DeMolay’s mission.
Other 2025 Legion of Honor recipients included: MW Grand Master Marc L. Strong, Illustrious Sir Forrest L. Hatch, Dale H. Denham of Sellwood Chapter, Doug Foster of Orenomah Chapter, Mark R. Nelson of Owyhee Chapter, Ken D. Donnelly of Roseburg Chapter, David Judah of Hillsboro Chapter, and Dennis J. Thonstad of Sellwood Chapter.
The day reflected everything DeMolay stands for— leadership, service, and the timeless connection between youth and Masonry. Oregon DeMolay continues to grow, inspire, and share the light of our Masonic heritage with a new generation of builders.
Lodge Histories Due
Lodge Historians,
As required by the Code, Lodge histories must be submitted by December 31.
Please mail by USPS or email your yearly Lodge histories to the Grand Historian’s email address (listed below) 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
Join us Apr. 26 –May 1, 2026
TRAVEL WITH THE GRAND MASTER TO WASHINGTON, D.C.!
Rifle Raffle
Join us for an unforgettable Masonic journey to our nation’s capital Scan this QR code to view the full itinerary & details.
Contact Micki Downey (CST #2081830-40) micki@starandcompass.com (408) 482-9023
Scottish Rite, Limited Edition
Henry Golden Boy Rifle
Own a part of history with this fi rst ever Scottish Rite rifle. The Golden Boy .22 LR is a piece of Wild West Americana. Each rifle is individually numbered and exclusively customized by Henry Repeating Arms. We are raffl ing off #11 of #33.
How to purchase ra e tickets:
1. Only 150 tickets will be sold at $20 per ticket
2. Contact Michael Robinson at (541) 344-1288 or EugeneScottishRite@gmail.com
3. Drawing to be held on January 19, 2026
Important Legal Notice:
Supreme Council SJ USA asks you to follow all local, state, and federal laws and will be in no way held liable for your actions should you become the owner of said firearms. To participate you must be a Master Mason in good standing and able to legally own firearms.
BY ILL. TED BALESTRERI
DATE & TIME
Saturday, December 20th Lecture: 5:30-6:30 pm [Public]
Esoterika Stated Meeting: 7:00 pm [Masons only]
LOCATION 1512 SW Morrison Street Portland, Oregon 97205
$1 0 suggested donation
ree is one of the most prominent numbers in our Western societies, from its religions, from the Christian Trinity; to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, to the ancient goddess triple Goddess of Maiden, Mother, and Crone, to phases of our lives, birth, life, death, or in Freemasonry, our three Blue Lodge Degrees. How has this number been so deeply and universally engraved in our lives?
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
e Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon 2150 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116
Change service requested
Scan this QR Code for a quick link to the other issues of the OMN.
2026 Secretary Seminar
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME SERVING AS LODGE SECRETARY!
Topics of Interest:
• NEW: Accounting Tool Presented by Grand View CEO
• NEW: District Prospect Manager Launch
• NEW: 175th Anniversary
• District Deputy Inspection Prep
• Background Checks for all petitions
• Accepting donations & membership in The 1851 Society
• Q&A with the Grand Secretary ...and More!
MEALS PROVIDED
Attend the free, in-person Secretary Seminar to learn how you can best serve in this leadership role. 1-5 P.M. ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 & 9 A.M. - 3 P.M. ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 31
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 on many new offerings 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.
On the Masonic Campus Forest Grove, OR 97116
