DECEMBER /JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019-2020 Rhode Island

freem aso n

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island Established 1791 Volume Forty-Five, Issue Three

th Freemasonry and the 50 Anniversary

of the Lunar Landing

See Article on Page 3

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Grand Master’s Message

Matching Grant Program…For those of you who are not aware of this program, Grand Lodge Charities is giving up to $1,000 per lodge for a charity event they host. I must say that I am a little

disappointed that we have left money on the table this past year, which runs from November 1 to October 31. If your lodge had a

charity event and did not take advantage of this generous offer, shame on you. Don’t fret, this program is not going away this year

and I hope that every lodge will take advantage of this between now and October 31 of next year.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)…Last year,

M∴W∴Carlson had hoped to have this device in every Lodge building with an equal hope that it is never needed. I agree with

M∴W∴Carlson on this initiative, so from now until the end of my

term, up to $1,000 will be given to those lodges who install this

device. All you need to do is:

• Buy the device.

Brother Kenneth F. Poyton • Have it installed in your lodge. • Have training on how to use it. This would make for a very Most Worshipful Grand Master good program at your meetings. The more brothers who know how to use is a good thing. Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, Most Worshipful Past Once you can prove that you have done the three requirements, Grand Masters, Brethren all, Grand Lodge will then send you a check.

I can’t think of any time in my life that I have been this busy. Masonic Assistance…As you know, the Officers Forum for each Between work, my duties as Grand Master, and the wedding of our district is on Masonic assistance. As of today, we have already had son, I am constantly doing something. Some days the demands of two presentations by W∴Melvin Silverio along with guidance from life can be a little hectic, however, when I leave the office and go Brothers Cate and Sholes. The purpose is to make sure the to a Masonic event, all that seems to go away. There are so many Wardens and Secretary (at a minimum) know how it works. events to attend as Grand Master such as Table Lodges, Annual Masonic Assistance is not something we do very often, which is Communications, Ladies Events, interesting programs at lodge why training is so important. meetings, and anniversary celebrations are just a few to mention. Unfortunately, I am not able to attend every event. Much of my time is going to meetings of the various Grand Lodge committees. Every committee from the Board of Managers, Public The Grand Marshal and I are looking forward to our travels the Relations, Building, Investigation, and Leadership has been next six months, as we travel to other Grand Jurisdictions, but working very hard to help manage this Grand Jurisdiction. Thank more especially as we travel this Grand Jurisdiction, to be with our you for your continued dedication to the Craft and this Grand brothers. Lodge. Is the word “this” or “that”? This past six months, the Assistant Grand Lecturers under the direction of the Right Building Repairs…I am pleased to report that contracts have Worshipful Grand Lecturer have held two meetings to discuss been signed to begin work on this Grand Lodge building as soon what is going on in their respective lodges. I have been to one of as possible. The work will be done in stages and since most of it them and have heard nothing but enthusiastic reviews! They have will be done outside, the weather will dictate when much of the more meetings scheduled as their Masonic light gets brighter and work will be done. brighter.

Investigation Committee…The Senior Grand Warden has been I wish to congratulate R.W. Brother Kaufman on his election as the th working with his committee to review their Investigation process. I 165 Grand Master for 2020 – 2021 and to W∴Silverio as you will attended some of their meetings and like the direction they are (continued on page 5) heading. Your Grand Lodge can help you with the process, but

ultimately it lies with the investigation committee along with the brethren from their lodge to convince the perspective member that FREEMASON they are the right fit. Rhode Island

Wardens Workshop…Under the direction of Most Worshipful (USPS 366-750) Iacobucci, the committee has been working very hard to come up with a meaningful presentation. It has taken more time than I Published by the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 thought, but it is a testimony to the brethren putting it together. Published in March, June, September, and December. Protocol & Constitution…We are in the third month of reading sections of Grand Lodge Protocol and the Constitution, selected POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: by me. Sometimes it can be long but that is our Constitution. You can have a short paragraph in the Constitution, but have a number The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island of decisions which must also be read. If you have a suggestion, 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 please let me know. Periodicals Paid in Providence, RI

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th New Concord, Ohio, and eventually served as a prominent United Freemasonry and the 50 Anniversary States senator and as a presidential candidate. He also came out of the Lunar Landing of retirement to fly on a space shuttle in 1998, in part to conduct

By: Brother Mark Dreisonstok research on spaceflight and aging; he currently holds the record

for being the oldest person ever to fly in space, being 77 years of (Originally published in the September/October 2019 issue of the Scottish Rite age at the time of flight. Journal Southern Jurisdiction, reprinted by permission of S. Brent Morris, Managing Editor.) Ill. Leroy Gordon Cooper Jr., 33 member of Carbondale Lodge

No. 92 of Carbondale, Colorado and the Orlando (Florida) Scottish Rite, piloted the “Faith 7” spacecraft on a 22-orbit mission which concluded Project Mercury in May of 1963. Cooper followed up his flight in August of the same year, commanding the two-man Gemini V mission. During Gemini V flight Brother Cooper, like Brother Aldrin six years later, carried a Masonic flag in his personal possessions during the mission.

Brother Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom, 32 was another Mason involved in the American space effort. Grissom piloted the Liberty Bell 7 spacecraft on July 21, 1961 during Project Mercury and later commanded the Gemini 3 mission. Brother Grissom came to represent heroism and bravery of the men who served as NASA’s early astronauts. Grissom and two fellow astronauts were tragically killed on January 27, 1967 by a flash fire during a launch “All must hope that someday America would penetrate the pad training session on the then-new Apollo I spacecraft, an event deepest secrets of that mysterious orb, the moon,” wrote Jules which led to extensive redesign of the launch vehicle and its safety Verne in his 1865 novel From Earth to the Moon. A little more than systems, upgrades for which Grissom himself had advocated prior 100 years after Verne published his science fiction adventure, to the accident. Grissom was a member of Mitchell Lodge No. 228 and the Valley of Orlando. Americans achieved this dream with astronauts Neil A. Armstrong,

Edwin E. “Buzz” Aldrin, Jr. who set foot on the moon on July 20, Lt. Col. (and Brother) Donn F. A Constituted Lodge 1969. What might not be widely known are the Masonic links to the Eisle was command module In the Moon’s moon landing fifty years ago and the early years of the NASA pilot on Apollo 7 on October Sea of Tranquility manned space program. 11, 1968; this was the first

Ill. Aldrin 33, the second man to step on the moon’s surface in the manned space mission of the Apollo program. Eisle’s lodge Apollo 11 lunar landing, was a member of Clear Lake Lodge No. was Luther B. Turner Lodge 1417 of Seabrook, Texas, as well as a member of the Scottish Rite bodies. Relatively unpublicized is the fact that Brother Aldrin No. 732 in Columbus, Ohio. Ill. Walter M. “Wally” Schirra, carried a double-headed eagle banner of the Scottish Rite, with an insert square and compasses and Grand Commander’s emblem, Jr., 33 also flew on Apollo 7, as well as on earlier Mercury on his space journey. Through the auspices and acting under special deputation of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of and Gemini missions. He was a member of Canaveral Texas, Tranquility Lodge No. 2000 was founded in the Sea of Albert Mackey writes in his Lexicon Tranquility, though “meeting in Texas until a proper lodge room is Lodge No. 339 at Cocoa of Freemasonry that “the Lodge is Beach, Florida and of the a representation of the universe, constructed on the moon.” (see sidebar) where, as the sun rules over the Orlando Scottish Rite bodies. Because of the day, the moon presides over the Like Brother Schirra, Ill. night.” Little could Mackey imagine historic feat of in writing these lines in the 1800s Brother Aldrin and Thomas P. Stafford, 33 also flew in the Gemini missions that one day the moon “which his fellow crew presides over the night” would be members, it would before serving as the host to a Masonic Lodge! In the first be easy to think of commander of the lunar- lunar landing, astronaut Buzz him as the one orbiting (but not landing) Aldrin, 33 established in the stead Mason synonymous Apollo 8. Stafford, believing of the Texas Grand Master, with space flight. In that color video would help Tranquility Lodge No. 2000 at the Sea of Tranquility on the moon. For fact, this would be the public understand the practical purposes, the Lodge has untrue; Freemasons space effort better, also helped develop a its annual meeting back on earth, in were involved in the Waco, Texas! While man has not American space miniaturized color television been on the moon since the early program every step camera system used on 1970s, today there is more talk of of the way that Apollo 8 through Apollo 14. moon colonization and lodge culminated with Neil He was a member of Western meetings might become a reality. Armstrong’s “one Star Lodge No. 138 in As the New Age Magazine wrote in December 1969: “When man small step for [a] Weatherford, Oklahoma. reaches new worlds, Masonry will man, one giant leap Brother Paul J. Weitz served be there.” for mankind.” as astronaut support crew for

Ill. John H. Glenn, Jr. 33, initially achieved fame as the third the Apollo 12 flight. He later flew in space on Skylab and the Space American to be launched into space and the first American to orbit Shuttle. He hailed from Lawrence Lodge No. 708 in Erie, the earth, doing so in Project Mercury’s “Friendship 7” spacecraft Pennsylvania. (continued on page 4) in February of 1962. Glenn hailed from Concord Lodge No. 688 in Page 4 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

(continued from Page 3, Freemasonry and the Lunar Landing) Brother Kleinknecht also notes how many of the early spacecraft had names, frequently chosen by the astronauts themselves,

ringing through and through with Masonic and American ideals:

“Freedom,” “Friendship,” and “Faith,” to name a few. Finally,

drawing upon perhaps the greatest achievement of the Apollo

program – the picture of the earth, containing all of humanity,

floating above the magnificent desolation of the lunar landscape –

our brother in 1969 reminds us of the common goals which are

shared between science, exploration, and faith; “All men can be

bound as one. In God, and only in Him, can mankind find the

unifying belief that will bind all races of all countries together.”

So mote it be! 

Questions, Questions?

By: R∴W∴Charles Angell

There are very few organizations that have so many unanswered questions as to its beginnings. Freemasonry tops them all. Yes, so many authors and books that claim they know the answers boggles the mind, take your pick. I have spent 56 years in the quarries of Masonic research and education with some of the best The “Buzz Aldrin Space Flag” hand-sewn by Inge Baum, librarian of the in the field and my answer is I have no idea. I go with concept as Supreme Council in 1969. we know it today, that it started in 1717 in London, England. Of

Edgar D. “Ed” Mitchell, a member of Artesia Lodge No. 28 in course, we all know that it is common knowledge that Masonry is Artesia, New Mexico, served on the crew of Apollo XIV, landing on much older and goes back many centuries. I believe it is one of the oldest in existence. the moon. However, his service in the moon program went beyond this; Mitchell served as part of the Apollo 13 Missions Operation The second question I get asked quite frequently, is how come Team, where he worked on ground-based simulations that helped when Freemasonry is outlawed and driven underground by bring the astronauts aboard the critically damaged Apollo 13 governments and others, it only takes a short time for spacecraft back to earth safely. He thus shared in the Presidential Freemasonry to appear? The answer, they were always there. Medal of Freedom awarded to the team for its efforts. Brother Like exuberance of seeds from a pomegranate that spread all Mitchell was also active in the Order of DeMolay. Later in his over, so did the Masons. When they were outlawed, they simply career, he became a source of controversy due to his belief in the went underground until the climate changed and they were no reality of UFOs and his work with the Institute of Noetic Sciences. longer banned. Russia and Germany are late examples of this as

Of course, not all Masons involved in America’s lunar program it only took a few months when the climate changed for have been astronauts. Many readers of The Scottish Rite Journal Freemasonry to reappear. I venture to say there are very few places in this world where there are no Freemasons. It is up to the will recognize the surname of ILL. Kenneth S. Kleinknecht, 33, individual Mason of today to draw his own conclusions of what is long-time Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite, true or false. Southern Jurisdiction. An engineer who worked on early manned Back to the original question. The spaceflight, Kenneth Kleinknecht, a member of Fairview Lodge answer my brothers along with many No. 699 in Fairview, Ohio, and the Pasadena (California) Scottish other questions, can be found in one Rite bodies, once penned articles on the space program for The book that does not reinvent the wheel New Age Magazine, as The Scottish Rite Journal was formally but contains many authoritative known. answers. This book is by an author that Brother James Edwin Webb was an Administrator at NASA from uses common sense and points out February 14, 1961 to October 7, 1968. He was a member of what is true or false.

University Lodge No. 409 at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and “Freemasonry for Dummies,” by Oxford Lodge No. 122 in Oxford, North Carolina. His work at NASA Brother Christopher Hodapp, hits the is planned to be memorialized in the soon-to-be-launched James nail on the head. Brother Hodapp Webb Space telescope, an orbiting telescope designed to replace, recently spoke at St. Johns Lodge and see even further into space than the powerful but aging No. 1 Providence a few months Hubble Space telescope. ago. His book should be in the hands

With so many Masons involved in the space program, it is little of every Freemason that wants to be wonder that Masons during the 1960s followed the space effort more than just a dues paying member with great interest. Indeed, the November 1969 issue of The New of the Craft. “Freemasonry for Age Magazine confirms: the issue is entitled “On the Moon” and Dummies” is one of the best- the cover features a space-suited Brother Aldrin posing next to the selling, receiving a Five-star rating US flag on the lunar surface. This issue also contains an article by from Amazon and Barnes and ILL. Kenneth Kleinknecht, 33 (as mentioned above, then serving Noble. An excellent way to start as Manager for the Command and Service Modules of the Apollo your life-long journey up those winding program) called “Freemasonry in the Space Age.” Yet even in this stairs of light and knowledge as a Freemason.  moment of American technological triumph, our Masonic brother reminds us of the need to remember things eternal: “Freemasonry (Available for loan from the Grand Lodge teaches eternal, everlasting truths which no amount of scientific circulating library) development can change or alter….”

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(continued from Page 2, Grand Master’s Message) in different ways, so I did the same. Then along came a feller, become the next Grand Marshal. You will find that many of your guess he belongs to the church, cause I heard them call him brothers will offer to help you succeed as Grand Master, take them Deacon, he lit candles, can’t figure out why he did it, cause it was up on their offer. Noon time on May 18 will be here before you plenty light in the room. Then the Mister told someone to tell the know it. feller outside the lodge was opened, but he didn’t seem to care, cause he didn’t come in anyway. When I was Installed Grand Master, I mentioned that I believe the lodge room is a sacred place and we are not guys in a lodge room. The boss called the feller at the desk secretary and told him to do Now that we are halfway through my term, I have directed the some reading. This was the first time I saw a real secretary. I once Grand Lecturer and his staff to start paying closer attention to seen a story in a magazine where a man ran away with a make sure we are addressing each other in the proper manner. secretary, couldn’t imagine who would want to run away with that Remember, if you can get through a meeting and get it right, I will old man and for what. be buying pizza for your next rehearsal. The Mister got up and said the lodge was open and that he was

A couple of years ago, I had a conversation with the wife of a looking for business, but I didn’t think anybody gave him any, member of a lodge that in my opinion is doing “very well”. We though a few of them did some talking a bit about sickness and talked about how ladies were always well represented and very other things. After a while the Mister told the son and father that supportive. I asked, “why was she so supportive of her husband we was to have some refreshments, then the junior once hit his going to lodge so often”? She replied that “without a doubt, I know hammer and we stood up and he told us about getting that if something happened to my husband or me at two o’clock in refreshments. I waited around a bit to see what we get to eat and the morning, all it would take is one call to one brother and in a drink, but seems they plumb forgot about it all, cause I didn’t see very short time, my house would be full of Masons to do what anybody get anything so I got up and went home. Guess I won’t needed to be done.” I ask you this question, does every lady from go up there anymore, cause everybody’s all mixed up like myself! your lodge feel the same way? Are you sure? Author Unknown

My Brothers, as I travel both in and out of this Grand Juresdiction, Confidence and Its Role in Strengthening I am more convinced than ever that as Maya Angelou wrote in the Human Family Poem, that, “we are more alike my friends, than we Freemasonry By: W∴Stephan H. Saraidarian, P.M. are unalike.” In closing, to all our brothers and your families, Michael, Patty, Colleen, and I wish you a wonderful Christmas, Hanukah and a healthy and prosperous New Year.  We underestimate the value of confidence. Yet a lack of confidence can keep you from achieving even the simplest of

Fraternally yours, goals. Be it trying to get a promotion, trying to get the attention of a special someone, venturing out and experiencing new things, or Kenneth F. Poyton speaking up and expressing ideas, a lack of confidence will stifle Grand Master your personal growth. As a fraternity we often place a high value on knowledge and understanding, but little to no value on the soft My First Visit to the Lodge subtle skill (and it is a skill) of confidence. Today we have all the Submitted by Brother Douglas ‘Lee’ Ashbaugh knowledge in the world at our fingertips through computers and

Manchester Lodge No. 12 smartphones, but without the confidence to employ it, that knowledge is for naught. We have many brothers within this It was just three weeks ago that I became a member of Deep jurisdiction with grand ideas of how we can improve the fraternity. Hollow Lodge No. 111. That night I was so mixed up about what Yet while many claim a lack of time to help implement these ideas happened that I decided to go to the meeting to see just what and as the reason for a lack of execution, I believe what is really lacking how things are done there. is simple confidence. A lack of confidence can sit unseen as a

I got through the milking early, fed the hens, saw that my pigs were weight upon the shoulders. It is easily compounded by a constant penned up, then went to shave and again put on my blue suit that barrage of “can’t”, “won’t”, “it’s been tried”, and “it’s never going to Uncle Dan gave me for Confirmation, cranked up old Henry and work.” So, in the end, what you have is a brother who has been started on the 29 mile trip to the lodge. crushed into despair believing that his grand idea is a non-starter, so why take the first step, and that once thoughtful idea is lost to Little while after I got there all the men came in, sat down on the the belief that Freemasonry as it is now is the best we can hope to benches and looked kind of quiet. Then a feller at the end of the achieve. room, sitting a bit higher than me, wearing a High Hat, hit a hammer on something, said everybody should watch how they The most common definition of confidence is a feeling of self- were clothed …. I knew he meant me, so I fixed my tie and took assurance arising from one's appreciation of one's own abilities or off my rubbers. Seems he must be the boss of the outfit, cause he qualities. That makes confidence a very internal and personal gave orders to a lot of men. There was a father and son there who thing. It’s simply how you feel about yourself and your abilities. had something to do with it. I know one was the junior and the Now consider this, the biggest difference between confidence and other the senior, I can’t remember their first names, but I think their arrogance is someone else’s opinion of your perception of your last name was Warden. abilities. Put another way, if you feel you can accomplish some- thing you are confident. However, if you feel you can, and I feel Then along came a feller with a long black stick in his hand, he you can’t, you can be seen as arrogant. One could argue that you shook hands with everybody, then they would stand up and blow are arrogant until you prove you can do what you claim. Yet even in his ear. When he got to me, I shook hands and blew in his ear, then you could still be seen as arrogant if the response of others but he didn’t like it very much. It filled me with confusion. Then the to your success is negative, or if your response to your success is feller, I think they call him ‘Mister’ asked if anyone knew me and indelicate. It is a very muddled field to play in when you really start they did, so that was alright. After that, an old man got up and said to dig into it and clarity in one situation does not lead to clarity for some nice prayers and we all sang a song which was pretty good. all. The bottom line is that in practice, confidence isn’t strictly

While we were still standing everybody started moving their hands (continued on page 6) Page 6 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

(continued from Page 5, Confidence and its Role in Freemasonry) support to achieve lodge goals and their confidence will grow with each attempt regardless of successes or failures. defined. It is subjective. We all work differently when we believe This of course isn’t where it all ends. The burden isn’t solely on the we will succeed, particularly when compared to situations where lodge. In truth, some of our brothers are arrogant. Early in my we only hope we will succeed, or worse, where we think we might Masonic career I would say I was guilty of that. A few members fail. How you approach, and work through an issue is a key factor told me I was overconfident. For the record, I don’t personally in one’s success or failure. We as individuals often reward certain believe in overconfidence and as such, I really didn’t know how to people by calling them confident because they fit our ideal of what respond to that kind of a comment other than to see it as a polite a leader should be. In the same vein we punish others by calling way of saying I was being arrogant. Over the ensuing years I them arrogant because they don’t fit our archetype of how a leader learned a few points that I think can help anyone navigate the should look, act, or behave. This is where your lodge and your narrow pass between confidence and arrogance both in and out of brothers can make all the difference in the world. lodge. Confidence is born out of the permission others grant us to be First point, practice deference. Deference gives you a perspective confident. If every time you feel confident you are labeled as and understanding of how and why others may view you in a arrogant, eventually your behavior will change. Doubt will seep into certain light. Imagine you have put forward a proposal and after the cracks in your armor. Surely, if it is repeated so often it must your presentation someone comments “we tried that.” You, in hold some truth, right? It is at that point when you will either accept response dismiss his comment out of hand and continue to push being labeled as arrogant, leaning in and wearing it like a badge your proposal. Now think about how your actions have made that of honor or you will shrink from it retreating from the common circle person feel, disrespected, talked down to, minimized. Your to a place where you won’t garner so much attention and/or dismissal of his experience gained you nothing but the appearance criticism. If you lean into it, you may decide that you are better than of being arrogant. You could have instead practiced a little everyone else. You may begin to feel that the label “arrogant” is deference and asked questions about his perspective on your the product of small minds who don’t see what you are capable of proposal. How did he do it? What else was going on at that time? and perhaps, as you are constantly wrestling against its negative Were there obvious reasons the approach didn’t work, etc. Then connotations in order to make progress, you will start to damage you might have a better understanding of the nature of your your relationships with others through the adversarial way you find proposal and you will have given your plan the maximum potential yourself speaking. If you shrink from it, you may change your for success. behavior to avoid the appearance of arrogance. You may start pumping the brakes on thoughts and ideas you believe are Second point, It’s OK to be wrong and/or ask for help. When you valuable, and as your confidence wanes, you may stop offering up realize you are in over your head, do not fake ability just to your ideas or volunteering your actions for fear of appearing too maintain an appearance of confidence. I have seen this done forward. You will essentially take yourself out of the conversation many times and nothing could be a bigger waste of time, be it as you will begin to believe that you are not a leader, that you are yours or everyone else’s. A confident person is not afraid to admit not as capable as you think, and when you don’t believe in yourself to a mistake. They are not afraid to admit when they need or your abilities you make the mountain of success a much steeper assistance. Instead they view these things as opportunities for climb. education and growth.

As human beings, and particularly as Masons we must grant each Third point, don’t cut others down, particularly when it’s only to other the permission to be confident. Every idea is not a winning build yourself up. Everyone has opinions. Everyone faces the idea and not everyone will succeed in everything they do. In those issues of their lives in their own way. Instead of belittling their cases, brothers are expected to whisper good council, but we must opinions or questioning their choices why not give them every still foster the belief that everyone is deserving of a seat at the table opportunity to rise-up to whatever problem is before them by and a voice in the conversation. If we cannot exemplify this within supporting your brothers within the length of your cable tow. It our own lodges how can our brothers be expected to carry it into takes a lot less than you think. the often harsh and adversarial world of the profane? How can Masons succeed in being pillars of the community or have the These simple changes in attitude and behavior can be all it takes strength to be shining examples of morality without confidence in to see a rise in confidence for yourself, for those around you, and themselves, their actions, and the support of their Masonic for your lodge in general. This newfound confidence can then community? How can a brother have a positive impact on his lodge serve as evidence that our brotherhood can help us overcome when his lodge is having a negative impact on him? How can a even the largest of obstacles in our quest for personal betterment place we deem a sacred retreat of friendship and virtue be allowed and further cements our Craft as a sacred retreat of friendship and to foster such defeatism? Small voices can speak big things if we virtue from the world at large, thereby, strengthening our faith in take the time to listen, and with a little support from a friend and our decision to join this ancient and honorable society. When brother, confidence like any skill can be cultivated, practiced, and people notice this change and ask what inspired it, well that is the improved. best advertisement the Craft could ever hope for. 

Our Masonic community must actively promote the confidence of its members. It can be as simple as this: be encouraging! Learn to say “can” instead of “can’t”, “will” instead of “won’t,” “let’s try it” New Candidate instead of “it’s been tried,” and “it could work” instead of “it won’t work.” If you have brothers tell you they “can’t,” support them with At a military lodge in Ireland, the brethren were delighted that “you can.” When they sit quietly in meetings telling their ideas to their Commander in Chief had agreed to join the Craft. At the only one or two brothers, those brothers in turn need to speak up initiation ceremony, the two deacons responsible for the proudly and say, “my brother has an idea.” Support one another. colonel being initiated were both ordinary soldiers in the unit. Breed confidence in your lodge. Yes, as some must lead so should The secretary chose to record this historic event in the others follow, but that does not equate to a leader having a minutes as ‘one of those rare occasions when the candidate monopoly on good ideas. The greatest achievement a leader can was led around the lodge by his “privates”.  attain is to help his followers fulfill their potential. Give them your ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 7

Beyond the reality many lodges are facing that they can no longer adequately finance the maintenance and upkeep of their buildings, Does History Hold the Key to Our Membership Decline? is the fact that as we seek to reverse the trend of declining membership, are we positioned to attract and retain good men or By: M∴W∴Charles Yohe, PGM - Connecticut are we “shooting ourselves in the foot” by pricing membership too

Some years ago, among a stack of papers and materials from a low? lodge that had ceased to exist, I found a small gem entitled The Currently, the leadership in several Grand Lodge jurisdictions is Masonic Year – 1924. This diminutive book is filled with numerous embarking on marketing campaigns designed to increase tidbits garnered from various Masonic publications of the day. It awareness of the Masonic fraternity and to attract men to seek also provided membership statistics for Grand Lodges, Grand membership. Have they thought through the process completely Chapters, Grand Councils, and Grand Commanderies. It is or are they setting themselves up for another failure? If our local interesting to note that the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island reported lodges are not operating in a way that delivers on the “promised 16,257 members for the year 1923 while neighboring Connecticut experience” that the marketing campaign touts, the result will likely had 39,689 and Massachusetts reported 110,018. I have little be a revolving door where new Masons are initiated on one side doubt that current Grand Masters of those jurisdictions would be and a few years later, will exit on the other side. ecstatic to realize membership numbers approaching 50% of those reported amounts. Some of the anecdotes from 1923 indicate that in almost 100 years, Grand Lodges have done precious little to correct the local Despite the robust numbers of Masons throughout the United lodge deficiencies that likely result in the large number of demits States at that time, and keeping in mind that annual dues and suspensions for non-payment of dues that Grand Lodges represented a much larger proportion of a man’s wages, it is continue to experience. Here are a few that may sound like 2019. interesting to read some of the perceived issues that were limiting not only the number of members that Freemasonry was attracting, “A Back to the Lodge” movement is reported from South Australia. but more especially the lack of members who actively attended The idea is by a personal canvass to seek out the members who lodge. (Does that sound familiar?) Remember, this was 1923. have ceased attendance, ascertain their reasons for the apparent There was no television, no computers, and no internet. There was indifference and induce them to again come to the no Thursday night or Monday night football nor were there rock communications. A laudable undertaking, beyond question. But concerts to attend. Prohibition was in full swing and would remain until the meetings of a lodge can offer to the average man an so until its repeal in 1933. attraction to compete with other sources of entertainment or instruction, pleadings or reproofs will be met in vain. When a lodge According to the IRS, in 1923, there were fewer than eight million will seek to really interest and inform the brethren, making taxpayers. Six million of those earned between $1000 and $4000 attendance a matter of value for the time spent, then there will be per year. There were a reported 2,853,000 Masons that year no cause for complaint. That so many now fail to attend is an according to the Masonic yearbook. Do the math and the indictment of the programs that are considered sufficient.” – conclusion one reaches is the average Mason earned between National Trestle Board, August 1923 $1000 and $4000 per year. Although the yearbook does not indicate the average dues charged by Grand Lodges, the following “Men of intelligence and real value to the organization remain away may shed some light on what they were: “If we charged $25.00 a from the meetings because they are satiated and even bored by year as minimum dues in Michigan we wouldn’t be able to initiate the ceaseless reiteration of degree work, with nothing to inspire all of our successful applicants if we worked six nights a week. new thought or urge to productive work for men.” – National Trestle Men want the thing that is hard to get. It’s human nature. That’s Board, March 1923 why, we believe, some lodges barely exist on three or four dollars a year dues.” “The Craft has become an animated interrogation point. It is crying for knowledge, information, and education. Will we arise to the Further, the Illinois Freemason, September 1923 reported demand, or will we give them a stone when they are crying for “Throughout the United States there is a prevailing opinion that bread?” – William F. Kuhn, PGM, Masonic Tidings, April 1923 Masonic dues are entirely too low and that they should be increased to a point where the dues will sustain the lodge. It is “Masons are admonished not to use Masonry for personal or pointed out that where dues are low, the lodges are compelled to financial gain. That is why some jurisdictions forbid the use of the capitalize on candidates and as a result, resort to methods to get square and compasses on business related cards, invoices, work which are not altogether legitimate. It is pointed out that the signage, etc. Masons can benefit by applying Freemasonry’s average man will pay $100 per year dues in his club and will resist teachings to their dealings in life. This too was addressed in 1923: the small payment which a lodge frequently asks. The general “Men are not expected to take their business, politics or religion belief is that Masonic dues will have to be increased to meet the into Freemasonry, but they are expected to take their growing responsibility of the Craft.” Freemasonry into business, politics and religion because Freemasonry is a set of constructive principles.” – Illinois Here we are nearly a century later and my lodge dues are $85 per Freemason, February 1923 year, $65 of which goes directly to the Grand Lodge. Are you “The purpose of Freemasonry is to educate the individual to do the kidding me? Do you really think you can properly maintain a right thing and if Masonry is to function to the point of greatest building and send regular mailings to the members on $20 per efficiency, we must as individual members, give the best that we year? My lodge is not a “wealthy” lodge. In fact, recently the small have to it, and become an active part of the whole in promoting the cushion we had has been depleted due to a merger with a principles it promulgates.” – Clark W. McKenzie, PGM Tyler- neighboring lodge whose building had bankrupted them and is Keystone, January 1923 now doing similar damage to my lodge. Where Masonic lodges should be conducting fundraising in order to support worthy “An eminent Masonic writer has said: ‘I would not give much for charitable causes, most are fundraising to support their own your Freemasonry unless it can be seen. Lamps do not talk, but operations. (continued on page 8)

Page 8 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

(continued from Page 7, Does History Hold the Key?) that, it was an entire social culture. This was contrary to the typical impression that our society has held over the years. Our they shine. A lighthouse sounds no drum, it beats no gong and yet impressions of hobos were solitary wanderers and social outcasts far over the water its friendly spark is seen by the mariner. So, let living a purely lazy life riding the rails and walking with the stick your actions shine out your Freemasonry. Let the main sermon of and bag over their shoulder. They were considered tramps or your life be illustrated by your conduct, and it shall not fail to be bums and most often chased and run out. In the course of my illustrious.’” – Masonic Herald, April 1923 research, I found an interesting article written by Mark Stopera. I believe a comprehensive study of history can provide 2019 Mark decided to leave his comfortable life and explore the life of a Freemasonry with the information and tools necessary to reverse hobo. He documented his travels and the many aspects of the the debilitating trend of declining membership, if only we and our hobo life. To say the least, it was fascinating. Masonic leaders are willing to study and apply its teachings. “Whenever you have to stop to think whether a thing is right or wrong, you may be pretty sure it is wrong.” – Tyler-Keystone, August 1923 

A Story from Milwaukee By: M∴W∴Charles Yohe, P.G.M. - Connecticut

In late August, I attended the biennial portrayal of the 33rd Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. There were several thousand Scottish Rite Masons and their wives in attendance, and all were looking for breakfast or lunch at establishments near their hotels. Unfortunately, no one apparently alerted local businesses to the fact that there were going to be an unusual number of folks looking for meals.

Many of us descended on a small restaurant, Build A Breakfast – Build A Burger. The wait staff was overwhelmed and one lady who was acting as a hostess listed several of our names on a waiting list and then disappeared. More Masons entered through the front door creating a traffic jam. Another waitress finally came to the hostess stand, in an effort to clear people from blocking the entrance/exit and without consulting the waiting list, she seated another couple.

My wife and I waited patiently and about 15 minutes later, we finally were seated as well. As we walked past the couple who was Before we delve into the hobo life, let us first remove the stigma seated ahead of us, the brother stopped me and expressed his attached to them. Hobos are penniless wanderers or vagabonds concern that he and his wife were seated out of turn. I replied that and certainly not bums or tramps. Hobos take extreme offence to it wasn’t his fault and that we were okay with what had been an be associated with bums and tramps. Tramps only work when they honest mistake. have too, and bums don’t work at all. Hobos, on the other hand, travelled as migratory workers to find work. Maybe you are not To the restaurant’s credit, as soon as they realized there was an convinced so let’s start from the beginning. unusual number of diners, they called in additional wait staff. My wife and I ordered our breakfasts and were waiting for the food to Hobos first came on the scene at the end of the Civil War. They arrive when our waitress came to the table and informed us that were discharged soldiers who were penniless and jumped the the other couple, who had been seated first, had paid for our meals trains to catch a ride home. Many found that their homes were as well as their own and that we would not be given a bill. I got up destroyed, and families gone. Some families killed and others and went over to the other couple, introduced myself and were uprooted, so the destitute soldiers decided to hop the train attempted to plead my case, but brother Stevan Anselini and his and head to the Northwest Territory to stake out a new life. On wife, Nancy, were adamant that they wanted to do something to their way, in order to survive they took any odd jobs they could find rectify the mistake. and therefore became migratory workers. While travelling they

Barbara and I finished our meals and once again stopped by the shared bonds of friendship with other migrant wayward soldiers table where the Anselinis were seated. We chatted for a while similar to the camaraderie while in active duty and so, the culture before leaving to go our separate ways. The encounter of “Life on the Iron Trail” began. underscored the importance of living our Masonry. It’s not the titles or the regalia that make us Masons – it’s how we interact with those around us! 

The American Hobo Fraternal Life on the Iron Trail

By: M∴W∴Peter Iacobucci, P.G.M.

Sometime ago as I was researching symbols for a new lecture, I accidently came across a picture of hobo symbols. Finding this of interest, I decided to research it further. To my surprise, I found out that hobos used symbols to secretly communicate to each other as they travelled around the country. It became evident that the (continued on page 16) hobo lifestyle was similar to a fraternal organization. Better than ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 9

thanks also goes to Brother Jay Cox for a delicious lunch and for Report from the Masonic Districts preparing a special meal for Lady Beth, it was much appreciated.

Two weeks after Washington Lodge’s Annual Meeting, I had the METRO DISTRICT honor of accompanying W∴Melvin E. Silverio, the president of the RWDouglas J. Grant, DDGM Spanish language Masonic Club Libertad as we traveled to

Brethren, Cambridge, MA with several brothers of our Jurisdiction to visit Logia America, one of the Spanish speaking lodges in the state of The holidays are upon us and we are celebrating one of the best Massachusetts. What we did not expect was that it also happened times of the year. It’s a time when family, friends, and even casual to be the meeting that the District Deputy made his official visitation acquaintances are treated with a little more friendliness and joy to the lodge. than other times. It is also a time when we have the opportunity to try and improve ourselves by making New Year resolutions that in November started off with a bang as W∴Brandt and I were most cases, don’t last for more than a few weeks. But at least we welcomed by Adelphoi Lodge, No. 33 at our DDGM Visitation to are trying to improve. the lodge. W∴Bill Pennoyer presented a wonderful program on York Rite Masonry and the food and camaraderie was terrific. I personally am not a big fan of making resolutions at the beginning of the year. I believe that if I am doing something that needs to be It’s always great to be with our Grand Master, M∴W∴Kenneth F. changed for the better, I should probably change it now. If I wait, Poyton. We had the opportunity to do so at his visitation to the then I will probably make matters worse during the time that I Central District at Manchester Lodge, No. 12 in mid-November. postponed the improvement. I knew that I needed to improve, but The very next day we were all at the Semi-Annual Communication I waited until it was convenient for me to do it. That’s like of Grand lodge followed by the Fall Festival that evening. It was intentionally running a red light and then saying that you will try to quite a packed 24+ hours with a little respite for sleep, but so worth do better next time. You probably should have made the attempt it to be with our brothers and partners. to stop when you saw the light turn yellow. We finished off the month with St. Andrew’s Lodge’s Annual Such is the way we should live as Masons. We should constantly Communication that took place the day after Thanksgiving. At the look in the mirror and see the things that we need to improve upon request of incoming W∴Bill Gervais, R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant and then do it. Although we may not be successful with the installed the officers of his mother lodge. As we all know, outcome the first few times we try, we need to put the effort in to R∴W∴Doug’s ritual work is impeccable, and it is always a treat to have any chance of success. To know that you need to improve in watch him work in the East. Congratulations to all the brothers and a certain thing is the first step towards improvement. It is not easy especially to W∴John Barsoum on his very successful tenure in to improve things that have become bad habits. However, if you the East. constantly work at it, you will make the change. The month of December is always a very busy one with all the We have been given several guides to work with and I don’t believe holiday season events that we enjoy. The month will start off with that they will ever be out of date. If we all go back and read them the Grand Master’s visitation to the East Bay District which will be occasionally, I believe that we can all achieve the improvements held at Adelphoi Lodge, No. 33 this year. The program for the that we will need to make. evening proves to be very informative as well as the opportunity to be with one another. Wishing you all a happy holiday season and an ever-improving new year! May the blessings of heaven rest upon us and all regular At the month’s half-way point, I will have the honor of Masons.  congratulating W∴Doug Siple on a very successful year in the East

EAST BAY DISTRICT when we are present for St. John’s, No. 1 Annual Communication. It will also be a great opportunity to congratulate and affirm all of RW André H. Faria, Jr., DDGM the officers being installed that evening. Sometimes it is such a blessing to have a small jurisdiction like our Once the New Year comes around, Brandt and I will be busy with own. It enables us to travel not too far to see our brothers and installations in January 2020. It will be Adelphoi Lodge on the first break bread with them. We enjoy the opportunity of visiting each week of the year, St. Alban’s Lodge on the second week and St. other’s lodges and not having to wait extended periods of time Paul’s Lodge at the end of the month. We will congratulate before we see one another again. What a gift to live and work in a W∴Pennoyer, W∴Tim Pray and W∴David C. Lavery for all of their small state and reap big benefits! efforts over the past year and celebrate their successes. It will be

an opportunity to welcome new lines of officers and pledge our It was truly an honor to present W∴Christian Lopez his Past support as they continue their own personal and collective Master’s Certificate at Washington Lodge’s Annual Meeting in Masonic journeys. October. We were joined by his father-in-law, a Past Master from the State of Delaware who came to congratulate his son-in-law and As February approaches, winter no doubt will continue its fury, but be with him during this important meeting. W∴Lopez’s wife and we will begin to long for the spring air of March and the emergence mother-in-law were also present to support him. Sometimes our of new life. While we can plan for the future and plan we must, we fraternity is also our family which further strengthens the bonds we cannot ever “live” there, since the future only exists as a mental have one with another. The Annual Communication was also an construct. Our lives always take place in a perpetual “now”, it is the opportunity to congratulate W∴Lance Ratkowski and his line of only time to live, this moment. May we as brothers of light always officers as they embark upon a new Masonic year in Warren. I also be “present” in the “now” to be there for each other, for our families, want to extend a heartfelt word of thanks to W∴Jason M. Nystrom our communities, and all whose lives we may have the privilege to for assisting as GMC for the meeting as W∴Brandt was stuck in touch. On behalf of W∴Brandt and our ladies Beth and Mary, we Arkansas that morning. It was also great to see his wife Kathy as extend to each and every one of you a very special holiday season well as R∴W∴Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr. and his lovely wife Blanca who filled with blessings, joy, love and peace.  came to support the brothers of Washington. A special word of (Report on the Masonic Districts continued on page 11) Page 10 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

Interesting Historical Facts of Freemasonry In Rhode Island

Selected from a review of the Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge 6th Installment

3/19/1896 Disastrous fire consumed Freemasons Hall, Grand Lodge Circulating Library Providence, destroying entire contents of building except certain records and valuable items in large safe. Our collection of Masonic books is composed of some of the most popular titles in print today. Included are Masonic fiction by such 5/18/1898 St. Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence new altar authors as Dan Brown, David Brody, Scott Wolter, Brad Meltzer, etc. consecrated by Grand Lodge, exact duplicate of original altar constructed by Lodge and used at 125th anniversary of Lodge. The books are located in the Grand Lodge office lobby and can be

Original was destroyed in fire. (Still in use today at Grand borrowed Monday-Friday from 8:30AM to 4:00PM.

Lodge.) The following are the requirements for borrowing:

6/24/1898 Freemasons Hall rebuilt. All apartments were

dedicated. ➢ Current lodge dues card must be presented.

➢ 30-day time period. 5/15/1899 Adopted; lectures and work of degrees will not be

displayed with various films or with costumes or robes. ➢ 1 book title at a time.

8/25/1892 Masonic Veterans Association of Rhode Island ➢ Books must be checked out with and returned to the office

established. staff or library staff.

➢ Email address for borrower must be on file. 6/24/1901 Photograph of Brother and President William

McKinley displayed in Grand Lodge. Made a Mason in Hiram Lodge No. 21 Winchester, Virginia 5/1/1865; Fellow Craft Please also consider writing a book review on any title that is borrowed for submission to the RI Freemason. 5/2/1865; Master Mason 5/3/1865. At time of his death he was

a member of Eagle Lodge No. 431, Canton, Ohio. Received Capitular Degrees and Orders of Templary in 1883 and 1884. Little Known Fact He was wounded 9/13/1901 at Pan American Exposition, New York; died 9/14/1901. It has been said that many years ago in Scotland a new game was invented. The rules stated: ‘Gentlemen Only, Ladies 11/18/1901 Adopted resolution, every subordinate lodge will Forbidden’. Thus, the word ‘GOLF’ entered the English display the American Flag at every communication. language. To be continued.

From the Editor RI Freemason Dear Brethren,

Deadlines I thank everyone who submitted reports and articles for this issue. Unfortunately, we did not have space for everyone’s submissions. Where appropriate, I have saved the material for our next issue. As a reminder please submit your material for future issues before the

deadline date. Space is on a first come, first serve basis. As the deadline approaches, there Publishing Schedule is less and less space available and your material may not be published if received on or after the deadline date. The Rhode Island Freemason is A few simple guidelines are in order for submissions; published four times based on a Masonic calendar year. Deadlines for submissions • Please send all articles as MS Word, Word Perfect or Text documents are listed below for each issue. • Photographs or illustrations should be sent as Jpeg, Tiff or Bitmap files

• Please no PDF files, they will not be accepted. The issues will be published as follows: • The deadline for each issue is firm and submissions are on a first come, first served

basis, the sooner your article arrives the more likely it is to be included DECEMBER/JANUARY/FEBRUARY • Please send files to [email protected] as well as Deadline: November 1st [email protected] addresses.

MARCH/APRIL/MAY Fraternally, st Deadline: February 1 Brother Richard Lynch Editor: R∴W∴Richard F. Lynch

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST st Associate Editors: M∴W∴Leon C. Knudsen, PGM Deadline: May 1 R W Jack Anderson ∴ ∴ Millie T. Hallstrom SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER/NOVEMBER st Deadline: August 1 Editorial Advisior: R∴W∴Ronald P. Reed R∴W∴Grand Secretary

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 11

NORTHERN DISTRICT W∴Earl Mann - Ionic Lodge No. 28

R∴W∴Rick Baccus, DDGM W∴Jeffrey Appt - Manchester Lodge No.12 W∴Robert Fish - Daylight Lodge No. 48 “Far, We’ve been traveling Far, W∴Patrick Connor - Harmony Lodge No. 9 Without a Home, But Not without a Star… Each Lodge has had some pretty amazing (now) Past Masters. “America”’ Neil Diamond These humble Past Masters would tell you the success of their My Brothers; lodge was greatly attributed to their supportive, diligent, enthusiastic line of officers. Therefore, thank you goes to all of the The Northern Masonic District is not without a Star. past officers of the Central District, but particularly the Past Brother Rick Lynch and I along with our ladies; Kay and Patti have Masters; W∴Bob Izzy, W∴David DiCecco, W∴Gary Paul, and had the pleasure of installing the officers of Friendship Lodge No. W∴Charlie Wilkinson. You have risen to occasions when your 7 and Lafayette Lodge No. 47. My congratulations go out to lodge needed you the most. I’m sure you had a few sleepless W∴Robert Young and W∴David Becker and their officers for the nights as you pondered your decisions or crammed to learn ritual upcoming year. All of us on the installing suite wish you the and your lodge is the better because of it. All of you have, in greatest success in the upcoming year. particular ways, earned your rite to be called “Worshipful Master.” Additionally, we have had our district visitation to both Roger Williams Lodge No. 32 and Morning Star Lodge No. 13. The upcoming months are sure to bring many opportunities to W∴Michael Farina treated the suite to a dissertation by Brother share time with your brethren. The newly installed Masters, and Matthew “Doc” Perry on his Currahee Project to benefit veterans. Officers of the Central District have been planning and preparing Thank you, Doc for what you are doing, your enthusiasm is interesting and fun programs for you to enjoy. Be sure to look for contagious. W∴Skip Priestley entertained us at our visitation to these programs in the lodge notices, then attend an event. Some Morning Star Lodge No. 13 with a reptile demonstration by Fellow of us have been away from lodge for so long we’ve forgotten the Craft Brother Mike Taylor. Needless to say, I have eaten more reason why, others may have valid reasons. Brothers I am here to reptiles than I wished to embrace at Brother Taylor’s presentation! tell you the Freemasonry that you know, and love, is right in front of you, be part of it. If it’s been a while since you’ve attended lodge, I recently read an article publicized in the Providence Journal I encourage you to reconnect, come out and see the old faces and entitled, “Men and Their Harmful Addictions” by Michael Morse. He meet some new. To our newest brothers, I look forward to meeting describes a 70-year old lady who he helped at Lowes. She was you on the level. asking for help in buying a garden hose. She said her husband always took care of these things, but now she was on her own. Upcoming Central District Visitations: After years of illness he died. She tried everything to help him, but his addiction to sugar finally killed him. He ate candy whenever he January 10, 2020 - Manchester Lodge No.12 could and stashed the wrappers so she could not find them. “I just February 8, 2020 - Ionic Lodge No. 28 wish he would have been honest with me” she said. “I found empty March 3, 2020 - Harmony Lodge No. 9 *Officer Forum food wrappers in his car when I went to sell it.” So, we as Masonic April 13, 2020 - Daylight Lodge No.48 brothers should act upon the level, because a time will come when all distinctions but that of goodness shall cease; and death, the Jay and I would like to thank you all for your continued support. grand leveler of human greatness shall reduce us to the same May you and your families have a relaxing holiday season to gear state. up for all the exciting things to come your way in the New Year. 

Brother Rick and I look forward to installing the officers of Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 8 and Morning Star Lodge No 13. Additionally, SOUTHERN DISTRICT RWEric E. Grist., DDGM we will have the pleasure of visiting Friendship Lodge No. 7 and Mt. Moriah No. 8. The visitation to Mt. Moriah Lodge will be the John and I hope you and your families are entering the holiday District Officer Forum. We look forward to the fellowship we season happy and healthy. experience at all these events. We recently completed the first real “work” of this journey by As always, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] conducting the officer installations at Hope Lodge and Charity or at 401-413-6281 to let us know of any lodge events Rick and I Lodge. Thanks to the brethren for coming out in force to support should attend.  each of these lodges. I am looking forward to watching John boom

“My country ‘tis of thee, sweet land of liberty; out the “proclamation” 22 more times! Congratulations to Of thee I sing; of thee I sing.” W∴Halderman of Hope Lodge and to W∴Tavares on their “America” Neil Diamond ascension to the East. Well, to be honest, W∴Halderman hasn’t

left the East in a few years but I expect that will not be the case CENTRAL DISTRICT next year. We also had W∴Earl Mann, Jr. the “newest and eldest” RW Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr., DDGM Worshipful Master in the Rhode Island jurisdiction in attendance. John and I are truly lucky to have so much support. Greetings from the Central District, We are looking forward to the upcoming Special Ladies’ Luncheon

at Franklin Lodge and our official visitation to Mt Vernon Lodge. It’s hard to believe the 2019 calendar year is ending in a couple of Sadly, these events will be in the rear view mirror by the time you weeks. Time really does seem to accelerate as the years pass. are reading this. Fortunately, there are many more events planned Equally as quick is the Masonic year, as of November 23 all for the coming months. We will be conducting Franklin Lodge’s and Central District lodges have newly installed masters and officers. Mt. Vernon’s annual communications in January and February Congratulations, to all the Central District Officers, but particularly 2020 respectively. our newly installed Worshipful Masters: (continued on page 12)

Page 12 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

February Regular Communication will be on February 19 with lodge opening at 6:00 PM. The program for the evening is still TBD.

If you would like to join us for dinner at any of our regular communications, please call Brother Bob Gervais at 401-861-1757 no later than the Sunday before the scheduled communication. Leave a message stating who you are, where you are from, and that you would like to join us! Dinners are $10.00 and the menu is published in each month’s Trestleboard. For updated or further information about what is happening at St. Johns Lodge you can also check our website at https://www.stjohns1p.com. W∴Mazen Alsabe, and the wardens and brethren of St. Johns Lodge would like to wish you all a safe and joyous Holiday Season and a happy and prosperous New Year. 

Friendship Lodge No. 7 By: Brother Kevin J. Kelley

To all who see these presents, greetings,

William Howard Taft wrote: “The secret of Masonry, like the secret R∴W∴Eric E. Grist, DDGM, W∴James Halderman, of life, can be known only by those who seek it, serve it, live it. It Hope Lodge No. 25, W∴John W. Kent, III GMC. cannot be uttered; it can only be felt and acted…”

The famed southern district “Winter Warmer” is planned for early This being said, it seems appropriate to begin with a look back on February. Mt. Vernon Lodge is planning a Table Lodge the prior year’s recognitions. W∴John Barnes was pleased to Celebrating the 220th year history of Mount Vernon. We are looking award the Friendship Lodge Service Award (Mason of the Year) to forward to attending these and many more events. Brother Dennis McSweeney, the Steere Masonic Watch to Brother Keith Doucette and Friendship’s special recognitions to brothers Take a trip down to the Southern District. I expect you will go home Mike Dahlquist and Mike Haggerty. W∴John Barnes also had the happy and never hungry.  pleasure of announcing Friendship Lodge once again had several brothers receive the Grand Lodge Masonic Rookie of the Year NEWS FROM AROUND THE LODGES Award, congratulations to brothers Jared Kelley, Keith Beaudreau, and Gary Turner.

St. Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence September began with Friendship Lodge’s 220th Annual By: W∴Timothy L. Culhane, P.M. Communication and the mood was bright. R∴W∴Rick Baccus DDGM and W∴Rick Lynch GMC did an excellent job installing the Greetings from the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren of new line of officers and welcoming W∴Robert Young as Friendship St. Johns Lodge. Fall has been a great season for the lodge and Lodge’s 163rd Worshipful Master. Winter promises to be great as well. At the regular communication on September 18 the lodge was pleased to receive a visit from our Fall is a busy time for the lodge and the brothers continued with Most Worshipful Grand Master, Kenneth Poyton. Brother Shai the long-held traditions of hosting the Special Ladies luncheon, the Afsai gave a presentation titled “The Sage, the Prince, and the annual poinsettia delivery, our Wine Tasting Charity Event and of Rabbi: Benjamin Franklin’s Art of Virtue, Freemasonry, and course our regular Wednesday fellowship nights. Additionally, we Judaism.” The program was very informative, entertaining and were able to again partner with the Chepachet Business well received. Should Brother Shai give this presentation again in Association and represent the lodge in October’s Scarecrow our area, it is well worth seeing. Contest and Trick or Treat station, as well as the upcoming December Thursday Night Candle-Light Shopping events. At our October Regular Communication our Worshipful Master and a full complement of officers conferred the Entered Apprentice Freemasonry has shown me light in many different ways and Degree on three candidates. We are proud to welcome Brothers introduced me to many diverse experiences but, being a part of Allen Michael LaMoore and Armando Barragan-Tovar, both the vote to affiliate M∴W∴Stephen Mitchell PGM to Friendship members of DeMolay and Past State Master Councilors, and Lodge was probably one of the most rewarding. Add to this the fact Matthew Lyndon Mayers. M∴W∴Mitchell has already jumped in to help prompt us during ritual work and join us for our Wednesday fellowship, just shows December will be a busy month for the lodge. W∴Mazen Alsabe the fraternal bond that we as Masons and brothers of Friendship will host the annual Holiday Party on December 13. Please watch Lodge share.  for details in our Trestleboard. We will hold a joint meeting at Ezekiel Bates Lodge in Attleboro, MA on Wednesday the 18. The Harmony Lodge No. 9 lodge is looking forward to continuing this new tradition. The By: Brother Jan A. Zukowski meeting will tentatively start at 6:00 PM. On December 21 the annual holiday food basket event will take place at the Scottish Now that the days are getting shorter and our lodges are glowing Rite Masonic Center on Broad Street in Cranston. This event will brighter, we extend our fraternal greetings, hand in friendship, and start at 6:00 AM and all are welcome to come and help with the hope that you include Harmony Lodge in your travel plans in the assembly. coming months.

The first Regular Communication of 2020 will take place on Harmony Lodge, following a busy summer, continued our work into the fall season. In September the brethren picked up our working January 15. Lodge will open at 5:30 PM and the Fellow Craft degree will be conferred upon all available candidates. The (continued on page 13) ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 13

(continued from Page 12, Harmony Lodge) wife Lisa, Patrick Connor and son Patrick, and one of our newest brothers Rich Nemirow and his daughter were in attendance tools and continued with our lodge business with our first monthly supporting this wonderful event. On October 26, Harmony held communication on September 3. September 14 found our “Walk- the Spooktacular Sundae Social, a Halloween-themed ice-cream In-Harmony” club attending the “Walk to end Alzheimer’s” at sundae event for brethren and their families. Gillette Stadium. Brothers Mickey Torgan, Patrick Connor, Jan Zukowski, along with Al Anton and his family, took part in this November brought us our semi-public installation of officers on event. November 23 at the Doric Masonic Center, presided by DDGM Gilbert J. Fontes Jr, followed by the annual lodge banquet held in the Imperial Room at the RI Shrine Center in Cranston. Congratulations to Worshipful Master Patrick Connor on his ascension to the East, as well to the newly installed officers. On November 30 our brothers participated in the semi-annual home visits to our Special Ladies and infirmed brethren.

The months ahead also provide many opportunities for fellowship and charity, and we welcome all to attend. Please join Harmony Lodge for our monthly communication on December 3 when our newly appointed officers handle the business of the lodge for the first time.

Harmony Lodge will be getting into the Holiday spirit with a busy yet festive December. On December 5, Harmony Lodge will be having the Annual Wrapping and Decorating party when we deck the halls and wrap gifts in preparation for the annual Christmas Party. Please join Harmony Lodge on December 7 for the annual Children’s Christmas Party, starting at 12:00 noon. This is always In October, we started off with our monthly communication and fun for the whole family and come enjoy the food, crafts, and a visit annual Step-up Night on October 1. A fantastic job was done from Santa! conducting the monthly communication by the incoming Worshipful Master Patrick Connor, Senior Warden David Harmony’s Holiday Luncheon with the Ladies of Harmony will be Desplaines, Junior Warden Joshua Edwards, along with the held Saturday, December 28 at Lancellotta’s restaurant, from incoming 2019-2020 officers. 12:00 to 3:30 PM. Entertainment will be very festive with a performance from the Holiday Victorian Carolers.

Fidelity Chapter of RI DeMolay will be hosting “Cha-cha for Charity” on January 11, 2020 held at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Cranston at 6:00 PM with doors opening at 5:00 PM. A tenet of DeMolay is the support of our public schools, and Fidelity Chapter is raising money for a dance program to be started at Cranston High School East. Tickets are $25.00. Questions can be directed to dad Jeremy Newton at Harmony Lodge.

nd As a note, Harmony Lodge will be hosting the 42 annual Brother Henry Rossi Memorial Game Dinner at the Portuguese Club in Cranston on March 1, 2020. Please contact the lodge with any questions that you may have.

As always, please refer to www.harmony9.org and the monthly trestle board for specific details, including instructions for placing reservations, upcoming dates, and events. Please continue to support your lodge and participate as you are able. 

This same night found us celebrating a presentation of a 25-Year Franklin Lodge No. 20 By: W∴Ray Geer, P.M. medal to Brother William Bridge, Jr., presented by M∴W∴Kenneth nd Poyton Grand Master and R∴W∴Gilbert J. Fontes Jr. DDGM. “2 Tuesday Breakfast” Brother William was joined by his wife Barbara who was able to witness the presentation and the honor of a walk around the lodge Earlier this year, members of Franklin Lodge and their ladies started meeting for breakfast on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at escorted by R∴W∴Gil Fontes. Lastly, our new class of Master nd Masons took their obligations and proficiencies and signed the Amanda’s Pantry located on Beach Street in Westerly, RI. The 2 lodge bylaws, solidifying their membership in the lodge. Tuesday was chosen for our monthly breakfast as it is our stated Congratulations to the class and to Brother Jeremy Newton for meeting day. The food is great, and the conversations and preparing the class so well this year. camraderie are awesome. Joining us for breakfast in October were: (pictured next page). (left) Brother Ed Greene, Doreen Walk-In-Harmony was out again on October 6 for the “Walk to End Stafford, Brother Ray Geer, Brother Dave and Cassandra Alzheimer’s” Rhode Island event with Brother Steve Garvey and Crandall. (right) Brother Tommy Stafford, Cindy Rzewuski, wife Pat attending. On the same day, we attended the “JDRF One “Special Lady” Ann Songs, Brother Dan Rzewuski and Pauline Walk” in Johnston RI, in support of those living with Type-1 Rzewuski.  diabetes having safer and healthier lives. Brother Jim DiBiaso and (continued on page 14)

Page 14 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

(continued from Page13, Franklin Lodge) except his subordinates had better reply, “Yes Master Chief!” After serving his country from 1943-1945 he then continued his

career in the Navy Reserves for 40 years until 1985 as well as a distinguished career of 37 years working for Narragansett Electric where he started sweeping the floors and worked his way up to an

ambitious position of on-site engineer. Patriotism and ambition are two words that categorize him in his generation but does not define a great man.

Many of you know this great man as Earl or Uncle Earl but to me

and family he is known as Uncle Ray. If you’d like the explanation why, then you’ll have to come to one of our meetings and ask him. He’ll happily explain it. He and his loving wife Evelyn of 67 years have been as close to a blood relative as you can ever imagine.

Going back to the 1930’s, where she and my grandmother attended Sunday School together. I asked the youngest Master Mason of Ionic, Brother Rob Robello who was Worshipful Mann’s

student last year if he had any other insight into what should be included in this article. The only thing he had to offer is this “he’s the greatest man I’ve ever known in my life”. Both of these men

have become true, true, brothers whose mutual respect for each Ionic Lodge No. 28 other and the love for the lodge which they serve as a cornerstone By: R∴W∴Jason Greene, P.M. of not only our institution but turning Ionic Lodge into a family. In closing, it doesn’t matter what you call him, Earl, Uncle Ray he will Great stories that endure through the decades often begin with, ever be known as not only a great brother and loving family man “once upon a time, a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away” or but forever after as Worshipful Master!  even “it was a dark and rainy night, the crackle of thunder shook the very ground with which we stood.” This is one of those great Jenks Lodge No. 24 stories, filled with friendship, family and brotherly love. By: Brother Mark Lamastro

The Roaring Twenties were Good day brethren,

well underway, flappers were As the summer wound to an end and fall began to add color to the dancing the night away until trees, Jenks Lodge had begun talks with Saint Andrew’s Lodge to the dawns’ sun was rising. strengthen our lodges by merger. As of the time of this writing the Just 10 days prior to his birth, brothers of Saint Andrew’s Lodge had voted to enter official th our 30 president Calvin negotiations with Jenks Lodge, and the various merger Coolidge’s Inaugural Address committees from each lodge had met on several occasions to was the first ever broadcast begin the negotiation process having already made significant on national radio. The date progress toward a well-planned merger. when our story begins is Saturday, March 14, 1925, I personally believe a merger between our lodges would result in the day that the newest a positive outcome for the brothers of both lodges. Historically Worshipful Master of Ionic Jenks Lodge had benefitted from mergers with both E.L. Freeman Lodge No. 28 was born! In Lodge and Union Lodge, and if this new merger is completed it too 1925 the Chrysler Motor would benefit Jenks by adding the strengths and traditions of Company was founded. St. Andrew’s Lodge to our newly united lodge. Sears and Roebuck opened their first store in the Windy If the merger should go through Jenks Lodge would begin to meet at Saint Andrew’s Temple in East Providence instead of the City. The first broadcast of “The Grand Ole Opry” took Pawtucket Masonic Temple where we currently meet, but like all place and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby was released. In complicated endeavors nothing is certain, so please check on our October the Mount Rushmore National Monument was dedicated status and where we are meeting before visiting us in the new in North Dakota. The year 1925 as you can plainly see was a year year. A move into Saint Andrew’ s Temple would also have the of firsts! This Worshipful Master’s first was when at the age of 91 added benefit of putting the brothers of Jenks Lodge in a position he assumed his first officer’s chair becoming Junior Steward of to get to know the brothers of Adelphoi Lodge, who also meet at Ionic Lodge. Saint Andrew’s Temple on a more personal level and allow us to work more closely with them in planning future events and projects Let us return to firsts. Shortly before being installed as Junior Some of Jenks Lodge upcoming events include: Steward of Ionic Lodge, precisely 66 years and nine months, Worshipful Earl Mann Jr. was made a Mason at What Cheer Lodge Monday, December 16 - Jenks Lodge Stated Communication. No. 21 in December of 1949. Being proficient as an Entered *Note: this is not Jenks’ normal meeting night, but a week earlier Apprentice he then passed to the degree of Fellow Craft in March to avoid conflicts with the Christmas Holiday. 6:00 PM Dinner. of 1950 and then raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason 7:00 PM Lodge opens. This will be a step-up night for our officers in May of 1950. Prior to beginning his 69+ years of traveling in and a night to recognize any brother who has earned an award as

Masonry and being part of “The Silent Generation” who were well as celebrate the year we just completed. known for their patriotism and ambition, he served with distinction (continued on page 15) in World War II in the Navy. Even back then he was a “Master”

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 15

(continued from Page14, Jenks Lodge) The new Overseas Centennial Challenge Coin debuted, a 2” high relief ¼” thick coin. It’s as big and special as Overseas Lodge! Sunday, December 15 - Comedy Night Fundraiser. 6:00 PM comedy show at the Comedy Connection in East Providence. Additionally, an Overseas custom hand-turned Acacia wood Bring some cash for some of the fantastic raffles that will be held centennial gavel, made by a Master Mason was presented to Overseas Lodge in recognition of 100-years serving the craft of as well. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased from Brother Freemasonry. Staying true to Overseas’ reputation for being big Anthony Amaral or through Comedy Connection’s box office and and special, the gavel boasts some special and over-sized website. Tickets are limited so we suggest purchasing tickets in features. advance. All proceeds to support the Special Olympics of Rhode But there was more! A special limited-edition bolt action rifle shell Island. ball point pen with hand-turned acacia wood barrel and assault pen Wednesday, January 1 - Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics. case was showcased. Each barrel is engraved and individually 9:00AM Breakfast and Fellowship. 12:00 PM Plunge. Location: numbered. A total of 100 pieces are authorized. Get yours while they last! Roger Wheeler Beach. You do not have to sign up to plunge. To join us, just come and support our “plungers”. Visit: The night featured a champagne toast and a prime rib buffet with www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/jenks-lodge/Penguin-Plunge-2020 dessert. Guests were also pleasantly surprised to be provided with to donate. a custom portrait of themselves, by a character artist, while they dined. The custom baked decorated Overseas Centennial cake Saturday, January 4 - Jenks Lodge Annual Communication. was certainly the showpiece of the evening right up until being 4:00PM business meeting opens. 6:00PM Semi-Public Installation served. followed by dinner and dancing as we congratulate the new Master As Overseas continues to celebrate its Centennial Anniversary, it and officers. Please note reservations for dinner are required. forges on ahead toward its next 100 years! 

Monday, January 27 - Jenks Lodge Stated Communication. 6:00 PM Dinner. 7:00 PM lodge opens. There will be a presentation by M∴W∴Wyman P. Hallstrom, III on proper blue lodge etiquette and presentation. Topics will include a variety of details from words and grips to the proper way to communicate with someone in tiled lodge.

Sunday, February 3 - Fourth Annual Jenks Superbowl Party. Come join us in rooting for your favorite team, or just come for the food and the fellowship. The game will be shown on multiple giant screens (up to 120”) for your viewing pleasure. Contact Brother Kevin Jackson for tickets

Monday, February 10 - Jenks Lodge Cigar Night. 6:00 PM at Mr. Cigar on Mineral Spring in North Providence. Contact Brother Rick Wilmott for tickets.

Monday, February 24 - Jenks Lodge Stated Communication.

6:00 PM Dinner. 7:00 PM lodge opens. Jenks will be conferring the Entered Apprentice degree on our newest candidates. Come join us and welcome our newest brothers to the Craft.

Please note dinner reservations are requested for all stated communications. Dinner is $10:00 with a reservation and $15:00 without a reservation. Reservations can be made on the Jenks Lodge webpage or by contacting our Senior Steward. Visit our website at: www.jenkslodge.com. 

Overseas Lodge No. 40 By: W∴Andrew Gold, Master

Centennial Anniversary Celebration Dinner

Overseas Lodge No. 40 held its Centennial Anniversary Celebration Dinner on September 21, 2019 at Lancellotta’s Restaurant. I as Master had the distinct honor and privilege to conduct the evening as Master of Ceremonies.

In attendance were M∴W∴Grand Master Kenneth F. Poyton, Grand Master, R∴W∴Douglas Grant DDGM, their wives, and many familiar brothers, their ladies, and guests. They were greeted with long stem roses (for the ladies) and premium cigars (for the gentlemen). Limited edition shot glasses and coffee mugs were also among the party favors provided.

Page 16 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

Collegivm Lvminosvm With so many riding the trains, it became necessary to share By: W∴Timothy Culhane, Chancellor knowledge with one another and so they developed their secret means of communication, “Symbols”. Symbols were carved or Winter Tidings from the COLLEGIVM LVMINOSVM. It was a quiet painted to direct other hobos to good as well as dangerous venues. Summer for the COLLEGIVM. Our Autumn Communication called Places for food and shelter, kind folks, available work, places that the Michaelmas Term was scheduled for September 17 but was a good con job would be of a benefit, doctor no-charge, and just postponed because so many brothers expressed that they could as important dangers such as police, bad dogs, bad towns, not be there. It was rescheduled for October 29 at the Scottish Rite “danger get out fast”, turn right or left, crossroads turn this way, Cathedral. The program that night was a viewing of the first half of etc. the movie: Terra Masonica: Around the World in 80 Lodges. There were around 30 brothers in attendance, and the general feedback on the film was positive.

The second half of the film will be presented at a salon meeting, date to be determined. A salon is an informal meeting of the COLLEGIVM, usually to enjoy each other’s fellowship and discuss a topic of interest for the evening. The last salon was held on August 24, hosted by Brother Secretary David Lavery. The original plan was to start the viewing of Terra Masonica. The decision was made to discuss other topics of interest and postpone the film until the October Communication. Thank you, Brother Lavery, for extending your hospitality to the COLLEGIVM. Dates, times, and details for future salons will be posted in our trestleboard, on our website (http://www.collegivmlvminosvm.org), our Facebook page and the Grand Lodge Calendar. The need for communal consideration for survival did not stop with

signs and symbols. Hobos gathered in places called “jungles”. Upcoming is the COLLEGIVM’s Trinity Term (Winter/Easter) Jungles were located along the rail and generally hidden in the Stated Communication. Originally scheduled for Thursday, woods where they would settle down to socialize and share a January 30, 2020, it has been rescheduled for Tuesday, January meal. In the inner cities, the jungle was typically located under a 28, 2020 with the venue and topic yet to be determined. bridge. It was in these jungles that tall tales of the travels The Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, officers entertained the group. Bragging rights of fending off the “rail bulls” and scholars of the COLLEGIVM would like to extend their and escapes from imminent danger flooded the campfire warmest wishes for the holidays, and a happy and prosperous gathering. In many cases once a hobo hopped a train, they were New Year. We hope you can join us at one of our salons or at a not sure of the train’s destination often leading to unexpected Stated Communication.  adventure. These tales were beneficial in that, although a bit inflated at times, alerted fellow hobos of areas they may not have travelled. (continued from Page 8, Hobos)

Life on the Iron Trail was not an easy one. Hobos had to endure natural elements such as lack of shelter against weather, hunger, thirst, sickness, and wild animals. Posing equal danger were the trains themselves. The danger of hopping on and off, getting accidently locked into a rail car in extreme heat or cold, trapped in a refrigerator car (in more modern times), and probably one of the worst dangers were the train crews and security staff (commonly known to hobos as “bulls”) would beat them, sometimes fatally. Yet, it was still an avenue for hope of a better life as they migrated westward. Although hobo life began after the Civil War, it grew and grew. By 1906 there were approximately 500,000, 1911 approximately 700,000, and during the Great Depression it climbed to a whopping 14 million!

The most humorous outcome of these social gatherings was the hobo jargon. It was some of the most creative descriptions and nomenclature that was meaningless if you were not a hobo.

Bone Orchard: Graveyard White Line: Alcohol & Water Bone Polisher: Mean Dog Wood Butcher: Hobo Carpenter Hot Squat: Electric Chair Hobette: Female Hobo Sky Pilot: Priest Honey Dipping: Working in a sewer Chuck a Dummy: Pretend to Faint Graveyard Stew: Toast and Milk Odd Fellows: 3 Doughnuts & Coffee Mooching: Low Form of Begging Possum Belly: Riding the Roof of Train Scenery Cruiser: Boxcar with 2 doors open

Here we can begin to detect the establishment of a society created of necessity and developed into a culture all its own. 

To be continued next issue.

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 17

Save the Date RHODE ISLAND SHRINE

Masonic Florida Luncheon April 25, 2020 SAHIB SHRINE – SARASOTA February 21, 2020

Testimonial Dinner

in honor of

Most Worshipful Sahib Shrine Center Kenneth F. Poyton 600 N. Beneva Rd. Sarasota, FL 34232 Grand Master Telephone 941-366-4449

Further information on ticket price, availability, and Cost is $24.00 per person

location will follow in the next issue of the RI Freemason. Luncheon Menu: Baked Tilapia with Wild Rice or Pot Roast with Baked Potato and Vegetables Fresh Salad, Hot Dinner rolls Cheesecake, Coffee and Tea

th 8 Annual ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE PREPAID BY

February 10, 2020 W∴Richard F. Andrews

Checks made payable to the

Memorial Game Dinner Grand Lodge of Rhode Island

Please mail reservations to: Santa Maria Di Prata Grand Lodge of Rhode Island

29 Walnut Grove Ave., Cranston, RI Attn: Ron Reed, Grand Secretary 222 Taunton Ave. Saturday, February 1, 2020 East Providence, RI 02914

6:00 PM Raffle 7:00 PM Dinner $35.00 Donation

Dinner Served Family Style Including: Antipasto, Game Soup, Boar & Peas, Cornish Game Hen, Pasta with Venison Meatballs, Venison Chili, Venison Meatloaf, Venison Sausage and Potatoes

See any officer of Ionic Lodge for Tickets or e-mail ticket requests to

[email protected]

All tickets must be paid and picked up by 1/25/20 Tickets will be collected at the door

Come and enjoy good food with great friends! Public Welcome Raffles & 50/50 Drawing

First let me begin by giving thanks to everyone who has and continues to support

our Club Masonico Libertad through the serious task we have taken upon during Update on Club Masonico Libertad the past few years in the creation of the first Spanish language lodge in our By: W∴ Melvin E. Silverio jurisdiction. For over a year, along with the participation of several brothers from our Masonic club, I have researched and written what is now four chapters/articles

bringing to light different Spanish speaking Freemasons who have been a source of influence and have made significant contributions throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America, as well as the world. This has also served as an introduction to Latin American Freemasonry. We hope you have enjoyed them. We were also able to share some of our initial work we had previously done such as the crest of the club/future lodge.

I would like to bring you another update into our progress. As of July 2019, I was elected unanimously as the President of Club Masonico

Libertad. Joining me were Secretary W∴Richard Gonzalez and Treasurer Brother Felix Diclo. I have established several special committees in order to advance, as well as share our tasks at hand. Two of the committees created are the by-laws and the translation committees. Through the by-laws committee spearheaded by W∴Richard Gonzalez, Club Masonico Libertad has drafted our first by-laws

document. We understand that there is a very arduous road ahead before it is presented to our Grand Lodge as there will be many more revisions to come, as well as other documents and parts that must be completed before our submission for dispensation is considered. Nonetheless, we are all excited to see the progress from where we started. (continued on page 19)

Page 18 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

Gathering’s purpose is to provide awareness and preservation of International Gathering of Masonic Lodges the crypt of St. Alban, fittingly located in the Cathedral of St. Named for St. Alban Albans, Hertfordshire, UK. Following this year’s festivities, our By: W∴Jason M. Nystrom, St. Albans Lodge No. 6 group’s Secretary, Joe Fletcher (Philadelphia), and chairman of

next year’s Gathering in NY, Charlie Scheu, presented a donation Greetings from the United Kingdom! to the Very Reverend Dean of St. Albans Cathedral for the crypt, which was very well received. From September 13-16, 18 members, ladies, and friends of St. Alban’s Lodge No. 6 attended the 66th Annual International The sign of a great trip is a reluctance to return home. For myself Gathering of Masonic Lodges Named for St. Alban in and all the others who traveled abroad, we all feel the same way. Northumberland, UK. We were greeted by the brothers and ladies Here’s to the 67th Gathering in New York- Cheers! of St. Albans Lodge No. 5322 as we and approximately 100 others, (The International Gathering of Masonic Lodges Named for St. were shown the finest that Northumberland has to offer. Lodging Alban is open to all Freemasons and their families. Attendees need was at The Grand Hotel in Tynemouth, a costal suburb of not be a member of a lodge named St. Alban, one must merely Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, which provided spectacular coastal views have a connection or friendship with one. If any are interested in as well as easy access to the charming seaside community. traveling to future Gatherings, please reach out to W∴Jason

Friday evening saw the group check-in, as well as a welcome Nystrom for details. If any lodge wishes to begin holding such reception at the host lodge located in the village of Shiremoor, events with their own and sister-named lodges, such as the St. where we were enjoyed classic Northumbrian fare such as “pease Albans Gatherings, please reach out to any brother of St. Albans pudding” and pork pies. The entertainment for the evening saw an No. 6, and we will be happy to assist.)  Irish step dance routine performed by a local group led by the host lodge’s Worshipful Master’s wife. Strikingly different from lodges in our jurisdiction, there was a fully staffed and supplied bar in the temple itself.

Saturday saw the men return to the lodge for the gathering’s business meeting, where the roll of attendees and upcoming gatherings are announced. Next year’s Gathering will be held in Long Island, NY, with Branford, CT hosting the event the following year. After a spirited discussion, it was announced that our very own St. Alban’s No. 6 will host the event in 2022.

The lodge was then opened, and the attendees were treated to an exemplification of the Fellow Craft Degree in English-fashion, which was followed by a festive board, complete with singing and toasts. While the men “labored,” the ladies were treated to a cruise down the River Tyne, taking in the quayside views and the city’s famous bridges. That evening saw all return to The Grand Hotel for a formal “Ladies Night” banquet, complete with live entertainment, food, and drink.

On Sunday, the attendees took a trip into County Durham (south of Tynemouth), and spent the day at Beamish Open Air Museum (www.beamish.org.uk), where we took a step back into time. The museum is akin to Olde Sturbridge Village, Colonial Williamsburg, and Plimoth Plantation, but on a massive scale. As we rode vintage busses, trolleys, and steam trains, we were able to explore a former coal pit mine, a 1940s farm and homestead, Edwardian- era villages, victorian mansions, and pre-WWI military reenactors, taking in all the traditional sights, smells, and tastes. We returned to The Grand Hotel that evening and spent time at the local pubs, be it at Copperfields, The Stuffed Dog, or The Priory, where we enjoyed some “real ale” (i.e. cask conditioned), fish and chips, and other local classics.

All of us who attended used the Gathering as an excuse to make a vacation to the UK and beyond. Whether it was painting London red, smoking a cigar in Winston Churchill’s favorite cigar store, enjoying the Eifel Tower in Paris, attending a wedding in Lincoln, walking along Hadrian’s Wall, driving along the Northumberland coast, seeing the Cliffs of Moher, or strolling the streets of Edinburgh, everyone had the trip of a lifetime.

The International Gathering has been an annual event for the past 66 years; it brings together brothers and their families from all corners of the globe for a weekend of fun and fellowship. The connections you make become friends for life. Part of the

(continued on page 19) ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 19

(continued from Page 18, St. Alban) process. This committee is co-chaired by Luis Carcamo and Hugo Adames Sr., which have the task of bringing “Old Spanish”

Verbiage into our documents.

Our club brothers are from many different lodges throughout our jurisdiction, as well as very diverse in the many Spanish speaking countries we are from. Currently we have over 20 brothers that are Spanish speaking and are involved in this work. Our native countries are from South America (Colombia, Venezuela, and Bolivia to name a few), Central America (Mexico and El Salvador) and the Caribbean (Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic). It has been very interesting to share our cultures with each other, as well as sharing our Masonic interactions or recollections from our respective countries of birth.

Speaking about interactions, our Club has made its first official

visitation to another Spanish speaking lodge. On October 28, 2019

a group of eight brothers including R∴W∴Andre Faria DDGM for the East Bay District traveled to Logia America in Cambridge, MA to witness not only an opening and closing, but also the opportunity to see an official Massachusetts DDGM Visitation to this lodge. Massachusetts has several Spanish speaking lodges. This lodge has been in existance for 25 years. It was very interesting to see the interaction of the Grand Lodge officers all speaking English and the lodge maintaining all communication under the Worshipful Master in Spanish.

In regards to our visit, we would like to extend our gratitude to R∴W∴Paul J. Malagrifa, DDGM 2nd Masonic District and his W∴Baruti KMT-Smisouvong, GMC, for giving us the courtesy and inviting R∴W∴Andre Faria and myself as Grand Lodge representative to sit in the East during the visitation. We would also like to give very special thank you to the brothers of Logia America, especially to their W∴Ricardo Viera, SW Ricardo Gonzalez and R∴W∴Edgar R. de Leon for warmly receiving us into their lodge and offering their full support for our future lodge. We hope to continue to continue to build upon on our relations in the future.

Looking forward, we hope to travel to most of the Eastern

Jurisdictions from Washington DC and up the East Coast, in order

to view and experience Spanish speaking lodges. Looking ahead for the upcoming months, we will be concentrated on continuing to

draft our by-laws, continue working on our translations, begin the

organization of several events/programs to fund the future lodge

and to practice and perform an opening and closing in Spanish as part of a program. Also, the first week of December, Brother Felix Diclo, Grand Lodge Representative near the Grand Lodge of Cuba and myself, will be taking part in the 160th Anniversary of the Grand

Lodge of Cuba. We hope to bring more enlightenment of Cuban Freemasonry, as well as a viewpoint of this great occasion.

Anyone who is interested in being part of the creation of the Spanish speaking lodge, you are welcomed to reach out to me at [email protected] or 401-365-8509. You don’t have to (continued from Page 17, Club Masonico) know Spanish in order to be involved.  Another key update we would like to address is a question we have been asked many times before. What ritual will we use? We will be using the same exact ritual and customs set by our Grand Lodge and adopted throughout our jurisdiction. Basically, this would be a translation into Spanish. We wanted to align in this matter in regards to ritual, in order to maintain consistency as well as ensure any brother from our jurisdiction could follow any part of the ritual being performed or conferred, and know exactly what is happening. I have been personally and diligently working with our

Right Worshipful Grand Lecturer Robert Drisko in order to ensure we are following all the guidelines, edicts, and constitution to bring this part of the project into existence. We sincerely thank R∴W∴Robert for his assistance and guidance through this

Page 20 December/January/February 2019-20 ______

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island 222 Taunton Avenue East Providence, RI 02914-4556

Telephone: 401-435-4650 Fax: 401-435-4423

Email: [email protected] [email protected] Web Site: www.rimasons.org

Normal hours of operation: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM