missouri freemason magazine - v51n02 - 2006 spring

T H E M I S S O U R I

FREEMASONVolume 51 No. 2 SPRING 2006

©

Official Publication of theGrand Lodge of Missouri A.F.&A.M.

34 Spring 2006 THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

the missouri freemasonVOL. 51 NO. 2 Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri SPRING 2006

Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications

©

contents35 Grand Master’s Message36 A Place to Call Home37 Making Decisions about

your Legacy. . .39 Masons Helping Masons

Helping Missouri40 Outreach Changing Lives

in 2005!41 Senior Grand Warden42 Junior Grand Warden43 Senior Grand Deacon44 The Masonic Bodies of

Weston PerformCommunity Service inDecember

45 WOOF!46 There Are No Strangers47 Funeral Home Dedication48 Alphonse Cerza50 Ritual Unity51 A Chance To CHIP In and

Make a Difference52 Freemasons for...WHAT?!54 Masonic Service Awards58 The Work of our Craft64 “All the Implements of

Masonry Indiscriminately...”

Every summer, like other Lodges, my home Lodge (Liberty #31) hosts acookout at the Masonic Home. Under the direction of our Masonic HomeRep and cook extraordinaire John "Hoot" Gibson, we put on an affair toremember. It's always in the evening, though; never at noon. I always won-dered why. John has shed some light on this mystery. He says if we serve abig meal at noon, the residents have to exercise afterwards. If it's in theevening, they don't. Those folks not only know how to have a good time,they know how to beat the system.

This issue sheds some additional light on things going on at the Mason-ic Home. Check out the information about the new Masonic Home exhibitrunning throughout 2000 in Columbia, the schedule of Masonic Home pre-sentations, information on the Outreach program and much more. Oh, anddon't forget to reserve September 11 for the Leaves of Autumn Golf Tour-nament this fall.

While many Brothers belong to the Eastern Star, it remains somethingthat others of us do not know a lot about. In this edition of the MissouriFreemason, we explore the beliefs, charities and other aspects of "the largestfraternal organization in the world to which both men and women maybelong."

You may have noticed, the Missouri Freemason has a new editor. I amgrateful to the members of the Grand Line and Ron Miller for this incredibleopportunity to contribute to the craft. I want to extend my sincere thanks tothe Grand Lodge staff and Brothers who have helped with this issue, writtenarticles and offered help in the future. Were I to attempt to name them Iundoubtedly would miss someone. The previous editor asked me to play itlow-key when it came to mentioning him or his accomplishments. I object-ed; he insisted. I will therefore honor his request. If you happen to see him,tell him what a great job he did.

FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD

Steve Harrison, Editor

Faternally,

Committee on Masonic PublicationsJohn M. Nations, Grand MasterM. Robert Berger, Deputy Grand MasterBruce R. Austin, Senior Grand WardenRocky E. Weaver, Junior Grand WardenRonald D. Miller, Grand SecretaryE. Otha Wingo

Ex-Officio MemberSteven L. Harrison, Editor, THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

EditorSteven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120Kearney, MO 64060-1120816-628-6562 / Call for [email protected]

The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is the officialpublication of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Free andAccepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and ispublished four times yearly. Articles to be consideredfor publication should be submitted to The MissouriFreemason, P.O. Box 44, Kirksville, Missouri 63501-0044, not later than the first day of the monthpreceding publication in February, May, August, andNovember.

Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed inthis magazine are those of the authors and do notnecessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the GrandLodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editor reserves theright due to limitations of space, to accept, reject,subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication.

OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS: Grand Lodge of Missouri,6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535. Printed by Tribune Publishing Co., Columbia,Missouri. Periodicals Postage paid at Columbia,Missouri.

POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 toGrand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B,Columbia, MO 65202-6535.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Missouri Freemason is mailed toevery member of this Masonic Jurisdiction without charge.Domestic subscriptions elsewhere are $8.00 annually.

PERMISSION TO REPRINT: All recognized Masonicpublications have permission to reprint original articlesfrom The Missouri Freemason with credit to the authorand the publication.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS (Important): Whenever amember changes his mailing address without notifyinghis Lodge Secretary and a mailing of the Freemasonmagazine occurs, the Post Office charges the GrandLodge 50¢ per undeliverable Freemason.

PLEASE, contact your Lodge Secretary with youraddress change so that the Grand Lodge can then benotified.

GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURIINTERNET ADDRESSES

E-Mail to the Grand Lodge [email protected]

The Grand Lodge web pagewww.momason.org

Phone: 573-474-8561

Please note the change of addressfor the Missouri Freemason: P.O. Box1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON Spring 2006 35

As the Freemason reaches outto all of you, we are well into a yearin which our attention and ourenergies are devoted to the contin-uing rejuvenation of Masonrythroughout the State of Missouri.From the Platte region to the bootheel, men are being drawn into ourLodges in numbers that we haven'tseen in more than a generation. Inall my travels around the state inthe past few months, I hear againand again how more petitions arebeing received and more Degreework is being performed than atany time in recent memory.

The rejuvenation of our Frater-nity in so many areas of our statecoincides with one of my mostimportant priorities as your GrandMaster: to make our Lodges andour members more active andmore visible leaders in our commu-nities.

It has long seemed to me thatthe great works of our Fraternity gounnoticed by the general public notbecause the public is indifferent,but because we have been keepingour good works from the publicattention for too long. In so manyof our communities the Lodge Hallis one of the most prominent struc-tures and is often located at or nearthe center of town. But in far toomany instances in recent decades,only a tiny portion of the generalpublic had so much as a remotenotion of who the Masons are andwhat a difference for the betterthey can make in a community.This is beginning to change.

In a world where there isrelentless competition for the pub-lic attention, Lodges across ourstate are again putting themselvesin the forefront in their communi-ties and are again seeing the manybenefits of doing so. Members arejoining community organizations

again, volunteering their time forcivic endeavors, and lending amuch-needed helping hand notjust to the Members of the Lodge,but also to the public in general.Predictably, the public, in turn, isbecoming reacquainted with theFraternity and rediscovering howbeneficial our Fraternity is for everycommunity and every person ittouches.

The connection between com-munity service and Masonry is sosimple, yet for too long it has beenoverlooked. When one considersthat this country was foundedlargely by Masons who believeddeeply in the principles of our Fra-ternity and wrote those principlesinto the founding documents of ourcountry, it takes precious littleimagination to understand why theUnited States is the greatest coun-try the world has known. Belief inGod. Belief in freedom. Belief inbrotherly love. Belief in truth.These are as timeless as they areperfect.

With such basic and timelessprinciples as a cornerstone, ourforefathers founded what is, in fact,

the first country based on the greattruth that the rights of man comenot from the beneficence of gov-ernment, but directly from thehand of God. These beliefs inspiredthis country, and this country hasbecome the beacon of hope andfreedom around the world. Wedare never forget that we are thebeneficiaries of the commitmentand sacrifices of that revolutionarygeneration, and every generationsince who have given "the last fullmeasure of devotion" in defense ofthese great principles.

The principles that inspired ourforefathers continue to inspire ustoday. For centuries, the Masonshave been leaders around theworld and our commitment and ourdesire to lead our communities andour world so that our children andgrandchildren live in a better worldthan the one we have now shouldburn inside each one of us. Unlikethe heroes from long ago, we arenot called upon to lead a revolutionto free our country from tyranny,but we are called upon to stand upeveryday and be counted for allthat is good and right and todefend our principles to the lastman. When we do so, we improveour lives, our families, our commu-nities, and our world. It has beenour calling for more than two cen-turies, and it will be our calling tothe last generation.

Fraternally,

John M. NationsGrand Master


Masonic Home Area MeetingsFirst and Foremost I want to thank everyone for attending the NEW Masonic Home Area Meetings. I know

the switch to this new format is going to take some time to get used to, but I truly feel these meetings can be justas successful as our other format. It will take time and your support in order to make this transition a successfulone. It will be through your determination and ours that these meetings will provide even more individuals withthe information on the Masonic Home of Missouri. I ask that as many individuals, wives, widows, Eastern StarMembers and family members attend as possible and when in attendance not just to listen for yourself but listenfor those who are unable to be there. I also want to encourage that everyone take at least one additional packethome to share with someone that was unable to attend the program.

I want to remind everyone that there will be a light dinner, which will start at 6:00 p.m. and our programwill begin at 6:30. This informational session will last approximately 40 minutes depending on questions, but Iguarantee almost everyone will leave with a better understanding of the Masonic Home and the programs it hasto offer to its members. Please review the listing (see p. 39) of the places, dates and areas we will be in and pleasenever hesitate to contact us with questions you may have.

Respectfully,Sara SnodderleyDirector of Public Relations Masonic Home of Missouri

The Masonic Home of Mis-souri’s Residential Living Facility inKansas City is a place for many ofour Masonic Family to call home.This facility provides them with allthe com-forts ofHome andmore.

O u rM a s o n i cHome is aresidentialliving facili-ty that islocated onBannister Rd in Kansas City Mis-souri. This facility offers our resi-dents the relaxation and rest theydeserve, while maintaining a busyactivity schedule for those individu-als that want to be on the go. Cur-rently there are 29 residents resid-ing at our Masonic Home in KansasCity, which only leaves 2 privaterooms and 1 suite left available.

This facility is available to MissouriMaster Masons, their wives, wid-ows and Female members of theOrder of the Eastern Star. In addi-tion Masons and Eastern Star mem-

bers can make application on behalfof their father, mother, step-father,step-mother, sister or brother forresidency at the Masonic Home asa private pay resident only.Masons and Eastern Star Ladiesmay live there as a private pay res-ident or may apply through ourOutreach Services program to qual-ify for assistance so they may

receive supplemental assistance.The Masonic Home is a

place of retirement, a place whereyou don’t have to worry aboutmaintenance or upkeep; it is also a

place of com-pan ionsh ipand friend-ships. It is aplace to callHome!

T h eM a s o n i cH o m eencouragesyou to take

time and visit this beautiful facilitythat you have made possiblethrough your ongoing support.When you are ready for enjoyinglife The Masonic Way, you considerdoing it at our Masonic Home ofMissouri, with questions orinquiries please contact KathrynJohnson at 1-866-763-6667.

A Place to Call Home


Grand Secretary Area Meet-ings are going to be here beforeyou know it. Try your best to be inattendance at one of these meet-ings. Director of Public Relations,Sara Snodderley will be in atten-dance to speak to all MasonicHome Representatives and Secre-taries on the duties as MasonicHome Representative. She willalso be answering questions andproviding information on the Pro-

grams available through theMasonic Home of Missouri.

Any Masonic Home Repre-sentative who is uncertain of whatyour duties are while holding thisvery important position shouldcontact our office immediately. Wewill send out our New MHM Rep-resentative packet that containsextensive information on the differ-ent items you may work on as yourLodge's Representative, in addition

to the procedures on how to makereferrals through the Outreach Pro-gram or what things our assistancecan help to provide.

Lastly, we encourage allrepresentatives to continue tomake referrals to the Outreach Pro-gram. You have been doing a greatjob this year and we look forwardto hearing more from each andevery one of you.

Attention Masonic Home Representatives

Making Decisions about your Legacy . . .By David Horner, Director of Development of the

Masonic Home of Missouri

It is a sad fact that someMasons die without having made awill or living trust. The unfortunateresult is that regardless of their ageor wealth, these individuals willgive up control of all assets theyhave earned or inherited over theyears. Without a will, the state ofMissouri determines the final distri-bution of your estate. Not only willyour assets be allocated accordingto someone else’s wishes, yourassets will likely be eroded byincreased costs.

A Much Better Way . . .Assets of your lifetime can helpform your legacy, or how you willbe remembered by others. Proper-ly written, a will or living trust canbe a tool to ensure that your wish-es are handled quickly and effi-ciently, streamlining the process offulfilling your wishes.

With a well-written will ortrust, you are on a narrow roadwith few fellow travelers. This isyour chance to shine. If you are akind person, you can be really kind.If you are a faithful person, you canbe really faithful. In fact, most gen-erously-minded people considermaking their largest charitable con-tribution ever through their will ortrust.

Let’s not earn the despair ofKing Solomon who once wrote,"And I hated all my labor in which I

labored under the sun: Because Imust leave it to the man who shallcome after me. And who knowswhether he will be a wise man or afool?"

Where there is a will, thereis not just a way – it is your way!Your Masonic Home is especiallyqualified to assist you and your pro-fessional advisor with any charita-ble goal you may have. Telephoneus at 1-800-434-9804 or e-mail meat [email protected] to speakwith our staff.

"[Money] is an excellent giftof God, answering the noblestends. In the hands of His children,it is food for the hungry, drink forthe thirsty, raiment for the naked; itgives to the traveler and thestranger where to lay his head.

By it we may supply theplace of a husband to the widow,and of a father to the fatherless.

We may be a defense forthe oppressed, a means of health tothe sick, of ease to them that are inpain; it may be as eyes to the blind,

as feet to the lame; yea, a lifter upfrom the gates of death!

It is therefore of the highestconcern that all who fear God knowhow to employ this valuable talent;that they be instructed how it mayanswer these glorious ends."

John Wesley *

* This quote by John Wes-ley, the founder of Methodism, istaken from his 1760 sermon, "TheUse of Money," and reminds usagain that what we do at theMasonic Home of Missouri is basedon principals outlined long ago.


In an attempt to send you the most current information on the Masonic Home of Missouri, we ask that youplease mail or email your current Secretary’s name and address, so that we may supply your Chapter with the lat-est information on the Masonic Home of Missouri as it happens. We appreciate your support and look forward tokeeping you updated throughout this New Year. Please send all updates to [email protected] or Mason-ic Home of Missouri, Public Relations Department, 6033 Masonic Dr., Ste A Columbia, MO 65202.

Sincerely,Masonic Home of Missouri

Eastern Star Chapters . . .

If you would like to participate in this event either with a foursome

or by one of our levels of sponsorships please give the Public

Relations Department a call today.

800-434-9804

All proceeds from this event go towards our two Masonic Home

Children’s Programs. The Children’s Outreach and the Creating a

Partnership/School program. These two programs help kids across

the state of Missouri.

Last year through your support the Golf Tournament raised over

$22,000 for these great programs. We hope to double that this

year and with your help we can!

** Detailed information to come soon**

4TH ANNUAL ‘LEAVES OF AUTUMN’

GOLF OUTINGMARK YOUR

CALENDARS FORSeptember 11, 2006

A.L. Gustin Golf Course, Columbia MO

Shot Gun Start at 10:30am


"’Home’ for the homelessBrother Mason who may have beenunfortunate in his lifestruggle…Home for the wid-ows…Home for the helplessorphans. It is to be a Home indeedwith all that is implied in thatblessed word".

The Masonic Library andMuseum is located in the MasonicComplex with the corporate offices

for the Masonic Home of Missouriand the Grand Lodge of Missouri at6033 Masonic Drive, Columbia,MO 65202. The phone number is800/ 434-9804 or 573/ 814-4663.It is open Monday through Fridayfrom 9 am until 4 pm, except formajor holidays. There is of courseno charge.

Take Hwy 63 North fromColumbia. Exit at the Prathersvilleexit. Turn right at the end of theramp and then take the first leftonto Masonic Drive. It is your sec-ond building on the right. There isplenty of parking in front. Thebuilding is fully handicapped acces-sible.

Masons Helping Masons Helping MissouriAn exhibit on the Masonic Home of Missouri

Running through 2006 in Columbia

The purpose of the Masonic Home Area Meet-ings is to try and reach more people at one time, keep-ing the cost of traveling to a minimum. The MasonicHome strives toward providing the most up to dateinformation to its members and their families on whatbenefits are available through the Masonic Home Pro-grams. All Masonic brothers, sisters, wives, widowsand family members are invited to attend a meetingin the area closest to them. We want to remindeveryone that these meetings are not just limited to

Masonic Home Representatives. We wish for asmany as possible to hear about these great pro-grams. All lodges that do attend will receive Achieve-ment Award points just as if you were hosting aMasonic Home meeting in your own lodge. We askthat each of you contact Michelle Phillippe, Public Rela-tions Assistant at 800-434-9804 with the number ofmembers and/or family planning to attend and whichmeeting you will be attending. We will be providing alight dinner with refreshments starting at 6:00.

All meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m.LOCATION DATEDays Inn, 3805 S. Baltimore, Kirksville (Rescheduled) November 8, 2005 Masonic Complex, Columbia November 17, 2005Civic Center, 2 Black Knight Dr, Farmington December 6, 2005University Havener Center, 1349 N. Bishop, Rolla January 12, 2006Days Inn, 2345 E. Marvel Rd., Nevada January 17, 2006Brotherhood Lodge No. 269, St. Joseph January 26, 2006Hannibal & St. Johns Lodge, Hannibal February 7, 2006Masonic York Rite Temple, Springfield February 21, 20063 River Shrine, Poplar Bluff March 7, 2006Ararat Temple, Kansas City March 9, 2006Donita’s Catering, 5007 Buffalo Rd, Jefferson City April 4, 2006

Masonic Home of Missouri Area Presentations(November 2005-November 2006)


Masonic Home of Missouri Area Presentationscontinued

LOCATION DATEThe Christy Banquet Center, 9000 Veterans April 11, 2006Memorial Parkway, O’FallonKirksville Masonic Temple, Kirksville April 27, 2006Mountain Grove Lodge No. 158, Mt. Grove May 2, 2006Corinthian Lodge No. 265, Warrensburg June 19, 2006

Warrensburg’s meeting will begin at 6:30pm Harold O. Grauel Lodge No. 672, Cape Girardeau June 29, 2006Trenton Lodge No. 111, Trenton July 25, 2006Meramec Lodge No. 313, Eureka August 15, 2006Brookfield Lodge No. 86, Brookfield August 22, 2006Shawnee Lodge No. 653, Warsaw August 29, 2006Cass Lodge No. 147, Harrisonville October 3, 2006Eminence Lodge No. 607, Eminence October 10, 2006Stockton Lodge No. 283, Stockton October 24, 2006Masonic Home Residential Facility, Kansas City November 7, 2006

Please, contact the Masonic Home of Missouri Public Relations Departmentwith any questions. 1-800-434-9804

Outreach Changing Lives in 2005!Once again the Outreach Program has made huge strides in providing assistance to our Masonic

members. This assistance has not only provided individuals with a newfound hope but it has given themthe strength to manage their lives.

The Masonic Home's Outreach Program that began in 1991 has been able to provide so manythings to so many different individuals and we hope as the years pass that we will be able to continue tofind those individuals that need our help with your assistance and support. In 2005, the Masonic Homewas able to provide 126 people and 11 Children with support through our Outreach Program.

The Outreach Program provides three main types of assistance to Missouri Master Masons, wives,widows and female members of the Order of the Eastern Star. Our Children’s Outreach Program alsoprovides different types of assistance to eligible children/dependents of Missouri Master Masons andEastern Star Members. In addition children can qualify through their own youth membership should theirparents not be affiliated.

Should you not be familiar with the different Programs provided through the Masonic Home,which are made possible through your support, I encourage you to attend a Masonic Home Area meet-ing or contact us directly to make yourself familiar with what you may be eligible for, should the timeever arise.

Reminder to all Lodge SecretariesSeveral weeks ago, a letter was sent to every Lodge requesting updated infor-

mation on their Masonic Home Representative. I want to thank those who havealready sent in the information and want to remind everyone who has not yetdone so to please submit the updated information at their earliest convenience.I appreciate all of your continued support in the efforts to keep this informationcurrent. It is through this information that we can keep your lodge and its mem-bers informed on programs and changes that occur with the Masonic Home ofMissouri.


Senior Grand WardenBruce R. Austin

Bruce Raymond Austin was born December 14, 1935 in EastPrairie, Missouri, and was educated in the East Prairie Public Schools,graduating in 1953. Bruce attended Southeast Missouri State Univer-sity in Cape Girardeau for two years. Joining the U.S. Navy, where hebecame a Hospital Corpsman, trained to specialize in the uses of I-131, radioactive iodine, for thyroid glandular studies. He was sta-tioned at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland for3 1/2 years. Enrolled in the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science inCincinnati, Ohio, where he obtained a degree in mortuary science,graduating Magna Cum Laude. Brother Austin returned to East Prairiewhere he was associated with McMikle Funeral Homes, both in EastPrairie and Charleston. Bruce then met and Married Myrtle (betterknown as Sisser) Goodin on April 6, 1963 in Charleston. They have

three sons: Stephen and Sam of Charleston, and David of Webster Groves, Missouri. Bruce then startedfarming with his father-in-law in March 1965. He took over the farm in 1974 and, at the present time,farms over 1700 acres, growing soybeans, corn, and winter wheat. He took in his middle son, Sam, asa full partner in the farm operation.

Stephen, his oldest son, is a pilot. David, his youngest son, sells surgical instruments. David is adual member of Charleston Lodge #407 and Webster Grove Lodge #84. He is also a member of St. LouisScottish Rite and is a past Venerable Master of the Lodge of Perfection. He is also a member of the YorkRite Bodies. All three sons are Eagle Scouts.

Bruce’s civic duties include: Past President and member of the Mississippi County Library Board,Past Chairman of the University of Missouri’s Outreach and Extension Council, has served on manyboards in the United Methodist Church, where he and Myrtle are both active members. He is a pastmember and President of the Charleston R-1 School Board, and a past Scoutmaster of Charleston BoyScout Troop 323. He still serves on the Troop Committee.

He is a member of the Farm Bureau and the Delta Growers Association. Bruce and Myrtle werehonored by being named the Mississippi County Farm Family in 1996. Bruce was Charleston’s Man of theYear in 1999.

He wife, Myrtle, has served as Den Mother, and was the first female Cubmaster in the District. Sheis a member and past president of both the Junior Study Club and PEO Chapter CV. She has also servedon many committees of the United Methodist Church, and is also a past Woman of the Year in Charleston.She retired from teaching first grade in the Charleston Public Schools.

RWB Bruce’s Masonic Affiliations began in February 1961, where he was initiated into East PrairieLodge #384, where three months later he was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. In 1964,he transferred his membership to Charleston Lodge #407, where he served as Master both in 1972 and1980. He is a member of the Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis. He was awarded the Knight Commanderof the Court of Honor in 1979, and was honored with the 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary in1995. He also served as Venerable Master in the Lodge of Perfection in 1995.

Other Masonic memberships include: Charleston Chapter #19 RAM, where he served as HighPriest in 1997 and 1998, and received the "Order of High Priesthood" in Branson, MO at Chapter #75,Cape Council #20, Cryptic Masons, and Cape Girardeau Commandery #55, Knights Templar. He is also amember of the Olin S McDaniel Allied Masonic Degree, where he was Sovereign Master in 2005, theMissouri Lodge of Research, member of the Scottish Rite Temple Preservation Board, and the ScottishRite Foundation of Missouri, the Hunt York Rite College #162 of St. Louis, and the Capaha Scottish RiteClub in Cape Girardeau. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the old 50th Masonic District from1996-1999.


Junior Grand Warden Rocky E. Weaver

Right Worshipful Brother Rocky Edward Weaver was born inKansas City , MO on November 12, 1948. He was the first of four boysborn to William Junior and Maude Esther Weaver. Rocky was educat-ed in the Kansas City school system and graduated from North KansasCity High School in 1967. He attended Maple Woods Community Col-lege for two years. He was employed at Ford Motor Company in Clay-como, Missouri for over 32 years. On June 1st of 2001 Rocky retiredfrom Ford because he decided that wasn't what he wanted to do whenhe grew up.

He and his late wife Judy started a small embroidery businessin 1997, which continues to operate out of his home. Rocky lost Judyto a brain tumor on August 30 of 2001. They were married for 31years. Rocky has one son, Bradley James and four grandchildren

Olivia, Zebulon, Calista and Jacob. Rocky is a member of the First Baptist Church of Buckner.As another chapter unfolds in his life, he wed Ms. Janet Berwald of Lyndhurst, Ohio on Novem-

ber 15, 2002. He now has a stepdaughter Cheryl Berwald and stepson Alan Berwald.RWB Weaver served two years in the United States Army. He attended the Aviation Maintenance

school in Fort Eustice, Virginia where he finished first in his class. He was then sent to NCO training schoolwhere he attained the rank of Specialist E5. He finished his stint in the 177th Army Aviation Company atFort Benning, Georgia. RWB Weaver enjoys reading--especially historical fiction--as well as books onMasonic subjects. He and Janet love to travel. He enjoys golf and fishing as outdoor sports. He also lovesto teach whenever given the opportunity, and being part of a team effort.

RWB Weaver is a member of Liberty Lodge No. 31 (initiated in 1983) and holds a perpetual mem-bership there. He was Worshipful Master of Liberty Lodge in 1992-93, and was the fifteenth Master in arow to receive the Grand Lodge Achievement Award. He was interim Secretary of Liberty Lodge fromJune to September of 1993. He was the President of the Liberty Masonic Temple Board in 1991. He alsohas perpetual memberships in Buckner Lodge No. 501 and Kansas City Lodge No. 220. He is also amember of the Missouri Lodge of Research. He is Grand Representative to Ohio. He was appointed tothe advancing line as Senior Grand Marshall by Most Worshipful Brother Glenn Means in September of2001.

RWB Weaver is a past High Priest of Liberty Chapter No. 3 (1993-94), Past Illustrious Master ofLiberty Council No. 50 (1993-94), and Past Eminent Commander of Liberty Commandery No. 6 (1993-94). He was the 1994 recipient of the Lewis and Clark Award from the Grand Commandery. Rocky is adual member of Independence Chapter No. 12, Independence Council No. 49, and Palestine Comman-dery No. 17. He also holds a dual membership with Ascalon Commandery No. 16. He is a member ofthe Order of High Priesthood, Order of the Silver Trowel and the Past Commanders Association. He is arecipient of the Missouri Knight York Cross of Honor.

He was elected to the advancing line of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar in 1994 andwas elected and installed as Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of KnightsTemplar of the State of Missouri during the 139th Annual Conclave on May 21, 2000. Sir Knight Weaverhas Honorary Memberships in the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas,Oklahoma and Texas, and the KYCH in Arkansas and Oklahoma. He is a Grand Representative to Iowanear the Grand Commandery of Missouri and Grand Representative to Finland for the Grand Chapter ofMissouri.

RWB Weaver is a charter member of Harry S. Truman York Rite College and a recipient of the YorkRite Sovereign College of North America Order of the Purple Cross. He is a past Sovereign Master of Kil-winning Council No. 19, Allied Masonic Degrees. He is a member of Buckner Chapter 280 Order of theEastern Star. He is a member of Ararat Shrine in Kansas City. He is an officer of Mary Conclave, of theKnights of the Red Cross of Constantine. Rocky holds memberships in the Past Masters Club, Sword of


Weaver continued

Bunker Hill and the ORCOMOT Shrine Club where he is a past president. He is a member of theRoyal Order of Scotland, Societas Rosicruciana, Tipperary Council of Knights Masons and the Forty-FiversClub of Past Grand Commanders. He has received the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He is a member of theScottish Rite Valley of Kansas City, President of Chapter 63 National Sojourners of Kansas City, and an offi-cer in the Heroes of '76, and is a member of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests.

He proudly serves as an Advisory Board member of North Kansas City Assembly No. 55, Interna-tional Order of the Rainbow for Girls. Rocky is a recipient of the Grand Cross of Color from the SupremeAssembly of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

Senior Grand Deacon Larry C. Reynolds

Larry C. Reynolds was born 1/13/45 in Gainesville, Mo.,attended public schools there, graduating High School in 1963. Hemoved to Springfield, Mo. where he was employed by the OzarkNews Agency until volunteering for the Armed Services in 1965. Heserved 3 years in the US Army, abtaining the rank of SP5-E5, beforehis discharge in 1968. While in the Army he spent 1 year in Viet Nam,and the remainder of his enlistment at various Bases in the U.S. Dur-ing this time, he married in 1966, and he and his wife, Bettie, have oneDaughter, Deanna, Son-in-law, Shannon Riebold, and grandson,Austin. After discharge from the army, he was employed by KraftFoods in Springfield, where he retired after over 32 years of service.While with Kraft Foods, he attended SMSU, majoring in BusinessAdminstration.

He and Bettie are members of First Babtist Church inRogersville, Mo.

His Masonic career began in Gainesville, Mo. in 1969. He was initiated in April 1969, passed inMay, and raised to the Degree of Master Mason in June, 1969. He transferred to Henderson Lodge #477,in 1971, becoming Worshipful Master in 1985, and again in 2000-01. He has served several Grand Mas-ters as a Grand Officer, and also on several committees, including Scholarship, Long Range Planning, andMasonic Education, being appointed Chairman of the Masonic Education Committee by Most Wor. Bro.Glenn Means. In 1988, M. W. Bro. Bob Jenkins, appointed him DDGM of his district, where he served for6 years. John Siscel, in 1998, tapped him for the Advancing Line for the Missouri Lodge of Research. Heis also a member of the National Sojourners #63 Kansas City, Mo. and Old Glory Camp, Heros of 76.

He is a member of Scottish Rite, Valley of Joplin, where he works in the 9th, 10th, and 11thdegrees, also works in the 15th degree, and is Director of the 13th degree, being awarded the KnightCommander Court of Honer (KCCH), in 2001. He serves on the Valley of Joplin's Board for its Speech andHearing Clinic.

He is also very active in Abou-Ben-Adhem Shrine where he is a member of several units and clubs,including Marching Patrol and The Ritual Cast. Both he and Bettie are Twenty Five yr. Members of theOrder Of Eastern Star of Missouri.

His hobbies include Reading, Fishing, Hunting, and riding his ATV.


Weston Lodge #53,AF&AM teamed with WestonChapter #197, OES to support TheMasonic Children’s Foundation ofMissouri in conducting a "ChildIdentification Program" (CHIP) held

December 17, 2005 in the WestonHigh School Cafeteria. The CHIP hasevolved in sophistication to thepoint that as many as 30 volunteersare needed to fully support the pro-gram. Subsequently, a call for helpwas sent out and Masons fromAgency, Saint Joseph, Gower,

Edgerton, Platte City and EasternStar Ladies from Platte City, Edger-ton, Parkville, and Barry (NKC) wereon hand in support of the Program.

While one crew of volun-teers were supporting the CHIP,

another crew of approximately 25Masons, O.E.S. Ladies, and othervolunteers from the communitywere busy as they put together 300fruit baskets for senior citizens. Inaddition to the fruit baskets, theybought groceries, coats, boots,jeans, coveralls and toys for the

kids in 17 families in the school dis-trict and surrounding area who arehaving a rough time of it. Theapproximately $6,000 for the activ-ities was raised from the MasonicLodge’s annual fruit sale and dona-tions from people in the communi-ty.

Weston Lodge #53 andWeston Chapter #197 O.E.S. start-ed giving fruit baskets to senior cit-izens in the early 1970’s. The pro-gram has grown into an all-daycommunity service project.

The Masonic Bodies of Weston PerformCommunity Service in December

The Order of the Eastern Staris the largest fraternal organization inthe world to which both men andwomen may belong. Worldwide,there are approximately one millionmembers under the General GrandChapter. In Missouri alone there are23,089.

Eastern Star is a social ordercomprised of persons with spiritualvalues, but it is not religion. It is opento all Faiths.

We strive to be an orderwhich is truly dedicated to CHARITY,TRUTH and LOVING KINDNESS.

In the year October 2003-2004 the state of Missouri presented

Order of the Eastern Star

The 2005 Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Grand Patron and the Past Most WorthyGrand Matron are pictured above with members of the Grand Representatives Club of2005. Left to Right/Front to Back: Marge Carney, Mary Ann Browning, Lea Bousman,Lois J. Newman, PMWGM, Retha Felkner-WGM 2005, Creed Marriott-WGP 2005, Mari-lyn McMillan, Sherry Wilcher and Karen Gaertner


$80,230.46 to Charity that wasdonated by the Members of theOrder of the Eastern Star.The Charities for 2004-2005 were:Youth Groups including the • Rainbow for Girls, Jobs Daughtersand DeMolay. • Estarl-Training for religious leaders• Masonic Home • Cancer• Scholarships are also available forstudents each year.

Last year's leaders wereRetha Felkner of Lamar who held theoffice of Worthy Grand Matron andCreed Marriott of Versailles who heldthe office of Worthy Grand Patron.

We are all representatives ofthe noble principles, which adornpersonal lives of its members whostrive to take good people andthrough uplifting associations andservice, build an order of dedicationto charity, truth and loving kindness.

Monies were collected atthe 2005 Annual Grand Chapter Ses-sion in the amount of $5,000 for thevictims of Hurricane Katrina. Thesefunds were collected from oneappeal during the session. Funds willcontinue to be collected from theindividual chapters throughout thestate.

There Are No StrangersBy Steve Harrison, PM

It could have been anytown, anywhere. Where it wasdoesn’t matter. It was just a newtown to me, a strange town. OnSaturday, my wife, Carolyn, and Idrove around this new place.Among other things, we discov-ered a beautiful, ornate church. Wedecided to attend the next morn-ing.

The following day we puton, as they say, our Sunday finestand headed for the church. It wasa wonderful old building, made oflimestone with carvings and giz-mos everywhere. We stayed out-side for a while, walked around it,admired it.

Inside, everything was newto us, but somehow familiar, com-fortable. The greeters were quickto recognize us as visitors and justas quick to welcome us as if wewere old friends. We shook hands,talked and smiled. They walked usdown the hall and into the sanctu-ary. As I entered, a colossal pipeorgan, too large, too magnificentfor this small, unfamiliar town filledmy field of vision. The breathtakingorgan gazed down upon old elabo-rate pews. On top of everythingelse, the sanctuary was filled with

Christmas decorations. Garlandhung from the rafters. Stars twin-kled. A manger flanked a hugeover-decorated Christmas tree.

This was a House of God.Carolyn and I slid into our

seats. We shared more smiles andhandshakes with people around us.

The choir boomed,announcing the start of the service.We sang. We prayed. We greeted

each other. We listened. In a quietmoment, I sat back and simplyadmired the place.

Suddenly, while I was soak-ing it all in, I felt something hit myright shoulder. I looked aside andout of the corner of my eye I saw ahand. I moved back for a betterview and saw the hand was holding

a piece of paper. I took the paper,opened it and read.

"I saw the square and com-passes on your lapel…"

He told me his name, hiswife’s name, his lodge, the officeshe had held. I had his entireMasonic CV scribbled on the notein front of me. At the end heasked, "What about you?"

On the back of the note Itold him all about me, my wife wasnamed Carolyn, my Lodge, I was inthe officers’ line, I knew the "LetterG" and charge. I handed the noteback to him.

In a few minutes, here itcame again. Did I know so-and-so?Why were we in town? I answeredhis questions and asked a little bitabout him.

There we sat, two grownmen, in this magnificent house ofGod, in this inspiring service, pass-ing notes like a couple of gradeschool kids – and becoming friends,all because of a simple square andcompasses pin and the bond, thebrotherhood it signified. When youare a Mason, in the company ofMasons, there are no strangers.


WOOF!Since my last article, I have been

busy traveling for visits and speaking atour sponsoring bodies’ conventions. OnAugust 20th, we gathered for our firstvisit in Sarcoxie. This was a formal visit,and everyone looked very nice. We had anice little dog show with several differentbreeds and informational facts about eachone. The panel of judges chose the cham-pion breed for best of show of the day,which was the Labrador-Retriever (aka:ME!!). After introductions and someentertainment we all moved the partydownstairs for hotdogs, chips, puppychow, and cookies. There was a nicecrowd in attendance, and several itemscollected for the service project. Thankyou those who attended and those whodonated items!

After our first visit in Sarcoxie,everyone traveled to Pulaski County onSeptember 17th, for a day at the dogpound. We began the afternoon early forthose who chose to, and got to have pic-tures taken with dogs they brought out,and the picture money was donated tothe service project. The visit began withthe major and PCA dog pound roundingup all the loose pooches. We were takento the pound (the middle of the assemblyroom) and kept until someone paid toget us out. That money went to the ser-vice project as well. After all the catchingof the pooches (aka: introductions), wehad a brief break to set up for trivia. Therewere four teams of four people, and wewere asked famous dogs, and dog trivia.Minus a severe amount of cheating,everyone had a good time! After triviaeveryone headed downstairs for sweettreats and social time. Overall the daywas a success, and everyone had anenjoyable time!

My next adventure after the PCAvisit was to Columbia for Grand Lodge onSeptember 28th and 29th. I arrived onSunday and helped hold down the fort(rainbow table) until we changed for theevening’s banquet. The banquet was verynice, and they had great food! The grandmaster and his wife actually sang forentertainment, and it was quite good.After the banquet and some chatting, wewent to the hospitality room where wesocialized with some officers and mem-bers. Monday morning we were up ear-ly and attended the breakfast where we

sat and spoke with several of the men’swives. Then we quickly went up tochange and prepare for the meetingwhere I was to speak. The three heads ofthe youth organizations patiently waitedwhile the meeting finished up so wecould speak. Several distinguished mem-bers were introduced and Justin Dryer,Andrea Flannery, and I spoke to themembers, telling them what our organi-zation has meant to each of us. Then weleft the room so they could finish theirbusiness and waited to attend the lun-cheon. The weekend was a success, and Ihad a great time getting to know a lot ofthe Masons.

After a week of school, I wasback on the road to Columbia for theirvisit. Those who chose to come early toplay with dogs the Central Humane Soci-ety brought out. They had 2 dogs and 1puppy, and I also brought my black lab,Jessie. The puppy was lucky enough tofind a quick home with Lynn Klotz andher family. After playing with the puppieswe all gathered out front for a picnic withlots of food, friends, and fun! It turnedinto a very nice afternoon for picnicking.Following lunch we went inside for thevisit. There was a stuffed animal contest.If you brought a stuffed animal, peoplecould put money in a bin for whicheverone they liked the best, and whicheverbowl had the most money won! All themoney went to the service project. Therewas also a t-shirt contest and all of themwere cute! The visit began with introduc-tions in the dog ring, and everyone wasgiven a dog treat for being good. After allthe introductions the assembly room wasdivided into four sections and we playeda game! It was a good time, and my teamwon!! Great job everyone! After gametime, I made a few announcements andeveryone grabbed snacks for the road.The day was fun, and we collected manyitems for the humane societies.

Once again I was on the road,back to Columbia for Grand Chapter.Once I got there, I changed into my for-mal to get ready for the evening's ban-quet. The distinguished members wereescorted in and seated at the head tablesfor dinner. We had a very nice dinner fol-lowed by entertainment. After the enter-tainment the three youth organizationsspoke as well as a few other distin-guished members. Then I was on theroad to home to get back to school for

classes the next morning. Before I knew it I was back on

the road headed to St. Louis for their vis-it. We all showed up in our "cowboy"attire including boots and hats. We beganthe afternoon with drills from the cow-girls, a flag tribute, and then the deputyrounded up everyone (introductions). Iwas rounded up first and escorted out,and then rode a little tractor in, bringingleashes they donated to the service pro-ject. Each group of people brought in aload of items donated to the service pro-ject and we ended up with a car full! Fol-lowing introductions they taught us acouple of line dances and had a squaredance caller come in. I had an awesometime, and I think everyone else did also.After dancing, everyone went downstairsfor refreshments and social time. Every-one was invited to a hayride afterwards,and they all had a good time.

The year has gone by fast so far,and I anticipate it to continue at the ratewhether I am ready or not. So far every-thing is going well, and I am having ablast. We have a little break for winter,but don’t forget to attend Grand Crossfunctions if you can. The State Dean’sreception was November 19th, with aWONDERFUL room-full of friends honor-ing Yvonne Young. Instead of doggiesbeing the focus, we learned catfacts...meow! Her grocery cart, too, wasoverfilled with more donations to the ser-vice project.

My next visit will be April 1st inNorth Kansas City. This is also my recep-tion, and that evening is the dance, socome prepared for a fun afternoon andevening. This visit will be at 2:00pm andwill be business meeting casual.

I hear bits and pieces about ourMissouri Rainbow Assemblies grow-ing...and look forward to hearing fromour Supreme Deputy after the MotherAdvisors file their year-end reports. Iknow many Assemblies have direct par-ticipation from many fine MissouriMasons and to those who give their timeand energy...as well as those who give ustheir thoughts and prayers--thank you!

I look forward to seeing every-one throughout the remainder of eventsduring the year, and I hope everyone ishaving as good of a time as I am!

Puppy Licks and Tail Wags,Pamela BakerGrand Worthy Advisor


CorrectionThe Missouri Freemason

published this picture in its Winterissue as a part of the article "TheNight Brother Harry Dropped In." Itshows President Harry Trumanstanding with the brethren of BeechGrove Lodge #694 on the eveningof his visit. We credited this pictureto the Grand Lodge of Indiana.

However, the credit should haveread, "Photo Courtesy MWB DwightL. Smith." The family of MWBSmith generously granted the Mis-souri Freemason permission toprint the photograph.

MWB Dwight L. Smith(1909 – 1993) was Grand Master ofIndiana in 1945 – 1946. He wasGrand Secretary 1948 – 1979.MWB Smith, raised in Pennville (IN)Lodge No. 212 in 1934, was one ofthe United States’ most prolificMasonic authors. He is one of onlyfour United States Masons whohave been admitted to the presti-gious Quatuor Coronati Lodge No.2076, UGLE, generally recognizedas premiere lodge of Masonicresearch.

On April 24, 2005, Meier-hoffer Funeral Home dedicated itsnew building in St. Joseph, Mis-souri. One of the unusual aspectsof the structure was setting aside ofan area to honor certain fraternalbodies in the state. One area wasdedicated to the Masonic Fraterni-ty. It is a small but very attractivearea, which signifies the solemnityof the fraternity. It is an outsidealcove with benches for relaxingand viewing the area surroundingthe funeral home. The Masonic areais easily accessible from both theoutside and inside of the building.A plaque on the wall explains thatthis area has been dedicated to theMasons. We believe this is the firsttime a funeral home has done anextraordinary thing such as this.

Degree NightA common topic of conversation among Masons is----we have

Degree Work next week. Do we stop to think what we are really saying?Are we remembering our own Degrees and how special they were to us?Coming from a Masonic Family, maybe I was not as nervous as some, butI had a few butterflies. When a man petitions the Lodge his Masonic edu-cation should begin. Explain as much as you can, guiding him throughwhat takes place after the Petition is filled out. Why does it have to lay overthe specified time, why does a Committee of Investigation have to beformed and how does it function. Talk about the cost of initiation, and thedues for your Lodge. Tell him as much as possible about the degrees.When you ask him questions listen to the answers, and do not be thinkingof your next question. When the committee visits with him and his fami-ly, include the family in the conversation and listen to and respond to theirquestions. We are not just bringing in a Mason, we should be bringing inhis family also.

We need to get back to making the degrees special for each candi-date. When that Brother goes home he should feel that degree was put ononly for him. Even if you have multiple degrees, you can still foster thatfeeling of being special. If we totally dedicate the evening or day to theBrother or Brothers, we will instill the feeling that the time was for themalone. This can be accomplished in several ways, but probably the best andeasiest is simply to be courteous. Stay with the Brother throughout theevening or day-----lead, guide, and direct-----like our sponsors did for us.

If we lead Masonic lives outside the Lodge, undiscovered Masonswill flock to us for membership.

THE OLE PAST MASTER

Funeral Home Dedication


The noted American educa-tor, Carl Schurz, in a letter writtenin 1864, said of President AbrahamLincoln, "He is a man of profoundfeeling, correct and firm principles,and incorruptible honesty. Hismotives are unquestionable and hepossesses, to a remarkable degree,the characteristic God-given trait ofthis people, sound commonsense."

The same thoughts maywell be expressed today in fullappreciation of one of the toweringfigures in Masonry, brotherAlphonse Cerza. This good a broth-er was born in Piane Crati, Italy in1905, the son of Francisco and Ser-afina (Tosta) Cerza. Soon after hisbirth, his father and his older broth-er departed from their native landin search of a better life for the fam-ily in the land of America.

After a short period of timein Omaha, Nebraska, his fatherreturned to Italy to bring hisremaining family members to thisgreat American land of opportuni-ty. They arrived in Boston, Mass.before settling in Chicago. It was inChicago that young Alphonsebegan his early schooling at theDante Elementary School.

In 1918, his father fell vic-tim to the epidemic of influenzathen running rampant around theworld, a wife and three children.The oldest son had already estab-lished his own family in Chicago.Despite the economic promise ofAmerica, life was difficult for theCerza family. Young Alphonse, ofnecessity, went to work afterschool as an errand boy for a localnewspaper. It was here that hegained his first association with theprinted word that was to eventuateinto a lifelong passion.

Alphonse secured employ-ment in a printing shop where hedeveloped affection for the Lino-type machine and the printingpress. So strong was the infusion ofprinter's ink into his being that

many years later when his homewas built in Riverside, Illinois, hepurchased and had installed in hisbasement the Chandler and Priceletter press that he had actuallyused in bygone years. The presswas so large and heavy that it hadto be set into place and the houseconstructed around it. Alphonsecontinued to use this press to printhis legal stationery, law briefs andmany items of fraternal interest.During his youth, Alphonse contin-ued to work in the printing trade,but also honed his business acu-men by selling newspapers and byrunning a shoeshine stand, earninga nickel for each pair of shoesshined.

At the age of 14, he com-pleted elementary school andbecame eligible to hold a full-timejob, which he obtained in 1920 inthe bindery department of a ban-knote Co. in Chicago. Finding thisemployment not entirely to his lik-ing, Alphonse apprenticed himselfin various local print shops, whileattending high school in theevenings. He hoped to become anewspaper journalist.

Alphonse subsequentlytransferred to Crane High School,but did not graduate because of adispute with the principal. By1926, sufficient academic creditsto enroll in Junior College.Alphonse worked diligently, carry-ing a full academic curriculum.With fully 90 hours on a transcriptlaced with good grades, heenrolled as a student in the LawSchool of Northwestern University.

In 1929, he graduated fromNorthwestern University with aB.S. Degree in Law. His joy ofaccomplishment was severely test-ed within a few short months bythe death of his mother. Alphonsewas compelled to alter his careerplans. He enrolled in Chicago'sLoyola University Law School. Hewas awarded the degree of JurisDoctor in 1931 and a year later was

admitted to the Illinois Bar. His desire to further his

journalistic career was delayedbecause of severe economic condi-tions then engulfing the nation. Inorder to support himself, Alphonsepracticed law in the daytime andworked evenings in a print shop. In1934, Alphonse Cerza was joinedin wedlock with Olga Baratte; aunion that would last for 53 yearsand was blessed with three chil-dren and 12 grandchildren.

His legal practice was soonexpanded by his appointment asan assistant Corporation Counsel ofthe City of Chicago. Later, hebecame the Chief EnforcementAttorney in the Chicago area rentcontrol office of the Federal PriceAdministration. He resigned fromthis position in 1944 to enter lawpractice, first with a partner and lat-er, in 1953 in his own practice. Inthe same year, Alphonse joined thefaculty of the John Marshall LawSchool in Chicago. Here he taughtcourses in Government Law andCivil Procedure. He authored twotextbooks on the subject. He wasalways a popular teacher trainingmany aspiring lawyers. He retiredfrom the faculty in 1974.

The vineyards of Masonrywere first entered by AlphonseCerza in 1936 in Wabansia LodgeNo. 160 in Chicago. His nascentinterest in the Craft prompted himto enter the appointed line ofLodge officers and, in 1945, hewas elected Worshipful Master.Later, he became a member ofRiverside Lodge No. 862 in River-side, Illinois, nearer his home.

His true interest, however,was devoted to Masonic writingand research. He worked exten-sively for the Grand Lodge of Illi-nois, serving on the Committees ofMasonic Education, Legislation,and Publications. He was appoint-ed Grand orator in 1968-69. Histwo annual presentations: A Con-cise History of Freemasonry In Illi-

Alphonse CerzaBy Dr. Stephen R. Greenberg


nois and Our Masonic Heritagewere outstanding examples ofscholarly research; a source ofdirection for future Masonicresearchers.

He joined the Scottish Ritein the valley of Chicago in 1945.Soon afterwards, he became amember of the Scottish Rite Speak-ers' Bureau and subsequently itschairman. During his tenure, heinstituted the Thursday EveningSpeakers Forums at the ScottishRite Cathedral. These eveningsquickly gained popularity with theinclusion of invited speakers ofnote.

He was honored with themeritorious Service Award fromthe Illinois Council of Deliberationin 1961 and a year later he wascoroneted with the 33rd Degree.

Brother Cerza authoredseveral books of lasting value.Among them, Anti-Masonry, His-tory of the Scottish Rite In Illinois,The Courts and Freemasonry, AMasonic Thought for Each Day ofthe Year and A Masonic Readers'Guide.

His interests in thingsMasonic ranged widely. There wasno facet that escaped his noticeand his pen. He wrote extensivelyon the Roman Catholic Church andFreemasonry; on Prince HallMasonry; colonial Freemasonry;the effect of the War of Indepen-dence of on Freemasonry; theCourts and Freemasonry; Taxationof Masonic Property; A Survey ofMasonic Literature; and Women'sLiberation and Freemasonry.

Alphonse’s essays haveappeared in almost every MasonicJournal and magazine including theMissouri Lodge of Research, theIllinois Lodge of Research, the Phi-lalethes magazine and the officialjournals of the Northern and South-ern Jurisdictions of the ScottishRite. In the Royal Arch Masonmagazine he wrote on such sub-jects as Freemasonry and the

Church, Masonic Oddballs andEdgar Allan Poe and Freemasonry.

A most significant honorcame to him when three of hispapers were selected for publica-tion in the transactions of QuatuorCoronati Lodge No. 2076, the pre-mier research lodge located inLondon, England.

An additional honor cameto him later when he was invited tobecome a member of this presti-gious body; one of only a fewAmerican Masons to be so chosen.Unfortunately, the final summonsfrom the Grand Architect came tohim before he could be investedwith this membership.

I first met illustrious BrotherCerza when I became a member ofthe Scottish Rite Speakers Bureauof which he served as the Chair-man. We met together andbecame close friends. He appearedto sense in me some potential forMasonic scholarship, which hadpenetrated so deeply into hisbeing. He encouraged me to directmy fraternal endeavors towardMasonic education and research.

The deep knowledge of theCraft, its history and symbolism,where his real passion as they wereto become mine. Alphonse Cerzaalways nurtured and guided me.He honed my writing skills; themany articles, books and papers Ihave authored over the span ofyears are a reflection of his person-al confidence.

Of all the monumental liter-ature which flowed from his prolif-ic mind, the pinnacle for AlphonseCerza was his personal philosophywhich governed his earthly life;"When one becomes a Freemason,the lessons learned from the sym-bolic degrees reflect the basicmoral and ethical principles whichcaused me to become aware of aphilosophy that I always had pos-sessed within my being."

He stated further, "My phi-losophy coincides with my general

thoughts of life because both areintended to serve the same pur-pose."

The time came for him toshare his great intellect with thosein the celestial Lodge above. Godcalled Alphonse Cerza home onApril 11, 1987, after an earthly pil-grimage of 81 years. In searchingfor a proper epitaph for this singu-lar man and Mason, I came uponthese words penned in 1883 byJoaquin Miller:

Honor and glory forever more To this good man, gone to rest; Peace on the dim Plutonic shore, Rested in the land of the blest.

* * * * *Reprinted by permission from

the Masonic Service Association(MSA) of North America, SilverSpring, MD

Alphonse Cerza was a trueMasonic giant. His writings are stillpopular today. Our (MSA) cataloglists several digests authored byBro. Cerza and they continue to berequested.

MSA is truly grateful to Dr.and Brother Stephen Greenberg forsharing his thoughts and memoriesof one of Freemasonry's most pro-lific writers-Alphonse Cerza.

Brother Greenberg is a PMof Lawn Lodge No. 815 in Oak-land, Illinois and also a PM and Fel-low of the Illinois Lodge ofResearch.

-Editor


Magical Mystery DonorThe 32nd degree Masonic Learning Center in Milwaukee, WI held a walk-a-thon on October 23, 2005.

As they walked, the group encountered a man riding a bike. Oddly, A security guard accompanied the cyclist.The man recognized the walk was a fundraiser. He stopped and asked the walkers what their charity was. Uponbeing told the purpose was to assist Dyslexic Children, the man immediately took $100 from his pocket andmade a donation. The man was Paul McCartney, who was in town for a concert that evening.

"The Shriners". Everybodyloves the Shriners. I have talkedwith a lot men and women whowould join the Shrine based uponthe works they are most noted for:hospitals for crippled children, hos-pitals for burn victims and othercharities. A good percentage oftheir monies come from the mostnoted public events – The ShrineCircus and in some areas, Rodeosand Air Shows. But, what mostpeople don’t realize is that in orderto be a Shriner you must be aMason first. "The Masons". Thosewords can conjure up more argu-ments and opinions than a politicaldebate: some good, some bad, andsome indifferent. But why doesbeing a Mason stir up such contro-versy from all over the spectrumespecially from some Shriners? Toanswer that question let us take alook at some basics.

From the First Degree welearn that "Freemasonry is a beauti-ful system of morals, veiled in alle-gory and illustrated by symbols…"

This first degree statementsums up the entire attitude andpurpose of our ritual, regardless ofthe Appendant body. When wetrace the history of our ritual to itsearliest roots we find influencesfrom the church along with otherinfluences. During the time of ritu-al development those symbols webase our moral lessons on wereused by various religious groups toimpress upon the minds and heartsof the people the spiritual lessonscontained within the Great Light of

Masonry. Most of the people dur-ing that time period could neitherread nor write and so, to impartthose lessons, the great ministersof the era used common everydaytools and implements to representthe great moral and spirituallessons.

Hints of Masonic ritual havebeen used and have caused a greatinfluence in the ceremonies ofmany other fraternal organizationsthroughout the world; from collegefraternities to others like the OddFellows and such. It is for that basisthat we, as Masons, being the influ-ence of so many other organiza-tions, have a great moral and his-torical responsibility to keep ourceremonies of initiation ritualistical-ly executed as accurately as possi-ble. Considering today’s atmos-phere and sentiment surroundingthe fraternity, we owe it to our can-didates to perform our ritual withadmired expertise. It is the veryfirst impression he receives of whatit will mean to be a member of ourfraternity.

The impression he receivesfrom the "Blue Lodge" degrees hasa huge impact on his beginningimpressions of any degrees hereceives from the York Rite, Scot-tish Rite and the Shrine. EachAppendant body has its seriousportion of ritual. The Shrine cere-monial has some of the most beau-tiful work in all of Masonry, espe-cially the lecture. The same holdstrue for both the Scottish Rite andYork Rite. If we, as Masons, per-

form our Blue Lodge work with acasual approach, wouldn’t thataffect the attitude of a candidategoing into the Shrine, York Rite andScottish Rite bodies? Would hetake the organizations seriously?Does it not make sense that hissubconscious impressions of thedegrees already received can affecthis participation in our fraternity atany of the bodies?

On a different aspect, whatdoes a casual approach to any ritu-al teach the candidate about ourown personal lives from his point ofview? He could make the assump-tion that if the ritual ceremonies arehaphazard then the Lodge or Tem-ple is run in the same manner andthe leadership and influence of thebrethren are of the same caliber.This is not an accurate reflection,but, perception is reality in a candi-date’s eyes.

To expand further, in theFirst Degree of the Blue Lodge andat the opening of lodge the Masterrecites Psalm 133. "Behold, howgood and how pleasant it is forBrethren to dwell together in unity.It is like the precious ointmentupon the head that ran down uponthe beard, even Aaron’s beard thatwent down to the skirts of his gar-ments. As the dew of Hermon, andas the dew that descended uponthe mountains of Zion, for there theLord commanded the blessingeven life forever more."

Some of us have lost sightof this basic tenet of our fraternity.Examine with me this scripture and

Ritual Unityby Douglas H, Reece, DDGL 7th Masonic District of Missouri


how it is the basis of our success.Behold, how good and

how pleasant it is for brethren todwell together in unity —Unity is,according to this scripture, a goodand a pleasant thing; especiallyamong brethren—members of thesame family, of the same Christiancommunity, and of the same nation-- and why not among the greatfamily of Masonry? On the otherhand, disunion is bad and hateful.The former is from the Great Lightof Masonry and reflects the attitudein heaven; the latter, as somewould believe, comes from thedomain of Satan.

It is like the precious oint-ment—the composition of this holyanointing oil may be seen in Exo-dus 30:23; sweet cinnamon, sweetcalamus, cassia lignea, and oliveoil. The odor of this must havebeen very agreeable, and serveshere as a metaphor to point out theexquisite excellence of BrotherlyLove and Affection.

Ran down upon the

beard—the oil was poured uponthe head of Aaron so profusely asto run down upon his garments. Itis customary in the east to pour outthe oil on the head so profusely asto reach every limb and serves asthe anointing from God to a highercalling; like being a Priest or King.

As the dew of Hermon,and as the dew that descendedupon the mountains of Zion—Thiswas not Mount Zion, in Jerusalem,but Sion, which is a part of Hermon,see Deuteronomy 4:48: "MountSion, which is Hermon. "On thismountain the dew is very copious.Mr. Maundrell, noted professor ofBiblical Studies, says that "with thisdew, even in dry weather, theirtents were as wet as if it had rainedthe whole night." This seems toshow the strength of the compari-son.

For there—where this unityis.

The Lord commanded theblessing—That is, an everlastinglife. There he pours out his bless-

ings, and gives a long and happylife.

Masonry’s history is longand distinguished with success andwith successful members, whohave set the example for us by fol-lowing and living up to this basictenet taught in every meeting. Agood percentage, a very importantpercentage, of the candidate’s per-ception of our fraternity is beinginfluenced by what he hears andsees during the ceremonies of initi-ation as well as from the brethren inthe words we say and our actions.

The candidate will typicallyremember, at best, ten percent ofwhat he went through anyway.Why not make that ten percent alasting impression of unity andshow this unity throughout all ofthe bodies of our fraternity?

It is like wildfire on the prairie. The new ChildIdentification Program of the Masonic Childrens' Foun-dation "MOCHIP" is catching on with Lodges all overthe State of Missouri.

With the support of Grand Master Thompson atthe Grand Masters conference of NorthAmerica in 2004 and Grand MasterRevelle in 2005, the Masonic ChildrensFoundation started down the road todevelop the most comprehensiveChild ID program in the MasonicWorld.

Teaming with Crossmatch tech-nologies and some very dedicatedMasons from all parts of the state theMOCHIP program was born. After technical develop-ment and training the first events were held in Augustof 2005 in Brookfield and Marceline. Since that timeover 1,000 children have been identified in Missouriwith a program that consists of a "rink" computer diskthat contains photographs, fingerprints and personaldata for the child, a tooth print wafer that captures thechild’s dental impression and DNA sample, two lami-nated ID Cards, all of which is given to the parents orguardians of the children. All of the digital ID material

can be transmitted over the internet by law enforce-ment personal in the case the child is lost or missing.

At the time of the writing of this article, 33Lodges in the Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri haverequested MOCHIP events. All these events are oper-

ated by dedicated volunteers. To makethe program grow the Foundation is inneed of computer savvy individualswho would like to volunteer time atlocal events in various regions of thestate. If you have knowledge of com-puters, networking and the ability towork in Microsoft programs pleasecontact the Masonic Childrens Founda-tion through the Grand Lodge Office.

Each event needs, what we call a "Guru" If you wouldlike to make a difference in the lives of children pleasebecome a MOCHIP volunteer. Training for all new"Gurus" will be provided.

The cost of the MOCHIP program for disposableitems is about $3.00 per child; this includes computerdisk, tooth wafer, ID cards, bags and printing of mate-rials. Also the program encompasses state of the artfingerprint devices and laptop computers. At the pre-sent time the Foundation has purchased one set of

A Chance To CHIP In and Make a Difference

continues on next page


equipment. With one set of equip-ment, one MOCHIP event canhappen on a weekend. The Foun-dation is, at the present, tellingLodges that weekends are bookedinto June and we have to tellLodges to find another weekendfor their event or wait till nextyear.

Contributions to theMasonic Childrens Foundation, a501(c) (3) tax deductible charity,are tax deductible. Help the Foun-dation's goal of reaching any childin Missouri who would like orneed the program. If you or yourLodge would like to support someaspect of the Foundations workplease contact a Board member orthe Grand Lodge office.

The MOCHIP program,Missouri Masons helping Chil-dren, can be used to let yourneighbors and friends in our com-munities see the good work thatour craft has done for ages. Makea difference, support the MOCHIPprogram. Sponsor an event, helpwith the funding of the programor volunteer your time and exper-tise.

Join the fun and share inthe rewards from brethren work-ing together.

Gail S Turner President John W Hess Vice PresidentDavid Ramsey Board MemberJon Broyles Board Member

A Chance To CHIP In and Make a Difference continued

Suppose you go to yourdoctor and find out you need brainsurgery. He gives you two refer-rals. You go into the office of thefirst surgeon and start sizing him upthe minute you walk in his door.Nice office, leather chairs, degreeon the wall, looks successful. Onhis expansive walnut desk sits anice, leather-bound volume, Clini-cal Aspects of Cranial Surgery andPost Operative Techniques.Unabridged, no less.

You talk to the guy andmove on to your next referral. Youwalk into the second surgeon'soffice. Nice office, leather chairs,degree on the wall, looks success-ful. On his expansive walnut desksits a gaudy yellow and blackpaperback book, Brain Surgery forDummies.

Who you gonna choose?It's a no-brainer, pun intended. Ihave never liked the concept of the"Dummies" guides. I'm not a dum-my, thank you, and I don't think thislittle tongue-in-cheek line of book

titles is amusing. Maybe I shouldlighten up. Anyway, I don't lieawake at night thinking about it, Ijust don't buy the books.

So a couple months ago,I'm surfing around and land onAmazon.com. Amazon, of course,has joined the Big-Brother consor-tium. This means the instant I gothere, it figures out what kind ofbooks I buy and it hurls them at me.It's scary. On this particular 'visit,'as they call them, I began wadingthrough the clutter when... Ithought I saw... Couldn't be... Ohyeah... You can't mistake that big,ugly yellow and black design... Oh,no. I was stunned. Freemasons forDummies.

At that moment, an evilforce took control of my body.Resistance, as they say, was futile. Istruggled as my mouse slowlymoved toward the picture of thebook. I fought as I clicked on it. Iagonized as I put it in my shoppingcart. And I wrestled with my veryexistence as I pushed the button-

of-no-return, "CONFIRM PUR-CHASE." Silence engulfed theroom as my confirmation pagecame up. I dropped my mouseand slowly backed away from thecomputer sobbing, "What have Idone?"

Days passed. The worlddid not end. I nearly forgot myheinous deed. Then, one after-noon I came home and thatunmistakable brown box was sit-ting on my porch. I picked it up,looked around to make sure noneof the neighbors was watchingand hustled it inside. Tremblinghands unwrapped the package.Frozen in time, I held it: My veryown "key to the history, beliefs,and rituals of Freemasonry."

I fanned the pages. Ilooked at the index, table of con-tents and "cheat sheet." Lightningdid not strike. I sat down. I read.And... Keep this to yourself, OK?I enjoyed. I learned. I foundmyself reading a book that is wit-ty, informative, and comprehen-sive in less than 400 pages.

The book is a journey. It isnot a journey through thedegrees. That's there, but youkind of have to dig for it. It is ajourney through the entire spec-trum of Freemasonry. Name aMasonic topic and I'll bet it'sthere, maybe not in the depth aresearcher would want, butenough to get a good start. TheMorgan affair? Check. The sym-bolism from the degree lecturesyou may have slept through onceor twice? Check. Anti-masonry?You bet. The Mystic Order of theVeiled Prophets of the EnchantedRealm of North America? Yep.The Regius Manuscript? Thewhole thing. All that stuff goingon in France I really don't under-stand but that has gotten somegrand lodges in the US andaround the world in hot water?Not only is it there, read this bookand you'll understand it. WhereFreemasonry came from? Most ofthe theories. Where Freemasonryis going? Most of the speculation.

Freemasons for... WHAT?!By Steve Harrison, PM


Masonic Secrets? NO.No secrets in this book. I

have to qualify this. I have a rule. Ifit's encoded in my cipher, I keepquiet about it. I don't know if that'sTHE rule, but it's MY rule. This bookreveals some of this. For example,the book reveals everything aboutthe meaning of the Letter "G".Everything. I don't know about theauthor's cipher, but in mine, thesecond meaning is encrypted.Maybe I'm splitting hairs. Maybenot. I'll get over it. Beyond this,however, there are no secrets in thebook. No grips, due-guards, signs,passwords, whatever. No non-Mason will ever read this book andthen work his way into a lodge.Unless the only question they ask iswhat the Letter "G" means.

I learned a lot reading thisbook. We all know Masonic juris-dictions do things differently butI've never made any kind of a studyof what they do differently. Takingthe book at face value (something Irarely do) we in Missouri are odd-

balls because our Lodges have aMarshall. I learned some poignantthings about Masons at war – why,for example William McKinleybecame a Mason. Like most of us Iam very familiar with the ShrineHospitals. The book tells why andwhere they started, something I didnot know. In general, I learnedabout Masonry around the worldand through the ages. Oh, yeah,and that French mess, too.

The Author, ChristopherHodapp, Has done a very nice jobof organizing this book. He does itin an easy-to-read manner. Hissense of humor shows through. Hehas thrown in information frompersonal experiences but the bookis all about Freemasonry, not allabout him. He has also includedmany sidebar stories, which add tothe depth of the book.

In spite of its silly title, thebook is solid. I think most Freema-sons would enjoy reading it. Betteryet, someone thinking about join-ing the craft would get an incredi-

bly good and useful overview ofthe fraternity, which might helphim to make that decision. And forthe new brother, this would be aninvaluable way to pick up a lot ofmaterial right from the start, espe-cially in a state that no longerrequires proficiencies. I've decidedwhenever I am the first line signerof a petition, the candidate gets acopy as a gift.

One more thing about thatinane title – shouldn't it be "Freema-sonry for Dummies" instead? I readon one of the bulletin boards I fre-quent that actually was the originaltitle, but the publisher changed it.Why? Because there are moreInternet searches for "Freemasons"than for "Freemasonry." Those mar-keting demons... they're every-where.

And what's next? Reliablesources tell me The CompleteIdiot's Guide to Freemasonry by Dr.S. Brent Morris is pending publica-tion. I can't stand it.

Schools ofInstruction

April 22, 2006,9:00AM

Butler Lodge #254Butler, Missouri

May 20, 20069:00AM

Jewel Lodge #480Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Michael F. Armstrong, RGL, Region C

~ NOTICE ~

ISSUE DEADLINESummer, 2006 April 11, 2006Fall, 2006 July, 11, 2006Winter, 2006 October 10, 2006Spring, 2007 January 9, 2007

Missouri FreemasonDEADLINES


Cooper Lodge Celebrates Two 50Year Master Masons

On November 22, 2005 it gaveCooper Lodge No. 36 great honorto present Brother Master Mason &Noble Wade Davis at the alterwhen he knelt to take his obliga-tion, this time receiving his 50 year

service award pin. The eveningstarted with a dinner in his honorand the award was presented byWorshipful Master Eddie Fisher withChaplain Jim Painter. Wade’s wife,Gwen attached his 50 year pin.(Pictured on the left) Congratula-tions and thank you for your ser-vice to our Lodge and BoonslickShriners Club.We also want to recognize MasterMason, Robert O. Herfurth, whoreceived his 50 year service pinand award at his home on Tuesday,November 29, 2005. Bob has beena member of Cooper Lodge No. 36located at 717 Main Street inBoonville for 50 years and been amember of the Grand Lodge ofAF&AM of Columbia, Missouri for 50years. Members that were presentfor this occasion were Wade Davis,also a 50 year member of Cooper

Lodge No. 36 and a long timefriend of Brother Herfurth, Bill R. Sul-livan, Secretary of Cooper LodgeNo. 36 and Eddie Fisher, Master ofCooper Lodge No. 36. We want tocongratulate Brother Herfurth on awell deserved accomplishment.(Pictured on the right)(Information submitted by Sam Thompsonof Cooper Lodge No. 36)

Arlington Lodge #346 A.F. & A.M.Dixon, MO: Past Master NormanPorter receives his 50 Year MasonicJewel at the regular stated commu-nication held Tuesday, December20th, 2005. Also taking part in theceremony was Norman's son, PastMaster Troy Porter who was home forChristmas from his deployment toIraq. Troy stated, "It is a great plea-sure to see a fellow Mason receivehis 50 year pin and even more whenhe just happens to be your ownfather." Past Master Norman Porterhas been a member in good stand-ing of the Masonic fraternity sinceAugust 7, 1955. Pictured is Troy, pre-senting Norman with his 50 year Jewel,as Arlington's Worshipful Master DoyleGeisler reads the citation from the Mis-souri Grand Lodge and Senior DeaconSteve Martin looks on.

Brother Marvin Searcy of WesternStar Lodge #15, A. F. & A. M., Winston,Missouri, was presented his 50-yearpin in an open meeting on Sunday,Oct. 23, 2005. Brother Bob Sutton ofWestern Star made the presentation,and Noranne Searcy, BrotherSearcy's wife, pinned on the award.Brother Searcy also received a 50-year apron and certificate. Searcyserved as Worshipful Master of Pat-tonsburg Lodge #65 from 1962 to1963, and has been Western Star'sChaplain for the past two years.About 40 members and guestsattended the presentation.

On November 13, 2005, at a recep-tion of Arrow Rock Lodge No. 55,brethren, friends, and family of BillLovin, gathered at the Lovin's homein Arrow Rock for the presentation ofhis 50-year jewel and certificate ofthe Grand Lodge of Missouri, A. F. &A. M. RWB August L. Bottom, DDGL ofthe 14th district, made the presenta-tion. The jewel was pinned on WBLovin's lapel by his wife Mary. JimHumburg, Master of Arrow RockLodge No. 55, congratulated WBLovin and thanked everyone forcoming. Pictured above left to right:Mrs. Mary Lovin, WB Bill Lovin, andRWB August Bottom.


On July 16, 2005 at Walker Lodge#605, R. W. Bro. Lawrence Cripps Pre-sented R.W. Bro Grover G. Phillips, Sr.his 50 Year pin & certificate. Bro.Grover G. Phillips, Jr. pins 50 year pinon his Father.

On November 15, 2005, Bro. WilliamM. Brenton, West Plains, MO, wasescorted to the altar of HebronLodge No. 354, by Grand Lodge Sec-retary, Ronald D. Miller, serving asMarshal, to receive his 50 YearMasonic pin. Past Grand Master, Dr.Elmer E. Revelle, serving as Master,made the presentation. Bro. Bren-ton was pinned by his wife.

On October 5, 2005,Rolla Lodge No.213 Rolla Missouri, Brother Jack Nel-son and Worshipful Brother HaroldMace (left to right in photo) werepresented the 50-year membershipaward by R.W. Brother James Small-wood, DDGM 29th Masonic district.Brothers Nelson and Mace's wivesare shown pinning the 50-year mem-bership jewel to their husband’sjackets.

WB Donald "Smokey" Woods, Mexi-co, Missouri, a member of HebronLodge No. 354, on the left, was pre-sented his Sixty Year Masonic Pinand Grand Lodge Cerfificate,December 5, 2004, by RWB JaredPrice, on the right. It was a memo-rable night for WB Woods and forHebron No. 354.

At its most recent installation of offi-cers, Galena Lodge #515, Kimber-ling City, MO, presented RWB CarnellCutbirth a plaque in commemora-tion of his 30 years of service aslodge secretary. Pictured above, WBMarvin Williams (right), outgoing WM, makesthe presentation to RWB Cutbirth.

March 21, 2005, at a regular dinnermeeting of Corinthian Lodge No.265, RWB Bobbie L. Watts presentedBrother Melvin L. Sims with his 50Year Jewel and Certificate from theGrand Lodge of Missouri. Picturedwith Brother Sims is his lovely lady Frances,pinning on his Jewel and rewarding himwith a kiss, and RWB Watts presenting himwith his certificate.

Rolla Lodge No. 213 AF & AM hon-ored Brothers Paul Null and JohnSmith with a dinner preceding thepresentation of their 50 year jeweland certificate of the Grand Lodgeof Missouri. Pictured Left to right are Mrs.Null and Brother Paul Null, Mrs. Smith andBrother John Smith. The presentationwas made by Right Worshipful Broth-er Jim Smallwood.

Mizpah-Mt. Moriah Lodge #4050 Year Presentation for Brother

Elvis HendrixPictured Left to Right Brother Dan Novak-Worshipful Master, MW Brother Wilfred G.Soutiea, Jr., PGM, Brother Elvis Hendrix andhis wife Sister Jean Hendrix.

In October 2005, Webb City Lodge#512 presented WB Richard W.Steele (left) his 50-year jewel andcertificate of the Grand Lodge ofMissouri. RWB Warren E. Carr madethe presentation.


On Tuesday, September 20, 2005members of Perseverance LodgeNo. 92, had the privilege of honor-ing Brother William E. Richard forhis 50 years in Masonry. RWB JohnWetzel presented Brother Richardhis certificate from the GrandLodge of Missouri. BrotherRichard's wife, Betty, was given thehonor of pinning the 50-year jewelto his lapel. After the presentation,Brother Richard gave a few com-ments concerning his 50 years ofMasonry.

On September 10, 2005, Harold O.Grauel Lodge #672, CapeGirardeau, held a dinner andawards ceremony for Masons withmore than 60 years of service. Sixty-five friends and brothers attended.Pictured left to right, Front Row: RWBBruce Austin, Grand Junior Warden of theGrand Lodge of Missouri, who presentedthe awards; Cecil Blaylock, 70 year mem-ber; Jim Foster, 62 year member; Judd Wil-son, 66 year member. Back row: JohnnySchlenker, WM. Not pictured: Alton Bray,Paul Bray, Charles Spradlin.

On Friday, November 25, 2005,Brookfield Lodge 86 presented 50year pins to Bro. Robt. Tivendale(left) and to Bro. Gayle Biswell(right). The pins were presented byRWB Bob O'Dell (center). There wasa large turnout of Brothers, family,and friends. The presentation waspreceded by music played by Bro.Biswell's wife, and was followed byan ice cream and cake social in thedining room.

Cooper Lodge #36 was honoredTuesday evening, 11/22/05, to pre-sent Brother and Noble Wade Daviswith his 50-year service award. Theevening started with a dinner in hishonor. Worshipful Master Eddie Fish-er made the presentation. Wade'swife, Gwen, attaches his 50-year pin.Congratulations, Brother WadeDavis, and thank you for your ser-vice to our Lodge and BoonslickShriner's Club

On February 19, 2005 at WalkerLodge #605, R. W. Bro.Stanton T.Brown presented Bro. MarcellisAlexander of Buckner Lodge #501 &dual member of Walker Lodge #605his 50 year pin & certificate.

A REAL MASONMy Brother, Masonry means moreThan just to wear a pin,

Or carrying a dues receiptSo the Lodge will let you in.

You wear an emblem on your coat,And on your hand a ring.

But, if you're not sincere at heart,This doesn't mean a thing.

It's just an outward sign to showThe world that you belong

To this Fraternal BrotherhoodThat teaches right from wrong.

What really counts lies burieddeep

Within the human breast;Masonic teaching brings it out

And puts it to the test.If you can do outside the Lodge

The things you learn within,Be just and upright to yourself

And to your fellow men;Console a brother when he's sick

Or help him when in need.Without a thought of a reward

For any act or deed;Conduct yourself in such a way

The world without can seeNone but the best can meet thebest

Laid down by Masonry;Respect and live up to your trust

And do the best you can;Then you can tell the world youare

A Mason and a Man!

Frank F. Baer

Meramec Lodge #313 in Eureka, Mis-souri was the site of a 50 year pre-sentation by the DDGM, Bro. RickWeible on November 7th. The pre-sentation took place at our alterwith the 50 year member, Bro.Michael Breen being congratulatedby Bro. Weible and Bro. Breen's wife,Paula proudly placing the pin on hiscoat.

In October 2005, Mineral Lodge#471 presented WB W. Terry James(left) his 50-year jewel and certifi-cate of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.RWB Warren E. Carr made the pre-sentation.

At an open meeting of CorinthianLodge No. 265, Brothers Albert L.Baker and Eugene E. Sellman wereto receive their 50 Year Jewel andCertificates. These two Brotherswere boyhood friends, Raised thesame day, both serving in U.S. Armyand have stayed in contact all theseyears. WB Albert Baker servedCorinthian Lodge as Worshipful Mas-ter in 1960. What a joyous occasionwhen Worshipful Master David Keymade the presentation of their Jew-els. They took great pride and joypinning on each others Jewel. Pic-tured: Brother Baker pins the jewelonto Brother Sellman as WM DavidKey watches.


With a gathering of his family at hishome in Raymore, Mo. on November15, 2005, Brother Charles E. Masonerwas presented with the 50 Year Jew-el and Certificate from the GrandLodge of Missouri. Pictured present-ing his pin is Worshipful Master EricMiller of Corinthian Lodge No. 265.Also shown is his wonderful wifeUna, pinning the Jewel on his jack-et. Brother Masoner was the SeniorWarden at Corinthian Lodge, whenhis employment required him tomove away. He has been missed byhis Brethren, attested by attendanceof 3 Past Masters.

On November 12, 2005 at a called"open meeting" at Saxton Lodge#508, WB Albert L. Smith was pre-sented his 50-year jewel and cer-tificate. There were 30 people inattendance representing his fami-ly, Fraternal Brothers and Sisters,

and friends. This Honor was inrecognition of a long and distin-guished career of service to hisLodge and his fellow Masons. ThePresenting Officers were: Present-ing Master WB Jim Jeffers, Chap-lain; WB Nathan Carrington, andSecretary WB Owen Eichstadt,Senior Deacon Bro. Neil Alley. Atthe Master's request the jewel waspinned on his lapel by his wife Jo.WB Jeffers then presented WBSmith with a plaque he had madedetailing what made WB Smith aMaster Mason. WB Smith wasescorted to the East where hespoke about his personal andMasonic memories covering thepast 50 years. Recent 50 yearrecipient RWB Robert Powell alsospoke on his memories of WBSmith. Following the presentationall were invited downstairs for fel-lowship over cake and ice cream.

On August 1, 2005, IndependenceLodge #76 presented Brother RobertW. Wagner his 50-year jewel and cer-tificate of the Grand Lodge of Mis-souri. Brother Wagner was raisedJune 10, 1955.

At a regular dinner meeting ofCorinthian Lodge No. 265, WM DavidKey had the pleasure to present a 50Year Jewel and Certificate from theGrand Lodge of Missouri, to BrotherDonald L. Quibell. Brother Quibellwas accompanied by his lovely wifeTrudy, who had just pinned his Jew-el. Plain to see she is pound of him.


Temple Gate Lodge #299 held apatriotic installation of officers for2006 on Friday, September 9, 2005.Installing officers were RWB Carl H.Terry, WM, RWB D. Eugene Wisner,Marshall, RWB Danny D. Search, SD,RWB Earl F. Bowman, Chaplain. FrontRow Bruce A. Olds, JD; WB Ben F. Pagel, Tiler;RWB Carl H. Terry, WM; WB Jack W. Comer,Chaplain; Gary L. Frost, JS. Back Row WBKale T. Payne,Treasurer; RWB Lyman I. Ridge-way, Secretary; Charles L. Frost II, JW;Charles L. Frost, Marshall; Todd W. Sandsness,SW. Not pictured: James T. Petree, SS; RustyL. Verguth, SD.

Installation of Officers - SedaliaLodge #236 held an open installa-tion of officers Mon. Oct. 17, 7:30 PMat 601 West Broadway. The masterof ceremonies, RW Bro. James CDuzan, PDDGM introduced theinstalling officers. They were:Installing Master, RWB Michael FArmstrong; Regional Grand LecturerRegion C, Installing Chaplain,WBRon Butler and Installing Marshal,WB Van M White. Installed as WorshipfulMaster was W. George McConnell (center).Other officers installed were (L to R) Bro.Floyd Stevenson,JS; Bro.Kenneth Norton,JD;RWB James Duzan, Chaplain; WB DavidMiller, JW; WB David Wiedeman, Treasurer;McConnell; RWB Robert Weikal, Secretary;Bro. H. H. Luetjen, SW; WB John McCormack,Tiler; Bro. Donald Walker, SD and Bro. JamesHamilton, Marshal. Not in picture, Bro. JStanley Davis, SS. Picture by James Rissler.

The brethren of Knob Noster Lodge#245 provided a courtesy CountryWestern concert at the Missouri Vet-erans' Home, Warrensburg, Sun Oct.9, 2005. The "Country Ordaras"Band is directed by Past Master Bro.John Cecilia, a veteran. The Lodgeserved cake and ice cream to theveterans attending. Worshipful Mas-ter David Grover, also a veteran,assisted in serving approximately40 Masons, their families andguests. The Band also performed aseries of special shows for Thanks-giving and Christmas.

East Gate Lodge #630 Installation ofofficers on September 24, 2005. 1stRow: Lawrence Dysart, Raymond Vaughn,Daniel Sewing, WB Dennis Abernathy, LloydC. Callwell, Al Vaughn, David Welch; 2ndRow: David Miller, WB Gerald Pritchett,installing Chaplain, WB Fred Donohue,Installing Sr. Deacon, RWB Ed Schubert,Installing Master, RWB William VanMeter,Installing Marshall, WB Forrest B. Lowe, WBHenry K. McDaniel.

Adelphi Lodge #355 Creates aPartnership and More. . .

In 2005 Adelphi Lodge #355 wasproud to be able to assist its localMiddle School (its grade and HighSchool are located in anothertown) in contributing $100.00toward its lunch program that pro-vides both breakfast and lunches toimpoverished children and alsopurchased shoes for 2 children.But it did not just stop there. Theyhave also gone out on their ownand made an arrangement with thetown Chamber of Commerce to fur-nish the labor to paint the storagebuilding in the baseball park andduring the Thanksgiving Holidaythey had a fund raiser dinner, where

they provided and delivered dinnerfor the elderly residents of the lowincome residential housing in theirarea.Adelphi Lodge is putting its bestfoot forward in not just helping thechildren in its community butp alsoextending that assistance on itsown accord and through its ownfunding to include other areaswhere help is needed.Congratulations for your achieve-ments in the Creating A PartnershipProgram and congratulations forthe achievements you are makingamong your community.(Information submitted by: MarshallWelch)

Worshipful Master Phillip Lawson ofWindsor Lodge #29, Windsor, MOPresents a $100 donation to the2005 Windsor Childrens' Christmasfund.


Criterion Lodge #586 recently heldits installation of officers with the fol-lowing brothers assuming theirrespective offices as follows: WB DonGardner, WM; Sam Porter, SW; Ralph Hanlin,JW; RWB Jenny Gaddis, Treasurer; WBWayne Lawson, Secretary. Installing Masterfor the ceremony was RWB Roger R.Adams.

Mineral Lodge #471 recently held itsinstallation of officers with the fol-lowing brothers assuming theirrespective offices: WB Charles Wilkins,WM; WB John Emmert, SW; WB BobClement, JW; Jason Walker, Secretary.Installing Master for the ceremony was RWBRoger R. Adams.

Carthage Lodge # 197 recently heldits installation of officers with the fol-lowing brothers assuming theirrespective offices: WB Wade Haws,WM; RWB Rob Lewis, SW; WB Dub Haws, JW;WB Orval Bishop, Treasurer; WB Jerry Mag-gard,Secretary. Installing Master for the cer-emony was RWB Roger R. Adams.

Carl Junction Lodge #549 installedits 2006 line of officers with WB JimBates as Worshipful Master. RWBRoger R. Adams officiated asinstalling Master. Carl JunctionLodge is located at 115 N. MainStreet in Carl Junction, Missouri andwas chartered October 15, 1891.

The board of directors of the Mason-ic Temple Association of Louisiana,Missouri voted to send five hundreddollars ($500.00) to each of theGrand Lodges of Louisiana, Alaba-ma, Mississippi and Texas to beused to assist Masonic brethren thatsuffered losses in the recent Katrina-Rita storms.

On Saturday, October 15, 2005, Lath-rop Lodge #506 installed its officersfor the ensuing year. The open instal-lation was preceded by a catereddinner served in the Lathrop, Mo. 1stChristian Church Dining Room. Pic-tured left to right: front row: Harold Edwards,installing Chaplin; Brian K. Kennedy, S.D.;Corwin D. Henry, S.W.; Jeff Jones, WM; Gre-gory E. Golden, J.W.; James A. Edwards,Marshall; Richard "Skip" Wildermood, S.S.;Robert "Art" Gentry, Sec; Back row: Aaron J.Greer, Chaplin; WB Jay K. Maddick, Treas.;RWB Bob O'Dell, R.G.L.; Installing Master;Michael A. Marvin, S.S; Donald H. Griffin, Tiler;RWB Donald E. Gilkerson, DDGL, InstallingMarshall.

Belle Lodge held its installation ofofficers July 9, 2005. Four genera-tions represented Masonic Lineagefor the Installation of WM GrantEdward Stockton on July 9, 2005 forthe year 2005/2006. Left to right -Uncle, WB Michael E. Stockton, PM – 1976;Grandfather, WB H. Edward Stockton, PM. -1960 and 1969; WB Grant Stockton -2005/2006; Father, WB Ronnie G. Stockton,PM. - 1983.In addition, Grant's mother, ChrisStockton, was in Job’s Daughtersand as a young girl was HonorQueen in a St. Louis Bethel. She isnow a member of the Order of theEastern Star. His Great-Grandfather,Bro. Albert Stockton was a memberof Belle Lodge along with a GreatUncle, Jack Stockton. WB "Bony"Stockton was a Great, Great, Uncleand PM in 1945. Bony was Secretaryfor the Belle Lodge #373 A.F. & A.M.for many, many years.

Washington Lodge #87, AF & AM, ispleased to announce the new mem-bership of Ryan Robison, who wasraised a Master Mason on Novem-ber 22, 2005. Ryan lives in Lock-wood, MO. and is the Police Chief forthat city. Our Lodge Master said hewas sure that Ryan would be ofmuch help to our Lodge and that hewould be instrumental in helpingkeep the traditions of Freemasonryalive and well. Pictured above: RyanRobinson (r) and WB John Shoemaker (l).Submitted by Don Adams, Asst. Sec'y.


The Missouri Grand Lodge was wellrepresented at a special night hon-oring the contributions of the lateRight Worshipful Brother CharlesGoodman to Freemasonry. The eventwas presented by the new Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79. RWB Goodmanwas a Past Master of the old Polar

Star Lodge #79. Among those whoattended were (front row, left to right):Most Worshipful Brother Vern Schneider; Mrs.Lucille Cummings, daughter of RWB Good-man and a special guest at the November11 event; RWB Maurice S. Brasch, a past Dis-trict Deputy Grand Master, and Most Wor-shipful Brother Reverend Doctor John C.Montgomery Jr.; and (back row, left to right)Right Worshipful Brother M. Robert Berger,Deputy Grand Master; Most WorshipfulBrother Earl K. Dille; Right Worshipful BrotherRichard L. Smith, Junior Grand Marshall, andRight Worshipful Brother Randall M. Berger,past District Deputy Grand Master and cur-rent Worshipful Master of Polar Star-Rose HillLodge #79. The many in attendanceshared stories about RWB Goodmanand enjoyed an evening of fraternalfriendship. Photograph by RWB JonBroyles.

On the Third Saturday in October,October 21st, Perseverance LodgeNo. 92, Louisiana, MO, will have itsannual Grand Master's Breakfast.Promptly at 4:00 A.M. the Worship-ful Master will rap the gavel andthe proceedings will be underway.Once the lodge is opened, the Wor-shipful Master will welcome all visi-tors, and introduce his officers. TheGrand Master will then be formallyreceived, given the Grand Honors,and escorted to the East, where hewill deliver his message to thebrethren.Promptly at 5:00A.M. the lodge willbe closed and the brethren will

retire to the dining room for abreakfast of ham and eggs. Themeal will be free, but a free-willoffering will be collected and usedto cover the expense of the meal.Remaining funds will be donated tothe Masonic Home.

Five St. Louis area lodges cooperat-ed to provide holiday baskets todozens of local families a weekbefore Christmas. The lodges areNaphali Lodge #25, Polar Star-RoseHill Lodge #79, Tuscan Lodge #360,Ben Franklin Lodge #642 and Floris-sant Lodge #668. Each 55-poundbox contained such staples as aham, potatoes, rice, canned vegeta-bles and fruit, soups and cannedmeats. The boxes distributed bylodge members to families with chil-dren weighed more than 55 pounds– they contained toys, books, color-ing books and even diapers. TheLodges contributed money andBrother Power to pack and deliverthe boxes. Many of the Brethreninvolved in the work said it shouldbe an annual event and perhapseven extend the project to includemore lodges.

Hogles Creek Lodge # 279, Wheat-land, MO, held its Installation of Offi-cers on September 1, 2005. Afterinstallation, the Brothers openedLodge for a stated communication.Front row: Bill Beatty, Installing Offi-cer; Carl Carpenter, Installing Offi-cer; Doug Anderson, Marshall; Con-rad A. Pitz, Sr., WM; Mike Hendrick-son, JW; David Ilo, JD; Gregory Ross;Greg Ross, Installing Officer; Backrow: John Donohue, Treasurer; JohnCawyer, SS; Robert Bulmer, Secre-tary; Henry Garcia, Chaplain; Ver-non Cox, JS; Ken Holmes, Tyler. Notshown: Palmer Bishop, SW; WarnerKeller, SD.

In July 2005, the members of TyroLodge #12 and Potosi Lodge #131built a wheelchair ramp at thehome of Brother O.W. "Bill" Mallownear Potosi. Construction of theramp took two workdays. After theramp was completed WM CecilIsaac praised the effort and Broth-er Mallow expressed his apprecia-tion to the members who assisted.Brother Mallow is a member ofPotosi Lodge #131 and an hon-orary member of Tyro Lodge #12.


On November 7, 2005, MeramecLodge #313 of Eureka, Missouri pre-sented a check for $500.00 to theAmerican Red Cross of Missouri forDisaster relief. Worshipful MasterBob Bauer presented the check toCori Wirth, Adm. Asst.

Last year Caruthersville Lodge #461instituted a new function, PancakeDay. The Lodge plans to make this a

regular event on 5th Saturdays.Funds raised at this event will go tolocal charities including the Salva-tion Army, the Missouri VeteransHome and the Caruthersville Lodgebuilding fund. Pictured are MikeAkins, a pancake chef and one ofCaruthersville's newest MasterMasons, along with his wifeMichelle. In the background, Broth-er B. Doug Graue prepares anotherbatch of flapjacks.

Waynesville lodge # 375 A.F. & A.M.held it's annual installation of offi-cers for the ensuing year at thelodge hall in Waynesville on Sept.22, 2005. The officers for the ensuingyear are, Worshipful Master, Paul W.Frantzen; Senior Warden, Roy L.Gilkey; Junior Warden, Gerald W.Jones; Treasurer, Richard R.McCauley; Secretary, Carl W. O'Dell;Chaplain, Donald E. Ripley;Marsahll, Nelson G. Morgan; SeniorDeacon, Wayne A. Gerdes; JuniorDeacon, Robert G. Baker; SeniorSteward, Douglas C. Rose Jr.; JuniorSteward, Brian k. Jenner; TilerEdward L. Conley.

Smiling Faces Decorate Holiday Party

Smiles on dozens of children’s faceswere the highlight of Polar Star-RoseHill Lodge #79’s annual holiday par-ty at the lodge’s remodeled andrenovated building on Saturday,Dec. 3, 2005.Silly Jilly the clown was a crowdfavorite as she made balloon ani-mals and had the children join herin saying "magic" words as togeth-er they mysteriously rubbed colorsfrom their clothes into a black andwhite coloring book and made ani-mals appear and disappear withina black bag.Her popularity, however, put her insecond place in most children’sminds when the jingle of bellsannounced the arrival of SantaClaus (also known as Right Wor-shipful Brother Harry O. Weber).Santa had a gift for every child and,much to the children’s delight,allowed any child to sit on his lapwhile parents and grandparentsused up several rolls of film.And if you were 12 or under (or per-haps even older), the refreshmentsserved after Santa had to leavewere a treat for the palette. Theserving tables groaned with theweight of hot dogs and buns, chips,ice cream, Christmas cookies, sodaand other tasty morsels.

Silly Jilly entertains a few of the many chil-dren who gathered around her as shemade balloon animals and performedmagic tricks for them.

Elizabeth Abigail Stolzberg, dressed in hernew Santa Claus costume, was one ofdozens of children who got an individualvisit with the jolly old elf.

No party is complete without refreshmentsand after Santa Claus left the lodgeBrethren and their families broke bread –and hot dogs and other good stuff –together.


On October 3, 2005, MeramecLodge #313 of Eureka, Mo. present-ed a check for $300.00 to the Salva-tion Army of St. Louis, Missouri. Pre-senting the check to Major LonellRichardson City Commander, isMaster Bob Bauer.

On October 6 Neosho MasonicLodge #247 held its annual installa-tion of officers. Pictured in front row fromleft is Tim Lewis, Senior Deacon, George PaulInstalling Chaplain; Mark Franks, Treasurer;RW Brother Mike Rothermel, Installing Mas-ter; Randy Haggard Junior Steward; RyanHaggard, Marshall. Back row RW BrotherDavid Watson, Installing Marshall; Matt Ruth,Junior Warden; Bill Dobbs, Master; DaleRamsey, Senior Warden; Tim Booyer, SeniorSteward and Pete Williams, Tiler.

On December 19th, 2005, McDonaldLodge #324 conferred a First Degreeupon Bryan L. Stark. There werethree generations of Starks in atten-dance. Confering the Degree andgiving the Lecture was Right Wor-shipful Master Rex Stark Sr., Bryan'sFather; Rex Stark Jr.; Uncles LeeStark, Shawn Stark,Great UncleRobert Stark, and his son BobbyStark, seven in all.

Tom Burch, Secretary ofCaruthersville Lodge #461 (left)and WM Al Holland present JenniferBurch a check from the Lodge

enabling her to attend "Girls State"this past summer. The AmericanLegion Auxiliary sponsors GirlsState. These students are the bestof the best – only 1 or 2 applicantsare selected from each MissouriSchool to attend. They come asindividuals and leave as a team.They are taught the one thing thatmakes us great democracy. Theybuild an entire state government inonly one week, from the first day ofcity council meetings to a joint ses-sion of congress by visitors' night. Atthe end of the week, two people areselected to attend the Girls Nationin Washington DC.

On December 18, 2005, FellowshipMasonic Lodge in Joplin hosted theannual Widows’ Tea. The ladies andguests were treated with deliciouscroissants, a variety of cakes, teaand coffee in the dinning room ofthe beautiful and historic ScottishRite Masonic Center, which was fes-tively decorated with holly, elegantchina settings and linen tablecloths.The Widows’ Tea is one of the long-time traditions that make being amember of Joplin’s FellowshipLodge special.

On October 14, 2005, at FellowshipLodge #345, in Joplin during a regu-lar communication, WM KevinKnewtson asked longtime memberRWB Warren Carr to stand while thebrethren sang "Happy Birthday" tohelp Warren celebrate his 97th birth-day. Warren Carr is a Past DDGM, a33o Scottish Rite Mason, plus hebelongs to the White Shrine, EasternStar and the York Rite, and is a regu-lar at Fellowship and attends manyof the Masonic functions and eventsin Southwest Missouri. When you seeWarren and tell him it’s good to seehim, he always replies, "It’s good tobe seen." Warren is a true gentle-man and may be Missouri’s mostactive senior Master Mason.

Warren Lodge # 74 AF&AM enter-tained Warren Star #254, O.E.S. to afirst annual Harvest Dinner. Fall dec-orations were appropriately used forthe joint gathering on the evening ofOctober 25, 2005. A delicious dinnerof ham, roast beef and the trim-mings was served. WM Bro. JimArcher, as MC of the evening, pre-sented the program of introductions,speeches and reminisces followed.All agreed this to be a good timeevent and a must for an annualevent. Preceding the dinner, SisterMary Wood, Warren Star OES organ-ist, presented a program of pianoselections for our enjoyment.


On November 8, 2005 ZeredathaLodge No. 189 held its annual instal-lation of officers. WB Lonnie Morris,Worshipful Master; WB MarcusTyrrell, Senior Warden; WB LarryCrawford, Junior Warden; RWB DaleByran, Treasurer; WB LeRoy Salmon,Secretary; WB William Stewart,Senior Deacon; WB Pat Jerkins,Junior Deacon; Bro Kyle Stocking,Senior Steward; Bro Josh Miester,Junior Steward; WB Tim Sarver,Chaplain; WB Ken Wallace, Mar-shall; WB Charles Weakley, Tiler.Installing Officers were: RWB LarryLambing, Installing Master; RWB Her-man Collins, Installing Marshall; WBRichard Paul, Chaplain.

Southwest Heritage Lodge #681recently held its installation of offi-cers with the following brothersassuming their respective offices:WB Sam Porter, WM; John Kuehn,SW; Robert Farrar, JW; WB Ray Mood-ey, Treasurer; RWB John Pace, Secre-tary. Installing Master for the cere-mony was RWB Roger R. Adams.

Jasper Lodge #398 recently held itsinstallation of officers with the fol-lowing brothers assuming theirrespective offices: WB Harold Spren-kle, WM; WB Sam Porter, SW; JoeFrerer, JW; Joe Rice, Treasurer; WBDon Rives, Secretary. Installing Mas-ter for the ceremony was RWB RogerR. Adams.

Adelphi Lodge #355, Edgerton, heldits annual installation of Officers onSeptember 13, 2005. Officers for the2005 - 2006 term are as follows: Del-bert Weese, WM; Ron Green, SW;David Trimmer, JW; WB Marion Boyd-ston, Treasurer; Chad Arnold, Secre-tary; Curtis Wilson, SD; Aaron Babbit,JD; Brian Harris, SS; Brian Cooper,JS; RWB Marion Shafer, Chaplain;Richard Flanery, Marshal; BobbyIrvine, Tyler.

On Monday, January 9, 2006, Jack-son Lodge #82, Linneus, Missouriinstalled its officers for year 2006.The installation was preceded bythe Lodge's annual oyster stew feed.There was a large turnout with sev-eral lodges represented.Pictured left to right, front row: R.W.Bro. JohnHess, Sr. Grand Steward, (Installing Chaplin),- R.W.Bro.Bob O'Dell, R.G.L."A", (InstallingMaster), - W.Bro.Geo Teeter, Secretary, - Bro.

Dennis McQueen, S.Steward, - Bro. MarionRyan, Tiler, - Bro. Richard Butterfield, J.Dea-con, - Back Row: Bro. John Balman, J.Stew-ard, - R.W.Bro.Gail Turner, Junior Grand Dea-con, W.Master, - Bro. John Fay, S. Warden, -Bro. Arlin Devore, Chaplin, - W.Bro. DeanMcAdams, (Installing Marshal).

Waynesville Lodge #375 held achance to advance class on Nov.19, 2005 at the lodge in WaynesvilleMo. The class contained 13 candi-dates from Waynesville, one fromPlato #469 and one from Iberia#410. The Lodge opened at 8:00AMwith breakfast prior to that. We hadan excellent lunch served by W.B.Don Ripley and his wife Marjorie anda friend Paulina McMillian.

Liberty Lodge #31 held its annualinstallation of officers on Saturday,October 22, 2005. WB Q.C. "Tony"Robbins presided as installing Mas-ter, supported by WB David Witte asInstalling Marshall, RWB WayneDugan as Installing Chaplain andRWB George Morgan as InstallingSenior Deacon. Officers for 2005 -2006 are as follows: Adam L. Fauss,WM; Michael Probst, SW; WB Ray

Adkins, JW; WB Kenneth J. Aiello,Treasurer; WB Ronald L. Elliott, Secre-tary; Steve Underhill, Chaplain; DaleWheat, Marshall; Rob Dickerson, SD;WB Charlie Clymore, Sr., JD; ChadHowerton, SS; John Rutz, JS; MattAlexander, Tyler; WB Lester Brown,LEO; WB John Gibson, MHR.

To Improve Myself In Freemasonry

"All the Implements of Masonry Indiscriminately…""The Working Tools of the three Craft degrees…form

a sequential series, providing the Mason with a fullcomplement of both designing instruments and execu-tive tools. First and foremost, and all the time, theMason must observe with his Gauge, measuring theneed of the world and his fellows for his work, and con-tinue to ply his Gavel and Chisel, diligently, intelligent-ly and forcefully, with unceasing care and persever-ance. He must scrupulously obey the laws of natureand morality, acting ever on the Square, the Level, andthe Plumb Rule, studying continually Hidden Mysteriesof Nature and Science, so as to equip himself withample knowledge for whatever tasks he may under-take." — Arthur E. Powell, The Magic of Freemasonry(1924), p. 116.

In the explanation of our degrees we are told thatthe working tools of a Master Mason are "all the imple-ments of Masonry indiscriminately." Emphasis is givento one of these, but all the tools of the building tradeare included, though not always mentioned.

As Powell points out elsewhere, "these tools wereby no means chosen at random," but represent the pro-gressive development of skills at each level. When wename two working tools (24-in. gauge and the gavel)for the E.A., a third is implied—the chisel. We combinethe function of chisel with the gavel by making the lat-ter a "common gavel." A chisel assumes a gavel tostrike the blow against it to "break off the corners ofrough stones." The Emulation Ritual, on which MajorPowell bases his discussion, gives all three as workingtools of the E.A. They correspond with the three prin-cipal officers of the lodge. The 24-inch Gauge is usedto measure and plan the work according to the Wis-dom of the Master (Solomon); the Gavel, used to strikethe blow against the chisel, represents the Strength ofthe Senior Warden (Hiram of Tyre); and the Chisel, usedfor dressing the rough stone for use in the building, sig-nifies Beauty and the Junior Warden (Hiram Abif).

"All the properties of matter with which we areacquainted are represented, ultimately, in terms oflength measurement, whether it be their texture, hard-ness, elasticity, specific heat, strength, durability, orwhat not….The basis of all knowledge or science lies inthe use of the Gauge" (p. 40). The 24-inch gauge isnecessarily the Working Tool of the EA., because "noother tool can be used, for any useful purpose, until the24-inch Gauge has first been applied."

The Gavel represents the simplest method of apply-ing force. "It stands as a symbol of all forms of force,physical, moral, mental or spiritual…, being held up asa symbol both of the work of the hands and of the high-est part of man’s nature, his conscience" (p. 41).

Implicit in our explanation of the Gavel is the Chis-el, the essential function of which is receiving andtransmitting the force of the Gavel to cut through mat-ter. All cutting tools are forms of the chisel. Its use isnot only for "cutting off the corners of rough stones,"but to improve our character by chiseling away our"vices and superfluities."

Of the three tools, the 24-inch Gauge is a staticinstrument (useful only when held firmly in place), theothers are dynamic tools (useful only when moving andonly after the first has been put to use). The first repre-sents the mind or intelligence and is necessarily the firstand all-important tool, since it determines the usemade of every other tool. The Entered Apprenticeworks on one stone at a time and he is not concernedwith where that stone will be used or what the finalstructure will be. Thus the emphasis in the initialdegree is developing each person’s "spiritual building"or moral character.

When passing to the Fellow Craft degree, we findthree different working tools, which are not substitutedfor the previous ones, but added to them. The Plumb,the Square, and the Level are used to determine thatthe stones prepared in the quarry by Entered Appren-tices are smooth, polished, and square, and fit proper-ly into the structure. These are also the jewels of thethree principal officers and represent the manner inwhich Freemasons meet, act, and part.

Like the 24-inch Gauge, the Square is used at everystage of this work, while the Plumb and the Level areused by the Fellow Craft only on the site of the Templeitself. All three instruments are inflexible and invariable,whereas the Gavel and Chisel allow variety and indi-viduality. The first degree is moral in nature; the sec-ond, mental. The Square, the symbol upon which theentire fraternity is formed, shows relationships and theprocess of reason or knowledge.

The Plumb, based on gravity, is "the most typicalsymbol which the ingenuity of man could devise toindicate all natural laws and process, of which Gravityis the most characteristic and universal" (p. 88). TheLevel is a combination of the Square and the Plumb,i.e., Science and Nature. "The Square tells the FellowCraft to think, to use his reason; the Plumb, to studyNature; the Level to combine together his reason andthe forces of Nature" (p. 89).

We are accustomed to associate the Trowel with theThird Degree, but "all the implements of Masonry indis-criminately" are indicated for the Master Mason. At thislevel all the working tools of the two previous degreesare still used, with others added at the discretion of theMaster. The Emulation Rite surprises us with three

Working Tools for this degree: the Skirret, the Pencil,and the Compasses. Did you ever wonder what hap-pened to the Compasses, since they are part of our uni-versal symbol for Freemasonry, the Square and Com-passes?

The Skirret is clearly defined in the Emulation Rite,but we do not find it in our dictionaries. I did find it inthe Oxford English Dictionary, which quoted from twoMasonic writers. "The skirret acting on a center pinused to mark out the ground of a new building, as theskirret has a chalked line attached to it" (George Oliv-er).

All three tools, having the basic idea of a centerpoint, afford the widest scope for the Master Mason’screative or imaginative powers. No structure can bebuilt without first laying out the design of the groundon which it will stand. Once the ground plan is laid out,a limit is set that must be followed as rigidly as therequirements of the Square, Plumb, or Level.

The points of Compasses can be adjusted to any dis-tance, but once set must be kept fixed and rigid. Theycan be used to measure the length of a straight line orfor marking a curve or circle. Closed, it forms a straightline; open, it is a triangle.

The Pencil directs us to the Trestleboard, on whichthe designs are drawn. Using his knowledge and cre-ative imagination, the Master draws his designs for theworkmen to follow. From the Emulation Rite: the Pen-cil teaches us "to form in advance clear plans of whatwe intend to do, that our work may be intelligent andwell proportioned." The Master Mason must nowchoose his own work, directing and controlling thebuilding of the Temple (i.e., his own life and destiny).He no longer waits for instructions from others, "Hemust make his own plans, evolving by his own creativepowers the designs of those portions of the Holy Tem-ple which constitute his unique contribution to the per-fect structure. He has his own pencil, with which toplan, and all the tools necessary with which to execute.He has himself become an Architect and must create"(p. 116).

The importance of the working tools of the buildingtrade in the symbolic teaching of Freemasonry is onlyhinted at in the explanations for each degree. Theworking tools sum up and express in graphic form thevery essence of each degree. If you wish to delvedeeply into their meaning, you can do no better thanstudy the late Major Powell’s book mentioned above.But you will need to refer to the Emulation Rite fromEngland.

Dr. E. Otha Wingo DDGL [email protected]

POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 2579 to Grand Secretary,

6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.

missouri freemason magazine - v51n02 - 2006 spring

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