Kansas Mason - Spring 2023

THE KANSAS M ASON

Dates to Remember

March 16-18 Annual Communication - Topeka

March 16 Drawing for Lodge Raffle car - Topeka

April 15 2nd Degree Saturday

June 3 Grand Master's tri-Lodge meeting & Festive Board

July 11-15 Masonic Band Camp & Shrine Bowl - Hays

Sept. 7 & 9 Guild Meeting

Sept. 23 Old Oak Tree Lodge

March 14-16. 2024- Annual Communication - Wichita

Check the online calendar for the most up to date information and details.

KansasMason.org

Grand Master:

Deputy Grand Master:

Grand Senior Warden:

Grand Junior Warden:

Grand Secretary:

Grand Treasurer:

Michael D. Johnson, II

Peace Lodge No. 243, Louisburg

Robert D. McClarty

Lindsborg Lodge No 397

Douglas L. Wilkinson

Belleville Lodge No. 129

Derik Hockett

Belleville Lodge No. 129

Tracy L. Bloom, PGM

Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina

B. Cole Presley, PGM

Millbrook Lodge 281, Hill City

The Kansas Mason is published by the The Grand Lodge of Kansas, A.F. & A.M. The views and opinions expressed in the Kansas Mason are the author's and do

necessarily reflect those of the Grand Lodge of Kansas or its' officers. All

Leadership is the Key to Success

There are several discussions as to why membership in Freemasonry has continually declined for the last several decades. They range from societal shifts away from fraternal orders to simply membership correcting itself from a quasi-high after the World Wars. The relevance of such topics can not be ignored because each does possess some level of truth and adds context to any discourse; however, many of these topics are, honestly, outside the control of any individual or group and cannot be changed. What, then, is to be deemed from such a revelation?

The primary concept gained from such an epiphany is that discussion is worthwhile, but the effort should be directed towards something that can be controlled. Any plan to implement such an idea requires leadership, perhaps the primary skill lacking in Freemasonry today. Now, that is not to say there are not great leaders, but there are not great leaders at every level and geographical area that Freemasonry has a presence. This is an unequivocal truth that has been ignored, but fortunately, leadership is a skill that can be taught and learned. Like any skill, it takes practice, discussion, learning, and a formal acknowledgment of its necessity.

For too long, leadership has presided in their positions and not given the Craft proper instruction. In response, the Craft waits….and grows complacent…. sluggish in ideas and thoughts….and creativity slowly wisps away.

That is the problem that is the foremost adversary in Freemasonry and the immediate challenge that needs to be addressed today. The path forward requires leadership to implement a few prevailing themes in a Lodge; be humble, be truthful, be an example, and set goals. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it is a great start.

To be humble.

A person’s ego creates situations where selfishness reigns supreme and is never a positive experience, especially in the servant leadership environment that Freemasonry is supposed to be. The ego must be left at home and any fraternal or societal interaction occurs on a foundation of humility. This opens the door for challenging personal insight and consideration of other thoughts and ideas on any subject. Learning starts at this point.

To be truthful.

Sometimes this is painful for everyone involved, but there is no path forward based on a falsehood. A lodge cannot address challenges unless they understand the challenges that are faced, and that takes an acknowledgment of the truth. As Masons though, the truth should be offered with empathy and a willingness to help in any way possible. This is also a tenet of great leadership.

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To be an example.

In everything that is done, as a Freemason, it is imperative that exemplary behavior is presented in all fraternal and societal interactions. The bottom line: act like someone is always watching and learning; be the quintessential mentor. Freemasonry equips its membership with many lessons on morality and virtue. That is fortunate for Masons who understand this, but if we are honest with ourselves, many Masons do not invest themselves with these teachings and remain illequipped to provide a true leadership source. This fact needs to be recognized and acknowledged before a path forward is charted, leading to humility and the start of this process.

To set goals.

There always must be goals. Some are easily attainable, while others are very difficult to accomplish. As a leader, one must have conversations and gain some level of consensus among the Craft. Throughout these musings among Brothers, humility and truthfulness are laid bare before each other, and genuine trust is nurtured. Exemplary actions and behaviors are discussed and

finalized, ultimately leading to the establishment of goals. Short-term goals are the immediate need and are stepping stones that lead down the overarching path to the more difficult ones. This is how any great and important goal is accomplished; accomplishing several smaller ones leads to the successful attainment of a large goal. Moreover, this also avoids the potential for getting overwhelmed, as success occurs as each short-term goal is conquered.

There are many reasons as to the why and how of declining membership, and it is easy to focus on a particular perception. However, the whole picture cannot be seen unless leadership steps back from the situation and understands the overall problem. In this case, leadership is the problem, and it will take great leaders to find success. Masonry has witnessed success for centuries, and that is not because the easy path has been the right path, but more than likely, it is because Masons have stayed true to the core values and beliefs of the fraternity.

Michael D. Johnson II Grand Master of Masons in Kansas 2022-2023

THE BOTTOM LINE

.......leadership is a skill that can be taught and learned. Like any skill, it takes practice, discussion, learning, and a formal acknowledgment of its necessity.

Setting goals - Just Do It!

Douglas L. Wilkinson, Grand Senior Warden, Belleville Lodge No. 129

The Grand Master's article said to set goals, so let's talk about how to do that! Every Lodge is different, and every Lodge plan will vary accordingly. Some Lodges create very detailed plans while others may sketch theirs on a napkin. Even though it’s only been a couple of months since installation, this is an excellent time to look at what may have changed over the past twelve months and tweak your plans accordingly. If you haven’t started one yet, you can still create one. It’s not too late!

If your Lodge hasn’t made a plan for the future, you need to. I recommend starting with a meeting of your Lodge’s officers, committee chairs, and regularly attending members. Yes, I do understand in many lodges those may all be the same small group of people. Together, some simple goals for the year can be established. Next, create a plan to achieve those goals. Warning! Don’t create any goals you can never achieve. Start small and work your way up to more difficult ones.

To assist you and your Lodge in setting goals and executing a plan to achieve them, I will share part of a 2019 Leadership Academy presentation titled, Planning For The Future, or 7 Simple Steps to the Strategic Planning Process. To alleviate a “scare” factor for some, you may need to remove the word Strategic. I encourage you to look at the entire presentation in the membership area of the Grand Lodge website under the Masonic Education tab. The material should be simple and easy to follow. Have some fun with it.

Even after reviewing other materials, you may still need some help priming the pump on planning and goals.

Let me ask some questions and give some ideas that can help your Lodge in multiple ways and should not be difficult to achieve.

•Have we completed our annual financial audit?

If you have not, please stop and do so immediately.

•Do we meet regularly?

If you are not, make a plan to do so.

•Can we open and close our Lodge without ciphers?

If you can’t, set up a plan to practice. Here’s the tip of this issue: start by opening and closing on the First Degree. Once you master that, you can open and close on all of them!

•Do we meet to practice/study for improvement?

If everyone is coming for a fellowship hour, a great time to practice is after you eat! If you don’t have a fellowship hour, start one. You will be surprised how fast you will improve each meeting.

•Do we attend Area Meetings?

Make sure you understand when these take place. If you don’t know, ask your District Deputy. Good things are going on at these meetings that you can bring back to your Lodge.

•Do we attend Schools of Instruction?

I often hear, “I don’t know the words, so I am afraid to go.” Forget about the words. The floor work and understanding everything from opening and closing to raising Master Masons is very educational. Additionally, you will be surprised how much you may remember. Go and soak it up. Have fun at a School of Instruction with the Brothers of your Lodge.

•Have we talked to our District Deputy about any improvements we should make based on his Spring visit? Don’t let him out the door until he tells you! He is detailing in writing things that will help you if you improve on them!

These are seven simple and easy things for every Lodge to work on. There are obviously others. However, others will come a little easier if you can get these.

For the Lodges who have already completed the above, remember that no Battle Plan ever survives first contact with the enemy! What does that mean? It means you will need to adjust your plan for those unexpected changes that will negatively impact achieving your established goals. You can and will achieve your goals, but you will most certainly have to tweak your plan to achieve them.

Lastly, have fun and make your Masonic experience a fun and joyful adventure!

When is the Last Time?

Jonté Gold, Junior Grand Warden, M∴ W∴ Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas

When is the last time? It’s a simple question that, depending on the context, can have a million different answers. Let me give you some examples. When is the last time you went to a Lodge meeting? Has it been a while, or have you been attending faithfully? When is the last time you called and checked on an older Lodge Brother? When was the last time you reached out to a disengaged/lost Brother? When is the last time you volunteered to be on a committee? When is the last time you took a seat in your Lodge? When is the last time you volunteered to take an active role in degree work or a funeral ceremony? When is the last time you checked on a fallen Brother’s widow or orphans? When is the last time, Brothers?

When is the last time you attended Grand Session? When is the last time you visited a sick Brother? When is the last time you donated your time for your Lodge? When is the last time you will wear your Apron? When is the last time you will put on your black suit and tie? When is the last time you will look in the mirror before leaving the house with your briefcase headed to a Lodge meeting? When is the last time you will see that Brother? When will you have your final Masonic act?

As we all know, each of us has a predestined appointment to reside in that celestial Lodge of Eternity. You see, my Brothers, there is a reason for the saying, “A craftsman’s work is never done.” We can all, myself included, always do a little more. This is one of the interesting little facts of life in most things…. All it takes is just a little more.

A little more is what separates good from great. Collectively, a little more is the difference between where we are now and where we once were. Individually, a little more has kept our great Fraternity alive since time immemorial. A little more was that Brother that stayed after meeting to clean up, that Brother that brought food and refreshment for a repast after a meeting, that Brother that helped another Brother when in need, that

Brother that offered his services when needed. All Brothers giving a little more can have a great effect. Edifices are built piece by piece and brick by brick, and they fall apart the same way. That one Brother can be the linchpin that brings and holds a Lodge together. So, eventually, their light can shine collectively. Freemasonry has a way of bringing men together and collectively accomplishing great things only made possible through individual efforts. We should treat every conversation with a Brother, every Lodge interaction, as if it will be the last time. Always do your best and make your last time a good time.

2022 ESSAY TOPIC

Freemasons throughout the world, the Grand Lodge of Kansas, and local Masonic Lodges support public education and value highly the seven classic liberal arts and sciences: grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy.

Discuss which of these fields of study you consider most valuable to your future and career. Or, if you were to add another subject to the list, what would it be and why is it so vital to your future success?

Be sure to properly document any research supporting your conclusions.

WINNERLIST

First Place($4,000)

HANNAH EIKENBERRY

Hays High School

Hays Lodge No. 195

SecondPlace($3,000)

GUNNAR BALL

Perry-Lecompton HighSchool

Perry Lodge No. 415

Third Place($2,000)

HARPER HOWZE

Sumner Academy

Wyandotte Lodge No. 3

Fourth Place($1,000)

KARLY KILL

West Elk High School

Hope Lodge No. 155

HonorableMention($500)

WENDEL HOGAN

Erie High School

Erie Lodge No. 76

HonorableMention($500)

DREW SHIRLEY

Riley Co High School

Lafayette Lodge No.16

HonorableMention($500)

CODY BLACK

Santa Fe Trail High School

Carbondale Lodge No. 70

HonorableMention($500)

MORGAN WESTON

Beloit High School

Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145

Generation Z is known as the “Zoomers.” This nickname has always made me laugh, but when I ponder over why, it makes sense. We take the fast lane. There are a million things swirling around us every second, and it’s harder and harder to have intentional moments with each other. Communication is at an all-time low, and mental health issues have spiked because of this. I want to help by becoming a therapist. Using the classic art of rhetoric is essential to my success in a mental health career. To build connections, I will use rhetoric to foster relationships, combat crumbling communication, and unite my community.

When a client attends therapy, they are looking for compassion, guidance, and a listening ear. Imagine laying your heart on your sleeve to a complete stranger, and you can start to understand how difficult it is. I want my clients to feel comfortable and using clear speech can help. From the University of Illinois. “Knowing how to use the tools of rhetoric can improve your communication and can help more people to agree with your perspective,”

(University of Illinois 2022). Therapy is an exchange. I will have to persuade clients every day. Struggling individuals are sometimes hard to convince to take careof themselves.

Verbal communication does not come easy to my generation. Put us behind a screen and we can talk for hours, but there’s something about standing face to face that gives us the shakes. The use of technology had led to

crippling decrease in communication and toxic comparison is a detrimental side effect. “When we get on social media, we are looking for affirmation, and consciously or not, we are comparing our life to the lives of others,” (Piedmont Healthcare 2022). The negative effects of technology are not only felt by “zoomers,” but also by our communities as well.

I want to use rhetoric in my future practice and on the streets of my community, whether that be with friends, family, or neighbors. In our current climate, apprehension and passive aggression are sooner brought to the table than a clear mind and air of understanding. “When we understand one another, we can work together to find solutions to problems. This is true even when we disagree,” (Hill 2018). The words we use can unite cities, but also tear them down just as fast. Everyone is open to listening to your point of view, if only you present it in a way that they are prepared to receive. I want to use my language to unite my community in a positive way.

Rhetoric is an essential tool to my future success as a therapist. I can harness it to foster relationships, build communication, and increase understanding in my community. All those around us need compassion, if only we are willing to give it. From the words of Buddha, “Whatever words we utter should be chosen with care for people will hear them and be influenced by them for good or ill.”

Hanna Eikenberry fromHays HighSchool,sponsoring Hays LodgeNo. 195.

Masonic Unity Day

Alex Powers, DSM, Kansas Lodge of Research Director

January 14th, 2023, marked a very proud day in Kansas Masonry. It was even officially proclaimed Masonic Unity Day in the state of Kansas by the Governor. So what was it all about? Simply put, it was a celebration of 25 years of full recognition, with no small print, between the Grand Lodge of Kansas A.F. & A.M. and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas F. & A.M.

Before getting into the details of the 2023 celebration, we need to look back at the history and the struggle to get to this point, making it the pinnacle of pride that it is now.

While I hope you know the powerful and beautiful story of Prince Hall Freemasonry, our story will jump ahead to the specifics involved in the history here in Kansas. The important part here to remember, typically conveniently forgotten, is that the underlying reason for Prince Hall Freemasonry to exist is, in fact, racism at the core. History is evident. Black men were not allowed to become Freemasons in a “white” lodge, and most did not even acknowledge that Prince Hall Freemasons were legitimate Masons at all.

Through the years, most Grand Jurisdictions refused to recognize Prince Hall Freemasonry in their respective jurisdictions and labeled them as clandestine. This was done under the banner of jurisdictional legality by saying that it was not allowed for any other jurisdiction to claim authority over Masonic Lodges within their territory. While this makes sense in the larger picture, the fine print here is clear to read. In the old Annual Proceedings, you will find Grand Masters stating there is no need for another Gradn Lodge system in the state, and nothing prevents those men from petitioning a lodge under our Grand Lodge. While this is indeed a true statement, as nothing was stopping them from petitioning, BUT there was no chance they would be voted in at the end of the day.

As we have moved into what we now consider “modern times,” that old reasoning seems to lead to

questions and statements about the two Kansas Grand Lodges merging and why Prince Hall doesn’t just join “us.” While I know these statements are made with good intentions, they are not the answer. I would counter, why do we (the Grand Lodge of Kansas) not fold and join Kansas Prince Hall Masonry? What about Missouri? Should we merge with them as well?

The issue here is not merging or having two Grand Lodges; it is simply about recognition, which was this year’s event’s entire point and pride.

What do you do if a Brother Mason from Missouri shows up to attend your Lodge? You make sure he is legitimate and let him enter, the same as you would with any other member from Kansas or your Lodge! For 25 years, that is precisely how Kansas has received our Prince Hall Brothers. For 25 strong years, there have been no limitations, small print, smoke, or mirrors. Two jurisdictions, One Brotherhood.

In January of 1998, after much discussion and planning, Grand Master Roy Althouse of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas and Grand Master Jeffrey L. Sowder of the Grand Lodge of Kansas sat down to make it official by signing a Compact between our two respective Grand Lodges. This historic agreement allowed for full joint fraternal (continued on page 13)

The author and his wife at the Unity Day Festive Board celebration.

WHEREAS,

RESOLUTION OF AFFIRMATION BETWEEN

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A.M. of Kansas and

The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A.F. and A.M. of Kansas

For over one hundred twenty years, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A.M. of Kansas and The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A.F. and A.M. of Kansas existed within the geographical bounds of the state of Kansas.

In 1997, the leaders of our ancient and honorable Orders determined that a formal agreement would mutually benefit both jurisdictions. An agreement, or Compact, was drafted that would be an example to all wheresoever dispersed, on how we as men and Masons should meet, act, and part.

In January 1998, the Compact was signed While each Grand Lodge was recognized as independent and sovereign, it was more importantly recognized that we are of but one Brotherhood under the governance of the Grand Architect of the Universe and no fraternal restrictions should be had between the two. The Craft of each Grand Lodge overwhelmingly ratified the historic agreement.

The Masonic Grand Lodges of Kansas have operated in unanimity and concord for twenty-five years. Together the Grand Lodges have diligently labored laying cornerstones, dedicating and consecrating public buildings, performing degree work, raising funds for charitable causes, participating in festive boards, and demonstrating leadership and Masonic principles by example.

BE IT NOW RESOLVED, on this, the twenty-fifth anniversary of the formal signing of the Compact between The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M of Kansas and The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A.M. of Kansas, we reaffirm the findings and actions of our predecessors and, further, that Peace, Harmony, and Brotherly Love exists in full. Upon continued examination of the state of Masonry in Kansas, it is imperative that our Masonic family remain united and that we continue to be the example for others less informed. Indeed, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.

Jeffrey L. Boykin

Michael D. Johnson, II Grand Master Grand Master Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A.M of Kansas Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas

January 14, 2023

relations between the two governing bodies of Masonry for the first time in the history of Kansas Freemasonry. Twenty-five years later, on January 14th, 2023, our jurisdictions met again to renew that agreement and publicly proclaim our continuation of the solid relations and friendships our jurisdictions have forged and shared for the last 25 years.

Before the official Compact celebration event, another event occurred at Constitution Hall in Topeka. Constitution Hall was an important location during the Bleeding Kansas era as it was the meeting place where a Past Deputy Grand Master, among many others, gathered to develop the first of the proposed Kansas Constitutions. This particular Constitution went as far as not only making slavery completely illegal in the state but also would have given blacks the right to vote, which was extremely progressive for the time. Sadly, for this reason, the Constitution did not pass. Two other versions, including the pro-slavery Lecompton Constitution, were proposed before finally finding agreement with the Wyandotte Constitution, which was accepted and allowed us to join the Union. The Wyandotte Constitution did outlaw slavery but did not go as far as giving blacks the right to vote. Nevertheless, Constitution Hall in Topeka was a prominent piece in the overall journey of Civil Rights. Our Kansas Grand Lodges chose that location to gather and sign an agreement that, upon its renovation, a joint dedication will be held, further honoring the history of the site as well as continuing our bond and promise to work together as Kansas Masons.

In the evening, about two hundred Masons and their ladies gathered at Hotel Topeka for a historic joint Festive Board. A procession followed by the

formal signing and renewal of the Kansas Compact kicked off the evening’s festivities. The importance of this occasion is still highlighted in the fact that Kansas holds FULL recognition with our Prince Hall counterparts without small print. Why do I keep saying “small print.” In a day and age where some Grand Lodge jurisdictions say they have recognition, much remains hidden. For many, while they do have recognition, in reality, like used-car salesmen have a reputation for, there is a list of disappointing terms and conditions that go along with that “recognition.” Recognition seems to be just that they acknowledge the other organization exists. The even sadder situation is that a few jurisdictions still, in 2023, refuse to recognize our Prince Hall Brothers as true Freemasons.

On this day, the crowd present to witness and celebrate consisted of what appeared to be an equal mix of members from both Kansas Grand Lodges.

The Grand Masters, appearing to emulate 1998 Grand Masters Althouse and Sowder, sat at a table, flanked by Grand Lodge officers and signed several copies of the renewal document, after which the Grand Lodge Seals were affixed. In an emotional moment, the recessional consisted of the corresponding Grand Lodge officers embracing behind the signed documents and exiting together side by side. Afterward, a Festive Board was held and toasts were made with a commemorative firing cannon. Copies of the 1998 and 2023 documents, along with the Governor’s Proclamation, were given to all to take home.

In attendance or not, this day should be part of your Masonic experience. Kansas Masons, together, celebrating, breaking bread, and toasting the bright future of Kansas Masonry as a whole.

IN SEARCH OF LIGHT

Submitted by Daniel C. Minde, Hugoton Lodge No. 406

The search for light is an evolving one that shouldn't ever stop. Imagine starting an exciting new job. You put your best foot forward, eager to learn and contribute, expecting to be trained and given expectations. To your shock and dismay, your supervisor expects you to be immediately proficient just because you have the right qualifications. You may even be thrown into a leadership position before you are ready. This experience is similar to when we raise Brothers in our Craft and don't provide them with any other type of training. Fortunately, we have a mentorship program that should be used to help a Brother through his degrees. I often wonder how many have used the mentorship material, available for free

and supplied by Grand Lodge.

It is impressive how those materials can truly help Brothers prepare for their next degree. I have often thought of what it would be like if someone started driving without the proper instruction. The result would be a lot of inexperienced drivers because they needed to receive the appropriate training. Instead of driving on the road believing everyone is roadworthy because of the preparation and instruction given to them, we had individuals that just took a test. The number of driving violations and crashes would instrumentally increase.

As a young Mason myself, I sometimes wonder

how prepared I am to be where I am. I remember my experience working through the degree work as I had terrific Brothers who knew the ritual. But I still needed more information about the degree's duties, privileges, and responsibilities. My journey in masonry didn't end once I received my degrees. I was put into positions I wasn't necessarily prepared for and had to learn by fire. Personally, I wish I had been able to learn a little bit at a time instead of from a fire hose. With our mentorship program, our young Masons can prepare gradually, which should help prevent them from being overwhelmed.

Our duty to the Craft is to prepare Brothers in their search for light. Regarding proficiency, the minimum standard in Kansas just covers memorizing ritual work and reciting it back. I believe being genuinely proficient also means understanding the meaning behind the ritual work as well. Do our Brothers understand what the obligations they take mean? Do they know more than what is in their cipher or recited to them? I had to search for that information because I wanted to know. I needed to know! If we are going to have a mentorship program for the new Brothers in our fraternity, we need to ensure that we prepare them as they search for the light they desire. How many Brothers who never progressed beyond becoming an Entered Apprentice would have continued if they had a mentor through the process? I know experience includes searching for new ways to get involved. In my continual journey for more light, I don't have one mentor now, but many. I look up to them, seek their opinions, and ask questions when I need help understanding something. These amazing Brothers, however, were involved in my journey when I first began. I know this will take extra work, but if

it means that our Craft is growing and thriving, the payout is worth it. As an Area Deputy Grand Master, I visited a Lodge on the brink of consolidation, and, as somewhat of a mentor, we discussed if that was what they really wanted to do. Instead of proceeding along their originally planned path, they are looking at how to bring new members into their lodge and grow again. My challenge to them and to all Masons is to make the experience one they will remember. As Brothers progress through their degrees, it should be something they will never forget.

I certainly remember my initiation and degree experiences, do you? I always aim to make the experience for any Brother I come in contact with one they won't forget. I also encourage everyone to remember we are the representatives of our Craft. It isn't just our Brothers in leadership positions but all of us showcasing what Freemasonry is to our community. I had the honor of helping a new potential candidate begin his search for light by simplifying and showing him what it means to be a Mason. As I conclude, my challenge to you is, what does it mean to be an Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason? If you don't know, no matter your Masonic or actual age, look at the mentorship materials and maybe even find a mentor or partner to assist you in your quest for the light. As Masons, we should always be searching for the inextinguishable light. Author's Note:

New Kansas Masonic Lodge Program

As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities and individuals. In recent years, Kansas Masons have displayed their commitment to the success of local communities by supporting various charitable endeavors, contributing over $200,000 worth of scholarships annually to local students, offering free cancer screenings to Kansas residents through the Masonic Cancer Alliance, sponsoring the Kansas Entrepreneurial Challenge, participating in the Kansas PRIDE Program, and supporting lodges through a Matching Funds Program in their local communities.

Continuing with their support of local communities, the Kansas Masons have decided to serve as the Title Sponsor for the next five(5) years for the new NextGenUnder30 Kansas program, an organization endorsed by Governor Laura Kelly and Lt. Governor

and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, that recognizes Kansas’ next generation of leaders and achievers who demonstrate talent, drive, and service to their communities. By organizing such a program to recognize local talent and contributions, the Kansas Department of Commerce hopes to encourage Kansas residents to continue working and residing in the state while also attracting prospective out-of-state students to attend local universities.

Through partnership with the organization, all statewide Kansas Masonic Lodges will be able to help nominate exceptional individuals under 30 from their local communities while encouraging innovative, creative, and inspiring people to push the boundaries in various categories of endeavor. More information can be obtained, and nominations can be made at www.nextgenunder30ks.com.

Leadership in Kansas Masonry... Is it Pay to Play?

Submitted by Mikel J. Stoops, Master Mason (De Soto Lodge No. 40)

First, I must offer a sincere apology to all my Brothers. Unbeknownst to me, some of my previous actions regarding auction buying and charitable contributions led some to believe that these were a prerequisite for advancing in leadership in our jurisdiction. This was never my intention, and it is just not the case. The facts are that I enjoy the thrill of an auction, and I was going to make contributions anyway. I just thought that, in some cases, it would be fun to do so via the auctions. It never entered my mind that my purchases and other cash contributions were seen as “Buying” into positions in Masonry. I simply valued the programs being supported, and Pam (my wife) and I are comfortable enough to make those contributions. If others saw it differently, I am very sorry.

I can tell you that the idea that leadership in Kansas Masonry is Pay-to-Play is appalling to me. I have never looked at the list of contributions our leaders, officers,

appointees, or awardees have made. When I had a part in deciding on appointments or awards, a person’s ability or willingness to make charitable donations was never a factor. The ability or desire to make cash donations does not indicate anyone’s ability or fitness for leadership, appointment, or awards. Further, thinking that this is the case might prove the opposite.

My final advice to everyone is this. If someone from an organization within Masonry approaches you with an offer and indicates that your willingness to financially support their organization or endeavor will be a favorable indicator of your merit for a leadership position, office, appointment, or award …. RUN AWAY! Do not walk! The integrity of the organization and even of the person making such a claim is suspect at best.

Leadership in Kansas Masonry is NOT Pay-to-Play!