MARCH/APRIL/MAY 2020 Rhode Island

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

St. Johns Commandery No.1

Winter Solstice

At the Newport Tower

December 21, 2019

Continued on Page 6

Page 2 March/April/May 2020 ______

Grand Master’s Message

moving parts to this project which has kept the building committee very busy, meeting frequently to make sure this project stays within budget and on track. I have no idea when it will be completed but

I am confident that when finished, your Grand Lodge building will continue to be a symbol of all that is good for all to see and

appreciate.

Lodges have already begun to look-into purchasing an AED device

for their temple. I was at a presentation on how to use this device at Washington Lodge No. 3 and it looked very easy. Remember

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.

• Have it installed in your lodge.

• Have training on how to use it. This would make for a very good program at your meetings. The more brothers who

know how to use it is a good thing.

Brother Kenneth F. Poyton Please take advantage of this offer. Most Worshipful Grand Master Every year the first weekend of February, the Grand Councils from My Brothers, with the change in the frequency of publishing the RI New England travel to Portsmouth, NH for what we call a “get- Freemason, this is my last message as Grand Master that I will away weekend.” This is a great time to get together with other write. Even though I have much to do in my allotted time left as Grand Jurisdictions to discuss what is going on with them. Lots of Grand Master, these next few months will be extremely busy for good ideas come from this weekend and I would like to share one the Grand Marshal and I as we travel both in and out of this Grand of them with you. Lodge members can at times be very cliquish Jurisdiction. I must say that the support we have been shown has and they tend to sit with the same brothers at dinner and in the been overwhelming and very much appreciated. We are looking lodge. Believe it or not, this type of action can deprive you of forward to the next few months as our schedule will bring us out meeting other members of your lodge. I have a suggestion to help many times to do what we enjoy which is to be with our brothers. break this. When you have dinner, put a number in a hat and a

There is not enough room for me to write about past events so, I corresponding number at the dinner table. Each brother must pull won’t, with the exception of one particular event. On February 24, a number out of the hat and find the same number and sit there. I presided over the merge of St. Andrews Lodge No. 39 and Jenks You never know what new friendships you will make. Just a suggestion. Lodge No. 24. In this time of hostile takeovers, this ceremony was just the opposite as two great lodges are joined as one. As I have always thought that we have a tendency to make anticipated, there was some sadness that evening, however, the Freemasonry rather complicated when in reality it does not have feeling of joy, hope, and anticipation for something much better to to be. Simply put, we are a FRATERNITY first and when we come prevailed. It takes a lot of courage to admit that the time has remember that, the pieces just seem to fit together. We promise to come, and a change must take place. I commend the brethren of be there for a brother in good times and more importantly, in sad St. Andrews Lodge for making that most difficult decision. St. times. We promise to respect each other and to never attack them Andrews Lodge has a wonderful history and knowing the history personally. We promise to do many other things but basically as of Jenks Lodge and the brethren there, I am confident they will Masons we try to be a good person and an ambassador of honor the memory of St. Andrews Lodge for as long as they are Freemasonry. Personally, I wear my Masonic ring with the square able to. and compasses facing me to constantly remind me of the promises

One of the reasons this merge came about was because Jenks I made while kneeling at the Masonic altar and to challenge myself Lodge was forced to leave their home in Pawtucket which will be to live up to the expectations of being a member of this great Fraternity. Are you challenging yourself?  torn down due to a sewer system upgrade by Narragansett Bay Commission. Now that these two lodges have combined into one, Fraternally yours, this is a new and exciting beginning for our brothers from Jenks Lodge as they move to a new beautiful home in Riverside. We all Kenneth F. Poyton wish them well. Grand Master

I am pleased to report that Most Worshipful Brother Iacobucci and his team are prepared to present the revised “New Wardens Rhode Island FREEMASON Workshop” to the brethren. I want to thank them for their hard work and dedication in putting this program together to help future (USPS 366-750) Masters learn the business and fraternal side of their duties. It has Published by the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island been a while since we have had this type of presentation and I encourage the wardens and any interested brother to attend and 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 hear what they have to say. To make it more convenient, I plan on Published in March, June, September, and December. having one presentation on a Saturday morning and another on a weekday night. More information on these dates will have already POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: been sent to the lodge Masters by the time this is published. The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island The repairs to the Grand Lodge will have started (weather 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 permitting) by the time you see this message. There are many Periodicals Paid in Providence, RI

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New Program of Emails from Providence VA Medical Center

Reaching Out to Our Veteran’s There is a new program for emails detailing programs being During the Holidays offered at the Providence VA Hospital. We will be starting a pilot

By: R∴W∴Russell Kawa, MSA Representative program using the Scottish Rite Veterans Email database to send

out these notices. They will have a heading from Winfield Masonic Services Association Danielson III. With an email address of [email protected]. These programs range from health benefits to new programs and VA hospital programs.

Rhode Island Veterans Home Holiday Visit

Most Worshipful Grand Master Kenneth F. Poyton accompanied by several Grand Lodge officers and brother Masons paid their annual holiday visit to the Rhode Island Veterans’ Home. The Veterans’ Home director/commandant is R∴W∴Rick Baccus District Deputy Grand Master and retired Brigadier General, US Army. R∴W∴Rick was very happy to receive his fellow brothers and introduce them to the residents of the home. Gifts were presented to every resident on behalf of Masonic Grand Lodge Charities and all the Freemasons of Rhode Island. 

On November 2, 2019 Russ Kawa, MSA Representative for the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, presented a check from Grand Lodge Charities of Rhode Island to Donna Russillo, Chief of

Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service Program, for $2,000.00 for their Thanksgiving Basket programs for veterans.

On December 2, 2019 Russ Kawa, MSA Representative for the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island and RI Grand Lodge VA Volunteer Service Representative, was joined by Most Worshipful Grand Master Kenneth F. Poyton, Brothers Elliot Greene, Frank

Castalone and his service dog Perry, Pat Paolo, David Armstrong, Elton Ricker, Rusty Booth, Michael Cunningham, and Bob Goff at the VA Hospital in Providence, RI.

That evening we visited every department from patient’s rooms, psychiatric health services, emergency room, and even the intensive care unit. We brought along Christmas cheer from the

Masons of Rhode Island and a gift from the Masonic Charities of Rhode Island.

This is a yearly event sponsored by Grand Lodge Charities and the VA Voluntary Services. I would like to thank all the volunteers that took part in this year’s event.

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TESTIMONIAL DINNER IN HONOR OF

BROTHER KENNETH F. POYTON

The Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons

For the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Twelve Acres

445 Douglas Pike (Rt. 7)

Smithfield, RI

Presented by Harmony Lodge No. 9 F. & A. M.

No Host Social Hour – 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Dinner – 7:00 PM

Choice of:

New York Sirloin Steak (12 oz.)

Chicken Kiev, Twelve Acres Specialty

Price - $35.00 per person

All Reservations must be received prior to April 19, 2020

Tables of ten (10) may be reserved – All others are open seating Gentlemen: Business suit

------

Return this portion with your check payable to: Harmony Lodge No. 9, c/o James R. Rapson, Treasurer, 244 Park View Avenue, Warwick, RI 02888

Name ______# in Party * ______Telephone:______

# Beef ______# Chicken ______# Vegetarian Gluten Free ______

Total payment enclosed: $ ______

*NOTE: Attach list of all names in your party with individual choices

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 5

Jamaica, Virgin Islands, Peru, South Africa, and many European th Travels to the 160 Anniversary delegations. of the Grand Lodge of Cuba

By: W∴Melvin E. Silverio

The first week of December, Brother Felix Diclo Grand Lodge Representative near the Grand Lodge of Cuba and myself, had the th great opportunity of traveling and taking part in the 160 Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Cuba together with the rd Supreme Council of 33 Scottish Rite of Cuba. I must begin by expressing my warmest appreciation to the Grand Lodge of Cuba and all the brothers from Cuba for their warm reception and attention they gave both Felix and I. Below you will see a few pictures of our trip and we would gladly put together a formal presentation as a program for any lodge in need as part of Club Masonico Libertad. During our time in Cuba we were able to attend many activities. This is an abbreviated itinerary of activities.

Tuesday, December 3, 2019 was the accreditation of delegates At noon we were received by the Grand Lodge at the National and welcome cocktail reception by the Most Worshipful Grand Masonic Building: "Carlos Manuel Piñeiro y del Cueto". The Grand Master of Cuba Ernesto Zamora Fernández and the Sovereign Master gave a welcome address to the delegates. Brother Felix Grand Commander of the Supreme Council of 33 Scottish Rite of Diclo is our Grand Lodge Representative to Cuba but he felt under Cuba, José Ramón Viñas Alonso. It was a great time meeting and the weather so bestowed on me the honor and privilege to bring getting to know many of the dignitaries including Grand Masters the official greetings of our Grand Lodge and those of our Most from various jurisdictions. Delegations from Puerto Rico, Worshipful Grand Master Kenneth F. Poynton. I was humbled by Dominican Republic, New York, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, Panama, the occasion as many were delighted to hear me speak fluently in and many more were in attendance. Over 250 brothers from 52 both English and translated into Spanish when bringing the different countries/states with 35 Grand Masters, Past Grand greetings of our jurisdiction. Masters and Sovereign Commanders attended the event. In the th evening we were invited to a stated regular communication of The evening was the main event of the 160 anniversary Lodge Jose Naken, which is the mother lodge of the organizer of celebration of the Grand Lodge and the Supreme Council. The all events, W∴Raimundo Gomez Cervantes, Exterior Relations Grand Master and Sovereign Grand Commander welcomed us at and Foreign Affairs officer for Grand Lodge of Cuba. the Concert Hall of the Minor Basilica of San Francisco de Asís in the Historic Center of Havana. This is where the oldest traces of Masonry are found in Cuba. We ended the night with commemorative dinner at the restaurant "El Patio" in Cathedral Square, after walking through old Havana in full regalia.

Members of Lodge Jose Naken with M∴W∴Zamora Grand Master, the Grand Marshal, and the Grand Secretary.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019 we had a city tour of Havana, with emphasis on sites linked to the history of Freemasonry in Cuba. In the evening we were able to attend a Cultural Gala for the 160th Anniversary of the Grand Lodge and the Supreme Council of the L – R: W∴Melvin Silverio, the Grand Marshal and the Grand Secretary of Cuba and Brother Felix Diclo. 33 at the renowned Martí Theater. We were delighted by an outstanding performance by Camerata Romeu directed by I feel blessed and honored to have represented our Grand Lodge Maestra Zenaida Romeu, whose grandfather was a Past Grand with my brother Felix in Havana and hope to continue to travel Master of Cuba. around Latin America and other jurisdictions to learn about the Thursday, December 5, 2019 we accompanied all the delegations different cultures of our Masonic brothers. Freemasonry is from across all of the jurisdictions where we attended a morning universal. floral offering to the Apostle and Brother José Martí Pérez at the I will leave it with our motto of Club Masonico Libertad, “Sine Central Park statue. All were in full regalia led by Grand Master Termini æqualitatis,” translated to Spanish is “Igualidad sin with the Grand Lodge officers and Supreme Grand Commander of Fronteras,” or in English “equality without borders.” It was chosen Scottish Rite, Ill. José Ramón Viñas Alonso and members of as we believe that especially in Freemasonry brothers are never Scottish Rite. It was amazing and heartwarming to see such strangers even in foreign lands. diversity in every aspect including language, ethnicity, and religion. (continued on page 6) There were brothers from many counties in attendance from Page 6 March/April/May 2020 ______

(continued from Page 5, Grand Lodge of Cuba)

Club Masonico Libertad will be traveling to our second Spanish speaking lodge, Logia La Fraternidad in New York City on Friday,

March 13. During our travels to Cuba we were delighted to see some of these New York brothers as Felix and I had enjoyed their brotherhood in a Festive Board held for the newly chartered

Spanish Lodge in NY, Juan Pablo Duarte Lodge. This lodge pays homage to the father of the Dominican Republic.

On March 28 we will be holding the first event for our Club. This will be a family event and we really hope to have you join us. More details to be announced through social media and proper communications throughout the jurisdiction. Anyone who is interested in being part of the creation of the Spanish language lodge, are welcomed to reach out to me at [email protected] or 401-365-8509. You don’t have to speak Spanish in order to be involved. 

St. Johns Commandery No. 1

Winter Solstice at the Newport Tower December 21, 2019

Eminent Commander Paul Liese and Sir Knights from St. Johns Commandery with support from other Rhode Island commanderies were present to salute the winter solstice illumination at the Newport (Templar) Tower. Over 100 hundred Sir Knights and public were present. Following the event many of the Sir Knights traveled to the shoreline to view the “In Hoc Signo Vinces” stone. Clear skies and cold weather greeted everyone! 

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We sat at the dining room table listening to my father tell about his

How Did You Come to Freemasonry? travels. Christina turned to me and said “why aren’t you part of

By: Brother Randy Boone, Manchester Lodge No. 12 this? You need to go and see what it is all about.” She wanted

more for me, so my wife pushed for me to be a better man. When I first sat down to write this it was intended to someday share I started attending some of the events at the local lodge, to get to with the brethren. It turned out to be a presentation for the Grand know the Manchester brothers. A golf tournament (which we won, Master’s visitation to my lodge. A little over two years ago, I was and weren’t invited back to), a “Black and Blue” night, a burger- kneeling at that sacred altar for the first time and now preparing for dog event. All of which, M∴W∴Glenn Carlson attended and made my first Masonic presentation, and it’s for the Grand Master’s sure to sit with me and chat. I had known, M∴W∴Carlson since I official visitation, now that’s a little bit of pressure. My purpose for was young and yet I never knew he was a Mason. sharing this with you is to reinvigorate, to challenge you to ask and answer the question, “Are you living and showing the people I put my application in, had my investigation several weeks later to around you the reasons that brought you into Freemasonry?” see if I was the right fit for me and the lodge. My investigation goes well, and I am approved to join the lodge. The night comes to start In preparing for this I asked Masons why did you join the Craft? my journey and take the first degree, and I am nervous. You would The consistent answer was they wanted more for and from think I wouldn’t be because of my family affiliations, but I was more themselves, to make themselves better, to be the best man they nervous than the other two candidates. The only thing that made could be. There were a large range of answers, but always a it easier was knowing that I was not going at it alone, I was going common theme. Some wanted to become a Templar Knight, learn through this with two other men. No idea that I would be forever more about the history, regain the brotherhood from their service linked with them, that the next nine months we would not only to our country, and it was a calling to others. The longer I become friends, brothers, but more importantly, we became conversed the more it became clear they wanted “more” for and family! from themselves. Not just the tag line “Making Good Men Better” but they truly wanted to be the best version of themselves. My The people that are met, the connections you didn’t know, like your hope is that this will force you to ask yourself the same question. cousin being friends growing up with Brother Amaral, or the memories that are shared with the older brothers about running Let me start by saying that I grew up with Freemasonry. My around the Ionic lodge building as a tike. This has added to my grandfather was a Mason, my uncle is a Mason, my father is a Masonic experience. Mason, my mother was member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and even some guy named Daniel, who happens to be my great I can now say that some of my best friends are honestly people uncle to the 6th power (Danie Boone) was a Mason. They would who I would have never crossed paths with. A battery salesman, go once or twice a month to their meetings and I always wondered and 60-year old brother who is probably in the best shape of “where do they go?” I often asked and was often told “to see a man everyone else that I know, an 84-year old that still has his pilot’s about a horse.” license. And for all of this I am truly thankful. They exemplify what it means to be a Mason. Brother Al who took the time as my This would go on until I was 12 and then life happened. My mother instructor and continues to take the time to explain the Craft and became ill, and my grandfather passed shortly after. My father hold me to high standard when it comes to ritual. Brother Lou who stepped aside from Masonry and dedicated himself to not only my is the most caring man I know and exemplifies being a Mason with mother and myself but our entire family, helping my uncle through his non-profit RISH that has touched thousands of children. these difficult times. Once retired he became involved again with Masonry along with balancing the health of my mother and himself. I can only hope that I am able to repay Masonry and the brothers in attendance this evening, future brothers, and more importantly During this time, I had always been interested in this “secret the brothers not in attendance with what brought me here. society” and had done some internet sleuthing, but never took the I will leave you with this: On yonder book we took an oath. Are you plunge. living it? Are you showing your brothers, your friends, your co- Life caught up with my mother, and after a two-month battle, she workers, or even that stranger in the grocery store the virtues we succumbed to her unfortunate circumstance. learned?

Why is all this important? Well at our darkest hour and our saddest Since this presentation took place in November, I can honestly say moment, Freemasonry showed its presence in my life. It was that that I am overwhelmed with the support and kind words from the solemn day at my mother’s memorial service that the light started well over 100 brothers in attendance. Yet there is more work to be peeking through the darkness. The room filled with mother’s done, each of us needs to live it, to meet on the level, to act upon friends, my friends, and coworkers, my father’s friends, and then the plumb, and part upon the square, not only with our fellow Masons started to arrive, and still more Masons arrived. The Grand masons, but everyone we interact with on a daily basis. Our stories and actions are how we will strengthen this great fraternity of Master, M∴W∴Steve McGuire’s wife came in his place, as he was away on business. Wow, 30 brothers came to pay their respects ours.  to my mother, but as importantly to show support for my father. This got my attention and that of my wife also.

We struggled, we were reeling. I had work, my wife and son, my father to dedicate myself to. To make sure they were OK. My father had us, but we couldn’t spend every moment of the day together. We had to move on, we had to continue living life.

This is where the brotherhood came in. My father returned to the Craft, he started slowly going back. Then the phone calls to get him out of the house, to get him back in Freemasonry. Our Masonic Brothers took care of him and helped him grieve. This was earth shattering to me and my wife. I was still at a loss.

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Grand Master of CT, always reminds us, “Freemasonry is a team Time Marches On sport.” It takes the team members, working together, to create a By: R∴W∴Charles Angell successful lodge.

As we leave 2019 behind and with it First and foremost, COMMUNICATE with your members! Have the so called “Greatest Generation” is you published a trestle board yet? Was a hard print copy mailed to slowly taking its place in history. World the older members who don’t have or use social media or email? War II and the veterans that fought in Was the information in the trestle board timely and interesting? If that war are also taking their place in you’re not comfortable with or technologically savvy, identify one history. The United States is loosing or more of your members who may be willing to help you and your 294 WWII Veterans a day. The lodge by serving as a publications committee. Department of Veterans Affairs predicts that in 10 years there will be Second, have you analyzed your lodge’s membership? Take a only 7,795 WW11 Veterans left. Those look at your lodge roster! It is super easy to do with the Grand View of us that served in the Armed forces membership database. What are the ages of those members who at that time faced the most devastating you haven’t seen in lodge lately? Where do they live? Which of war of all time. Our American way of your officers or members live in close proximity? Are they willing life and freedom was at stake. to serve as transportation for those brothers who may not drive at night or who have other difficulties that keep them from attending? The men and women that answered the call took the oath and Third, are your meetings worth the effort to attend? Remember, signed on the dotted line to save our way of life. This has always you are responsible for “setting the craft to work and giving them been true since the Revolutionary War. Freemasonry was always good and wholesome instruction for their labors!” How have your there serving in every capacity and as leaders at all levels. The first several meetings been? Was something offered at every Commanders-in-Chiefs, during WWII, presidents Roosevelt and meeting that made attendance worthwhile? Did you give your Truman were both Freemasons. Many of our top generals were members a reason to return any time soon? If not, now is the time members of the Craft also. Other world leaders at that time were to fix the problem. Do you have a programs committee that can Freemasons such as Winston Churchill who provided the assist you in obtaining and scheduling quality programs that will leadership required to save the free world. Besides our Armed interest and entertain your members? And yes, I said entertain. Forces we must not forget the American civilians who also answered the call. They moved our country from a sleeping giant Sporting events, concerts, movies, all are entertainment and all to an industrial complex that provided the tools to win the war. have become huge businesses that consume our time and our Those that serve in the military obtain a special kind comradeship, money. Recently I read a blurb from 1955 saying “Did you see a brotherhood in arms, that stays with them for the rest of their life. where some baseball player just signed a contract for $50,000 to Today it is so important that we Americans recognize that play ball?” We’re a far cry from that today. Ball players make huge maintaining a strong military is the savior of our American Way of dollars, the batboy probably makes more than $50,000 and that Life and be thankful for those willing to serve. If you meet a kind of entertainment is what your lodge meetings are competing veteran or a member of our Armed Forces, it would be nice to say against. If you don’t make your meetings interesting and worth thank you for your service. God Bless America.  attending, then the only likely attendees will be your officers and a few “hardcore” members who attend because they’re in the habit of doing so. A Key to a Better Lodge Year By: M∴W∴Charles Yohe, PGM - Connecticut Don’t expect to turn your attendance around overnight, it will take

time. That is especially true in a case where your lodge has been A new lodge year is under way! So, how are things going in your struggling in recent years and there is a history of a lack of Lodge? If you are the Worshipful Master, congratulations and I programs. But if you want your lodge to survive and to prosper, the hope your year has started out on a positive note. If it has, again, positive change needs to start somewhere, and it might just as well congratulations. But leaders of successful endeavors know there start with you. is always room for improvement. So, take the time to measure the start to your year and gauge the ways it could have been even Communicate! Identify a handful of key members of your lodge better. If it hasn’t? Well then now is the time to fix it! Reflect on both from within the officer corps and your general membership. what has transpired in the first month of this new year and honestly Sit down with them and develop a plan for improving your lodge appraise what you can do to “raise the bar” and better serve your and your meetings. Think about reviving some old, successful members. Part of this process should include meeting with your activities in which the lodge used to engage or introduce subordinate officers to get their input. Remember, the old adage something new that could be of interest to your membership. Don’t that “two heads are better than one” and keep in mind that one of be afraid to think outside the box! Hold regular meetings with your your responsibilities is to mentor the subordinate officers as they program and transportation committees to get progress reports progress through the line. The key is COMMUNICATION! and to fine tune your efforts. Above all, communicate what you are doing with your members. Publish both your intended programs Every organization, from the largest corporations in the world and the results of the programs you have already offered. Develop down to mom and pop store, whether for profit or not, likely will find interest among your members to attend your meetings. Give your that their success or failure is due in large part to communication, members who didn’t attend a reason to say: “I’m sorry I missed or the lack thereof. Don’t let your lodge be a victim of a lack of that meeting. I’m marking my calendar right now, so I don’t miss communication. What percentage of your membership that lives the next meeting.” within a reasonable distance to your lodge has attended your meetings since January first? Generally speaking, the average If you’re not constantly trying to improve, then there is a very good participation/attendance for volunteer organizations is around 10 chance that you will fall short and your lodge will suffer. And if percent. Is your Lodge doing better than that, worse than that, or you’re not striving to improve, your lodge will move backwards. about average? Are you satisfied with that attendance? If not, what Being the Worshipful Master of a lodge is not easy. This is not something that you can do “on the fly” reliably or for any extended are some of the things your lodge can do to improve those numbers? Remember that, as M∴W∴Theodore J. Nelson, Past (continued on page 9) ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 9

(continued from Page 8, A Key to a Better Lodge Year) second week of August the yearly convention begins. However, not all are welcome. The guest list is limited to current travelling period of time nor are you guaranteed success because you’ve hobos and tramps (no bums allowed), retired hobos, part time done it before. Each year is different, and its success requires hobos who travel occasionally, and hobo enthusiasts known as planning, preparation, communication, and cooperation. “hobos at heart”. Many had a membership card from the I sat in a lodge installation earlier this year where the Worshipful “International Itinerant Migratory Workers Union: Hobos of Master was being installed for the second time. He related that he America,” endorsed by Jeff Davis, who was elected King of the was excited and felt fortunate that there was a one-year break Hobos for life at a hobo convention in 1935. between his two terms. He related that he knew there were things that he should have done differently and that he now felt that this year, he would be better equipped to lead his lodge. I look forward to observing that lodge’s progress this year. Remember, the Worshipful Master is only one man. The officers of the lodge are admonished that “the intelligent cooperation of his officers will do much to lighten his load.” However, the Worshipful Master must lead in a constructive manner. Do this for your lodge and for those who will succeed you as Worshipful Master in future years. If you want a year that you can look back on with pride, you need to do the work now to lead your lodge in growing and improving. No matter how good your lodge is or has been, you have the remainder of this year to make it even better. Communication is the key to a successful year! You hold that key in your hand. Use it to unlock your lodge’s full potential. 

The American Hobo Fraternal Life on the Iron Trail - Part II So, what could possibly happen at a Hobo Convention? Well, elections, weddings, and memorial services. One would surmise By: M∴W∴Peter Iacobucci, P.G.M. that being such free spirits and wandering the country there wouldn’t be any hierarchy among them. Not true! Every year they Previously I mentioned the jungle and campfires where the hobos elected a King and a Queen. This process was complete with gathered for social interaction, but it was more than that. After a political style campaigning, speeches, and even a float for the lonesome ride it was a place of security and comfort accented by winners. This is a highly contested race and an honor to win. Once the best part of all, food and storytelling. I am not sure which was elected the King and Queen ride a float through the streets. It isn’t best, but they naturally went in hand-in-hand. In any jungle the just a political race but one of friendships, brotherly love, and fun. “Crumb Boss” is most important of all. The Crumb Boss is in- One year was very special as the Queen, Angel, was actually a charge of making and/or coordinating the food. They have a member of the Britt, Iowa community. She was known as the lady reserved sign/spot for parking his butt right near the pavilion. All who collects the cans from garbage around town. Angel was food is free, and Mulligatawny Stew is a traditional favorite. The championed to win because she’s an underdog. The hobos stew is made of a variety of donated ingredients which I don’t doubt wanted her to have her time to shine. By the same token, could be quite interesting. However, when travelling, noodles and Minneapolis Jim was voted and crowned King. He was diagnosed beans are a staple. They are easy to carry and cook. with terminal cancer and it was his last year to attend the convention.

Weddings are a major event for everyone with lots of dancing and hoopla. Instead of holding flowers, the bride and groom both hold a stick of rhubarb. They throw the leaves of the rhubarb in the fire because the leaves are the bitter part of the rhubarb. It symbolizes letting go of bad things. Weddings aren’t complete without wedding vows that embody the hobo culture of acceptance of each other: Wedding Vows, we are in accord with the following:

1. You are the way you are, and it’s OK for you to be that way.

2. May my love for you always be greater than my need for you.

3. May I always do what’s right even if it’s not what I want.

Although we think of Hobos as loners, they do enjoy camaraderie 4. To help you be a success in your way. and a good story. Late night is the best time to exchange stories and brag about the different train type they rode and the many At times there is a small cabin available for their wedding night and possible honeymoon if they don’t travel. interesting destinations. They exchanged important information of places they visited as well as tall tales of danger and heroic deeds. One of the most important and emotional ceremonies at the Information exchange was vital because once on a train many convention is the Memorial Service. Memorial services are hobos have no predetermined destination. Wherever the rails take performed for all the hobos or retired hobos who passed that year. them! All attendees gather and wear a strip of burlap for their fallen friend One important destination is the yearly Hobo Convention. This in remembrance of the rough life and meager life they lived. was a huge event held in Britt, Iowa. This convention has been Another ritual is tapping the graves with a walking stick. It is an held continually for the past 112 years or so. Britt is a small town emotional time for all who travelled or communed in the Jungle of nearly 2,000 residence and only three local waterholes. Every (continued on page 10) Page 10 March/April/May 2020 ______

(continued from Page 9, The American Hobo) legendary George Washington Desk, that had been recently purchased by the Grand Lodge in honor of the nation’s with them. Many were quite famous even to those outside the hobo Bicentennial. ranks. For example: Utah Phillips, who was an avid train hopper and one of the Twentieth Century’s best- known hobo musicians. His most well-known song, “Moose Turd Pie”, describes his time working on the rails in the Southwest.

Maurice “Steam Train Maury” Graham who was a five-time King and became famous because of his many stories about being on the road.

Emmett Kelly known as “Weary Willie” and stage and film stars who portrayed hobos such as Charlie Chaplin “Lil Tramp” and Red Skelton as “Freddie the Freeloader”. Imagine from the horrors of our Civil War and the necessity to carve out a new life from which emerged a culture of brotherhood that has spanned over 112 years and provided us with much fascination. Yet, within the hobo community, they shared many of the same principles Freemasons do. Secret signs, symbols, brotherly love, care and relief for each other, always met on the level, and a fraternity

dedicated to a unique lifestyle. 

A Masonic Treasure Reprinted from the July/August RI Freemason

George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the new republic on April 30, 1789 in front of a vast multitude in the open gallery of the old City Hall in New York. The oath of office was administered by Robert R. Livingston, then Chancellor of the The faithful reproduction, beautifully crafted in mahogany was State of New York, and the open bible upon which the President produced by the Kittinger Company of Buffalo, New York. The laid his hand was the Masonic Bible borrowed for the ceremony company was founded in 1866, and from 1937 to 1990 it was the from St. John’s Lodge in New York City. chief furniture reproduction maker for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Today, these vintage reproductions are highly sought Among the distinguished gentlemen on hand were John Adams, after and are considered to be among the finest pieces of furniture who had been chosen to be Vice President, and George Clinton, produced in America in the 20th Century. In fact, a number of Governor of New York. The crimson velvet cushion upon which the Kittinger reproductions can still be found in the White House, Masonic Bible rested was held by Mr. Otis, Secretary of Senate. Washington, DC. The “George Washington Desk” remains the After taking the oath of office and kissing the sacred book, centerpiece of the office of the Grand Master in East Providence Washington closed his eyes and said, in true Masonic tradition, So

Help Me God!” Chancellor Livingston then exclaimed, “It is done,” and then turning to the people he shouted, “Long live George A Masonic Knights Templar Plaque

Washington, the first President of the United States.” The first By: R∴W∴Richard Lynch, Curator/Librarian

Presidential mansion was in New York and was provided for Recently I received an email from Mark Tabbert Museum and Washington by Congress. Among the furnishings of the first Library Director of the George Washington Masonic Memorial. He Presidential office was a fine writing desk, in what is now called had received an email from the owners of Brimfield Barn Antiques the Sheraton style, which embodies simplicity of outline, carefully (MA) about a bronze plaque that they had recently acquired and considered proportions and sparing use of classic motif. When the were seeking additional information. Mark forwarded this email capital was relocated in Philadelphia, the desk remained in New with images of the plaque and asked that we might investigate. York. Today, the original desk is enshrined in the Governor’s Room, City Hall, New York. The plaque is a large 3’X3’ casting commissioned by Washington Brother Kenneth W. Jencks, Most Worshipful Commandery No. 4 Newport, RI as a gift to Springfield Past Grand Master, began his term as Grand Commandery No. 6 Massachusetts, on their pilgrimage to Rhode Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island on Island in October 1888. The plaque was signed with two names, May 17, 1976 and as the Grand Lodge offices Charles Dowler (KT) and Edwin Baker (KT). moved from Dorrance Street in Providence to The antique dealer was looking for any information that could be the Scottish Rite Cathedral on Broad Street in provided about plaque and the names listed on it. It should be Cranston, among the furnishings in the Grand Master’s new office was a replica of the (continued on page 13)

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 11

2020 Rhode Island Masonic Scholarship Sources and Information

There are many scholarships available to children and grandchildren of members of Masonic Lodges in Rhode Island. There are also scholarships available to members of the Order of Rainbow for Girls and members of the Order of DeMolay. Some of the lodges have their own scholarship programs as do some Eastern Star Chapters and other Concordant Bodies. This list is our attempt to inform as many members and their families about those scholarships that are available, their basic requirements, and contact persons.

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island

The Masonic Grand Lodge of Rhode Island administers numerous scholarship programs, including the Fletcher Fund’s Masonic Youth Foundation program. Request forms and information from Masonic Grand Lodge Charities of RI, Inc., attention: Scholarship Committee, 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 or call the Grand Lodge office at 401-435-4650. Grand Lodge also has scholarships available to non-Masonic applicants.

The forms must be 100% accurately filled out and be received in the Grand Lodge office no later than 4:00 PM on Monday, April 15, 2020. There are no exceptions.

Scottish Rite Valley of Providence Abbott Scholarship

Currently enrolled freshman, sophomore, junior or senior at an accredited college or university. A minimum grade point average of 2.75 on a

4.0 scale. Freshman scholarships will be distributed after an acceptable GPA is submitted, following the first semester.

A child of a Scottish Rite Mason in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

A member of a youth organization sponsored by the Masonic fraternity in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

A graduate of one of the 32 degree Masonic Learning Centers for Children in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Not available to entering freshmen.

Albert P. Ruérat Scholarship. For active DeMolay boys only

Call Maria at the Scottish Rite office, 401-461-2480 for scholarship forms. If she is not available, Tom Yeaw can help. The office is open Monday – Thursday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The forms must be submitted in duplicate and must be in the hands of Scottish Rite no later than April 1, 2020. Scottish Rite 2115 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905.

Scholarships offered by Eastern Star and Rainbow

Grand Chapter of Rhode Island, O.E.S. & Eastern Star Foundation of RI Inc.

1. General Education Scholarships are available to those who have a State of Rhode Island Eastern Star or Masonic relationship or to those who were or who are a member in good standing of Rainbow or DeMolay in the State of Rhode Island. Scholarships are available for sophomore, junior, senior, and post-graduate years in college.

2. Estarl Scholarships are for those preparing for leadership roles in various fields of religious service including ministers, priests, missionaries, church music directors, and church youth directors and counselors. The scholarship does not require a Masonic,

Eastern Star, Rainbow, or DeMolay relationship.

3. Eastern Star Foundation of Rhode Island Inc.

4. There is a Music Scholarship Fund which is not for college attendance. It offers scholarship assistance to anyone for organ lessons, providing an applicant commits to play for her/his Chapter or Assembly.

Applications for the above three scholarships can be obtained from Mrs. Kathryn A. Newman, Grand Secretary, 65 Ethan Street, Warwick, RI 02888, 401-228-8499, [email protected]. They are also available on the Grand Chapter website at www.gcrioes.org. The deadline for all completed scholarship applications is April 30.

Adah Chapter No. 15, Applications for the following scholarships may be obtained from Mrs. Frances M. Kane, 95 Farnum Road, Warwick, RI 02888, 401-463-8367, [email protected]. The deadline for all completed scholarship applications is April 30.

The Round Scholarship is for current members in good standing and those with a majority from a Rhode Island Rainbow Assembly,

preference given to members of East Greenwich Assembly No 4.

The Gardiner Scholarship is for members, children and grandchildren of Adah Chapter and the former Martha Chapter.

Nestell Chapter Scholarship is for those who have an Eastern Star relationship with members of the former Nestell Chapter. The

application can be obtained from Carol-Ann King 110 Biscuit City Rd. Charlestown, RI 02813.

Philia Chapter Scholarship is for a first-year college student who will graduate from Ponagansett High School. For more information or for an application, please contact Mrs. Larry Thienel, 37 Davis Road, North Scituate, RI 02857, 401-474-2190,

[email protected].

East Greenwich Assembly No. Applicant must be an active member of East Greenwich Assembly No. 4 who has had 3 years perfect attendance and has earned all merit bars and a Pot of Gold. Applications can be obtained from Mrs. Barbara Parisella, Outside Trustee, 305 John Franklin Road, Hope, RI 02831, 401-487-4473, [email protected]. The deadline for all completed scholarship applications in June 15.

Page 12 March/April/May 2020 ______

Grand Assembly of Rhode Island/Rhode Island Rainbow Girls Foundation Inc.

Scholarships are available for Rainbow Girls who are members in good standing in a Rhode Island Rainbow Assembly. Applicants must first apply during senior year in high school and may apply for four consecutive years. You must have a 2.0 grade point average and be a full-time student with at least 12 credit hours per semester. Applications may be obtained from your Mother Advisor, the chairperson of the Scholarship Committee, or downloaded from the Rainbow website, www.rirainbowgirls.org.

Deadline for all completed scholarship applications is June 15.

If you do not complete the year for which the scholarship is granted, it is expected that the amount of the scholarship will be repaid to the applicable grantor fund.

St. Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence

The scholarship is for the sons, daughters, and grandchildren of living St. Johns lodge members plus one Rainbow Girl and one DeMolay Boy. Minimum GPA for acceptance: 2.75 of a scale of 4.0. Mail or email a request for an application to: Secretary, Wyman P Hallstrom, Jr., [email protected]. The completed form must be postmarked no later than April 30, 2020.

Harmony Lodge No. 9

The scholarship is available to sons and daughters of members of Harmony Lodge No. 9. Contact: Robert Kempf, Secretary at [email protected]

Hope Lodge No. 25

A scholarship is awarded annually to a student who is a member or a close relative to a member of Hope Lodge No. 25, A.F. & A.M. Wakefield, RI on the basis of academic achievement and financial need. Student must attend URI and fill out the appropriate university and federal financial aid forms to be considered for this award. The applications are administered by URI, not the Lodge. Income from endowment for a scholarship awarded recipient is selected by URI Enrollment Services, not the lodge. http://web.uri.edu/catalog/files/scholarships-awards.pdf

Adelphoi Lodge No. 33

This scholarship is available to sons, daughters, grandchildren of members of Adelphoi Lodge No. 33 and members of RI Rainbow or RI DeMolay. Applications are available through the secretary, Edward Kdonian at [email protected]

Redwood Lodge No. 35

The Redwood Scholarship is for children and grandchildren of a member of Redwood Lodge. An applicant can receive a scholarship once and for the first year of college only. The due date for applications is June 3, 2020. Applications available from the secretary, Samuel Miller, 401-523-5720, [email protected]

Grand Commandery of York Rite Masons Scholarships are for junior and senior college students only

Request an application from the Grand Recorder and Grand Secretary: [email protected] 617-426-1973. The application must be received no later than April 30, 2020.

Providence Chapter of Royal Arch Masons

This scholarship is for the children and grandchildren of living or deceased members of the Providence Chapter only, plus Rainbow Girls and DeMolay Boys. Send a request for a scholarship form to: Mazen Alsabe at [email protected]. An email request is preferred. The request for an application must be submitted by the student (applicant) and be received no later than March 31.

Calvary Commandery No. 13 of York Rite Masons

For the family members and descendants of Calvary Commandery members only. Contact James Ogilvie at [email protected] or 401- 954-8334 for an application. Available only to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Scholarships are awarded on a first come, first granted basis.

Applications may be submitted January 1 through July 31, 2020.

Robert J. Allen Medical Equipment Distribution Center

One of our obligations as Masons is to help those in need, especially a fellow brother or his family. The Medical Equipment Distribution Center does this in ways that are truly inspiring. In this troubled economy, many are without proper medical insurance or insurance of any kind. Because of sickness or unemployment, those in need of hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers, etc. would not be able to obtain these without the help of our services! Everyone we deal with is most grateful for the services we offer, free of charge to Mason or non-Mason. We also accept donations of all types of equipment, make pickups, and deliveries. We move a lot of equipment but have one great shortage, YOU!

We are located at the second entrance gate at the Masonic-Shrine Youth Park at 116 Long Avenue in the Buttonwoods section of Warwick.

For more information contact Brother George Donahue on the Medical Equipment Center cell phone at 401-451-0184. You can also email us at [email protected]. Is important that we know you are coming so that we can schedule pickups, deliveries and maintenance work accordingly. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 13

(continued from Page 10, Knights Templar Plaque) Charles was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on May 24, 1871, passed to the degree of Fellow Craft on April 7, 1871, raised to the

degree of Master Mason on May 10, 1871, and signed the by-laws on this date and became a member of the lodge. The year 1870-

71 was the year of greatest membership activity for What Cheer Lodge. They received 125 petitions for membership, rejected 63,

and 62 were approved. Charles was a member of a class of 62 men! What Cheer Lodge raised all 62 to Master Mason!

We also have a record that he was member of all the York Rite bodies and was undoubtedly a Knights Templar as evidenced by

his signature followed by a “KT” after his name as carved on the casting.

The other name that appears on the casting is the name Edwin noted that Washington Commandery is no longer in existence as Baker which is a name that was familiar to me. Edwin is a Past it merged with Godfrey de Bouillon Commandery No. 4 in New Master of What Cheer Lodge elected on November 30, 1868. He Bedford, MA in 2000. Unfortunately, the records of Washington later served as secretary of the lodge from 1874 to 1900! He like Commandery are unknown. At the Grand Lodge Library, we have Charles was a member or Providence Chapter and Council No.1, little information about the commandery. I was however able to find and, was a member of Calvary Commandery No. 13. Brother information on the two names engraved on the plaque. Baker also served as Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge elected on May 20,1872. Charles Dowler was born in Birmingham, England in 1841, and came to America in 1863 to make munitions for the Union effort In the 1800s and early-mid 1900s Templarly was at its peak. during the Civil War. After the war ended, Dowler embraced the Pilgrimages, encampments, and triennials were important events “American Dream,” deciding to abandon his profession as a for all sir knights, and every commandery supported these events gunsmith and pursue a career as an artist. He had a successful with large attendance. I am certain that when Springfield career working in numerous mediums including sculpture, Commandery’s pilgrimage was announced, that Edwin was certain woodcarving, plaster, and jewelry making. His notable public, local to attend. When it was made known that Washington works include the John Sparks Monument in Bristol and the Collyer Commandery wanted to commemorate the event with a plaque, Monument in Pawtucket. Additionally, his smaller wooden carvings Sir Knight Edwin would have recommended Charles Dowler, as a are highly regarded in the Folk-Art community and are sought after friend and member of his lodge as a possible artist. Dowler was by collectors. already well known as an accomplished artist of the day. This is how I believe the two names came to appear on the plaque. He built a home, a 1½ story home a cottage ornée, or decorated cottage, a building style popular in the 1860s and 1870s. It is an elaborately decorated Second Empire structure, with an asymmetrical T layout, detailed decoration in the dormers which pierce the fish-scale-shingled mansard roof, and a porch in the crook of the T which is supported by Corinthian columns. The house still exists today at 581 Smith Street Providence and is on the National Historic Register.

Being an accomplished artist and craftsman, it was probable that he might also be a Freemason. I checked our Grand Lodge records and soon found that Charles was indeed a brother. He was a member of What Cheer Lodge No. 21 only a short distance from his home. The lodge was located at the end of Smith street on Top L- R: Charles Dowler house, Folk-Art Cigar Store Carving. South Main street, a short buggy or trolley ride from his home. Bottom L- R: Collyer Monument Casting – Pawtucket,RI, Dowler family monument, North Burial Ground, Providence, RI

If any brother or Sir Knight has any additional information they can

share on the plaque and its history, please contact Eric Schultz at 413-657-0542 or [email protected]. Please also copy

me on this information. 

Page 14 March/April/May 2020 ______

Steak Fry Fund Raiser Interesting Historical Facts of Freemasonry Above and Beyond the Call of Duty In Rhode Island Award Presentation Selected from a review of the Friday May 8, 2020 Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge 7th Installment Club Frontenac 1143 Main Street West Warwick, RI

5/21/1906 Complete list of names of all members of lodges 6:00 PM Social Hour 7:00 PM Dinner published. More than $3,000 was collected from lodges and Family and Friends Invited $27.00 per person contributed to aid persons in need resulting from earthquake For Tickets Contact: Bradford L. Barco, PGM and fire in San Francisco. In 1907 about 20 percent of that amount was returned because of extreme generosity of all 761 Nooseneck Hill Road West Greenwich, RI 02817 [email protected] 401-397-3226 / 401-487-4336 Grand Lodges. This was distributed to all lodges making contributions.

Statement of Ownership, Management 6/9/1908 Monument erected in pasture field at Foster and Circulation commemorating the event of an open-air meeting of Hamilton Lodge No. 15, held 6/9/1834 on property of W∴Jerah Hill. The Publication Title: Rhode Island Freemason stairs to the lodge room had been removed by a perverse Publication # USPS: 366-750 landlord. Entrance was obtained by means of a ladder and Issue Frequency: Quarterly Mailing Address: 222 Taunton Ave. necessary equipment obtained and usual business transacted. East Providence, RI 02914 (The record does not show a special dispensation obtained!) Headquarters: 222 Taunton Ave. East Providence, RI 02914 5/15/1910 The plans for erecting a memorial building to the Contact: Michael Barboza 401-435-4650

memory of George Washington at Alexandria, Virginia is Publisher: Grand Lodge of Rhode Island endorsed by the Grand Lodge, Past Grand Master Arthur H. Address: 222 Taunton Ave. Armington, chairman of the committee appointed by the Grand East Providence, RI 02914 Master, attended the planning meetings at Alexandria. All Managing Editor: Ronald P. Reed Editor: Richard Lynch Grand Lodges were represented. Rhode Island Freemason 11/14/1910 Grand Lodge is advised that the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of USA had established a Average Total Copies: 3093 Single Issue nearest filing date: 3363 memorial and monument fund to erect a monument in memory Mailed outside county, paid subscriptions, to Henry Warren Rugg, Past Grand Master of the Grand exchange copies, (average): 2156 Encampment. They invited Grand Lodge of Rhode Island and Mailed in County, paid subscriptions: 782 Free or Nominal Rate copies: 100 the Grand Commandery of MA/RI to appoint a member to the Total distribution average: 2938 Board of Trustees of the Fund. Copies not distributed average: 55 Total sum: 3093 To be continued. Latest circulation date: Sep./Oct./Nov. 2019

RI Freemason From the Editor 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,

Deadline: February 1st Brother Richard Lynch Editor: R∴W∴Richard F. Lynch

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

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 15

members, a past master and secretary for many years, Brother Report from the Masonic Districts David Mower. The Master and brothers of the lodge paid fitting tribute to him with a Masonic Memorial service for the family and

METRO DISTRICT those in attendance, which included our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Kenneth F. Poyton. St. John’s has long had a tradition of RWDouglas J. Grant, DDGM spreading its cable-tow far and wide for their brothers and Masonic Brethren, as I write this article, Mike and I are sadly reminded that family. May W∴Mower’s family feel the consolation and comfort of our time in the districts as a DDGM and GMC team is coming to a brotherly love during this difficult time. close. As most other DDGM’s in the past have said, “I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown by”. Mike and I are so appreciative Washington Lodge, No. 3 also paid tribute to its very own of the kindness and thoughtfulness that the lodges have shown us W∴Robert Sinclair, a distinguished past master who sat in the East over the last five years. We have so many good memories of the several times. The officers led by W∴Christopher Lopez also in the many times we have spent in all the lodges. And although we are presence of our Grand Master who continues to demonstrate his sure that there will be many more visits to the lodges going great care and concern for grieving family and brothers, was also forward, it has meant a lot to us to have been able to visit with you present at the Masonic service held in Brother Sinclair’s honor. As officially and unofficially. a testament to this outstanding brother, the East Bay decided to host a Burns Supper in his honor as its Annual Charity Event. It We have been very fortunate to have been supported by all of you was a delightful gathering which included Brother Sinclair’s widow as we made our official visitations. As well, we enjoyed installing and had great representation from the East Bay District and the masters and officers of the lodges in all of the districts. Our beyond. It has often been said, that when we remember someone, goal was always to support the lodges and to make our institution in this case our dear brother, their presence in our minds and stronger. hearts brings them to life in us at that very moment. If that is not proof that they live on in eternal life, I don’t know what is. Now that our time is running short, I would like to remind all the brethren in all of the districts of the importance of tending to your Brandt and I also had the distinction of installing the officers of St. lodges. Many of the duties that are explained to the officers when Alban’s Lodge No. 6 at the beginning of this year. Congratulations they are installed are meant to be a guide to assist in describing to W∴Timothy Pray and his distinguished officer line. The lodge is how to perform the tasks associated with the office. There are small in numbers, but large in commitment with the continued many more tasks that are related to each office and many times presence of its dedicated brothers who attend the meetings month these other small tasks can be the difference between the success after month. Recently refurnished, St. Alban’s lodge room is a of a lodge and the failure of the same. I am hoping that every officer living testimony of the tenacity of its members who recognize that and every brother in our great jurisdiction takes time to reflect on the lodge is not just the building, but primarily their brotherhood. their contributions to their lodges. Are you doing all that you can Wherever the members of St. Alban’s gather, the lodge is there! to be sure that your lodge is strong and actively subscribing to the We look forward to our official visitation to the lodge, in the near tenets of our institution or are you just saying the words? Are you future! stretching forth a helping hand to a worthy distressed brother or are you too busy with your own issues? As a lodge, are you looking Congratulations are also owed to our Grand Historian and after the widows of Masons that have passed on or have you Worshipful Master of St. Paul’s Lodge, No. 14 in Middletown, forgotten that they too contributed to our success? The R∴W∴David C. Lavery and his line of officers for a very successful sustainability of your lodge is directly dependent on the year. We were pleased to install W∴Josh Manfredo and his officers contributions that you make. Today is the day that you need to as Brother Lavery’s successor. Brother Manfredo is no stranger step up and do something that will ensure the future of your lodge. to the East and has diligently already planned the lodge’s year with Don’t wait until tomorrow. many interesting events and programs. A special word of thanks is owed to W∴Jason Nystrom GMC for the Central District for his We are a society of friends and brothers that subscribe to a higher assistance that evening. Brandt and I look forward to our visitation set of standards. It is our individual responsibility to not only to St. Paul’s Lodge. maintain and practice those standards but to be sure that we are, as a lodge or jurisdiction, constantly reminding each other by good It has certainly been a year of transition for St. Andrew’s Lodge, council, the errors that we might be making that would erode the No. 39. As you are read this article, the lodge has now merged same. By doing this on a consistent basis, we will be a stronger with Jenks Lodge No. 24. Fittingly, the lodge will be meeting at St. society and better be enabled to spread the tenets of our society Andrew’s temple so an appropriate homage continues to to our communities. As such, we will change our world into a better distinguish what is now a historical lodge. The Grand Master place for all of us. presided over a very beautiful merger ceremony in February and we were all privileged to be a part of that moment. R∴W∴Michael May the blessings of heaven rest upon us and all regular Masons, C. Northup Grand Marshal deftly and astutely maintained the good may brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue order of the lodge as the outgoing Master of St. Andrew’s W∴Bill cement us.  Gervais and the Master of Jenks Lodge, the ever ebullient EAST BAY DISTRICT W∴Anthony Amaral joined forces in a moving tribute to both RW André H. Faria, Jr., DDGM lodges. A special word of congratulations and gratitude also is owed to R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant DDGM of the Metro District and a Congratulations to W∴Thomas Warren who assumed the East at long-time member of St. Andrew’s who worked hard to ensure that St. John’s Lodge No. 1. It was truly special for Brandt and me to the lodge was prepared for its merger. R∴W∴Doug had the have the opportunity to install the officers of my mother lodge. privilege of giving a very beautiful program during St. Andrew’s last W∴Warren has assembled a great line of officers who stand ready meeting in January. R∴W∴Doug’s father, grandfather, and son to take the lodge into the future. A special word of thanks is also were/are also members of the lodge, four generations, and so it extended to W∴Douglas Siple, a 50-Year Masonic Service Medal was fitting that he was the mouthpiece for the lodge’s final tribute. holder who did a terrific job as Master over the past year and now Jenks Lodge now has the good fortune of having many gets to enjoy the fruits of his labor. On another note, the lodge was (continued on page 16) saddened to mourn the passing of one of its long-standing

Page 16 March/April/May 2020 ______

(continued from Page 15, East Bay District) January 25, 2020 to install W∴Norman “Skip” Priestley and his line distinguished and dedicated brothers join its ranks. of officers. All of us on the installing suite wish you the greatest Congratulations to all involved as they continue to strengthen the success in the upcoming year. bonds of friendship and brotherly love. Our visitations in the District have been equally rewarding. Brother Brandt and I also had the good fortune to be present in a very full Rick and I made a visit to Friendship Lodge No 7 when we lodge room for the installation of officers of Adelphoi Lodge No. 33. presented two 50-year Veterans Medals to Bothers David Lohr Congratulations to W∴Bill Pennoyer for a very successful year in and Larry Berk. It was fantastic to see these Brothers renew old the East. We also look forward to a great year with W∴Pat Paolo friendships in the lodge. We were also thrilled to visit Morning Star assuming the East with the assistance of his distinguished officer Lodge No. 13 on December 5, 2019 to present a California 50-year line. It was an honor to have R∴W∴Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr. join us Golden Veterans Award to W∴Richard Picard. But not to be that evening and obligate the new Master at his request. We were outdone, I was privileged to present a 25-year certificate to also happy to see such a distinguished contingent of Grand Lodge M∴W∴Douglas Connell, a true honor. These are the highlights of officers led by R∴W∴Gary S. Kaufman, Deputy Grand Master any District Deputy’s tour in his district. accompanied by W∴Melvin E. Silverio GMC. Patti and I had the opportunity to visit a Past Master of Mt. Moriah As the Masonic year winds down, we look forward to getting Lodge No. 8 to present him with his 50-year Veterans’ Medal. He together with the brothers of the districts at the upcoming Grand asked us to visit him at home for the presentation since he does Master’s visitations that we will be attending. It’s a wonderful not attend lodge regularly. We found out many interesting things opportunity for us to break bread and enjoy each other’s company. about this brother, who was a chemical engineer working in the Who in their right mind does not want to spend time with their jewelry industry for his entire career. He worked a second job as brothers? When you are family, getting together is of the very he called it, refereeing hockey games at night. He was nature of its existence. What a blessing to be part of this wonderful tremendously proud of his family. His only regret was that he lost fraternity. his wife 17 years previously, the same year he was going to retire. He was never able to spend any time in retirement with her. He I end by recalling a story that I recently shared in lodge. In January, also missed talking to the brothers from the lodge. This brought the Grand Lodge ladies decided to get together for dinner. This home our Grand Master’s theme this year, take a moment to call usually takes place during a Grand Master’s visitation while the our brothers to see how they are doing. brothers are at lodge, which provides the ladies an opportunity to get together. However, on this particular night, there was no Grand The year 2020 promises to hold further opportunities to feed our Lodge meeting, so we were home for a change while the ladies Masonic values. Rick and I will be visiting Mt. Moriah Lodge No 8 were out. As such, Brandt and I decided that we would get together in February and Lafayette Lodge No. 47 in April. The district will at his home and babysit Otto so that Mary and Beth could enjoy also hold its charity event. We will finish the Masonic year with the the evening free of concern. We also thought, why not invite installation of Roger Williams Lodge No. 32 in May. W∴Jay Nystrom who lives nearby to join us so that he could have As always, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] some practice babysitting since he will soon be a first-time father! or at 401-413-6281 to let us know of any lodge events Rick and I While we were at it, I suggested to brother Humberto Matos, a new should attend. Master Mason who lives close to Brandt to come by the house to practice his proficiency work. Long story short, it was a delightful “I could be handy mending a fuse, evening. This new brother was able to take advantage of his When your lights are gone brothers who had traveled the path he was undertaking, to You can knit a sweater by the fireside, encourage him and offer him what we felt was the many things our Sunday mornings go for a ride fraternity has to offer. If I had never become a Mason, my life would Will you still need me, will you still feed me, not have been enriched by the presence of these men. Moments When I’m sixty-four” like these make me grateful that I had the opportunity to become John Lennon/Paul McCartney a Freemason and it inspires me to live the tenets of our profession CENTRAL DISTRICT to the best of my ability so that we can continue to try and make a RW Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr., DDGM difference in our families, our communities, the places of our usual avocations and the world in which we live.  “It’s not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It’s

because we dare not venture that they are difficult” - Seneca NORTHERN DISTRICT R∴W∴Rick Baccus, DDGM Greetings from the Central District where all brothers are welcome. Nothing ventured, nothing gained is what they say. Recently I’ve “When I get older losing my hair been listening to a podcast called “Philosophize This!” I highly Many years from now recommend it if you are into this sort of thing. The producer goes Will you still be sending me a valentine in depth on many different philosophies and philosophers. He talks Birthday greetings bottle of wine about the unique personalities of many philosophers and the Will you still need me, will you still feed me differences and similarities in their philosophies. He even explains When I’m sixty-four” the difference between Eastern and Western philosophies and John Lennon/Paul McCartney how they are different but, in many ways the same. The speaker The Northern Masonic District has now grown a calendar year doesn’t talk about Freemasonry in particular, but he passionately older, and yet just like the song, we will still need each other to takes you down a rabbit hole into how a different thought process feed the Masonic values of our Brotherhood no matter what age. can change outcomes, even today. I can’t imagine these men of

Brother Rick Lynch and I along with our ladies Kay and Patti in “thought” were not Freemasons. These men had a love of wisdom, attendance have had the pleasure of installing the officers of Mt which is the Greek meaning of philosophy. Love of wisdom, isn’t Moriah Lodge No. 8 on November 1, 2019. My congratulations go that what we are all about as Freemasons? Aren’t we looking for the knowledge that will smooth out the rough spots? Many of our out to W∴Matthew Cerullo and the officers of Mt Moriah. We also had the privilege of traveling to Morning Star Lodge No. 13 on (continued on page 17) ______Rhode Island Freemason Page 17

(continued from Page 16, Central District) Hope Lodge No. 25 will be hosting our official visitation on March great philosophers thought about the importance of living a 11. Perhaps John will garner another toy tractor during the visit! virtuous life. They not only thought about it, they lived it. Isn’t this On April 2 the Grand Master will make his official visitation to the what we are seeking as Freemasons? Through living a virtuous Southern District with the event hosted by Mt. Vernon Lodge No. life, we discover opportunities for a different way of looking at 4. In May, we will be visiting Franklin Lodge again for our official things. Not right or wrong, just different. We discover there are visitation and final duty in the district. many roads to providence. Our time in the Southern District is nearing its end. Please come As in philosophies and philosophers you will find unique visit your brethren in the South, I guarantee a great time!  personality in the lodges of the Central District. As soon as you walk through the doors to any of these lodges you can feel an NEWS FROM AROUND THE LODGES energy that may be different from, say, your mother lodge. Each lodge has its own distinct look and feel, yet it is made up of brothers with unique backgrounds, all under the auspice of the same St. Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence fraternity. Some of us have settled into our mother lodges and do By: W∴Timothy L. Culhane, P.M. not do much traveling except to a district visitation or an annual communication. I encourage you to visit a Central District lodge or We had a very productive autumn and early winter in lodge. We any lodge for that matter. Listed are the masters of the Central are looking forward to an exceptional spring in 2020. At our regular District lodges. Each of these men have earned the right to be communication this past November we were honored to have called Worshipful Master, they are bringing their ideas together author David Brody speak to the lodge about his new book, and creating a stronger lodge, which by osmosis creates a strong “Treasure Templari.” The program was well received, and it is district and stronger fraternity. Thank you! always a pleasure to have David speak to our lodge. We were also honored to have our R∴W∴Gary Kaufmann Deputy Grand The Worshipful Masters of the Central District are: Master in attendance. W∴Earl (Ray) Mann- Ionic Lodge No. 28 W∴Jeffrey Appt- Manchester Lodge No. 12 The December Communication found St. Johns visiting Ezekiel W∴Robert (Bob) Fish- Daylight Lodge No. 48 Bates Lodge in Attleboro, Massachusetts for our traditional joint W∴Patrick Connor- Harmony Lodge No. 9 meeting, held annually. It was a pleasure for our lodges to be together again and it is always an interesting experience to witness Upcoming Central District Visitations: each other’s ritual. Thank you to Ezekiel Bates Lodge for hosting March 3, 2020 Harmony Lodge No. 9 Officer Forum us this year and for your warm and generous hospitality. April 13, 2020 Daylight Lodge No. 48 Grand Master’s Visit to his Mother Lodge During January’s communication the Fellow Craft Degree was May 5, 2020 Harmony Lodge No. 9 conferred upon our candidates; Brothers Armando Barragan-

Jay and I are immensely enjoying our time in the Central District. Tovar, Allen LaMoore, and Matthew Mayers. The Middle Chamber Thank you to all of the brothers for your attention and brotherly lecture was expertly delivered by Brother John B. Paliotta. Congratulations to our new Fellow Craft and to brother Paliotta, as affection. We look forward to greeting you on the level.  well as the Worshipful Master and officers for providing an SOUTHERN DISTRICT excellent degree. RWEric E. Grist., DDGM St. Johns was also busy outside of our communications. On At the time of this writing, John and I have completed three of the Friday, December 13, the annual holiday party hosted by four installations for the year. We recently conducted the first semi- W∴Mazen Alsabe and his lady, Huda, at the Alpine Country Club. public installation of our career at Franklin Lodge No. 20. The It was a wonderful affair and was very well attended. On Saturday, event was well attended by Masons, friends, and family. It was December 23, St. Johns hosted its annual food basket event at the preceded by a fantastic prime rib dinner. I am still holding steady Scottish Rite Masonic Center. Over 100 brothers, family members, in regard to my weight, though the brethren of the Southern District and guests were present, 74 huge food baskets were filled and are not making it easy. distributed to families in need across the state. A special thank- you to our guests and the brothers from all of the other lodges in the jurisdiction who attended and helped, especially our brothers who prepared breakfast that morning.

At our communication for March we will be conferring the Master Mason degree upon all available candidates. The lodge will open at 5:30 PM, dinner after opening, and then the degree work to follow. Please join us if you can on Wednesday, March 18 and support our new brothers.

On April 15, St. Johns will host R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant, our DDGM for his last visitation to the districts. Lodge will open at 6:00 PM with dinner immediately after opening. After dinner the lodge will receive the DDGM. The program for the evening will be a very special guest, author and retired Scotland Yard Detective and Chief Inspector, W∴Mike Neville. He will be speaking on “Crime & the Craft! Masonic links to famous cases of murder, treason & robbery – for good or bad.” We hope that you can join us for this special event. Our May communication is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20. The program for this communication has not Newly installed Master W∴Ralph Brunson and his family are joined by R∴W∴Eric Grist, DDGM and W∴John Kent, GMC and their ladies for a group (Continued on page 18) photo at the Annual Communication. Page 18 March/April/May 2020 ______yet been determined. W∴Mazen Alsabe is planning a “Swing into As you read this Harmony Lodge will have exemplified the Entered Spring” party on Saturday, April 18. Details will be made available Apprentice degree on five candidates, raising them as Masons on once they have been finalized. Also, St. Johns is proud to host our February 1 and starting them on their Masonic journey. On sister lodge, Euclid Lodge from Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, sometime February 4, Brother Kyle Gamache brewed three different craft in the spring of 2020. The date and details are not yet available. beers in preparation for our regular communication for a special beer tasting that followed the meeting. We offer a huge thanks to As always, St. Johns welcomes any brother who would like to join Brother Kyle and to Lisa Dupre who prepared a wonderful meal for us for our stated communications. If you would like to dine with us, the evening that was paired with the craft beer selection. This was please let us know by making reservations by calling brother Bob truly a unique event. Gervais at 401-861-1757 by the Sunday before our scheduled meeting. We hope to have you join us. 

Harmony Lodge No. 9 By: Brother Jan A. Zukowski

Ralph Marston once penned, “Rest when you’re weary, refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work.” Springtime, for us here in Southern New England, allows for us to witness nature return from the rest of a long winter and come back to life. With the change of seasons, we too pick up our working tools with a renewed sense of purpose and brotherhood to continue our work for the betterment of all God’s creatures. As always, we extend our hands and hearts to all our brothers in our Grand Masonic Jurisdiction and beyond, and wish you make Harmony Lodge a part of your travels this spring.

December provided many opportunities for fellowship and charity, starting with the annual wrapping of gifts and decorating of the lodge on The return of spring proves to be just as busy with work in the Craft December 5, in preparation not slowing. Harmony Lodge will be hosting the 42nd Annual for the annual Christmas Brother Henry Rossi Memorial Game Dinner at the Portuguese Party. On December 7 we Club in Cranston on March 1, 2020. On Tuesday March 3, celebrated our annual Harmony will be welcoming R∴W∴Gilbert Fontes our DDGM to the Children’s Christmas Party, lodge for his official visitation. Dinner will be at 6:30 PM and which was a lot of fun. Great meeting will follow at 7:30 PM. On Saturday March 28, Harmony job, to Senior Steward Bill will exemplify the Fellow Craft degree at 11:00 AM with lunch to Laliberte for planning a follow. Reservations can be made through the Harmony Lodge wonderful day and thanks to website or by contacting Senior Steward Bill LaLiberte. Chaplian Ralph Carlini for providing a reading of “Twas On April 4, we will be holding our annual lodge Easter Egg hunt. the Night Before Christmas” The event starts at noon, rain or shine, with lunch and activities for for the children. Harmony’s Holiday Luncheon with the ladies of the kids, including a petting zoo! The main event, the Easter Egg Harmony was held on December 28 and included an entertaining hunt in the lodge will follow lunch. This event has been a lot of fun performance by the Holiday Victorian Carolers. in the past and looks to be just as much fun this year! Please contact Junior Steward Jan Zukowski at 401-837-1747 for more Fidelity Chapter of RI DeMolay hosted “Cha-cha for Charity” on information and reservations. Harmony’s regular communication January 11 at the Scottish Rite. I believe I speak for everyone that on Tuesday, April 7 will be anything but regular. Our evening will the young men along with the young ladies of Rainbow Girls put start with Woodridge Rainbow girls’ April Fools Dinner (Breakfast) on a wonderful event with the proceeds going to help Cranston at 6:30 PM. All donations for April’s dinner will go to help send our High School East start their ballroom dance program. Harmony is eight Rainbow girls from Woodridge to Maine for Grand Assembly. truly proud of our Senior Deacon Jeremey Newton who helped Please come and support them and stay for our meeting as we will organize this charity event and look forward to supporting his have the young ladies of Woodridge Assembly perform the efforts growing this charity. Rainbow Degree on a few brothers! On April 19, the Walk-In Harmony group will be at Goddard Park for the annual “RI Brain Tumor Walk.” We will be meeting at 8:30 AM and all are welcome to attend and take part. For more information please contact Brother Rob Lindberg at 401-241-3117. On April 25, we will be hosting the Grand Master’s Testimonial Dinner to be held at Twelve Acres in Smithfield at 6:30 PM. All reservations for the Grand Master’s Testimonial Dinner must be received prior to April 19.

May starts out with the Grand Master’s visitation to Harmony his mother lodge on May 5. Dinner will start at 6:30 PM with the lodge meeting starting at 7:30 PM. Reservations can be made on the lodge website or by contacting Senior Steward Bill LaLiberte at 401-499-7696. Harmony will host our Ladies of Harmony Spring

(continued on page 19)

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 19

(continued from Page18, Harmony Lodge) Past Master’s jewels which we purchased six to eight Luncheon at Twin Oaks on Saturday, May 2. On Saturday, May 9 months ago. I had personally the brethren will be out visiting the sick and infirmed. put them in the safe for “safe To close out the spring, we will be holding a Master Mason degree keeping.” I told W∴Dan that on Saturday June 6 from 2:00 – 8:00 PM with dinner to follow. they were in one of the small Harmony will also be having their “Ancient Masonic Feast” at the wooden drawers. He looked Anawan Club. More information will be available soon for this and could only find two of the event. five and he wasn’t sure if they were the correct ones. I told As always, please refer to www.harmony9.org and the monthly him that I would be down the trestleboard for specific details, including instructions for placing next day to look. Like W∴Dan, reservations, and upcoming dates and events. Please continue to I only found two of the five. support your lodge and participate as you are able.  Had I only put two in the

Morning Star Lodge No. 13 wooden drawer and hid the rest? Maybe a “senior By: R∴W∴Justin Molitar, P.M. moment”! So, I started Greetings all, searching through several of the cubbie holes in the safe with no On January 25, Morning Star Lodge held its annual com- luck. I then pulled out the small wooden drawer to see if maybe munication and election of officers. I couldn't help myself from they fell out the back but found nothing but a small paper booklet. feeling both a type of emptiness and happiness. Not just any small paper booklet but the original by-Laws of Franklin Lodge, which were adopted on February 4th, 1857. They Emptiness because we had lost so many men over the year that I were printed by James H. Hoyt, the first Master of Franklin Lodge. was proud to be able to call my brothers. Empty because as I sat in the secretary's chair I kept gazing at the photo that we have As for the missing Past Master jewels, I’m sure they’ll show up displayed in the east of our departed Master John Schierenbeck, eventually.  while thinking to myself how tragic it was that he was so happy to Jenks Lodge No. 24 be installed Master, and he wasn’t even able to preside over a By: Brother Mark Lamastro single meeting. But on the other hand, I felt great joy to see so many brothers at the lodge to help celebrate our annual As the cold and dark of winter is upon us, the brothers of Jenks communication, a new line of officers ready to take Morning Star Lodge continue to look for light in this new Masonic year. In into another decade, and to see W∴Priestley receive a Certificate January we had our annual communication in which we welcomed of Appreciation from Grand Lodge for stepping up this year as our new Worshipful Master Anthony Amaral to the East. We Master and doing his all to make this year just how W∴John thanked our outgoing Master, David Sousa for a great year, where envisioned it to be. the lodge went through many unexpected changes, most importantly the merger with Saint Andrews Lodge. W∴Priestley has laid out his plans for 2020 and we look forward to a wonderful year at Morning Star full of degree work and exciting The merger with St Andrews Lodge was scheduled for Monday presentations. Please join us in the Great North if you can! We look February 24, a ceremony that would change the history of a great forward to seeing everyone.  lodge but at the same time it would be a joyous event that brought two lodges with so many good men together to become one strong Franklin Lodge No. 20 and unified and united lodge. By: W∴Ray Geer, P.M. Due to the pending sale of the Pawtucket Temple for a public “In the Rubbish of the Temple” works project, Jenks Lodge will now officially meet at St. Andrews Franklin Lodge has a large Temple at 18 Turner Avenue in Riverside, for all our forthcoming Mosler safe tucked in a closet meetings.

under one of its stairways and Upcoming Events: is somewhat hidden by a significant amount of rubble. Monday, April 27, 2020 Once we found the Stated communication, dinner at 6:00 PM, meeting at 7:00 PM. combination (another story) Presentation by David Lathery. Synopsis: The development of and were able to open the Rhode Island is a story governed by the sea and commercial trade. safe, we found a treasure The development of Freemasonry in Rhode Island was rooted in trove of the lodge’s Masonic the mercantile development of the colony and continued to History. I’ve spent hours dominate its future throughout the long Eighteenth Century. At a looking at the several items in special joint meeting of the Collegivm Lvminosvm research lodge the safe including minutes and Jenks Lodge on April 27, David will focus in on the most violent and ledgers from late 1857 split to have occurred in the first 100 years of Freemasonry that forward and other very led to the first two lodges going dark before the beginning of the interesting memorabilia like Revolutionary War for American independence. Rhode Island's our original charter and glass plate negatives of the first fifteen entire economy and way of life was threatened by the changes Masters of Franklin Lodge. I am sure that I have touched every enacted by parliament in the 1760s, and that pressure was so item and reviewed every piece of paper in the safe. divisive as to tear apart the fabric of Freemasonry. This split directly affects Rhode Island Freemasonry to this day in the way it That was until a few weeks ago! I received a call from our Secretary, W∴Dan Rzewuski who was looking for the five new (continued on page 20)

Page 20 March/April/May 2020 ______

(continued from Page 19, Jenks Lodge) building with us that evening, as well as M∴W∴Peter Iacobucci, PGM for closing the meeting. allowed the re-development of the Craft from its original practices to a mixture of "ancient" and "modern" styles of symbolic The Annual Communication for the COLLEGIVM is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at St. Albans Lodge in Bristol. We will Freemasonry. be opening at 6:30 PM. All Master Masons are welcome. Monday, May 11, 2020 The next communication for the COLLEGIVM will be on (Note: this is not our regular meeting night) Stated communication, Wednesday, April 29 with the location and opening time to be dinner at 6:00 PM, meeting at 7:00 PM, presentation by brother determined. We have several different programs available for the Ryan Flynn. Synopsis: The only time in our degrees when we night, but the decision on which program has not been decided direct our candidates to answer a question with an answer that is yet. not their own is when we direct them to say they desire “light”. This simple word is the key to understanding the ultimate goal of the One of the goals for the COLLEGIVM is to foster research in fraternity and is seldom discussed. Together we will discuss what Freemasonry and to encourage brothers to develop and present the concept of “light” truly means to each of us. academic papers and presentations. If you would like to research,

Monday, June 22, 2020 write, or present to the COLLEGIVM, or if you would like assistance Stated communication, dinner at 6:00 PM, meeting at 7:00 PM. with your research, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We Fellow Craft degree to be conferred on our newest brothers. are “your” lodge of research and would like to see all brothers excel Reservations are required for all dinners, email: and succeed in their academic and research projects. [email protected]  As always, dates, times, and details for future communications will be posted in our trestleboard, or on our website (http://www.collegivmlvminosvm.org), our Facebook page, and the Grand Lodge Calendar.

The Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, officers, fellows and scholars of the COLLEGIVM hope that spring brings warmth into your heart and light to your mind. We hope you can join us at one of our stated communications. 

Newly installed Master of Jenks Lodge No. 24, W∴Anthony Amaral and his officers at the Annual Communication in January.

Daylight Lodge No. 48 By: W∴Robert Fish, Master

Spring is a time of renewal and a great time to renew our commitment to the Craft. Daylight Lodge is committed to making our meetings available to all brothers who work evenings or have transportation problems. We meet on the second Monday each month at 10:00 AM at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center. You don’t need to be a member of Daylight Lodge. All brothers are welcome. Contact us ([email protected]) if transportation is a problem, we will do our best to get you to the meeting. 

Collegivm Lvminosvm

By: W∴Timothy Culhane, Chancellor

Greetings from the COLLEGIVM LVMINOSVM. The lodge held a stated communication on Jan 28, 2020 at the Grand Lodge. During our meeting we discussed changes to the by-laws of which three changes were voted to pass, and one change tabled for future discussion. The approved by-laws changes are pending ratification by Grand Lodge. The program of the meeting was a tour of the museum and library. Thanks to curator/librarian R∴W∴Richard Lynch and Brother Johnny Paliotta Associate Librarian for showing and sharing the treasures and resources that we have at our disposal to satisfy our curiosities and for research. Also, a big thank you to the Candidate Forum staff for sharing the

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 21

Page 22 March/April/May 2020 ______

The Grand Lodge of Connecticut

th Welcomes You to the 39 Annual

New England Brotherhood Night

Saturday March 14th, 2020

Hartog Auditorium On October 11-20, 2020, Grand Master elect Gary Kaufman and his Masonicare Campus 74 Cheshire Road, wife, Miriam will lead at trip to the Holy Land where we will learn Wallingford, Connecticut 06492 about Freemasonry by experiencing its very roots. We will also have ------an opportunity to meet with our Israeli brethren in Lodge. Tours of the Masonicare facilities and open house at the Grand Lodge offices The trip is open to all Masons. from 1:00 to 3:00 PM ------Social Hour at 3:00 PM with Hors D’ouevres and Cash Bar

Buffet dinner at 4:00 PM featuring: Mixed Greens / Dinner Rolls Roasted Sirloin Steak

Roasted Salmon Lemon Caper Chicken

Brown Rice Pilaf / Roasted Potatoes

Seasonal Mixed Vegetables Tour Highlights include Assorted Desserts ------Old Jaffa and Masonic Legend of the Apron | Tel Aviv | Ayalon Speaker courtesy of the Grand Lodge of Vermont ------Institute | Dead Sea| Masada | Sea of Galilee | Golan Heights | Reservations are $45.00 per person. Magdala| Jerusalem | Western Wall | Bethlehem | Tower of David All Masons invited. Suggested attire – business suit Museum and Night Spectacular show | Zedekiah's Cave (Solomon's REGISTRATION Quarries) | Church of the Holy Sepulcher | Winery Tour ... AND

www.eventbrite.com/e/new-england- brotherhood-night-dinner-tickets-87242906883 MUCH MORE!

Quote Per Person -Double Occupancy

12 – 14 full paying travelers: $2960/per person plus airfare.

Rate includes 8 days touring with English speaking guide,

all accommodations, entrance fees, and most meals.

R∴W∴Gary Kaufman and Miriam will host an Informational

Meeting at Grand Lodge for anyone interested in learning more The Grand Lodge of Connecticut about the trip on Sunday, March 15 at 1:00 PM. in partnership with The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island Please RSVP: [email protected] to let us know you will be

M∴W∴Melvin Johnson attending. Grand Master of Connecticut

Invites you to the 2020 Grand Historians’ Symposium Overseas Lodge No. 40 Invites You to Attend

March 21, 2020 R W Douglas J. Grant’s Official DDGM Visitation ∴ ∴ Featuring Dr. Margaret C. Jacob, PHD April 14, 2020 Renowned Enlightenment Scholar Distinguished Professor Emeritus, UCLA

Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

33 Marrett Road The Kilwinning Club of Boston will confer a mock Master Mason degree, complete with Lexington, MA 02421 Scottish regalia, drums, and bagpipes. A generous selection of single malt Scotch

whiskeys will be availa ble during the collation to whet your pallets as well as some

$35.00 per person includes luncheon excellent cigars (for those who wish to further enhance the experience). Registration online at:

www.eventbrite.com/e/new-england- Mark your calendars and spread the word. You won’t want to miss this! conference-of-grand-historians-2020-tickets- 92309505215 Meal reservations can be emailed to: [email protected]

______Rhode Island Freemason Page 23

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite

VALLEY OF PROVIDENCE

Need a Lodge Program?

Our Scottish Rite Lodge Ambassadors will be happy to present to your membership and more

especially for your non-Scottish Rite members a PowerPoint Presentation entitled:

“Introduction to Scottish Rite Freemasonry”

Scottish Rite Freemasonry is a way for you to

continue to expand your understanding of Masonic principles and teachings. As you progress through

the degrees, you will find an untold wealth of knowledge. You will more deeply explore questions

raised in the blue lodge degrees. 32° Freemasonry is often considered a “graduate course” in Masonic 18-Holes w/ Cart ──── teachings. Our degrees supplement and reinforce 12:30 PM at the blue lodge in every way. 32° Scottish Rite Beautiful Foster Country Club

Freemasonry is for those who wish to better ────

themselves and the world through deeper Scramble Format June 6, 2020 and engagement with the philosophy, values, and Shotgun Start teachings that have supported Freemasonry for Ionic Lodge ──── more than 200 years. Golf Tournament Prizes for 1st, 2nd rd and 3 ! Foster Country Club ──── If you are interested to host this special 18 Holes w/Cart Steak & Beer Following the presentation and explore how Scottish Rite can Tee off at 12:30 PM Event! benefit your Masonic journey, then give us a call. $100 Donation

Scramble format, Raffles Contact: IllPeter Iacobucci 33° shotgun start, prizes for 1st 2nd & 3rd Cell: 401-413-4821 Foster Country Club finishes! Closest to 67 Johnson Rd. Email: [email protected] the Foster, RI 02825

pin and longest drive or the Scottish Rite Office Reservations: for men and women. 401-461-2480 Steaks and Beer back Charlie Wilkinson [email protected] 401-397-6071 at Ionic Lodge and [email protected] to reserve a date. Raffle Prizes!

Page 24 March/April/May 2020 ______

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

Call of the Most Worshipful

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

th 229 ANNUAL COMMUNICATION

Brethren:

The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations will be held in Freemasons’ Hall, 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, Rhode Island

Monday, May 18, 2020

For the transaction of such business as shall regularly come before it and the installation of Grand Lodge officers for the ensuing Masonic year. Grand Lodge will open promptly at 9:00 o’clock A.M. Masters and Wardens, or their proxies, are required to attend in business suits and to wear their official jewels.

Attest: Signed: Ronald P. Reed Kenneth F. Poyton Ronald P. Reed Kenneth F. Poyton Grand Secretary Grand Master

Masters and Wardens of Subordinate Lodges only are entitled to send proxies who must be members of the same Lodge.