OMN - 2026 June

OMN

OREGON MASONIC NEWS

JUNE 2026

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R H E R I TA G E

175

YEARS OF BROTHERHOOD

+ PLUS MasonicAid Ambassadors

OREGON MASONIC NEWS JUNE 2026 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Grand Secretary, James L. Morgan, P.G.M. EDITOR Holly Darling OMN@oregonfreemasonry.com CONTRIBUTORS Marc L. Strong Eric M. Young Daniel D. Bush Alexander Ben-Israel Lanni Strong Marissa Douglas TO CHANGE DELIVERY OPTIONS Login to or.grandview.systems to edit your communication preferences CONTACT US info@oregonfreemasonry.com 503.357.3158 www.oregonfreemasonry.com

Rights are reserved to edit all submitted material, and views expressed in articles may not necessarily be the official position of the Grand Lodge nor an endorsement thereof.

Proprietary rights to all articles published in the Oregon Masonic News are the sole property of the author and cannot be reproduced without express permission of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. of Oregon.

4 Celebrating Our Heritage: 175 Years of Brotherhood

6 What George Washington Would Do About Freemasonry in Today’s World

9 Strengthening Our Lodges for the Future

CONTENTS 1 2 4 6 9 10 12 14

Grand Master’s Message Oregon Freemasons Journey to Washington, D.C. Celebrating our Heritage: 175 Years of Brotherhood What George Washington Would Do About Freemasonry in Today’s World Strengthening Our Lodges for the Future A Personal Reflection After One Year as an Ambassador News and Announcements OMCF Golf Tournament SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEW THE GRAND MASTER’S CALENDAR

GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE

Moving Forward

A

A M e a n i n g f u l Ye a r f o r t h e M a s o n i c F a m i l y

s we begin a new Grand Lodge year and welcome a new Grand Master, it is fitting to reflect on the strength, fellowship, and service that defines the Oregon Masonic Family. The Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Oregon, together with our Appendant and Concordant bodies, form a vibrant network dedicated to brotherhood, charity, education, and community service.

Across Oregon, Masons give countless hours in support of scholarships, youth programs, local communities, medical research, veterans, shelters, and those in need. Through these efforts, we continue to demonstrate the compassion and commitment that unite us.

Education and personal growth remain central to our traditions. Through leadership training, mentorship, and the preservation of our rituals and history, we strengthen both our members and our future generations. Organizations such as DeMolay, Job’s Daughters, and Rainbow for Girls help instill the values of service, integrity, and fellowship in tomorrow’s leaders.

The continued growth of the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Shrine, Eastern Star, and other Masonic bodies enriches

our fraternity and expands our ability to serve. By working together, we deepen our bonds and multiply our impact.

It has been an honor to serve as Grand Master of Oregon.

I hope our shared efforts in service, learning, and fellowship have brought us closer together as one Oregon Masonic Family. As we enter this new chapter, I encourage each of you to continue sharing your passion for service and fraternity, carrying forward the legacy of unity, compassion, and leadership that defines us.

Lanni and I also want to thank you for the kindness, friendship, and support you have shown us throughout our years in the Grand Line. The journey has been made all the more meaningful because of the relationships we have built with all of you along the way.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Marc L. Strong Grand Master 2025-2026

I

want to express my heartfelt thanks to all the lodges and ladies who welcomed us so warmly. Your hospitality, kindness, generosity, and friendship made every visit special.

I truly enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people, participating in projects together, and sharing time in fellowship—whether at events, dinners, or simple visits along the way. The memories made across this beautiful state, and the friendships formed and renewed, will stay with me for years to come.

Thank you for your support, your warmth, and the wonderful meals and desserts! I look forward to seeing many of you again somewhere along the Masonic trail in the years ahead.

Love and hugs, Lanni Strong

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Oregon Freemasons Visit Washington, D.C. & Alexandria, Virginia Grand Master Leads Oregon Delegation in Fe l l o w s h i p , H i s t o r y, a n d Na t i o n a l E n g a g e m e n t

By M.W.B. Marc L. Strong, Grand Master

I

n April 2026, Grand Master Marc L. Strong led a delegation of 44 Oregon Freemasons, family members, and friends on a memorable journey to Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, Va. Centered on fellowship, patriotism, and Masonic heritage, the week included visits to many of the nation’s most historic landmarks and Masonic sites.

Highlights included tours of the House of the Temple, the George Washington National Masonic Memorial, Mount Vernon, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, Naval Lodge No. 4, Arlington National Cemetery, and Washington’s monuments, along with a Potomac River dinner cruise and fellowship gatherings throughout the week.

A centerpiece of the trip was the Oregon Occasional Grand Lodge held at the George Washington National Masonic Memorial in Alexandria. Open to the public, the event reflected Oregon Freemasonry’s commitment to fellowship, community engagement, and transparency. The gathering included tours, meals, and an evening view of the Capitol region from the Memorial’s observation platform.

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During the visit, the delegation also met with national leaders, Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, reinforcing Freemasonry’s longstanding connection to civic leadership and public service.

The group was honored to receive remarks and a tour of the House of the Temple from Ill. James D. Cole, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction. Travelers explored historically significant lodge rooms, memorial halls, and other architectural landmarks that reflect the enduring legacy of Freemasonry in America.

Organized with assistance from Star & Compass Travel, the itinerary blended history, fellowship, and shared experiences. From Mount Vernon and Gadsby’s Tavern to the House of the Temple and the George Washington National Masonic Memorial, the journey highlighted both the historical roots and continued strength of Oregon Freemasonry under the leadership of Grand Master Marc L. Strong and First Lady Lanni Strong.

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Celebrating Our

HERITAGE

There's something for everyone on the Masonic Campus

By Marissa Douglas, Marketing and Communications

O

n September 12, 2026, the Grand Lodge of Oregon is honored to welcome the entire Masonic Family to our historic Masonic campus in Forest Grove for a landmark celebration of fellowship and reflection.

This gathering is designed not only as a commemoration of 175 years of Oregon Freemasonry, but as a living experience of our shared history, values, and future.

The day begins with a special self-guided open house, inviting guests to explore the campus at their own pace.

Visitors will move through thoughtfully curated spaces that bring Oregon Masonic history to life, including exhibits, storytelling stations, and visual displays that highlight the impact of Freemasonry across our state. Throughout the day, guests will also have opportunities to hear from speakers who will share insights into local Masonic history, charity, and Brotherhood. From our earliest days in 1851, to our modern work in communities across the state, this experience is intended to inspire pride, reflection, and excitement for the future of Freemasonry in Oregon.

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This open house is intended for the Masonic Family and offers a rare opportunity to walk the grounds together, reconnect, and see firsthand the story we are still writing.

As the sun sets, we invite guests to transition from reflection to celebration at a gala, a ticketed outdoor event held on the lawn of the original Masonic & Eastern Star Home. This elegant outdoor gathering will be a night to remember—an evening of delicious food and libations, fellowship, entertainment, and shared pride in the journey of Oregon Freemasonry. Set against the beauty and history of the campus, the gala will serve as the signature celebration of this milestone anniversary year.

Tickets for the gala are limited and we encourage early purchase to ensure participation in this landmark evening, as this signature event will serve as the centerpiece of our 175th anniversary observance.

Together, the open house and gala form a full-day experience centered on history, fellowship, and celebration.

We invite the Masonic Family to join us on September 12, 2026, for an unforgettable gathering on our historic campus.

Be a part of our history!

Join us on the steps of the original M.E.S.H. Home for a special photo opportunity!

Learn more on our website W W W.O R E G O N F R E E M A S O N RY.CO M/175

WHAT GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD DO ABOUT FREEMASONRY IN TODAY’S WORLD

By W.B. Daniel D. Bush, Grand Orator

I

magine, if you will, the Father of Our Country stepping into our modern world. George Washington, the general who led us to independence, the President who set the standard for leadership, and yes, a dedicated Freemason. What would this man of unyielding integrity and quiet strength say or do about the Fraternity he held dear in our fast-paced, divided, and often skeptical 21st century? Today, I want to explore that very question.

First, let us remember Brother Washington’s deep connection to Freemasonry. In 1752, at the age of 20, George Washington was initiated as an Entered Apprentice into Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 in Virginia. He was passed to Fellow Craft the following year 6 |

O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S

G R A N D O R AT O R ' S M E S S A G E and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on August Yet, the good work continues unabated. Masonic-affiliated 4, 1753. Throughout his life, even amidst the burdens of bodies like the Shriners operate a network of children’s war and presidency, he remained a member. Most famously, hospitals providing world-class, often free care for burns, on September 18, 1793, President Washington, wearing his orthopedic conditions, and more. Scottish Rite and other Masonic apron, laid the cornerstone of the United States bodies support learning centers, scholarships, and community Capitol Building with full Masonic ceremony alongside the programs. Locally, lodges fund disaster relief, educational Grand Lodge of Maryland. Even in death, Brothers from initiatives, and aid for the needy. In an age of loneliness and Alexandria Lodge No. 22 conducted Masonic funeral rites polarization, Freemasonry offers something rare: a space at Mount Vernon in 1799, a testament to his enduring bond where men of good character, believing in a Supreme Being, with the Fraternity. gather as equals to practice Washington did not keep brotherly love, relief, and truth. his affection for the Craft So, what would George private. In letters to various Washington do? I believe, Grand Lodges, he praised based on his life and writings, its principles repeatedly. He he would take several decisive wrote that Freemasonry “is actions. founded on the immutable First, he would publicly and laws of Truth and Justice and forcefully defend Freemasonry its grand object is to promote against baseless conspiracies, the happiness of the human just as he did in 1798. When race.” In another, he declared, Reverend G.W. Snyder sent “So far as I am acquainted with him John Robison’s book the principles and doctrines of Proofs of a Conspiracy, alleging Freemasonry, I conceive it to be Illuminati infiltration of founded in benevolence and to Masonic lodges, Washington be exercised only for the good replied thoughtfully. He of mankind.” He affirmed that stated clearly that he did “not a just application of Masonic believe that the Lodges of principles promotes “private Free Masons in this Country virtue and public prosperity,” had, as Societies, endeavored - W.B. George Washington and pledged his best endeavors to propagate the diabolical to advance the honor and tenets” of the Illuminati prosperity of the Craft. or Jacobinism. While These were not empty acknowledging that some words. Washington saw individuals or related groups in Freemasonry a school for moral character, a bond of might spread troubling ideas, he defended the institution brotherhood that transcended class and colony, and a force for itself. Today, facing viral misinformation on social media, charity and civic good—values essential to the young republic.

Washington would likely issue open letters, give addresses, or Now, consider Freemasonry in today’s world. Once support educational campaigns to separate fact from fiction. boasting over four million members in the United States He would remind Americans that American Freemasonry at its peak in the late 1950s, regular Masonic lodges now has always emphasized loyalty to God, country, and the number around one million or fewer. Membership has Constitution—not subversion. declined sharply as modern life—with its digital distractions, Second, Washington would lead by personal example demanding careers, and changing social habits—pulls men and call good men to join. The man who volunteered for in different directions. Furthermore, the Fraternity faces dangerous frontier missions and accepted command of a persistent misconceptions and conspiracy theories. Online ragtag army without pay knew the value of commitment. and in popular culture, Freemasons are still falsely portrayed He would visit lodges, participate in degree work where as shadowy puppet masters tied to the Illuminati or global appropriate, and mentor younger members. In our era of cabals, echoing the very fears Washington addressed in his declining civic organizations, he would urge fathers, sons, and own time. community leaders to seek the self-improvement Masonry

Freemasonry “is founded on the immutable laws of Truth and Justice and its grand object is to promote the happiness of the human race.”

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G R A N D O R AT O R ' S M E S S A G E offers. Not for social status alone, as it was in colonial times, but to cultivate the virtues of honesty, temperance, fortitude, prudence, and justice that a free republic demands.

Third, he would champion Freemasonry’s role in healing national divisions through its core tenets. Our nation is more polarized than perhaps at any time since the Civil War. Washington, who warned against the dangers of political factions in his Farewell Address, would see the lodge—as a place where men set aside partisanship, pray together, and work in harmony—as a powerful model. He would encourage Masons to expand their practice of relief, not just in hospitals but in addressing modern plagues like isolation among men, educational gaps, and community breakdown. He might advocate for more public outreach: open houses, lectures, and transparent explanations of Masonic principles to demystify the Craft while preserving the symbolic beauty of its private rituals.

Fourth, Washington would insist on unwavering patriotism and moral leadership. He took his Masonic obligations seriously but always placed duty to the nation first.

Today, he would remind Brothers that their first allegiance is to the republic and its laws. He would call on Masons to be exemplary citizens—voting, serving in public roles with integrity, and embodying the republican virtues he lived by.

In a time when trust in institutions is low, Masons could lead

by demonstrating charity without expectation of reward and brotherhood without regard to wealth or politics.

Finally, the pragmatic Washington would support thoughtful adaptation. While the timeless symbols and lessons remain, he might endorse modern communications— websites, podcasts, or community events—to attract worthy men from all backgrounds, ensuring the Fraternity evolves to meet new generations without compromising its essence.

In conclusion, if George Washington walked among us today, he would not abandon Freemasonry to its challenges.

He would embrace it as a vital institution for building better men and a better nation. He would defend its honor, promote its principles of truth and justice, and harness its power for the “happiness of the human race.” As he once wrote, it is the duty of every American to support the government of his choice and maintain the independence so dearly purchased.

My friends, we do not need Washington to return physically. His example and words live on. Whether Mason or not, let us take up the trowel and square in our own lives— spreading mortar of brotherly love and building with the plumb of integrity. In doing so, we honor not only our first President but the great experiment in liberty he helped create.

Thank you, and may the Grand Architect of the Universe bless our endeavors. So mote it be. God bless America.

A mural in Memorial Hall depicts George Washington in full Masonic regalia as he lays the cornerstone of the US Capitol. Mural by Allyn Cox, photo by Mount Vernon.

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LONG RANGE PLANNING

Strengthening Our Lodges for the Future R.W.B. Eric M. Young, Junior Grand Warden

T

he Long Range Planning Committee has developed a practical resource to help strengthen lodges across our jurisdiction and ensure a vibrant future for the Craft.

At the center of this effort is the Lodge Assessment and Business Plan, now available to all Master Masons through the resources tab in Grand View. This tool provides lodges with a clear, structured way to evaluate their current condition, recognize strengths, and identify opportunities for growth.

Designed as a living process, the assessment encourages lodges to revisit their progress regularly and adapt to the evolving needs of their members and communities.

The plan focuses on eight key areas essential to lodge health: membership, ritual proficiency, unity, long-term planning, leadership, financial stability, lodge operations, and member engagement. Using a standardized scorecard, lodges can measure performance, set priorities, and take deliberate steps toward improvement.

Beyond assessment, the plan offers practical guidance and best practices to support ritual excellence, leadership development, financial stewardship, and stronger member involvement. Emphasis is placed on communication, accountability, and shared expectations—cornerstones of every successful lodge.

This initiative is intended to benefit lodges of all sizes by strengthening culture, enhancing the Masonic experience, and reinforcing our role within our communities. Its success will depend on consistent and thoughtful use throughout the jurisdiction.

The Long Range Planning Committee extends its sincere gratitude to the Brothers whose dedication made this work possible. As chairman, I would like to pay wages for the two years of hard work and commitment of Brothers W.B. Earl Wilson, R.W.B. Blake Presswood, W.B. Dale Wiley, and W.B. Justin Fleming. These Brothers each put in countless hours of work on this project and their hard effort reflects in the final product. I also wish to thank W.B. Dale Palileo, whose foundational contributions were instrumental to this effort.

+ Find the LODGE ASSESSMENT AND BUSINESS PLAN in Grand View Resources

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A Personal Reflection After

One Year as an Ambassador R.W.B. Alexander Ben-Israel, District Deputy No. 16 & MasonicAid Ambassador

M

asonicAid plays a vital role in ensuring that assistance reaches our Brethren, their families, and our affi liated bodies when it is most needed. Being part of the MasonicAid Ambassadors has allowed me to see firsthand how meaningful this work truly is. The program serves lodges, Eastern Star chapters, and Brothers and Sisters throughout the jurisdiction by educating, communicating, and advocating so that the resources available through MasonicAid are better understood and more widely known.

As ambassadors, we have had the opportunity to make presentations to individual Masonic lodges, as well as to the Grand Chapter and the Rainbow Grand Assembly. During these visits, we explain what MasonicAid is, what types of assistance are available, and how members can request help or recommend someone in need. Education has been a central focus of our efforts, because understanding the process removes uncertainty and encourages members to reach out when help is needed.

Throughout the year, ambassadors have met monthly via Zoom. These meetings have been more than routine updates, they have been opportunities for honest conversation, shared experiences, and mutual support. Through these discussions,

we have addressed challenges, celebrated progress, and worked together to present a clear and consistent message across the jurisdiction.

As we approach the completion of our first year, I look back with gratitude and pride. The program has shown its value through increased awareness of MasonicAid and a growing understanding that ambassadors are available to every lodge and assembly in the jurisdiction. Most importantly, it reinforces the comforting reminder that no Brother or Sister stands alone when facing hardship.

On a personal level, serving as a MasonicAid Ambassador has been deeply rewarding. Being able to do my part— however small—in assisting where needed, truly reflects the Masonic principles of relief, Brotherly love, and service.

Looking ahead, our goals include increasing opportunities for presentations, providing updated and accurate informational materials, removing outdated resources from lodges, and developing a tool to gather feedback so we can measure our impact. These efforts will help strengthen outreach and ensure the ambassador program continues to grow and improve service.

MasonicAid

Wherever you are, we care.

Call us at (888) 811-3199 Learn more at MasonicAid.com

Ambassadors A mbas mb a sad a ad dors do MasonicAid Am To strengthen and preserve the fraternal obligation to provide Masonic relief, these Ambassadors are a point-of-contact for Lodges and Chapters, trained and ready to share information on MasonicAid or the Jennings McCall Retirement Community.

Who Are They?

Mary Drushella, P.G.M. Lanni Strong, P.G.M. Craig Sipp, P.G.M. David Fryday, P.G.M. Stephanie Beall, P.G.M. Alexander Ben-Israel Henry Heimuller Jessie Michaelson Steven Karpstein

mldrushella@gmail.com lanmarc99@hotmail.com csipp@oregonfreemasonry.com frydaydave@gmail.com natureswonders.2324@gmail.com abenisrael59@outlook.com henry@henryheimuller.com jessiemichaelson@gmail.com pkarpste@yahoo.com

How to Utilize a MasonicAid Ambassador Spread the Word: Schedule trainings to help Brothers and Sisters understand the support available through MasonicAid for them and their families.

Get Involved: Encourage your Lodge or Chapter to: Share information about available services.

Invite an Ambassador to speak at a sweetheart event, or similar.

Donate care packages for clients or residents.

Make financial contributions to support those in need.

Watch For Signs: Changes like unpaid dues, a member’s passing, or prolonged absence may signal a need for support. A simple check-in can connect families—especially widows or children—to care they may not realize is available.

Reach Out and Refer: If someone may need assistance, scan the QR codes below to submit an online referral or contact MasonicAid directly at (888) 811-3199.

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NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION AND FELLOWS OF THE CRAFT TRAINING

Saturday, June 27, 2026 @ 8 a.m.

Tigard-Orenomah Lodge No. 207 13680 SW Pacific Hwy, Tigard Instruction by Grand Lecturer Dale B. Palileo.

Open to Master Masons only.

Doors open at 8 a.m.

RSVP to TigardOrenomah207@gmail.com

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O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Heroes of '76 Gains Tw o N e w O r e g o n M e m b e r s

Lewis Jewel Presentation

At the May Stated Communication, Florence Lodge No. 107 and W.B. Ramsey presented Bro. Howard Q. Parker a Lewis Jewel. There are at least seven members of Florence Lodge No. 107 that have Lewis Jewels.

At the April 2026 Bivouac hosted by Light Horse Harry Lee Camp, Brothers Robert Baugh and Rick Hammel of Willamette Valley No. 529, Adair Camp, Ore., and Omar Lorenzo of Washington No. 3, George Washington Camp, Wash., were welcomed as new Heroes of ’76. The Heroes of ’76 is an invitational auxiliary organization of theNational Sojourners, an American fraternal society for Freemasons who have served or are serving in the uniformed services.

The courtesy degree was specially arranged through the National Commander and staff following outreach to Sojourners camps in Maryland and Virginia during a planned Washington, D.C. trip. Eleven camp members participated in the ceremony, including six Heroes in full colonial dress, two in hunting frocks, and three in tricorns.

Adair Camp will present the colors at this year’s Annual Communication in full colonial uniforms.

P a c i f i c L o d g e N o . 5 0 We l c o m e s Visiting Brother from S.C.

Pacific Lodge No. 50 welcomed Worshipful Master Joey C. Pyler of Jackson Lodge No. 53 from South Carolina during their February Stated Meeting. He was presented with a Pirate Republic 1718 “We Live By the Code” coin as a token of our shared values and Brotherhood. In return, during Good of the Order, he presented Worshipful Master Daniel De La Rosa with a Grand Master's coin from M.W.B Thomas E. Watson, who was Grand Master of South Carolina in 2025.

His visit was a simple but meaningful reminder of what Freemasonry represents. As we continue our work this year, we remain guided by the light that charts our course, and strengthened by the Brotherhood that makes the journey worthwhile.

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