TO FROM INTEREST Initiation
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
MARCH
EXECUTIVE
Grand
CONTRIBUTORS
Timothy J. Best
Dale B. Palileo
John F. Ferguson
Neily M. Cooper II
Eric Headley
James L. Morgan, P.G.M.
Marissa Douglas
Marching Forward
A Month of Masonic Engagement and Brotherhood
March comes in like a lion and is supposed to go out like a lamb. Looking at my calendar, this month is defi nitely shaping up to be a lion! We have some exciting opportunities ahead.
First, we have two Occasional Grand Lodges in March. On March 1, we will be in Portland at Lents Lodge No. 156, and on March 29, we will be in Central Oregon at Bend Lodge No. 139. For both events, doors open at 8:00 AM, and I will drop the gavel at 9:00 AM to begin. Ladies are welcome, so make a day of it! I promise we will be fi nished by 2:00 PM.
Then, on Saturday, March 22, I encourage you to gather as a Lodge of Brothers for our Masonic Day of Training. Th is online event will be broadcast across the state from the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove. We’ll start with an update on the new version of Grand View, followed by a focus on Lodge rejuvenation. I’m looking forward to this opportunity, as we hope to provide tools and ideas to help strengthen your Lodge.
Last month, I challenged each of you to pick up the phone and call a Brother who had not been in Lodge recently. How did that go? I would love to hear from you. Don’t forget about the Brothers who aren’t on the sidelines of your Lodge. We tend to focus on all the Degree work happening in Oregon—and believe me, it is exciting to witness—but if our sidelines are empty now, where will these new Brothers be in five years? Something to think about. Let’s work together to solve this.
Recently, I had the honor and privilege of presenting a 65-year Jewel to a 90-year-old Brother. I visited him at his home on a Sunday afternoon, and I have to tell you—I was the one who came away blessed. As I sat in his living room, he shared stories of how he used to confer Degrees and deliver lectures in his home Lodge back in the early 1960s. It was inspiring to see his memorabilia and mementos, documenting his Masonic journey. I could have easily said, I don’t have time to make the trip, but I am so glad that I did.
So, this month, I challenge you: visit a Brother who is not physically able to attend Lodge. Sit with him, listen to his stories, and share his journey. Every day!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Timothy J. Best Grand Master 2024-2025
TO FROM INTEREST Initiation
The Impact of the WestGate Experience
By R.W.B. John F. Ferguson, Grand Chaplain
WESTGATE EXPERIENCE
When the WestGate Experience program was introduced a few years ago, Redmond Lodge saw an opportunity to bring consistency to our prospective member process. The informal, varied approaches of the past had worked—but not always effectively. We needed a structured, reliable method, and the WestGate Experience provided exactly that.
The program is designed to help Lodges vet and educate prospective members, setting clear expectations and eliminating surprises. It offers a structured roadmap, ensuring that all key points are covered—from financial commitments and time requirements to the personal dedication necessary for a meaningful Masonic journey.
The WestGate Experience is an indispensable tool for retention, and a well-crafted introduction to Freemasonry. Since implementing this method, we have experienced a better understanding, and closer connection to the men that we are potentially accepting into our Fraternity. The “Letter of Introspection” alone is an integral part of understanding the prospects willingness to be forthcoming and exhibit plain dealings.
In today’s digital age, most men interested in Freemasonry begin their search online. While this can be informative, it is also rife with misinformation. The WestGate Experience allows Lodges to address misconceptions early, confirm what a prospect already knows, and provide accurate, Lodgespecific insights. Additionally, incorporating prospects into Lodge activities offers a valuable opportunity to gauge their genuine interest and build relationships with them and their families in a social setting.
At Redmond Lodge, we have encountered men who, after going through the WestGate Experience, realized they were not ready to continue the journey. While some might view this as a lost opportunity, we see it as a strength of the program—it prevents wasted time for both the Lodge and the individual. Many of these candidates likely would not have progressed beyond the Entered Apprentice Degree.
The beauty of the WestGate Experience lies in its flexibility. Lodges can tailor it to fit their unique style while ensuring that the essential vetting process remains thorough. By involving multiple Lodge members in the process, it fosters a collective commitment to strengthening our Fraternity.
For Lodges seeking a more effective approach to welcoming and preparing new members, the WestGate strategy is a valuable tool—one that benefits both the individual and Freemasonry as a whole.
After several face-to-face meetings and repeated involvement in public Masonic events, the Prospect and Lodge can be sure harmony will remain intact and the prospect will be a good fit within the chemistry of our Fraternity and the Lodge he is asking to join; prior to receiving a petition. It is my opinion that jurisdictionwide use of this method would benefit us greatly, and increase completion of the Degrees as well as encourage regular attendance to Lodge.
THE WESTGATE EXPERIENCE IS AN INDISPENSABLE TOOL FOR RETENTION, AND A WELL-CRAFTED INTRODUCTION TO FREEMASONRY.
- Bro. Neily M. Cooper II 32°
Bro. Mason J. Smith’s Master Mason Degree
Elevating the Lodge’s Ritual Experience
By W.B. Dale B. Palileo, Grand Lecturer
Over the past months, I have written about the journey through the degrees, delved into their meanings, and presented ideas and tips that will help you sharpen your skills in floorwork and memorization.
Now, we arrive at the question: How do we elevate these elements into something truly memorable?
Elevating a Lodge’s ritual experience requires intention, practice, and a touch of artistry. In this article, we’ll explore the key elements that can transform routine ritual into a profound and inspiring experience for all in attendance.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty parts of this article, it’s important that you—and by extension your Lodge’s officer corps or degree team—must have a good grasp of the ritual, either by way of the memory work, the floor work, or both. All this information will be useless unless you have a strong command of the basics.
Secondly, elevating the Lodge’s ritual experience does not only apply to a degree conferral. It applies to all aspects of Masonic ritual, whether it be just a short form opening or giving a charge. In fact, it can be argued that an elevated ritual experience during the opening of the Lodge in any degree can dictate the quality of the entire evening.
With that in mind, let’s look at the salient points in elevating your Lodge’s ritual experience.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Practice and repetition are the foundations upon which an exceptional ritual experience is built. Repetition not only ensures memorization but also cultivates confidence, allowing you and the Lodge’s officers to focus on delivery rather than struggling to recall words or movements. When a ritual is performed with precision, it creates an atmosphere of reverence and professionalism, elevating the experience for both the participant and the audience.
Additionally, practice reveals subtleties in the ritual— intonation, pacing, and gestures—that might otherwise be overlooked. These details are what transform a routine performance into a powerful, meaningful event. Consistent practice also fosters unity among officers, ensuring seamless transitions and synchronized floorwork, which reinforce the solemnity and impact of the ritual.
Simply put, without practice, the ritual remains ordinary; with it, it becomes extraordinary.
ADD AN AIR OF THEATRICS
Adding an air of theatrics to the ritual experience is essential because it brings the ceremony to life in a way that resonates deeply with the participants and the audience. Theatrics does not mean overacting; rather, it involves intentional use of tone, body language, and presence to evoke emotion and convey the deeper meaning of the ritual. By embracing theatrical elements, the ritualist becomes a storyteller, drawing everyone into the symbolic journey of the degree. A well-timed pause, a deliberate gesture, or an impassioned inflection can transform a simple phrase into a profound statement that leaves a lasting impression. This level of performance elevates the ritual from a mere recitation of words to a dynamic experience. It also ensures the lessons and values of Freemasonry are both felt and remembered. When done thoughtfully, theatrics add depth and gravity and enriches the overall impact of the Lodge’s work.
It’s important to clarify that adding an air of theatrics does not require formal theater experience or a background in acting. Instead, it’s about adopting a mindset of intentionality and presence. Anyone can bring a sense of theatrics to ritual by focusing on small, deliberate actions—such as maintaining steady eye contact, speaking with purpose, and using natural gestures to emphasize key points. This isn’t about putting on a performance; it’s about ensuring that your delivery reflects the gravity and meaning of the ritual. Theatrics, in this context, simply means being mindful of how your words and actions affect others, ensuring they align with the dignity and symbolism of the ceremony. It’s not about pretending to be someone else—it’s about embodying the best version of yourself as a ritualist, creating an atmosphere that captivates and inspires everyone in the room.
TALK TO THE CANDIDATE, BUT SPEAK TO THE ROOM
This is a principle that balances personal connection with broad engagement, and it is crucial to elevating the ritual experience. When addressing a candidate during a degree, the words should feel intimate and directed specifically to them, as if they are the sole focus of the ritual. This personal approach makes the candidate feel valued and immersed in the experience.
However, the delivery must also be mindful of the entire Lodge, ensuring the audience feels included and connected to the moment. Project your voice! Maintain clear enunciation! Embody the gravity of the ritual to ensure that everyone present can appreciate the ceremony’s significance.
This dual focus—speaking intimately to the candidate while engaging the room as a whole—creates a shared, impactful experience, reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood and the timeless lessons of Freemasonry.
SLOW DOWN
Slowing down is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate the impact of a ritual. When a ritualist rushes through the words, the meaning and significance can be lost, leaving the candidate and audience disconnected from the experience. This is particularly important because, oftentimes, Brothers who have a good grasp of the memorized parts of the ritual think they are doing a great job by speaking quickly. However, this should be strongly discouraged, as speed can undermine the solemnity and clarity of the ritual.
Slowing down allows for proper enunciation, giving weight to each word and phrase. It also gives the listeners time to absorb the symbolism and reflect on the deeper messages being conveyed. Pauses, when used intentionally, can emphasize important moments and build anticipation, drawing the audience further into the ritual.
Continued on page 7 ▶
Beyond Our Lodge
The Rewarding Experience of Masonic Travel
By W.B. Eric Headley, Grand Marshal
One of the most fulfi lling benefits to me as a Mason is to travel and see other Lodges and ritual. Traveling as a Freemason is an experience that enriches both the individual and the Fraternity. One of the core principles of Freemasonry is the idea of brotherhood and mutual support—traveling offers a unique opportunity to embrace these values in tangible ways. It allows us to visit new Lodges, meet new Brothers from different parts of the city, state, or world, and experience the diversity of ritual and culture. Whether it’s a different style of ritual, unique customs, or even the way the Lodge is built and decorated, reflects local culture and history and each new experience can be rewarding.
Traveling also opens the door to forging new friendships. The moment a Mason enters another Lodge, they are met with open arms, greeted as Brothers, and welcomed.
Last spring I was working at a new location on the coast. A coworker had brought her family along from Washington for some vacation time and her husband happened to be wearing a Masonic hat when I met him. We connected and chatted a bit over the next few months. In November, he was elected to the East, and I was invited to give the Marshal's proclamation
at his installation. It’s an honor that I won’t forget, and I have made new friends in the Brothers of Shoreline Lodge No. 248. I have been to the Grand Lodge of France and was given a personal tour by the Grand Historian. I have been to the Grand Lodge of Luxembourg and the Grand Lodge of Belgium. I have visited Lodges in Montana, Colorado, California, and Washington. Each one of these experiences has made me appreciate this Fraternity more as I would never have had this opportunity if not for Freemasonry.
I feel that travel brings a personal sense of enrichment that can be deeply fulfi lling. Without the opportunity to travel, I could have missed out on invaluable chances to observe ritual work and glean ideas to improve mine. Additionally, without travel, I wouldn’t have met the lifelong friends I’ve made along the way—Brothers who share not only the same values but who have become an important part of my personal and Masonic journey. Traveling has truly enriched my Masonic experience in ways I could never have imagined staying within the confi nes of my home Lodge. I encourage everyone to get out and go visit another Lodge, whether it's in the next town or the next state. The experiences you have will be more rewarding than you can imagine.
Doors
A measured pace also conveys confidence and control, which enhances the overall sense of solemnity and importance. In Freemasonry, every word carries meaning, and taking the time to deliver those words thoughtfully ensures that their power is fully realized. By slowing down, the ritualist transforms the ceremony from a recitation into a profound and memorable experience.
BE IN THE PROPER MINDSET
Being in the proper mindset is essential to delivering a truly impactful ritual, as it sets the tone for the entire experience. Ritual is more than just memorization and performance—it is an act of intent and purpose. A ritualist must approach their work with a clear understanding of why the ritual is being performed and the deeper significance behind every word and action. Th is means taking the time to center yourself, leaving behind distractions, and fully immersing yourself in the role. Your mindset influences your delivery, ensuring that your words carry the weight of their meaning rather than being spoken mechanically.
Similarly, intent is what transforms the ritual into a meaningful act, rather than a routine task. When your actions are guided by a genuine desire to inspire, teach, or uplift , this sincerity resonates with both the candidate and the audience. A proper mindset and clear intent not only elevate the ritual but also remind everyone involved of the sacred and symbolic nature of the work being done.
In summation, Ritual is the framework by which we as Masons exemplify the most poignant human conditions and experiences from which our lessons are derived. It serves as a bridge between the timeless principles of Freemasonry and the hearts and minds of those who experience it. Isn’t it in our best interest, and perhaps more importantly, in our candidates’ best interest, that we present this work with the quality, dedication, and reverence it deserves?
Good ritual is more than just tradition; it is a demonstration of respect for the candidate’s time, effort, and commitment to joining our fraternity. When we perform ritual with care and excellence, we not only honor the sacred traditions of the Craft but also ensure that the candidate’s journey is as meaningful and inspiring as possible.
Every word, gesture, and moment in a ritual carries the potential to leave a lasting impression. Let us, therefore, strive to elevate our work in a way that reflects the profound significance of the lessons we impart and demonstrates the depth of our commitment to Freemasonry’s enduring legacy—making every moment worthy of those who experience it. ◀ Elevating the Lodge’s Ritual Experience continued
Keeping Politics Out of the Lodge
Do Politics Belong in Freemasonry? Absolutely Not!
Within the Lodge walls, discussions of religion and politics have no place. If you would like to reference this, the newly published Standard Manual by the Grand Secretary’s Office provides valuable guidance on this important principle.
I trust each of you to uphold this standard and ensure our Lodges remain places of harmony and brotherhood.
With the recent presidential election in our nation and the changes we are witnessing, it can be tempting to discuss current events, no matter where you stake your political flag. However, such discussions only serve to disrupt the peace and harmony of the Lodge. Unfortunately, this has been occurring in some of our Oregon Lodges. As your Grand Master, I cannot tolerate this behavior.
We must remember that we have good Brothers on both
sides of the political aisle, and we need to respect each other. Our Lodges should remain sanctuaries of brotherhood, unity, and mutual support, where our shared values of brotherly love, relief, and truth transcend personal and political differences. Let us remain vigilant in preserving the harmony of our Lodges, ensuring that Freemasonry continues to be
a beacon of unity for all its members. I trust each of you to uphold this standard and ensure our Lodges remain places of harmony and brotherhood.
Fraternally,
M.W.B. Timothy J. Best Grand Master 2024-25
Calling all Creatives!
occasi
regon Freemasonry is approaching a historic milestone our 175th Anniversary! To celebrate this remarkable occasion, we are inviting Freemasons and members of the Masonic Family to contribute their creative talents by submitting design concepts for this special anniversary. Whether you’re a graphic designer, painter, illustrator, or have a unique artistic vision, we want to see your ideas!
This is a rare opportunity to leave your mark on Oregon Freemasonry’s legacy, sharing your artistic vision with the entire Masonic community. Whether classic, modern, or symbolic, your design should reflect the rich history and enduring values of our Fraternity.
Have an idea? We’d love to see it! Submit your concept today and be part of Masonic history. The selected design may be used in commemorative materials, events, and promotions in celebration of this milestone year.
A Weekend of Education & Engagement
Key Lessons from the 2025 Secretary Seminar
by M.W.B. James L. Morgan, P.G.M., Grand Secretary
The 2025 Secretary Seminar was held on January 24 and 25 at the Robert M. Richmond Memorial Library and Museum on the Grand Lodge campus in Forest Grove. Approximately 80 Lodge Secretaries, Worshipful Masters, and other interested members joined the Grand Lodge staff.
The Friday afternoon session covered the Duties of a Lodge. It served as a valuable refresher for experienced Lodge Secretaries and provided new Secretaries with the knowledge to help the Worshipful Master stay in compliance with the Code. The District Deputy’s Checklist was reviewed and discussed, helping secretaries prepare for the District Deputy’s official visit in the Spring to review Lodge records. There
GRAND VIEW RESOURCES
was also a review of Secretary Basics as outlined in the Secretary’s Handbook, the importance of maintaining a Black Book, and a discussion about online versus paper forms. Secretaries were reminded to check and update any physical forms in their offices.
After a short break, there was a review of report due dates, a presentation on the necessary tax forms to be fi led, the need to conduct an annual audit, and the completion of forms 71 and 72 dealing with Lodge fi nances. The afternoon session concluded with a discussion on record retention and some Grand View basics. Following the presentations, attendees and staff enjoyed pizza and fellowship.
The seminar resumed Saturday
Where you can find helpful tools and 2025 Secretary Handbook which includes information on:
• Background Checks
morning with pastries, fruits, coffee, and other beverages. The fi rst item on the agenda was a review of the duties of the Secretary, followed by the procedures for suspending a Brother for nonpayment of dues and for an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft who has failed to advance. Presentations on Out of State Affi liations, Form 5 use, Longevity Award applications, and other awards were given.
After the break, Dispensations, By-Laws amendments, and the Oregon Masonic News were covered. There was a presentation on Liability Insurance and who to contact if there is an incident in the Lodge. The morning wrapped up with a presentation on the Oregon Masonic Charities including
• Out of State Affiliation Process
• Dues Statements
• Forms and Procedures
• Ritual Tool
• And more…
SCAN THIS QR CODE AND LOGIN TO GRAND VIEW TO ACCESS THESE FEATURES
the Educational Assistance program, which saw several changes in 2024.
The afternoon was devoted to Grand View, with in-depth discussions and demonstrations about the background check process, the new online dues payment process, Inquiries and Lodge prospect managers, the Ritual Parts tool, and dues statements.
The attendance this year fi lled the library and if we have this kind of attendance next year we will move the seminar back to the Jefferson Room in the Jennings McCall Center.
Thank you, from the Grand Lodge staff, for your attendance and participation. Your active participation in the event enhances the knowledge share so everyone gets more out of the event.
W.B. D. Grant Mobley, Secretary Fairview No. 92; W.B. John P. Ridenour, Secretary St. Helens Masonic No. 32; W.B. Steven E. Sutton, Worshipful Master Pacific No. 50 each won either an Oregon Freemasonry flag or an Amazon giftcard.
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65-Year Jewel Presented by the Grand Master
The Grand Master had the distinct honor of presenting a 65-year jewel to W.B. Henry J. Jaeger at his home, accompanied by his nephew, Bro. Christopher E. Huffman. W.B. Jaeger, a dedicated member of Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 95 in Condon, Ore., was raised in that very lodge.
Pictured: Bro. Christopher E. Huffman, W.B. Henery J. Jaeger, and M.W.B. Timothy J. Best.
50-Year Jewel Presented at Jennings McCall Center
On Saturday, Feb. 8, R.W.B. Richard A. "Rick" Fieldhouse, District Deputy of District No. 2 presented W.B. Paul E. Larson his 50-year award as a courtesy for his Brothers at St. Johns Lodge. W.B. Paul is a resident at Jennings McCall.
Pictured: R.W.B. Richard A. "Rick" Fieldhouse, W.B. Paul E. Larson, Sandy Larson-Rhodes, Aude Rhodes, Bro. Roy B. Epperson, and W.B. Shaun E. Weaver.
McEwen Lodge No. 125 Installation
The Immediate Past Grand Master, Grand Master, and Deputy Grand Master attended the McEwen Lodge No. 125 installation in December 2024.
Pictured: W.B. Myron E. Miles, R.W.B. Marc L. Strong, M.W.B. Timothy J. Best, M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp, I.P.G.M., and W.B. Gregg S. Miles.
Marys River Lodge No. 221 Presents Annual Scholarship
Katherine Moran, Past Worthy Advisor of St. Mary's Assembly No. 16 IORG and current Grand Hope of Oregon Rainbow was selected as one of the 2025 Marys River Lodge No. 221 scholarship recipients. Katherine is a freshman at Linn-Benton Community College majoring in Biological Sciences. Katherine is pictured with Rainbow Dad W.B. Howard S. Friedman Scholarship recipients receive $1,000 per term for up to four years while completing their college education.
Official Visit to St. Johns Lodge No. 17
M.W.B. Timothy J. Best made his official visit to St. Johns Lodge No. 17 in Albany on Jan. 21 where he awarded a Basic Proficiency card to W.B. William J. "Bill" Dobrinin. W.B. Merle A. "Alan" Jackson gave a handmade gavel to the Grand Master.
Hiram Award
Presented in Bend
W.B. Carl D. Thompson presented W.B. Matthew A. Alexander with the Hiram Award. Behind W.B. Alexander are past Hiram Award recipients W.B. Terry L. Griffith, W.B. W. Lee Ransdall, and W.B. John F. Pinckney. This award can only be received one time and is awarded to someone who has shown dedicated service to Freemasonry. Congratulations Matt from everyone at Bend Lodge!
e Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon
2150 Masonic Way
Forest Grove, OR 97116
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