lewis apron returns home

Montana Masonic NewsPO Box 1158Helena, MT 59624-1158

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US POSTAGE PAIDPermit No. 197Helena, MTNon-Profit Organization

DECEMBER 2006PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

volume 78 •number 4

The Masonic Apron of Meriwether Lewisarrived back to Montana after completing thethree year loan to the Missouri Historical

Society and the National Lewis and Clark BicentennialExhibit.

The much anticipated return of the Masonic Apronof Meriwether Lewis came to a joyous end on October9th with the arrival of Jeff Meyer, a curator with theMissouri Historical Society who hand carried the apronback to Montana from the Smithsonian in WashingtonD.C. The freight truck containing the display case whichhad been used with the national exhibit over the lastthree years arrived on October 10th. It took thecombined efforts of twelve brothers to off-load thedisplay case from the freight truck and move it into theGrand Lodge building.

Two hundred years after Meriwether Lewis andWilliam Clark set out from St. Louis on theirtranscontinental journey of exploration, the Lewis andClark National Bicentennial Exhibition was establishedand set out on a three year, multi-city exhibition tocommemorate their adventure.

The Masonic Apron of Brother Meriwether Lewis wasdeemed to be a significant artifact to be part of theexhibit and was the only artifact from Montana to beincluded in the exhibition.

On Friday, November 10th a reception and exhibitGrand Opening was held in the Montana MasonicMuseum to welcome back the Masonic Apron of ourBrother Meriwether Lewis. The reception started offwith a hardy welcome and introductions by ReidGardiner, Grand Secretary and Curator of the Museum.Next the crowd was treated to a musical tribute by theDaughters of the Nile, Patrol Drummers, SapphiraTemple No.79, who had been given permission toperform by their Queen, Margie Fowler. Theperformance of these drummers insured that everyone

Lewis Apron Returns Home

in attendance had their blood circulatingand hearts pumping. It was an excitingperformance.

The Grand Secretary then gave a shorthistory of the various display cases whichhave been used over the last 45 years andthe current technology employed with thenew display case. RW Brother Gardinerprovided the following details of theApron’s journey.

As an exhibit of the National Lewis &Clark Bicentennial Exhibition the Apronhad been part of a three year, multi-citytour. It was viewed at the following venues:St. Louis, at the Missouri Historical Society -viewers 187,000; Philadelphia, at theAcademy of Nature and Science - viewers41, 234; Denver, at the Museum of Nature and Science- viewers 146,000; Portland, at the Oregon HistoricalSociety -viewers 65,000; and the Smithsonian Museumof Natural History - views unknown as the Smithsoniankeeps overall visitor counts and not for individualexhibits. However, it seems realistic to say that between449,668 and 600,000 people viewed the Apron duringthe exhibition. MWGM Tom Valente discussed thehistorical importance of the Apron and then recitedthe White Leather Apron lecture to demonstrate theimportance of the apron to a Mason. Brother RockeyWhipkey (3) and Tom Gocksch (3, 5) Grand Organistunveiled the display as Nancy Fuller of the Sapphira

Merry Christmas&

Happy NewYear

Patrol performed a drum-roll. Other guests inattendance included the Honorable James E. Smith,Mayor of Helena; Deputy Grand Master DavidNielsen; Honorary Past Grand Master and Senior PastGrand Secretary Donald Schenck; Past Grand MasterGerald Shay and Past Grand Master Alan Harkins.Special thanks to the Peabody Museum for the photoand permission to use the image of the Raven Bustlethat is shown with the display and to the MontanaHistorical Society for assisting in the preparation of theRaven Bustle display. The reception followed with hors’dovers, wine, ice tea, coffee and mints.

Delivery of the Apron Case

2 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS DECEMBER 2006

The Montana Masonic News is an officialpublication of the Grand Lodge AncientFee and Accepted Masons of Montana and

the Montana Masonic Foundation Corporation.Unless otherwise noted, articles appearing in thispublication express only the private opinion orassertions of the writer, and do not necessarilyreflect the official position of the Grand Lodge. Thejurisdiction speaks only through the Grand Masterand the Executive Board, when attested to as official,in writing, by the Grand Secretary.

The editorial staff invites contributions in the formof informative articles, reports, news and othertimely information (of about 500 to 1000 words inlength) that broadly relate to Montana Masonry,Masonic law, lore, customs, history, symbolism,philosophy, responsibility of membership, etiquette,current events, and/or general public interest. When

possible, photographs that illustrate theseinformative articles should accompany thesubmission. Pieces submitted should be typed,double-spaced and preferably accompanied by acomputer disk in neutral PC format (MSWordpreferred with formatting off) or via e-mail to:[email protected]

Articles are subject to editing and, whenpublished, become the property of the Grand LodgeAF&AM of Montana. No compensation is allowed for

any articles, photographs, or other materials submittedfor publication.

Permission to reprint articles will be granted uponwritten request to the Editor from recognized MasonicPublications and others. When reprinted the articlesshould note: “Reprinted with permission of theMontana Masonic News.”

Please direct all correspondence and changes ofaddress to:

Editor: Montana Masonic News

c/o Grand Secretary

PO Box 1158

Helena, Montana 59624

or e-mail to [email protected]. Pleaseprovide full given name, Lodge or affiliation and USMailing address.

Article and Photo submissionsArticles: Pieces submitted should be typed,

double-spaced and preferably accompanied by acomputer disk in neutral PC format (MSWordpreferred with formatting off.

Photo: Black and white or color, preferablyaccompanied by a computer disk with photo imagein .jpg, .bmp, .tif. Include who took the photo, whenand where.

Advertising: Anyone interested in advertising inthe paper will need to initiate a New Agreement.

Greetings From the Grand East

Where was the

11th Annual

Communication

(1875) of the

Grand Lodge of

Montana held?

(Answer page 10)

Trivia Question

My Brothers: One of the benefits of beingGrand Master of Masons is that my dutiesrequire me to travel around the state,

visiting lodge meetings and other festivities, andmeeting many of you in your lodges. It is during thesevisits that I experience the brotherly love and sincerefriendship that binds us together into one sacredsociety.

In most of my visits during the past six months, Ihave been impressed with the activity that is occurringin lodges, large and small, throughout the jurisdiction.Petitions are being received and degrees are beingconferred. I have reached the half-way point in mytenure as Grand Master with a feeling of optimism,fueled by the opinion that the membership pushstarted by PGM Dave Prewett and continued by PGMJack Anderson is picking up momentum. We are gettingnew members throughout the jurisdiction. This makesme very optimistic about the future of the Craft. Butthe influx of new members presents all of us withserious challenges.

When we bring a new man into Masonry, we owe itto him to educate him about the lessons contained inour ritual and the principles and teachings of ourFraternity. This can best be accomplished one-on-oneby assigning a mentor to each new candidate. Thementor’s responsibility is to make the new brotherwelcome in the lodge, to sit with him in lodge, and toteach him the protocol and courtesies used in thelodge that have become second nature to most of us.The mentor also must keep the new Mason informed oflodge activities for both him and his family (if he hasone), and determine his interests and capabilities so theWorshipful Master can be advised on how best toinvolve the new brother in lodge activities and utilizehis talents. If you believe that you can do this, pleasetell your Worshipful Master that you would volunteerto be a mentor. The mentor should not be confusedwith the coach. The coach’s responsibility is to teachthe new Mason his proficiency, either one-on-one or ina class setting. While some Masons are capable to

being both mentor and coach, there is no objection tohaving two Masons fill these responsibilities to the newMason.

In addition, we must give the new Masons reasons tocontinue attending lodge meetings. Does your lodgehave a program for every meeting, or at least everyother meeting? This program can consist of Masoniceducation, such as a discussion of the meaning of ourobligations. It can be a guest speaker talking about aMasonic or non-Masonic subject. Dinners with theladies, in the lodge or elsewhere, are always popular.Ideas are being provided to each lodge monthly fromthe U.S. Masonic Renewal Program.Lodge officers must make itworthwhile for their members toattend the meetings. You can helpkeep the meetings interesting andvaried by volunteering to lead someactivity that interests you.

I am asking all Masons to assisttheir lodges in identifying people oftheir communities who may be inneed of one-time assistance. Do youknow someone who has a one-timeneed for monetary charity? If so, talkto the Worshipful Master of yourlodge. The one-time need may beeligible for lodge and MontanaMasonic Foundation assistance fromthe M.A.S.O.N. (Masonic AssistanceSupporting Our Neighbors)program. Each Worshipful Masterhas the eligibility guidelines for thisprogram.

I also want to remind all Masons that therequirements (refer to page 12 for details) for theGrand Master’s Classes (one-day degree conferrals)have changed this year. Classes will be conducted onFebruary 10 in Great Falls, March 10 in Drummond,April 21 in Lewistown, and May 19 in Eastern Montana(town to be announced). In the February, March and

May classes, only the Fellowcraft and Master Masondegrees will be conferred. Candidates must beinvestigated, balloted upon, initiated, and have passed asatisfactory proficiency in their home lodge or bycourtesy work prior to attending the class. This changeis intended to increase the bond that each new Masonhas with his mother lodge. All three degrees will beconferred in the April class. If you know someone whois a potential candidate for one of the Grand Master’sclasses, it is not too early to start the process.

Thank you to those of you who contributed to thisyear’s Grand Master’s appeal, in which you were

provided withpersonalizedreturn addresslabels, and askedto contribute tothe MontanaMasonicFoundation. Theprogram is nowclosed, and theMontana MasonicFoundation hasreceived morethan $10,000from it. Thank youvery, very much.The interest andgrowth from yourcontributions willenable theFoundation tocontinue its

charity and educational work.

Finally, I hope each of you had a Happy Thanksgivingholiday. We, as Americans, Montanans, and Masons,have very much to be thankful for. The Great Architecthas truly blessed us all. As we enter upon the holidayseason, Pat and I want to wish all of you and yourfamilies a very Merry Christmas and a Happy andProsperous New Year.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

MONTANA MASONIC NEWS DECEMBER 2006 3

The Pondera Masonic Lodge presents a check from the Lodge to Daniell Moritz to help defreyher medical expenses. Pictured are from left to right: Everett Snortland, Daniell Moritz, KimMoritz and Jay Castle. Photo by Brad Huffman.

Independence Hall in Philadelphia, PA hasmany Masonic connections. It stands on landpurchased by William Allen, Grand Master ofPA. The ground was staked by EdwardWolley, a Mason. Thomas Boude, the brickmason, was Secretary of St. John’s Lodge inPhiladelphia and later Deputy Grand Master.Benjamin Franklin, Past Grand Master of PA,rang the bell to call the populace on July 8,1776 to hear the reading of the Declarationof Independence. The Liberty Bell cracked in1835 when it tolled the death of Chief JusticeJohn Marshall, Past Grand Master ofVirginia.

* Masonic Tid Bit*

When a newly initiated Brother receives hislamb-skin or white leather Apron, he istold that the badge with which he is

being invested is, “more ancient than the Golden Fleeceor Roman Eagle; more honorable than the Star andGarter or any other order.”So, how old is that badge?The Order of the GoldenFleece was a chivalric orderfounded in 1430 by Philipthe Good of Burgundy. TheOrder of the Eagle wasfounded in 1433 byAlbrecht von Habsburg,Duke of Austria, who laterbecame the Holy RomanEmperor. The Order of theGarter was founded in1348 by King Edward III ofEngland, and the Order ofthe Star, in 1351 by KingJean II of France. These areall orders of knighthood,members ofwhich areallowed to wearthe distinctivebadge of theOrder.

Notice thatthe Orders ofthe GoldenFleece and theEagle are actuallythe most recent,but that thebadge of aMason (theApron) isdescribed asmore ancientthan they are.Isn’t that odd?The authors of the Work may in fact be referring not tothe medieval Order of the Golden Fleece, but rather tothe legend of Jason and the Argonauts, recorded in thethird century BC by Apollonius of Rhodes, the librarian

How Ancient is the Golden Fleece?

Have you ever wondered why we use the phrase“from the Lodge of the Holy Saints John at

Jerusalem”?

According to a traditional Masonic legend the firstlodge of the fraternity was located at Jerusalem andanciently was dedicated to King Solomon. Later, Lodgeswere dedicated to St. John the Baptist, then to St. Johnthe Evangelist – and finally to both. The legend furtherdeclares that all Lodges are descendants of the originalLodge at Jerusalem; so, in keeping with this tradition,we say that every Masons hails from such a Lodge,which is equivalent to saying that he is from “a just andlawfully constituted Lodge.”

Lodge of the HolySaints John

of the great library at Alexandria. And the Roman Eaglethey refer to could be the standard of the Roman Armyused in the first century BC. But the legend of theGolden Fleece is a myth of Hercules and the gods, nota real event. And the Roman Army’s Eagle was a

standard carried into battle, not a badge wornby an individual.

The answer to this may be found in theWork itself. It says that the badge of a Mason isolder than the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle.It does not however, say it is older than theStar and Garter. Does that not imply that it isnot as old as they are? When the candidate istold that Freemasonry is older than the Orderof the Golden Fleece, but not as old as theOrder of the Star, he being told that the Craftdates from somewhere between 1351 and1430!

What was happening in the world at that time? TheNorman cathedral at York was being torn down andreplaced by the present Gothic structure; the BritishParliament was passing laws which formally organized

the trade guilds, including one statute in 1389 whichrequired that guilds and brotherhoods submit chartersand letters patent; and the Halliwell Manuscriptcontaining the Regius Poem was written. Thismanuscript, which some date to 1390, contains theoldest record of Freemasonry which we have, and wasthe basis for the Ancient Charges which are found inour Book of Constitutions. Thus it seems that theauthors of the Work were stating that Freemasonry hadit’s origins in the stonemasons’ guilds formed in the14th century – or at least the Apron did.

Special thanks to: W. Bro. David Cameron, Grand RiverLodge, Ontario, and the Alberta Freemason.

Painting by Erasmuz Quelin 1636 -1638 of Jason and the Golden Fleece

Order of the Golden Fleece

Order of the Star and Garter

4 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS SEPTEMBER 2006

This picture was taken on November 2,2006 at the 78th Annual InternationalGrand Lodge Banquet and Reception,

sponsored by Lafayette Lodge No. 241 in Seattle.

Pictured are: Front row, left to right: MWB IsaacBrower-Berkhoven, Grand Master, MW Grand Lodgeof AF&AM of British Columbia and Yukon; MWBCharles W. McQuery, Grand Master, MW GrandLodge of F&AM of Washington; WB Michael L.Ellsworth, Worshipful Master, Lafayette Lodge No. 241,F&AM of Washington; and MWB M. Harden Keys, Jr.,Grand Master, MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge ofF&AM of Washington. Second row, left to right: MWBWilliam A. Martin, Grand Master, MW Grand Lodgeof AF&AM of Oregon; andMWB Thomas E. Valente, Jr.,Grand Master, MW Grand Lodge of AF&AM ofMontana. Third row, left to right: MWB Marvin B.Fitzpatrick, Grand Master, MW Grand Lodge of F&AMof Alaska; MWB Michael A. Sutton, Grand Master,

Senator Jon Tester (D)Jon Tester, 50, is a third-generationfamily farmer who grows organiccrops on Montana landhomesteaded by his grandfather in1916; and a former music teacher.He became president of theMontana state Senate last year. W.Brother Jon is a Past Master ofTreasurer Lodge No. 95 in BigSandy.

Majority of Montana’s Congressional Delegation Still MasonsCongressman Denny Rehberg (R)Denny Rehberg, 51, is a fifth-generationMontanan who has been involved in ranchingand public service. He has served in theMontana House of Representatives and asLieutenant Governor. He has served asMontana’s lone seat in the House ofRepresentatives since 2000. Bro. Denny is amember of Ashlar Lodge No. 29 in Billings.

78th Annual International GrandLodge Banquet

BB#41 invited Sgt. Klark Barrett, of the Montana Army National Guard totalk about his experiences during his tour in Iraq. Barrett talked about the vast

differences in how SaddamHussein lived in luxury and hispeople lived in nothing morethat shacks. Some of the homeshad no roofs and runningwater was non-existant.

The photo below shows awall full of bulets holes whereHussein had the workers of thispowerplant killed, after theysabotaged the equipment, sothey could not help theAmerican forces.

WM Wayne Tice presentedSgt. Barret with a certificate ofappreciation and presented hiswife, Vicky, with a gift certificate.

Boulder-Basin #41Celebrates Veterans Day

MW Grand Lodge of AF&AM of Idaho; and MWB JamesD. Woodward, Grand Master, MW Grand Lodge ofF&AM of Utah.

Our VisionThe Masons of Montana will be recognized

as a relevant and respected Fraternity,committed to attracting, developing and

retaining all men of high quality who strivefor self improvement and the opportunity

to make a positive difference in theircommunity, and in the lives of those around

them.

Our MissionFreemasonry in Montana strives to satisfyour members as we teach moral standards,

and support a way of life that promotesfellowship, brotherhood, and self-

improvement through excellence inleadership, education, family, charity, and

community involvement.

MONTANA MASONIC NEWS SEPTEMBER 2006 5

The National Association of Masonic Scouters(NAMS) is now being formed.

Its purpose is to foster and develop the support ofthe Boys Scouts of America by and among Freemasonswhile upholding the tenets of the fraternity.Membership – Regular Members will be Master Masonswho are in good standing in a regularly charteredLodge and who are registered adult members of theBoy Scouts of America. Associate Membership will be

for Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts, familymembers of Regular Members of NAMS, and MasterMason who are formerly registered members of

the Boy Scouts of America or who have an affinity forScouting but are not presently registered members. Ifinterested contact: Bro. David I. Karp [email protected](mailto:[email protected]) UniversalCraftsmen Council of Engineers, Inc.

This Council is composed of Master Masons in goodstanding and is organized for the education ofengineers and craftsmen. Contact: Al Berry, GrandSecretary, 44960 State Highway 104, Chambersburg, IL62323.

The Grand Lodge Office has a supply of these 2007 wall-calendarswith beautiful Masonic artwork. A collection of Masonic Themedimages presented by Duncan Russell, Blake Gardiner and StephenMcKim..... a fresh twist we hope... enjoy!

Calendars are $20.00 each with $5.00 going to the MontanaMasonic Foundation. To obtain a calendar send $20 (includesshipping) for each calendar and this form to: Grand Lodge ofMontana PO Box 1158 Helena, Montana 59624 or contact BroReid Gardner at (406) 442-7774.

Christie Hageman, age 22, daughter of PGMRichard and Lady Beverly Hageman of Billingsis the reigning Miss Montana 2006. Christie a

former Job’s Daughter and member of Billings BethelNo. 3 has served as BethelHonored Queen, and was MissJunior Job’s Daughter ofMontana and also Miss Job’sDaughter of Montana. ChristieHageman, is a singing sensationwith a voice as powerful anddynamic as all of Montana, sheis a native of Billings.Graduating valedictorian ofBillings Senior High School,Christie continued her pursuitof vocal excellence at San JoseState University, where shegraduated magna cum laudewith a Bachelors of Music inVocal Performance. She hasbeen accepted into the Master of Vocal Performance atthe University of Texas in Austin. Miss Hageman hasperformed many genres of music, including gospel-toopera and country-to-Broadway on American andItalian stages. She has performed with the Rimrock

Photo courtesty of Clark Marten Photography - Columbus,Montana and special thanks to the Miss MontanaScholarship Program.

Miss Montana 2006Opera Company and has sung in numerous benefitconcerts. Christie and her dynamic voice are oftenrequested to sing the Star Spangled Banner at openingceremonies for sporting events, conventions, and grand

openings. At age 18, Christie wasnamed the National High SchoolVoice Winner from the MusicTeachers National Association.Miss Montana 2006 states, “Musicis my passion, my careerambition, and a cause that Istrongly feel must be advocatedand preserved. My focus this yearis entitled “Music Makes theDifference” regarding theimportance of preserving musicin the education system and thelifelong benefits that can be seenthroughout the business world,social realm, and our culturalclimate.

2007 Freemasonry MasonicWall Calendar

NationalAssociation of

Masonic ScoutersBeing Formed

Name: _________________________________Address: ________________________________City/St/Zip:______________________________# Calendars ______ Amount Enclosed:$ ________

UniversalCraftsmen Councilof Engineers, Inc.

This Council is composed of Master Masons ingood standing and is organized for the education

of engineers and craftsmen. Contact: Al Berry, GrandSecretary, 44960 State Highway 104, Chambersburg, IL62323.

Order yours to

day!

Powder River Lodge #135 sponsored a familyhayride on November 4th ,2006 at 6:00 p.m. The

event left the lodge and traveled down by the PowderRiver for a fun filled old fashion hayride. The group wasvery excited with afull moon andtemperatures inthe 40’s. Theyounger peopleaboard the ridejoined in song andlaughter, while theolder generationvisited about thenice evening andthe recentmoisture they had received. Participants on the rideranged in age from 18 months old to 76 plus???Numbering from 25 to 30 kids and 15 to 20 adults, agreat turn out for our first event.

Powder River Lodge #135 - Family HayrideUpon returning to the lodge the group was treated

to chili and hot chocolate. For dessert we had birthdaycake for it was Ron Talcotts, a longtime member of thelodge, 70th birthday.

The event came to a close about 9:30p.m. with all the masons very pleased abouttheir successful family hayride. Talk is thatthis could become a annual event in PowerRiver Lodge #135. A great time was had byall.


John Jay Hull was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, onChristmas Day, 1823, and was reared in that city. He

married there in 1845. His wife died. He went toCalifornia in 1852, remaining in that state six years.

He went to Pike’s Peak (Denver) in 1860. Probablyhe was in Colorado about three years. In the year ofour Lord 1863, in May,gold was discovered inAlder Creek as we know.The stampede to AlderCreek commenced in thefirst week of June.Following the news ofthis event, tremendous inthe history of Montana,John J. Hull was luredthither; the exact date ofhis arrival is not knownpositively, but it wasearly in Virginia City’s life.As we have seen fromthe narrative of BrotherPfouts, Virginia City wasa wild and dangerouscamp in the latter part ofthat year.

Brother Hull was agenial man, of a friendlydisposition which drew friends to him. Perhaps it wasthis proclivity that led him temporarily to engage in alawful business which some moral-minded peopletolerate, even patronize, but others do not favor.

Brother Hull himself, his associates affirmed, was aman of good habits, personally obedient to the moralcode, except as he may have been stigmatized by hissaid business. He solicited the patronage of“gentlemen” or those who behaved in a gentlemanlymanner. He permitted no rowdyism or boisterousconduct, nor excess, in his place of business.

He was personally a man of high honor andaltogether trustworthy. In fact, Governor Edgerton, heof unimpeachable character and conduct, named John J.Hull the first Treasurer of the Territory of Montana.

When the movement to institute a Masonic Lodge inVirginia City began, Brother Hull was one of itsproponents. When Virginia City U.D. was constituted,the Lodge became Virginia City Lodge No. 43 of thejurisdiction of Kansas, and in 1866 No. 1 of Montana.

Brother Hull was peerless in Montana as a Masonicritualist. Cornelius Hedges of Helena, who was there,was named senior grand warden, revealed it in his laterwritings. He would have preferred Leander “W. Frary,master of Montana Lodge, and he reported that theofficers of Helena Lodge could have elected either Hullor Frary, but his two wardens were convinced thatHull, the master ritualist, was the better of the two. Hullwas elected, five votes to four.

Brother Hull’s ritual work heavy influenced the workwe use today which is essentially Hull’s work mixedwith that promoted by Webb.

He was made a Mason in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,California in 1852. It will be remembered that BrotherPfouts, first Master of No. 1, left Virginia City in earlySeptember, 1865, maybe as early as the first to “go backto the States.” The records show that Brother Hullserved as acting W. M. of Virginia City Lodge fromSeptember 2,1865, until he was elected its Master onDecember 23, 1865. As Master, he participated in theformation of the Grand Lodge, January 24-29,1866, andwas elected its Grand Master.

Hands of The Workman

JOHN J. HULL - First Grand Master ofMontana, 1866 and (right) his gold jewel.

When the Grand Lodge met in its secondCommunication in October 1866, M.W. Brother Hullreported that he had granted dispensations for newlodges as follows: To Gallatin at Bozeman, February 17,1866; to Morning Star at Helena, February 24, 1866;to Diamond City in Confederate Gulch, February 24,

1866. Charters were voted tothese lodges as Morning Star No.5, Gallatin No. 6 and DiamondCity No. 7.

The Grand Master wasreelected —and he bears thatsole honor in Montana onOctober 2, 1866.

After his first election, GrandMaster Hull appointed, amongothers, two brothers who in timewere elected his successors: Rev.and Brother Hugh Duncan,

GrandChaplain,and BrotherNathaniel P.Langford,Grand Historian.

Upon his second election, he continued thesebrothers in their respective offices. In the meantime, thecity of Virginia had been granted a charter by the firstlegislature. When the time arrived, the opposingcandidates for mayor were Paris S. Pfouts and John J.Hull. Pfoutswrote of hisopponent: “Agentlemanwhosepopularity withall classes in thecity wasunequalled byany otherperson.”Nevertheless,political andother conditionsbrought aboutthe election ofPfouts.

In 1867,Thomas FrancisMeagher, theSecretary and

acting Governor,in his effort toward off anIndian war,appointed Mr.Hull Colonel and Commissary General.

Brother Hull remarried in 1877. Eventually helocated at Peoria, Illinois, at which city he departed thislife October 13, 1883.

After some years residence in Montana, probablyabout seven, Brother Hull went to Duluth, Minnesota.

There is in the Memorial case in the Masonic library inHelena, a silver snuffbox presented to Col. J. J. Hull byhis Duluth friends on Christmas Day, 1871.

More important is the elaborate solid gold jewelpresented by the Grand Lodge of Montana to M. W.John J. Hull, Grand Master. In 1929, June J. Hull-Bird thedaughter of John J. Hull presented her fathers goldjewel to the Grand Lodge to be displayed in theMuseum. Also, presented and on display in the MontanaMasonic Museum is a square and compass jewelpresented by June J. Bird and her husband BrotherWilliam Bird that had been worn by General Lafayette.

Wilbur Fisk SandersFirst Grand Secretary of Montana, 1866

Wilber Fisk Sanders was born in Ohio in 1834. Col.Wilbur F. Sanders had served as an adjutant in theUnion Army during the early part of the Civil War buthealth problems forced him to resign his commission in1862. He arrived in the Territory of Idaho (to becomeMontana Territory) in September of 1863. When themovement to institute a Masonic Lodge in Virginia Citybegan, Brother Sanders was also one of its proponents.When Virginia City U.D. was constituted, the Lodgebecame Virginia City Lodge No. 43 of the jurisdiction ofKansas, and in 1866 No. 1 of Montana. BrotherSanders was elected as the first Grand Secretary onJanuary 26, 1866. Two years later he was named GrandMaster, the third to hold the office.

Col. Sanders, also made his impact on Montana’shistory. Sanders was an ambitious and courageousyoung attorney. Sanders was one of the 12 whoorganized the Vigilantes. He was the official prosecutor.The trial of the first of the notorious road agents andmurderers, George Ives, was held in Virginia City onDecember 21, 1863. Colonel Sanders was in town atthe time and was appointed prosecuting attorney bythe miners’ court. He successfully prosecuted Ives andobtained a conviction although threats of reprisal byIves’ friends were spoken freely. After the conviction, it

was Sanders’ motion that thesentence be carried outimmediately, rather than waitinguntil the next day, even thoughdarkness had fallen. Ives was takento a partially completed houseselected for the site of executionand hanged that same evening.The famed quote, “Men do yourduty,” is attributed to Sanders.

Brother Wilber F. Sanders wasdescribed as follows “Sanders,bold and resolute, a master orator,became the hero of this epochaltrial held in the open air alongMain Street of Nevada City on theshort December days – 20-21.The closing argument made to the

Wilbur Fisk SandersFirst Grand Secretary of Montana,

1866

Hands cont’d next page


Photos by W. Bro.George Lane - BB#41

LeLewis Apron returwis Apron returns homens home

Daughters of the Nile, Patrol Drummers, Sapphira Temple No.79. Picturedfrom left to right: Shirley Allen, Jeanette VanMeter, Sarah Herold, Nancy

Fuller

jury on Forefathers’ Day, 1863, those who heard it saidfor many years (whenever they had occasion to speakof it) was the greatest speech ever delivered inMontana. It laid the cornerstone of justice for theTerritory to be.”

Wilbur F. Sanders made many other contributions tothe State of Montana during his lifetime. When Montanabecame a Territory in May of 1864, Sidney Edgertonwas named governor. Indian troubles forced him tocreate a militia and he appointed Sanders a Colonel inthe new military organization. He was correspondingsecretary to the Society of Montana Pioneers when itwas formed December 11, 1864; was elected firstchairman of the Montana Bar Association when it wasorganized in January, 1865; and when the formation of

the Montana Historical Society was authorized onFebruary 25, 1865, he was elected president pro tem.

He held that office until February 1, 1890, a periodof twenty-five years. The Republicans of both houses ofthe newly formed State of Montana legislature electedhim U. S. Senator on December 31, 1889. At that timesenators were selected by the state legislature. InMontana the Democrats and Republicans split into twogroups that year, each selecting a set of senators, butthe election of Sanders and his running mate, T. C.Power, was upheld by the U. S. Congress. ColonelSanders died on July 7, 1905 at his home in Helena.

The accomplishments add to the importance of thehouse Sanders built for himself and his family. Their firsthome was in Bannack, but later they moved to Virginia

Hands cont’d from previous page

WGM Tom Valente recited the WhiteLeather Apron lecture

Pictured from left to right: Reid Gardiner, Grand Secretary and Curator of the Museum; DeputyGrand Master David Nielsen;Honorable James E. Smith, Mayor of Helena; Past Grand Master

Alan Harkins; and WGM Tom Valente

A hardy welcome and introductions by Reid Gardiner,Grand Secretary and Curator of the Museum.

A nice crowd gathered to welcome home the Lewis Apronafter its long journey..

City. An entry in Mrs. Sanders’ diary dated July 14,1867, reveals that she had slept for the first time intheir new home on Idaho Street. They remained inVirginia City until the 1870’s, when the Sanders familymoved to Helena. Their new three-story home was builtin 1875.

Colonel Sanders gained national prominence as aVigilante, lawyer, legislator,businessman and politician.The Past Grand Master jewelof Brother Sanders is ondisplay within the MontanaMasonic Museum.


Lost Brothers

Whitefish Lodge hasbroken through the centurybarrier. On Tuesday evening, September 19,

2006, exactly 100 yearsfrom the date the the Lodgewas issued it’s charter, agroup of 40 members andguests celebrated theoccasion.

MWGM Thomas Valenteand his lady Barbara were inattendance for thecelebration and dinner. PGM“Doc” Harkins was also aguest. After a very niceprime rib dinner,entertainment was providedby western artist Gene Gordner with his reditions ofwestern songs. MWGM Valente presented to WhitefishLodge PM Carl Denny his PM apron with thecongratualtions for the past successful year. BrotherDon Slaybaugh, using the very first minutes book,presented a short history of the beginning of the Lodge.

Worshipful MasterShawn Emmett emceed

the celebration.

Grand Lodge members pose for pictures at the 100th

anniversary celebration at Ponemah Lodge #63.

Whitefish Lodge No. 64Celebrates 100 Years

Anderson, James G. 113

Anderson, Richard D. 110

Anderson, Scott T. 34

Baker, Robert N. 49

Boettger, Peter R. 37

Calvert, Lorne M. 49

Carlson, Rodney C. 149

Carter, Thomas Richard 42

Clark, James R.M. 122

Cooper, James D. 29

Courtney, Shane M. 6

DeForrest, Bryan L. 38

DeLong, Darcy G. 33

Dostal, Vance L. 128

Duffy, James V. 58

Eichel, James Howard 113

Eldred, Benjamin Eugene 149

Elliot, Robert A. 71

Endy, Jr., William R. 22

Fagenstrom, Rory C. 105

Featherly, Kenith R. 16

Fish, Giles P. 34

Fisher, Edgar R. 90

Foust, Coury W. 49

Girvin, Charels A 37

Glasgow, Theodore Eugene 149

Gonzalo, Anthony Richard 13

Hayden, Archie W. 16

Hilliard, Ryan J. 29

Holder, Michael J. 42

Howard, Jack L 151

Hughes, Jr., John A 98

Johnson, Eugene L. 49

Keller, Kent P. 34

Lamb, Donald D 84

McDonald, Hilliard 144

McGinnis, Dean M. 29

Moore, John 13

Myers, Rex C. 16

Nielsen, Erik P. 5

Olsen, lbert D. 22

Pasieka, Gary 113

Puyear, Donald L. 28

Schindler, Daniel D. 1

Schmidt, Edward 51

Shaurette, L. Dexter 85

Shaw, James N. 29

Smith, Jeffrey S. 155

Stewart, Samuel P. 3

Swingen, Larry G. 57

Thiede, Terry A. 42

Tinnes, Harvey D. 84

Young, Jeffery L. 33

Wilson, Jr., Norman D 128

TTTTThe following Lodges have lost track of these members of their Lodge. If you know where any of these Brothers are or their U.S.Postal address PLEASE send it to the Grand Secretary and the Lodge Secretary.

I have been a member of Eastern Star for 32 years. Iwas initiated in Fidelity Chapter #18 in Choteau

and served as Worthy Matron 3 times. I became a dualmember of Miriam Chapter#1 when we moved toHelena in 1990. I am amajority Rainbow Girl ofChoteau Assembly #54, ama recipient of the GrandCross of Color and servedas Mother Advisor of theChoteau Assembly. Ienjoyed very much workingwith the youth…they aremost definitely the stars ofour future.

I am very honored to beserving as Worthy GrandMatron for the 2006-2007year. Our year is entitled “Catch a Rising Star”. WGPNeil McGill, a member of Electa Chapter #7 inMissoula, and I believe that the Eastern Star Family willall support us this year by looking for new members,then “catching” them and helping them to “rise” up toall that an Eastern Star member can be. We ask thateach member remember to “fill your pot of gold” by“catching a rising Star” during this year.

Our motto is “May your right hand always bestretched out in friendship….but, never in want. OurAim – To make NEW friends by increasing ourmembership….but, to keep the OLD….one is Silverand the other Gold. Our theme – “SEW seeds ofFriendship”. S for SEEK out new members; E forENCOURAGE them to join and W for WORK togetherfor the good of our Order. My scripture is Genesis9:12-13: “And God said, This is the sign of thecovenant which I make between me and you and everyliving creature that is with you for all futuregenerations. I set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be asign of the covenant between me and the earth.”

The Worthy Grand Patron’s scripture is Proverbs3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and leannot unto thine own understanding. In all thy waysacknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” OurIrish Blessing – “May there always be work for yourhands to do. May your purse always hold a coin or

two. May the sun always shine on your window pane.May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain. May thehand of a friend always be near you. May God fill your

heart with gladness to cheer you.Our flowers arecarnations (any color) and the shamrock.

As always, one of our goals is to increase ourmembership; but wewould also like to see thecurrent membershipbecome more active. Wechallenged each memberof the Grand Chapter tofind what they love mostabout Eastern Star –whether it be theritualistic work, thefellowship, the charitablework we do, or theFOOD - and asked that

they share that love, and their talents, with othermembers and prospective members.

Our major fund raiser this year will be the appealsletter and raffle which will fund the Cinderella Shop,the Masonic Home Fund, the Cancer Fund and theHeart Fund. We will also be selling custom designedritual covers, made by members of my chapters, withthe proceeds benefiting our Youth Groups; note cardswith Montana scenery with the proceeds going toElecta’s Cup Fund; and American Flag Magnets with theproceeds going to the ESTARL Fund.

I look forward to working with the leaders andmembers of our Masonic Family. Together we can keepthe golden links of friendship strong and allow ourOrders to grow and prosper.

Jeanine Cole, Worthy Grand Matron

Grand Chapter of Montana, Order of the Eastern Star

The Whitefish lodge was chartered with 24 chartermembers. An interesting item - the cost of a street light

outside the Masonic Hall atthat time was 25 cents amonth. Guests for theevening included visitorsfrom lodges in Kalispell,Columbia Falls, Eureka andFernie, BC.

Jeanine Cole, Worthy Grand Matron 2006-2007

Jeanine Cole, WorthyGrand Matron Neil McGill, Worthy

Grand Patron


Our ancient operative brethren desired tobecome Masters so that, when theytraveled in foreign countries, they could still

practice their craft. Speculative Freemasons still desireto “travel in foreign countries” and study their craftthat they may receive such instruction as will enablethem to do so, and when traveling, to receive aMaster’s Wages.

But the “Foreign Countries” do not mean to us thevarious geographical and political divisions of the OldWorld, nor do we use the Word we learn as a means ofidentification to enable us to build material templesand receive coin of the realm for our labor. “ForeignCountries” is to us a symbol.

Like all the rest of the symbols, it has more than oneinterpretation; but, unlike many, none of these is verydifficult to trace or understand.

Freemasonry itself is the first “foreign country” inwhich the initiate will travel; a world as different fromthe familiar workaday world, as France is different fromEngland, or Belgium from Greece. Everything isdifferent in the Masonic world; the standards aredifferent, the “Money” is different, the ideas aredifferent. In the familiar world, money, place andpower are the standards by which we judge ourfellows. In the fraternity all are on the level, and thereare neither rich nor poor. In the world outside thereare laws to prevent, and police and penalties to enforceobedience; in the fraternity the laws are not “thou shaltnot” but “thou shalt” and the fundamental of them allis the golden rule, the law of brotherly love. Menconform to the laws of Freemasonry not because theymust but because they will. Surely such a land is a“foreign country” to the stranger within its borders;and the visitor must study it, learn its language and itscustoms, if he is to enjoy it.

Many learn but a few phrases and only enough of itscustoms to conform. There are thousands of Americanswho went all over France during the war with a pack ofcigarettes, a friendly smile and “no comprende!” astheir sole knowledge of the language; but did they learnto know France? A Lodge member may know the wordsof the opening and closing and how to act in a lodge,learn to call his fellows “brother” and pay his dues; butwill that get him all there is in the foreign country inwhich he finds him-self?

America north and south is a mighty continent . . . Ithas many countries. To know one is not to know all. The man at home in Mexico will find Newfoundlandstrange, and the Canadian will not feel at home in

Foreign CountriesChile if he knows nothing of that country.

So it is with the vast continent of Freemasonry. It hasmany “foreign countries within it; and he is the wiseand happy Freemason who works patiently at thepleasant task of visiting and studying them. There arethe foreign countries of philosophy, of jurisprudenceand of history. No Freemason is really worthy of thename who does notunderstandsomething of how hisnew land is governed,of what it stands forand why.

And there is theforeign country ofSymbolism of whichthis little book is farless a guide than a gateway.

As a Master Mason, a man has the right to travel inall the foreign countries of Freemasonry. There is noneto say him nay. If he will but “learn the work” and keephimself in good standing, he may visit where he will. Butit is not within the door of other lodges than his ownthat he will find the boundary line and the guide postsof those truly Masonic “Foreign Countries” to which hehas been given the passport by his brethren. He willfind gateways to those lands in the library, in the studyclub, in books and magazines; and, most and best of all,in the quiet hour alone, when what he has read andlearned comes back to him to be pondered over andthought through. The “foreign country” of symbolismhas engaged the thoughtful and serious considerationof hundreds of able Masonic students, as has that ofthe history of our Order. Not to visit them both; aye,not to make oneself a citizen of them both, is to refusethe privileges one has sought and labored to obtain.One asks for a petition, prays one’s friend to take it tohis lodge, knocks on the door, takes obligations, worksto learn and finally receives the Master’s Degree. Onereceives it, struggles for it, hopes for it . . . why? Thatone may travel in the far lands and receive the rewardthere awaiting. .

Then why hesitate? Why wait? Why put it off? Whyallow others to pass on and gain; while one stands, thegate open, the new land beckoning, and all the Masonicworld to see?

That is the symbolism of the “foreign countries” . . . that is the meaning of the phrase which once meant, tooperative Masons, exactly what it says. To theFreemason who reads it aright it is a clarion call to

action, to study, to an earnest pressing forward on thenew highway. For time is short and the night comethwhen no man can work!

To the young Freemason, particularly, is the symbol aringing appeal. To those who are old in the Craft, whohave set their pace, determined their course andbecome satisfied with all they have managed to learn of

the fraternity, withwhat little they havebeen able to take fromit, “foreign countries”means countrieswhich are foreign andnothing more. But tothe young man juststarting out as aFreemason . . . Oh, mybrother, heed you the

symbolism of the phrase and make your entry throughthe gateway, your limbs strong to travel, your mindopen to learn. For if you truly travel in the Masonicforeign countries, you will receive Master’s Wagesbeyond your greatest expectations. The way is open tothe Freemason; not an easy way, perhaps, or a shortway, but a clear way. Not for the old Mason, the manset in his ways, the man content with the literalmeaning of the words, the “book Mason,” the pin-wearer, not for them the foreign countries ofsymbolism, and Masonic knowledge.

But you, you who are new, you to whomFreemasonry is yet a wonder and a vision. a mysteryand a glory . . . for you the gate is wide, for you thepath is clear; for you the foreign countries beckon . . .hang you not back!

For at the end of the journey, when the last foreigncountry of Freemasonry has been traveled and learnedand loved, you shall come to a new gate, above whichthere is a new name written . . . and when you haveread it you will know the True Word of a Master Mason.

By Carl H. Claudy. A reprint of Chapter XXX of “ForeignCountries,” published and copyrighted by the MasonicService association in 1925.

Tom LundTom LundTom LundTom LundTom Lund Larry LundLarry LundLarry LundLarry LundLarry LundTom: (406) 363-8054 E-mail [email protected]

Larry : (406) 363-8053

E-mail [email protected]

Coldwell BankerWestern States Associates

115 Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1250

For at the end of the journey, when the lastforeign country of Freemasonry has been

traveled and learned and loved, you shall cometo a new gate, above which there is a new

name written . . . and when you have read ityou will know the True Word of a Master

Mason.


How often have we sat in Lodge during a degreeand wondered about the thoughts of a

candidate?

The first thing that comes to my mind is thewonderment that must be going through his headespecially in the first degree. Anyone who has everserved as a Marshall or Steward must have observedthe tension in the eyes and face of the candidate andthis is only the beginning. To say that the candidate isconcerned is really an understatement of fact.

Then comes thedegree itself, lofty andprayerful words aredelivered in a languagefrom the time ofShakespeare. A nobleintent to be sure, butunder the circumstances of the candidate, one mustwonder at the questions flooding the initiate’s mind.Much is made clear to the candidate at the end of thedegree, but just about the time he is feelingcomfortable, he is sat in a chair and lectured in similarlanguage as before.

Now think about what is going on in the candidate’shead -truly think about it. The candidate has just hadan extraordinary experience. Words and concepts havebeen told to him in a fast and puzzling manner. Anexplanation is given him in an unusual manner andfashion, and after about an hour he is seated among hisnew friends eating pie.

We have all gone through the same thing, and as faras I know, none have suffered the worst for it. Ourexperiences are our own, and while we are pleased tobecome a Mason and proud to be a member of thefraternity, what happens next? What has the candidateobtained, besides good feelings, that he can take withhim?

It is after the pie and coffee that the lessons ofFreemasonry are taught to the candidate. If theselessons are delayed, if contact with the candidate is notmaintained, if a strong program of Masonic educationis not implemented, then the chances of losing thatcandidate are greatly increased.

Let’s face it, the initiatic experience is thecornerstone of Freemasonry. Education is thesuperstructure erected after the cornerstone.Education is the time to assimilate the new brother

into the lodge and into thefraternity. The superstructure ofa Masons’s Masonic edifice mustnot be left to chance. It is theduty of the lodge, far greaterthan laying the comerstone, toimplement the building of that

superstructure. It may even be more important thanthe conferral.

The words that were so profound when spoken atconferral must be explained and discussed with thecandidate. It is the time to form and shape the Mason.Norm Leeper, Editor

Southern California Research Lodge F&AM

Thoughts of a Candidate

It is after the pie and coffee that the

lessons of Freemasonry are taught to the

candidate.

Submission Deadline forMarch, 2007

Montana Masonic Newsis February 23, 2007(see page 2 for details)

My Brethren, the roll of the workmen has been called, and one more Master Mason has not answered to his name, He has laid downthe working tools of the Craft and with them he has left that mortal part for which he no longer has use.

His labours here below have taught him to divest his heart and conscience of the vices and superfluities of life, thereby fitting hismind as a living stone for that spiritual building—that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

Strengthened in his labours hereby faith in God, and, confident of expectation of immortality, he has sought admission to the CelestialLodge above. Author unknown

Celestial Lodge

October through November 2006

Bruce H. Johnston Morning Star No. 5 23 October

Chris H. Gardner Morning Star No. 5 3 October

John P. Campbell Morning Star No. 5 30 April

Emmett H. Haugen Deer Lodge 14 UNK

Donald G. Nyquist Butte No. 22 28 March

J. Ralph Knuckey Butte No. 22 19 September

Reuben P. Rudy, Jr. Ashlar No. 29 19 April

James R. Bailey Livingston No. 32 16 October

Orville W. Chigbrow Cascade No. 34 13 October

Milton C. Morgan, Sr. Cascade No. 34 26 June

Thorwald E. Fiveland Star In The West No. 40 July 2005

Ronald Robertson Star In The West No. 40 12 October

Clarence D. Fuhrman North Star No. 46 22 October

Harold E. Clouse Doric No. 53 5 June

Raymond E. Burdge Rrimrock No. 149 26 June

Howey W. Nye Gallatin No. 6 07 October

William H. Hetz Flint Creek No. 11 23 October

Francis J.T. Cann Butte No. 22 17 September

Clyde Peale, Jr. Mount Moriah No. 24 22 October

John W. McClintic Ionic No. 38 15 October

Robert W. MCCallum Columbia Falls No. 89 24 October

George W. McCallum Hot Springs No. 153 30 October

John Pat Mulcare Lincoln 157 20 November

If you are aware of a fellow brother who has passed away, please email theinformation to rgardner@ or complete this form and mail to:

Montana Grand Lodge PO Box 1158 Helena, MT 59604.

Deceased: ________________________________________________

Lodge: ___________________________________________________

Answer:Radersburg, Montana


If you are one of those who go south (or elsewhere) forthe winter, you will need to make arrangements to haveyour copy of the Montana Masonic News forwarded toyou from the Post Office or by a friend. The Montana

Masonic News mail list is too extensive to keepchanging addresses back and forth. You will be allowed

only one US Mail address.

AttentionSnow Birds

Sudoku Puzzle

Moved?Let us know your new address:

Name:_______________________________________________

OldAddress:__________________________________________

City/St/Zip:____________________________________________

NEWAddress:_________________________________________

City/St/Zip____________________________________________

George Westlake 6 24-Oct

James N. Shaw 29 21-Apr

Herman B. Collins 35 3-Oct

Robert Moran 40 12-Oct

Earl M. Pruyn 49 13-Oct

Charles E. Valach 49 13-Oct

Edward O. Yedlicka 66 22-Oct

Kenneth M. Beven 72 8-Oct

Clayton R. Sheets 72 8-Oct

Richard A. Hemphill 122 23-Oct

50 Year MembersOctober, November & December, 2006

For those Lodges wishing to promote their lodge in local newspapers youcan request “free” camera-ready ad slicks from the Grand Lodge Office. These

ad slicks were developed by the Masonic Information Center and areintended to give the public a view of several aspects of the Masonic

Fraternity. There are six different ad slicks. There is space for the Lodge nameor other contact information to be included. What a great way to promote

Freemasonry in your home town.

Masonic Public Awareness

He’s Part of an Even Larger Family

A family of men who call each other “Brother.”.Freemasons are reliable, trustworthy men who believe in

traditional values and live by them.To learn more about Freemasonry call or write:

Grand Lodge of Montana406-442-7774

[email protected]

Alexander Denson, Jr 135 23-Oct

John W. Trickel 155 13-Oct

Milton L. VanCamp 155 13-Oct

William R. Cainan 3 1-Nov

Herman L. Hauck,Jr 11 14-Nov

Clyde Little, Jr. 17 10-Nov

Allan Baynard 21 13-Nov

Russell Dugdale 22 13-Nov

Willis K. Wuerthner 34 17-Nov

Arnold J. Case 49 17-Nov

Roger F. Gowdey 64 10-Nov

William F. Peck 69 14-Nov

Daniel L. Jensen 96 20-Nov

Raymond E. Burdge 149 28-Nov

Thomas W. Manaras 55 13-Dec

Donald T. Shankle 55 20-Dec

George Farias 66 12-Dec

Jack H. Foster 69 17-Dec

Merrill S. Hawley 80 21-Dec

Sudoku Answer


Calendar of Events

Dec 1 Fri 1:00p Grand Lodge Officers Meeting @ Bozeman

Dec 2 Sat 9:00a Grand Lodge Officers Meeting @ Bozeman

Dec 9 Sat 12:00 pm Sagebrush District Meeting @ Jordan

Dec 13 Wed 7:30p GM Visit Gallatin #6 @ Bozeman

Dec 16 Sat York Rite Christmas Observance - Billings

Dec 18 Mon 7:30p GM Visit Corinthian #72 @ Laurel

Dec 22 Fri Grand Lodge Office Closed

Dec 24 Sun Christmas Eve

Dec 25 Mon Christmas (Fed) Grand Lodge Office Closed

Dec 26 Tue Grand Lodge Office Closed

Dec 30 Sat HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS DUE PRIOR TO 1 APRIL

Jan 1 Mon January is St’s John Observance Month

Al Bedoo Shrine Installation

Grand Lodge Office Closed

Jan 6 Sat Installation Algeria

Jan 13 Sat Installation Bagdad Shrine

Jan 25 Thu Grand Lodge of Colorado, Denver

Jan 26 Fri Grand Lodge of Colorado, Denver

Jan 27 Sat Grand Lodge of Colorado, Denver

Annual Returns due before March 15

Resolutions and Committee Reports are due to Grand Lodge,24 Feb

February is Americanism Observance Month

December 2006

January 2007

This stein is a ceramic white shell body that measures 7¼” tall by 4" at the base and 3" at the lid. This stein has aceramic insert lid that says Master Mason of the BlueLodge. The stein is decorated withvarious Masonic symbols and onone side has a poem called “A TrueMason”.

The Price is $59.95, which includesshipping and insurance. If youmention seeing this ad in theMontana Masonic News a donationof $7.00 will be send to our GrandLodge for the charities supportedby the Montana MasonicFoundation.

Blue Lodge - Master Mason SteinGreat Gift Idea for Christmas

Send order to: Stanley C. Buz, PO Box 702,Whitehall, PA 18052.

Name: _______________________________________________

Shipping address: _____________________________________

City/St/Zip:____________________________________________

Stein ($59.95ea) : _______ (Amount enclosed)_____________

February 2007Feb 1- 3 Thu Grand Lodge of Utah, Salt Lake City

Grand Lodge of Alaska

Grand Lodge of Nebraska

Guidelines for Grand Master’s One-Day Classes 2006 - 2007

Feb 10 Sat GM Class @ Great Falls 7:30 am

Must be EA. Request 21 Days in advance, 12+ Candidates

Feb 17-20 Sat GM & GS conference @ Portland

Feb 24 Sat Grand Lodge

The Grand Lodge of Montana has been conducting one-day classes (formerlycalled Occasional Lodges) in Montana since 1995. Many good Masons havebeen brought into the Craft through those classes, men whose work

schedules would have made it extremely difficult for them to experience the degreesin the traditional manner. The one-day classes also have been a valuable tool forthose lodges that have lost the ability to confer degrees because of the advanced ageor deaths of their ritualists.

This year MWGM Valente will continue to provide this tool to the Craft. At the sametime, the Grand Master want’s to raise the standard and give the candidates the bestpossible experience when they receive the degrees of Masonry. Therefore, GrandMaster’s Classes will be conducted in the following manner during this Masonic year:

There will be four Grand Master’s Classes:

February 10 in Great Falls,

March 10 in Drummond,

April 21 in Lewistown

May 19 in a location in eastern Montana to be determined.

The following guidelines are applicable to the classes in February, March andMay: 1. The “Request for Conferral of Degrees” form for each candidate must be inthe hands of the Grand Secretary not later than twenty-one days prior to thescheduled class. If there are not twelve or more confirmed candidates by thedeadline, the class will be cancelled. It takes at least three weeks to organize andrecruit qualified brothers and back-ups for the roles in the degree teams. I want tobe sure that the brothers organizing the degree teams have enough time toaccomplish what must be done. I also do not want them to expend the energyorganizing degree teams, only to have the class cancelled at the last minute becauseof an insufficient number of candidates.

2. All candidates must have received the Entered Apprentice degree in their motherlodge or in another lodge by courtesy work, and have passed proficiency in the firstdegree, prior to coming to the Grand Master’s class. Only the Fellowcraft and MasterMason degrees will be conferred during the Grand Master’s class. This requirement isintended to accomplish two goals. First, every candidate will have the opportunity toexperience a degree, including being guided about the lodge hoodwinked. Secondly,every candidate will have the opportunity to sit in and bond with his lodge before hebecomes part of a large Grand Master’s class, rather than afterward.

The above restrictions are not applicable for the class in April. The “Request forConferral of Degrees” form still must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary notlater than twenty-one days prior to the class. However, there will be no minimumnumber of candidates for the April class; this class will be conducted regardless of thenumber of candidates. In addition, the Entered Apprentice Degree will be conferredin this class. If a lodge cannot confer the first degree on their candidates for anyreason, those candidates should be brought to the April class.

Worshipful Masters need to ensure that a mentor accompanies each of their

candidates. The role of mentor is extremely important, and using a total strangerfrom another lodge as mentor takes away much of the bonding that is necessary forthe candidate to feel welcome and at ease.

Finally, please inform all members of your Lodge that appropriate attire forcandidates, mentors, and sideliners is coat and tie.

These guidelines were provided five months before the first class to each LodgeSecretary and provided during each District Meeting. With proper prior planning,these new restrictions should not interfere with your bringing candidates to any ofthe Grand Master’s classes.

All previous versions of the Request to Confer Degrees for One Day or GrandMasters Class are superseded and the new form Request to Confer Degrees forGrand Masters Class can be obtained from your Lodge Secretary, District Officer orthe Grand Secretary.

lewis apron returns home

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