Volume 56 No. 2
Spring 2011
Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri A.F. & A.M.
I thank everyone who hosted and attended the 16 Grand Lodge Area Meetings held around the state this past October and November, as this gave the Brethren of our Fraternity the opportunity to meet their Grand Lodge Officers, and for these Officers personally to greet and interact with those we represent in our Fraternity. It was a privilege and an honor to promote at these Area Meetings the theme, “Sharing Our Masonic Resources” to improve “Connectivity” within our Fraternity. We easily forget that our Grand Lodge has valuable tools (resources) available to help us in our journey. Your Grand Lodge Officers are excited and committed to bring attention to these resources, and look forward for additional opportunities to emphasize them further. The number of Area Meetings were doubled this year to give us the chance to take our message to more Lodges. While the largest attendance was still found in the more populated areas of Kansas City, Webster Groves, St Joseph, and Springfield, we also found impressive receptions in Clinton, Palymra, Troy, Poplar Bluff, Jackson, St Clair, Richmond, Branson, Columbia, Kirksville, Brookfield, and Dexter. It will be a highlight of my year as Grand Master to have shared a few hours with the Brethren at each of these Lodges. The high attendance was 154, the low was 30, and the average was 70. There were 8 DDGMs who had every Lodge in their district represented: Darby MeeCommittee on Masonic Publications Gail S. Turner, Grand Master David L. Ramsey, Senior Grand Warden Ronald D. Miller, Grand Secretary Zelwin B. Eaton, Past Editor E. Otha Wingo, Assistant Editor Steven L. Harrison, Editor, Chairman Editor Steven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120 • Kearney, MO 64060-1120 816-558-0436 / Call for Fax editor@momason.org
Submit articles to:
editor@momason.org The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is the official publication of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and is published four times yearly. Articles to be considered for publication should be e-mailed to editor@momason.org, not later than the first day of
30 Spring 2011
han, George Teeter, Porter Hensen, Jack DeSelms, Dan Sewing, Thomas Hemlett, Bill Humble, and Mickey Brown. RWB Thomas Hemlett of District No. 26 had the highest average of Lodge officers in attendance. RWB Dan Sewing of District No. 18 was the runner-up. Region E had the largest number in attendance. Regions C and F were tied for second and were closely followed by Region B for third. There were 37 DDGMs in attendance, 32 DDGLs, 6 of the 7 Regional Grand Lecturers, and 9 Past Grand Masters. Total Registrants, not counting Grand Lodge Officers, were 915. Many of our Grand Lodge Officers expressed how encouraging it was to see this level of participation and are already formulating concepts on how to improve Grand Lodge connectivity to our constituent Lodges. I look forward to future opportunities to continue strengthening the role and presence of our District Deputy Grand Masters in their districts and to make the resources of Grand Lodge more available to our Lodges. It is an exciting time to be a Missouri Master Mason. Happy New Year to all. Fraternally,
Gail S. Turner Grand Master
the month preceding publication in February, May, August, and November. Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Grand Lodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject, subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication. Pictures submitted for publication will not be returned. The Missouri Freemason does not accept forms or clippings for publication. Please do not submit materials in PDF format. office of publicationS: Grand Lodge of Missouri, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535. Printed by Tribune Publishing Co., Columbia, Missouri. Periodicals Postage paid at Columbia, Missouri. postmaster: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535. subscriptions: The Missouri Freemason is mailed to every member of this Masonic Jurisdiction
without charge. Domestic subscriptions elsewhere are $12.00 annually. permission to reprint: All recognized Masonic publications have permission to reprint original articles from The Missouri Freemason with credit to the author and the publication. change of address (Important): Whenever a member changes his mailing address without notifying his Lodge Secretary and a mailing of the Freemason magazine occurs, the Post Office charges the Grand Lodge 75¢ per undeliverable Freemason. please, contact your Lodge Secretary with your address change so that the Grand Lodge can then be notified. GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI grand lodge of missouri internet addresses E-Mail to the Grand Lodge Office grlodge@momason.org The Grand Lodge web page www.momason.orgPhone: 573-474-8561
the missouri freemason
the missouri freemason
©
vol. 56 no. 2
Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri SPRING 2011 Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications
contents 32 2011 Grand Line Officers 35 Grand Secretary's Area Meetings 35 Daniel's Gloves; A representation of Masonic Charity 37 Vetus Indagator "The Old Seeker" 38 Cass Lodge Assists Local Charities With Hackers‑n‑Hogs 39 Honor Flight Helps Vets Visit Memorials In Tribute To Their Service 39 Shell Knob Masons and Shell Knob Elementary School announce new partnership 40 Recovering The Lost Symbols of Saint Louis 40 Freemasonry At Its Best 41 Barney Douglas Receives 2010 Truman Award 41 Lodge finds unique way to raise funds 41 Most Worshipful Brother Walter L. Walker 42 Wallace Lodge Dedicates New Building 43 Missouri DeMolay 44 Missouri Rainbow Girls 45 Missouri Job's Daughters 46 Masonic Home of Missouri 50 Work Of Our Craft 54 Masonic Service Awards
From The Editor’s Keyboard
Did you know … … The Missouri state flag was designed by Marie Oliver, mother of Allen L. Oliver, Past Master of the Missouri Lodge of Research. … Born 1/8/1681, Jonathan Belcher became a Mason in London in 1704 and is the first known native born Freemason in the US. … On October 31, 1922, 9,000 Companions and 1,100 candidates gathered in Kansas City, Missouri to conduct PM and MEM degrees. … In today's dollars, the initiation fee for Louisiana Lodge #109, first Lodge in Missouri, was approximately $240. … In an era before personalized license plates, Maryland Masons had exclusive use of plates with a "515" prefix. … Mohawk leader and Freemason Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea) once saved a man giving the grand hailing sign of distress from being burned at the stake. … In 1877 the Grand Lodge of California reported having a "Grand Clam Baker," Brother George T. Bromley. … Washington Chapter 3 RAM, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, once used a town crier, paid up to 25¢, to announce its meetings. … On August 23, 1879, Lodge #239 of France conducted a First Degree initiation in a hot air balloon flying over Paris. … As well as being the founder of DeMolay, Frank S. Land was also an accomplished artist. … Returning from the Holy Land in 1868, Brother Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) presented a gavel, made from a cedar tree near Jerusalem, to Polar Star Lodge. … In 1830, Brother James Pain, while overseeing the rebuilding of Baal's Bridge in Limerick, Ireland, discovered a brass square dated 1507, and bearing the inscription, "I will strive to live with love & care upon the level by the square." … Although the US declared independence July 4, 1776, it was not until January 14, 1783 that Great Britain officially recognized the independence of the United States. … In 1818, Brother Hector Kilbourne, first Master of Science Lodge #50 (Ohio) was the surveyor who made the original plan for Sandusky, Ohio. Brother Kilbourne designed the city in the shape of a square and compasses laid out on an open Bible. … Missouri's first senator, Brother Thomas Hart Benton (1782 - 1858), maintained a strong Unionist stance in a predominantly pro-slavery, pro-South state. Because of this unpopular view, he ultimately lost the senate seat he had held for thirty years. For this unyielding and courageous stance, John F. Kennedy selected Benton as one of only eight men worthy of inclusion in his heralded book, Profiles in Courage. Betcha didn't know at least some of those. Thing is, this is the kind of thing you read every day on the Missouri Lodge of Research Facebook and Twitter sites. You can also get questions about Masonry answered there and connect with like-minded Brothers interested in the fraternity. If you haven't already, check the Twitter site out at http://twitter.com/Lodgeofresearch, and on Facebook, look for http://www.facebook.com/MissouriLodgeofResearch. Give it a shot. This could be just the excuse you've been looking for to see what all the Twitter and Facebook shouting is about. If you're still unsure how to go about it, give me a call or send an email and I'll be happy to help. Steve Harrison, Editor
the missouri freemason Spring 2011 31
Your 2011 Grand Line Officers Gail S. Turner Grand Master Most Worshipful Brother Gail S. Turner graduated from Linn County R-1 Public Schools in 1970. He continued his education receiving an Associate of Arts degree from Hannibal LaGrange College in 1972, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Missouri in 1974, and a Masters of Education in the area of Secondary Education in 1976 from the same institution. His service to the community includes membership with
the North Central YMCA of Brookfield, Brookfield First Christian Church, Pershing Memorial Hospital Board, the City of Brookfield Board of Adjustment and the Brookfield Rotary Club. MWB Turner was raised in Jackson Lodge #82 of Linneus in 1978, where he has served as Master and Secretary, and has a dual membership with Brookfield #86. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of Kansas City, York Rite Chapter #3, Council #50, and Commandery No. 6 KT all of Liberty, Ararat Shrine, Royal Order of Scotland, Red Cross of Constantine St. Joseph Conclave, Charlemagne Council #79 Knight Masons, National Sojourners #63 Kansas City, Missouri and Old Glory Camp, Heroes of 76.
John William Hess Deputy Grand Master John William Hess was born in Albia, Iowa, where he graduated from Albia Community High School. After high school John attended the University of Iowa and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Creighton University in 1975. The State of Missouri Family Support Division currently employs him as a Child Support Specialist. He married Ina Winfrey in August, 2003. He has been active with and received honors from the Boy Scouts of America. RWB John holds an endowed membership in Buckner Lodge #501 where he was raised in 1994. He served as Master of the Lodge in 1996 - 1997 and is also a Past Master of Kansas City Lodge #220. His many Masonic affiliations include: Liberty Chapter #3, Liberty Council #50, Liberty Commandery #6, Order of High Priesthood, Past Commander's Association in Missouri, St. Joseph Valley of the Scottish Rite (KCCH), Al-
lied Masonic Degrees, and Charlemagne Chapter of the Knight Masons. John is also the recipient of the Knight York Cross of Honor (KYCH). John served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri from 1999 – 2003, and is again on the board serving as president. John is a Past President of the Masonic Children's Foundation and has been involved in the creation of the MoCHIP, Missouri Child Identification effort. He is also the current President of the National Masonichip Foundation.
David L. Ramsey Senior Grand Warden Right Worshipful Brother avid L. Ramsey is a graduate of D Central High School in St. Joseph, Missouri. He earned a 4-year Apprenticeship, Journeyman Electrician Certificate from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Missouri Western State College. He is General Manager, Tri County Electric Cooperative, Lancaster, Missouri. He was raised in March, 1991, in Savannah Lodge #71 where he served as Worshipful Master 32 Spring 2011
in 1999-2000. He has held many Grand Lodge offices and served on the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri from 2000 - 2004. RWB Ramsey is a member of First Christian Church in Savannah. He also works with other civic organizations including the Regional Homeland Security Oversight Committee and the Highway 63 Tax Commission. RWB Ramsey and his wife Christin (Friday) were married in 1974 in St. Joseph. They have two children, Carra Roth married to Randy Roth, and Timothy Ramsey and two grandchildren, Jack and Vivian Roth. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Joseph, (KCCH), York Rite, Missouri Lodge of Research, Moila Shrine Temple, High Twelve Club in St. Joseph and the National Sojourners Chapter #63 in Kansas City. the missouri freemason
Jon Blake Broyles Junior Grand Warden Jon Blake Broyles grew up in Kirksville, Missouri where he attended school, graduating from Kirksville RIII High School in 1978. He graduated from Northeast Missouri State University (Truman State University) in 1982 with a B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science. He is a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kirksville. He has served the church as a Deacon and parent in the LOGOS youth program. He is now a resident of Ballwin, Missouri. He works in the information technology field, specializing in IT management and networking. RWB Broyles married Anna Spalding of Kirksville in 1981. They have three children, Maria, Alexa, and Sara. RWB Broyles was raised in Adair Lodge #366 in 1990. He moved to St. Louis in 1995 and became a dual member of Rose Hill Lodge #550 (now Polar Star-Rose Hill #79), where he served
as Worshipful Master in 19961997. He created the first Grand Lodge Internet Web Site and served as its Webmaster from its inception in 1996 to 1999. He is a Past Master of the Missouri Lodge of Research. His many Masonic affiliations include: Caldwell Chapter #53, Kirksville Council #44, Ely Commandery #22, Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis (KCCH), Moila Shrine, Moolah Shrine and Rose Hill Chapter #120, Order of the Eastern Star. RWB Broyles is also active with Job's Daughters and DeMolay.
David William Haywood Senior Grand Deacon David William Haywood was raised in Webster Groves, Missouri where he attended school, graduating in 1969. He was a Boy Scout, and obtained his Eagle Scout award in 1965. He married Diane Walleman in 1974. He attended Meramec Community College and the University of Missouri at St. Louis, earning a BA in Biology and a BS in Chemistry. He currently works as a microbiologist for Sensient Colors, Inc. David and Diane live in Fenton, Missouri and have one daughter, Alicia. Dave
attends Southminster Presbyterian Church where he is currently Elder Trustee. He was a DeMolay at Rabboni Chapter and served as Master Councilor in 1968. He has received the Chevalier and Legion of Honor awards and has been Dean of the St. Louis Preceptory. David was raised in Webster Groves Lodge #84 in 1974 and served as Worshipful Master in 1986. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis (33°), Moolah Shrine, Rabboni Chapter #131 Royal Arch, Jeremiah Council #43, Ascalon Commandery #16, Ray Von Denslow Council #102 of the Allied Masonic Degrees, St. Louis Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine, the Bruce Harmon Hunt York Rite College #162 and as Junior Grand Deacon is the current president of the Masonic Children’s Foundation (MoCHIP).
Charles Brent Stewart Junior Grand Deacon RWB Brent Stewart was born in 1960 in Columbia, Missouri and graduated from the UMC School of Law in 1987. He was the Staff Director of the Missouri Public Service Commission, in private law practice for sixteen years, and currently is counsel for the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. He married his wife Kris in 1981 at the Newman Center. He was raised in 1985 in Twilight Lodge #114, serving as Master in 1998-99, and holds dual membership in Acacia Lodge #602 and Fayette-Howard Lodge #4. He is President of the Masonic Children’s Foundation and a member of the Missouri Lodge of Research. He joined the York Rite in 1988 and is a member of Jurisprudence Committees of the Grand York Rite Bodies. He was the SGIG Personal Rep. in the Columbia Valley Scottish Rite, received the 33°
in 2003, and is now a member in Fort Scott, Kansas. He is Past Governor of York Rite College #188, Past Sovereign Master of AMD Council #392, and a member of the Knight Masons, Royal Order of Scotland, MSRICF, St. Thomas of Acon, Order of High Priesthood, Past Commander's Association, SRRS, Shrine, and Grotto. He also is a P.E.R. and Trustee of the Elks and has served on the Board of Directors of several charitable organizations.
the missouri freemason Spring 2011 33
Richard L. Smith Senior Grand Steward Right Worshipful Brother Richard L. Smith grew up St. Louis and received his BS Degree from Washington University there. He and his wife, June have a daughter, Holly and a son, Benjamin, also a Missouri Master Mason. RWB Smith is a Residential Loan Officer with a St. Louis area bank, and is the Business Development Officer at that bank's Pacific, Missouri Branch. He served in the Navy aboard an Air Craft Carrier at Pensacola Naval Air Station as well as in the Panama Canal
Zone, where he joined the Order of DeMolay. In 2005, he was the recipient of the Truman Medallion. He served as Master of Rose Hill Lodge #550, Master of the Missouri Lodge of Research, the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri, and Associate Guardian Bethel #4 of Job’s Daughters. He is Past Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, the Committee on Chartered Lodges, the Committee on Masonic Education and Past President of the Mid-West Conference on Masonic Education. RWB Smith is affiliated with the Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis (KCCH 33rd Degree), Moolah Shrine, National Sojourners and Hero’s of ‘76, Order of Eastern Star, and the Grand Masters Consecration Breakfast Committee in St. Louis.
Ronald D. Jones Junior Grand Steward Right Worshipful Brother Ronald D. Jones was born on December 16, 1957 in Buffalo, Missouri, and grew up in Springfield. He and his wife Susan have two children, Jeff and Melissa. The Jones family resides in Odessa, Missouri where they are members of the Christian Church. In 1992, RWB Jones was raised in Mount Hope Lodge #476, Odessa, Missouri, where he served as Master in 1995. For five years following, Ron served as DDGM for what is now the 15th Masonic District. Ron has served the Grand Lodge in many capacities, as Grand Pursuivant, 2003-04; 3 years on the Ways & Means Committee; 4 years on the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home; 4 years on the Masonic Scholarship Committee; 5 years as Chairman of the Public Relations Committee; on the Long Range Planning Committee and other special committees. RWB Jones is also the Chairman of the Midwest
Conference on Masonic Education Planning Committee for the year 2010. His other Masonic memberships include: Heroes of ’76, Old Glory Encampment; National Sojourners Chapter #63; Kilwinning Council #19, AMD; Charlemagne Council #79, Knight Masons; Royal Order of Scotland; Harry S. Truman, York Rite College; Missouri Lodge of Research; Independence Chapter #49, RAM; Council #49, Cryptic Masons; Palestine Commandery #17, Knights Templar; Ararat Temple, AAONOMS, and the Scottish Rite, Valley of Kansas City.
Robert T. "Tim" Thomas Senior Grand Marshal Robert T. "Tim" Thomas was born May 15, 1958 in Kissee Mills, Missouri. He attended Forsyth High School where he served as Student Body President. After graduating in 1976, he enrolled at the College of the Ozarks, but his college education was cut short when he had to return to the family farm to assist after the death of his father. RWB Thomas served the country as a member of the Missouri National Guard from 1978 until 1984. During that time, The St. Louis Globe Democrat selected him as Missouri National Guardsman of the year. 34 Spring 2011
RWB Thomas was employed by the Missouri State Water Patrol in 1981. He resides in Crane, Missouri with his wife Kathryn and Daughter Shelby. His son Andy is also a Master Mason at Galena Lodge #515. RWB Thomas was raised in Galena Lodge #515 in 1993 and served as Worshipful Master in 1997. His extensive Masonic activities include service as DDGM 43rd Masonic District, Missouri Lodge of Research Truman Lecture Series Committee and the Scottish Rite Valley of Joplin, (32° KCCH). RWB Thomas is a member of Galena Chapter #7 of the Order of the Eastern Star. He is a York Rite Mason and a member of Springfield Chapter #15 RAM, Zabud Council #25 R&SM, and St. John’s Commandery #20 KT. He is a member of Abou Ben Adhem Shrine in Springfield. He is also a member of the Ozark Order #9 of the Sword of Bunker Hill. the missouri freemason
ATTENTION LODGE SECRETARIES GRAND SECRETARY’S AREA MEETINGS The purpose of these Area Meetings is to provide an opportunity to connect with the Lodge Secretaries and Treasurers, which is a necessity, for without it we cannot succeed. The Grand Lodge Office wants to provide aid, information and assistance when necessary. All secretaries and treasurers are encouraged to attend an Area Meeting, if at all possible. Please feel free to attend any of these meeting sites or dates. I’m looking forward to meeting and talking with you. If you are unable to attend, please make sure your Lodge is represented. SCHEDULE SITES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . TIME Scottish Rite Temple, St. Joseph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tues., May 10, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Independence Lodge No. 76, Independence . . . . . . . . . . Wed., May 11, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Fenton Lodge No. 281, Fenton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tues., May 17, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Farmington Lodge No. 132, Farmington . . . . . . . . . . . . Wed., May 18, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Poplar Bluff Lodge No. 209, Poplar Bluff . . . . . . . . . . . Tues. May 24, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Rolla Lodge No. 213, Rolla . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wed., May 25, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Masonic York Rite Temple, Springfield (United No. 5) . . . . Thurs. May 26, 2011 . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Kirksville Masonic Temple, Kirksville . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wed., June 01, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM Masonic Complex, Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sat., June 04, 2011 . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM Fraternally, Ronald D. Miller, Grand Secretary
Daniel's Gloves;
A representation of Masonic Charity By Douglas Reece Chris sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town square in a small Missouri town called Weston. Chris had just cleaned and spruced up the Lodge for the upcoming official visit of the District Master. The food and the company, locals from the community, were both especially good that day. As they talked, his attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read; "I will work for food." Chris’ heart sank. He was the one who helped to organize the annual Christmas outreach to the needy in the community and he brought him to the attention of his friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief. They continued with their meal, but his image lingered in his mind. They finished the meal and went their separate ways. Everyone had errands to do. Chris was no exception and quickly set out to accomplish them. He glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat halfheartedly for the strange visitor. He was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response, and drove through town and saw nothing of him. He made some purchases at a store and got back in his car. Chris thought about the Master’s charge in the first degree, “…this demand was not made in the spirit of levity, but to teach you a lesson in Charity, which next to a belief in Deity lies and the foundation of Freemasonry.” Deep within him, the Spirit of God kept speaking to Chris:
"Don"t go back to the office until you've at least driven once more around the square." Then with some hesitancy, he headed back into town. He saw him as he turned the square's third corner standing on the steps of the church, going through his sack. He stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. He pulled in, got out and approached the town's newest visitor. "Looking for the pastor?" He asked. "Not really," he replied, "just resting." "Have you eaten today?" "Oh, I ate something early this morning." "Would you like to have lunch with me," Chris asked. "Do you have some work I could do for you?" "No work," he replied. "I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch." "Sure," he replied with a smile. As he began to gather his things, Chris asked some surface questions, "Where you headed?" "St. Louis." "Where you from?" "Oh, all over; mostly Florida." "How long you been walking?" "Fourteen years," came the reply. He knew he had met someone unusual. They sat across from each other in the same restaurant Chris had left earlier. The stranger’s face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an
the missouri freemason Spring 2011 35
eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, "Jesus is The Never Ending Story." Then Daniel's story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought. He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God. "Nothing's been the same since," he said, "I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now. "Ever think of stopping," Chris asked. "Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me but God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles. That's what's in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads." Chris was amazed. The new homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then he finally asked, "What's it like? "What?” "To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?" "Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of other folks like me." Chris’ concept was changing, too. They finished the dessert and gathered Daniel’s things. Just outside the door, he paused and turned to Chris and said, "Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in. "Chris felt as if he were on holy ground. Chris then asked, “Could you use another Bible?” Daniel said he preferred a certain translation. It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. "I've read through it 14 times," he said. "I'm not sure we've got one of those, but let's stop by our church and see." Chris was able to find his new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful. "Where are you headed from here," he asked. "Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon." "Are you hoping to hire on there for a while?" "No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next." He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. He drove him back to the town-square where they had met two hours earlier, and as they drove, it 36 Spring 2011
started raining. Chris parked and helped Daniel unload his things. "Would you sign my autograph book," Daniel asked, "I like to keep messages from folks I meet." Chris wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched his life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And he left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, "'I know the plans I have for you,' declared the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.'" "Thanks, man," he said. "I know we just met and we're really just strangers, but I love you." "I know," Chris said, "I love you, too." The Lord is good!" "Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?" Chris asked. "A long time," he replied. And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, the new friends embraced, and Chris felt deep inside that he had been changed. A feeling he had not had since being raised a Master Mason. Daniel put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, "see you in the New Jerusalem." "I'll be there," was Chris’ reply. Daniel began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, "When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me? " "You bet," Chris shouted back, "God bless." "God bless." And that was the last he saw of him. Late that evening as he left his office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. He bundled up and hurried to the car. As he sat back and reached for the emergency brake, he saw them, a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. He picked them up and thought of his new friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them. It was then he remembered his words: "If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?" Today his gloves lie on Chris’ desk in his office for all to see. They help him to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help him remember those two hours with his unique friend and to pray for his ministry. "see you in the New Jerusalem," he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will... Masonic charity has a twofold effect as demonstrated by the interaction of Chris and Daniel and represented in Chris’ life by a pair of worn work gloves. Moved by his desire to help, Chris entertained Daniel through a small lunch. Daniel, relating his personal story to Chris, Chris found himself changed in ways he had not felt in a long time. Inner commitments that had diminished over time and inner beliefs that were once buried were brought alive by a simple act of providing a little lunch someone had called Masonic Charity. Masonic charity knows no size or bounds. It may be as grandiose as organizing a massive outreach and raising thousands or as simple as giving relief to one stranger in a small the missouri freemason
town restaurant. It may be a campaign to support some worthy cause or just giving a dollar to support a child’s effort to help fund the baseball team. Masonic charity starts and ends within our own hearts. Some give as they know they will be recognized and they have their reward. However, often times it is the smallest act of charity that has the biggest reward. It is not the amount or the publicity, for I doubt that anyone hardly noticed what Chris did for Daniel, but the touching of one soul to another in gratitude. It is the small acts of kindness that change both parties so they grow and feel fulfilled in ways known only to them. A Mason’s search for knowledge and the meaning of
Masonry starts with one small act of kindness. When we go about the rest of the year let us remember what the prophet said and let the meaning of Masonry sink deep within us: "I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again."
Next Deadline Summer Edition April 1, 2011 Email all articles and pictures to editor@momason.org
On the cover: The altar at the Houston Masonic Library and useum and Gray Lodge #329, Houston, Texas. The unretouched M photo is by Brother Bill Bradford, a member of Gray Lodge Since 2008. Brother Bill followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, who was a 32° Mason in Oklahoma, and petitioned for membership in 2008. He has since become the unofficial photographer for many of his Lodge events, and maintains the websites for the Library/Museum (http://www.houstonmasoniclibrary.org) and the Lodge (http://www. gray329.org).
Vetus Indagator "The Old Seeker" By Sam L. Land, 32°, KT "One time when I was in high ville, Missouri, where Lewis was school, Grandfather was posting a a member of Kirksville Lodge young, new, Commandery member #105. She went on to tell me, in the parlor of the house. He was "One of the things I learned to also to teach the young man to propdo from childhood on until he erly draw the sword out of the scabdied, was to put my grandfather's bard, formally come to a salute, and items onto his Templar uniform, get it back into the scabbard. My beginning with the old double grandmother and I were in the kitchbreasted coat on to the modern en. Of course, we could not hear a suit, from real ostrich plumes to thing that was being said; however, plastic ones" all of a sudden there was the most Melissa also told me about awful sound of glass breaking. We a trying experience in her life. both went quickly to the parlor. My Lewis Wright Osborn lived the common magnificence "Whenever I left home to travof his generation and it made a great impression on grandfather was standing there with his friends and family. His grandson, Michael Rahme, el via bus or train, and would a look like a deer in headlights. was a DeMolay and is now a Master Mason. have to change buses or trains, There were two of the glass covers I was always reminded that if of the parlor chandelier no longer in one piece — something I really needed help, to look for the square and compasses about the young man not looking where the sword was going on a man; approach him and say either, 'For Hiram's sake' when he whipped it out of the scabbard and raised it vigor- or 'for the widow's mite,' and I would receive assistance. ously. Grandmother said only two words, 'Lewis, outdoors!' Once when my purse was stolen and I did not have money They quickly went; I cleaned up the expensive carnival glass for the transfer ticket from Moberly to Kirksville, I did that. covers." The man paid for my ticket, and Grandfather sent him the This lovely and believable story was told to me by Me- money the next day." That, my friend, is a Masonic Moment lissa Emily Osborn, the granddaughter of Lewis Wright in action. How often we hear about the benefits of brotherly Osborn and the holder of a 45 year pin from the Order of love and service but we do not always get to find it in acEastern Star. While she was growing up, she frequently tion. stayed with her grandparents, Lewis and Maude, in KirksThis wonderful Freemason began his life in Coaltown, the missouri freemason Spring 2011 37
Pennsylvania, on February 16, 1882, and it ended on August 15, 1974, in Kirksville, Missouri, where he is buried in Highland Park Cemetery. In between times he spent his life working for the United States Postal Service in Kirksville and as a Freemason. He served the USPS 5 months short of 50 years, retiring on February 16, 1957. He spent most of those years as a Postal Service Examiner. His education started in 1897, in the Kirksville Public Schools and continued through 1907. In 1901, he matriculated at the Kirksville Normal College (now Truman University). Upon graduation he spent a year as principal over several local schools. Time at education and the postal service also had to be shared with work on the Nichols farm and visiting the Stuckey farm both near Millard, MO. As a Missouri Freemason, Lewis was initiated a member of Kirksville Lodge #105 as an Entered Apprentice on May 19, 1919, passed to a Fellow Craft on May 22, 1919, and raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason
on June 4, 1919. In 1920, he was Senior Deacon, Junior Warden in 1921 and Senior warden in 1922. From 1925 to 1930 he served as Chaplain. He was a York Rite Companion and served Caldwell Chapter #53 Royal Arch Mason as High Priest in 1922. He served Ely Commandery #22 as eminent Commander in 1928, as Prelate from 1929 to 1931 and continued as an active Past Commander until 1962. If you have someone you would like to see profiled in this column, and he was a Missouri Master Mason who has been deceased for at least 10 years, please send an email to the author at: samland10@yahoo.com with identification of the person, a picture, if possible (.jpg format), and any supporting information, preferably humorous. Sam L. Land is a Master Mason in Jefferson Lodge #43, Jefferson City, Missouri, Jefferson City Chapter #34 RAM, Ezra Council #32 R&SM, Prince of Peace Commandery #29, KT, Orient of Missouri, Valley of Columbia AASR.
Cass Lodge Assists Local Charities With Hackers-n-Hogs
Early this past summer, Brothers Pat a sidewalk around the inside perimeter Zans and Bret Reece, members of Cass of Hope Haven's back yard. Hope Lodge #147 in Harrisonville, proposed Haven often gets bicycles and tricycles that the Lodge host a golf tournament. donated, but there hasn't been a good They suggested the tournament place for the children to ride them benefit Hope Haven of Cass County, because they can't go outside the Harrisonville's local shelter for abused backyard fence to play due to the nature women and children, as well as other of the facility. Masonic charities. The first annual Brother Jim Spencer, also from "Hackers-n-Hogs Golf Tournament Brothers Bret Reece and Pat Zans, Hackers-n- Cass Lodge #147, coordinated the and Pig Roast" was born and held on Hogs Tournament organizers. Hope Haven portion of the project and Saturday, June 26th at Hoot's Hollow donated not only his time, but also Golf Course in Pleasant Hill. Support from the community much of his own materials and equipment. Larry Jones, was overwhelming and a corporate sponsor and 18 hole a friend of the Masons from Belton and a concrete man, sponsors (including the Masonic Home - Thanks!) were donated his time and expertise to ensure that the project soon recruited. Most of the tournament prizes were donated was successful (Yes, we gave him a petition). Discounts and as well. donations were also received from Whistle Ready Mix, Bill At the end of their round, the golfers enjoyed a full fledged Shelton Construction (Brother Shelton is a 50-year member authentic Hog Roast, catered (at no cost to the participants) of Cass Lodge #147) and Danny Myler Construction. by Right Worshipful Brother Art Reece, Secretary of Cass With all of the excellent help, the 120' of sidewalk and the Lodge #147. Following, the event featured an awards 12'x18' patio came in under budget. That allowed the Lodge ceremony with several thousand dollars worth of prizes. to completely re-sod the back yard and put in some much Response from the golfers was fantastic and plans for the needed drainage improvements as well. Vern Everly from second annual "Hackers-n-Hogs Golf Tournament and Pig Everly Sod in Peculiar donated the sod. The Hackers-n-Hogs web site, www.hackersandhogs.com, Roast" are already underway. After the tournament, Brother Reece discussed needed has information and pictures from this year's tournament, and projects with Hope Haven and the Lodge decided to build will soon be updated with dates and information for next year's. 38 Spring 2011
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Honor Flight Helps Vets Visit Memorials In Tribute To Their Service By Dan Blanke, Senior Warden, Central Crossing Lodge #674 In May 2004, the National World War II Memorial was dedicated in Washington, DC. The veterans of this war represent a generation whose youngest member is now 78 years old. With a man's average life expectancy at 74.4, it becomes increasingly difficult for World War II veterans to visit the memorial. And time is not on their side. Honor Flight was initially conceived in 2004 by Earl Morse, a Physician Assistant and Retired Air Force Captain, to honor veterans he has taken care of for the past 27 years. Its sole purpose was to fly veterans to Washington, DC to visit the memorials dedicated to honor their sacrifices. Honor Flight is a volunteer organization, operated out of the goodness of peoples' hearts. The volunteers are ordinary citizens dedicated to honoring our nations' veterans. RWB John A. Pace of Central Crossing Lodge #674 is shown presenting a $700 check to Jamie Dopp, Community Relations Director of television station KYTV (KY-3). Jamie is on the Board of Directors of The Ozark Honor Flight.
This donation will provide one area veteran the chance to travel to Washington, DC to visit the National World War II Memorials.
Shell Knob Masons and Shell Knob Elementary School announce new partnership
care, but don't have the means Shelly Fransen, Superintendent to pay. Central Crossing Lodge of Shell Knob Elementary School #674 is funding $2,000 of the and Brother Dan Blanke, SW of program with a $2,000 matching Central Crossing Masonic Lodge donation from the Shell Knob #674, made a joint announcement Elementary School "Care for Kids" on last October 27 concerning two program. Superintendant Fransen new exciting programs designed commented, "I'm so excited. This to help Shell Knob Elementary is a tremendous feat. Thank you so School needy children. In May at the program announcement, left to Right; much …this is going to be such a 2010, Central Crossing Lodge Pictured Brother Dan Blanke S.W., Duke Denton, SKS School #674 hosted a golf tournament Nurse, Shelly Fransen, SKS Superintendent and R.W.B. benefit to these kids!" A second program of assistance to fund the Masonic Home of John A. Pace. Missouri program, "Creating a Partnership." All monies is available if children need help with school supplies, raised were designated for the benefit of needy children in clothing, shoes and hygiene products. Central Crossing the Shell Knob Elementary School. Through the generosity Lodge #674 is funding "Creating a Partnership" with $1,200, of individuals, golfers and businesses in the area, $3,300 and has asked for matching funds from other interested parties. Anyone knowing of a child who has need of these was raised. Shell Knob teachers, administrators and the Masons held products because of financial situation should contact any of several meetings trying to identify where unattended needs the employees at the school. The Central Crossing Lodge #674 Masons hope this existed. Almost immediately they identified a problem. Every year The Jordan Valley Dental Clinic sends it's mobile program can be carried on for many years to come. They office to the school. Children on Medicaid are offered free will continue to fund this type program with a golf tourney dental care. The group established that there was a segment in the spring. Thanks to all our supporters. If you need more of the children that didn't qualify for Medicaid but needed information on these programs or would like to donate to assistance and were "falling through the cracks." The October this worthy cause, contact Dan Blanke at 417-858-0175, 27 announcement established a program called "Healthy blankedan@yahoo.com or any Central Crossing #674 Smiles for Kids," designed to offer assistance to Shell Mason. Knob Elementary School children who need basic dental the missouri freemason Spring 2011 39
Recovering The Lost Symbols of Saint Louis By Ty G. Treutelaar, Senior Warden, Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1
“The only thing new in the world is the history you don't know”, Harry S Truman.1 Places. Streets. Buildings. Temples. Cemeteries. Mausoleums. Much of the symbolism and history of our Fraternity has been obscured and lost through time and neglect. The Saint Louis region is filled with the lost symbols of our Brotherhood, and the Brethren of Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 invite you to join them in their journey of discovery to find “The Lost Symbols of Saint Louis”. On June 11, Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 will be hosting “The Lost Symbols of Saint Louis”, which will be a digital scavenger hunt through the events and places linked to Freemasonry in Saint Louis. You will the opportunity to explore Saint Louis to find the names of places and streets whose meanings have been all but lost; the wonder of buildings and Temples that have been raised by Brothers and for Brothers; and the remembrance of those at rest in the cemeteries and mausoleums. In a planning meeting for Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1, Brother Robin Dahle presented the idea of a scavenger hunt as a potential fund raiser. All in attendance quickly accepted the idea, but when the idea was furthered by linking the scavenger hunt with Masonry, the door was then opened for this event to provide an entertaining venue to provide all of those who participate with a unique and rewarding experience. Though a bit of Masonic knowledge and lore would be helpful, participation is open to the public as well as all Freemasons and appendant bodies. We would especially encourage the invitation of friends and neighbors, as well as the inclusion of our youth groups such as DeMolay, Rainbow Girls, and Jobs Daughters. Most of the clues will be related to Freemasonry, but a few bits of extra local history could be included from time to time, so a broad range of knowledge on every team might be helpful. Participants will compete in teams of up to five individuals
and each team will be given an identical set of clues to look for the Lost Symbols. The entry fee for each team will be $125 and half the proceeds will be split among the top three teams, with a special trophy recognizing the winning team for the first Lost Symbols of Saint Louis Scavenger Hunt. Certain clues of the Lost Symbols of Saint Louis will help each team to solve the Riddle of the Symbols. There will be a separate $25 contest for those teams who wish to solve the Riddle of the Symbols, and all the Riddle participant winners will share equally in the total Riddle jackpot. The teams will have six hours to find as many of the Lost Symbols as possible and record the findings with a simple digital photograph. In this way no harm is done to any site and we can quickly ascertain the results. While each team will need to provide one digital camera or camera phone; participants are also free to use a GPS, smart phone, or any device that they feel might be of assistance. You will also need to provide your own transportation. Hidden amongst the clues for the digital scavenger hunt will be additional opportunities for extra points through the solving of a code or other written answers. In addition, we will post special extra point clues through the Twitter and FaceBook accounts of The Missouri Lodge of Research (http:// twitter.com/LodgeofResearch and http://www.facebook.com/ MissouriLodgeofResearch), on Mondays, beginning February 28 through May 28, and these clues will only be available on these sites. (The answer to the first posting for March 28 is hidden in this article, and you might wish to read and treat the next issue of the Missouri Freemason with extra care.) Additional information, details, and contact information are available on the website of Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 at stlmason.org, and we hope to see all of you on June 11. 1 “The only thing new in the world is the history you don't know.” From Plain Speaking: An Oral Biography of Harry S Truman (1974) by Merle Miller, p. 26
Freemasonry At Its Best By Lyman Ridgeway, PM
Thelma Appleby has been active in the Eastern Star since the '40s. She volunteers at Harvesters once a week, the Clay County Clothes Closet, is secretary of her Eastern Star Chapter, a Past District Deputy Grand Matron twice, active in White Shrine and her Church. She is a Masonic widow. Her husband, Bert was Master of Gate City Lodge #522. She is 92 years old. On her way to the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club where about 20 of us gather each week, her van broke down. She was spotted by one of her Eastern Star sisters on the way to the breakfast and Past Master Bruce Olds called her a tow truck. The driver dropped her off at the breakfast. The transmission in her van was shot and the cost was going to be more than her van was worth. The word went out that she was in distress. We began to search for something affordable. Worshipful Brother Ben Pagel, Past Master of Gate City Lodge #522, called me and said he found a car she might like. He went to Cable Damer Chevrolet and bought her a 2004 Malibu. Although the Tuesday Breakfast club had decided to take up a collection for the car, Brother Pagel covered the entire expense himself. Thelma and Brother Ben are pictured as they picked up the car together.
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Barney Douglas Receives 2010 Truman Award On Saturday, December 4, nearly one hundred people gathered at Vaught's Restaurant in Gainesville to celebrate the presentation of Missouri Masonry's most prestigious award, the Truman Medal, to Gainesville resident Barney Douglas. Several past and current officers of the Grand Lodge of Missouri accompanied Past Grand Master Larry C. Reynolds as he conducted the presentation ceremony. Each year since 1985, the Grand Master has selected one person to receive the medal. Past Grand Master Reynolds selected Barney Douglas, a sixty-year member of the Masonic Fraternity, not only for his dedication and support of Freemasonry, but also for his lifetime of service to the citizens of Gainesville, Ozark County, and South Central Mis-
souri. Several speakers related how Barney, just by being Barney, had influenced the lives of so many people in such a positive manner. His generous and unselfish service to the community has touched the lives of literally hundreds of residents of Ozark County and the surrounding areas. Raymond Gross of Lions Club International presented a second award to Brother Douglas. That award served to recognize Barney's dedication and support of the Lions Organization and his service to the community. Brother Douglas, 93, was as always, gracious and humble in his acceptance of the awards. Pictured along with Brother Douglas are his wife Doris and Past Grand Master Larry C. Reynolds, presenting the award.
Lodge finds unique way to raise funds In a tight economy, raising money for charitable projects requires more ingenuity and thinking out of the box. This was the Philosophy of fund raising chairman Christopher Dunn, Senior Deacon in 2010 for Camden Point Lodge #169. He presented an opportunity for Lodge members to bring in a steady stream of donations that could help fund the various charitable causes the brothers of this little Lodge see as their calling. Now, as Junior Warden, Brother Dunn continues to refine the Lodge's fund raising program. Brother Dunn, following the lead of the Eastern Star, arranged for the Lodge to work as "Celebrity Servers" at the Local Golden Corral in Kansas City North. As servers, the Lodge supplies workers to clear the tables, refill drinks and keep the guests happy. They receive no wages for their labors relying solely on the generous tips that customers leave. Guests are told whom their servers are and how their tips will be used. The group will do this the first Monday of each month for 11 months in 2011. "We are skipping July due to our commitment to the Camden Point Freedom Festival and the opportunity we have to continue to shine a bright light on Freemasonry in our community," said brother Hewitt.
Shown left to right: WM Kevin Hampton, JW Christopher Dunn, PM Dan Woehrman, SW Ron Hewitt, SD David Woehrman
Most Worshipful Brother Walter L. Walker Grand Master 1973-1974 Widely known in his home town of Neosho, Missouri, and among his Masonic colleagues as “Bud,” Past Grand Master Walker died August 20, 2010. As one of the most senior Past Grand Masters, Bro. Walker had been appointed to the Grand Lodge “Advancing Line” by Grand Master George F. Morrison of St. Louis in 1964. Becoming Grand Master at the age of 46, he was one of the younger Grand Masters
of that generation. Older Masons remember “his year” for his firm presiding style, his pithy speech, his championship of the Western Masonic Home in Kansas City, and his unswerving allegiance to his home Lodge, Stella #538, where he served as Master in 1957. He also recommended to the Grand Lodge that the lawful age for petitioning the FraterContinued on next page …
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Continued from previous page … nity be lowered from 21 to 18. His Address to the Grand Lodge bespoke a most active year for both the Grand Master and the Craft. The future Masonic leader was born October 6, 1927, near Granby, Missouri. He received elementary and secondary education in the Kansas City public schools, finishing high school at Stella where his parents, Walter and Mae Walker, moved in 1944. “Bud” graduated from Joplin Junior College in 1946, following which he served with the U.S. Army of Occupation in Japan in 1946-47. Following that, he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where his education was again interrupted by Army service in Korea in 195051. There, he was wounded in combat. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantry badge, and the Bronze Star (awarded for heroic or meritorious service). In 1953, he graduated from the Missouri University School of Law with the Juris Doctor degree, being admitted to the Missouri Bar that fall. He established his practice in Neosho. Among his professional accomplishments were: Delta Theta Phi legal fraternity, admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court of Western Missouri, president of the Newton-McDonald County Bar Association, Municipal Judge of Neosho. Other professional memberships included membership in the National Association of College and University Attorneys and the American Judicature Society. He was listed in Who’s Who in the Midwest. On June 24, 1951, he was married to Marilyn L. Land, who predeceased him on June 9, 1999. They were the parents of two daughters, Marcia (Cowen) and Charlotte (Ward).
“Bud” doted on his two grandsons, Weston and Cordell Ward, whom he delighted at showing off at Grand Lodge sessions several years ago. Before his appointment as Junior Grand Marshal in 1964, MWB Walker had served on the Grand Lodge Committees on Appeals and Grievances and Jurisprudence. In 1970 he became a member of the Masonic Home Board, serving as its President in1972-73. In addition to his Blue Lodge, Grand Master Walker’s Masonic affiliations included the Scottish Rite, York Rite bodies, the Shrine, Red Cross of Constantine, Order of Eastern Star, Missouri Lodge of Research, and the DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor. “Bud” was most active in civic affairs: Chamber of Commerce, President of the Lion’s Club, American Legion (past commander), Disabled American Veterans, 40-8 Society, and the Crowder College Foundation. He was an active member of the First Christian Church of Neosho, where he had been a Deacon, long time Church School teacher, and Chairman of the Church trustees. MWB Walker’s religious service was held at his home church on August 23, 2010, burial with full military honors following. Masonic services under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Missouri were held the preceding evening with Past Grand Master Glen Means serving as Master. Memorial gifts to the Masonic Home of Missouri, Western Unit, or to Stella Lodge #538 were requested by the family. (The above article was prepared by Past Grand Master J. C. Montgomery with thanks to the Grand Lodge office and material from the Neosho Daily News.)
Wallace Lodge Dedicates New Building In 1869, the interest and efforts of ten local citizens led to the organization of Wallace Lodge #456 in Bunceton, Missouri. In 1872, the Grand Lodge of Missouri granted the Lodge a charter. The Lodge Hall was in The new Wallace Lodge the second story of the Cumberbuilding, dedicated Novemland Presbyterian Church on the ber 11, 2010. corner of Second and Walnut in Bunceton. Wallace Lodge membership grew and the members purchased the ground floor of the church in 1907. The Lodge took over the care and maintenance of the Old City Cemetery located in the north-west corner of the city of Bunceton. Members made many improvements and it was renamed Bunceton Masonic Cemetery. In 1962, Wallace Lodge purchased the old Christian Church building and moved to that location with a dedication ceremony on November 10. Later, members of William D. Muir Lodge #277 of Pilot Grove became affiliated with Wallace Lodge. After many years of planning Wallace Lodge was able to move into its new building on November 11, 2010, in Bunceton, and also dedicated the building on that date. The Lodge consisted of 40 members before the move, and members there 42 Spring 2011
have now advanced eleven new Brothers to the family of Freemasonry. Lodge members are very active in the community and have been for many years. The Lodge has a scholarship fundraiser which has provided three local schools two $500 scholarships each. A Bike-4-Books program provides five local grade schools two bikes each — one for a boy and one for a girl — as an incentive to read and comprehend more books. Lodge members are also involved in many local activities in the surrounding area demonstrating great interest and high ideas that will promote membership.
Members of Cooper Lodge #36 of Boonville and Wallace Lodge #456 of Bunceton attended opening ceremonies of the new Lodge building.
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continued from back cover Now, in an attempt to make the credentials of their graduates more competitive and perhaps more impressive, some seminaries have renamed their B.Div. as a Master’s Degree, and make the honorary degree of D.D. (Doctor of Divinity) give the impression of an earned academic degree. Just so, Freemasons who are declared proficient Master Masons may seek further light in the Capitular, Cryptic, or Templary orders of the York Rite or the Ineffable, Rose Croix, Chivalric, and Consistory degrees in the Scottish Rite. These additional degrees expand on the foundational teachings of the Blue Lodge, which is the basis of all other organizations requiring Masonic affiliation. These members are still “on the level” with all Freemasons — and are no more a Freemason by receiving these appendant degrees than they were after being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Their experiences can be very meaningful, their knowledge of the history and background of the degrees can be broader, and their understanding may be more profound. However, these results depend on the extent of the time and effort they expend on these studies. Any two Master Masons who have no added degrees may develop in two completely different ways. One may be
satisfied to view the ritual at the meetings he attends or perhaps is rarely present to observe a degree, without any study in the symbolism or history of the work. The other may delve deeply into all aspects, learn the ritual himself, pass proficiencies for certification as an instructor, and study the history and symbolism. Both are officially Freemasons, but he latter evidently will gain more knowledge, enjoyment, and benefit from his greater participation. The 2010 edition of the Basic Principles of the United Grand Lodge of England restates a 1929 document, which defines Freemasonry as “the Craft or Symbolic Degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason).” By the solemn Act of Union between the two Grand Lodges of Freemasons of England in December, 1813, it was “declared and pronounced that pure ancient Masonry consists of three degrees and no more, viz. those of the Entered Apprentice, the Fellow Craft, and the Master Mason, including the supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch.” (Laws and Regulations §1) It will be noticed immediately that the degree of Royal Arch was considered not only on the level with that of Master Mason, but a part of it. W. Kirk MacNulty (Freemasonry: Symbols, Secrets, Significance, 2006)
shows a less ornate chart and makes this observation: “it may be that while the Craft Degree rituals evolved in England in the 18th century, parts of the Degrees were removed and preserved as separate ‘Side Degrees’ by Brethren who thought they were important but who wanted to streamline the Three Degree system. … Just as the Mark Degree [1760s] can be seen as the completion of the Fellow Craft Degree, so too has the Holy Royal Arch Degree been seen as the completion of the Master’s Degree. … The ‘Continental’ group of Higher Degrees is centred on the Hautes Grades that emerged in France in the 1740s. … These new Rites and Orders, often referred to collectively as the ‘Higher Degrees,’ offer more detailed interpretations of various Masonic teachings, and by participating in them a Brother is able to develop specific interests” (181). All appendant rites may be described as further steps along the same level in the education of a brother in Freemasonry. As a student of the entire tradition of Freemasonry, I do not consider regarding the Master Mason Degree as the “highest” diminishes the importance of affiliated Masonic orders. As we are reminded at every Lodge meeting, the ideal of all Freemasons is “to meet upon the level, act by the plumb, and part on the square.”
Missouri DeMolay #1 in the World - 7 years in a Row
It is not a secret in Freemasonry that Missouri DeMolay continues to grow and has been the leader in membership growth over the past seven years. In fact Missouri DeMolay not only has the most active DeMolays in the entire world, but also has lead the world in the highest net growth as well as the most new members since 2003. The key lies in the
commitment and dedication of Master Masons devoting their time, talents and treasure to the Masonic Youth – our future leaders – in Freemasonry and in our communities and the world. Enjoy the photographs of our Masonic Youth and those who work with them in so many ways, and get involved today to assure the success of our fraternity tomorrow.
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Rainbow Gets Girls Ready For Life Hello Missouri Masons! The crocuses are beginning to poke their heads through the ground — a sure sign that it's (almost?) Spring in Missouri. What a beautiful time! Are you following through with any of those New Year's resolutions you made? Spring might be a good time to reassess... or start over! My reception is being held on March 12 — because of North Kansas City's Snake Parade vying for parking and celebration space, it's going to be at LIBERTY Assembly's Lodge! Thank you, Liberty! It's going to be an exciting day — especially since the DeMolay Knights Dance honoring the Grand and State Officers of the three Masonic Youth Groups is that evening. This is always a highlight of the year! Shortly afterward, on March 26, the State Dean's Reception will be held in Columbia. This year the State Dean is Hannah Glass. Her theme is "Be a Champion" and her many horse-riding awards were lovingly displayed at her Installation last June. Together we are asking all the Rainbow Girls and Grand Cross Masters to provide support to the Ronald McDonald Houses throughout Missouri. One of the best ways to support the Houses is to provide meals for the parents visiting their children in the nearby hospitals — other ways are to provide gift cards, games, books and elbow-grease (cleaning). Each House has a wish list — please consider helping us support this great project! Taking a look through our Sharing Rainbow Treasures newsletter, let me share with you some of our individual assembly news... First, of course, there have been installations bringing new leadership and new ideas along with many of yesterday's traditions still in place. North Kansas City (my home assembly) held a W. Mark Sexson Founder's Day picnic last summer, seven car washes and had a great group attend the Masonic Youth Day. A Backwards Meeting was voted to be one of the best times "ever" and I am proud to know they are traveling right beside me this year! Pulaski County traveled to the Kansas City Masonic Home in November to present a Rainbow Wall Hanging to be displayed in the Chapel. Take a good look at it when you visit next — it is awesome! Columbia has been represented this past year at the Grand Assemblies in California and Georgia. For the 3rd year in a row the assembly had information tables at the three middle school open houses. Have you been "forked" by Columbia Rainbow Girls yet? Beware! It's a great fundraiser … and YOU could be next! 44 Spring 2011
Lamar Assembly members initiated three girls in August and will tell you they feel they are back on the Rainbow road. Republic continues to enjoy sleepovers … even if the adults yawn a lot afterward. Its members spend three days every summer selling at the Taco Stand and have many service projects each term: these include working to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Association and doing yard work for a blind couple, as well as their annual Relay for Life participation. Rolla also was able to set up an information table at Rolla Middle School and showed the Rainbow DVD to the 5th grade girls at Newburg Elementary School, while the 5th grade boys learned about Boy Scouts. Now there's a great idea! Nearly a dozen Pledges have joined insuring Rolla Rainbow will continue to grow! Moving on to Liberty, the Neurofibromatosis Cancer Fund and the Alzheimer's Association are two of the many service projects that assembly supports — many of you have also met these girls volunteering at MoCHIP events. Marlborough was named "Assembly of the Year" at June's Grand Assembly and it continues to blaze the way forward. Its members still surprise themselves at the numbers that now show up at many events! Their last Installation was held in the Chapel of the Kansas City Masonic Home where the theme was "Let's Rock and Roll Rainbow" — definitely something different for the residents! Past Rainbow Girls from Joplin, Hope, Neosho and Republic Assemblies got together in early December for a reunion — if your wife or someone you know was once a part of one of these Assemblies and want more information about their future events, please contact Catherine Dent, our Supreme Inspector (khakid@aol.com). Friendship Assembly (formerly Springfield Assembly) is now meeting in Ozark — and is having a blast! The members hostessed my first Grand Worthy Advisor visit this year and the country hoe-down funtime will be remembered for a long time to come! (And 60 of us went to Lambert's afterward … m-m-m-m!) St. Louis is serving dinners — at the Ronald McDonald House and for the OES or Lodge nearly every month. It has grown and is continuing to look forward to much more success. Wentzville has attended the Muny and the St. Louis Zoo and, more recently, served a fundraising breakfast at the nearby Applebee's. Well, this is just a glimpse of a few of our Missouri Rainbow Assemblies and nearly every Assembly now has an active Pledge group. You can SEE and learn more of what I've talked about by attending a meeting or other event. Check out our the missouri freemason
website (www.moiorg.org) for Mother Advisor contact information and stop in! Grand Assembly is right around the corner. Can you come to our Formal Opening Ceremony? It will be June 26 at 3:00. John Q. Hammons Convention Center in Springfield is the place to be. Enter it on your calendar or planner now. This promises to be a memorable event!
Oh, and Missouri Rainbow's 2011 resolution that we're trying hard to keep... to promote? "Make Rainbow a household word!" Will you help us with this, too? Leave a Legacy!
You may not know that an organization exists within the Masonic family that is especially for girls between the ages of ten and twenty. That organization is Job's Daughters International. We are, first and foremost, a Masonic Youth Group for girls. Our Order builds self-esteem in young women, gives them the tools to achieve their dreams, gives them the opportunities for educational advancement through scholarships, teaches them how to speak in front of an audience, teaches them how to run a business meeting, how to plan functions and events, and also creates lifelong friendships between the girls. Job's Daughters is a wonderful tool that also teaches poise, graciousness and humility. We prepare young women for the hardships of everyday life, and help them to learn how to excel in all aspects of their own lives. It may not be known to you that each member owns a Ritual and is responsible for memory work; that the Bible is open during our meetings; that we honor our country's flag and that charity and benevolence to those less fortunate is part of our creed. We support our official charity, The HIKE Fund, Inc., which helps children with mild to severe hearing loss by providing hearing aids and devices. Personally, Job's Daughters has assisted in building my character and has taught me strong moral standards. I can now take initiative, I can lead, I can organize and coordinate, I can express my opinions eloquently, meet new people easily and make lasting friends, yet NONE of this would have been possible without this Order. It has shaped me into the woman I am, and the woman I will become. I am forever grateful for what Job's Daughters has given me. The ONE thing that separates our youth group from Rainbow and DeMolay, is that we require a Masonic relationship to join our order. And due to that exclusivity, a heritage which we hold so dear, we need your help now, more than ever. We work hard to retain members, and we work even harder to find new ones, but gentlemen, we can only do so much. In Missouri we have about 230 active Daughters, which
leads me to the point I am here to make today. Job's Daughters membership has declined by 50% since its inception in 1920. Bethels, our meeting places, used to have at or around 200 members, today we are lucky if we have a full corps of officers on the floor, consisting of only 19 positions. While Missouri Job's Daughters is incredibly fortunate and grateful to have the Masonic support that it does, not every Jurisdiction can be so lucky. My own home Bethel, Bethel #7 in Smithville, is thankful for the wonderful support given by Temperance Lodge #438. We have at least one Mason at every meeting, and they will do, and have done anything it takes to help keep our Bethel going. We are forever indebted to them for everything they have done for my Bethel. At our Supreme Session held in Colorado Springs this past August, I had the pleasure of hearing the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Larry C. Reynolds, speak, and in his speech he stressed the importance of Masonic family and working together. Gentlemen, we are a family, DeMolay, Rainbow, and Job's Daughters are your children. Job's Daughters would never exist without our Masons or our Masonic heritage. If you attend our meetings, and I certainly encourage it, you will hear for yourself our prayer that states "Bless and protect we pray Thee, the Master Masons who give us heritage." We are your legacy and we need your help to grow stronger. I ask of you today to encourage your daughters, stepdaughters, granddaughters, nieces, sisters, half sisters, any woman that is between the ages of 10 and 20 years of age that you are related to, to join Job's Daughters. I know they will benefit from membership in Job's Daughters and in turn greatly help this branch of the Masonic family tree to grow. For more information please contact Ginny Goede at ggoede@charter.net.
Elizabeth Jester, Grand Worthy Advisor 2010-2011, State of Missouri, International Order of Rainbow for Girls
Jobie Love, Erica Wallace Grand Bethel Honored Queen
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Masonic Home of Missouri Board President's Message The members of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home would like to take this opportunity to wish all our Brothers and Sisters a Happy New Year. The year 2010 was a very productive one for the Masonic Home of Missouri. Our outreach program continues to expand and with the generosity of the Masons of Missouri we are able to meet the needs of those we serve. While the final numbers from the year end appeal are not available at this time, the early numbers show just how generous we are as Masons. Thank you for everything you do for our members that need help from the Home. Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth are the tenets of a Mason and they are on display daily through the Masonic Home. As St Paul said, “The greatest of these is Charity.” If you were able to hear the heartfelt thanks that our staff and Board members receive on a daily basis, if you could feel in your heart the grati-
tude that comes to the Home from the Brothers and Sisters who we are able to provide assistance, if you could see the smile on children's faces when, through your generosity, Holiday presents are there for them under the Christmas tree, you would know how your involvement in the programs of the Home make life better for all those who need our assistance. The members of the Board of Directors continue to act in your best interest and take the job that you have given us with the highest dedication and resolve to make the Masonic Home of Missouri the best that it can be. As we move forward in the New Year, we will be able to provide you with more details in regard to your support of the annual appeal and the work that the Home does for our membership. Fraternally and Sincerely,
John W Hess President, Board of Directors
Masonic Home of Missouri Executive Director's Message As we ring in the New Year I want to thank all of our supporters for their continued contributions and for their additional giving during the Holiday season. These monies provide relief for our members in need. With the changing of the calendar year we want to continue to ask for your assistance in aiding these individuals whether it is through referrals for someone who may possibly need assistance or donations. The Masonic Home Outreach referral card is a very useful tool that provides you, the membership, an opportunity to keep your eyes and ears open to those brother or sisters who may need assistance through the Outreach Program. All individuals’ identities that make application to the Outreach Program are kept confidential. Utilizing the referral card is easy. Simply fill in the information requested, tape the card shut and drop it in the mailbox (postage is already pre-paid). Should your Lodge or chapter need some of these cards to keep on hand please contact the Public Relations Department at the Masonic Home of Missouri to submit your request for supplies. In addition to using referral cards, we always accept information via phone and once again this information is always kept confidential. Sometimes asking for help is the hardest thing to do. That’s way it is so important that we have your assistance in seeking out those people who may be in need of assistance. 46 Spring 2011
Lastly, we continue to thank you for your continued monetary support as this is how we are able to provide these members with the many different types of assistance made available to eligible members through the Outreach Program. With the uncertain economy we all face, it continues to make us aware of those growing numbers of members who are very much in need at this time and it is through your support we are able to ease the burden for many eligible members. In this New Year we would also like to encourage you to attend a NEWLY formatted Masonic Home Program. We want to give you a better insight on the lives you are touching through the Outreach Program Statewide and how you made this possible. I also ask you to keep on the lookout for our new Widows Luncheons that we will be establishing statewide. Masonic Widows will receive an invitation when a program is scheduled in their area. This will also give us the opportunity to finally honor them for their continued support to Freemasonry and the Masonic Home. I hope my message finds you well and hope you have a blessed New Year! Fraternally,
H. Keith Neese, Executive Director, Masonic Home of Missouri the missouri freemason
Bringing Holiday Cheer To Everyone Far And Near Bringing holiday cheer to everyone far and near on December 15th, Masonic Home of Missouri staff journeyed to the Assisted Living Facility in Kansas City to spend part of the holidays with our residents. Gifts were delivered to the delight of each Brother and Sister. Staff enjoyed lunch and conversation. It's always a treat to go and visit our friends out west to hear the interesting sto-
ries they have to tell and to catch up on all we've missed since our last visit. We hope you will take time to visit the residents in Kansas City, or at your local residential, assisted or skilled care facilities in your area. Let us always remember our fellow Brothers and Sisters who appreciate a visit from someone who cares. Blessings to you in 2011.
Lodges Serve the Community Through the Creating-A-Partnership Program
Osage Lodge #303
Members of Osage Lodge #303, Nevada, presented a check to the Nevada R-5 School District for $2,487 at a ceremony held in the Nevada High School Library. That amount included a $1,243.50 donation from Osage Lodge and a matching donation of the same amount from the Masonic Home of Missouri. This is the fourth year the Lodge has partnered with the Masonic Home to donate funds to the school to provide coats, gloves, clothing and other basic necessities to children who otherwise would not have them. The amount the Lodge and Masonic Home have donated over that time totals $7,723.64. Nevada R-5 Health Services Manager Denise Nelson expressed her appreciation for the efforts of the Lodge members in doing more than just providing the funds, “In addition to the donation, our local Masons assist with the shopping, transporting, delivering and unloading of the purchased items to the individual schools. This is a tremendous help to the school nurses and just another example of the commitment of these men to the children in our community. As school nurses , we so appreciate their help, enthusiasm and kindness.” Nelson said the donation assisted 100 students in one way or another and many of the students wrote thankyou notes to the Lodge; however, due to confidentiality rules she was unable to share them with the Lodge members. She said that the children were truly grateful for the items that they received. *Article written in the Nevada Herald-Tribune
Sedalia Lodge #236
Brother Luge Luetjen notified the Masonic Home of Missouri of Sedalia Lodge's service to its community through
Lawrence Cripps (left), on behalf of the members of Osage Lodge #303 and the Masonic Home of Missouri, presents a donation check to Nevada R-5 Superintendent David Stephens. Also pictured (left to right) are front row, Tracy Barmann, Kora Anderson and Denise Nelson: back row, Jim Phillips, David Grubbs, Gary Jones and Robin Daniels.
the Creating-A-Partnership Program. Sedalia Lodge #236 services a student community of approximately 6,100 students, of which some 3,600 are disadvantaged. Of those disadvantaged, The CAP program will assist 283. Wal-Mart is also working with Sedalia Lodge by giving a gift certificate to each school in the amount of 10% of both the Lodge and the Masonic Home of Missouri's contribution. Please check with your local stores to see if they will partner with your Lodge to further help children in need in your community. Sedalia Lodge #236 is happy to be a part of one of the most appreciated programs the Masonic Home of Missouri offers. Thank you to all the Lodges for your hard work, dedication and partnership. You ease the hardships for Missouri's children.
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C O N F I D E NT IA L Masonic Home of Missouri
❑ Designated the Masonic Home of Missouri as a beneficiary in a retirement plan
I am pleased to inform you of the following gift to support
❑ Please contact me regarding Partnering Opportunities
the mission and work of the Masonic Home of Missouri.
❑ Please keep my gift confidential
I/we have taken the following action:
❑ I/we would like to make a planned gift for the benefit
❑ Named the Masonic Home of Missouri in a will or
of the Masonic Home of Missouri. Please contact me to assist in my/our choice and completion of the gift.
codicil ❑ Contributed to a charitable trust identifying the Masonic Home of Missouri as a beneficiary ❑ Arranged a contribution by charitable gift annuity ❑ Included the Masonic Home of Missouri in some other planned giving instrument (please describe)
Please complete this form and mail it or email it to Keith Neese kneese@mohome.org or Sara Snodderley ssnodderley@mohome.org. If you have specific questions please call (800) 434-9804.
The Masonic Home of Missouri is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization.
PARTNERING OPPORTUNITIES Name ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Home Address ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� City ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ State ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ Zip Code �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Home Phone (_____) ���������������������������������������������������������������������� Best Time to Call (a.m. or p.m.) Birth Date ������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Email Address ����������������������������������������������������������������������������
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Save these Dates!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Masonic Home of Missouri 9th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing Columbia Country Club in Columbia, Missouri If you have already pre-registered make sure to mark this date in your calendars. If you cannot attend please let us know as soon as possible. If you would like a chance to play in this year’s golf tournament please call the Masonic Home office at 800-434-9804 to be put on our waiting list, or preregister for 2012.
Saturday, September 24, 2011 6th Annual Truman Club Dinner
Country Club of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri If you have not been publicly presented your Truman Club Harry S Truman Bust, we would be honored to have the opportunity to recognize you at this years dinner. If you have questions about this annual event please call the Masonic Home office at 800-434-9804.
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The Lodges & Craft News & Notes • Cooper Lodge #36 delivered 45 Christmas Baskets this year to its home-bound Brothers and Widows. Deliveries were made to Boonville, Columbia, Jefferson City, St. Clair, and Eldon. • On September 14, Cooper Lodge #36 installed its officers for 20102011. Installing Master Billie R. Sullivan, Installing Marshall Russ Bradshaw and Installing Chaplain Tom Miller conducted the ceremony. The newly installed officers were: Worshipful Master Marvin Utterback, Senior Warden Matt Price, Junior Warden John Ernest, Treasurer Ted Litton, Secretary John Holtzclaw, Senior Deacon Rick Zimmerman, Junior Deacon Todd Hill, Senior Steward Gary Whitehurse, Junior Steward Daniel Cary, Marshall John Ernst, Jr., Chaplain Bill Burnett, Tyler Rick Bell, Masonic Home Representative Roy Cary and Masonic Education Officer Tom Miller. • Fraternal Lodge #363 of Robertsville once again has provided a merrier Christmas for 34 families in its area. The Lodge assembled baskets for them that include a ham, canned goods, dry goods, fresh fruits and many staples. Robertsville Chapter #444 OES provided the home baked cookies. The Agape House in Pacific provides the gifts for each family. • Buckner Masonic Lodge held its annual Installation of Officers on October 3, 2010. The Installing Master was the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accept Masons of the State of Missouri, Gail S. Turner. Installing Marshal was Past Grand Master Stanley M. Thompson and the Installing Chaplin was Ronald D. Jones, Junior Grand Steward. The officers installed were Worshipful Master, Stanton T. Brown, Sr.; Senior Warden, Clayton Thompson; Junior Warden, Thomas L. Truman (serving as a Grand Chaplain for the Grand Lodge); Treasurer, Stanton T. Brown, II (serving as District Deputy Grand Master 19th District); Secretary, John W. Hess (Deputy Grand Master of Missouri); Senior Deacon, Jake Wilcher; Junior Deacon, Richard Gibson; Senior Steward, Jason Adams; Junior Steward, Guiseppi Baldin; Chaplin, David B. Brown; Marshal, Cameron Parker; and Tyler, Justin Barrett. Jobs Daughters presented the Bible ceremony and Palestine Commandery #17 of the Knights Templar of Independence presented the American Flag. Buckner Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, served refreshments. Approximately 60 people attended the installation consisting of members, their families and friends. Stanton Brown was first installed master of Buckner Lodge 50 years ago in 1960. The Lodge met at that time in the old Lodge building at 324 S. Hudson over the Chester Auld Grocery store. • Cooper Lodge #36 served Brother Arlin Baker's famous chili and fixin's at the annual fundraiser for those in need locally on Saturday, October 30 at the Blue Lodge. All proceeds will be given back to the community. Lodge Brothers raised $5,490 this year and served about 60 gallons of chili. Last year, 40 Christmas baskets were delivered to widows, home-bound members and adopted families of the Lodge. In addition, Senior Centers in Boonville and New Franklin and 99 families were touched as a result of the fundraiser. This included a donation of $500 to the Stein House Restaurant, which serves a free Thanksgiving dinner for the community. The Boonslick Shrine Club also donated $500. The Lodge donated tickets to Unlimited Opportunities for the chili fundraiser. • Brother Billie Sullivan has been a Past Master and Secretary of Cooper Lodge #36 for more than 20 years. He retired as Secretary last September but will still be active in Lodge affairs. Lodge brothers honored WB Sullivan in a special ceremony and presented him with a plaque in recognition of long and vital service to the Lodge and Masonry in general. • Friday evening, December 17, Fifteen members of the Swope Park Masonic Family assembled 100 gift bags for distribution to patients at the Kansas City Veteran's Hospital. Included in this year's gift bags were socks, a stocking cap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, oranges, bananas and a letter from the Lodge thanking them for their service. The following Saturday morning, this group plus 6 others, returned to the Lodge, loaded the gift bags and 10 quilts into
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their cars and then delivered them to the hospital. The patients receiving the gift bags were very surprised and thankful, as was the hospital staff. This is the fourth consecutive year for this project which has grown every year since instituted. The project was initiated by RWB Larry Cameron, an Air Force veteran, in 2007. Masonic bodies represented were, William F. Kuhn Chapter DeMolay, Bethel #1 Job's Daughters, William F. Kuhn Chapter #139 Royal Arch Masons, Swope Park Chapter #520 Order Eastern Star and Swope Park Lodge #617. They gathered in the lobby for a group photo before going upstairs and distributing a little Christmas cheer and the gift bags. • The members of Cecile Daylight Lodge #305 took up a collection to purchase a paver stone in honor of RWB Mike Armstrong, our deceased Regional Grand Lecturer, who was so much a part of our Masonic Life. The stone reads: In memory of RWB "Mike" Armstrong, RGL Region "C"; 2-1-45 -- 11-9-09; Cecile Daylight #305, Independence, Missouri. • A lot of children in southwest Stone County enjoyed a Christmas party provided by Table Rock Lodge #680. Eighty-three children, ages one through ten, were invited to attend the party, where Santa gave them all a toy appropriate to their age. The children also enjoyed cookies galore, candy, cocoa, juice, plus apples and oranges. This has been an annual event since the Lodge was chartered and the Lodge members seem to enjoy it as much as or more than the children. Santa was there to present the toys and bring joy to all. The clowns of Abou Ben Adhem, as usual, were the hit of the party. They painted faces, made balloon toys and just did what clowns usually do. They have made this event a hit since it first started and we appreciate their enthusiastic support. • Branson Masonic Lodge #587 installation of officers for the year 2010 and 2011 was Saturday night October 9, 2010. Prior to the ceremony, the sisters of Chapter #299 of the Eastern Star served dinner. The installing officers were Most Worshipful Brother Gail Turner, Grand Master of AF&AM of Missouri, Installing Master; RWB Webb Edwards, Installing Marshal and RWB Berry Jenkins, Installing Chaplain. The officers installed are as follows: WM Lyle Stanley, SW Bob Stapleton, JW Mike Ward, Treasurer Ken McCue, Secretary Herb Terrill, SD Rick Hutchesen, JD John Bahler, SS Greg Bahler, JS Scott Christensen, Marshal Bob McGuirt and Tyler Don McGuirt. • Independence Lodge #76 held its installation of officers on October 9, 2010 — the 155th year of the Lodge's Charter from the Grand Lodge. Tuxedos and white gloves were the dress of the day. Past Worshipful Master Don Patterson handed over the Lodge gavel to the new Worshipful Master, Kenneth R. Nelson, Jr. Right Worshipful Brother Stanton Brown II conducted the presentation of the new officers. • Union Lodge #593 held an outdoor Lodge on October 9, 2010. The Lodge was opened at 7:00 AM as the Sun rose above the Master's left shoulder. Lodge was followed by a fantastic breakfast of chipped beef over toast, which was prepared by Brother Tourville. • Installation at New Madrid Lodge #429 for the 2010 - 2011 year took place October 11, 2010. Installed were: WB Johnny Edwards, Treasurer; WB Charles C. Hatley, Secretary; RWB Johnny Schlenker, Installing Master; Gary D. Cook, Senior Deacon; WB Dave Rutherford, Installing Marshall; William T. French, Marshall; Thomas E. Hunter, Junior Deacon. Back row: Thomas G. Burch, Worshipful Master and WB Tom Chism, Senior Warden. • Sampson Lodge #298 held its regular monthly community breakfast on Saturday, December 4, which included a special appearance by Santa Claus. Several children from the Theodosia area enjoyed the always hearty Masonic breakfast and were then able to sit and talk with Santa. Each of the children received candy canes and gifts from the jolly old fella. • Owensville Lodge #624 held its Installation of officers on September 2, 2010. Installed were: Richard Jones, Senior Steward; Curtis Duncan, Junior Steward; Dennis Jenkins, Senior Warden; Robert
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Kormeier, Tiler; Roger Grob, Marshall; Michael Craig, Worshipful Master; Steve Lynn; Carroll Moorman; Rob Hughey, Junior Deacon; Jeffrey Smith, Junior Warden; Henry Schmidt, Senior Deacon; Christopher Bilbrey, Chaplain; John Kreter, Secretary. Not pictured: Robert McKee, Treasurer. • Forsyth Lodge #453 hosted Past Masters' night on December 9, 2010. In attendance were: WB Rick Treese, RWB Johnny Essary, WB Jackie Hall, RWB David Combs, WB Kenny Lambton, WB Clayton Cooper, WB Norman Price, RWB Bill Cox, WB Ron Houseman, RWB Knial Iorg, WB Keith Barker, WB Noel Campbell, WB John VanSlyke (Sparta). • On Sunday, September 18, 2010, Bridgeton Lodge #80 had its installation of Officers. RWB Joe Johnson served as Installing Master with RWB Melvin Ash as the Installing Chaplain and WB Bob Diekmann as Installing Marshall. • Forsyth Lodge #453 held its annual installation on September 18, 2010. Installed were: Ronald Combs, JD; Lynn Behrends, JW; Clarence Sims, SW; Tom Trotter, JS; RWB Bill Cox, Installing Master; Rick Davidson, SD; WB Clayton C. Cooper, WM; RWB Knial Iorg, Installing Marshall; WB Noel Campbell, Secretary; RWB Kevin Essick, Installing Chaplin; Aaron Rhodes, Tyler. WM Cooper's father, Clayton P.
Cooper attended the ceremony. Both father and son are Past Masters and between them have over 100 years of Masonic service. • With the 2010-2011 school year underway Cooper Lodge #36 geared up for its highly successful Masonic "Bikes-for-Books" program for a third year. Brother Roy Cary first organized this event with the help of other Masonic members, and included elementary and middle schools in both Cooper and Howard counties. Last year nine schools participated in the program. For the Fall semester in 2010, the Lodge placed 40 bikes in the schools. The generous sponsorship of both individuals and businesses made this possible. • Worshipful Master Charles Farris, assisted by RWB Larry Cameron, WB Kenny Best and WB Jim Payne, loaded 90 quilted bedspreads in a van and distributed them to three worthy charities to ward off the cold weather this winter. The first two stops were shelters run by ReStart, Inc., which provides emergency shelter for single men, women and children on a temporary basis, as well as transitional shelter for up to 24 months. In addition, Lodge Brothers stopped at City Union Mission where Ed DeLapp, a City Union Mission Site Director, received 30 bedspreads on behalf of the Facility.
WM Charles Farris and WB Kenny Best presented Melissa Jacobson, Chief of Volunteer Services at the Kansas City Veteran’s Hospital, with 25 sleeping bags to be given to homeless veterans in the Kansas City area. Ms. Jacobson thanked the Lodge for the donation and said the sleeping bags would be greatly appreciated by the area’s homeless veterans. The sleeping bags were made by Ms. Darlene Pollard and Ms. Betty Jones at the East Side Church of Christ in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, from remnants donated by Fabri-Quilts of North Kansas City. They said each sleeping bag takes approximately one hour to complete.
Swope Park Lodge #617 raised Jason Newcomer (center) to the sublime degree of Master Mason on October 14, 2010. WB Farris (left) obligated Brother Newcomer assisted by WB Jim Payne, (second from left) Newcomer’s maternal grandfather (SD), Russ Newcomer (right) the candidate’s father (SS), and C.J. Newcomer (far right), paternal grandfather (JS). RWB Dennis Spears raised Brother Jason in the second section of the degree, assisted by WB Payne, who had the honor of raising his grandson. RWB David Colburn (second row, left) gave the Lecture and RWB Paul Miller (second row, right) gave the Charge. Brother Russ and Brother C.J. Newcomer conducted the candidate though his first two degrees earlier, and WB Jim Payne obligated him in those degrees. Brother Jason Newcomer is a third generation member of Swope Park Lodge, following his grandfathers WB Jim Payne, C.J. Newcomer and his father Russell Newcomer.
At a regular communication of Linn Creek Lodge #152 on December 9 Brother Paul Warman was presented with a plaque honoring him for his dedication to our holiday food drive. The presentation was made by Worshipful Master Capt. Gary Bowling. Each year Brother Warman spends several weeks canvassing the many merchants in our area soliciting donations to our annual food drive for the holidays. This year Brother Warman collected just over $6,000 in food, personal items, and cash along with the generous donations of our members making for a joyous holiday season for several families. We were also able to donate to several service organizations who help the less fortunate families in our area.
Once again the Branson Lodge #587 Christmas Basket program was a big success due to the hard work of our Chairman, WB Don McGuirt, and others. Together they brought the year's work to a close by preparing over 65 Christmas Baskets and over 30 gifts for the windows. WB Don McGuirt would like to say to say thanks to all brothers and Eastern Star members who helped assemble and deliver the baskets. Robin Bershied did another great job this year organizing the baskets and names, which helped the week's work go a lot smoother.
Fraternal Lodge #363 held a Christmas party on December 18, inviting OES members, Lodge widows, Fraternal members, their children and grandchildren. The Masons provided the meat for the dinner, with everyone bringing a covered dish. The hall was full of conversation and laughter, with children here and there. Then Santa showed up. Shouts and, "Oh Santa" could be heard. Santa brought gifts for everyone. It was great seeing the hall full of people coming together to celebrate the season.
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Timothy Cannon, Worshipful Master of Chaffee Lodge #615 presented Bro Jack Bishop with his 50-year jewel and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri at a meeting of the Lodge in October.
In December Forsyth Lodge #453 recognized PM Norman J. Price for his loyal and dedicated service as Lodge Secretary from 1997 to 2010. Past Master Clayton Cooper presented the award on behalf of all members of the Lodge.
At a stated communication on October 15, 2010, WM Larry Loomis presented the outgoing WM Justin Mueller with a Grand Lodge Silver Ritual Award certificate and an Honor Award for Lodge Achievement certificate recognizing Sullivan Lodge's 5% increase in membership.
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On December 19, 2010, Hope Lodge #251, Washington, Missouri donated funds to Loving Hearts Outreach to purchase 4,000 pounds of food and supplies for its food pantry operation. Pictured: Sandy Crider, the Executive Director of Loving Hearts Outreach, accepting the funds from Hope Lodge #251 Secretary John Erfurdt Jr. and Worshipful Master David Whittaker.
Wakanda Lodge #52 of Carrollton, Missouri, held its installation of officers on Saturday August 28, 2010. Kevin Walden was installed as Worshipful Master. Standing with WB Kevin Walden are his two brothers, On the left is WB Steve Walden, PM 2010, and on his right is WB Allen Walden, PM 1980, both of Wakanda Lodge. On the altar before them is a picture of their father, WB Tom Walden, PM 1965, who passed away in 1999.
WB Bruce E. McGlasson, Worshipful Master, Union Lodge #593, Union, Missouri is shown presenting a Weatherby 12 gauge shotgun to the winner of the Shotgun Raffle held by the Union Booster Club. Johnny Hargrove of Union, Missouri held the winning ticket which was drawn on October 16, 2010.
Independence Lodge #76 Past Masters' Dinner was a huge success. It was held in the Lodge's dining room with a turnout of ten Past Masters and guests. The delicious dinner was prepared by the Ladies of the Eastern Star. New Worshipful Master Kenneth Nelson, Jr. introduced the Past Masters and distinguished guests, including Most Worshipful Donald Scott and many Right Worshipful Brothers. Photo submitted by Junior Warden Bill Wallace.
In early November, Sampson Lodge #298 and the Ozark County Garden Club cooperated in a project that resulted in a Christmas tree planting at the Theodosia Village Hall. The children of Lutie Elementary School will decorate the tree, which is located across the road from the village hall. The participants hope this will become a holiday tradition for the children of Theodosia. In the picture, Senior Warden Len Modlinski and Garden Club President Gerry Mossolle preparing the ground for planting.
On October 14 Sampson Lodge #298 participated in the annual "Meet The Community" event sponsored by the Theodosia Area Chamber of Commerce. The event was held in the Lutie School gymnasium with the intent to introduce members of the community to the various businesses, clubs, civic groups and charitable organizations that serve the Theodosia area. Pictured participating in the event are Sampson Lodge Brothers Len Modlinski, Senior Warden; David Vaughn, Worshipful Master and Wes Frazer, Secretary.
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Wayne Lodge #526 recently received Missouri Grand Master Larry Reynolds, at which time the Grand Master gave One of our Brothers, RWB Marion Luna, a plaque for his years of service to the fraternity and as the Grand Treasurer for the past 30 years. Pictured (front row, left to right) Regional Grand Lecturer Wayne Tucker, WB Raymond Silvey, WB Donald Clements, MWB Larry Reynolds, WB Michael Hill, WB Mark Hackworth Jr., WB John Daugherty (back Row) RWB Richard Smith, RWB John Broyles, Jason Street.
Once again, Camden Point Lodge #169 in Camden Point, Missouri marked the time change by passing out batteries and smoke detectors in the community. Pictured here is Kevin Hampton, Worshipful Master, leading the way to the third "Shining Light on Fire Prevention" event funded by the Lodge.
On December 21, 2010, Santa and crew paid a visit to Loraine Lyles, wife of Brother Mark Lyles of Olive Branch Lodge #576. Shown left to right: Santa (Charlie Islin, George Washington #9), Bob Lang (Olive Branch Lodge #576), Mark Lyles (Clayton #601), Walter Sawicki II and Loraine Lyles.
At its October 4 meeting Branson Masonic Lodge presented Branson School District a $500 check on behalf of the Masonic Home of Missouri Outreach Program. The donation will assist needy families in helping their children get school supplies and clothes for the school year. Worshipful Master Dallas Smith presented Dr. Doug Hayter, Superintendent of Branson School District, with the check. Brenda Romine, Communication Director For Branson School District was also present.
Camden Point Lodge #169, led by its Masonic Home Representative Ron O’Neal, paid a visit to the elementary school in Camden Point, Missouri, to distribute winter coats to children. The Lodge and the Masonic Home outreach program shared the cost of the coats. Students of the school assisted Brother O'Neal with displaying the coats.
Knob Knoster Lodge presented Patsy Gregory a widow's pin on December 2, 2010, as a part of its Christmas meeting activities. Pictured: Shannon Findley of The Masonic Home presenting the pin to Mrs. Gregory, who is the widow of Brother Harold Gregory.
Page Skelton was raised a Master Mason on November 22, 2010 at Hiram Lodge #40 in Raleigh NC. His dad, Brother Isaac Newton Skelton IV, (raised in Lexington, Missouri Lodge #147 in 1957) raised his son Page. Pictured between Ike and Page is Tom Imler, Master of Hiram Lodge.
Linn Creek Lodge brothers this year once again delivered a truckload of food to several families in our area in time for Christmas. Shown left to right are WM Gary Bowling, WB Larry Clemens, Ken Rewerts, WB Bill Gansemer, Paul Warman, WB Art Hodel and Richard Simons.
Cooper Lodge #36 houses Boy Scout Troop #67. Recently, the Lodge donated $300 to the Troop from the proceeds of this year’s golf tournament. This will help fund the activities of the Boy Scouts. Pictured left to right: Roy Cary, Scout Master Clark Williams, John Holtzclaw.
On September 12, 2010, Friendship Lodge #89, Chillicothe, along with officers in the Grand Line conducted a cornerstone ceremony for Mt. Zion Baptist Church.
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Brother East Burke and Brother Daryl Calvert received their 50-year pins in St. Francisville Lodge #588. Brother Burke has held every officer position (elected and appointed) in the Lodge.
On October 16, 2011, Right Worshipful Brother David Frealy presented Brother Donald E. Ross with his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Brother Frealy's lovely wife Ailene presented his pin. Brother Don then commented on the many friends he has made through Masonry and thanked the Lodge for this honor.
On October 27, 2010, Cooper Lodge #36 hosted the Masonic 22nd District meeting. RWB Jim Wade, DDGL, presented RWB David Strodman with his well-deserved 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Pictured left to right: Mrs. Strodman, RWB Jim Wade, RWB David Strodman and RWB Russell Cook.
On Saturday December 4, 2010, Wakanda Lodge #52 held its annual Christmas dinner for members and invited guests. Special guest for the evening was Most Worshipful Brother Gail S. Turner, Grand Master of The Grand Lodge of the State of Missouri. It was his honor to present WB Eugene Pattie his 60-year pin as a member of the Masonic fraternity. A great meal and an evening of fellowship followed.
Brother Floyd W. Brown of Mizpah/Mt. Moriah Lodge #40, Florissant, received his 50-year pin from District Deputy Grand Master Ron D. Reynolds on May 18, 2010. The presentation was preceded by dinner and attended by Florissant Chapter #161 OES members. Brother Brown is a Past Patron and is currently the Treasurer of the Eastern Star Chapter.
Branson Masonic Lodge had the honor of presenting a 50-year pin to Brother Dale Cadwallader, who has been active in Freemasonry with most of his time and efforts toward the Eastern Star. Brother Cadwallader has served as Worthy Patron several times and as a Grand Officer. He also served as a DeMolay Dad for some time. WB Herb Terrill made the presentation.
WB Kenneth Gebhardt recently received his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. MWB Rocky Weaver, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri made the presentation.
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Brother Eli Jeffries, Ancient Landmark Lodge #356 and WB James Cunningham, Twilight Lodge #114 are shown receiving their 50year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri in Twilight Lodge #114. Pictured (left to right) are: WB Mike McMahan, Gin Jeffiries, Eli Jeffries, James Cunningham, Alva Cunningham, and WM Jeff Keevil.
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Lamar Lodge #292 recently hosted Grand Master Larry C. Reynolds, who presented a 65-year pin to Ted Blanchard and a 50-year pin to Dean Blaser. Pictured left to right are Lamar WM Henry Taffner, Dean Blaser, MWB Reynolds and Ted Blanchard.
Marilyn Boyd presents her husband Robert Boyd with his 50-year pin at Corinthian Lodge #265, Warrensburg. WB David Key and SW Joe Grant watch.
On October 8, 2010, Brother Lee Dardick was awarded his 50-year certificate and jewel from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The Officers of Hope Lodge #251 AF&AM of Washington, Missouri, traveled to his residence in Clayton to conduct the ceremony and to present the prestigious award. Pictured are WM Dave Whittaker, Brother Lee Dardick and Treasurer Harold Lindauer. The photo was taken by JW Dan Neu.
Worshipful Master Bill Frazier, Lodge Secretary Rick Thompson and WB Rick Anderson, Past Master of Strafford Lodge #608, presented Brother Howard G. Graham his 50-year pin from the Grand Lodge of Missouri at his home on November 6, 2010. Pictured from Left to right are WB Rick Thompson, Brother Howard G. Graham, and WM Bill Frazier.
New Bloomfield Lodge #60 presented Brother Stuart Hunter his 50-year jewel and certificate for 50 years of faithful service to the Fraternity. Brother Mike Backer presented the pin and certificate.
On December 19, 2010 three members of Sheffield Lodge #625 along with the DDGM, RWB Dan Sewing, went to the home of Brother Perrie Slatier to present him with the 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Those pictured are, from the left: Master of Sheffield Lodge Bruce Olds, Brother Slatier, DDGM Dan Sewing, Secretary of Sheffield Lodge Cecil Wagers. The photograph was taken by WB Bill Shipman.
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POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.
We Meet Upon the Level Dr. E. Otha Wingo, PDDGL 38, FMLR otha.wingo@gmail.com The double stairway graphic, called The Steps of Freemasonry, appeared in the classic Masonic issue of Life Magazine (October 8, 1956), with over 50 Past Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island on the cover, sharing covers in 1956 with such notables as Douglas MacArthur, Harry Truman and Winston Churchill, along with Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly. The feature article, “The U.S. Masons: A Pictorial Essay in Color,” began with a 2-page spread of this chart. The illustration was designed by R. E. Bartlett, based on a painting by Everitt Henry, in the Museum of Our National Heritage, Lexington, MA. Seeing a framed print of this chart in my study reminded me of a statement which I wrote in my notebook forty-five years ago, after participating as a candidate in the Symbolic, York, and Scottish Rite degrees, and joining five Lodges of research. I wrote, “All Freemasons are on the same level.”
1866), notes: “It is in the symbolic Lodge, which consists of only three degrees, that every Mason is initiated, passed and raised, affiliated, or demitted, tried, punished, restored, or acquitted, enlightened, relieved or interred.” Compare the adoptive rites to a student who finishes one B.A. degree, then proceeds to study further in another, but related field, and completes a second bachelor’s degree. He has further light and knowledge–but no “higher degree.” An excellent analogy is particularly found in the field of theology. Seminary students once began their studies tion of degrees The level foundation with a bachelor’s degree as a prereqof the whole structure is the three uisite. After three years they were “Blue Lodge” or Symbolic Degrees. able to finish a Bachelor of DivinImagine another diagram, showing ity – another bachelor’s degree – on three foundational degrees, with all the same level as their prerequisite. the adoptive and affiliated degrees This practice took an interestrippling out from the Master Mason ing turn quite some years ago Degree like waves in an ever-widening gyre. As Thomas Smith Webb, Continued on page 43 in The Freemason’s Monitor (1797, As a Scottish Rite “Master of the Royal Arch of Solomon” or York Rite “Companion of the Royal Arch” I can look at this diagram of numbered and named steps in these traditions and see an apparent grada-