Florida Grand York Rite Mason Magazine Vol. 2 Issue 3

The Florida

York Rite Mason

As Knights Templar, do we conduct our lives according to the Chivalric code?

Is character still important to us as Masons ?

Three Related Stories: Live Respected The Importance of Character in Public Office What is Chivalry?

Vol. 2 Issue 3

Official Quarterly Publication of the Grand York Rite Masonic Bodies of Florida

The Florida York Rite Mason Magazine

Volume 2 Issue 3 October 2008

Content Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 13 Page 15 Page 17 Page 18 Page 20 Page 27 Page 30 Page 32 Page 38 Page 40 Page 41

Message from The Grand York Rite Communication Committee Words from the Grand Royal Arch Grand Chapter NPD Resolution Words from the Ninth Grand Arch Installation of 2008 - 2009 Grand Council Officers Words from the Grand Asylum Installation of 2008 - 2009 Grand Commandery Officers Live Respected The Importance of Character in Public Office What is Chivalry?

DeMolay News York Rite Masons of the Year Rules & Form News from Across the State 2009 Grand York Rite Souvenir Program Letter & Forms York Rite Jurisprudence York Rite Education - King Solomon’s Temple Part 2 York Rite Leadership - How Well Do You Delegate?

York Rite Events York Rite Items

Deadline to submit your articles, pictures, and events for our next issue is on or before December 15th.

Official E-Publication of the Florida Grand York Rite Bodies Published Quarterly by The Grand York Rite Communication Committee Members: S. K. David A. Aponte, Chairman, S. K. Charles “Chic” Cicero and M. I. Ron Blaisdell Correspondents: Exc. Elliott Corbin and S. K. Bill Horacio, Jr. 2

Message form The Grand York Rite Communications Committee

The month of October is an exciting time. In the northern states, we observe the color transformation of the leaves. In the south, snowbirds begin their annual migration to Florida escaping the upcoming harsh northern winter days. Our Florida weather becomes more agreeable to our lives. Summer is gone, fall is here and sneaking in waiting for his turn, Winter. From months of changes to months of festivities. It never fails to amaze me all these changes. It must be knowing that Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. Changes are being seen everywhere.

In the same way we observe the above changes, we can also observe the changes that are occurring in our great nation. God is no longer politically correct, the redefinition of the concept of family, the destruction of parents’ rights and the redefinition of their responsibilities, these are just some of the changes we observe in our nation. A nation was built upon our belief in God, moral and civil values, our respect and adherence to constitutional government and the guarantees of freedom it provides. Unfortunately when we look at our present-day situation, all these values and traditions that we hold dear and true, are deteriorating.

As Mason, especially York Rite Masons, we believe in three general principles: God, family and country.

From God we receive, through His Word, the rule and guide to live our lives as better men and Masons. These moral and civil values together with the concepts of respect, tolerance, loyalty, faith, courage and traditions, have fortified the main and most important social group of our society: the family. The values from His Holy Book are passed on to our children. These values and traditions are the foundation of our great nation, the United States of America.

Our Pledge of Allegiance states: “...One Nation Under God, Indivisible with Liberty and Justice for All..”

We as Masons should always be ready to protect and defend this nation, our family values and traditions .

We also must promote the ideals for which we are a symbol throughout the world. As we see these changes taking place in our society, we must as Masons, especially York Rite Masons, ask ourselves how can we make a difference? In the same way as Chivalric Knights, how can we defend, protect and promote the values and traditions that make us strong as Masons and Americans? How can we achieve this? By our involvement within our Masonic Lodges, Appendant Bodies, Communities and Government. Our character as Masons and Americans is needed.

Our present issue brings to you three articles that deal with this topic. We hope it will motivate you.

First, the Importance of Character in Public Office, reprinted with permission from the Knights Templar Magazine. Second, the oration given by Companion Fred Latsko, Past Grand Orator 2007-2008, Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Florida, at the 179th Grand Lodge Annual Communication . Third, “What is Chivalry?” by our Grand Generalissimo, S. K. Charles “Chic” Cicero.

Final Words from all the members of the Communication Committee, we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and pray to thank God for the family we have, for the Masonic family we have and for the all the blessings we received during this year. May the celebration of Christmas, spark in each of us a spirit of giving and caring to all mankind, more especially our families, our Masonic family, our communities and friends. To all our Jewish brethren and their families, our same wishes at Chanukah. May the Light of the Almighty God guide us all in our endeavours and give us health to accomplish our endeavours.

Fraternally

S. K. David A. Aponte, Chairman 3

Words From the Grand Royal Arch

By Most Excellent James P. Rudman Grand High Priest 2008-2009 Companions Six months have come and gone.

A lot of activities have occupied our time, visits to some our Chapters, two Table Chapters, our York Rite District Meetings, a few of the Grand Master’s Blue Lodge District Visits, my Homecoming, administrative business of our Grand Chapter and the triennial of the General Grand Chapter. As the old saying goes “...

Time goes by fast when you are having fun...” I have enjoyed every minute of this journey to which my Companions have elected me to.

I still have a long road ahead until our Grand Convocation on April 8, 2009. As we come to the latter part of this year, we come into a season of contemplation, remembrance, thanksgiving and spiritual renovation.

First, let us give thanks to all those Companions and Brethren that served in our Armed Forces for their dedication to the defense of our freedom and liberties as a nation. Second, let us give thanks to our Creator for all the blessings He has given us this year. Third, let us always remember the lessons of Faith, Hope and Charity that God provides us every year in the month of December and renovate our spirits with His Light, Love and promise of eternal salvation.

To all my Companions, Happy Veteran’s Day, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and very Happy and Prosperous New Year.

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As a reminder, I am publishing Executive Order No. 2008-01. We need to make every effort to downsize the number of NPD members this year. (Executive Order placed as sent by the Grand Secretary).

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO 2008-01 WHEREAS: In accordance with the Constitution, of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Florida, Appendix A, Uniform Code of Bylaws, Article XIII, many companions are suspended for nonpayment of dues each year, and WHEREAS: It is beneficial to the Particular Chapters and the Grand Chapter of Florida that these Companions be encouraged to again become an active member of Royal Arch Masonry, and WHEREAS: Membership is one of our important goals.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, James P. Rudman, M.E. Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons of Florida, do hereby order and declare: 1. That during the period from April 28, 2008 until April 8, 2009, a period of amnesty is declared for

all Royal Arch Masons suspended from their respective Chapter or Chapters for non-payment of dues.

Any particular Chapter in our Grand Jurisdiction that desires to reinstate a suspended Companion without payment of past dues, may do so by adopting the attached Resolution, which adopted Resolution must be returned to the Grand Secretary's office over the Seal of the Chapter, in order to be effective.

And, if adopted, I hereby waive the provisions of Article XIII concerning the payment of past Per Capita Tax. Provided that each such Companion shall make application for reinstatement to the Chapter which suspended him and, at the time of such application, shall pay the dues (not prorated) in that Chapter for the current year. He may likewise renew membership in any other Chapter or Chapters to which he belonged at the time of his suspension, by notifying such other Chapter or Chapters of his reinstatement under the provisions of this Executive Order and by paying his dues in such Chapter or Chapters for the current year. If he chooses to be reinstated only in the Chapter which suspended him, he may do so, and shall notify the other Chapter or Chapters from which he was likewise suspended of his reinstatement and decision not to renew his membership in such other Chapter or Chapters.

2. That an application for reinstatement to the Chapter which suspended him shall be presented at a Stated Convocation, and follow the usual course. The Secretary shall report the action of the Chapter in the Chapter's monthly report and to all other Chapters in the District.

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That each High Priest will see that a list of all members of his Chapter, suspended for non-pay-

ment of dues during the past five (5) years, is sent to the Grand Secretary's Of- 2008 - 2009 Grand Chapter Officers fice. The Grand Secretary will then send a blank application for reinstatement, together with a copy of this Executive Order, to each affected member.

M. Exc. James P. Rudman Grand High Priest

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That every Chapter shall use its best efforts to contact all companions R. Exc. Darryl A. D’Angina entitled to reinstatement under the terms of this Executive Order and to impress Grand King upon them the advantages of this opportunity to return to good standing.

R. Exc. Anthony J. Marotta Jr. Grand Scribe

5. That insofar as any provision of the Constitution is inconsistent with the R. Exc. Richard Foreman terms of this Executive Order, the same is hereby set aside for the duration of Grand Treasurer the period of amnesty as aforesaid.

R. Exc. Steve Q. Steele Grand Secretary

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND and the Seal of the Grand Chapter Royal Arch Ma- Exc. C. Alan Walls sons in Florida, this 29th day of April, A.I. 2538, A.D. 2008.

Grand Chaplain JAMES P. RUDMAN Grand High Priest Attest:

Exc. Robert Kirkpatrick Grand Captain of the Host

Exc. Calvin Bonet Grand Principal Sojourner

Exc. John Allen Grand Royal Arch Captain

Steven Q. Steele, Grand Secretary

RESOLUTION (to be returned to the Grand Secretary)

Exc. John Wermann Grand Master of the 3rd Veil

Exc. William Jacobs Grand Master of the 2nd Veil

WHEREAS, IN THE SPIRIT OF Masonic Brotherhood, it is the desire of Exc. Richard Wolf ___________________ Chapter No. _______ R.A.M., to reinstate those Companions Grand Master of the 1st Veil who have been suspended for non-payment of dues, and, Exc Frederick Piasecki Grand Sentinel

WHEREAS, M:.E:. JAMES P. RUDMAN, Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Exc. Glen Chandler Florida, has issued Executive Order No. 1, waiving the Grand Chapter per capita tax for Grand Historian the years of suspension for a Companion who is restored to membership by paying his Exc. David Meade 2008 dues, and Grand Organist WHEREAS, it is the desire of this Chapter to waive past dues and reinstatement fees for a Companion who is reinstated under this Executive Order, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that until rescinded by this Chapter or until April 8, 2009, whichever occurs earlier, a Companion of this Chapter who has been suspended for Non-Payment of Dues may be restored to membership by applying for reinstatement and being elected according to the provisions of Appendix A, Uniform Code of Bylaws, Article XIII of the Constitution of the Grand Chapter of the State of Florida, and this Chapter agrees to waive past dues and reinstatement fees, and any By-Law Provisions in conflict are hereby set aside until the above mentioned date.

Adopted by action of Chapter on the _______ day of __________________ 2008

_____________________________________ High Priest

_____________________________ Secretary

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Words from the Grand Ninth Arch

By Most Illustrious Dencel Smith, Most Illustrious Grand Master 2008-2009

My dear Companions, can you believe that we are already six months into the 2008-2009 Cryptic Year? It seems like we just had the installation ceremony in Lake Mary a few days ago. But, as the old saying goes, “time goes by fast when you are having fun” and we have been having fun this year.

It all started with District Meetings in Fort Myers and Coral Gables in June, Plant City and Tampa in July, Vero Beach and Ormond Beach in August, St. Augustine and Inverness in September. We will finish up with Pensacola and Tallahassee in October. For the most part, the district meetings have been well attended both by the hosts and visitors. One of the highlights of the year was in August when I traveled to Naples to constitute Notuma Council No. 45. Thanks to the efforts of Companion Randy Spradling and others, Notuma Council is now a reality. Great job, Companions.

A second highlight was getting to attend the Triennial Session of the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International in Indianapolis, Indiana, in August. What a sight to see all the states and countries represented where Cryptic Masonry is present and working. It sure makes me proud and grateful to know that I am a part of this great fraternity. Your Grand Master was honored by being asked to carry the flag of the great state of Florida.

Sometimes we have a tendency to get caught up in our own little world and fail to see the “big picture” of what is going on around us throughout the world. Through the efforts of Most Puissant Grand Master Bud Himes and the General Grand Officers our part of this fraternity continues to grow not only here in the United States but to other parts of the world as well. Thanks 6

Companions for your dedication and sacrifices. It is only when you get out of your comfort zone and see what is going on in other places, that you can be truly thankful for what is going on right in your own area.

2008 - 2009 Grand Council Officers

M. I. Dencel Smith Most Ill. Grand Master R. I. Carl E. Gilmore Deputy Grand Master R. I. Howard Gardner Grand Principal Conductor of Work R. I. Richard Foreman Grand Treasurer R. I. Steve Q. Steele Grand Recorder Ill. L. Richard Kasten

MIGM Paul Friend was recognized for the great work he does for the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation by being presented the prestigious Columbia Award. Congratulations Paul and please don’t stop. We need more workers like you. Companions, we need you to step up and participate in our fund-raising efforts for our CHARITY, the CMMRF. One of my goals for this year is 100% participation of the Councils in our state. If funds are low, then just try the charity box on the altar approach. You will be surprised at the amount you will collect.

Grand Chaplain

As we approach the end of this calendar year, we come into the season of thanksgiving and contemplation.

If someone had told me a few years back that I would be serving the Grand Council of Florida as its Grand Master, I would have told them that they were nuts. My health was bad and my finances worse. But by being thankful of what I have and the great friends that I have made along the way, that event became a reality. I have so much to be thankful for that I really don’t know where to begin to say thanks. I am thankful for each and every one of the Cryptic Masons in the state of Florida. I am thankful for the Companions at the Grand Assembly in April 2008 who elected me to this position. I am thankful to my wife, Ann, who didn’t know what a mason was until she married me. She has been my number one supporter throughout my Masonic career. Now that she has retired, she is my number one traveling companion. I am so fortunate to have found her and have her accept my proposal with all the baggage I brought to this relationship. I am thankful to the Grand Masters who have gone before

Ill. David Meade

Ill. Daniel Fullwood Grand Captain of the Guard Ill. Larry R. Gillespie Grand Conductor of the Council Ill. Dean Hardwood Grand Marshall Ill. Dayle Schrock Grand Steward Ill. Richard J. Filippi Grand Sentinel Grand Organist me, the advice they give me, and those who continue to work in our great fraternity. I am thankful for all the men and women in the armed services (including my son who is in Iraq right now for the third tour and my grandson who will return to Iraq for a second tour in January). They lay their life on the line everyday that we might live in this great country and have the freedoms that we selfishly enjoy every day.

So Companions, as we enter into this holiday season, I ask you to stop or at least slow down long enough to contemplate the many blessings that have been given us. To quote a line from the Scottish Rite closing ritual, “Brethren, let us not like ungrateful children, be thankless to our Heavenly Father for the many blessings which, in His loving kindness, He has bestowed upon us.”

Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

2008 - 2009 Grand Council Installation

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Photos above (from left to right) - 1)Entrance of 2008-2009 Grand Council Officers 2) Grand Line taking their obligation 3) Introduction of the 2008-2009 Illustrious Grand Master, Dencel Smith 4) Lady Ann Smith placing the Ill. Grand Master’s jewel on Dencel Smith. 5) Lady Ida placing the Grand Deputy Master’s Jewel on Right Ill. Carl Gilmore 6) Lady Judith placing the Grand Principal Conductor of the Work’s Jewel on Right Ill. Howard Gardner 7)Installation of the 2008 -2009 District Deputies 8) Installation of 2008 -2009 District Instructors 9)2008 - 2009 Grand Council Line with District Deputies and Instructors.

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Words from the Grand Asylum

2008 -2009 Grand Commandery Officers

S.K. Charles Perez Right Eminent Grand Commander

By Sir Knight Charles Perez, Right Eminent Grand Commander 2008 -2009

S.K. Ideal Baldoni II Very Eminent Deputy Grand Commander

Greetings my fellow Knights Templar Masons. The Florida Templar year is half over and I cannot believe where the time has gone. As they say, time flies when you are having fun.

I have attended the District meetings in Districts 1 thru 8. We will still have Districts 9 & 10 to go. These meetings are for the purpose meeting with the local Commanderies and sharing the concerns and recommendations of the members.

These meetings are very informative for both the members and the Grand Line Officers. Unfortunately the general membership does not attend in large numbers. Attendance by the Grand Line Officers has been very satisfactory.

The goal for this year is to increase the membership by 10 percent by bringing in new members and retaining those we already have. Suspensions for non-payment of dues, has been a serious concern for the past several years. Recorders and Eminent Commanders need to take a personal interest in this problem to make sure that every Sir Knight who is delinquent in his dues is contacted either by telephone or in person. A letter telling him he is in arrears and may be suspended is a cold bureaucratic practice that in many cases alienates the member even more. If we are to succeed in promoting our Knight Templar Brotherhood, we need to go the extra mile to convince the erring Sir Knight how much his membership means to the fraternity.

Communication is the life line of any relationship and the York Rite 8

S.K. Charles “Chic” Cicero Eminent Grand Generalissimo S.K. David A. Aponte Eminent Grand Captain General S.K. S.K. Richard Foreman Eminent Grand Treasurer

is no exception. It behooves every Commandery to stay in touch with the membership regularly; be it by newsletter, phone tree or telephone. A well informed Sir Knight is more likely to come to the meetings than one who never hears from his Commandery except when they want money.

Our main charity is the Knights Templar Eye Foundation. I am asking every Sir Knight to donate apenny –a-day to the K.T.E.F. like the Grand Lodge does for the Masonic Home. I have therefore asked each Commandery to send a request for a donation to each member, along with the annual Dues Notices in October The Holy Land Pilgrimage is back on track. A group of 45 ministers are scheduled to go on February 9th and another group on February 23rd. 2009. Any Commandery that is interested in sending a minister to the Holy Land should contact the Grand Prelate at 352 275 7784 or

by E-mail williamsdan.maryann@yahoo.com Thank you for your continued support of the Knights Templar and your Blue Lodge.

Every Christian Mason ought to be a Knight Templar; talk this up every time you attend your Blue Lodge.

S.K. Steve Q. Steele Eminent Grand Recorder S.K. Rev. Daniel Williams Eminent Grand Prelate S.K. A. J. Larose Eminent Grand Senior Warden S.K. Henry Adams Eminent Grand Junior Warden S.K. Robert G. Stearns Eminent Grand Standard Bearer S.K. Charles R. Cooper Eminent Grand Sword Bearer S.K. James T. Mason Eminent Grand Warder S.K. Robert St. John Eminent Grand Sentinel S.K. John Allen Eminent Grand Organist S.K. Phillip S. Ware Inspector General S.K. Ronald Bertie, REPGC Drill Master General S.K. Richard Agster Judge Advocate General S.K. Stephen Henwood Chief of Staff

2008 -2009 Grand Commandery Installation

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Photos above (from left to right) - 1) Newly-installed Right Eminent Grand Commander, S. K. Charles Perez 2) Grand Line taking their obligation 3) Grand Generalissimo and Grand Captain General. 4) Grand Senior and Junior Wardens. 5) Lady Ida placing the R. E. Grand Commander’s Jewel on S. K. Charles Perez. 6) Lady Judith placing the V. E. Deputy Grand Commander’s Jewel on S. K. Ideal Baldoni II. 7) Lady Tabitha placing the E. Grand Generalissimo’s Jewel on S. K. Charles “Chic” Cicero. 8) Lady Mary Ann Rudman placing the E. Grand Captain General’s Jewel on S. K. David Aponte. 9) The Chief of Staff, S. K. Steven Henwood, receives congratulations from several ladies. 10) S. K. Leroy Fackler receiving his Past Grand Commander’s Jewel. 11) Lady Barbara place the Past Grand Commander’s Jewel on S. K. Leroy Fackler. 12) Grand Sword Bearer and Grand Standard Bearer taking their obligation. 13) District Deputies and Instructors taking their obligation. 14) The Grand Commandery’s Grand Line with some of the District Deputies and Instructors.

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LIVE RESPECTED

by Companion Fred Latsko, PDDGM, Past Grand Orator

The following is the oration given by Companion Fred Latsko , Grand Orator 2007-2008, Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida at the 179th Annual Communication at Orlando, Florida on May, 2008.

Most Worshipful Grand Master, Past Grand Masters, Elected and Appointed Grand Lodge Officers, distinguished East, Ladies and Guests, and my Brethren all, this is an opportunity I long have sought; a microphone and a captive audience. Actually this is a chance to address those who mean so much to me. First I’d like to thank M:.W:. Bob Harry for the opportunity to serve him and the Craft; he gave me the chance to wear two large hats this year!

Not only am I the Grand Orator, but I am also the State Chairman of the Committee on Work. I wish thank my wonderful wife Beverlie for allowing me to pursue my other love, Freemasonry! I thank M:.W:. Glenn Phillips for appointing me District Deputy Grand Master in 2001, without that appointment I may have never become close with our Grand Master. I also must thank my Masonic Mentor R:.W:. Tom Price whose instruction was invaluable to me in my Masonic career. As I have mentioned through this year, I was appointed to a position in which I have permission to talk. After serving with me as DDGM, our Grand Master realized there was no way to keep me quiet, even at a District Meeting!

I feel as if I’d be preaching to the choir. You in attendance are the lifeblood of our great Fraternity.

If I try to be humorous I’d be like the fellow at the Jokesters’ convention where all the jokes were known and numbered. One would rise and yell out a number and everyone would recall the joke and laugh. I’d get up and yell the numbers and there would be silence.

Some people can tell jokes and some can’t.

Things that come too easily are not valued What I would like to do is

However, I’m not here to talk about me. I’ve been urged to say something important. I’m not sure I can do that. I once heard a speaker remark that whatever is said today, will not be remembered.

However, we Mason keep these orations. I’ve researched many past Grand Orations and some were excellent and some I felt might have been better. Some Orators, as Brother Handley, are great speakers with a humorous delivery. Some orations were given by great politicians and truly distinguished Masons. We’ve even had governors who’ve held this position. I’ve also been urged by some to talk about the problems our Fraternity is facing and to give solutions. Again I’m not sure I can do that. If I speak about our issues and even if I have suggestions for solutions, 10

speak a little about my feelings regarding our Fraternity and touch on some issues brought up this year by our Grand Master. He has discussed the issue of concern with the speed in becoming a Mason; the amount of time it requires to complete the degree work through our traditional method. I think we can all agree that things that come too easily are not valued. If an accomplishment doesn’t take an effort, we may feel that it isn’t worthwhile.

How many of us are proud of the difficulties we’ve overcome in our lives? While we may not enjoy it at the time, we look back with pride on having endured through hard times.

Today is our Observed National Memorial Day. All of us who served in the military, please rise. Look around. These are those for whom this day is very special. While we didn’t pay the ultimate price, we took the chance. We had friends and companions who did. Why? To preserve the great freedoms we have in this great country. One of my attractions to Masonry was the patriotism of Masons even before it became popular, after the attacks of September 11, 2001! While those of us who served in the military probably didn’t enjoy much of the duty, don’t we look back now and feel proud? We feel proud that we were able to survive the Basic Training demands, the demands of our duty assignments, the separation from family and friends, and all the other discomforts we experienced. We probably only remember the good

LIVE RESPECTED... times we had and feel a sense of accomplishment. That is how most of us feel about our catechisms work. It wasn’t just given to us; we had to work for it. But now, what an accomplishment!

Now I have no quarrel with anyone who received “shorten degree work”, some of the best workers in my Lodge were “one-day class” members, but most of the ones who are active are those who did complete their proficiencies, even if their degree work was quick. They committed the time and effort to learn the moral teachings of our Ancient Fraternity.

I also think we have sold ourselves short. We were once a group of “gentlemen”, a group of influential men, and a group of men-of-means.

While I certainly can’t advocate being an elitist, having spent my entire life employed and paid as a law enforcement officer, I think we are not charging enough for our membership. Most Lodges charge less than five dollars a meeting in annual dues. We have ridiculously low initiation fees. We complain about expenses incurred

by Grand Lodge and the modest per capita fees charged. Before you all hang me, let me say that again; we pay for those things we think are worthwhile. If we don’t charge sufficient fees to pay our bills or give the proper amenities to our officers, we’ve undervalued ourselves. We pay for things we think are worth the money. Many other civic organizations charge many times more than we do!

The competition for our time is so great now. Most families have two or more employed members.

We, male members, have taken on more household and child caring duties. We have electronics that can occupy many hours of our time. We have many demands on our limited time. If we don’t provide something valuable, no one will show up!

Five years ago, after having a by-pass operation, I came very close to dying! Fortunately, I survived that and am here today. When one approaches death, we can handle it in many different ways.

I was not really afraid of dying; I spent over 33 years as a law enforcement officer, and have lived what I think is a good and moral life. However, I was a little put out with myself that I had not taken the surgery very seriously. I hadn’t put my affairs in order; I hadn’t said goodbye to those close to me. Isn’t that a little like the legend of our Fraternity? Shouldn’t I have taken those teachings more to heart? Shouldn’t I have been better prepared to answer the Dread Messenger of Death?

Recently I was privileged to hear a wonderful oration! A member of my Lodge, a retired professor, (and somewhat of a Thespian) reluctantly spoke at a York Rite Table Chapter in which the guest speaker was the Junior Grand Warden. The Junior Grand Warden had presented an eloquent talk about Masonry. Afterwards, several in attendance mentioned themes that distinguished us as Masons: honesty, trustworthiness, brotherly affection, to mention a few. The Brother concluded that while each was very important, we, as Masons, claim to make good men better. How do we do this? Giving them moral instruction is what we say we do. Before we even became Masons, we were told that Masonry is a system of moral instruction, anciently taught by symbols and allegories.

The issue of morality is not as easy for us as it was in the past

We are a group of volunteers. We do that which we wish to do. I remember back when I was Worshipful Master of my Lodge. My Treasurer was a great Mason and would do anything I asked him to do, if he wanted to do it. He also did nothing I told him to do that he didn’t want to do. We must remember that we do things for which we are rewarded. If we make coming to Lodge enjoyable, we’ll attract members. If we don’t, well, as Brother Handley has remarked, we are a generation away from extinction!

The issue of morality is not as easy for us as it was to those in the past. We have moved from an agrarian society of the past, and even past the production society which we once were, to today’s service society. With this change, our issues of 11

LIVE RESPECTED ... morality have drastically changed. Can we as Masons handle this task?

Our Ritual is ripe with moral lessons. We have an abundance of material if we would use it. We have many publications which can teach us morality. How many of us really go to Lodge with the idea that we might learn something? Do we sit though the reading of the Minutes, paying of bills, officers’ projects, and other Lodge functions, thinking of how soon the meeting will be over and when we can get home!

Do we even listen to the degree work, the Lectures, and the Charges, or do we just dream of other issues?

through Masonry. We have in this Fraternity, men who see no limits. We have men who can make this world a better place to live. We have men who are deeply pious, of high integrity, extremely patriotic, very charitable, trustworthy, and can lead by example. We need to remember that we must be committed to making “good men better”. We need to teach morality by our ancient symbols and allegories. We need to, as my wife and I love to say, “live respected and die regretted”.

As I close today, let me say that Masonry is a wonderful Fraternity.

It can be a great guide in handling the issues of today. We can dedicate ourselves to making the country a better place to live. We can assist our communities by doing charitable acts. We can aspire to the highest callings. We can initiate new members and teach them morality. We can even have good times and great social events. To do this though, we must work together for the good of all, we must remember our roots, remember to treat each other favorably, we must follow the Holy Writings, and put into practice the great lessons that our ritual provides. I think we can do this. In my area, Masonry is on the rise with the great new members that are coming into our Fraternity. So I say, God bless you and keep up the good work.

Masonry is a wonderful Fraternity. It can be a guide in handling the issues of How many of us coach Catechisms today. to the new Brothers?

How many have taken time to learn the funeral service? Next to knowing a Mason personally, the performance of this service is the penultimate method in which we attract new members. I know in my District, there are very few who have taken this initiative and responsibility. We have a responsibility to provide the next posterity with these functions. We need to get to know our Brothers. When they don’t come to Lodge, do we check on them? Do we know when they are sick, down on their luck, or elated with success?

While I do not want to admonish you in attendance, we do need to remember why we have lasted so many centuries. We’ve provided worthwhile functions. We’ve done charitable acts; we’ve taken care of our Brothers, their widows, and orphans.

We’ve created a good reputation in the community. But if we don’t keep doing these acts, if we let our ritual become sloppy, if we quit performing our public functions well, our funerals and installations, if we don’t make it desirable to become a member, then we are just a generation away from extinction.

However, I know that this group is up to the task!

I have met some of the finest people in the world 12

The Importance of Character in Public Office

by Sir Knight James P. Gilmore

Crusade Commandery No. 23 - Haddonfield, New Jersey Reprinted with permission from the October 2008 Knights Templar Magazine

This is a subject which comes up often in casual conversation, is of major concern to all citizens, is vital to our survival as a nation, and is of great importance to us as Freemasons since we are very much concerned with the development of good character. I have heard individuals express the opinion that character means nothing in people who occupy public office. Such statements as , “His personal life means nothing when it comes to performance of his public office duties” are familiar to all of us. It is often said that personal life and morality in public office are not of concern to the citizens of our country; only performance skills in doing his job. Contrary to the foregoing, character is all-important in public service.

ruption in the national government in Washington without there being corruption in all levels of government, i.e. local, county and state levels. If this is true, we should assure that we have men and women of good character in every public office. We have a great weakness in our method of selecting candidates for public office, often leaving the voters with unacceptable alternatives. People are often elected to office based upon popularity or wealth rather than their capabilities. Having money or being a public icon should not be enough to get elected to public office. Both of these are violations of the basic precepts upon which our great nation is based.

We need capable people with good character. I have never seen job descriptions for high level national officials which would show both the capabilities required to do the job as well as elements of character required. The voters cannot be left with choosing the lesser of evils.

We as Freemasons are character-builders,and hence we must be diligent in combating this trend of faulty reasoning

We have all seen or heard a person say, “I don’t care what an official does in his private life; I am only interested in his performance on the job.” Such comments constitute a defect in basic reasoning which is widespread. We, as Freemasons, are character-builders, and hence we must be diligent in combating this trend of faulty reasoning.

As a 54 year Freemason and therefore a member of an organization, which has for a major aim, character-building, I take exception to this way of thinking on the part of the American voter.

In this, a general election year, it is important that our citizens give consideration to character when voting for candidates. We have all seen cases of persons forced to leave public office because of scandals of various kinds; all manifestations of character defects on the part of persons holding public office.

It has been stated that there could not be cor-

A character defect is allpervasive in the sense that it impacts the personal life and political life as well; you cannot arbitrarily say that a man can be dishonest and immoral in his personal life and honest and moral in the exercise of his official duties as a government official.

On the contrary, his character colors all aspects of his thinking and of his life. We cannot permit persons with multiple standards to occupy offices of public trust. We need people in public office who not only have the abilities and skills to perform the duties of that position but whom, we the public they serve, can depend upon to be of strong character.

We need people who are honest and who have integrity to represent us in the international interfaces as well as to run our internal affairs. Some of the major elements of character of concern in public life are: integrity, honesty, virtue, fidelity, loyalty, justice and worth. Integrity includes uprightness of char13

The Importance of Character in Public Office ... acter, probity, soundness of thinking, justice and an unimpaired state. Honesty, among many other aspects, includes trustworthiness, uprightness, freedom from fraud, fairness, equity, morality, and just conduct.

The obvious conclusion is that good character is all-important in those holding public office. We must consider character in addition to experience, background and capabilities when voting. It is extremely important in an election year to be aware Character is extremely important in persons oc- of any character defects a candidate running for cupying public office for the following reasons. public office may have and to vote accordingly. EvFirst, there will be more consistency in govern- ery voter is urged to give character consideration ment policy. A man of good character cannot be before pulling that lever or marking a ballot for his compromised in his decision-making process. He or her election. All my brother Masons are urged to is less likely to be impaired by errant behavior. He advise all voters to emphasize the importance of can be relied upon for integrity in all his relation- character in public office. ships, either inward or outward looking. Honesty Our nation is the greatest experiment in human reand integrity mean that we will know where a man lations in the history of mankind. Many of those in office stands at all times, i.e. reliability. The who established it were Freemasons. It is now depeople can rely upon the decisions made and the teriorating, and I maintain that this is because we actions taken as straightforward and in their best need more men and women of strong character in interests. People of good character are less likely our government. to yield to pressure from special interest groups and make decisions which will act to the detriment of the majority of our citizens.

Freemasonry Not only do we seek Good Men...

We seek Commitment To God, Family and Country

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What is Chivalry?

By S. K. Charles “Chic” Cicero, E. Grand Generalissimo Knight Templar Magazine - Florida Supplement Editor

In the York Rite, the Knights Templar is known as Chivalric Masonry. The word chivalry has been handed down to us through the medieval institution of knighthood. Most people associate the word with ideals of knightly virtues, honor and courteous (“chivalrous”) behavior, especially that of men towards women. The term originates in 10th century France. It is based on the French words for “knight” chevalier, and “horse” cheval. Medieval knights were skilled at the art of war, trained in fighting in armor, with horses, lances, swords, and shields. Knights were taught to excel in the arms, to show courage, to be gallant, loyal and to swear off cowardice, immorality, and wickedness. In literary texts of the era, such as The Song of Roland (the oldest major work of French literature, dating to the mid-12th century), chivalry referred to a worthy action on the battlefield.

Medieval writers often used the word chivalry, but its definition was never consistent until the 12th century when the term came to be understood as a moral, religious, and social code of knightly conduct. The particulars of the code varied, but codes would emphasize the virtues of courage, honor, and service.

Christianity had an influence on the virtues of chivalry. The Peace and Truce of God in the 10th century (an early attempt by the Catholic Church to control civil society in medieval Europe through non-violent means) was an example of this—it instructed knights to protect and honor the weaker members of society and also help the church maintain peace. The idea of the Miles Christi “knight of Christ” began to gain popularity in France, Spain, and Italy during the 11th century. The idea of “religious chivalry” was further developed during the time era of the Crusades.

During the later part of the Middle Ages, wealthy merchants also began to adopt chivalric attitudes. This democratization of chivalry led to the creation of courtesy books, which were guides to the behavior of “gentlemen.” Thus, the idea of gentlemanly behavior—giving value to a man’s honor, respect for women, and a concern for those less fortunate, can be traced to earlier ideals of knightly chivalry. The following is a Code of Chivalry based on the unwritten “Old Code” and adapted from an article by Brian R. Price in 1997: 1) Prowess: To seek excellence in all endeavors expected of a knight, martial and otherwise, seeking strength to be used in the service of justice, rather than in personal aggrandizement.

2) Justice: Seek always the path of ‘right’, unencumbered by bias or personal interest. Recognize that the sword of justice can be a terrible thing, so it must be tempered by humanity and mercy.

3) Loyalty: Be known for unwavering commitment to the people and ideals you choose to live by. There are many places where compromise is expected; loyalty is not amongst them. X 4) Defense: The ideal knight was sworn by oath to defend his liege lord and those who de15

What is Chivalry?... pended upon him. Seek always to defend your nation, your family, and those to whom you believe worthy of loyalty.

5) Courage: Being a knight often means choosing the more difficult path. Be prepared to make personal sacrifices in service of the precepts and people you value. At the same time, a knight should seek wisdom. Courage also means taking the side of truth in all matters, rather than seeking the easy lie. Seek the truth whenever possible, but remember to temper justice with mercy.

6) Faith: A knight must have faith in his beliefs, for faith roots him and gives hope against the despair that human failings create.

7) Humility: Value first the contributions of others; do not boast of your own accomplishments, let others do this for you.

8) Generosity: Be generous in so far as your resources allow.

9) Nobility: Seek great stature of character by holding to the virtues and duties of a knight, realizing that though the ideals cannot be reached, the quality of striving towards them ennobles the spirit, growing the character from dust towards the heavens. Nobility also has the tendency to influence others, offering a compelling example of what can be done in the service of rightness.

Do what is right because it is right. Seek to infuse every aspect of your life with these qualities. Should you succeed in even a tiny measure then you will be well remembered for your quality and virtue.

In 1822, Kenelm Henry Digby wrote a book entitled The Broad Stone of Honour in order to revive chivalry in modern life. He defined it thus: “Chivalry is only a name for that general spirit or state of mind which disposes men to heroic actions, and keeps them conversant with all that is beautiful and sublime in the intellectual and moral world.�

The values embraced by Chivalry are timeless and priceless. As Christian Knights, we should always hold these precepts close to our hearts and strive ever to embody them in our daily lives.

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DEMOLAY NEWS Events

Saturday, October 11th

The 15th Annual Knighthood Cotillion will be held on Saturday, October 11th, at the Tampa Scottish Rite Center, beginning at 5:00 p.m.

• October 11 - Knighthood Cotillion - Tampa Scottish Rite Center.

Tickets are $15.00 per youth, $20.00 per adult. Reservations are required for this event, and tickets must be purchased in advance, • November 1 - DeMolay/Rainbow Fun Day, Moss as there will be no ticket sales at the door. All tickets must be purchased no later than Friday, September 26th. To purchase tickets, Lake Park, Orlando please contact Lady Elaine Graulich: • November 15 - SMC Homecoming - Islands of 214 Flagler Ave Edgewater, FL 32132 Phone: 386-423-4826 Adventure, 11:00 a.m.

• November 15 - State-wide Initiation at Bahia Chapter, 5:00 p.m.

• December 7 - Florida High-12 State Convention - Ocala • December 14 - State-wide Day of Comfort Observance at the Florida Masonic Home • January 17-19, 2009 - Mini-Conclave • February 14, 2009 - Youth Day at the Florida Masonic Home, State-wide Initiation • April 3-5, 2009 - Old South Ritual Tournament, New Orleans • April 3-5, 2009 - Knighthood Spring Festival, Masonic Youth Park & Camp, Wimauma

Saturday, November 1 Florida DeMolay and the Grand Assembly of Rainbow Girls in Florida will be holding a joint “Fun Day” at Moss Park on Saturday, November 1st.

The day will be filled with fun and food. Including flag-football and volleyball contests.

Moss Park is located at 12901 Moss Park Rd, Orlando (map) and is one of the largest parks in Orange County. For those Chapters interested, Moss Park offers camping facilities. Details on Moss Park, and the services available there can be found on their web site.

Meet our new DeMolay Brothers

• April 5, 2009 - Florida Grand York Rite Banquet, West Volusia Chapter - Brother Austin was inducted on Marriott Hotel, Lake Mary September 10th.

• April 11, 2009 - State-wide Initiation at JupiterTequesta Chapter

• April 21, 2009 - Grand Chapter OES of Florida, Jacksonville • May 21, 2009 - Grand Court of Florida, Order of the Amaranth, Inc - Tampa • May 23, 2009 - SMC Banquet & State Sweetheart Ball at Bahia Shrine Orlando • May 24, 2009 - Grand Lodge of Florida (DAD Training & Grand Banquet) Orlando

• May 25, 2009 - Grand Lodge of Florida (King Solomon’s Chapter) Orlando

• June 6, 2009 - Knighthood Convocation

Bahia Chapter - Brothers Kadosh and Jermal were inducted on September 11th.

South Seminole Chapter - Brothers Joshua, Frank, and Christopher were inducted on August 15th.

Greater Titusville Chapters - Brother Anthony was inducted on August 25th.

The following DeMolay Brothers have earned awards : #1 Pin Brandon Elson - South Seminole Chapter Tyler Sallee - Greater Titusville Chapter

• June 17-20, 2009 - International Supreme CounWhite Membership Merit Bar cil & International Congress, Kansas City, 90th Anniversary of DeMolay!

John Catalano - West Volusia Chapter

Jeff Meister, Jr. - Escambia Chapter 17

York Rite Masons of the Year Companions and Sir Knights: The members of your Grand York Rite Communication Committee want to thank all our Companions and Sir Knights for their continuous support since our inception in 2007. Our main product is The Florida York Rite Mason Magazine. We have published seven issues, number eight is in production. We hope the format and content are of your liking. The success of our magazine is due to your support and articles submitted.

In appreciation of that support, the Committee wants to honor a member of your local York Rite Masonic Bodies as part of the York Rite Masons of the Year recognition issue which will be published prior to our 2009 Grand York Rite Convention. The objective is to recognized one Companion / Sir Knight that have gone above and beyond his regular duties and made a significant impact or contribution for their local York Rite Masonic Bodies. Your local York Rite Masonic Bodies is instrumental for us to accomplish this.

The instructions are simple. First, the local York Rite Masonic Bodies need to nominate just one Companion or Sir Knight. Second, fill out the attached nomination form signed by the Head Dais Officer of each Body and the Secretary/Recorder. Third, the form needs to be accompanied by a photo or a disk with a digital photo of the Companion or Sir Knight nominated.

Remember, the Companion or Sir Knight nominated must meet just one requirement: must have gone above and beyond his regular duties to help his local York Rite Masonic Bodies.

Please hand or send in the nomination form to any of the members of the Grand York Rite Communication Committee on or before JANUARY 15, 2009.

The success of this enterprise depends on you Companions and Sir Knights. The Committee is just a conduit for this enterprise. Please contact a Committee member if you or your local York Rite Masonic Bodies have any questions or to hand in the nomination form.

Thank you.

S. K. David A. Aponte, EGCG 6620 W. Constitution Lane, Homosassa, FL 34448

E-mail: daponte1@tampabay.rr.com

S. K. Charles Chic Cicero, EGG 4124 Raccoon Loop, New Port Richey, FL 34653

E-mail: Ciceros@tampabay.rr.com

M. Ill. Ron Blaisdell, M.I.P.G.M. 1239 Macon, Titusville, FL 32780

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E-mail: ron@blaisdell.com

2009 York Rite Masons of the Year Recognition Nomination Form Photo

Local York Rite Bodies: Name of Nominee:

First Name

Middle Name

Last Name

Tells us why the Companion is deserving of the nomination:

Year Companion/Sir Knight joined your York Rite Masonic Bodies:

Highest Positions Held:

Chapter:

Council:

Commandery:

Signature of High Priest

Signature of Illustrious Master

Signature of Eminent Commander

Signature of Secretary / Recorder

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News from Across the State

Gainesville Chapter’s Semi-Annual Table Chapter

By Companion Corbin P. Elliot Florida York Rite Mason Reporter

Ft. Myers Chapter Receives Six New Mark Masters

By Companion William Horacio Florida York Rite Mason Reporter

Ft. Myers Chapter received 6 new Mark Master

Gainesville Chapter No. 2, R.A.M., cele- on September 9th at Noah Lodge #357. Conbrated their renowned Semiannual Table Chap- gratulations to each of them. The top picture ter Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at the Gainesville are the Chapter officers that put on the degree Shrine Club. Even though, Tropical Storm Fay with the new Mark Masters. The second picture hinted to cancel the event, the Excellent High are the new Mark Masters with the High Priest Priest, Exc. Dennis Haskin, welcomed the 30 and R. Exc. Jim. The last picture is instrucCompanions that attended. The guest speaker tions given to our new Mark Masters. was our current Grand High Priest, Most Exc. James P. Rudman. He gave a very lively speech on the future of the Floridian Chapters. Some of the Grand Chapter Grand Line present besides the Grand High Priest were: R. Exc. Darryl D’Angina, Grand King; R. Exc. Anthony Marotta Jr, Grand Scribe; R. Exc. Daniel “Lyn” Williams, District Deputy 8th Capitular District; Exc. Frederick Piasecki, Grand Sentinel; and M. Exc. Harvey Ward, Sr., Past Grand High Priest.

Also in attendance: R. W. George Alardo, acting Grand Marshall of the Grand Lodge of Florida; R. Exc. David A. Aponte, Grand Captain General and R. Exc. Charles R. Cooper, Grand Sword Bearer, both of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida.

Pictured at the altar from left to right: R.E. Anthony Marrota, Jr., R. E. Darryl D’Angina, R. E. Lyn Williams, M. E. Harvey Ward, Sr., M, E, James P. Rudman, R. E. Wayne Thigpen.

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GRAND COMMANDER VISITS ST. AUGUSTINE COMMANDERY: SUMMER UNIFORM

News from Across the State

By S. K. Charles “Chic� Cicero, E. Grand Generalissimo Knight Templar Magazine - Florida Supplement Editor

On Monday, July 28th, Grand Commander Charles Perez visited St. Augustine Commandery No. 10. This was not an official visit, but there was a nice turnout, and everyone enjoyed dinner and a cordial meeting.

Pictured here were a number of the St. Augustine Commandery and visiting Sir Knights after the meeting. The St. Augustine Commandery Sir Knights wear the summer uniform as their regular uniform. Shown, left to right, in the first row were: Darryl A. D'Angina, KYCH, R. Ex. Grand King, Grand Chapter R.A.M. of Florida; Frederick L. Piasecki, R.E.P.G.C.; Charles Perez, R. E. Grand Commander, Grand Commandery K. T. of Florida; John A. Bouvier, III, E. Commander, St. Augustine Commandery No. 10; Leland E. Stanford, III, PC, D.D.G.C., District 7; and Corbin P. Elliott, KYCH, KCT, D.I., District 7.

Seen, left to right, in the back rows were: Fred H. Porter, Prelate (partially hidden behind Darryl D'Angina in first row); Moe Rebostini; Ed Dunn, Generalissimo, Richard L. Ames, Warder; Robert Gagnon, PC, Sword Bearer; Mickey Cunningham, Standard Bearer; C. Robert Cooper, PC, C.G., E. Grand Sword Bearer; and Burt F. Maguire, Recorder, acting S.W. of St. Augustine Commandery No. 10 K. T.

FLORIDA YORK RITE MASONS JOURNEY TO MAGGIE VALLEY

By S.K. David A. Aponte Photos taken by M. E. Steve Steele, Grand Secretary/Recorder

The York Rite Masons of North Carolina celebrated their Annual Summer Assembly at Maggie Valley, Our Grand Secretary/Recorder, M.E. Steve Steele, sent these picture of our Florida York Rite Masons enjoying the fellowship at Maggie Valley.

The top picture shows Grand Line Officers of the Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery and other York Rite Masons about to enjoy their dinner.

The picture on the bottom depicts, S.K. Robert Burleson, R.E.P.G.C. and Southeastern Department Commander taking a rest after walking around the area of the Masonic Marker.

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News From Across The State

Constitution of Notuma Council No. 45, Royal & Select Masters Story and Photos by Companion William Horacio

On Saturday, August 2, 2008, Floridian Cryptic Masons gathered in Naples , Florida for the constitution of Notuma Council No. 45. Most Illustrious Dencel Smith, Grand Master of Royal and Select Masters of Florida, together with other Grand Council Line Officers, performed an impressive ritual to constituted Notuma Council No. 45. This ritual has not been seen since 2002 when Counch Council was constituted. Most Illustrious Dencel Smith installed the first Officers of Notuma Council No. 45.

Right Ill. Randy Spradling was installed as the first Illustrious Master. It was a most memorable occasion to see so many Companions come together to celebrate the birth of a new Cryptic Council.

The pictures from top to bottom are: 1) Most Ill. Dencel Smith being escorted into the lodge room. 2) Grand Council Line Officers that participated in constituting Notuma Council.

3) The consecration of the altar. 4) Notuma Council’s officers being installed. 5) Installation of Right Ill. Randy Spradling as the first Illustrious Master of Notuma. 6) M. Ill. Charles Hollinger making the proclamation of the installed officers.

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News From Across The State

M.W. Joseph Fleites, Grand Master of F. & A. M. Florida Visits Districts 28 and 19

by S.K. David A. Aponte

M.W. Joseph Fleites, Most Worshipful Grand Master of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida made his official visits to Districts 28 and 19 on June 6th and September 6th, respectively. With Masonic Unity in our York Rite minds and hearts, our Companions and Sir Knights said present at the Grand Master’s Official District Visits. Our Grand High Priest, Most Excellent James P. Rudman, established as his 2008-2009 personal charity the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory. These actions only support and strengthen our Masonic ties with the Grand Lodge of Florida. Our best wishes to our Grand Master of Free & Accepted Masons.

Photos by Companions William Horacio and David A. Aponte 23

News From Across The State

Ocala York Rite Bodies Presented Donation Checks At District Meeting

Semper Fi Council No. 95 Knight Masons Instituted

By S.K. David A. Aponte Most Excellent Companion Harvey Ward, Sr. with the assistance of Right Excellent Darryl A. D’Angina as Director of Ceremonies and Right Excellent Robert Cooper as Priest instituted Semper Fi Council No. 95, Knight Masons on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at Belleview Lodge. The Charter Sir Knights of the Council were then Obligated. The first officers of the Council are: 1. Excellent Chief -

James P. Rudman

2. Senior Knight -

Frederick L. Piasecki

3. Junior Knight

-

Anthony J. Marotta

4. Treasurer / Secretary -

David A. Aponte

5. Senior Warden -

James H. Hughey

6. Junior Warden -

C. Alan Walls

7. Dir. of Ceremonies -

James L. Moore, III

8. Priest -

Wayne C. Sessa

9. Steward -

William C. Wagner

10. Captain of the Guard -

Randall R. Jesmok

11. Sentinel -

Larry D. Huff

By S.K. David A. Aponte

The Ocala York Rite Bodies presented a donation check of $500.00 to each Grand Presiding Officer for the York Rite Charities. The donation came from the net proceeds of their Annual Rose Charity Ball event which is held every year in February. First picture, Exc. Lucian Mundreanu, High Priest, Ocala Chapter No. 13 hands a check to the Grand High Priest. Second picture, R. Ill. Steve Mitchell, Ill. Master does the same for Ocala Council No. 22. Third picture, S.K. David Aponte, Recorder, does the same for Ocala Commandery No. 19.

Pictured below are: the Installing Officers (from left to right), Darryl D’Angina, Harvey Ward, Sr., and Robert Cooper.

Pictured below are: the Officers (from left to right), (first row) Wayne Sessa Randall Jesmok, Jim Hughey, C. Alan Walls, (second row) William Wagner, Larry Duff, (third row) James Rudman, Harvey Ward Sr., Frederick Piasecki and David Aponte.

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Successful Eight Grand York Rite District

News From Across The State

by S.K. David A. Aponte

The Grand York Rite District Eight Companions and Sir Knights meet at Inverness Lodge on Saturday, September 20th. There was good fellowship among the Companions and their Ladies. The Chapter and Commandery District Instructors gave a School of Instruction from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. Ocala York Rite presented a donation check for R.A.R.A., C.M.M.R.F. and the K.T.E.F. Right. Exc. Lyn Williams prepared a succulent lunch for all to enjoy. S.K. David Aponte led a contingent of Sir Knights from the 8th District and the Grand Commandery Line in presenting the Flag (see picture below). The York Rite Masons from the district received and enjoyed the messages from our Grand York Rite leaders.

Twenty-two New York Rite Masons from Tampa York Rite Fall Festival

By S. K. David A. Aponte

The Tampa York Rite Bodies held their Fall Festival on Saturdays October 4, and 11th at the Tampa York Rite Center. Nineteen new Companions and Twenty-two new Sir Knights from 5 local York Rite Bodies joined the rolls of new York Rite members over the two weekends.

We welcome these new Companions and Sir Knights to the Florida York Rite family, and at the same time congratulate the Companions and Sir Knights of Tampa for holding their Fall Festival.

The above picture shows our Right Eminent Grand Commander, S. K. Charles Perez, with the new Sir Knights. The picture below shows the Sir Knights of Tampa - Ivanhoe Commandery No. 8 with the new Sir Knights. Sir Knight Jimmy Vanders Jr., PEC.(first row standing in the middle), did an excellent job as the Eminent Commander in the Order of the Temple.

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News From Across The State

Jacksonville York Rite Bodies Fall Festival Honors S. K. C. Robert Cooper

By Companion Corbin P. Elliot Florida York Rite Mason Reporter

The Companions and Sir Knights of the Jacksonville York Rite Bodies held their annual Fall Festival Class from Saturday, October 4th thru Saturday, October 11th. Eight new Companions and Sir Knights received the degrees and orders: Robert W. Skinner, Bernard Kirkley, Mark Tingen, Jim Lear, Robert Johnson, Art Sabino, Corey Allshouse and Benjamin D. Marquis. The Jacksonville York Rite Bodies held their festival in honor of Sir Knight C. Robert Cooper, Eminent Grand Sword Bearer.

In the first picture, Right Exc. Darryl D’Angina, Grand King (first row center) pictured with the newly exalted Companions in the first row accompanied by the cast members. In the second picture, the newly received Companions and cast members. The third picture The cast of the Order of the Temple with the newly knighted Sir Knights. Congratulations to the new Companions and Sir Knights.

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Wedding Celebrated at Pilgrim Commandery No. 7

by S. K. Wayne Thigpen

August 5, 2008 was a unique evening at Pilgrim Commandery No. 7 in Gainesville. Sir Knight Ed Clifford, Eminent Commander of Pilgrim Commandery, prepared the Asylum for a very special occasion. With eighty-one witnesses, S. K. Dan Williams, Grand Prelate of the Grand Commandery of K. T. of Florida, officiate a Knights Templar wedding upon Sir Knight Wayne Thigpen and his lady Margaret. Sir Knight Bob Cooper, Eminent Grand Sword Bearer, sang at the ceremony. Several Sir Knights of Pilgrim Commandery formed an honor guard for the Bride and Groom. Congratulations to the bride and groom.

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2009 Souvenir Program Companions and Sir Knights

Companions and Sir Knights:

Please procure ads from outside of your local York Rite Bodies.

The members of your Grand York Rite Souvenir Program Committee want to thank all our Companions and Sir Knights for their support for our 2008 Grand Convention Souvenir Program Book. We are happy to announce that we surpassed the 2007 Souvenir Program Book income. This success was due to the efforts and support of so many of you. It helped cover some of the 2008 Grand York Rite Convention expenses.

We come again this year to request your aid and assistance for the 2009 Souvenir Program Book. We need to accomplish 2 objectives:

1) To increase the ads from the two previous years.

2) To increase our financial help to offset a grand portion of the Grand Convention expenses.

In order for us to meet our objectives, we need the help and assistance of all our Companions and Sir Knights in Florida. How can you help?

First - have your York Rite Bodies purchase an ad.

Second - have the Companions become boosters and purchase a name line which will be included in the program. Please have them only print their names legibly (no signatures).

Third - go out and sell, sell, sell. Sell ads to your local Blue Lodges, Appendant Bodies, Masters & Wardens Associations, Masonic brethren that are business owners and local businesses in your area.

Target business leaders with whom you may have some influence. We need to go beyond the box to make this a success.

We are including a copy of the Souvenir Program form. Make as many photocopies of the form as necessary. Once you get the ad, with the form filled out, the ad layouts, and payment, send it to the Grand Secretary/Recorder’s Office on or before JANUARY 30, 2009.

The success of this enterprise will be yours Companions and Sir Knights. The Committee is just a conduit for this enterprise.

A word of caution, NO AD WILL BE PUBLISHED THAT IS NOT PAID FOR.

Make sure the ad layout, form and payment are included. Donations / contributions are not tax deductible. However, the Donation / Contribution may be deductible as an ordinary business expense. Sponsors are urged to consult with their tax advisor. If you have any questions or need to contact someone in the Committee, please contact S. K. David A. Aponte, EGCG 6620 W. Constitution Lane, Homosassa, FL 34448

Phone: 352-503-3030

E-mail: daponte1@tampabay.rr.com

S. K. Charles Chic Cicero, EGG 4124 Raccoon Loop, New Port Richey, FL 34653

Phone: 727-372-1320 E-mail: Ciceros@tampabay.rr.com

R. Ill. Randy Spradling Suite 318 PMB 212, 5100 S. Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33907 Phone: 239- 634-3267

E-mail: freemason@aol.com

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FLORIDA GRAND YORK RITE CONVENTION SOUVENIR PROGRAM BOOK Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons * Grand Council of Royal & Select Masters * Grand Commandery of Knights Templar

2009 GOLD SUPPORTERS (ONE PRINTED NAME PER BOX— PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY — NO SIGNATURES) USE ADDITIONAL PAPER , IF NEEDED

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York Rite Jurisprudence

By S. K. David A. Aponte, E. Grand Captain General

Knowledge is power. One area our Companions and Sir Knights have repeatedly requested help is in the area of York Rite Jurisprudence. All of us need to learn, understand and correctly apply our Constitution, By-laws and Regulations that apply to each of our York Rite Bodies. Beginning with this issue we will reprint sections from the Constitution, General By-laws, and Regulations from a Grand York Rite Bodies for the edification of our membership. The following passages are from the Grand Encampment’s Constitution and Statues.

CHAPTER XII - FORFEITURE OF MEMBERSHIP AND REINSTATEMENT NON-AFFILIATION IN LODGE OR CHAPTER Section 201. Voluntary non-affiliation in a Lodge or Chapter or Council where required, for six months shall deprive a Knight Templar of his membership in the Commandery. (1988 pages 208–209) Section 202. When a Knight Templar has been suspended or expelled from his Lodge or Chapter or Council where required, for any reason, he shall be suspended or expelled, as the case may be, from his Commandery. (1988 Pages 208-209) Section 203. When a Knight Templar has been suspended or expelled from his Commandery solely because of his suspension or expulsion from his Lodge or Chapter or Council where required, restoration in such Lodge or Chapter or Council shall entitle him to restoration in his Commandery on written application therefore and a majority vote at a State Conclave.

When he has been suspended from his Commandery solely because of non-payment of dues to the Commandery, he may be restored to membership on written application therefore and a majority vote at a Stated Conclave and payment of such part of his dues in arrears as the Commandery may require.

SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION FOR UNKNIGHTLY CONDUCT Section 204. Acquittal, suspension or expulsion by a Lodge or Chapter or Council where required, on a charge of un-masonic conduct does not deprive a Commandery of the right to try a member thereof for the same or other offenses committed either before or after his trial in the Lodge or Chapter or Council.

Section 205. Suspension or expulsion of a Knight Templar by the Grand Encampment, by a Grand Commandery, or by a Commandery deprives him of membership in the Commandery and all rights and privileges of Knighthood so long as the judgment remains in force.

RESTORATION TO MEMBERSHIP OR GOOD STANDING 30

Section 206. When a Knight Templar has been suspended or expelled for unknightly conduct, he may be restored to membership on petition if the ballot is unanimous.

NON-PAYMENT OF DUES Section 207. The Eminent Commander shall supervise and determine whether it is advisable to remit the dues of a delinquent member because of illness, infirmity or financial inability, and shall recommend to his Commandery the remission of dues whenever he deems the same justified. If the Eminent Commander does not see fit to recommend the remission of dues of a delinquent member, he shall appoint a Committee of at least two members to make a personal call, if possible, upon such delinquent member with reference thereto. The report of such Committee shall be reviewed by the Eminent Commander, and shall be reported to the Commandery. The process of suspension shall be undertaken only after the foregoing preliminary requirements have been met.

Thereupon, the Eminent Commander shall see to it that the Recorder send either a certified or registered letter to the delinquent member at his last known address, giving official notice of intention to suspend such member, including the date and hour when the suspension proceedings will be brought before the Commandery for action. At the time when such suspension proceedings are brought before the Commandery, the Eminent Commander shall first inform the Commandery of all pertinent facts and circumstances regarding such delinquent member and shall exhibit the return receipt of the certified or registered letter to the delinquent member, or the unclaimed certified or registered letter, before any action shall be taken by the Commandery.

Section 208. When a member of a Commandery is summoned to show cause why he should not be suspended for non-payment of dues and fails to appear, the Commander cannot declare him suspended until the Commandery has so voted.

York Rite Jurisprudence CHAPTER XIV - COMMANDERIES - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS APPEARANCE IN PUBLIC Section 214. Commanderies shall not appear in public without a Dispensation except upon funeral occasions or to attend religious services, or to attend upon invitation the meetings or sponsored activities of other Masonic or Masonic-related bodies.

Section 215. The determination of what is a proper occasion for a Commandery to appear in public belongs to the Grand Master as to Subordinate Commanderies, and to the Grand Commander as to Constituent Commanderies.

Section 216. No Commandery or Grand Commandery shall hold a Conclave or perform any Templar work on Sunday, except for the purpose of conducting funerals, attending religious services, or conducting practice or tactical or other drills for instruction.

FUNERAL SERVICE Section 220. Only a Knight Templar in Good Standing is entitled to Templar funeral honors, but a Commandery may grant them to, or withhold them from, an unaffiliated Knight Templar. The funeral service adopted by the Grand Encampment shall be followed.

VISITORS Section 222. If he is not otherwise properly vouched for, a Visitor must be examined by a committee of one or more members and the committee must report that it is convinced that the Visitor is a member in good standing of a recognized Commandery or Priory of Knights Templar, before the Visitor may be admitted to the Asylum. .

Section 223. If a member objects, no member of another Commandery can be admitted into an Asylum unless he visits in an official capacity. The objection may be made openly in the Commandery or privately to the Commander, and in neither case can the objector be required to disclose the reason for his objection.

CHAPTER XV OFFICERS RESIGNATION - FILLING RESIGNATION Section 233. Any Officer of the Grand Encampment, of a Grand Commandery, of a Subordinate or of a Constituent Commandery may resign his office by filing

a written resignation with the respective Grand Recorder or Recorder, save that the resignation of the Grand Recorder of the Grand Encampment shall be filed with the Grand Master, of the Grand Recorder of a Grand Commandery with the Grand Commander and of the Recorder of a Commandery with the Commander; provided that the resignation of an Officer of a Subordinate or Constituent Commandery shall not be effective until accepted by the Commandery.

FILLING VACANCIES Section 234. A vacancy in any office of the Grand Encampment created by resignation shall be filled as prescribed in Section 25 and 26 of the Constitution as to the office therein mentioned; as to all other offices, by appointment by the Grand Master. A vacancy in any office of a Grand Commandery created by resignation shall be filled as prescribed in Sections 49 and 50 of the Constitution as to the offices therein mentioned; as to all other offices, by appointment by the Grand Commander. A vacancy in a Commandery office shall be filled as prescribed in Section 72 of the Constitution.

RETENTION OF RANK Section 235. One who has filled by installation and term of service, the office of Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Generalissimo, Grand Captain General or Department Commander in the Grand Encampment; Grand Commander, Deputy Grand Commander, Grand Generalissimo or Grand Captain General in a Grand Commandery; or Commander in a Commandery; shall retain the title of the highest office attained by him in the Grand Encampment, Grand Commandery and Commandery, with the word, “Past” immediately preceding and qualifying the official title. Past rank is limited to the offices named in this section, and may include the Administrative Offices as authorized in Section 43 and 55 of the Constitution provided that the provisions of this section shall apply to all Department Commanders who have served their terms of office” prior to the 49th Triennial Conclave. Provided that an officer who is installed and thereafter dies during his term of office shall be entitled to be considered as having filled his term of office. (Retroactive to 1964) (1991 Pages 20-22)

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York Rite Education

KING SOLOMON’S TEMPLE (Part 2)

By Most Ill. Ron Blaisdell, M.I.P.G.M. Of Michigan Passing between the two famous Pillars, the Porch of the Temple was entered.

Although there is no description given in the Bible of a porch in front of the Tabernacle, there is more than a strong probability that there was such a portico and this formed the precursor of the Porch of King Solomon’s Temple. No layman, even the King, might enter the Holy Place; but King David, as the anointed of Jehovah, had the right of passing beyond the soreg, or fence, which kept back the laity, and to take his place in the intermediate space that stood between the Altar of Burnt Sacrifice and the Holy chambers. This space was the porch of the Tabernacle. It would appear that this porch, covered by its tent-curtains, was the ordinary place of worship for the Judges and early Kings of Israel (2 Sam. 7:18, and 12:20).

Josephus tells us that the Tabernacle consisted of three parts into two of which the priests went daily in the course of their ministrations; but into the third the High-priest went but occasionally.

This we know to have been the Holy of Holies. The middle one of the three spaces was known as the Holy Place. Outside of this was a third space, presumably of the same area as the Holy of Holies, to which is given the name of the Porch, though this was not its designation till the building of the Temple. In the Bible it is usually spoken of as “the door of the Tabernacle,” and the Eastern and archaic meaning of this term is a defined space and not a mere entrance threshold or passageway.

This porch, then, was a well defined area 32

York Rite Education of 12 feet square, and the devotions of the Sovereign, when there, would be made in public and must have been disturbed by the passing and re-passing of the priests as they performed their duties in the Holy Place, and at the Altar outside.

The area of the Porch of the Temple was fixed to allow of a floor of 12 feet deep, and 24 feet from side to side, twice the area of the portico of the Tabernacle. The Porch of the Temple was 40 cubits, or 48 feet high.

This splendid entrance hall had no outer doors. On the floor, this was continuous, on the tenth step, stood the two imposing Pillars flanking the entrance. The walls, ceiling, and floor were overlaid with gold, the two former ornamented in bas-relief, and the latter smooth. It is difficult to realize the effect of the rays of the rising sun as they shone full upon those surfaces of polished gold.

The eyes of the beholder must have been dazzled as they gazed upon the wonderful structure, by the scintillating reflection from every square inch of the glittering surface. One can readily understand the impression which must have been made on the Queen of Sheba and her retinue as they gazed upon it.

On each side of the Porch, and opening from it, was a small chamber, 12 feet by 6 feet in size, continuous with the lowest of the three stories of chambers built around the Temple walls. These two chambers were the “Treasuries of the Porch,” the plans of which were handed to Solomon by King David along with the other “patterns” of the Temple (1 Chron. 28:11). Here were stored the sacred utensils of the Temple, many of gold, and others of silver.

The gold-plated floor and walls of the Porch-entrance were relieved from bareness by two tables, one on each side. Of these tables one was of gold, the other of silver. When the attendant priest changed the 12 loaves of Shewbread, on each Sabbath day, the new loaves which had been presented to Jehovah were then brought out and placed on the golden table, as having the higher sanctity.

In the Right, or South, side of the Porch, in the corner, and not visible to one standing outside in front of the entrance, was the spiral stairway, described as a “winding stair”, leading to the floor above the Porch.

THE ROYAL ORATORY In order to avoid subjecting the King to the inconveniences of his worship as hitherto in the Tabernacle, it was planned to give him, in the Temple, a similar space but on the first floor, which should be reached by the spiral stairway. The plan was supplied by David to Solomon, as stated in 1 Chron. 27:11, “the pattern of the Porch and the houses thereof,” which included such a provision.

These “houses” or rooms were the Royal Oratory over the Porch, with a room above it, for storing wine, etc. (Jer. 35:1-5).

Of the height of 120 cubits given to the Porch-tower, 40 were allocated to the Portico, 40 to the royal Oratory, and the remaining 40 to the third chamber, attic, and roof.

These rooms were reached by the winding stair whose commencement was in the Right hand of South corner of the Porch. It must have been a work of extreme difficulty, in the infancy of architecture, to 33

York Rite Education build a perpendicular flight of stone steps to a height of over 100 feet, yet this is what was done. It was this final marvel of the “ascent by which he went up into the House of the Lord” that left “no more spirit” in the Queen of Sheba. This triumph of architectural skill surpassed all that she had seen of King Solomon’s magnificence, and, to a “dweller in tents” from the land of Arabia, the perpendicular ascent would doubtless seem to have savored of the miraculous.

On ascending the spiral staircase for 80 steps, each half a cubit in height, which must have resembled the tower stairs so common in lighthouses, the floor of the Royal oratory was reached. The walls and floor of this chamber were also overlaid with gold (2 Chron. 3:4). There was a throne for the solitary worshipper, and a table on which he could “eat bread before the Lord,” this being an essential part of all festival worship. It was also a cardinal official duty of the King to attend the Temple services on each Sabbath day, and so to indicate his continued obedience to Jehovah, Whose servant he was.

To permit the King to see the great Altar of Sacrifice, there was an opening in the front of the Porchtower, which admitted light to the Oratory. This opening was 16 cubits, or 19-1/5 feet, from side to side, and across this space were hung chains of brass, on which, at intervals, were decorations of pomegranate flowers. Guarded by these metal festoons the King, himself unseen, could see all that passed below at, and around the Altar of Burnt offering.

In the seclusion of this Royal Oratory some of the holiest scenes of Jewish history took place. Here Hezekiah entered, wearing sackcloth, on hearing the words of Rabshakeh (Isa. 37:1), and here he spread out Sennacherib’s letter before Jehovah (2 Kings 29:14).

To this place he came on the third day after his recovery from his serious illness. Here was the praying place of ll the godly Kings of Judah.

Here also the wicked Ahaz, who had shut up the doors of the House of the Lord (2 Chron. 28:24), still came to worship, the brazen Altar of Solomon being reserved for him “to inquire by” (2 Kings 16:15).

It was from this place that King Uzziah proceeded when he insisted upon forcing his way into the Holy Place, in spite of the opposition of the priests, to offer incense, for which sacrilegious act he was smitten with leprosy (2 Chron. 26:16).

THE THIRD CHAMBER Above the Royal Oratory arose the third chamber, or “Chamber of the Sons of Hanan,” low, but overlaid with gold throughout. In Jeremiah 25 this third chamber is mentioned. The Rechabites were conducted hither by the Prophet, who was also a Priest. They entered first into the Porch, which is described as the “chamber of Maaseiah,” “the keeper of the door,” and one of the chief officials of the Temple. From the Porch the company, by ascending the “winding staircase,” entered the “chamber of the Princes,” or royal Oratory, which was ‘by,” or above, that of Maaseiah, and, by farther ascent, they reached the third chamber call “The Chamber of the Sons of Hanan.” This third chamber was immediately beneath the attic of the Porch-tower, and was used as a storeroom for wine and other Temple offerings. Above the attic was the roof, or summit, of the Porch-tower.

THE HOLY PLACE Standing upon the golden floor of the Porch, surrounded on all sides by shining gold, a visitor facing 34

York Rite Education westwards would see a folding door. The leaves of this door were kept constantly closed, and were of elegant workmanship. The opening they closed was 6 feet wide. They were made of olive wood beautifully carved in low relief, the design being “cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers,” and overlaid with gold. The door was in the partition between the Porch and the Holy Place and was 24 feet high.

These folding doors being opened outwards into the Porch on hinges of gold, a second pair of folding doors came into view on the inner side of the partition, which was one cubit in thickness. The second set of doors was carved and decorated in the same way as the first, but the wood of which they were made was cypress. They opened inwards into the Holy Place, and were also overlaid with gold.

When both these sets of doors were opened, the visitor to the Temple (and priests only were permitted to enter) found himself gazing into the Holy Place.

Ascending the two steps by which the floor of the House was raised one cubit above the floor of the Porch, the visitor’s feet stood upon the golden floor of the Holy Place. All the objects which met the eye were either of pure gold or cased in gold.

There were no windows, properly so-called, in the Holy Place, but high up in the walls on each side there were what are called “windows of narrow lights,” stated in the margin of the Bible to have been “broad within and narrow without,” letting in air and a little light, but not capable of being opened and closed.

They were in fact what are known as clerestory lights, serving more as ventilators than anything else. It is evident that the chief illumination came from the ten seven-branched golden candelabra which were placed five on each side of the chamber, and these required the constant attention of the priests.

On the North or Left, side of the interior stood the golden Table of Shewbread. At the Western end stood a small golden altar, the Altar of Incense, which was the most holy of all the furniture around it. It stood before the partition separating the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, and upon it were burnt sweet spices every morning and evening, from which arose the incense that found its way into the Oracle.

The lower part of this partition was of olive wood, 10 cubits high and one cubit in depth, covered with gold. Supporting this were six golden pillars reaching to the roof and dividing it into five spaces. The centre space contained the entrance into the Oracle, which was guarded by a single set of folding doors opening outward into the Holy Place, and made of olive wood also, similarly decorated to the others and overlaid with gold. These folding doors were 10 cubits high, the height of the wooden screen, and their breadth was 4 cubits.

There was thus an open space above the wooden partition of 10 cubits, across which were stretched the golden chains that hung before the Oracle (I Kings vi, 21). These chains were decorated with 100 pomegranate flowers of gold and garnished with precious stones, and festooned from pillar to pillar.

This open construction of the upper part of the partition permitted the smoke arising from the golden Altar of Incense to find its way into the Holy of Holies or Oracle.

The olive-wood doors in the partition being opened outwards into the Holy Place displayed part of the veil of the Temple. This Veil was woven in one piece and made of textile material colored blue, purple, crimson, and byssus (fine twined linen, yellowish in color), with figures of cherubim wrought thereon (2 Chron. 3:14). The Veil being woven in a single piece had to be lifted, not parted, by the High Priest before he could enter to make atonement for his own and the People’s sins. It hung from the ceiling to 35

York Rite Education the floor, and covered the whole Eastern side of the cubical chamber, the Holy of Holies.

THE HOLY OF HOLIES The Holy of Holies, having no windows, was shrouded in darkness. No ray of sun, or artificial light, penetrated its sacred seclusion. Its walls, ceiling and floor were overlaid with pure gold, the walls and ceiling being covered with beautiful carvings, and the floor smooth.

On the floor, opposite the centre of the Western wall, stood the Ark of the Covenant, a small chest of acacia wood, 27 inches long, 16.2 inches in height, and the same in width, made by Moses for the Tabernacle nearly 500 years before. It is probable that the Ark rested upon a stone, as stated by Maimonides, or some other similar support. It was lined within and without with plates of gold. Around its upper edges was a molding or cornice, projecting above the level of its edges. Within this molding a lid of the same size as the chest lay, having neither hinges nor fastening. This lid or cover was named the Mercy-Seat. Upon the Mercy-Seat stood two figures of cherubim of hammered gold made in one piece with the movable cover, one at each end. The faces of the cherubim looked towards each other, and their wings were outstretched.

The Ark contained only the two tables of stone of the Law which Moses had placed there, the golden Pot of Manna, and Aaron’s Rod “that budded” having disappeared, probably at the time the Ark was captured by the Philistines (2 Kings 8:9).

At each corner of the Ark there was a golden ring, and through these were placed the golden staves for carrying it when the Tabernacle was moved from place to place in the Wilderness.

On each side of the Ark stood a colossal cherub, made of olive wood and overlaid with gold, 9 feet high, with outstretched wings, the outer wings touching the chamber walls on each side, the inner wings touching each the other.

Beyond the gilded staves which lay at the feet of the larger Cherubim, the Holy of Holies was unoccupied by any created thing.

This 24 feet cubic chamber was that towards which the heart of every faithful Hebrew turned in every distress, and from every quarter of the globe, his feelings of reverence, gratitude, hope, and adoration based upon the belief that “He that dwelleth in the Secret Place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps. 91:1).

CONCLUSION Such is the very meager account space permits me to give you of what must have been a magnificent and unique structure. There does not appear to be any evidence to show that the external appearance of the stonework was particularly striking, apart from the extreme whiteness of the stone, for there is no reason to suppose that the Temple was overlaid with gold externally, as is believed by some.

The striking characters of the exterior were the two famous and magnificent brass Pillars which stood in the front of the Porch, and the Porch-tower itself. This latter must have been an extraordinary structure, rising to a height of 120 cubits or 144 feet (2 Chron. 3:4), being only 24 feet from side to side, and 12 feet deep; but to this must be added the thickness of the walls, for these measurements refer only to the

36

York Rite Education inside of the structure. It must have completely dwarfed the rest of the building which was but 36 feet height at the apex of the roof. This height of 144 feet, though often repudiated, is still the dominating element of the Temple facade.

The “exceedingly magnificent” aspect of the Temple was its interior for everywhere, on all four sides of the structure, there was one continuous blaze of glittering gold, and only on the floor was this gold smooth and plain. The walls and ceiling were covered with exquisite designs in bas-relief. All the furniture of the Temple, Candelabra, Altars, Tables, Ark, and the Cherubim were of gold or cased in gold, while the golden chains in front of the Holy of Holies were studded with precious stones.

As I premised at the outset I have confined my self to a description only of the Temple proper. I have not attempted to include in this short account any description of the Courts surrounding the Shrine, the Altar of Burnt Offering, the great Brazen Sea, the Lavers, nor the King’s Palace which occupied 13 years in building, and the other buildings which made up the Temple in its entirety. All these you must conjure up for yourselves, as well as the magnificence of the morning and evening services, presided over by the High Priest, clad in gorgeous robes with his Breastplate of gold blazing with divers gems glorious in size and color, surrounded by attendant priests, and by the thousands of devout worshippers.

For nearly five centuries the Temple of King Solomon existed, though repeatedly despoiled, till in the year 588 B.C., and, according to Josephus, exactly 470 years, 6 months and 10 days after it was built it was utterly and ruthlessly destroyed, by command of Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. Nebuzaradan, the King’s General, besieged Jerusalem, and having taken the Holy City he pillaged and burnt the beautiful structure, and conveyed all the holy vessels to Babylon.

A Blue Lodge Brother is waiting...

For you to invite him to continue and complete his York Rite of Freemasonry journey.

Remember York Rite is the Continuation of Blue Lodge.

37

York Rite Leadership Education

By S.K. David A. Aponte, E. Grand Captain General

How Well Do You Delegate?

Committees and teams exist for one reason only: to do jobs that are too large, too complex or too fastchanging for any one individual to do on his own. Assigning work to others is an integral part of getting things done efficiently, however many people feel uncomfortable with delegating.

When you consider delegating, start by deciding what you can delegate and when. Know when you should ask your some of your officers, appointed committeemen and Members to perform certain tasks and make decisions. Once you know which tasks are appropriate to delegate, it's much easier to decide to whom - and how - to delegate.

If you try to delegate work that's inappropriate or should be done by you, you'll probably fail - despite your best planning and support. For example, you might want to ask your strongest York Rite member to prepare a presentation for you, but if the words and thoughts aren't yours, chances are the speech won't connect with the audience. In that case, doing it yourself will likely save you time and stress.

Consider these points when you decide whether delegating is appropriate: • Time: Do you have enough time to delegate? You must be able to give sufficient instruction and support as necessary. And you also need to give yourself enough time to make corrections if needed.

• Availability: Is someone available to do the task? You must have members with the necessary skills and expertise to complete the job successfully. Often, the best tasks to delegate are those for which one of your members have more expertise or information than you do.

• Criticality: Is the work critical to the success of the organization? High profile tasks that have a low tolerance for mistakes are often better done yourself. For instance, responsibilities that have to do with strategic initiatives is not typically delegation material. If needed, delegate more of your lower level work to make sure you have time to do a superb job of the vital work.

Delegating work to a Companion/Sir Knight or committee takes thought and consideration. If you delegate to the wrong person or committee, you may spend too much time instructing and supporting the work. If you delegate too much to one person, you risk incomplete results, and an unhappy, overstressed individual.

Think about these issues when deciding to whom you should delegate: • Organizational by-laws: Delegate to members according to the by-laws, skills and people who report to you. Following the chain of command is a better solution. Open communication is important when delegating.

• Membership buy-in: Consider how committed you need your members to be. Gaining their cooperation and support in the delegating decision can be critical to success. They'll feel more involved and more committed to the results.

• Individual vs team: Some tasks can be easily completed by one person. But when you delegate bigger pieces of work, think about how many people should be involved and what skills you need.

Here are some key things to consider: • Clarify your expectations: Tell the Companion or Sir Knight to whom you are delegating what you need accomplished and why it's important. When he knows the desired results, it's much easier to 38

York Rite Leadership Education see the "big picture" and work accordingly. If possible, connect the task to organizational goals.

• Establish checkpoints: Plan how you're going to ensure the work is being completed according to plan by establishing checkpoints at different stages the project. This doesn't mean asking, "How's it going?" every hour - that would be oppressive. Manage the risk of mistakes occurring by being proactive and staying in the loop at key points within the project.

• Delegate the results, not the process: Focus on the end result and, unless the Companion / Sir Knight to whom you're delegating is inexperienced, allow him to determine how best to achieve it. If you dictate exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to do it, you limit the learning potential, and you risk not taking proper advantage of the person’s experience.

• Define your role: Explain how much support you'll provide. Let the Companion/Sir Knight know whether to wait for your instructions or make independent recommendations and decisions. Often, the more authority you give, the better the end result will be - however, use your discretion, depending on the task and the individual. Make sure the person understands whether independent initiative is mandatory.

• Talk about consequences: If you allow Companions / Sir Knights to have authority over their work, inform them of the consequences of both successful and unsuccessful results.

Once you get used to delegating and your confidence builds, you can use proactive delegation as an empowerment tool. Plan to delegate larger projects and more decisions.

Include your Officers, Committeemen and members in the delegation decisions. Allow people to have a say in what tasks they want to take on. This increases their motivation, empowers them, and reinforces their value to the overall team.

Delegation doesn't come naturally to most of us, and we can often think it's easier and safer to do everything ourselves. Unfortunately, this approach often leads to more stress and less time to work on our priorities.

Delegation is a time management strategy that you must practice. You can't do everything – so decide what you must do yourself and what you can delegate to others. When you learn to delegate effectively, you'll be rewarded with more time and a more empowered and satisfied Chapter, Council and Commandery. That's a win-win!

Faith in God, Family Values, Patriotic Values Tolerance, Respect, Generosity, Loyalty, Justice, Humility, Courage and Nobility

American Masonic Values 39

York Rite Events Ocala Council No. 22 of Royal & Select Masters has the honor and pleasure to invite all Cryptic Masons, Blue Lodge Brethren, Appendant Bodies and their Ladies to come and celebrate with us our Annual Table Council.

Date:

Friday, December 19, 2008

Place:

Ocala Elks Lodge (702 NE 25th Ave. Ocala, FL)

Time:

Fraternization - 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM

Dinner - 6:30 PM

Speaker & Toasts - Immediately after dinner

Cost:

$25.00 per person

Dinner:

New York Strip Steak or Chicken Cordon Bleu

Twice Baked Potato or Baked Potato

Carrots or Broccoli

Please RSVP for the food count on or before Monday, December 15, 2008 with your choice of menu.

Contact:

R. Illustrious Steve Mitchell

828 NE 51st Ave.

Phone: (352) 236-6225

Ocala, FL 34470

Christmas Observance Sir Knights, just a reminder that Commanderies throughout the United States celebrate every year Christmas Observance during December. The Toast and Message from the Grand Master and Grand Commander will be sent to you soon by our Grand Recorder. Remember to report to the Grand Prelate, S. K. Daniel Williams, the number of Sir Knights, Ladies, Brethren and Visitors that came to the Observance.

Religious Affirmation Companions The Grand Chapter expects all Florida Chapter to hold a Religious Affirmation, I will send out a Religious Affirmation Report Form which will need to be returned no later than December 15th, If you have any questions, please e-mail me (taz1957@tampabay.rr.com).

Fraternally, Right Exc. Anthony Marotta Jr. Grand Scribe 40

York Rite Items Knight Templar Uniforms Suit City, Sumpter, SC:

Ask for Joe. 1-803-773-2262 (not toll free)

Price of uniform is $110.00 plus shipping Shipping is about $14.00. Coat is Double Breasted and includes sleeve crosses and FLA # on breast pocket. Tell him the number of your Commandery and give him a credit card number and pants size.

Those who have ordered from him say that these are light summer weight uniforms and great.

Universal Chapeau Boley - Ruyle

P.O. Box 130524

Tyler TX 75713-0524

1-800-553-0015 or 1-903-597-9545

These have an adjustable headband and comes complete with black underplume and 4 ply 8 inch by 22 inch white ostrich plume together with Sir Knight rosette.

Sir Knight Chapeau

$185.00 Mylar

Grand Officer Rosette add $95.00

Past Commanders

$230.00 Bullion

Past Grand Rosette add $95.00

They also have Chapeau cases, Malta and Red Cross Jewels, swords and belts.

Knights Templar SWORD CASE

100% Leather

Inside Lining

Gator or Lizard Embossed Color: Black Cost : $35.00 until November 28, 2008 Cost after November 28th: $50.00 Shipping cost is separate. $5.00 from the sale will be donated to the Knights Templar Eye Foundation We also have Sword Belt hooks: 2 for $5.00 Shipping & Handling separate If interested, please contact S.K. David Aponte by e-mail: daponte1@tampabay.rr.com or send a letter to: 6620 W. Constitution Lane, Homosassa, Florida 34448 with your name, address, phone number and the size of your sword from tip to tip.

As soon as your case is done you will be notified prior to mailing.

41

The Grand York Rite Bodies of Florida Salute our Veterans November 11th - Veteran’s Day

If you see a Soldier or a Veteran, Thank Them for their Valor and Sacrifice to uphold our Liberties and Freedom.

The Florida York Rite Mason P. O. Box 292 Lecanto, FL 34460-0292

Article(s), Event(s), News, Announcements , etc, to be published in our next issue, need to be forwarded to the following Companions, on or before the next deadline: David A. Aponte - daponte1@tampabay.rr.com ; Charles “Chic” Cicero - Ciceros@ tampabay.rr.com or Ron Blaisdell - ron@Blaisdell.com

Deadline for Next Issue December 15th, 2008