OMN
A Caring HAND AT EVERY TURN
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
FEBRUARY 2026
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Grand Secretary, James L. Morgan, P.G.M.
EDITOR
Holly Darling OMN@oregonfreemasonry.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Marc L. Strong
Hunter T. Bronson
Zachary A. Keirsey
Robert W. Baugh, Jr.
William T. "Billy" Burns
Marissa Douglas
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Reflect & Prepare
Looking Back with Pride, Looking Ahead with Purpose
As February begins, we fi nd ourselves about 120 days from Grand Lodge in Salem. Th is point in the Masonic year offers a natural pause—an opportunity to reflect, to celebrate, and to look ahead. Whether you recently completed your term as Worshipful Master or are stepping into the East anew, this season invites thoughtful consideration of the work accomplished and the work yet to come.
For outgoing Worshipful Masters, now is the time to take pride in what has been built. Every Lodge year brings challenges, but it also brings moments of growth, connection, and accomplishment. The goals you set, the projects you guided, the Brothers you mentored, and the resilience you showed in the face of setbacks all form part of your legacy. Just as important is the personal growth that occurs quietly along the way—lessons learned, confidence gained, and perspective sharpened through service.
For new and continuing Worshipful Masters, this is a time of anticipation. The East offers both responsibility and opportunity. Each Lodge has its own character and needs, and every year brings fresh chances to strengthen fellowship, deepen education, and engage with the community. Thoughtful planning now can help ensure that your term is purposeful, balanced, and rewarding for both you and your Brethren.
As we move toward Grand Lodge, let us remember that leadership in Masonry is not measured solely by programs completed or meetings held, but by the care we show for one another and the example we set. To support this time of reflection and renewal, an accompanying article on page 9 provides questions and practical insights designed to help Worshipful Masters reflect and begin the next chapter with confidence. May the months ahead be marked by reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to sharing our passion with our Masonic family and the communities we serve.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Marc L. Strong Grand Master 2025-2026
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEW THE GRAND MASTER’S CALENDAR
THE BENEFITS OF VISITING OTHER JURISDICTIONS
By R.W.B. Zachary A. Keirsey, District Deputy of District 3
One of the great privileges of Freemasonry is that our Brotherhood does not end at the doors of our home Lodge, nor at the borders of our district or state. While it is easy to remain comfortable attending only the Lodge where we were raised, some of the most meaningful Masonic experiences come from stepping beyond familiar ground and visiting other jurisdictions.
I have personally had the privilege of visiting several Lodges in different jurisdictions over the years, from those as close as Washington to those as far away as Virginia. Although my Masonic travels have remained within the United States, they have been anything
...the world beyond our own jurisdiction can be so different in form, yet so remarkably similar in spirit...
but uniform. Each visit has offered something distinct, sometimes subtle and sometimes striking, yet always instructive. When traveling to other jurisdictions, we are given a unique opportunity to view both the world and Freemasonry through a different lens. The words of the ritual may change. The culture, customs, and traditions may feel unfamiliar, or even overwhelming at first. Yet despite those differences, the message remains the same. The lessons we are taught and the experiences we share transcend jurisdictional boundaries. It is much like hearing a familiar story told in another language and suddenly realizing you
Left: Grand Lodge of Indiana; Right: Imperial Captain of the Guard Dale Vrsalovich and
R.W.B. Zachary A. Keirsey
understand it. Or hearing a cover of a song you have listened to a thousand times and discovering a new appreciation for it. There is something peculiar and deeply comforting in recognizing that the world beyond our own jurisdiction can be so different in form, yet so remarkably similar in spirit to the place we call home.
The greatest benefit of traveling, however, lies in what makes Freemasonry exceptional to begin with: the people. Few institutions offer the opportunity to form immediate, genuine, and lasting connections with men who were, only moments before, complete strangers. Within our Fraternity, those strangers become Brothers almost instantly. In my experience, many of these connections have endured long after the visit itself, growing into friendships that span years and geography.
Travel is often cited as a benefit to newly made Master Masons, but it is easy for more seasoned Brethren to take this privilege for granted. Traveling establishes real and meaningful connections among men who might otherwise remain at a perpetual distance from one another. In many ways, this ability to unite men across geography, culture, and custom is not merely a benefit of Freemasonry—it is one of the great purposes of our Fraternity.
You might ask, what do I need in order to travel? A current dues card is an excellent place to start, and Brethren should ensure it is readily available. A digital version can be accessed through Grand View, and the Amity app is a valuable resource for locating Lodges in the area you are traveling and determining when they meet. While traveling papers issued by the Grand Lodge remain the exemplary method of proving membership, it is also wise to prepare beyond documentation alone. Brethren are encouraged to refresh their knowledge of the modes of recognition before traveling, as some jurisdictions may examine a visiting Brother upon arrival.
When approached with preparation and intention, traveling becomes far more than simply attending Lodge in a different place. It becomes an extension of our Masonic labor. It strengthens the bonds of Brotherhood, broadens our understanding of the Craft, and reminds us that while our jurisdictions may differ in practice, we are united in purpose. In traveling well, we honor both the Fraternity we represent and the one we are privileged to join wherever our journey may take us.
Don’t Forget Your Masonic Passport
Masonic Passports are a great way to celebrate your journey through the Craft. Each Lodge you visit can stamp your passport with their Lodge seal—creating a personal record of Brotherhood and Masonic fellowship. If you don’t have a passport yet, get yours now on Amazon and start collecting your Masonic memories.
Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis)
A Caring HAND AT EVERY TURN
SMALL GESTURES, PROFOUND CARE
By Marissa Douglas, Marketing Director
Care takes many forms, and sometimes, it begins with something as simple as a warm welcome.
At the Masonic home, The Jennings McCall Center in Forest Grove, that welcome is extended to Masonic-affi liated residents by MasonicAid staff through a simple yet thoughtful gesture: a basket fi lled with cozy comforts, puzzle books, helpful program information, and a personalized greeting that quietly says, you belong here— and we’re here for you. These welcome baskets offer an early expression of the compassion that defi nes MasonicAid’s work.
Th is small but meaningful touchpoint captures the heart of MasonicAid. At its core, the program is about people caring for people—dedicated caseworkers who serve members of the Oregon Masonic family with attentiveness, empathy, and dignity. For those moving into the Masonic home, the welcome basket is often one of the fi rst connections they make, setting the tone for a relationship grounded in trust, understanding, and care.
Yet the reach of MasonicAid extends far beyond the residents of the Jennings McCall Center. Th roughout the year, caseworkers remain closely connected with clients of varying ages across Oregon—and even beyond state lines— through regular check-ins, coordinated resources, and site visits when needed. These ongoing relationships ensure that members of the Masonic family feel supported not only in moments of crisis, but through life’s many transitions.
The true impact of this work is best seen in the lives it touches. MasonicAid has helped a young family manage unexpected medical expenses for their toddler, transforming fear and uncertainty into relief and reassurance. It has supported a widowed spouse in securing in-home care, allowing her to remain safely in the home she cherishes. In another instance, caseworkers guided a Mason through the challenging transition from independent living at home to a retirement community, easing anxieties and helping him feel secure as he received the care he needed.
These stories reflect the quiet, faithful service that defi nes MasonicAid. While the work is often unseen, its impact is
profound—meeting real needs with compassion and respect, one person at a time. From welcome to well-being, wherever you are, we care.
For anyone wondering how MasonicAid might one day touch their own life—or the life of someone they love—the fi rst step is visiting www.MasonicAid.com to explore available resources and discover how this remarkable program stands ready to serve the Oregon Masonic family.
The Giving Tree is another way MasonicAid helps support the Masonic Family.
Th is year, MasonicAid clients were met with an incredible outpouring of kindness and generosity from the Masonic and Eastern Star family. Th rough your thoughtful donations, every participating client received a gift , bringing comfort, joy, and a reminder that they are supported by a caring community.
Your charitable contributions and continued support make the Giving Tree Program possible and have a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. On behalf of the entire MasonicAid team, thank you for helping make this season brighter for our clients.
- Danielle Christopherson, MasonicAid Director
- Masonic Widow
Charity in Masonry
One Lodge's Charitable Plan
By W.B. Hunter T. Bronson
As Masons, we are taught from the very beginning that charity is central to the Craft . In the Entered Apprentice Degree, we learn that Charity is the greatest tenet of Freemasonry. While our ritual emphasizes the importance of charity, it offers little guidance on how to practice it. Here are some ways Friendship Masonic Lodge No. 160 approaches charitable work.
Charity is deeply embedded in the culture of Friendship Lodge. Each year, as we develop our annual budget, there is a deliberate effort to ensure that charitable giving is prioritized. We typically allocate at least 10% of our budget to charitable causes and divide that funding into four categories: assistance for Masons and their families, support for Grand Lodge charities (such as sponsoring the OMCF Golf Tournament), community appeals, and other charitable initiatives.
To manage this effort, we maintain a charity committee that actively and reactively researches opportunities for giving and presents recommendations to the Lodge for a vote at each stated meeting. For the 2026 Masonic year, we have budgeted a total of $12,500 across these categories. Because we strive to be a pillar in our local community, the largest share of our charitable funds is typically directed toward community appeals, allowing us to support a wide range of local organizations throughout the year.
We also remain flexible, recognizing that needs change over time. For example, in 2025 we made significant contributions
to the Oregon Food Bank in response to ongoing SNAP funding challenges. If charitable funds remain unspent at the end of the year, our practice is to donate the remainder to the 1851 Society, where it can continue to benefit others.
Beyond fi nancial contributions, Friendship Lodge is committed to hands-on service within our community. At least twice a year, we participate in headstone cleaning days at a local cemetery in Southeast Portland. Many Masons are buried there, making this both an act of community service and a way to honor our departed Brethren. We have also volunteered with the Community Energy Project, assisting low-income residents with tasks such as gutter cleaning, rehanging fi xtures, and other household projects they may be unable to complete on their own.
Additionally, Friendship Lodge has a long tradition of assembling care kits for houseless individuals. These kits, distributed through Blanchet House, include cold-weather supplies and essential items to help meet basic needs.
These examples reflect just one Lodge’s approach to charity. What better way to “Share the Passion” than by actively serving our communities? We commend all Lodges and Brethren who give generously of their time or resources. If you or your Lodge would like to learn more or have a deeper conversation about charitable work, please feel free to reach out to me at hunterbronson3@yahoo.com.
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. We invite you to support the OREGON MASONIC CHARITABLE FOUNDATION and the HOME ENDOWMENT FUND 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.
“...our
practice is to donate the remainder [of our charitable funds] to the 1851 Society, where it can continue to benefit others.”
W.B. Hunter T. Bronson on behalf of Friendship Masonic Lodge No. 160
OREGON MASONIC CHARITIES
Oregon Masonic 93-1264938
Charitable Foundation
Home Endowment 93-0391591
Please designate gifts to the Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation and/or the Home Endowment Fund when making your doantion.
2026 Oregon DeMolay Hall of Fame inductees
Oregon DeMolay is proud to announce that M.W.B. Joseph W. Jarvis, P.G.M., has been selected for induction into the Fourth Annual Oregon DeMolay Hall of Fame, to be held on April 11, 2026, at the Al Kader Center in Wilsonville, Ore.
Established in 2023 during the Centennial Celebration of Oregon DeMolay, the Hall of Fame recognizes Senior DeMolays from Oregon whose lives reflect excellence, leadership, and lasting service to others. Th is year’s inductees, selected by their peers, are:
• M.W.B. Joseph W. Jarvis, P.G.M. – Omaha Chapter
• e Honorable John P. Ley – Friendship Chapter
• Ill. Sir Ronald L. Gamble – Monterey Park Chapter
They join an esteemed group that includes public servants, innovators, and distinguished Masonic leaders who have made meaningful contributions to their communities and the Craft.
The evening will feature Northwest cuisine, fellowship, and tributes honoring these three Brethren. Special guests will include Most Worshipful Grand Master Marc L. Strong, DeMolay International Grand Junior Councilor Brad J. Northcutt, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, and musical guest Myrna Setiawan.
To secure your tickets and celebrate these esteemed Brethren, please visit www.ordemolay.org. Tickets includes dinner, with formal or dark business attire recommended. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend this celebration of lifetime achievement and service.
For further information please contact Brother William K. Clark at (503) 809-9335.
Masons Who Served
By W.B. Robert W. Baugh, Jr.
Brother Masons, our Fraternity includes a special organization for military veterans to gather in fellowship, support one another, and continue serving our country and the Craft . That organization is National Sojourners, a Masonic brotherhood for those who have served or are serving in the United States armed forces.
Within the Grand Jurisdiction of Oregon, there are three active National Sojourners chapters welcoming participation:
• Portland Chapter No. 75 (Portland)
– 75@nationalsojourners.org
• Willamette Valley Chapter No. 529 (Salem)
– 529@nationalsojourners.org
• Rogue Valley Chapter No. 538 (Medford)
– 538@nationalsojourners.org
National Sojourners has a proud history spanning more than a century. Founded in the early 1900s by military Masons seeking fellowship while displaced by service, the organization formally evolved from the “Sojourners Club” into National Sojourners, Incorporated. Membership has expanded over the years to include all branches of service, most recently the U.S. Space Force.
Today, National Sojourners focuses on Americanism and Masonic engagement. Patriotic programs include flag ceremonies, educational presentations, and youthfocused activities that promote love of country and national service. Th rough the Bridge of Light Program, Sojourners actively support Blue Lodges and participate fully in Masonic life.
The Oregon chapters invite all eligible Brothers to learn more, get involved, and help celebrate the good work being done. Th is article is a fi rst step in sharing that story. If you are interested in membership or participation, please contact one of the chapters listed above.
Leadership Reflection and Action Guide
By M.W.B. Marc L. Strong, Grand Master
As we prepare for Grand Lodge, both recently outgoing and incoming Worshipful Masters may benefit from structured reflection and planning. The following questions and reminders are offered to support that work.
FOR OUTGOING WORSHIPFUL MASTERS: REFLECT ON YOUR TERM
1. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
2. Which goals did you achieve, and which remain works in progress?
3. What projects or initiatives had the greatest impact on your Lodge or community?
4. How did you support the growth and development of your members?
5. What innovations or strategies led to positive outcomes?
6. What lessons came from setbacks or failures?
7. What feedback did you receive about your leadership?
8. How did you grow personally and professionally?
9. What moments from your term stand out most?
10. What advice would you offer your successor?
FOR NEW OR CONTINUING WORSHIPFUL MASTERS: PLAN AHEAD
1. What challenges lie ahead, and what strategies will you use to address them?
2. What goals have you set for your Lodge this year?
3. Which projects or initiatives could make a meaningful impact?
4. How will you encourage member growth and engagement?
5. Are there new approaches you want to explore?
6. How would you like your Lodge to grow during your term?
REMINDERS, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR EDUCATION
1. What is considered a business meeting and needs to conform to the quorum requirements for Lodges? These meetings all need quorums and require opening Lodge. Stated meetings, Degrees, hearing proficiencies, to name a few. See Code Sec. 207. Quorum in a Lodge, and Sec. 213. Lodges — Powers, Duties and Limitations, subsections 1a and 3 in particular, for more details.
2. When can Installations of Lodge members be held?
Public and private installations differ. See Code Sec. 209. Installation, subsection 9. A Lodge does not open on any degree for public installations. See the Standard Manual for instructions and setup. It is also permissible to have an open installation on Sunday. Several Lodges have long-standing traditional open installations on Sundays. Our Jurisprudence committee, all Past Grand Masters, unanimously agreed, that it is permissible to have an open installation on Sunday. The Lodge is convened for Installation but not opened for Work, and proper documentation in the minutes is essential. See Sec. 213. Lodges — Powers, Duties and Limitations, subsection 7.
3. What are the options for absent officers at Installation? Guidance for replacing absent officers is found in Sec. 209, subsection 7 and 8.
4. When is the optional Closing Charge given?
Adopted June 3, 2016, it should be delivered as prescribed in the Ritual. Extensions beyond ritual boundaries may warrant review.
May this guidance assist you in finishing strong, planning wisely, and continuing to share your passion with Oregon’s Masonic family throughout the year.
FELLOWSHIP & COMMUNITY
By R.W.B. William T. "Billy" Burns, District Deputy No. 6
When I was asked to be the District Deputy for District No. 6, I was absolutely surprised and taken aback. I had so many questions. I would be stepping into this role right in the middle of the year, and I knew it would require more of my time. I asked for a few days to consider the opportunity so I could speak with my family, as well as consult my Coach and several Brothers to hear their thoughts and insights.
After accepting the opportunity to serve District No. 6, which includes four Masonic Lodges: TigardOrenomah No. 207, Beaverton Masonic Lodge No. 100, Oregon Military No. 223, and SherwoodMidday No. 164, I quickly found myself racing to meet the Lodges and introduce myself. From that initial phone call three years ago to now, meaningful relationships have been built through time spent in Lodge at Stated Meetings and at other gatherings such as barbecues, game and movie nights, and even parades.
Being present has allowed me to see each Lodge as its own unique body, made up of diverse Brothers. Encouraging communication between the Lodges so they are aware of one another’s events and can offer mutual support has proven to be incredibly beneficial for District No. 6. While I serve as the eyes and ears for Grand Lodge, I am also the eyes and ears for each individual Lodge. Th is position allows me to share what each Lodge is doing and to help foster greater camaraderie throughout the district.
Serving as District Deputy for District No. 6 has been an incredible
chapter in my Masonic journey. During this time, there have been many opportunities to work together implementing communications from Grand Lodge. Being present at the Lodges beyond Stated Meetings and spending time with the Brothers has created more open and meaningful conversations around these implementations.
Working with multiple Lodges has expanded my vision of what a Lodge can be. By listening with an attentive ear—not only during meetings, but also during dinner and refreshment, I have been able to build fellowship across the district. Th is makes it easier to come together when there is a need, whether for a degree or simply to support an event.
Being a regular presence at the Lodges has also made my Official Visits more effective and has helped convey what is being asked from Grand Lodge. One of my recent Masonic moments occurred during an Official Visit to Beaverton Masonic Lodge No. 100. It wasn’t until we went upstairs for the Stated Meeting that I noticed something unexpected: a lack of dress shoes. Every Officer was wearing
athletic shoes—just like I do, even with my suit or tuxedo. It was a small but meaningful gesture, and a reminder that the work I do is noticed and appreciated.
Having the experience of serving as District Deputy alongside the Brothers of District No. 6, I have witnessed meaningful growth—an increase in degrees, Lodges coming together to complete remodels, and much-needed maintenance work being accomplished. I have also seen growth between each Lodge and their surrounding communities. Becoming better known within these Masonic communities has made it easier to invest the time and presence this role requires. Th is journey has been a reminder that each of us already possesses the tools needed to step forward and simply do the work.
“DO YOU HAVE A MASONIC MOMENT?”
- R.W.B. William T. "Billy" Burns, District Deputy No. 6
Two Brothers Honored with Longevity Awards in Bend
On Nov. 12, 2025 at the Touchmark Senior Living facility in Bend, Ore., members of Bend Masonic Lodge No. 139 presented Brother Robert "Bud" J. Fincham with his 65-year certificate and jewel, and Brother Fred M. Newton with his 60-year certificate and jewel. The Brothers’ families were able to be there and observe this momentous occasion.
Picture: W.B. Brian T. Canady, W.B. William L. “Lee” Ransdall, W.B. John Pinckney, R.W.B. Steven D. Karpstein, Brother Robert “Bud” J. Fincham, Brother Fred M. Newton, W.B. Dale D. Wiley, Brother Gregory N. Isaacson, W.B. Carl D. Thompson, Brother Terry L. Griffith.
Warren Lodge Makes Donation to Jacksonville PD
On Dec. 2, 2025, Warren Lodge No. 10 attended the swearing in of new Jacksonville police chief Matt Hannum, and made a donation enabling the purchase of two SUVs for the department. The vehicles were immediately placed into service, and at the Jacksonville Christmas parade.
Pictured above W.B. Alexander E. BenIsrael, Chief Hannum, M.W.B. Arthur L. Borland, P.G.M.
LOUIE SANSING TURNS 100
!
SATURDAY, FEB. 21 2:00 - 4:00 P.M.
SALEM SCOTTISH RITE CENTER 4090 COMMERCIAL ST. SE
SALEM, OR 97302
Come share a time of cake, stories, and fellowship with this centenarian and 78-year Oregon Freemason!
Grand View Webinar
Join Tiffany Bell for a quarterly Grand View webinar on March 12 at 1pm. Passcode: 97116
What's unique or historical about your Lodge? We want your Lodge stories for the 175th celebration in Sept. 2026. Contact Marissa Douglas, mdouglas@oregonfreemasonry.com
e Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon
2150 Masonic Way
Forest Grove, OR 97116
Change service requested
In September 2026, the Grand Lodge of Oregon marks its 175th anniversary—a milestone worth celebrating across the state.
Contact Marketing Director Marissa Douglas at mdouglas@oregonfreemasonry.com. Stay tuned for more information! of
Along in Forest on events . Big or small, public or private, each fellowship,
Along with the official event in Forest Grove on September 12, 2026, Lodges are encouraged to host district events between August–October. Big or small, public or private, each event is a chance to honor our history, strengthen fellowship, and showcase Freemasonry’s impact in Oregon communities.
Planning an event?
Up to $1,000 Reimbursement for Eligible Costs Promotional Signage & Commemorative Materials Press Release Template & Digital Graphics Let’s make the 175th anniversary unforgettable—together!
