Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 Trestleboard - Feb/Mar

T H E T A F T - D I A Z S T A T E S M A N

February/ March 2023

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297

Bimonthly Trestleboard

February - March

Lux mentis Lux orbis*

This bimonthly communication is meant to keep you as a Taft-Diaz brother apprised of what is happening in your lodge. This will be released after the Stated Meeting for the ensuing two months. *Light

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”

Brethren, there is no perfect organization in existence. However, this of ours teaches us to be men of outstanding and understanding character. Let us continue this great tradition by being the optimists in the storm.

Brother Winston Churchill

Worshipful Master

Oscar Vazquez, PM

The Column of Strength

Senior Warden

E. David Whitley, PM

My Brethren All, I want to start by saying Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Valentine’s Day, and Happy Birthday to everyone!!! The thing about doing a bi-monthly trestle board is that there’s such a long gap between them. I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays. Time with family is always hard to come by, so it was nice to slow down a little.

Our lodge and Fraternity suffered a tremendous loss on December 13, 2022. Brother Thomas (Tom) Frank Jenkins laid down his working tools and ascended to that great celestial lodge above. He passed at 0124 in the presence of his son James, Mr & Mrs David Desbien, and me. It was hard to watch him slip away, but Tom had struggled for a while, and I knew he was ready. After his passing, I reflected on our conversation while he was in the rehabilitation hospital. It dawned on me that he knew his time was nigh! I had just brushed it off as him being tired, but he knew!! His last words for me were, “David, I hope you have a good life……take care of yourself and your family……. thank you for being a good friend and brother…... I’m going to miss you.” That hit hard!!! I really liked Tom (and still do), and I miss him! Talking with him, hearing his gruff, raspy voice, and enjoying his wit and clever sarcasm now leaves a small void. It makes me reflect on the people in my life. The people I talk with regularly and those I only encounter occasionally. It’s made me take stock of my life and the people I know. I’m thankful for my wife and family….. I’m thankful for those people I can truly count as friends and for the others that color the rest of my life. I think this is something that we all should do. Just stop and reflect on the people we have in our lives and for the gift of life that we all enjoy every day…. sometimes just walking around oblivious to our blessings. I thank Bro. Jenkins for reminding me of this.

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As the Sun in the South...

In asking Freemasonry to share with you its past, present, and future

You must bear in mind that the relationship is a reciprocal one

As a Freemason, certain things are expected of you.

Remember always:

The calling of a Freemason is a high one, and your personal conduct should always reflect this.

Loyalty to home, to country, and to the Fraternity is expected of you at all times.

Patriotism is a duty. You should not approve of disloyalty or rebellion.

Freemasonry stands for liberty, equality, and Fraternity. Not only for other Masons but for all humanity.

Freedom of thought, speech, and action are supported by Freemasons so far as it is not incompatible with the rights of others.

Every Freemason is the enemy of ignorance, bigotry, oppression, superstition, and all mental and spiritual darkness.

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Junior Warden Reggie Douglass

Mark D. Crockett, PM

We have been busy as of late Grand Master G Clay Smith will have a conference on 10-11 March at the El Paso Scottish Rite Breakfast starts at 730, registration at 8, and the conference begins at 1000.

During this year’s Grand Annual Communication, El Paso Masons had the opportunity to speak with the Education and Service committee chairman. We are looking into hosting an Officer’s Leadership Training seminar this year. We need approximately 30 masons to volunteer for the training here in El Paso. If we can’t reach the magic number, the Grand Lodge has offered to waive the seminar fee and lodging costs for the El Paso masons who travel to the already scheduled seminars.

During the February Stated Meeting, we discussed Rules and Regulations and what we are “calling accepted norms.” Some rules and accepted norms discussed included a dress code suggestion for officers and that all lodge members are encouraged to wear professional attire (suit and tie or coat and tie) when visiting other lodges We will be discussing others at the next stated meeting

And lastly, we will be receiving the DDGM on his first official visit to our lodge during the April Stated Meeting

We are thrilled to announce that our annual dues can now be paid monthly via text! This new option will offer members more convenience and easier budgeting

Text the keyword “DUES” to (915) 233-7584, and you will be sent a secure payment link where you can make your dues payment. For your recollection, annual dues are $150. The system doesn’t allow for the $12.50/month. If you choose to pay monthly, $13 will cover the annual fee, with a $6 donation at the end of the cycle. You’ll receive a confirmation of payment shortly after

Conversely, you can make a generous donation, if you wish, to your lodge. Text “DONATE” to the same number, and follow the prompts.

Thank you for your investment in Taft-Diaz. We are excited for the future and the betterment of your lodge.

Secretary

Treasurer Russell R. Booth, PM

April Stated Meeting

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 will be receiving District Deputy Grand Master Cliff Walsh on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 7:00 PM

We are anticipating a launch date for the website at the beginning of March. Keep an eye out for more info.

Junior Past Grand Master Brad Billings appointed Brs. Vazquez, Crockett, Whitley & Booth as Grand Representatives to the following Mexican Grand Lodges:

1.

2.

3.

Vazquez - Estado de Mexico

Crockett - Estado de Colima

Whitley - Estado de Guerrero Booth - Estado de Sonora

4. Congratulations Brothers! Grand Master Billings appointed Brother Booth to the Communications Committee. His term ends in 2029

Elevated Solutions donated its Text-todonate software to the lodge. The lodge will use it for paying dues, raising donations and communications.

Submitted by:

WM Oscar Vazquez

SUBMISSION MEMBER

After 11 years as a Mason, I finally had the pleasure of attending a Grand Lodge Communication. The stories of Grand Lodge itself proved to be accurate. Masons from all over Texas taking over a little town to hash out the nitty gritty details of our fraternity The tending of business was tedious and mostly boring The quarrels at times seemed childish and unneeded, but hey some one has to do it I did feel pride and honor being able to represent the best interests of the lodge. It really is a huge responsibility to not only consider things that you may desire but to also have to consider the things that are best for the lodge for the future.

The best part of attending actually happens outside of Grand Lodge walls The lodge booked our own Air BNB for our members to continue the great business of brotherly love and affection Having the opportunity to meet Brothers from around the state and finding that you have the same concerns and desires for the future of Masonry really helps connect the bonds of brotherhood. We like to say that when you join Masonry, you join a brotherhood that stretches around the world. Well, attending Grand Lodge was the first true proof of that brotherhood. Now I have more of a desire to travel the country and the world so that I may meet Brothers from all over and be able to say at the end of my journey that I truly did have an endless number of Brothers

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 Bimonthly Trestleboard

THE HAND OF MYSTERIES: THE HAND OF MYSTERIES: THE HAND OF MYSTERIES:

WHAT SECRETS DOES IT

WHAT DOES IT

WHAT SECRETS DOES IT

HOLD? HOLD? HOLD?

by Russell Booth, PM

The Masonic Hand of Mysteries symbolizes great significance in the world of Freemasonry. It represents the teachings and beliefs central to this ancient and revered fraternal organization.

The hand is typically depicted with its fingers spread wide as if offering a gift or imparting knowledge This gesture symbolizes the openness and willingness to share the wisdom and secrets of the craft with those who are worthy and deserving.

In Freemasonry, the hand is often associated with the concept of "light." Masons believe that pursuing knowledge and understanding is a never-ending journey and that the hand symbolizes the light that illuminates this path. Through their work and study, Masons strive to gain a greater understanding of the mysteries of the universe and the purpose of life.

The hand is also a symbol of power and authority. In the context of Freemasonry, this power is not meant to be used for personal gain or to exert control over others but rather to serve as a force for good in the world Masons believe that by using their knowledge and skills to help others and positively impact their communities, they are living up to the ideals of the craft.

The hand is also a reminder of the importance of secrecy in the Masonic tradition. The secrets and traditions of the craft have been passed down from generation to generation. The hand symbolizes the trust and responsibility that Masons have to maintain the confidentiality of these teachings.

The individual fingers of the Masonic Hand of Mysteries hold significant meaning, and each represents a different aspect of the teachings and beliefs of Freemasonry. Here is a brief description of each finger:

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 Bimonthly Trestleboard

Thumb: The thumb is typically seen as symbolizing strength and stability. In the context of Freemasonry, it represents the strength of character and resolve that a Mason must possess to uphold the ideals of the craft. The thumb is often depicted with a square and compass, two of Freemasonry's most recognizable symbols. The compass symbolizes the importance of maintaining balance and moral integrity. In contrast, the square symbolizes the importance of rectitude and fairness in all dealings with others.

Index Finger: The index finger is often associated with pointing or directing. In the context of Freemasonry, it symbolizes guidance and direction. Masons believe that the pursuit of knowledge and understanding is a never-ending journey, and the index finger represents the guidance that they receive along the way. It is often depicted with an all-seeing eye, another common symbol in Freemasonry. The all-seeing eye represents the idea that a higher power is always watching and guiding us and that pursuing knowledge and understanding is a never-ending journey.

Middle Finger: The middle finger is typically seen as the tallest finger. In the context of Freemasonry, it represents the highest ideal or goal that a Mason should strive to attain. This could be a personal goal, such as selfimprovement, or a broader goal, such as making a positive impact in the world. It is often depicted with a pillar or column, symbolizing stability and support. In the context of Freemasonry, the pillar represents the support and guidance that Masons receive from the Fraternity and their fellow Masons.

Ring Finger: The ring finger is often associated with commitment and devotion. In the context of Freemasonry, it represents Masons' commitment and dedication to the craft. It is often depicted with a serpent or rope, which symbolizes the idea of binding or connecting. In the context of Freemasonry, the serpent or rope represents the bonds of friendship and brotherhood that are formed within the Fraternity. By joining the Fraternity, a Mason is committing to live up to the ideals and teachings of Freemasonry.

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 Bimonthly Trestleboard

Some events coming up soon are the cleanup at Bro. Jenkins’s house on February 18. A George Washington degree on February 20 at the El Paso Scottish Rite Temple. The Grand Master will be in El Paso in March for his Grand Master’s conference We will have the DDGM (RW Cliff Walsh) make his official visit at April’s stated meeting, so please plan to attend Let’s have a good showing for him As well We’re trying to work out a fundraiser on April 29. It will be a fish fry and white party, which we will work with the PHA Royal Arch. We’re looking to have all our past masters and widows attend the luncheon and then transition into the party in the evening If you’re interested in coming or helping, please let me know. This money will benefit the lodge’s general fund and lodge scholarship program. More to follow as it is worked out.

In closing, I thank everyone for the work done thus far. We still have more to do. Don’t forget that we have different events happening every Tuesday Some days will be practice, and others will be a get-together at a venue for fun and frivolity Remember all work and no play make for a dull time.

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Little Finger: The little finger is often seen as the smallest finger. In the context of Freemasonry, it represents the humility and modesty that a Mason should possess. It is often depicted with a key or a lock, symbolizing the idea of secrets and confidentiality. In the context of Freemasonry, the key or lock represents the importance of maintaining the secrets and traditions of the craft and the responsibility that Masons have to preserve these teachings for future generations. Despite the knowledge and wisdom that they may acquire, Masons are reminded to always remain humble and modest in their dealings with others.

A Mason champions the cause of the widow, the fatherless, the weak, and the oppressed.

He challenges the arbitrary assumption by anyone of the power to dictate any group or individual’s actions, beliefs, and destinies.

These time-honored virtues so cherished by our forefathers are still relevant.

Humility, patience, charity, and gentleness are among the hallmarks of purity and integrity of character

That is what Freemasonry expects

It's important to note that these symbols are not universally recognized and can vary depending on the Masonic tradition or jurisdiction. Nevertheless, they help to reinforce the meanings and interpretations associated with each finger of the Masonic Hand of Mysteries. Masons are encouraged to explore and understand the symbolism in their own way.

In conclusion, the Masonic Hand of Mysteries is a rich and multifaceted symbol representing Freemasonry's core values and beliefs. Whether as a symbol of knowledge, power, or secrecy, the hand continues to hold a central place in the hearts and minds of Masons worldwide.

Information: 449-4577

All times are 6:30 pm, unless otherwise noted

February

1st Tuesday – Stated (even months)/ Planning (odd months)

2nd Tuesday - Education

All events open to Masons only, unless otherwise noted

Cleanup at Tom Jenkins House 1:00 pm; location 10612 Galatea Place

George Washington Degree; Scottish Rite; 6:30 pm

DDGM Practice; Master Masons only

Fellowship: Int'l Bar; 114 E Mills Ave A.

3rd Tuesday - Ritual Work

4th Tuesday Fellowship

March

Education & Discussion; Prstd. by Br. Booth

Grand Master's dinner (10th); 6:30 pm

Great American (701 S. Mesa Hills)

GM's Conference (11th); 8:00 am - bkfst; 10:00 am conf.: El Paso Scottish Rite

DDGM Practice; Master Masons only

Fellowship: Pockets (Zaragoza)

DDGM Practice; Master Masons only

L O D G E I N F O R M A T I O N

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297

1340 Murchison Ave. El Paso, Texas 79902

Date of Charter: December 5, 1946

Worshipful Master: Oscar Vazquez, PM

Senior Warden: E. David Whitley, PM

Junior Warden: Reggie Douglass

Treasurer: Russell R. Booth, PM

Secretary: Mark D. Crockett, PM

Senior Deacon: Alfonzo Barron

Junior Deacon: Jason Stanzione

Grand Lodge Information:

Grand Master: G Clay Smith

DDGM: Cliff Walsh

District: 60

Meeting information:

Stated Meetings:

1st Tuesday of June, August, October, December, February, April

Dinner: 6:00 PM

Meeting: 7:00 PM

Attire: Suits/Jackets & tie Taft-Diaz

Taft-Diaz Lodge #1297 Bimonthly

Taft-Diaz Leadership