Randal Jager Most Worshipful Grandmaster
Bo Buchanan Worshipful Grand Editor Arizona Masonry is an official publication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Arizona. Unless otherwise noted, articles in this publication express only the private opinion or assertions of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks only through the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge Trustees when attested to as official in writing by the Grand Secretary. The Editorial staff invites the contributions in the form of informative articles, reports, news and other timely information (Of about 350 to 800 words in length) that is broadly related to general Masonry. When possible, photographs or graphics that support the submission are appreciated. Pieces submitted become the property of the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M. of Arizona. No compensation is permitted for any article, photograph, or other submitted for publication. Permission to reprint articles is automatically granted to recognized Masonic publication with proper credit given.
MWGM Randal Jager
WBro. Roger Biede
WBro. Bo Buchanan
Yuma Lodge No. 17
WBro. David Sahady
Masonic Year 2021-2022
From the 2021 Grand Communication
Please direct all articles and correspondence to: Bo Buchanan 2807 E. Dahlia Dr. Phoenix Arizona 85032 rfb321@gmail.com For submissions for the next issue of Arizona Masonry or The Copper Post please contact Azgl.editor@gmail.com
Front page image: Grand Communication in Bisbee, 1897. Taken by Brother Andrew Miller, a member of White Mountain Lodge No. 3 located at Globe, Arizona.
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
2
Living IN GRACE HONOR TRUTH The Craft desperately needs a year of LIGHT to emerge from our recent years of darkness. During these years we rightfully made changes aimed specifically at the safety of our cherished members. But now we must break free from the habits of isolation and separation that we have acquired during this time, to protect the Craft itself. We are all called to be servants of the Craft...each and every one of us. We all have different abilities and talents, but that does not mean that any of us are less important to the overall recipe for success. As we emerge from our darkness we must focus on supporting a moral and upright example that we (each one of us) should be providing to society. I humbly offer you an acronym for this effort—L.I.G.H.T. Living in Grace, Honor, Truth. If we measure our actions each day by these principles we focus on making ourselves the best Mason we can be. And with the theme for this year, I am calling for all of Arizona Masonry to Let Your L.I.G.H.T. Shine! ….Randy Jager, Grandmaster of Arizona F. & A.M. ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
3
Brethren, I bring you warm greetings from central location will the Grand East. be comfortable and convenient to all the As this is my first message since the Grand Craft. Watch for Communication, I would like to thank all Arizona more details very Masons for their confidence in my ability to fulfill soon. the duties of Grand Master. The words of support Less than and Brotherly Love I received after the installation one month after the ceremony at the Grand Communication and since Grand Lodge instalthen during my visitations have been truly overlation, I was travelwhelming. Thank you, thank you, thank you. ling back from a wonderful Flagstaff Lodge #7 awards night when I During the Grand Communication, I anreceived notice that a close Fraternal Brother had nounced that it was my desire to hold the 2022 unexpectedly passed to the Celestial Lodge after a Grand Communication at the Tucson Scottish Rite rather routine operation. I could certainly do Cathedral. Unfortunately, the Tucson Scottish Rite nothing from the road home to Tucson that night, Cathedral has some pending building projects that but I had no idea how much that night would imare going to make this impossible. When this was pact the next several months for me. realized, a search of available venues in the Tucson area was completed. However, the ultimate decision was made to move the 2022 Grand Com“Do not dwell in the past, do munication to Wild Horse Pass Hotel in Chandler. not dream of the future, concentrate By the time of our communication, Wild Horse Pass will have completed a new tower which all of the mind on the present moment” our rooms will be in. I am hopeful that this more …….Buddha
I made a commitment to this Brother to watch over his widow if anything ever were to happen to him (just as we all do during our obligations). There is no question about this oath we took…it is not subject to how busy we are with our own lives…it is unconditional. I have always tried to support our various widows’ programs within various Masonic bodies, but I know now that I was not really providing the support necessary for our sisters who have lost their Masons. To make matters even more interesting, this particular widow just recently celebrated her 101st birthday! She is a truly amazing woman, and
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
4
a 70-year member (and Past Matron) of the Order of Eastern Star. This wonderful woman has not only dedicated her many years of life supporting Masonic Brothers (both her first husband and her second husband were VERY active Masons), but she has personally been involved with the Fraternal Family for most of her life!
“Arizona Masonry – Let Your L.I.G.H.T. Shine.” I also frequently remind everyone that the “L.I.G.H.T.” acronym stands for Living In Grace, Honor, Truth. I have spent time helping to define my applications of Grace, Honor, and Truth in previous articles, but there is also great meaning in the word “Living.” We all must resist the urge to take life itself for granted. Cherish each day and I had to do everything in my power to help be certain to recognize the wonderful people that this Masonic sister and fulfill my Masonic obliga- surround us. Find the good that is hidden in evetions. However, I quickly began finding it difficult ryone and everything. Be present in every moto balance all the tasks on my plate. I know that I ment and resist the urge to look at the next am no exception…we all have too many things to scheduled event before the current one is comdo these days. That is the reason why I tell this plete. story now. It reminds me every busy day I get through, that we all must only take the obligations that we intend to keep. It will most times Life is a series of thousands of not be easy at all, but it speaks to the very core of tiny miracles. Notice them. our Masonic life.
We must all resist the urge to take life itself for granted. Cherish each day and be certain to recognize the wonderful people that surround us. ………..Randy Jager, Grandmaster
I look forward to seeing you all in Lodge again very soon!
Fraternally,
Randy Jager Another important fact that a story like this should reinforce for all of us, is that only the Great Creator of the Universe knows the number of our days. Only he knows what the future holds in store for us. We must all make the most of every day…celebrating and giving thanks for all the blessings we receive.
Grandmaster 2021-2022
I have shared the Grand Lodge of Arizona theme for this year with many of you already:
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
5
This month, as part of my Junior Grand Dea- Grandfather died. By the time the grandson gradcon duties, I had the pleasure of making my first uated and returned home, he discovered that the official visitations. Williams-Grand Canyon Lodge store was in great need of repair. No 38 and Kingman Lodge No. 22 both warmly welcomed me to their Lodges as I began my journey. After my address to the Lodges, I opened it up to questions from the brethren - and an interesting question was posed; “What do I think that it will take to save a Lodge that is losing members.” Truly a relevant question in this day and age of Freemasonry and one that I pose to each and every member of a Lodge in Arizona.
I would ask first, does the lodge make itself worthwhile attending? This is easier than it would seem at first thought. When a member comes to Lodge on a random stated meeting night, is he welcomed to Lodge? Have the Master and Secretary taken the time to put together a well-organized agenda? Are members interacting with each other and checking in with each other? Does it look like the Lodge has pride in itself? Is it clean, is it well organized, does it look like the Lodge takes pride in itself?
“The best teamwork comes from men who are working independently toward one goal in unison”...James Cash Penney, founder of JCPenney Department Stores. Inside the store, the camera department , together with the tool and notions departments were a mess. Traffic into the store had all but ceased and there was little interest among the staff in growing the business. The family wanted to advertise, but the grandson was dubious. “Advertise what?” he asked. “Do we want people to come into the store and find out that we’re out of touch. We couldn’t keep them as customers for a second.” Finally, he said “If you want to make a go of this store, we’re going to have to fix it up and bring it into the 21st century. There’s tough competition out there and we aren’t ready to compete.”
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania shared this story... There was a small store called Davis Variety Store in the center of a moderate sized Pennsylvania town. It had all kinds of goods for sale and during the 1950’s it was a good business for Grandfather Davis and his family. Grandfather Davis had every intention of handing the store over to his grandson when he retired. But while the young man was in college, the ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
6
Are you ready to Compete? Or are you trying to attract members to an “old Lodge”? I would offer that as the store had departments, a Lodge also has different parts that equate to different departments; Ritual, Education, Fellowship, Charity, Involvement in the Community. All of these different components should be addressed when determining whether a Lodge is ready to attract members. All of these “Departments” work to benefit members and give value to attending Lodge.
There are many things that constitute a healthy Lodge just as each Community has its own charming characteristics that makes is special. Our ritual and history make us special, but Lodges still have to be willing to make our offerings desirable to today’s Man. We are all still striving for that perfect ashlar, is the whole Lodge doing the same?
“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together” ...James Cash Penney, founder of JC Penney Department Stores.
The Grand Lodge is working hard with DDGM’s to produce information and trainings to help lodges grow and succeed. This is in addition to the Lodges of Instruction, MasoniCon, and Leadership Trainings that we have done over the years. Please work with your DDGM’s as we move Freemasonry into the 21st Century. Also, remember that if we want our newly raised candidates to take an active part in lodge life, we need at least to give them an introduction to Masonry. Ritual alone, no matter how well done, is not going to make a knowledgeable Mason or an active lodge member. If we want a man who believes in Masonry, a man who is an active lodge member, we have to take the time to show, to teach, to guide that new Mason to a clearer understanding of the tenets of his profession as a Mason (or departments if you will. In short, we cannot just raise a candidate and then drop him.
Fraternally,
Roger C. Biede III Junior Grand Deacon 2021-2022
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
7
Grand Lodge of Arizona meeting in Aladdin's Cave in Copper Queen Creek Mine, Bisbee Arizona 1897
It is perhaps the most famous underground photo of Masonry in the world. A gathering of nearly 200 men in suits, ties, and aprons – contrasted against the backdrop of stalactites hanging from the ceiling and the perfectly dropped calcite formations in the East – with a G suspended from the ceiling. This photo, taken by flashlight, captured a moment both formal and natural, in one of the greatest Lodge Rooms ever created by the Great Architect of the Universe. The photographer of this amazing photo was none other than Brother Andrew Miller, a member of White Mountain Lodge No. 3 located at Globe, Arizona. One of the reasons this photo has spread so far and wide is that a copy of it is stored in the Library of Congress – and now is available on the web for everyone to see. https://www.loc.gov/resource/cph.3c24538/ While this photo might be the most famous, it is certainly not the first use of a Cave in Freemasonry. Caves have a special place in our history, they are a part of our allegorical stories. Legend has it that Zedekiah’s Cave in Israel was the place where King Solomon quarried the limestone for the first temple – …... ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
8
- so the cave is often referred to as “Solomons Cave”. This fact alone has created a connection between caves, Freemasonry, and our ritual. Solomons Cave had been forgotten for many years until it was rediscovered in the mid 1800’s. In 1868, a Masonic ceremony was held in the cave led by a past Grand Master of Kentucky. In 1873- the first Masonic Lodge in Israel (Royal Solomon Mother Lodge No. 293) met in the cave on May 7th. Perhaps those events in Israel helped stir interest in cave degrees here at home. When the Grand Lodge of Arizona met in the Copper Queen Mine in Bisbee, it was front page news. The headline on the right appeared on the cover of the Arizona Republican Sunday Morning, November 14th 1897. At the time, Mining was big business in Arizona and holding Grand Lodge in a Cave connected to Masons not just on a level of curiosity, but it was a connection to the economic engine that drove our state at that time. When you close your eyes, you can almost see that old west mining town of Bisbee buzzing with Freemasons; men arriving on horses and in carriages; supplies being carried about to prepare for the 3 day event; social gatherings I the pubs at night as brothers celebrated in fellowship; the townsfolk eagerly receiving the visitors and excited about all the commerce coming to town. There is some confusion about our own history here. Many people think there was 1 event in a cave where a degree was performed. In actuality, there were 2 underground events in our history; The Grand communication in a cave at the Copper Queen Creek Mine in Bisbee in 1897 and a third
degree along with the Grand Communication in the stope of the Lone Star Mine under the town of Morenci in 1907. The 1897 Grand Communication occurred from November 9th to November 11th. On that first day, November 9th, the Grand Communication began like normal in the Masonic Hall in Bisbee at 10am. Grand Master William Francis Nichols Presided over a day of typical affairs such as communications from subordinate lodges, the Grand Secretary’s report, and the financial report. But on the second day, at 2:00pm, a very special procession began to the Copper Queen Creek Mine (pg. 35, 1897 Grand Lodge proceedings): “Clothed in white gloves and aprons, the two hundred men in line made an imposing appearance...
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
9
as they marched from the lodge to the hoisting works from which they were to descend into the mines and cave…..they were scientifically stood on the cage a half dozen at a time, when down they went about two hundred feet in a second….then began the long march in single file through the winding, angling tunnel, which was illuminated the entire distance by candles set about ten feet apart” After marching down the long tunnel, the walls would open up and give the brothers a view of the lodge room in Aladdin’s cave that was unlike any other: “Stalactites from the size of a drop of water to that of the giant tusks of some antediluvian monster hung suspended from the roof, and beneath the white glare of the electric light they danced and shimmered like icicles in the sun. Singly and in cluster, some in blue and some in white, of all lengths and shapes, these stalactites cover the roof, while among them in labyrinthine irregularity glitters the crystal ooze. “ As usual, the room was adorned with furniture in the East, West and South – including a letter G suspended in the East. One rumor that has persisted is that there were two different G’s used in the degree. The Proceedings describe the scene
as follows: “The Cave, which is probably one hundred and fifty by two hundred and fifty feet in dimensions, and an extreme height of about one hundred feet from the lowest to the highest point, was lighted by electricity. Eighteen thousand feet of wire have been used for the purpose, and one hundred and thirty five lamps were used, some of them one hundred candle power. In the cast hung a brilliant letter G, three feet in height, and studded by thirty five electric lights of sixteen-candle power, a thing of beauty and joy in itself. In the vast space overhead, the lights formed a great square and compass, the distance between the points of the extended compass being one hundred feet and the length of each leg being on hundred and thirty feet.” Perhaps the origin of the “Two G’s” rumor lies in the fact there were two photos taken of Aladdin’s cave that day. Looking closely at the photo of the empty room, one can easily see the individual bulbs enough to count 31 (not 35 as previously described). But when looking at the photo of the brothers gathered in the cave, the G looks clean and flat with no bulbs to be seen. The most likely cause of this difference is the tendency of …..
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
10
..newspapers at the time to color photos in to make them more easily viewable in the black and white newspapers of the day. The bulbs were likely painted over with white in the phone in order for the G to stand out, and only one G has actually ever existed. Another common misconception about Underground Masonry in Arizona is that there was just one underground event, and it was in a Cave in Arizona where they conferred a degree. In actu-
ality, the first underground meeting in Arizona was the Installation of Officers for the coming year in 1897 – which was held in a natural cave called “Aladdin’s Cave” in the Copper Queen Creek Mine in Bisbee, Arizona. The second underground event occurred in the Stope of the Lone Star Mine under the town of Morenci, Arizona. A cave being distinguished as a natural formation created by the almighty, whereas a “Stope” is a manmade opening that has been cleared out in the pursuit of ore.
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
11
The Grand Communication in Morenci occurred from November 19th to the 21st. This time, Grand Lodge was convened Underground on day one in the “Stope” of the Lone Star Mine. On the morning of November 19th, 1907, at 10:00am, the Grand Lodge commenced its business in the presence of eighteen chartered lodges. But prior to the opening of Grand lodge, a third degree was conferred in the Stope of the mine. Not much is known about the degree, who the candidate was or who performed the various parts. It also appears that the entire Grand Communication was held in the mine, but nothing specifically is notated in the proceed-
ings until the third and final day, at the conclusion of grand Lodge in Morenci, a resolution was presented by P∴G∴M∴ Bro. Rickmer N. Fredericks (here partially reprinted):
“Be it resolved: That the thanks of this grand Lodge be and hereby are extended to the members of Corinthian Lodge, to the Detroit Copper Mining Company, its General Manager, Mr. C.E. Mills, and to the public spirited citizens of this great and more than interesting Copper City of Morenci, for the untiring energy and zeal manifested in making this session of Grand Lodge a memorable one, which has imprinted upon us all…..
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
12
...pleasant memories which will long be cherished after returning to our respective homes…..” When you hear the term “Underground Masonry” today, you might think of “Clandestine Masonry” or illegally practiced masonry. But over one hundred years ago, it was simply a way to connect with our history and our ritual. It was also a way to excite the brotherhood and connect with the communities where we held our lodges. Looking back today, it seems like a stunt that would be a draw
November 14th, 1897, Arizona Republican
for all masons. But at the time, Mining was big business in Arizona and holding Grand Lodge in a mine not only connected to Masons on a level of curiosity, but it was a connection to the economic engine that drove our state. Just months before the 1897 Grand Communication in Bisbee, the Klondike Gold Rush had begun. These underground masonic events were held in these informal spaces of mines and caves but were met with the utmost formality of the fraternity. They were events celebrated and supported by an entire town. The mining history of Arizona lends itself well to these types of events and we
should cherish and celebrate their memories. Perhaps the time has come to celebrate our fraternity and recreate one of these events. In closing, I will leave you with the words of Governor Myron H. McCord spoken at the Grand Banquet in the Bisbee Opera House on the last night of the 1897 Communication(as published in the Arizona Republican Sunday Morning, November 14th, 1897): “What is Masonry? Answers may differ, but I give you an answer to be considered and, I hope, never forgotten: Free Masonry is not a lodge, nor a promise, nor a greed, nor a grip, nor a secret; Free Masonry is the science of human life. Life is the most sacred thing entrusted to the care and keeping of man, and to the thoughtful man all life, vegetable life and animal life in the higher degree, is sacred. How to perfect that life and make the most out of it is the object, the study of Freemasonry…..What are the essential qualifications of Masonry? I answer: First, an essential qualification and requirement of a Mason is intelligence. Said Thomas Jefferson: ‘If you are not a thinking man, to what purpose are you a man at all?’ The foundation of the misery, discontent and crime of the world is ignorance. In the science of human life is found a curse, and the chief study of mankind is man, not how to make money, but how to make men. Masonry may have begun in building a temple for Solomon, but its work is now in building Solomons for the Temple….The Masonic lodge is indeed a universality in which the whole science of human life is properly taught. It is a school for every nation and people under the sun.”
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
13
A listing of all Masons present at the Copper Queen Cave Grand Communication in Bisbee, 1897.
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
14
Lodge of Instruction YUMA LODGE #17 November 6th 9:00am
The Grandmasters coin is for sale at $20.00. All proceeds go to Masonic Youth groups. See your DDGM, DDGL or Grand Lodge officers to purchase. ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
15
A Journey to Israel Greetings Brothers, and thank you for joining us on this travelogue. The purpose of this series is to share the travel experiences of Brothers and the impact of such travels on their journey in Masonry. Our first stop on this journey is Israel, where in 2014 WB Ted Gambogi of Aztlan Lodge #1 visited with his wife and friends. WB Ted was Raised in 2014, with this trip occurring mere months after receiving his Third Degree. He served Aztlan Lodge as Worshipful Master in 2019. WB Ted has had the opportunity to travel all over the world for work, from the jungles of Borneo, to the blizzard Brother Ted Gambogi & his wife Tik with the Sea of Galilee filled hill tops of Kansas, meeting new people and new in the background. 2014. places was a regular experience for Ted. This trip would be no different, though where it started may not be as to Masada was next, hiking to the top to witness the common. location of the last battle of resistance against the Roman conquerors. The hike was not easy, “I was beat by It began, as all good pilgrimages do, thousands of the time we got to the top” Ted reflected, but after the miles from the destination. In this case, 2072 miles. hike up a trip to the Dead Sea provided an opportunity In 2004, while visiting Paris, WB Ted received a privateto relax and float. Visiting the River Jordan and Sea of ly guided tour at the Louvre. Prior to this trip, and after, Galilee, Ted’s travels culminated in a baptism in the Ted enjoyed reading and much of his introduction to waters of the River Jordan. Reflecting on the whole of Masonry came from such books as written by Dan the trip, WB Ted shared that as he traveled throughout Brown, and even Holy Blood Holy Grail. However, he the Holy Land “you become aware of the passing of was not prepared for what he would learn this day, and time and impact of history.” the lesson learned would drive home the importance of seeking further Light. The tour began when presented The history of Freemasonry in Israel is filled, as many with an ancient statue and a question from the tour areas wherein European powers were present in the guide “what do you see there?”. Ted answered confi18th and 19th centuries, with European influence. The dently “That’s the Blessed Virgin and the Christ Child”, first Grand Lodge was formed in 1933, bringing togethto which the guide prompted “look closer”. As he took er the many Lodges of French and Egyptian influence a closer look, Ted observed it was a 3000 plus year old under a single governing body. It would take another 20 image of Isis and Horus. The remainder of the tour only years for the English Lodges to join, but it was achieved furthered his curiosity. in 1953 with MWB Shabetay Levy, the Mayor of Haifa at the time, installed as the first Grand Master of the A decade later, while engaged with a Krav Maga Grand Lodge of the State of Israel of Ancient Free and training group, he took a trip to Israel finally achieving a Accepted Masons. Though the first Masonic ceremony lifelong interest. Ted commented “I hadn’t been able was performed in Solomon’s Quarries, the Craft in Israto visit Israel in the past and figured this was my last el has grown to over 1,000 members and over 70 Lodgchance”. Armed with his letters of introduction provides, allowing Christian, Jewish, and Muslim Brothers to ed by the Lodge Secretary, he endeavored to visit a sit and work together towards Brotherly Love and supLodge in Jerusalem. Prior to this trip, his only experiport. Today, 9 languages may be experienced in a Lodge ence in a Lodge was Aztlan. Israel was to prove an eye in Israel; including: Hebrew, Arabic, English, French,... opener. After visiting the Temple Mount, a visit ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
16
in full tuxedo and white glove dress, the traditionalism was evident in the Lodge and in his discussion with the sitting WM.
A view of “Masada”, an ancient fortress in southern Israel’s Judean desert with the Dead Sea in the background.
German, Spanish, Romanian, Turkish, and Russian. Though young in term of years, Freemasonry in Israel is alive and well. While in Jerusalem, WB Ted made contact with WM Asher Samuels of Holy City Lodge No. 4. While visiting the Lodge, WB Ted reflected that at first glance, one wouldn’t recognize the Lodge building as housing a Lodge room. The location was through a series of buildings, side entrances, and semi-hidden. However, once admitted into the Lodge room, the history and traditionalism of the location shined forth. The floor of the Lodge room was tiled black and white, dark wood chairs and paneling, with plenty of seating for all attendees. While unable to attend a Stated Meeting, WB Ted was greeted by the WM of the Lodge and given a private tour, wherein he learned this particular Lodge is a Hebrew speaking Lodge. While touring the Lodge room and building, WB Ted was further informed that this Lodge was not the only Lodge active at that site, but rather 3 additional Lodges (1 English, 1 German, and 1 Jewish) met in the same building. After the tour, he and the Master went out for a meal and during this meal, conversation continued about Freemasonry and WB Ted learned that while they may only have around 80 members on the Lodge rolls, nearly 50-55 show for every meeting. Wow! Can you imagine what 60% attendance at meetings would mean to your Lodge? “Any Lodge would like that return rate and participation” Ted shared, nothing that “they’re obviously doing something different” to have such participation in their Lodge. Each member arrives
Inquiring what else stood out in the building or Lodge room to WB Ted, he noted the age of the room and building. “The Lodge room looked like one you would see in London or elsewhere in Europe, it just seemed old” Ted commented (relative to the décor and arrangement of the Lodge room). While clearly the Lodge room and building were well maintained, it was evident the care and dedication each member and officer of the Lodge has to ensuring Masonry in Israel continues. Such noted attendance at and dress for meetings, as well as more stories from the WM, gave
Lodge room at Holy City Lodge No. 4 in Israel.
the impression that these Brothers take their engagements with Freemasonry quite seriously. The significance of this trip for WB Ted centered on his ability to achieve a lifelong dream, having previously been unable to visit Israel for either work or pleasure. Early in Ted’s career he worked in many Muslim countries, who unfortunately did not recognize Israel, and so he would not have been able to gain admission with a Israel passport stamp into the country with which he was working. This trip allowed him the opportunity to finally visit Israel. “When you get there and see everything, walking the Stations of the Cross, the Temple Mount, the River Jordan, Sea of Galilee, Masada, it….
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
17
...was more than just visiting Israel or visiting a Lodge, it was a visit to an integrated theme that tied together Christianity, Masonry, and the Knights Templar.” To be able to visit where Templarism began in Israel and, if one adheres to the idea of the Templars founding Masonry, where Masonry began, was a life changing opportunity that has continued to impact his view of Masonry to this day. While not the original intent of the trip, with the beginnings of the story lying with the Louvre tour, and culminating in a baptism in the River Jordan, this trip was a modern day pilgrimage that led to a greater understanding, not just of Masonry, but of himself. In an era where we live and die by soundbites, having this opportunity to dive deeper and experience a “walk back in history” was truly impactful. What struck WB Ted the most was the community of Brothers that existed, how they embraced traditionalism, and demonstrated care for one another. It was evident, during his visit, that the Brothers in Israel actively seek to adhere to the Ancient Landmarks and practices of Freemasonry. When we listen we hear more, and in listening to the WM of the Lodge in Jerusalem and allowing him to just speak and share, WB Ted got the feeling that the Lodge is maintaining the heart and soul of ancient Masonry. Culminating in the experience of Brotherhood achieved through visitation to another Lodge. I would like to thank WB Ted for allowing this interview to take place and the sharing of his trip and experience with us all.
WM Asher Samuels, Holy City Lodge No. 4 in Israel.
Fraternally,
David Sahady Junior Grand Steward 2021-2022
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
18
Worshipful Grand Master Randal Jager (52) Deputy Grand Master Jim Baker (9) Senior Grand Warden George R. Rusk (20)
Junior Grand Warden Michael A. Dale (17)
Senior Grand Deacon Leigh J. Creighton (4)
Junior Grand Deacon Roger C. Biede III (9)
Senior Grand Steward Eric D. Dupree (86)
Junior Grand Steward David A. Sahady (1)
Grand Secretary George S. Mather (85)
Grand Treasurer Michael N. McGee (50)
Deputy Grand Secretary James R. Leppert (85)
Deputy Grand Treasurer Ronald W. Richards (41,32,89)
Deputy Grand Secretary James W. Rowan (43)
Grand Secretary Emeritus George H. Stabelin Sr. (15)
Grand Secretary Emeritus Wilbur E. Robertson (20)
Grand Lecturer John W. Welsch (7, 14)
Grand Chaplain Perry E. Casazza (50)
Grand Orator W. Melton (23)
Grand Marshall Patrick S. Zech (56, 86)
Grand Editor Robert(Bo) F. Buchanan III (2)
Grand Bible Bearer Charles A. Kennedy (66)
Grand Pursuivant Donald E. Lowery (49)
Grand Standard Bearer James A. Boles (60)
Grand Organist Gordon Stevenson (20)
Grand Tyler James T. Atha (6, 13)
Grand Counsel Ricard L. Brooks (85)
Grand Photographer G. Allen Nichols (43,85) ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
19
2019 Carry Over No.
Pass/Fail
2019-04 2019-05 2019-14
Failed Failed Failed
Ritual Clarification – insert comma after “To Learn” Degree Conferral – Confer/Exemplify all 3 degrees once a year Changes to the Spanish Ritual
2020 Legislation 2020 Pandemic Carryover 2020-01
Carry Over – Stat. Section 10-403 - Allow lodge to spend is excess of $20 Thousand w/out Trustee approval
2020-02
Pass – Stat. Section 11-201 (h) Grand Master review all documentation pertaining to consolidation of lodges, and notify lodges of his decision
2020-03
Pass – Stat. Section 11-203.1 – Consolidating lodges must issue their own dues cards pending approval of consolidation, and dues cards are valid until the end of the calendar year
2020-04
Fail – Const. Article 6-1 - Office of Master, Treasurer, of Secretary be held in only one lodge during the year
2020-05
Pass – Stat. Section 14-301 - Provide copy of GL Trustees by Laws upon request.
2020-06
Pass – Const. Article 6-2.2.3 Business – remove “or balloting for Trial Commissioners
2020-07
Fail – Stat. Section 10-403 – Allow lodge to exceed $20 Thousand “or 10% of liquid assets of the lodge, whichever is greater for construction or repairs
2020-08
Carry Over – Stat. Section 18-205 – Amend Trial Commissioner Selection – Add (d) When more than one lodge meets at the same address, they will be considered as one geographical location . All trial commissioners will be draws from the next four closest lodges …etc.
2020-09
Carry Over – Stat. Section 18-221.3 – Retrial Commissioner Selection (4) - No trial commissioner “who served” on the original trial shall serve as a commissioner for the retrial, etc.
2020-10
Carry Over – Stat. Section 2-205 – Authorized Aprons and Jewels – “No Masonic apron or jewel except those issued or authorized by this or another organized Grand Lodge shall be worn in a tyled Lodge. Concordant or Appendant Body aprons or jewels may only be worn by dispensation from the Grand Master which shall be for a specific meeting.
2020-11
Pass – Const. Article 3-1.1.1 Add “Jurisprudence, the Committee on” for clarification and 10-1.4.4 add “and the General Policy Committee” for clarification.
2020-12
Pass (as amended) – Stat. Section 13-102 – (b) A Worshipful Master may, if requested, install his successor in office, he being a Past Master thereof by virtue of his having been elected and installed (c) The Grand Lodge of Arizona does not recognize the degree of Virtual Past Master
2020-13
Withdrawn - Spanish Ritual
2020-14
Pass – Section 18-201 and 202 – Renumber sections and add to 18-202 the last sentence “The prudent Master should place in the trial file a memorialization of the factual basis for his decision to refuse to entertain the charge(s)”.
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
20
2020 Legislation 2020 Pandemic Carryover (continued) 2020-15
Pass – Stat. Section 18-221, Section 18-222.1, Section 18-222.2 Trial Commissioners – Section 14-204, Masonic Trial Forms – Add Page one of the Constitution and Statutes to clarify what composes the ARIZONA MASONIC CODE (AMC)
2020-16
Pass – Stat. Section 10-204 – Lodge D & O Insurance – Reorganize the section to clarify, and emphasize the requirements of this Section
2020-17
Pass – Const. Article 6-2.3.2 – Adding the words “and Reimbursements” stating “No chartered Lodge which shall have failed to make and transmit ins annual returns, with payment of its contributions, including its financial report to the Grand Secretary, as provided in this Article, and reimburse Grand Lodge for any outstanding obligations, shall be entitled to representation at the next Annual Communication , except by unanimous vote of the brethren.
2020-18
Pass – Stat. Section 18-222.1 (b) – Penalty for Failure to Reply to a Summons – Failure to appear without a valid excuse shall be expulsion.
2020-19
Pass – Deletions from the Table of Contents
2020-20
Pass – Const. Article 2-4 – Grand Master Elect will announce the appointed officer at the conclusion of the election of officers.
2021 Legislation No.
Pass/Fail
2021-01
Pass – Const. Article 6-2.2.1 – Grants Grand Master to grant relief from 10 stated meetings a year in case of an emergency
2021-02
Withdrawn – Const. Article 6-1 – Conflicts with another section
2021-03
Carry Over – Const. Article 6-3, Seals, By-Laws and reports – Clarifies how bylaws should be changed in the lodges and the difference between a regular of stated meeting.
2021-04
Pass – Stat. Section 9-101 – Delete the reference to “Contributing Member”
2021-05
Withdrawn – Background Checking Service
2021-06
Carry Over – Const. Article 3-1.5.3 (f) – Grand Secretary Duties – That the Grand Secretary serve as an ex-officio member on the Board of Directors for the Roskruge/Casey Library
2021-07
Pass – Minor Statute corrections/housekeeping
2021-08
Pass – Stat. Section 5-205 – Reorganization – Collective Ballot – Add “In a collective ballot, a petition for the degrees and an application for affiliation are treated the same. There is no requirement that a separate ballot be taken for petitions and applications.
2021-09
Pass – Stat. Section 2-101 (d) – Remove the “coded” when referring to the Ritual as it is now referred to as the Clear Text Ritual
2021-10
Pass – Correct conflict between Constitution, Article 6-2.2.3 and Statute Section 5-207 - Related to re-balloting on a rejected petition and deleting paragraph (d) and re-identifying Paragraph (e) to Paragraph (d)
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
21
2021 Legislation (continued) 2021-11
Pass – Stat. Section 1-201 – To clarify separation between the Grand Lodge of Arizona and other Grand Lodge within Arizona i.e. Prince Hall.
2021-12
Pass – Stat. Section 9-106 – Re-organize the statute related to Regulation 19, Release from Obligation to pay dues
2021-13
Pass – Const. Article 2-3 – Quorum in Communication – change “The Officers or Representatives” to read “The Master or a Warden, or the elected Representative”.
2021-14
Pass – Const. Article 7-1.1.1 – Contribution Based on Master Mason Membership (Per Capita) Remove “or as a contributing member
I SEE YOU’VE TRAVELLED SOME Wherever you may chance to be, Wherever you may roam Far away in foreign lands, Or just at Home Sweet Home It always gives you pleasure, It makes your heart strings hum Just to hear the words of cheer, “I see you’ve traveled some.” When you get a brother’s greeting, and he takes you by the hand It thrills you with a feeling that you can understand, You feel that bond of brotherhood, that tie that’s sure to come When you hear him say in a friendly way, “I see you’ve travelled some”
And if you are a stranger, In strange lands all alone If fate has left you stranded, dead broke and far from home It thrills you—makes you numb, When he says with a grip of fellowship, “I see you’ve travelled some” And when your final summons comes, To take a last long trip Adorned with Lambskins Apron White, and gems of fellowship The tiler at the Golden Gate, With square and rule and plumb Will size up your pin and say “Walk in, I see you’ve traveled some.”
ARIZONA MASONRY—A GRAND LODGE OF ARIZONA F&AM PUBLICATION Q3 2021
22