March 2022 Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Trestleboard

March 2022

The Lodge is helping out local Non-profit Say Yes to Prom by helping with them with their storage needs! Dresses take up a lot of space!

Say Yes to Prom is an annual event created to help students in Pinal County. The mission is to make sure any eligible student wanting to attend prom is able too. The cost of prom can be very expensive, we provide free formals to any student in need.

Those that attend our event will possibly leave with a complete outfit including; dress, shoes, purse, and jewelry. With the help of our community and sponsors we are going into our 7th year. We do have limited selection for boys as well.

Brethren!!! This year is off to a great start and I have all of you to thank for it. We are now having dinner and fellowship before meetings at the lodge and more brothers are showing up to lodge for this.

Our budget is staying inline, so far, and we are gearing up for the Lost Dutchman Outdoor Degree on March 5th. Not only that, but we have many new inquiries regarding becoming a Mason as well. This year is looking hopeful for the craft here at Gila Valley Lodge #9.

can parallel park. The test facilitator told me that too many people were failing the driving test because they could not parallel park, so that portion was removed. Now all they have to do is a 3 point U-turn. This is not a good change and just shows that if it is too hard we will make it easier so everyone can pass. This also makes us a weak society.

These same principles, I believe, will make Masonry less of what it is if we allow changes such as these to take place in our craft. We are here to make good men better. There were standards placed for a reason. And some of them have gotten easier, but how easy do we make them? Do we make them so easy that one does not have to work for it? Or do we keep them and make people earn the things they want in life? If a man has to actually work hard at something to achieve his goal, that goal once achieved will have more meaning to him.

On another note, I recently read a Short Talk Bulletin called “Master’s Piece”. In this bulletin the author talks about how Operative Masons were chosen to be an Apprentice, and then a Master and Fellow. First he had to prove himself worthy of being a Mason, then he had to bind himself to the craft serving without question to the rules for seven years. If he was not worthy or incompetent he was sent away. Seems a bit harsh, right? Well, not for I believe that we are at a good place in Masonry and the times. Things in the world seem to have given need to keep making good men better. way to the easy way out, if you will. Many things including Masonry has changed due to the times.

But some of these changes I fear are not good for us as a whole.

One such change I witnessed was a few years back when my son was learning to drive. He took the test and received his permit with ease. When it came time to get his license I was absolutely baffled at what I was told when I asked why he does not have to prove that he

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We need to focus on quality of men, not quantity of men. Sure, having a lodge with thousands of members would be an awesome site, as it was in the past, but we need to find those good men that want to be a Mason for the right reasons and are willing to work for it. Otherwise, how are we to keep the craft alive and kicking, and “secret”..haha.

I have been asked many times in my Masonic career “Why make it so hard” for men to advance, or for men to sit in a chair. I have given my answer to these questions many times and yet I always end up saying the same thing. The way my grandfather learned was even harder, or How badly do you

want it.

With all that being said, we are on a great path this year due to all the brethren putting in the hard work needed to keep our lodge going, moving forward, and growing. Thank you again all of you for your efforts thus far. Happy St. Patrick’s Day Fraternally,

Eric Smith 2022 Master Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

CALIENTE COFFEE CLUB SINCE 1985 First and third Tuesday at 9:00 aM Caliente Club House, Florence Arizona

MASONIC CONVERSATION, FELLOWSHIP, and EDUCATION For Information call Dewey Jefferson at 520-576-2329

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an article by VW Bro. Barry D. lows Antient York/pre-1813/ Thom, Webb Form Ritual, who the PaLodge McLeod # 27, GL of NL tron Saints of Masonry are, I am sure that they would unanimously Quatuor Coronati is the say, the Holy Saints John. But world’s premier research lodge. they were not the original Patron Established in 1884, the lodge’s Sa founders wished to advance an evidence-based approach to the It is interesting to note the instudy of Masonic history and re- creased importance of the two search into the origins of Freema- Saints John in eighteenth-century sonry. Their approach was intend- Freemasonry. The motto on the first seal of the Premier Grand ed to replace the Lodge was in Greek letters. The more imaginative writings of earlifollowing is using the Roer authors and was referred to as man alphabet substitutes. 'En the ‘authentic school’ of Masonic arche en ho logos' which translates research. as ‘In the beginning was the Before we go any further if I Word’. These are the opening asked Brethren whose ritual fol-

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words of St John’s Gospel in the original Greek. Installation meetings during the eighteenth century were held on the patronal festivals of the two saints, 24 June and 27 December, and they were referred to as ‘the two great parallels’ of Masonry.

the oldest Masonic document, the Regius Manuscript of circa 1390.

The Legend of the Quatuor Coronati In 298 A.D. the Roman Em-

Surprisingly, neither appears in any of the Old Charges, like so many other things that are familiar in Freemasonry, it was an eighteenthcentury development, possibly originating with Bros. Desaguliers, and Anderson? Remember that they were both ministers of the church. The former Anglican and the latter Presbyterian. Up until that time, the Patron Saints of the Freemasons were the Four Crowned Martyrs after whom Quatuor Coronati Lodge is named. They are referred to in

peror, Diocletian was building his baths around the Quirinal and Virminal hills. He included within its vast circuit a temple to Asclepius, the god of health. He ordered the five sculptors, Claudius, Nicostratus, Sinforianus, Castorinus, and Simplicius, to execute the 5

decorative work and make the statue of Asclepius. Being Christians they refused to fashion the statue of a pagan god, and in consequence, they were put to death.

Three were beheaded and two were scourged to death. Other artists were found who executed the work for the Emperor.

On the return of Diocletian to Rome in 300 A.D., finding the works completed, he issued an order for their dedication and commanded that all the soldiers in Rome should be present, who as they marched past, were to throw incense over the altar of Asclepius. As soon as this command was propagated, four brothers, who were stonemasons, and held officer positions in the Roman militia, met to decide what they

should do under the circumstances.

These brothers were named Severus, Severianus, Carporferus, and Victorianus, who, besides being masons, had embraced the Christian faith. They all agreed to abstain from throwing the incense over the alter, it being against their principles to assist in any way at pagan ceremonies of a religious nature. This determination they made known to their Centurion, who communicated it to the tribune, Lampadius, who reported the matter to Diocletian.

The Emperor ordered them either to sacrifice or suffer death.

They, steadfast to their faith, suffered death by being scourged with leaden thongs. Their bodies were then enclosed in leaden

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cases and thrown into the river Tiber. A brother, Nicodemus, recovered their bodies from the river, and they were interred by the side of the five sculptors previously martyred and laid to rest in the Catacombs of the Quattro Coronati. (Four crowned ones) Summation: The Patrons of Operative masons are:

The Holy Saints Johns' were reSeverus, Severianus, Carporferus, placed by Moses and Solomon. and Victorianus Thought of the Day The Patrons of Speculative Maby RW Bro. Bob McBride, GL of sons are: Canada in the Province of Ontario Saint John the Baptist Don't say that you are too busy, Saint John the Evangelist or that you don't have any time.

The Patrons under the UGL of You have exactly the same numEngland, formed in 1813: ber of hours per day that were givEnglish Masonry became totally en to Helen Keller, Louis Pasteur, non-secular. The Holy Bible be- Michelangelo, Mother Theresa, came the Volume of Sacred Law. Leonardi da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.

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We find ourselves looking at the beginning of spring. Unlike the rest of the states, in the near future we will not need to worry about setting our clocks back or forward twice a year, however we should be aware of the sun and what it does for us.

The sun through out its time in relation to the earth is closest during the winter and spring months so why is it not the warmest time of the year? Science has explained to us that due to the earth’s tilt on its axis it places us further away from the sun’s rays but at the same time it creates a more time in darkness as we have seen from October through out this current day before the spring equinox.

This tells us that due to more of our time in darkness our portion of earth can cool down more through out the night as well as allow for moisture to stay in the air longer and become cooler bringing the snow that we have seen throughout the past winter season.

we can look at what we have been planning and start to make good use of our time in the sun before it becomes too oppressive in the coming summer months. So, if you have plans this is the time to start putting them into action. The time for waiting is now over it is now time to start!

Spring has always been a time of growth and start to the new year. Everything blooms and begins to grow. So, while you are working your way through your lives and your masonic journey look into what it is that you are planning to start and do you have a goal to accomplish this spring. For many it could also be finishing up some of those new year’s resolutions whereas for others it is completing a winter project that we started months ago. Either way lets get out there and set out to finish our goals before the sun becomes burning force that we dread in the summer.

Now we are starting to emerge from those cold Fraternally, days, and we are beginning to see more of the sun, more of the warmth, and more of the return and 2022 Senior Warden growth of plants. What does this mean for us as Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 masons as well as men? Well, this is a time where

John Woode

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Basic Principles. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It requires of its members a belief in God as part of the obligation of every responsible adult, but advocates no sectarian faith or practice.

Masonic ceremonies include prayers, both traditional and extempore, to reaffirm each individual's dependence on God and to seek divine guidance. Freemasonry is open to men of any faith, but religion may not be discussed at Masonic meetings.

The Oath of Freemasonry. The obligations taken by Freemasons are sworn on the Volume of the Sacred Law. They are undertakings to follow the principles of Freemasonry and to keep confidential a Freemason's means of recognition. The much discussed "penalties," judicial remnants from an earlier era, are symbolic, not literal. They refer only to the pain any honest man should feel at the thought of violating his word.

Freemasonry Compared with Religion. Freemasonry lacks the basic elements of religion: (a) It has no dogma or theology, no wish or means to enforce religious orthodoxy. (b) It offers no sacraments. (c) It does not claim to lead to salvation by works, by secret knowledge, or by any other means. The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with modes of recognition, not with the means of salvation.

The Supreme Being. Masons believe that there is one God and that people employ many different ways to seek, and to express what they know of God. Masonry primarily uses the appellation, "Grand Architect of the Universe," and other non-sectarian titles, to address the Deity. In this way, persons of different faiths may join together in prayer, concentrating on God, rather than differences among themselves. Masonry believes in reli- Freemasonry Supports Religion. Freemasonry is far gious freedom and that the relationship between the from indifferent toward religion. Without interfering in individual and God is personal, private, and sacred. religious practice, it expects each member to follow his Volume of the Sacred Law. An open volume of the Sa- own faith and to place his Duty to God above all other cred Law, "the rule and guide of life," is an essential part duties. Its moral teachings are acceptable to all reliof every Masonic meeting. The Volume of the Sacred gions.

Law in the Judeo/Christian tradition is the Bible; to Prepared by the Masonic Information Center(12/93) Freemasons of other faiths, it is the book held holy by Revised (9/98) them.

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The trivium is the lower division of the seven liberal arts and sciences and comprises grammar, logic and rhetoric. These three subjects were essential to a classical education and the study of the trivium was first established in ancient Greece. Trivium is a Latin word meaning "the place where three roads meet "and are the foundation for understanding the upper division of the seven liberal arts". The upper division or Quadrivium, is comprised of arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy.

As prospective members, candidates, Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts and Master Masons, we are introduced to a language (our Masonic ritual) which is both foreign and familiar to us. To learn, understand and communicate this new language we naturally rely on the trivium to accomplish that goal. Our ritual is a mix of verbiage from the 1700's to modern times with Biblical passages and references from the King James version of the Holy Bible.

According to Wikipedia, Grammar teaches the mechanics of language to the student.

This is the step where the student "comes to terms", defining the Grammar has different meanings and I'll use this objects and information perceived by the five sens- one for our study of the ritual. Grammar is the set es. of structural rules governing the composition of Logic is the mechanics of thought and of analysis, clauses, phrases and words in a natural language.

When we gain the knowledge of how our ritual is the process of composing sound arguments and identifying fallacious arguments and statements and put together and the meanings of words unfamiliar so systematically removing contradictions, thereby to us the words become easier to memorize and communicate. Once that task is mastered, we can producing factual knowledge that can be trusted. use logic to determine if this is factual knowledge Rhetoric is the application of language in order to and can be trusted. Understanding our ritual is the instruct and to persuade the listener and the read- true meaning of learning the ritual not just memoer. It is the knowledge (grammar) now understood rizing the words. Having used grammar and logic (logic) and being transmitted outwards as wisdom in learning and understanding the ritual ourselves, (rhetoric). it has prepared us for perfecting the use of 12

rhetoric to instruct and persuade our students of the truths it contains. Applying the skillful use of rhetoric in communicating to the candidate as well as all in attendance at our degrees the lessons of Freemasonry and of moral and ethical behavior completes a circle of knowledge that should stay in perpetual motion through generations.

We all have be asked at some time what our first impressions of Freemasonry were. To me in simple and basic terms, it was a reinforcement of the lessons taught to me in my youth. Through our ritual we communicate those same lessons on an adult level, one that as Men and Masons we should never lose sight of and constantly practice.

dent, especially a Freemason. It is vitally important we should endeavor to master these first three liberal arts in learning the ritual and communicating its principles to our candidates.

I believe that by adhering to those principles ourselves and passing them on to the next generation of Masons attracts men of diverse backgrounds and interests to come together for self-improvement, mutual aid and respect for each other and build a brighter future for all Mankind.

Fraternally,

RW Jim Baker 2022 Deputy Grand Master Grand Lodge of Arizona Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

Grammar, logic and rhetoric are the basis for learning, thinking and communicating for any stu-

The

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Busy weekend for the Chapter and this Advisor. On Friday, February 4, 2022 we had a Membership Lock-In Event. Starting off with games, then to an all you can eat pasta bar with bread, salad and desserts. Then a couple of rounds of indoor soccer.

Then slowed the pace down with games of Apples to Apples and Cards Against Humanity "Family Edition". Then concluded the evening with a couple of rounds of Hide n Seek. Young men finally crashed out around 1:00 a.m.. Young Men we're woken up with Black Eyed Peas; I Gotta Feeling for a continental breakfast and Masonic Service (community food bank was canceled due to building fumigation). A lot of fun, we had 7 members had 5 prospects in attendance. Two of the prospects we already had approved petitions from

late 2021. So after a quick interview to check no changes and that there interest to join was the same. We ended up with performing a short form. Unfortunately, those in attend-

ance were sleep deprived and dirty from Masonic Service of weeds, trash, organization and various other duties as needed. However we did have (3) of our members also in Scouts, participated in a Scouting for Food drive for the local Food Bank that concluded on Saturday. Proud of all these young men.

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The George Washington Memorial Society comprises a select group of members who are dedicated to supporting the Memorial and its Mission. The purpose of the Society is to raise support for the George Washington Masonic National Memorial’s operations and to increase awareness of the Memorial’s mission among Freemasons and the wider community.

The emblem of the Society is a special version of the official crest of The George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association. An image of the Memorial building in the center of the emblem serves as an important reminder of the commitment that each member of the George Washington Memorial Society has made.

Please note that GWMS membership is for individuals only. Lodges are encouraged to consider the Society of Washington Lodges, and other opportunities for support are available for lodges and other organizations as well.

Charter Membership is conferred for contributions of $1,000 or more to the Memorial with the membership application, and $250 or more per year thereafter.

Your Memorial Society dues benefit our annual fund, and are put to use to support the daily operations of the Memorial. To support the restoration work, consider an additional contribution to the Landmark Century Campaign.

The Masonic lodge, or 'blue lodge' gets its name because of the color blue's historic and religious associations with perfection, immortality and hope. It also represents universal friendship and benevolence - two virtues that should be "as extensive as the blue arch of heaven itself" in a Mason's mind, according to "The Exemplar: a Guide to a Mason's Actions," 15

Masonic Lodge Progressive Line: Lodge Officers are part of a “progressive line”, which is also known as “going through the chairs” … or as the Masonic Officer Chairs. This line of succession moves up one position at a time from one year to the next.

If no one asks to “step out of line” for any reason, 7 years from the time of becoming Junior Steward, the Master Mason will arrive at the chair of the Worshipful Master. The progression is as follows: Junior Steward, Senior Steward, Junior Deacon, Senior Deacon, Junior Warden, Senior Warden … and then Worshipful Master. The progressive line is used in the United States and in many other jurisdictions, as well.

Lodge Elections: In the Masonic Lodge, the top five Lodge Officers are (in this order) the Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary are elected by the Lodge members at their annual elections. Normally each position is filled for one year, however they may be re-elected to the same position depending on the circumstance. Lodge His Jewel is the SQUARE, which is a stonemason’s elections are performed via a Masonic Ballot Box. tool to ascertain true and correct angles of the cut and Masonic Lodge Officer Duties for Their Term in Of- smoothed stone … thus his Jewel symbolizes VIRfice: 1 year Appointed Lodge Officer Positions: The TUE. The Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge is other officers, which include the Senior Deacon, Jun- the highest ranking of all Lodge Officers which a ior Deacon, Senior Steward, Junior Steward, Marshal, Lodge may elect. The Worshipful Master sits in the Tiler and Chaplain are appointed positions by the East of the Lodge room (symbolic of the Rising Sun Worshipful Master. Other members of the Masonic in the East) and directs all of the business of the Lodge. Note: Even if the building faces a different Lodge may be called on to serve on. direction, the Master is said to be “in the East”. He Worshipful Master – Lodge Officer Duties: also presides over ritual and ceremonies. It is his duty

The Pinal County Animal Care and Control is once again full of dogs and needs our help again. Please bring in your old blankets and dog toys for us to donate for our next Stated Meeting!! There will be a box for collection of the donated items!

Other items that are needed: Cleaning supplies - Blankets and towels – Peanut butter (xylitol-free) – Pet Food—Medicine - Office supplies - Grooming tools

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to: SET THE CRAFT TO WORK AND GIVE Lodge Officers. While Freemasons call the Master, THEM NECESSARY INSTRUCTION FOR “Worshipful Master”, they do not actually worship THEIR LABOR. him. “Worshipful” is an honorary title which shows While the Worshipful Master’s rank is highest of all respect for his position. members. The Worshipful Master is responsible for every single thing within his lodge during his year as Master. He is ultimately responsible for every other lodge officer and their duties, every lodge committee, ritual and degree work, Masonic education, social functions, fundraisers, District and Grand Lodge liaison, Trestle Board communication, etc.

SENIOR WARDEN – Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewel is the LEVEL … symbolizing that all Masons meet on the level, without regard to social, political or religious beliefs or status. The Senior warden of a Masonic Lodge is the second in command within the Lodge Officers. In the absence of the Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden assumes the Worshipful Master’s duties. The Senior warden of a Masonic Lodge site in the West (symbolic of the setting sun) and assists the Worshipful Master in opening and closing the Lodge.

All eyes are upon the Master. If lodge functions go smoothly, it is the Master who takes the credit. If lodge functions go awry, it is the Master who bears the blame. Therefore, the Master wears many hats. It is his duty to preside over business meetings, the confer- The Senior Warden is in charge of the Lodge when it is a labor. His ancient duties were to pay the Craft (the members of the guild) their wages and to handle disputes among the worker. It is his duty to support the Master and to prepare himself for that office during the following year.

JUNIOR WARDEN-Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewell of Office is the PLUMB, which is a stonemason’s instrument used for ascertaining the alignment of a vertical surface. It symbolizes upright behavior among Masons. The Junior Warden of a Masonic Lodge is the third in command of the Lodge. The Junior Warden sits in the South (symbolic of the position of the sun at midday) and is responsible for the Brethren while the Lodge is at ease or refreshment. The Junior Warden also may open the lodge if the Master is unable to attend the meeting. It is the Junior Warder’s duty to arrange meals for the lodge, and typically the 2 Stewards act as his assistants in the responsibility.

ral of degrees, and delegation of duties to all other

Which Officers can open the Lodge? The Master, the Senior Warden, the Junior Warden or a Past Master. (Cont)

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SENIOR DEACON- Lodge Officer Duties: His jew- con’s Square and Compass has a moon in the center el is the SQUARE and COMPASS with the Sun in (rather than a sun), which signifies that he is in the the middle. The sun signifies that his position is in the West. The Junior Deacon of a Masonic Lodge is an Lower level, to the right of the Worshipful Master in assistant officer of the Lodge. He sits to the lower the East. His duty is as messenger of the Worshipful right of the Senior Warden. The Junior Deacon’s Master, hence he does a lot of walking. The Senior principles roles are to assist the Senior Warden by Deacon of the Masonic Lodge is an assistant officer carrying messages from the Senior Warden in the of the Lodge. The Senior Deacon’s principle roles West to the Junior Warden in the South and to guard are to welcome and escort both visitors and candi- the inner door of the Lodge. The Junior Deacon and the Tiler communicate with each other by knocking dates on the door (the Tiler from the outside … and the into the lodge and introduce distinguished visitors. It Junior Deacon from the inside). is his duty to assist the Worshipful Master and carry orders between the Worshipful Master and the Sen- SENIOR STEWARD- Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewell is the Cornucopia, which is an exact duplicate ior Warden. During degree rituals, Why a Bee ? he guides the new candidate and The beehive is found in Masonry as a reminder that conducts him in diligence and labor for a common good true haparound the lodge piness and prosperity are found. The bee is a symroom. During the bol of wisdom, for as this tiny insect collects pollen opening and clos- from the flowers, so men may extract wisdom from ing ceremonies, the experiences of daily life. the Senior Deacon opens the Holy Scriptures to the correct passage of the degree being worked and closes it after the of the Junior Steward’s Cornucopia. The Cornucopia lodge is adjourned. The Senior Deacon lights and signifies the “Horn of Plenty”. It is a goat horn filled extinguishes the candles at the altar. He carries the with the fresh fruits and vegetables to denote the ballot box around the lodge hen ne members are be- “fruits of your labors” and represents a job well done. ing voted upon. The Senior Deacon (and the Junior The Senior Steward of a Masonic Lodge is an apDeacon) both carry long staffs (or rods), because as pointed officer of the lodge and is tasked to undermessengers of the Worshipful Master, the staffs are study the Junior Deacon’s position and fill in for the symbolic of the caduceus (or wand) that the Roman Junior Deacon when absent. The Senior Steward’s winged god and messenger Mercury carried during principle role is to prepare the candidate during ritual their duties. Atop the rods are the jewels of their offic- and escort them to the lodge room and assist the Senior Deacon. In their entry Officer positions, both es.

Senior and Junior Stewards typically handle kitchen JUNIOR DEACON- Lodge Officer Duties: Like his duties and wait staff for the members. senior counterpart, the Jewel of his office is the SQUARE and COMPASS, however the Junior Dea- JUNIOR STEWARD- Lodge Officer Duties: His jewel is the Cornucopia, which is an exact duplicate 18

to the Senior Steward’s Cornucopia. The Cornucopia signifies the “Horn of Plenty”. It is a goat horn filled with the fresh fruits and vegetables to denote the “fruits of your labors” and represents a job well done. The Junior Steward of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge. His task is to

move in the progressive line. Treasures and Secretaries often serve their lodge in their respective positions for many years.

Hope you enjoyed this and represent your office in a fitting manner.

Freemasonry: A Brotherhood of Man understudy the Senior Steward position and fill in as needed. His principle role is to assist the Senior Under the Father of God Steward and Senior Deacon. Both Senior and Junior Fraternally, Stewards carry rods, atop which are the jewels of their offices.

Dewey Jefferson

LODGE OFFICER NOT IN THE PROGRESSIVE LINE: The following officers do not usually

2022 Junior Warden Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

Gila Valley is proud to initiate another great man into our Fraternity. Be sure to welcome Bro. Stanley Beard to our midst. He is a welcome addition to our Lodge.

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The “Capitular” or Chapter Degrees of Freemasonry refers the four degrees of the York Rite system that follow the “blue lodge” or “Craft” degrees. The Holy Royal Arch is the final degree and the culmination of the Chapter experience for a candidate. The Chapter is the second body of the York Rite of Freemasonry (following the Symbolic or 'Blue' Lodge), though in some Jurisdictions it is considered the completion of the initial three degrees and is part of the regular Craft experience. All Master Masons are eligible for membership. Contact RW Jim Baker, or WB Paul Dore at pauldoresr@cox.net for more information

Do you have a son 12-21 years Old? Saguaro Order of the DeMolay is the premier youth leadership organization building young men of character and dedicated to making young men better people and leaders and sponsored by Gila Valley Lodge 9, Pinal Lodge No. 30, and Eloy Lodge No. 46 Meetings are held twice monthly on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month starting at 6:00 pm. All parents are welcome and are encouraged to attend and get involved in this great organization. They meet at Pinal Lodge #30 located at 1140 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, Arizona 85122.

Great Men wear a Fez! We're counting on you… Who do you know that would make a good Mason and Shriner? A friend? A family member? A coworker? Commit to making a difference!

The future of our fraternity relies on your commitment.

CLICK HERE TO REFER A GOOD MAN The individual you refer will receive a series of communications, the first of which will identity you as the referral source.

The Scottish Rite is a Masonic organization that continues a Master Mason's education of the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite is one of several appendant groups of the worldwide fraternity known as Freemasonry. Each Valley has up to four Scottish Rite bodies, and each body confers a set of degrees. In the Southern Jurisdiction these are the Lodge of Perfection (4°-14°). Chapter Rose Croix (15°-18°), Council of Knights Kadosh (19°-30°), and the Consistory (31°-32°). The 33rd Degree is an honorary degree awarded for exceptional service. Have a question? Ask a Personal Rep!

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The Widows Sons, Masonic Riders Association is a group of Master Masons who have gathered together to promote Freemasonry within the motorcycling community and help introduce motorcycling to our non-riding Masonic brethren. As Freemasons we are committed to "Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth" tenets of our lives, as Widows Sons we are devoted to supporting Widows and Orphans of our Masonic brethren. We hold events and rides as fundraisers for this noble cause, and other charitable causes. The chapters in Arizona are very diverse with members from various areas, lodges, and a variety of motorcycles.

The goal of the Ladies’ Oriental Shrine, as set forth at the organizational meeting in 1903, is to promote sociability, good fellowship and the betterment of all Ladies connected with the organization. Our Ladies participate in parades, mini-clinics, Shrine Circuses, and much more. Ladies may choose to be active in a variety of special interest Units within each local Court such as Oriental Bands, Patrols, Clown or Dance Units. Our Ladies are always ready to display their pageantry and glamour in order to show the public how much they enjoy their activities.

Today, LOSNA has nearly 8,000 members in 64 Courts across North America and even members in Japan and Taiwan.

High Twelve is an association of Master Masons who desire an hour of Masonic fellowship independent of the formal ritual of Lodge but dedicated to the service to the fraternity. High Twelve was founded by E. C. Wolcott in Sioux City, Iowa on May 17, 1921.

We practice the great lessons of Freemasonry and encourage members to attend and participate in their Blue Lodge activities. High Twelve unifies Master Masons from many Lodges in an association where fellowship grows into lasting friendships. As High Twelve Masons, we support the Public School System and encourage participation in constructive community activities. There are over 300 active High Twelve Clubs with 25,000 members in the United States, Canada and Foreign Countries.

www.azmasoniclibrary.org 21

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Mar 3, Pinal Lodge No. 30

Feb 5, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

7:00 pm Stated Meeting

First Degree

Mar 12, White Mountain No. 3

9:00 am Degree Begins

10:00 am Stated Meeting

Mar 14, Sabbar Shrine

Mar 12, Globe Chapter No. 7 R.A.M

6:00 pm Stated Meeting

2:00 pm Stated Meeting

Mar 14, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

Mar 8, Ocotillo Chapter No. 21 OES

5:30 pm Trustee Meeting

Call for time

Mar 18, 2021 Town of Florence

Mar 10, Apache Lodge No. 69

Main Street Third Fridays 5:00 pm Event Begins

7:30 pm Stated Meeting

Mar 14, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 5:00 pm Dinner at Lodge 7:00 pm Stated Meeting 9:00 pm Post meeting discussion at Mount Athos

Mar 21, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Observing the Craft Book Club 5:30 pm Trustee Meeting

Mar 19, Memento Mori Widow Sons Location TBD: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WSMMChapter

11:00 am Stated Meeting

Mar 17, Eloy Lodge No. 46 7:00 pm Stated Meeting

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Jim Reid Gale MacDougall MWGM Mark Manning WB John O’Hara PM WB Delbert Lewis PM WB Ray Osbourn PM Wilbur (Bill) Dean Lawrence Baby Rylee Ringer Baby Miguel Martinez

Steve Murphy Bert Pampanin Jr. John Anderson Frank Musil Steve Johnson

Baby Angeliya Celeste Holt MW Grand Master of Arizona First Responders The Armed Forces Our Veterans Our dearly departed Brethren Brethren Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Town of Florence Government United States Government

Bert Pampanin Jr. Robert Shoppell Bert Pampanin III Lee Apger Ken Stewart Anthony Raimondi Daryl Neil Cody Linderoth Spencer Sego

3-16 3-22 3-24 3-25 3-26

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3-24-1975 3-28-1988 3-8-2008 3-29-2008 3-22-2010 3-26-2011 3-2-2013 3-14-2016 3-5-2021

Brethren, Friends, and Family, This year the Masonic Charities of Arizona approved 33 grants totaling $70,000 to worthy organizations throughout Arizona. These 501c3 charitable organizations provide much needed services to their communities all over Arizona Those services include Veteran assistance, Domestic abuse shelters, child learning disabilities, training and assistance for people with special needs, support for soldiers abroad, Adult literacy programs and Personal hygiene kits for the working poor and homeless.

We are able to award these Grants from the income of our investment fund, Lodge and Personal donations and support from Grand Lodge. In order to keep up with the desire to expand our Grant distribution to more organizations and communities around the State we ask for your help.

We have registered with the Amazon Smile Foundation. Amazon Smile will donate 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to the charitable organization selected by their customers. For Amazon customers to select the Masonic Charities of Arizona to receive these donations go to http://smile.amazon.com/ch/942746389 to automatically select us. Or you can go to www.smile.amazon.com and you will be prompted to select a charity. Now you are ready to shop and support the Masonic Charities of Arizona.

The Board of Directors of the Masonic Charities of Arizona extends our appreciation to all of you for your support.

Fraternally, Roger Biede III Secretary, Masonic Charities of Arizona rcbthree@hotmail.com www.masoniccharitiesaz.com 25

Email: jiminys@yahoo.com

Bro. Email: jwoode591@gmail.com

Dewey Jefferson Email: djndjedderson48@yahoo.com

MWGM Randy Jager 2021-22 Grand Master F. & A.M of Arizona

Bro. John Bryon Singer Email: jbyronsinger@aol.com

Chairman: WB Eric Smith Email: jiminys@yahoo.com

Bro. Lee Apger Chairman: John Woode

Email: lkapger@gmail.com

Email: jwoode591@gmail.com

Chairman: WB Dewey Jefferson Email: djndjedderson48@yahoo.com

WB Robert Malloy Email: robert_molloy@cox.net

Chairman: WB Roger Biede III PM Email: roger.biede@gmail.com

Chairman: Brian Gay

Bro. Steve Murphy

Email: bg1973@hotmail.com

Email: santanman7921@gmail.com

Chairman: WB Roger Biede III Email: roger.biede@gmail.com

Bro. Spencer Sego Email: spencersego@gmail.com

Chairman: John Woode Email: jwoode591@gmail.com

WB Anthony Raimondi

Roger Biede III PM Chairman

Email: raimondi_57@msn.com 26

Robert Molloy PM, John Woode

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The first mention of Moon Lodges can be found in the Cooke Manuscript of 1410, one of the oldest documents belonging to the Masonic Craft. In the U.S., Moon Lodges were first noted in colonial times around 1717 to be operating in Philadelphia, Boston and Tennessee There appears to have been approximately 3000 moon lodges in the U.S. at the turn of the last century but by the 1950’s that number had decreased to 500. Today, by last count, there are roughly 129 moon lodges in the U .

S .

A moon lodge was born out of necessity due to the lack of natural or artificial illumination by which one could travel to and from meetings. During the 18th century, transportation was limited to horseback, horse & buggy, walking and even in some circumstances by boat. There were no paved roads and very few gravel but merely two dirt ruts that would meander through bush and fields rarely in a straight line. With only a candle or coal oil lamp to light the way, a full moon provided welcome companionship for a long and lonely trek. Individuals would travel 8-10 miles or more and were unable to make the long trip home at night and would be supplied lodging by a fellow brother, leaving after breakfast to return home the next morning.

Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 continues to follow this tradition and is honored to be still one of the remaining “Moon Lodges” in the United States. Our Stated Meetings are the Monday On or Before the Full Moon of the Month, The Lodge also goes “Dark” during the summer months of July and August, where no Stated Meetings are 29held.