Missouri Freemason Magazine - 2012 Spring

Volume 57 No. 2 SPRING 2012

Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri A.F. & A.M.

30 Spring 2012 the MISSOuRI FReeMASON

Committee on Masonic PublicationsJohn W. Hess, Grand MasterDavid L. Ramsey, Senior Grand WardenRonald D. Miller, Grand SecretaryZelwin B. Eaton, Past EditorE. Otha Wingo, Assistant EditorSteven L. Harrison, Editor, Chairman

EditorSteven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120 • Kearney, MO 64060-1120816-558-0436 / Call for [email protected]

The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is the official publication of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and is published four times yearly. Articles to be considered for publication should be e-mailed to [email protected], not later than the first day of

the month preceding publication in February, May, August, and November.

Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Grand Lodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject, subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication. Pictures submitted for publication will not be returned. The Missouri Freemason does not accept forms or clippings for publication. Please do not submit materials in PDF format.

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PoSTMaSTer: Please send address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite b, columbia, Mo 65202-6535.

SubScriPTionS: The Missouri Freemason is mailed to every member of this Masonic Jurisdiction

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PerMiSSion To rePrinT: All recognized Masonic publications have permission to reprint original articles from The Missouri Freemason with credit to the author and the publication.

chanGe oF aDDreSS (important): Whenever a member changes his mailing address without notifying his Lodge Secretary and a mailing of the Freemason magazine occurs, the Post Office charges the Grand Lodge 75¢ per undeliverable Freemason.

PleaSe, contact your Lodge Secretary with your address change so that the Grand Lodge can then be notified. GranD loDGe oF MiSSouri

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Another year has begun and I am pleased to advise that the Grand Lodge of Missouri is moving forward with in-creased activity and dedication from its members and leadership

The fall was spent traveling around our State to listen to the membership and re-ceive comments on how to improve our Fraternity. The Town Hall meetings were a great success and there is a considerable amount of information to give to the Long Range Planning Committee. If you missed the Town Hall meeting this fall, you may add your comments to the mix by accessing the Grand Lodge Website and completing the survey that you will find there.

The program with Harris Connect was a great suc-cess with almost half of our membership responding and over 6,000 of our members ordering the directory. You should see these wonderful books in your mail by mid-April, Thanks to all who participated.

The theme of the Grand Lodge officers this year is “The Crown Jewels of Freemasonry” We have been pleased with the opportunity to provide to our mem-bership and the community at large wonderful tools that set us apart from other groups. Let the Lodge of Research increase your understanding of your life as a Mason, let the Children’s Foundation help you to make Missouri children safer, let our Scholarship pro-

gram help Missouri students increase their opportunities to further their education and let the Masonic Home, through our Outreach program, assist those who need it’s assistance. Be proud of what we do on a daily basis as Masons and tell the story of Missouri Freemasonry to your friends and neighbors.

In early December, the Grand Lodge of-ficers had the opportunity to travel to Jo-liet, Illinois, to help make Clifton Truman Daniel a Freemason. Brother Daniel is the

grandson of Most Worshipful Brother and President Harry S Truman. It was a high honor to be present at this historical occasion and to Obligate Brother Daniel with Missouri work on the First Degree.

As we travel the State this winter and spring, we are looking forward to seeing old friends and mak-ing many more new friends. Brother Samuel Clemons said, “Freemasonry is the grip and the word that lifts a man up and makes him glad to be alive.” Let the gift of Freemasonry lift up your lives and make you glad to be a Missouri Mason.

Fraternally,

John W. HessGrand Master

the missouri freemason spring 2012 31

the missouri freemasonvol. 57 no. 2 official Publication of the Grand lodge of missouri sPrinG 2012

Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications

©

contents

For some time now I've been contributing to the Missouri Lodge of Research's FaceBook and Twitter projects. Every day I discover more amazing facts about our Craft and the Brothers who have made it what it is. The more Masonic research I do, the more I realize what a stunning and positive impact Freemasonry has had on our country and the world. The project has left me saturated with quotes from Freemasons. I thought I'd share a few:

"I don't suppose any organization has done so much for so many with so little selfishness as the Masonic Fraternity." ~Gov. Thomas E. Dewey

"A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education." ~Theodore Roosevelt

"My Lodge had at least 4 creeds. I was entered by a Hindu, passed by a Mohammedan and raised by an Englishman." ~Rudyard Kipling

"Don't let yesterday use up too much of today." ~Will Rogers

"The more I come in contact with the Masonic fraternity, the more impressed I am with our great charitable work." ~Franklin Roosevelt

"I always advise people never to give advice." ~P.G. Wodehouse

"If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter." ~George Washington

"Anti-Semitism is a noxious weed that should be cut out. It has no place in America." ~William Howard Taft

"Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared." ~Eddie Rickenbacker

"A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle." ~Benjamin Franklin

"The liberties of none are safe unless the liberties of all are protected." ~William O. Douglas

"Our world has nuclear giants & ethical infants. We know more about war than peace, more about killing than living." ~Omar Bradley

"The measure of life is not its duration, but its donation." ~Peter Marshall

"The man who doesn't read good books has no advantage over the man who can't read them." ~Mark Twain

"I am a Mason because care for those who cannot care for themselves." ~Danny Thomas, philanthropist, entertainer.

"Fear … is something you learn how to deal with and set aside. You want to be alert as you possibly can." ~Buzz Aldrin

"There's no education in the second kick of a mule." ~Brother Fritz Hollings

"Be sincere; be brief; be seated." ~Franklin D. Roosevelt

"Life is tough. It's tougher when you're stupid." ~John Wayne

"It is the beginning." ~Last words of Frank S. Land

from the editor’s Keyboard

Steve Harrison, Editor

32 The Wooden Bowl

32 Let Your Ideas Be Heard!

33 On The Cover

34 Clifton Truman Daniel Raised A Master Mason

34 The Truman Line Unique in all of Masonry

35 A Mason At Sight — More than a snap of the fingers

36 Masonic Minutes to be Introduced for Your Lodge

36 A Crazy Little Story

37 St. Louis Shriners Hospital Responds to Recent News Reports

37 A Tale Of Three Brothers

38 Spice In The Lodge

38 What Were The Twelve Original Points Of Masonry?

39 Freemasonry: A Family Tradition

39 Who is your DDGM?

40 Grandson of Lodge Namesake Initiated

41 Lexington Lodge Relives Area's Civil War Battle 150 Years Later

41 Fidelity Lodge #339 Hosts Its First C2A Class

41 Missouri Freemason Deadlines

42 MoCHIP is Ready to Help

43 The Moonlight Lodge of Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1

45 Rainbow Girls

46 Job's Daughters

47 Missouri DeMolay

47 Lodge of Research Announcement

48 Masonic Home of Missouri Message from Executive Director

48 A Creating-A-Partnership Project

49 Masonic Family Cares

49 Masonic Home of Missouri 10th Annual Golf Outing

49 Masonic Widow's Luncheons

49 Good Samaritan Christmas Project

50 The Work of our Craft

53 Masonic Service Awards

32 spring 2012 the missouri freemason

I attended a Lodge meeting in my district not long ago and watched with curiosity as to how the members treated an old Past Master as he joined the fellowship meal before the meeting. They were not intentionally rude or derogatory toward the aging Past Master but still the incident pondered the question as to how we treat the old timers who attend our meetings. What begged the question was that he sat alone not only at the meal but in the Lodge meeting also.

Very few came to inquire as to how he was doing or say a word to him. No one sat with him; I am guilty as well be-cause I did not sit with him either in the meeting. Yes, I feel guilty of the same style of attitude and behavior. On the way home I got to thinking about the meeting when my guilt took over and I had to have a conversation with Grand Architect of the Universe for my actions. It was during this conversa-tion with God that and old story about a wooden bowl came to me as an illustration of life.

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered.

The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grand-father's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the

glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.

'We must do something about father,' said the son. 'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.' So the husband and wife set a small table in the cor-ner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.

Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grand-father's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.

He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?'Just as sweetly, the boy responded, 'Oh, I am making a

little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.' The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

let your ideas be heard!

The Grand Master has started a planning initiative that will take input from the membership regard-ing the goals, objectives, and operation of the fraternity at the local, district, and state level. Your com-ments will directly affect this planning process. These comments will drive future surveys and the long range planning process.

What can be improved? What new things do we need to do? How can we help the Lodges be more successful?

The first step was to have listening sessions at the Area Meetings this year. They were well attended and good input was received. But only a fraction of our membership attends these meetings. We need the rest of the craft’s input too!

We have added an ONLINE survey to the Grand Lodge website! You can now go online and give your input to this process at this address: momason.org/thm

The survey asks some basic demographic questions then has spaces for your comments under five categories and a general category. Answers to the questions are not required, but will help us determine the coverage of our membership that is participating. You can add any number of individual comments, suggestions, ideas to your response. The time to participate in the survey will vary with the number of responses you wish to include, but normally should take no longer than 10-15 minutes.

Responses to the survey must be entered by March 31, 2012.There is also a printable PDF form that can be used to give to brothers that don’t have computer

access, so they may participate as well at http://momason.org/PDF/THMSurvey1.pdf.

the Wooden BowlBy rWB Douglas reece

Continued on next page …


on the Cover: Most Worshipful Brother John W. Hess, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, obligates Clifton Truman Daniel, MWB Harry Truman's grandson, as an Entered Apprentice. This and other pictures in this magazine taken inside a tiled Lodge were done so with the permission and review of MWB Terry L. Seward, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois and MWB Hess. Photo by RWB R.T. "Jack" Gladdin, Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge of Illinois.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some rea-son, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

It was then revealed what an allusion to our motto, “Mak-ing Good Men Better,” could represent. In support of this I am reminded of the incident in the Old Testament of Scrip-ture where Israel asked God what they should do to walk with Him. God’s answer is found in Micah 6:8, “He has shown you, O man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

God had told them this once before in Deuteronomy 10:12, when God, through the author of Deuteronomy, prophesied “And now, O Israel, what does the Lord you God as of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and de-crees that I am giving you today for your own good.”

I find it interesting to see how the Tenants and four Cardi-nal Virtues of our institution are incorporated and revealed in these two verses of the Great Light of Masonry, especially Brotherly Love.

Did the old Past Master feel like the grandfather in the story? Did he have a tear in his eye while he was eating and attending the meeting? Was his heart broken by the lack of Brotherly Love shown to him during his visit? More impor-tantly, will he return and impart to the younger members some of the Masonic wisdom his age group possesses?

Masonic wisdom does not always come from the ritual of our great fraternity. It comes from the application of the knowledge acquired through it and applied to our own lives. The older generation of Masons possesses such a vast knowledge of wisdom that we often times overlook them for guidance and instruction. Not only does their knowledge ex-plain some of the history of our local Lodges, but it is also the application of their personal experiences that have great-est value.

Our younger Masons have yet to learn the old adage, “The older I get the smarter my parents get.” This can be applied to Masonry as well by changing the word parents to Old Timers. We have a tendency, by nature of our creation, to associate with those most like us and our age. Yet, why do

some cultures live with and support their parents and grand-parents in the same household for generations? They were taught at a very early age what these verses of the Holy Writ-ings meant whether they were of our faith or not.

They learned that wisdom for life can come from the par-ents and grandparents. They learned respect for that wisdom and respect for them as individuals as well. This is some-thing we take for granted and put on the back shelf a lot. I know I am really guilty of this. But, knowledge coupled with application equals wisdom. So, if we bring them back with us at meal time and let them eat off of the same plates we use, will we be better men for the experience?

I don’t know. But, I do know this: all of my experiences have shown that a warm heart towards our older Brethren, our elderly parents, others of that age will bring untold amounts of joy which has no comparison.

We have been taught the duties of walking with our God and the definitions of Brotherly Love but how many times have you heard about the rewards? Very few I would assume. Remember the pomegranate in the second degree lecture? It represents plenty. The amount of Brotherly Love and relief given will have an impact on the number of seeds of joy in your pomegranate.

What have we learned through our examples? Our con-clusion comes from the wise words of Dr. Maya Angelou:

“I know that I've learned life sometimes gives you a sec-ond chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes. I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you.”

But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, hap-piness will find you. I've learned that whenever you decide something with an open heart, you will usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day, you and I should reach out and touch someone.

People love that human touch — holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.”

RWB Doug Reece is Past Master of Temperance Lodge #438. He has a long list of Masonic accomplishments and affiliations with appendant bodies and is the District Deputy Grand Lecturer of the 7th Masonic District.

Continued from previous page …


He is an accomplished man in his own right. Brother Clif-ton Truman Daniel is Director of Public Relations for Harry S. Truman College, one of the seven City Colleges of Chi-cago. Prior to that, he worked as a feature writer and editor for the Morning Star and Sunday Star-News in Wilmington, North Carolina. An author of two books, Brother Daniel is a frequent speaker/lecturer and fundraiser. He is also a mem-ber of the Board of Trustees of the Harry S. Truman Library Institute in Independence, Missouri where he serves as its Honorary Chairman.

In addition to his own personal achievements Brother Daniel has a rich family heritage. He is the son of E. Clifton Daniel Jr., former managing editor of the New York Times, and best-selling mystery writer Margaret Truman.

And yes, he is the eldest grandson of former United States President and former Missouri Grand Master Harry S. Tru-man.

Most Worshipful Brother Truman, the man who had held the most powerful office in the world, said more than once that his greatest accomplishment was having been Grand Master of Masons in Missouri. He was as sincere and dedi-cated a Freemason as anyone could ever find, and on De-cember 3, his grandson carried on that legacy as he became a Master Mason.

Over 100 Brothers filled Matteson Lodge #175 in Jo-liet, Illinois to capacity and looked on as Most Worshipful Brother Terry L. Seward, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, made Brother Daniel a Mason at Sight in a sol-emn and impressive ceremony. MWB Seward explained, "In designing today's program, I wanted to make sure our new Brother came as close as possible to the full experience of becoming a Freemason." In light of that, the program con-sisted of Brother Daniel receiving the obligation in the First

Clifton truman Daniel raised a master masonMWB Harry Truman's Masonic legacy lives on with his grandson

The Missouri Delegation -- Front row (left to right): C. Brent Stew-art, Senior Grand Deacon; David W. Haywood, Junior Grand Warden; Clifton Truman Daniel; Ronald D. Jones, Senior Grand Steward; Aaron M. Shoemaker, Grand Orator; Steven L. Harrison, Editor Missouri Freemason; Second row: Stanton T. Brown II, Se-nior Grand Marshall; John W. Hess, Grand Master; Gail S. Turner, Past Grand Master; William G. Snyder, Grand Chaplin; Craig Skinner, Grand Chaplain; A. Freeman Stanfill, Grand Orator; Thomas L. Truman, Grand Pursuivant; Clay Thompson, Worship-ful Master, Buckner Lodge #501.

the truman line unique in all of masonry

Harry S. Truman was a man of many accomplishments. He is, of course best known throughout the world as the thirty-third President of the United States, Vice President, US Senator and World War I Captain, to name a few. Interestingly, however when asked which honor he valued the most, Truman always responded, "The greatest honor that has ever come to me, and that can ever come to me in my life, was to become Grand Master of Masons in Missouri." This is quite a testimonial to the office of Grand Master from a man who once was the most powerful person in the world.

Truman became Grand Master in 1940, while still serving as a United States Senator. Among his many duties during his year as Grand Master, MWB Truman appointed James M. Bradford to the advancing line. With that appointment, the Truman Line was born. The Truman Line consists of those brothers appointed to the Grand Line by Harry Truman or his appointees.

Eight years later, Bradford became Grand Master and appointed Harold O. Grauel to the advancing line. The tradition of Truman Line appointments has continued until today.

In the normal course of events, a Truman Line appointee becomes Grand Master (approximately) every eight years. At any given time, there is only one Truman Line member in the advancing line, and there is only one member of the Truman line at a time who has not been Grand Master. The next Truman Line appointee year will be 2014.

The Truman Line is truly unique in all of Masonry. It is a very select club, with only nine members (including Truman) prior to the latest appointment:

• Harry S. Truman 1940-1941

• James M Bradford 1949-1950

• Harold O. Grauel 1959-1960

• Elvis A. Mooney 1968-1969

• Fielding A. Poe 1976-1977

• Vern H. Schneider 1984-1985

• D. Robert Downey 1991-1992

• Wilfred G. Soutiea, Jr. 1999-2000

• Bruce Austin 2007-2008

With MWB Austin's Truman Line appointment at Grand Lodge 2007, the Truman Line will continue as RWB David W. Haywood, the newest member of this elite club, continues to move through the advancing line.



a mason at sight — More than a snap of the fingersOn December 3, 2011, Most Worshipful Brother Terry

L. Seward, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, exercised an authority unique to Grand Masters and made Brother Clifton Truman Daniel a Mason at sight. It has happened many times before to dozens of men who have become "true and faithful" Brothers among us. Milton Eisenhower, Charles W. Fairbanks, Andrew Mellon, Booker T. Washington, William Howard Taft … all were made Masons at sight. During the past year basketball standout Shaquille O'Neal and Oscar-winning actor Richard Dreyfuss became Masons at sight. It might be said a full list of Masons at sight reads like a Who's-Who of Masonry. Yet many Masons have reservations about the practice, feeling it dilutes the experience of becoming a Freemason and somehow indicates the Mason at sight Brother lacks enthusiasm for or knowledge about the fraternity.

The conventions for making a Mason at sight, as most everything else in the Craft, vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions, including Missouri, the making of a Mason at sight is prohibited. In general, however, the procedure employs some form of ritual and obligation and has guidelines for how many Brothers must be present. According to Mackey, "The mode of exercising the prerogative is this: The Grand Master summons to his assistance not less than six other Freemasons, convenes a Lodge, and without any previous probation, but on sight of the candidate confers the Degrees upon him, after which he

dissolves the Lodge and dismisses the Brethren."Of course, not everyone does things according to

Mackey. Still, some Brothers hold the general conception that the process of making a Mason at sight is almost

literal: The Grand Master snaps his fingers and, voilà! A new Mason. It doesn't work that way. "In this case," said MWB Seward, "it means there was no petition, no investigation and the ceremony was slightly shorter. I made every effort to ensure Brother Daniel was comfortable doing things this way because I didn't want him to miss anything and didn't want him to feel he wasn't getting the full experience."

And so it was. Brother Clifton was obligated in the Entered Apprentice and Fellowcraft degrees and received an impressive and full Master Mason degree.

Whatever he missed he can now easily pick up by viewing the first two degrees. The entire ceremony was solemn, well-orchestrated and beautifully conducted, far more than a snap of the fingers.

The group of Brothers who witnessed Brother Daniel's raising were virtually unanimous in complimenting the ceremony after it was over. They overwhelmingly congratulated the Grand Lodges of Illinois and Missouri for the work. And Brother Clifton expressed the same sentiments.

To look at it from another point of view, every one of those fortunate to be in attendance in that packed Lodge room can now say something very few can claim, "I saw the making of a Mason at sight."

and Second Degrees, with a full Master Mason Degree and lecture following.

Given the close ties the Grand Lodge of Missouri has with MWB Truman, MWB Seward invited a delegation of Missouri Masons to at-tend and participate. Most Worshipful Brother John W. Hess, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, began the afternoon's proceedings by obligat-ing Mr. Daniel in the First Degree. It is usually a Grand Master who hands out the honors but, in this case, it was MWB Hess who had the honor of being the first to address MWB Truman's grand-son as "Brother Daniel." The ceremony then continued in Illinois form with the Second Degree obligation followed by both sections of the Third Degree.

After the degrees and prior to a celebratory feast, both Grand Lodges made introductions and welcomed Brother

Daniel to the Fraternity. MWB Hess made Brother Daniel a member of the Truman Club, which benefits the Masonic Home of Missouri, and presented him with the bust of his grandfather, which the Truman Club awards to all Truman

Level members. MWB Hess also in-troduced Brother Daniel to Right Wor-shipful Brother David W. Haywood, Ju-nior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, who is the current Grand Line member of the Truman Line. The Truman Line consists of the Grand Line officers who can trace their ap-

pointments directly back to Harry Tru-man himself.

At the end of the day, Brother Daniel expressed his gratitude to the gathering of Masons who had come to witness this

once-in-a-lifetime event. He reminisced about his famous grandfather and his dedication to the Craft and expressed the sentiments of those in attendance: that the spirit of Brother Truman's presence filled the room.

Missouri Grand Master John W. Hess intro-duces Brother Daniel to David W. Haywood, Missouri's current Truman Line member. To-gether, MWB Hess and RWB Haywood pre-sented Brother Daniel with a Truman Club membership and a hardbound copy of the Grand Lodge proceedings of 1941, the year MWB Truman presided.

Clifton Truman Daniel listens as Illinois Grand Master Terry L. Seward completes a ceremony nearly identical to the one Brother Daniel's grandfather experienced over a century ago.



masonic minutes to be introduced for Your lodgeBy the masonic education Committee

Lodge opens. Minutes are approved. Bills are discussed. Lodge closes. Repeat this twice per month with the expecta-tion of dwindling attendance and apathy.

The preceding recipe is the standard operation of many Lodges and it doesn’t allow for continual interest in attend-ing Lodge or growth to our members. The Masonic Edu-cation Committee of the Grand Lodge of Missouri is em-barking on a program to provide an additional ingredient to assist each Lodge in providing information and training to its membership for every meeting, and give our Brethren the opportunity to find a reason to attend Lodge and grow in Masonry.

We call this new ingredient Masonic Minutes, which is being introduced in the spring of 2012 as a framework for each Lodge in the state to concurrently present the same topic at its meeting. The goal of the Masonic Minutes is to provide an off-the-shelf educational program for the Lodge to present at every meeting for the benefit of the members of the Lodge. We are hoping that every meeting will contain an element of new education or growth for our members, and bring about greater interest, attendance, and activity.

The Masonic Minutes will be available on the Grand Lodge website and are envisioned to be used as follows:

1. Each Masonic Minute program will be posted on the website and assigned a suggested date for presentation.

2. The Worshipful Master of each Lodge will assign a Brother to be in charge of presenting the Masonic Minutes for the next meeting.

3. The assigned Brother can then download the minutes and review the program, and he then has the option of pre-senting the information as written or expanding the informa-tion with additional research for the upcoming meeting.

4. The Masonic Minutes will be presented to the Lodge

for the meeting date suggested.The truly unique part of the Masonic Minutes is that the

program for a given meeting will be the same for every Lodge, which means that every Lodge has the same foun-dational education and subsequent discussion from which to work. This allows a consistent message to be brought forth throughout every Lodge and provide programs with timely topics as needed throughout the entire state. Additional-ly, this is not presented in a hope of dictating the way that Freemasonry should be interpreted, but more in the manner of promoting thoughtful discussion in each Lodge of what Freemasonry means and how best to set it into action both individually and as a fraternity.

As a statewide activity, we encourage all our Brethren to submit a topic or program for which they have an interest or knowledge. Nothing is too big or small to be considered. While there are usually twenty meetings in a Masonic year, the range of topics for our Fraternity is virtually endless, so we have the ability to have several years of topics from which to present new programs. Programs can include prac-tical topics as to how to run a Lodge, create a budget, or cre-ate a calendar of events; historical topics as to Lodge history or Masonic figures; and esoteric topics as to ritual, allegory, and furniture of the Lodge. All of the programs will provide an outline, that while complete and presentable in itself, al-lows for each topic to be expanded by the presenter depend-ing on his interest, or the interest of the Lodge.

The Lodges that are currently using education in their meetings are seeing a strong increase in not only attendance and membership retention, but also in the amount of activity by the members in all aspects of the Lodge; and it is through Masonic Minutes that we desire to provide the Lodges an added ingredient to their recipe for success.

a Crazy little storyGrand Lodge received a phone call from the new owner

of an old home. Apparently, he kept receiving Masonic mail for the man who used to live in the home … twenty years ago! Yes, you read that right. The man had died twenty years prior and yet received all Lodge and Grand Lodge communications, including his 50-year pin!

This is an extreme example of what continues to be a problem. Lodges must connect with their inactive members. Had someone taken the time to place a phone call twenty years ago, perhaps this brother could have had the Masonic funeral he deserved, which in turn would have provided an additional sense of pride for the loved ones he left behind. If nothing more, we are a fraternal organization committed to charity, true fellowship and brotherly love under the Fatherhood of God. We should be taking more time to check on, even monitor our missing Brethren. It’s our responsibility

as Masonic brothers.The amount of time, mailing expense and resources are

being squandered needlessly. The money saved can better serve your Lodge and Grand Lodge.

Each of us needs to accept and practice our social responsibility as caring members.

The amount of time, mailing expense and resources

are being squandered needlessly. The money

saved can better serve your Lodge and Grand Lodge.


st. louis shriners hospital responds to recent news reports

By ray rohr – Past Potentate and Past Chairman of shC-stl Board of GovernorsEarly in December there were news reports that gave the

public the misleading impression that Shriners Hospital for Children in St. Louis might be closing. Headlines such as "Shriners Check Out of St. Louis Hospital", and, "Shriners Scrap Plans for New St. Louis Hospital," have resulted in many questions and rumors. The purpose of this message is to set the record straight and to provide insight and answers should you be questioned regarding our hospital plans.

In 2008 at the Imperial Shrine session in St. Louis, a cer-emonial groundbreaking was held for a new St. Louis Shri-ners Hospital on land we had purchased on the campus of the Washington University Medical School. At that time we announced plans to build a $150 million, six-story, 250,000 square foot, forty-bed replacement hospital. We envisioned a hospital of such size in anticipation of the closing of several other Shriners Hospitals within our system. Since that day in July of 2008, our nation experienced the onset of a recession in which our economy still languishes, and many changes have occurred within our Shrine hospital system and the medical world in general that have caused both our local and national leadership to reassess the model of care that will carry us into the future.

This past November the joint boards governing Shriners International and Shriners Hospitals for Children gave of-ficials at the St. Louis hospital approval to engage a local architect in the programming and design of a new ambula-tory surgery center (ASC) facility. This ASC facility would

be built on our ground at the Washington University Medical School campus and would replace the current inpatient hos-pital at 2001 S. Lindberg.

The new ASC facility will include all the outpatient of-ferings available in our current hospital, including the meta-bolic bone disease research center, physician clinic, radiol-ogy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthotics and prosthetics, two operating rooms and accommodations for patient families.

Our patients will continue to receive inpatient services when needed through our collaboration with St. Louis Chil-dren’s Hospital and Washington University School of Medi-cine. These services will be provided by Shriners Hospital’s doctors and be paid for by Shriners Hospitals for Children. It will remain a service of Shriners Hospitals for Children, but it will simply take place in another facility. Through the use of the ASC facility model of care, Shriners will save over $100 Million in construction costs and effect major savings in ongoing annual operating expenses.

Shriners can be proud that their St. Louis hospital is at the forefront of the Shriners Hospitals for Children system in finding a new model of care – to continue to provide all the services our patients need in a more efficient way, thereby ensuring the health of the endowment and perpetuity of this system for children who need us in the future.

Rest assured, there are no plans to "close" our hospital or "scrap plans" for a new facility.

a tale of three BrothersBy Gary shriner, secretary, iberia lodge #410

It has long been a practice at many of our Lodges, throughout history, to take note of instances where we find a father, his sons, and grandsons all become members of the same Lodge. On certain rare occasions, we find two family members, who petitioned the same Lodge at the same time. This is a story of the exceptional brothers, Wade, Wayne, and Jasper Hensley.

Wayne was born, on August 5, 1917, Wade on December 21, 1919, and Jasper on April 5, 1925.

The three brothers worked on the family turkey farm near Ulman, Missouri, very near the small town of Brumley, where the fledgling Brumley Lodge #203 was located. In the spring of 1947, for whatever reason that will never be known to those of us reading this, all three of the Hensley brothers petitioned Brumley Lodge for membership. Could any one have imagined or pictured the faces of the members of Brumley Lodge when all three of the candidates' petitions were read that spring evening so many years ago?

The three were obviously upstanding members of the community as on June 11, 1947, Jasper and Wade were initi-ated into the hidden mysteries of Freemasonry, and two days later Wayne was initiated. Wade was passed to Fellowcraft on July 7, Jasper on July 9, and Wayne on July 11. On Au-gust 27, 1947, it was Wade and Wayne who were raised to-gether, followed by Jasper on September 3.

The brothers did not stop there; they all worked hard and became Worshipful Masters of the Lodge, with Wayne in 1951, Wade in 1954, and Jasper in 1967.

Wade received his 50-year pin July 29, 1997, and depart-ed this life Jan 1, 1999. Jasper received his 50-year pin Au-gust 19, 1997 and departed this life on July 22, 2007. Wayne departed this life April 4, 1993, just four years short of his 50-year pin.

It was said that the father of these fine men was also a Master Mason, but the records have yet to be found.


spice in the lodgeBy frank herbert

What happens when you add spice (properly) to food? It makes the food more pleasant to eat. It becomes more enjoy-able, lingers on your tongue, and makes you desire to eat it again. What if we could “add spice” to our Lodge meetings? They would become more enjoyable, and people would wish to come more often and maybe even participate more!

Let’s look at the new initiate. He is somewhat over-whelmed after his Entered Apprentice initiation. Most of us think “Wow, this is a very special organization. I’m glad I joined!” As he attends more meetings, he may start to think, the officers sure stumble over their words a lot, and the words are so 19th century, or even before. My own experience was, “this is the oldest fraternity on the planet and the ancient words may be part of the reason it has lasted so long, so I’m going to embrace it as it is.”

As time passes and I look around, a lot of the familiar faces are no longer there. Some have gone on to Shrine, and others have just faded away. I have thought and thought about this and have concluded that in today’s world where so many demands are made on every waking moment of our lives: work, family, school, family activities, kids sports, even keeping up with what is going on in the world as this has a bigger impact on our lives than ever before. All that, leaves us with only a few precious moments of leisure time. We must treasure each of these moments and spend them

wisely. Reality is that many have looked upon their Masonic Lodge experiences and have decided what they’re getting out of them is not worth the leisure moments they have.

What we have to do is ADD SPICE to our Lodge meet-ings! One way, hit me from those memorable words “the greatest and best of men in all ages”… have been Masons. Why not have 5 minutes of each Lodge meeting devoted to a Greatest and Best presentation. Someone, perhaps the Edu-cation Officer, could stand up and give a short bio on a great Mason from the past, such as George Washington, a colo-nial hero or even Buzz Aldrin the astronaut. The second part would be to name a brother in the Lodge and give a short bio on him. The Mason from the past would tie us to the heritage of the institution, and re-instill pride in our organization. The additional bio on a Lodge brother would personalize our Lodge experience, instill Lodge pride as well as enable us to get to know each other and strengthen our brotherly ties. This short but enjoyable effort would also make our Lodge meetings more pleasant.

Frank Herbert is a member of Central Crossing Lodge #674 in Shell Knob, Missouri, where he participates in the Commandery and is a 32° Mason. Brother Herbert is a for-mer tax attorney and a retired Navy Captain with 8 com-mands, including 2 ships and a destroyer squadron. He was twice a corporate Vice President.

What Were the twelve original Points of masonry?By Dennis W. spears – alpha lodge #659 and moberly lodge #344

This article concerns one of the changes to Masonry’s Ritual that has occurred over the centuries, specifically the Twelve Original Points of Masonry. These changes have in many cases created a loss to the Fraternity by diluting its Ritual and providing less and less explanation of the reasons for its creation and its meaning. By studying some of these “lost” explanations and Rituals we hope we can arrive at a better understanding of Freemasonry, its history, develop-ment and philosophy.

The Twelve Original Points of Masonry were never used in the United States and at the Union of the Grand Lodge of England in 1813, they were removed from its ritual and re-placed with three “new” points. The three “new” points were never used in this country either, but the four perfect points in use serve as a substitute for either.

In spite of having never been used in the United States, the ancient lectures stated that without the existence of these points no man ever was, or can be, legally and essentially re-ceived into the Order. Every person made a Mason must go through all twelve forms and ceremonies, not only in the first degree, but in every subsequent degree. The twelve points referred various parts of the ceremony of initiation to the twelve tribes of Israel. The ceremony survives but the ref-

erence to the points has passed in to history. The question remains what were the Twelve Original Points of Masonry?

1. The opening of the lodge was symbolized by Rubin who was the first born of Jacob and the beginning of his strength. Without opening there could be no Lodge. The door by which the candidate enters into the world of Mason-ry is essentially the beginning of every initiation and degree.

2. Simeon symbolized the preparation of the candidate because Simeon prepared the instruments for the slaughter of the Shemites. It symbolized Masonic abhorrence to the cruelty manifested in that event. Due to Masonry’s abhor-rence of cruelty, a candidate before entry into the Lodge is divested of all metallic objects.

3. The senior Deacon’s report is symbolized by the tribe of Levi. Legend is that Levi signaled his brother Simeon in the execution of the slaughter. Masonry denounces cruelty to a helpless people.

4. The entry of the candidate into the lodge was sym-bolized by tribe of Judah. They were the first to cross the river Jordan to enter the land of “Milk and Honey.” This al-ludes to the passing of the candidate from the wilderness of darkness into the land of light and liberty.



5. the prayer is symbolized by tribe of Zebulun because the prayers and blessings of Jacob were given to him in def-erence to his brother Issachar.

6. The circumambulation of the lodge by the candidate is symbolized by the tribe of Issachar. Being somewhat shift-less in character this tribe needed a special leader to advance them to an equal elevation with the other tribes.

7. advancing the candidate to the altar refers to the tribe of Dan. It shows that we should advance to truth and holiness rapidly. This is in contrast to the rapid decline of Dan into idolatry when the serpent was first adored.

8. The tribe of Gad symbolizes the obligation and alludes to the solemn vow made by Jephthah, Judge of Israel, and member of this tribe.

9. Symbolized by the tribe of Asher is the entrusting of the mysteries of freemasonry to the candidate, for this tribe was presented with the full fruits of Masonic knowl-edge.

10. The presentation of the white lambskin refers to

the tribe of Naphtali and declares the candidate free, for this tribe was invested with a peculiar freedom by Moses in the prophecy, “O Naphtali, satisfied with favor and full with blessing of the Lord, possessed thou the West and South."

11. The ceremony in the northeast corner is symbolized by tribe of Joseph and his two sons Ephraim and Manasseh, who headed up two half tribes. They were considered the most superficial of the tribes. This ceremony remains us of the most superficial part of Masonry.

12. The closing of a lodge is symbolized by the tribe of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob, thus was Jacob’s strength closed.

Though these Points have passed into antiquity and are no longer used, the ceremony remains. They make an interest-ing study in Masonry’s symbolism. Any Mason can readily recognize the symbolism and the actual progression of the candidate through the Degrees and its relation to the twelve tribes. The real question is – has the Fraternity lost or gained in their discontinuance and the revising of the Ritual over the years, a good topic for a future paper.


On December 13, 2011, Brother Michael Paul Singer, III, received his Third Degree in Algabil-Freedom Lodge, #636. I am Michael's father and also the Worshipful Master of the Lodge. Michael is a Past Master Counselor of Progression Chapter, Order of DeMolay, and had exemplified his knowl-edge of the Candidate’s Lecture in the First and Second De-grees before progressing. He has since done the same in the Third Degree, after which I had the pleasure of installing him as Junior Steward of our Lodge.

I had the great honor of obligating Michael in all three Degrees and in Raising him to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. My father assisted in all three degrees as the Senior Deacon. In Michael’s Third Degree, Grand Lecturer Rob-ert Floyd gave Michael a superb curtain lecture, after which Mike Apple, Regional Grand Lecturer, presented Michael with the Bible upon which he had been obligated in a beauti-ful ceremony.

Among other gifts he received that night, his Grandfather and I presented him with a check for his dues and an endowed

membership. It was a combined gift from his Grandparents, Mike and Phillis, and his Mother Jennifer and I. I then pre-sented him with a very special Masonic Ring. This ring was first obtained by my Great Grandfather, Virgil Calvin Singer, of Acacia Lodge #586 in Pennsylvania. He then passed it on to my Grandfather Calvin Brandt Singer who was a Past Master of that same Lodge. He in turn passed it to my father, who presented it to me at the very same altar 25-years earlier. Michael is the 5th generation in our family to wear the ring, and I know he will add to the honor of the heritage of that ring, and I hope he will see it passed on to the next gen-eration continuing in this family tra-dition.

freemasonry: a family traditionBy michael Paul singer, Jr.

Shown left to Right are RWB Michael Paul Singer, Sr., Paul Singer, III and WB Michael Paul Singer, Jr.


ject and the report was published by Moore and Carnegy in the official monitor prepared by authority of the Baltimore Convention, entitled The Masonic Trestle-Board. This book was reprinted in 1978 by The Masonic Book Club. The original edition bore the names of both Moore and Carnegy as authors; later revisions show only Moore as author.

The Grand Lodge of Missouri was a major participant in this Convention in the person of its Past Grand Master (1836-1838), Stephen W. B. Carnegy (1797–1892), and Charles W. Moore, who was made an Honorary Member of the Grand Lodge of Missouri (Res. 1847-16), one of only eight men who were honored by this title. The Grand Lodge had depended on a Grand Lecturer to teach the work, but visiting free-lance lecturers traveled throughout the state, teaching ritual for a fee to individual Lodges. No standard “working” existed, though it is clear that Thomas Smith Webb’s The Freemason’s Monitor or Illustrations of Masonry (1797) was mostly used. The delegates exemplified the entire report for the Grand Lodge for two full days on October 13-14, 1843. (A survey of the Grand Lodge Proceedings indicated that exemplifying the three degrees at annual meetings became a regular practice for many years.) “The report was adopted without a dissenting vote and the work of the Baltimore Convention became official in Missouri, as the subordinate Lodges were directed to observe it.” [See Henry C. Chiles, From Mouth to Ear, published in 1936 by the Grand Lodge of Missouri, for more details.] Oddly, after the report was published by Moore and Carnegy as The Masonic Trestle-Board, objections were raised and the book itself was not adopted as the official monitor, but recommended as “a suitable text book.”

Missouri Freemasons had learned the work as early as 1816, five years before the Grand Lodge was formed, from Jeremy L. Cross, whose True Masonic Chart or Hieroglyphic Monitor (1819), based on Thomas Smith Webb’s 1797 text,

which in turn was based on William Preston’s Illustrations of Masonry. In an autobiographical note published in 1853 as an appendix to the sixteenth of his 1819 monitor, Jeremy L. Cross spent a year from June 1816 on a grand tour as a Masonic lecturer, joined at times by Thomas Smith Webb and John Snow. While in Cincinnati and Louisville, Cross was visited by Brethren “from Indiana and Missouri, who obtained and carried home with them a correct knowledge of the Master Masons, Royal Arch, and Royal and Select Masters’ Degrees.” Thus was the Webb system taught to Missourians in the very year in which the Grand Lodge of Tennessee chartered Missouri Lodge #12, located at St. Louis, later Missouri Lodge #1 of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The ritual adopted by the Baltimore Convention was virtual identical with that used in Missouri.

In a description of a Masonic Lodge and its furnishings, we are told that one of the Jewels of a Lodge is the Trestle-Board, which is described as “movable,” i.e., with variable interpretations. The Trestle-Board is for the Master workman to draw his designs upon. “By the Trestle-Board we are also reminded that as the operative workman erects his temporal building agreeably to the rules and designs laid down by the Master on his Trestle-Board, so should we, both operative and speculative, endeavor to erect our spiritual building in accordance with the designs laid down by the Supreme Architect of the Universe in the Great Book of Nature and Revelation, which is our spiritual moral and Masonic Trestle-Board.”

The “Supreme Architect of the Universe,” a title borrowed from John Calvin, has provided the Trestle-Board upon which are found the designs for us in the work of building our character. It is the Volume of the Sacred Law, which from time immemorial has been for us the Holy Bible. Thus we are admonished to “practice out of the Lodge those great moral duties which are inculcated in it, and with reverence study and obey the laws which Thou hast given us in Thy Holy Word. Amen.”

Continued from back cover …

Grandson of lodge namesake initiatedOn Friday, December 9, 2011, Clarence Doyle Roberts

was initiated as an Entered Apprentice in Webster Lodge #98, Marshfield, Missouri. Beyond the sacred and emotional experience that Freemasons normally attach to an initia-tion is the fact that Brother Roberts was moved to petition Webster Lodge for the degrees after he attended a Masonic memorial service performed at the Ava Cemetery to hon-or his Grandfather, Sampson David Roberts, on the 75th anniversary of his death. The memorial service was featured in the Fall, 2011 edition of the Missouri Freemason maga-zine.

Sampson Lodge #298 in Theodosia, Missouri is named in honor of Sampson David Roberts who was instrumental

in organizing the Lodge and securing the Charter from the Grand Lodge of Missouri on October 18, 1900. The memo-rial service at the Ava Cemetery was conducted on April 16, 2011 by members of Sampson Lodge #298, Ava Lodge #26, and Robert Burns Lodge #496.

Several members of Sampson Lodge and Robert Burns Lodge traveled to Marshfield on December 9 to participate in Brother Roberts' initiation ceremony. The candidate was ob-ligated by Right Worshipful Brother Royce Wheeler, DDGL of the 42nd Masonic District of Missouri and Senior Warden of Sampson Lodge #298. It is certain that Brethren from the Lodge that bears his Grandfather's name will be at his side as he takes his second and third steps in Freemasonry.


lexington lodge relives area's Civil War Battle 150 Years later

By Gentry slone, secretary, lexington lodge #149

Lexington Lodge #149, Lexington, Missouri, held an extra special communica-tion attended by MWB John Hess on September 17, 2011, in conjunction with the Battle of Lexington Sesquicentenni-al (150-year) celebration. The Lodge met on the hallowed grounds of the former Ma-sonic College. On September 13, 1861, the Masonic Col-lege grounds were occupied by approximately 3,500 Federal troops commanded by Col-onel James Mulligan. Pro-Confederate forces numbering ap-proximately 12,000, commanded by Major General Sterling Price, opposed the Union army there.

The two armies engaged in a seven-day battle. The con-flict included numerous give-and-take assaults, including cavalry charges around the still-standing Anderson House, and a nine-hour artillery barrage. On September 20, pro-Confederate forces used hemp bales as shields and advanced close enough to Federal lines to force a Union surrender.

Federal forces suffered 39 killed and 120 wounded to pro-Confederate loses of only 25 killed and 72 wounded.

Thankfully in 2011, a much more peaceful event unfolded although reenactor cannon fire could be heard in the background. With the co-ordination of WB Phil Woal-folk, his son Mathew and several Civil War reenactors, WM Mark Schroer and Lex-

ington Lodge #149 raised Brother Jonathan Mitchell to the sublime degree of Master Mason. The Masonic College Park was transformed to a period Lodge with sentry John Burghel posted. DDGM William Siegfried obligated and lectured; WB Bob Hayes was King Solomon and DDGL Stan Massey gave the charge. A fall chill and brisk wind was felt and kept blowing out the 3 sacred lanterns. All 32 Brethren in atten-dance agreed it was an enjoyable event. Lexington Lodge #149 wishes to thank all who attended for their support and participation.

✮ missouri freemason DeaDlines ✮summer, 2012 april 2, 2012fall, 2012 July 2, 2012

Winter, 2012 october 1, 2012spring, 2013 January 3, 2013

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On Saturday, November 26, 2011 Most Worshipful Broth-er John Hess, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and several members of the Grand Lodge line gathered at the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Missouri to share in the raising of 20 new Master Masons. The Chance to Advance Class, (C2A), hosted by Fidelity Lodge #339 and WB Tim-othy Thompson of Farley, Missouri, was actually a region wide affair. Candidates and or representatives from the 15th, 16th,17th, 18, and 19th Masonic districts were in attendance making this a truly regional event.

The Brothers began arriving at the Temple at 6:30 AM to enjoy a breakfast of scrambled eggs, biscuits, gravy, and flapjacks prepared and served by the Sisters of Daisy Chap-ter #86 in Farley. During the lunch break the Brothers were

treated to hot meatball hoagies and sent back to labor with hands full of freshly baked cookies.

Among the first to arrive in the kitchen to offer his help and support was the Scottish Rite Valley’s newly appointed Personal Representative, Illustrious Brother Bob Harman. Brother Harman would stay for the entire day participating in the degree work and helping to demonstrate that the Blue Lodge was alive and thriving in Kansas City’s Scottish Rite Temple. Brother Harmon addressed the Class welcoming them to the Temple and giving them their first introduction to the Scottish Rite.

MWB John Hess facilitated the day's activities, pro-viding the candidates with a wealth of Masonic knowl-

fidelity lodge #339 hosts its first C2a ClassBy WB roy orth



moChiP is ready to helpRecent Events Focus on MoCHIP's Role

On the heels of the horrid outcome of St. Louis County’s 13 month-old baby, Tyler Dasher, especially while little Lisa Irwin of Kansas City, Missouri’s whereabouts remain un-known since October 3rd, Missouri parents need to heed this volatile message and safeguard their children.

No parent wants to believe that the unimaginable could happen to them, though across the state Missourian’s are currently experiencing two difficult instances, and nearly 2,000 children are reported missing or abducted in the Unit-ed States each day.

A current, good quality photo is the single most effec-tive tool in locating a missing child, this according to the NCEMC, National Center for Exploited and Missing Chil-dren, and MoCHIP (MissOuri CHild Identification and Protection Program) provides this “effective tool” digitally along with fingerprints and all the child’s vital information (age, height, weight, hair and eye color, etc.). Within a mat-ter of minutes the MoCHIP CD containing this information can be loaded into a computer directly form a police officers automobile and entered into the Amber Alert system. Time is crucial and every second saved can make the difference between a positive outcome and the unthinkable.

With more than 136,000 children processed FREE of charge through the MoCHIP Child ID program in 6 years, our system has been tested 8 times that we know of, and all children were returned safely to their families. Here’s how it works: The program consists of five major components—digital photographs, digital fingerprints, vital child informa-tion and emergency contacts, a dental bite impression, and two laminated ID cards. The photographs, fingerprints, and child data are burned onto a mini-CD that is compatible with the AMBER ALERT system already in place. The dental im-pression provides a virtual diagram of the child’s biting sur-face, which, like fingerprints is unique to each individual,

and further supplies enough saliva to provide a DNA sam-ple that can also be used as scent source for trained canine search teams. Combined, this five-part process provides a dramatic, time-sensitive recovery tool for authorities.

Once the child is processed through the program, which generally takes only 15 minutes, the parent is armed with a single pre-printed envelope that instructs authorities in the event of an emergency, something a parent in crisis would undoubtedly have trouble with, and a proactive measure to combat the time sensitivity involved in recovery.

On the day of the MoCHIP event, parents are urged to gather pertinent information about such as, doctor, dentist, and emergency contact and phone numbers, allergies, medi-cations, and parent work, cell, and assorted phone numbers. Information Collection Forms and Permission slips can be downloaded from the MoCHIP.org Web site and filled out ahead of time. Height charts and scales are available at the event to facilitate the most current details regarding the child. As would be expected, security and privacy are of utmost importance. All information and specimens are col-lected on site, processed and provided to the parent or legal guardian in a yellow envelope. At the end of each event, da-tabases are erased using state-of-the-art software. The only item retained is the signed permission slip.

MoCHIP is solely sponsored by the Masonic Children’s Foundation (MCF) of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Please visit our Web site (www.MoCHIP.org) for more information or to find an event, click on the calendar tab and use the blue arrows to see upcoming months.

For more information on becoming a corporate partner or to make a donation, please contact MCF State Coordinator, Nicholas R. Cichielo (636-530-6069, email [email protected]).

Continued from previous page …edge second to none in the C2A classes I’ve ever been a part of. The youngest candidate, a 19-year-old from Farley Lodge, had never been to the Temple and eagerly expressed his amazement at the splendor and beauty of the facility. Imagine being hoodwinked and led into the auditorium for your second degree, you’re brought into more light and be-hold for the first time the incredible architecture and ap-pointments of the Temple. To be raised by the Grand Master and become part of the oldest and most time honored broth-erhood in the world: what an incredible image to cherish for a lifetime.

WB Timothy Thompson and I wish to personally thank all the Brothers who participated in making this class a success and especially note MWB John Hess, RWB Brent Stewart and the Grand Lodge Officers for their willingness to leave their families on a holiday weekend and come to our Temple.

Thanks also to Brother Bob Harman for his support in em-phasizing that our Temple should be and is the center for Masonic activities in our Region. We also thank Right Wor-shipful Brothers Jack DeSelms, Mike Wheeler, Mike Allen, Dan Sewing, Ron Hickey and Worshipful Brother Gary Bar-ron for all their hard work in setting up and making this class a reality.

It was suggested that the C2A class at the Scottish Rite Temple be made a regional bi-annual event allowing the op-portunity for hosting to be regularly rotated throughout all the Lodges. This would afford the Brothers from each region in the area the rare opportunity to work together planning and staging the C2A class. It would also ensure the high standards of Masonic ritual and education envisioned by MWB Hess are shared throughout Northwest Missouri.


“Cue the moon,” could have been in a movie direc-tor’s notes for the night of October 8, as the moon ar-rived in perfect timing for the beginning of the Moon-light Lodge. In reality, many months of planning brought the Brethren of District 27 to-gether for this perfect evening of venue, weather, and the as-cension of the moon; and as the Moonlight Lodge opened at sunset beneath a cloudless sky, all was in preparation for the night.

As an event, The Moonlight Lodge was designed to bring together the Lodges of Districts 27A, 27B, and 27C in a unique venue so that we could meet each other and reach out to look at our common Masonic past, present and future. The idea for this event was discussed for over a year without much success because of a lack of a suitable location, but the expertise gained in the production of The Lost Symbols of Saint Louis Scavenger Hunt gave us the knowledge and expertise to use this secluded site at Bellefontaine Cemetery in Saint Louis.

Even though Bellefontaine Cemetery contains nearly 200 years of Masonic history, its selection as a choice for a Ma-sonic meeting would not leap immediately to mind. What Bellefontaine Cemetery also contains is Hotchkiss Cha-pel, which is isolated on peninsula deep within the private grounds of the property, before which stands an east-west aligned palazzo. This location also had the added benefit of a magnificently maintained environment with a very agree-able management.

Once we had secured the site as a possible location we contacted our DDGM, RWB Ray Vollmar, who was very supportive of our ideas for this event, and who guided our steps through the approval process with the Grand Lodge. This included a written description of what we proposed to do and a thorough photographic essay to assure that the site was well protected from cowans and eavesdroppers. Mean-while, the Brethren of the Lodge formed up to provide lo-gistics for moving our Lodge outdoors and procuring all the fittings needed for this event.

Tours of the cemetery began the event, followed by a ca-tered dinner. Beginning at sunset, the cemetery was sealed from visitors and the chapel was bathed in light from twenty five torches and a beacon fire. The grounds were consecrated by our new DDGM, RWB Jeffrey Parrotte, after which the Moonlight Lodge was opened by the officers of Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1. When the time came to close the Moon-

light Lodge, the Wardens and Master were replaced by the three DDGMs of District 27, to symbolize the unity of our district: RWB Matt Wilson of 27A, RWB Jeffrey Parrotte of 27B, and RWB Peter Cauchon of 27C. We were also hon-ored to have approximately 65 guests in attendance, in-cluding three members of the Grand Line of the Grand Lodge of Missouri; RWB Jon Broyles, Grand Senior War-den; RWB David Haywood,

Junior Grand Warden; and RWB Richard Smith, Junior Grand Deacon.

A special presentation was made by WM Andre McDan-iel, in the form of presenting a most welcomed surprise guest for the evening, RWB Christopher M. Reid, of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi and the Mississippi Lodge of Research. RWB Reid was given the floor to discuss Moon-light Lodges and their history in Mississippi at which time he mentioned that he had never before seen a Moonlight Lodge meeting outside of a building. He also mentioned that many Moonlight Lodges were in fact military travel-ing Lodges and he presented a framed print of the Missis-sippi Rifles, whose members formed the 1st Regiment Army Lodge of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, and was a United States military traveling Lodge.

It might seem that it would be enough for the Moonlight Lodge to provide a unique venue to an unusual event, but the idea behind the Moonlight Lodge was to provide a common venue for all of District 27 to gather to explore our past, our present, and our future.

The Masonic past was ably represented by Brother Robert Meinert, Senior Steward of Saint Louis Missouri #1, who was able to capitalize on the setting of Bellefontaine Cem-etery for a discussion of those who came before us. While the list of names available for his use was nearly endless, Brother Meinert was able to focus us some of the amazing lesser known members of our Fraternity and the impact that they had on our community. This allowed all of us the ability to see the most important part of his speech, that of the role our Lodge had in developing these men who helped to lay the foundation for the Lodges of Missouri and the growth of Masonry west of the Mississippi.

To provide a look at our present Masonic condition, we were most fortunate to secure the services of RWB Jon Broyles, Senior Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge of Mis-souri. This presentation could not have been timelier in that

the moonlight lodge of saint louis missouri lodge #1By ty G. treutelaar, Wm saint louis missouri lodge #1

Part of the crowd gathered in St. Louis' Bellefontaine Cemetery for the Moonlight Lodge. Photo by Andre P. McDaniel, PM.



the Grand Lodge is forming meetings to discuss issues and plans throughout the state. RWB Broyles has been travel-ing throughout the state to participate in these meetings and gather information. As always, his presentation was very candid and forthright, and left us with anticipation and pride to be part of this Grand Lodge.

The presentation of the Masonic future tipped our hand as to the true nature of our meeting of the Moonlight Lodge. As with many things Masonic, sometimes different meanings come forward at different times, and the Moonlight Lodge was no exception. In discussing the future of the Lodges I brought forth that Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 had devel-oped the 1621 Project, of which the Moonlight Lodge was but a part. The 1621 Project is so named for the year of 2016, when Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 turns 200 years old; and the year of 2021, which marks the 200th anniversary of Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 calling the convention for the formation of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.

In looking at our future, all of the Lodges have different resources, demographics, and realities which they face; so it would be quite presumptuous to attempt to give any specific direction or criticism to any particular Lodge. But in looking at the minutes and writings of the Brethren that have come before us, and the Brethren that now live amongst us today, a common thread of arguments is seen throughout all of the past and present: not enough money, not enough attendance, and no one knows the ritual. These common arguments have been apparent in all the Lodges through multiple genera-tions, and are evident throughout the minutes and contem-porary writings. Therefore the presentation of the formation of the 1621 Project is based on the commonality of issues which our Lodges all face.

But also apparent is another argument of a very positive nature. That is the argument that we have a habit of rallying under a canopy of events at which time our Lodges grow and prosper. The building and growth of our city, the construc-tion of our state, the building of a new Temple; all bring about times and changes to our Lodges which are usually quite remarkable. This rallying under events, directs our Fra-ternity towards goals that are greater than ourselves and in that context we are reaching out to create the events that will allow us to focus on the future.

At Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1, we have the unique timing of these 200 year anniversaries to capture the imagi-nation of the years of 2016 and 2021, and with the formation of this project we are focusing on the decisions and events that we can use to provide greater financial security, keep our members interested in Lodge, and embrace the ritual. It is not the events of the 1621 Project which are the key, it is the application of the Brethren engaging in their future that is key; and to this end all Lodges have the opportunity to ex-pand on a future event to allow their Lodges the opportunity for growth. In setting forth this project we went directly to the complaints: not enough money, not enough attendance, and no one knows the ritual.

Not Enough Money — As a Lodge, we have been very fortunate with adequate funds that are well invested and strong foresight in maintaining an adequate dues structure; and to that we are dedicated to a five year plan to make sure that we stay well ahead of expenses. In an area meeting last spring, our Grand Treasurer, RWB Nick Cichielo made two amazing points that have been set in motion within the 1621 Project: “If a Lodge budget starts with a negative amount, it will end with a negative amount,” and the presentation of a matrix of what your Lodge dues should be in relation to what they were in the 1920’s. The 1621 Project is addressing our long term financial needs well before we have an issue. This is of singular importance because we all must realize that part of our obligation is to support charity work, but if our Lodges are themselves receiving charity, we have failed unto ourselves.

Not Enough Attendance — The 1621 project has allowed for Monthly Masonic Education to help teach and expand the esoteric knowledge of Freemasonry and give much need-ed practical advice as to its application. Explanations of the meaning of ritual, Lodge etiquette, Lodge Structure, and his-tory of the craft are all but parts of the endless educational opportunities for our members. We provide this education as means to interest the Brethren in attending the meetings, to give them a reason for taking the time to come to Lodge, and the knowledge to gain confidence in participating in the Lodge.

No One Knows the Ritual — This is a complaint that links directly to Masonic Education, so that our Brethren can learn the meaning behind the ritual that is being memorized. The more Brothers learn about a ritual, the more they wish to know the ritual, and the more they wish to attempt the ritual. As part of the 1621 Project, the Brethren know they are encouraged to attempt to learn the ritual and that they will never be faulted for their participation. This allows for greater participation and interest in the rituals and a desire to wish to bring forward the knowledge that the Brothers are gaining.

As part of the above three areas, this project also utilizes the Past Masters in each committee and in the mentoring and progression of the advancing officer line. We develop and mentor our line officers by using our Past Masters so their knowledge can be fully used by the advancing line so that we might always continue with new Masters of the Lodge. We wish to encourage our line with knowledge and not berate the members for mistakes while they are trying something new.

In summation, we are focusing our efforts on the growth and development of the future, not the exhausting and fruit-less arguments of today; and with that Saint Louis Missouri Lodge #1 will be ready actively to step forward to lead and serve as called upon at the beginning of these next 200 years, to help grow the craft and ensure that we are here to make good men better.



Happy Spring to all Missouri Masons! Hopefully you’ve all survived the winter (it’s very mild

as I write this) and are ready to tackle whatever work ... and play you have planned for the next few months.

I will soon finish my Grand Worthy Advisor visits. It’s been a quick year with many, many miles traveled. March will take me to Ashland, Columbia and the DeMolay Knights Dance. I will also visit Leadership Assembly (formerly Mexico) which is now located in Centralia — thanks to all who helped make this move. In April, my Grand Officers and I will help get Camp Barnabas ready for the new summer sessions and, in May, I am SO looking forward to attending Oklahoma’s Grand Assembly.

Speaking of Camp Barnabas, the “toilet paper war” be-tween the Grand Officers and State Officers is stacking up. Can you contribute? Please bring a sack-full to any Rain-bow Assembly! Camp Barnabas offers acceptance and love to more than 1,300 campers with special needs and chronic disease — and their siblings — in locations across the Unit-ed States. Through adaptive activities, people with physi-cal, mental, and/or medical challenges become participants, not observers, in the world around them. They leave Camp Barnabas knowing they are uniquely created to live lives of

ability (www.camp-barnabas.org). The main Camp Barn-abas facility is lo-cated in Purdy, Mis-souri, and its “need” list is long. About 1,000 rolls of toi-let paper are needed each week and about 10,000 napkins each week — and these are just two of the many items on their “need” list. Please contact our Supreme Inspec-tor, Catherine Dent, for a complete list. ([email protected])

Catherine has re-cently compiled the year-end reports from Missouri’s 21 Assemblies. I’m proud to report that 11 of those 21 As-semblies showed an INCREASE in mem-

bership! How exciting! She stated that 76 girls were initiated in 2011. Have you taken the time to visit an Assembly yet? I know “first time” Mason visitors have been at many of my GWA visits — personally, this has been ultra-thrilling for me! Thank you to those of you who HAVE visited... or who are now making plans to visit your nearest Assembly. Check out our website at www.moiorg.org for a list of Assemblies — please email the Mother Advisor or Catherine before you go to verify that the information is current.

I have begun receiving Worthy Advisor Installation invi-tations. It’s an exciting time for these girls when they change stations. Traditionally, our Sister of Faith moves to Sister of Hope, who moves to Sister of Charity, who moves to Wor-thy Associate Advisor, who moves to Worthy Advisor. This advancement may take two years (each term is usually six months). Before being elected into this “line,” she may serve as a Bow Station (Love, Religion, Nature, Immortality, Fi-delity, Patriotism, Service) or another station such as Chap-lain, Drill Leader, or Confidential Observer. Some of the As-semblies have gained enough members to have a Musician (often in charge of a boom box now) and more than one may be starting a Choir! Again, I am so proud of my Missouri Rainbow Sisters and am grateful for the support you con-tinue to give them!

I started this term with the theme “Be Heard” and hope, by following me in these articles, you have found a way to

Grand Worthy Advisor Brianne Sisco

Early risers from Service (Raytown) and Marlborough (Grandview) Assemblies Trick or Treated for canned goods for a local food pan-try. Only about 1/2 their loot is shown — over 100 lbs. collected.



make this YOUR motto. It’s hard to step outside our com-fort zone! It’s hard to pick up the phone and ask what you can do … or volunteer to bring ice cream sandwiches to an Assembly’s next meeting. It’s hard to attend a meeting and approach the Worthy Advisor to compliment her or thank her for your introduction — believe me, she’s more nervous, though, than you!

There is much excitement already brewing for our Grand Assembly 2012, which will be held at the University Pla-za Convention Center in Springfield, Missouri. Please … PLEASE come to our Grand Opening — although you are also welcome at many of our other sessions. Grand Opening will be June 24 (Sunday) at 3:00 p.m. A suit for you, a nice dress for your wife — and an awesome afternoon for all! Some of the highlights of that session will be entrances of our local Worthy Advisors and Mother Advisors, a stunning Cavalcade of Flags (performed by our Grand Representa-

tives with flags for Jurisdictions where Rainbow is located), a Pledge Ceremony (you will be stunned at how effortless these 6 to 10 year old girls perform their memory work), Scholarship presentations, and other awards — including the Grand Master’s Award. Please come and show your support … please “Be Heard” with your applause … and probably laughter! I would LOVE for you to seek me out afterward and let me know you “read about it here!”

Well, I’d better stop now — it’s time to review MY mem-ory work and check out my wardrobe and responsibilities for Grand Assembly. Again, I truly hope to see you there!

To close, my challenge to Missouri’s Rainbow Girls could be a challenge for you too: Step out of your comfort zone, go against the crowd, be uncommon, stand firm in your faith and BE HEARD!

Peace, Joy & Love — Brianne SiscoGrand Worthy Advisor 2011-2012

Happy New Year … I hope 2012 is the best year yet for all Masonic Affiliated Organiza-tions. Fall was a great time for Missouri Job’s Daughters. My own Bethel sponsored a hayride that raised needed funds for our Grand Bethel and hosted a wonderful reception in my honor. Many, many Bethels welcomed new members as well! We have a great membership promo-tion challenge going on for our members and the Bethels and they are all working very hard. On March 16, we will be having a Promotional banquet at the Scottish Rite in St. Louis. All Masonic Bodies are invited. If you would like more information, contact Mom Julia Wallace at [email protected]. Hope to see some of you there.

A highlight of our Grand Bethel year is al-ways our annual fun weekend called Mini Ses-sion. Ours is coming up on March 31 and April 1, in Springfield, Missouri. This all fun weekend will have a “Down on the Farm, Country Fair Theme” this year and I hope many will be able to attend.

Another event coming in the spring is the annual Mid America HIKE. HIKE, Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment, is the official charity of Job’s Daughters. Our members around the world raise funds to purchase hearing aids and other hearing devices for needy children. Last year HIKE celebrated 25 years of service. Each year the Job’s Daugh-ters from Missouri join members from Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska for a fund raising event. This year we will travel to Iowa on the first Saturday in May for this great event. My

own HIKE project is a beautiful handmade quilt that will be given away at Grand Session in June. If you would like a chance to win or would like to make a donation to HIKE, just contact me ([email protected]). If you know of a child who could use help from HIKE, let us know and we will put the family in touch with the right people to get them help.

Again, Happy New Year and the best to all who are in-volved in our great Masonic family.

Sincerely, Ashley Ray, PHQGrand Bethel Honored Queen


Grand Bethel Junior Princess Amy Bush, Grand Bethel Honored Queen Ashley Ray, Grand Bethel Senior Princess Tiffany Hudson.


As the number one jurisdiction of The Order of DeMolay, Missouri has just recently implemented a variety of addi-tions and changes, inspired by the Masonic Grand Lodge of Missouri. With a strong ambition to continue to flourish and shine brighter, the most significant change took place on November 5th, 2011, at one of the most remarkable cer-emonies in the history of Missouri DeMolay. Not only was this an utmost inspirational experience, but also the changes that we have set forth were revealed at this Installation of Jurisdictional Officers. The biggest change that took place was moving from seven Areas to five Districts and therefore having 5 District Deputy Master Councilors, rather than the seven Area Master Councilors that we have had in the past. Another significant difference is the other half of the State Officer Corps. We have gone from our traditional line of of-ficers to a new and more effective approach. This change has been implemented through the five Ambassadors for the following designated areas: Communication, Knighthood, Membership, Ritual and Squires.

We have a full term plan with many activities that will take place each month. Aside from all of the fun events, we are also implementing District Meetings with an outlook com-parable to those of the Grand Lodge. And as always, we are Building Freemasonry Through DeMolay. As our members grow older, the majority of them turn towards Freemasonry for an even greater fraternal brotherhood. This is not only an advantage of DeMolay, but it is our way of giving back to the Grand Lodge members for all of the support they have pro-vided to our great organization. With vast improvements and changes, Missouri DeMolay will continue to show the world why we have been number one for the past several years and will continue to do so!

Brother Brandon Cockerham, 32° Scottish Rite Mason (State Master Councilor)

the Grand lodge inspires missouri Demolay


a message from masonic home executive Director, Keith neese

a Creating-a-Partnership Project

As the New Year begins, I am pleased to announce that the Masonic Home of Missouri has a new Director of Develop-ment, RWB Rick V. Kern. This has been an extensive search process that the Development Committee and I have been fo-cused on for the past two years.

RWB Kern has worked in the for-profit world for 39 years. In 1975, Rick joined Theodore Roosevelt Lodge #661. Twenty-five years later he became a member of Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79. Rick was elected to the Masonic Home Board of Directors in 2004, where he served on the Admission and Dis-cipline committee for four years, and served as chairman of the committee for three of those years, assisting with the review of Outreach applications.

Rick shared, "The four years I spent on the Board of Di-rectors for the Masonic Home were the best years in all my experiences as a Freemason." He also said, "The work of the Masonic Home is an expression of true giving, since many of those receiving assistance are individuals our members will never know. It is truly assisting with no expectation in return." He further shared, "It has always been a dream of mine to be

able to have a job where I can give back. What better way to do so than in the Fraternity I cherish being a part of."

We welcome RWB Kern as a part of the Masonic Home of Mis-souri team.

In addition to the newest mem-ber of the team, I am excited to say we are receiving positive support from our Holiday Fund Drive that was sent out to the membership in November. It is our hope that you will consider giving to the Masonic Home and help continue its good works throughout our membership and state.

Fraternally,

H. Keith Neese, Executive Director, Masonic Home of Missouri

In the small community of Lamar, Missouri there is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization called Good Samaritan that hosts a project called the “Christmas Project." Last year, this project provided families in need with a large box of food for Christ-mas dinner; each child received a gift and senior citizens and the disabled also received a gift. This cost the Good Samaritan almost $11,000 to fund and the organization had to pull monies from another budgeted account in order to make ends meet.

This year, due to the economy, more and more families are in need. The Good Samaritan was unable to provide gifts for children, the elderly and disabled, but its hope was to provide food so these families could enjoy a good Christmas meal to-gether.

Lamar Lodge #292 and Mount Hope Chapter #74, OES, heard about this non-profit organization’s need for food for needy families in Barton County. Together they combined their efforts and raised $530 for the Good Samaritan. The Masonic Home of Missouri matched their donation and Lamar Lodge and Mount Hope Chapter were able to purchase $1,060 in food for families in need in their county through the Good Samari-tan.

We hope many Lodges across the state will take part in this new addition to the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Creating-A-Partnership Program. We are here to help Lodges make a dif-ference in their communities.

the short of how it works:

Lodges and Chapters can identify projects within their com-munities through charitable or other non-profit organizations, such as schools.

Recipients of the CAP Project-Based funds must be a 501 (c) (3) public charitable organization, as defined by the IRS, or public entities such as school districts.

An example of a project that may qualify is the backpack food program found in communities statewide.

Matching funds must go toward the purchase of a specific item(s). The Masonic Home will not match funds for general operating expenses.

Once a need has been identified, the Lodge/Chapter must complete and submit an application and worksheet (available online at www.mohome.org or by contacting the Masonic Home).

Once items are purchased the Lodge/Chapter will be re-sponsible for providing a copy of receipt(s) showing how funds were spent. The Lodge/Chapter will not be able to make an additional request until all receipts are received. The Masonic Home will not reimburse for purchases already made. Pur-chase must be made within five (5) days of receiving funds. Tax exemption certification will be provided for purchase.


masonic family Cares

masonic home of missouri 10th annual Golf outing

masonic Widow’s luncheons

The Masonic Family Cares is a new program that will help facilitate connections between Lodges, Chapters, youth organi-zations and the Masonic Brothers and Sisters in their commu-nities. Each day there are Brothers, Sisters, Masonic couples and widows who live alone. These individuals or couples may not have a financial need, but have need of a friendly face to offer companionship, or a helping hand around their home.

Brother John Litzau of Craftsmen Lodge #717 is the Ma-sonic Home Representative for his Lodge; keeping in touch with the Masonic Widows in his area by email and phone. Each year Brother Litzau sends both Christmas and birthday cards, in addition to organizing a Ladies Night each month where members of Craftsmen Lodge fix dinner. Concluding dinner

the ladies are welcome to stay and play bingo, cards, or just visit with one another.

Since initiating this program in September Brother Litzau has already dedicated 20 hours of service. Lodges/Chapters interested in participating in this program can contact the Ma-sonic Home at 800-434-9804 and ask for the Masonic Family Cares Coordinator to inquire about establishing relationships with Masonic Brothers, widows or OES members in your area who would enjoy visiting with a fellow Masonic member. If your Lodge is already participating and doing these great works within your community, please share your stories with us by email at [email protected], or by regular mail at 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite A, Columbia, Missouri, 65202.

Mark your calendars! The golf tournament is early this year, Monday, June 25, 2012, at the Columbia Country Club in Columbia, Missouri. This is a fundraising event specifically for the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Children’s Outreach and Creating-A-Partnership programs. The cost is $125 per player. Foursomes and singles are welcome. Registration forms have been sent out to members who have previously participated in this exciting event.

This is a day full of friends, food, games, raffle prizes, silent auction and player/team prizes. We hope that you can be a part of helping children and your communities statewide through participation as a player, or sponsor.

If you are interested in playing in or sponsoring this event through a donation, please call 800-434-9804 and speak with a staff member in the Public Relations department.

Fore our Kids!

In 2011, the Masonic Home of Missouri traveled across the state to meet with our Masonic Widows. Each widow — whose information is provided by Lodges — received a personal in-vitation for a free lunch. This gave our staff the opportunity to give a presentation regarding the Outreach Program and visit one-on-one with the widows, answering any questions they may have about eligibility, their different life situations and how the program may apply.

These luncheons have been a huge success. Most of our wid-ows feel more comfortable in asking their questions in this more intimate setting and visiting with other ladies that share their experiences.

This spring we will start the widow’s luncheons again; visiting areas we were not able to in 2011. If you are a Masonic Home of

Missouri Representative for your Lodge please be on the look-out for an invitation. We do not send invitations out by district. We invite representatives whose Lodges are 30 to 40 miles from the town where we are hosting the luncheon. We would like our Masonic Widows to meet Masonic Home Representatives from their area/town so that they know who they can contact if they have questions, or other needs that are not financial.

We look forward to another successful year with this new program. We ask Lodges to please make sure we have accurate information for widows in your area so that no widow is left out on this important — possible life changing — information.

The Good Samaritan Christmas Project has received a dona-tion of $1,060 from Lamar Masonic Lodge #292 and Mount Hope Chapter #74 Order of the Eastern Star. The two orga-nizations raised a combined total of $530 that was matched through a partnership with the Masonic Home of Missouri. Left to right are Wanda Reno, Past Matron, OES; Ben Fixette, Mas-ter, Lamar Masonic Lodge; Pat Neely, manager Good Sa-maritan; and Carl Arft, Lamar Masonic Lodge. Photo and story courtesy Lamar Demo-crat/Richard Cooper.


As a partner with the State of Missouri and the Missouri Adopt-A-Highway Program, on Oct 3, 2011, members of Hale City Lodge #216 participated in the Lodge's fall Adopt-A-Highway cleanup.

Sullivan Lodge #69 Installation of Officers was held on September 2, 2011 during an open ceremony. Pictured are the Officers for the 2011-2012 term, along with Installing Officers.

Recently Billings Lodge #379 donated money to the Billings School "Paw Pack" program. Brother Terry Bean is shown presenting a check to Natalie Verch, Secretary at Billings Elementary School. Pictured (left to right): Lodge Secretary David Hart, Brother Bean, Ms. Verch and WM David Anderson.

On Saturday, October 15, the members of Sampson Lodge #298 teamed up with the graduating seniors of Lutie High School in Theodosia for a fundraiser breakfast served at the Lodge. All profits were donated to "Project Grad" which provides for a fun and safe post graduation celebration.

lodge notes• On October 18, 2011, Hale City Lodge #216 presented 11-year-

old Tug with a Certificate of Appreciation. On October 8 at the Hale Festival, through Tug's efforts, he raised $230 for the Hale Masonic Lodge Scholarship Fund and Local Charity Fund. Tug is the son of a member of Hale City Lodge.

• WB Harold Lindauer was named Mason of the Year during installation of officers ceremonies at Hope Lodge #251 Saturday, August 20. David R. Whittaker, Worshipful Master, made the presen-tation.

• Worshipful Brother John Gremard of Troy Lodge #34 recently presented a check to Jamie Hansen of FlightSafety International. Troy Lodge #34 and FlightSafety worked in cooperation on a pan-cake breakfast benefiting The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation's Tissue Bank. The cooperative effort raised over $530

to donate to the Tissue Bank.

• Rolla Lodge #213 raised Brother John Edward Meyer to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason with WB Gerald Hill obligating. WB Columbus Craft conducted the lecture with WB Bill Neighbors and WB Frank Jurotich raising. Brother Meyer was presented with his Grandfather’s Masonic ring at the conclusion of the ceremo-nies.

• Officers of Sampson Lodge #298, and Eastern Star Chapter #130 participated in the Theodosia Area Chamber of Commerce “Meet the Community” event which was held on Tuesday, Decem-ber 6, 2011, at Lutie School. The event serves to introduce residents and visitors to the various businesses, resorts, clubs and organiza-tions located in the Theodosia area.


Recently, members of Hale City Lodge #216 cut two loads of firewood for a local resident injured in an accident. WM Lloyd G. Lyon stated, "the members of Hale City Lodge are always ready and able to lend a helping hand in times of need. Thanks to the members and the little men who came together to make this happen." Pictured left to right: James Burks, Gary Hughes, Andrew Hughes, Lee Fisher, Caden Hughes and John Bruner. Photo by Lloyd G Lyon.

Union Lodge #593 conferred three Fellowcraft Degrees at a spe-cial communication December 10, 2011. RWB Nick Cichielo, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Missouri AF&AM, under dis-pensation from the Grand Master, conducted the Middle Cham-ber Lecture in the "New York Version." Shown left to right are RWB Cichielo, Fellowcrafts Curtis Lee Cooper, William E. Koch, Samuel W. Nipper and Worshipful Master of Union Lodge #593, Warren E. Dixon.

Jewel Lodge #480, Pleasant Hill, Missouri, hosted a Chance to Advance class on December 17, 2011. Assisting the Lodge were Grand Orator Aaron Shoemaker, Grand Chaplain William Snyder and Grand Orator Freeman Stanfill. Four brothers were passed to the degree of Fellowcraft and six were raised to the degree of Master Mason.

During the Christmas holiday Hale City Lodge #216 partnered in a community project with Rho Eta Sorority to provide Christmas meals for 18 local workers and their families displaced by a plant closing. The Lodge provided the turkeys and adopted 2 fami-lies, providing food, clothing and toys. The Lodge also provided another 7 families with turkeys. Brethren pictured (left to right): Harold Shatto, Bobby Barlow, Lloyd G. Lyon, Lee Fisher, Bobby Dale Barlow, Gary Hughes, James Burks, Don Lightfoot. Not pictured: Mark Fisher.

Members of Sampson Lodge #298, and Robert Burns Lodge #496 participated in the Gainesville Christmas Parade that was held on Saturday, December 10, 2011. The Masons from Gainesville and Theodosia rode in two classic trucks which were provided by Worshipful Brother Bobby Grisham, Treasurer of Robert Burns Lodge #496.

Forsyth Lodge #453 recently installed its officers for the 2011-2012 term. Shown are (front row, left to right): RWB Bill Cox, Robert Craig, WB Clayton C. Cooper, Tom Trotter, WB Ron Erickson, WB Noel Campbell; (back row): Ronnie Combs, Lynn Behrends, RWB Bob Alexander, RWB Knial Iorg, Rick Davidson, RWB Johnny Essary, G.T. Bracey.


Christian Lodge #392, Oak Grove, Missouri, held a Past Masters' Dinner in conjunction with the Lodge's 140th anniversary. The Past Masters are (front row; left to right): James Rumbo, 2001 & 2004; Paul Clampitt, 1965; Robert Cowan, 2012; Raymond Miller, 1979; Lawrence Dennis, 1983 & 1990. Center row: James E. Leath, Jr., 2010; Carl Castle, 2008; RWB Ken Crawford, 2009; Pete Mathews, Chilhowee Lodge, 1954. Back row: RWB Harvey Wells, Grandview Lodge #618, 1985; Gerry Hatfield, Lompoc Lodge #262, Lompoc California; Don Case, 1983 & 2003; Tom Umstead, 2011; Jim Hen-ning, 1984; Don Dennis, 1968, 1974 and 1990.

On Wednesday, December 21, members of California Masonic Lodge #183 AF&AM met to conduct their annual Christmas Basket program. This year, 15 families were presented with baskets of sta-ple food items in the hope that the food might provide a brighter Christmas for them. Also this year members of the Twin City 4-H Club helped with putting together the baskets and delivering them. The 4-H Club also ensured that each child in each family received a small Christmas gift such as an activity book or stuffed animal. Pictured are WB Steve Derendinger, WB Grover Johnson, RWB Steve Liebi, WB Bryan Wolford, Joe Liebi and David Ratliff.

Belle Lodge #373 and Lanes Prairie Lodge #531 recently present-ed a $1,600 check to Belle Elementary and Belle Bland Middle School to support each school's Backpack Buddy Program. Pic-tured are Constance Smith, Elementary Counselor; Carey Drehle, Elementary Principal; WB Don Vandegriffe, Masonic Home Rep-resentative; WB John Crossley, Worshipful Master of Belle Lodge #373. Thanks to the efforts of the Brethren of these two Lodges and matching funds from the Masonic Home of Missouri, the needs of the children will be met.

Once again Linn Creek Lodge #152 held a successful Christmas 2011 food drive to assist families in the area who were in need of assistance during the holidays. Thanks to the many merchants in the Lake of the Ozarks area and our members we were able to collect $5,600 in food, cash and toiletries. These items were then donated to seven families plus five service organizations that help those in need in our area. Lodge members pictured (front row, left to right): WB Bill Gansemer, Paul Warman and WM Tony Helms. (Second row): WB Jimmie Brashear and John Stevens. (Third row): WB Larry Clemens, WB Gary Bowling, and Chris Moehie.

As a part of its installation program, Liberty Lodge #31 honored Kenneth Aiello for his 42 years of service as the Lodge's treasurer. Worshipful Brother Aiello is shown with members of his family who were in attendance.

Liberty Lodge #31 has installed its officers for the 2011, 2012 term. Pictured are (front row, left to right): Robert Graham, Kenneth Aiello, Ed Marrow, Charlie Mitchell, Ron Elliott. Back row: John Cochran, Bennie Vitale, Mark Zimmer and Shawn Robinson.


Jack L. Cuneio, Sullivan Lodge #69, received his 50-year pin and certificate from RWB H. Ray Wise, DDGM of the 24th Masonic District of Missouri at an open ceremony held on December 16, 2011.

At the stated communication of California Lodge #183 on November 8, 2011, WB Robert (Bob) Kueffer was presented with his 50-year pin and certificate. The ceremony was open to the public so his family could attend and participate. He was accompa-nied by his wife, daughter, and brother, WB Cletus Kueffer. The Lodge is very proud of its 50-year members and welcomes WB Bob to this very special group.

Brother Fredrick Shaw received his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri at Pythagoras Lodge #358, Panama City Beach, Florida. Worshipful Master David Robinson made the presen-tation on behalf of Mechanicsville Lodge #260 in Defiance, Missouri.

On December 14, Ralls Lodge #33 present-ed WB James Tutor with his 50-year jewel and certificate. It was such a cold day in January, 1961, that Jim actually had to build a wood fire under the motor of his Nash Rambler to get the oil warmed up in or-der to make it to Lodge for his First Degree. Making the presentation is his son Brad, a Mason since 1978. The tradition continues.

On Tuesday, February 15, members of Vandalia Lodge #491 presented Kenneth McDonald with his 50-year pin and certific-ate prior to the opening of Lodge. Brother McDonald (right) is shown being pinned by his son Eugene. Also present for the cer-emony were his sons Randy and Dwayne and Eugene's wife Nancy. Brother McDon-ald's fifty-year anniversary was on January 25, 2011.

Brother Robert Burnup received his 65-year pin on November 14, 2011 even though he has been a member of Lodge #76 for 67 years; he was raised a Master Mason on December 14, 1944. It is an honor to be a brother of someone who has been a Mason that length of time. How many Masons can even remember the year 1944? DDGM Chris Harrelson made the presentation. It was a tearful occasion as Brother Burnup's grand-son, Mark Dobson, Chaplain of Lodge #76, attached the pin. Photo and article submit-ted by Senior Warden John Bill Wallace.

On January 12, 2012, prior to a regular communication of Linn Creek Lodge #152 DDGM Michael Day presented WB James Atkis-son with a proclamation and pin representing his 50 years in Free-masonry. Pictured left to right are Worshipful Master Tony Helms, WB James Atkisson Past Master of Linn Creek Lodge #152 in 1966, Gene Oitker Past Rajah of Lake of the Ozarks Shrine Club, and RWB Michael Day DDGM of the 30th Masonic District.


On Friday, November 25, 2011, Robert Davis received his 50-year pin and certificate in his home. It was presented by RWB J. Steve Dodson on behalf of the officers and members of Algabil-Free-dom Lodge #636, in appreciation for his years of Masonic service.

RWB Robert E. Lee Martin, DDGL of the 24th District of Missouri, assists Harrison W. Eaton, James A. Ruble and Albert W. Sellers who received their 50-year pins at a ceremony held on April 15, 2011. RWB H. Ray Wise, DDGM of the 24th Masonic District of Missouri conducted the ceremony and presented the pins, certificates and letters from the Grand Lodge of Missouri.

Worshipful Brother Melvin Smith is beginning his 63rd year as a member of Crescent Hill Lodge #368 at Adrian, Missouri. Brother Charles Bridges, knowing WB Smith has been a bit under the weather, designed a Masonic Throw Quilt for him. He drew Ma-sonic symbols on it and pieced it together, then Brother Bridges' wife Martha Lou hand-quilted it. The new quilt is perfect to help keep Brother Smith snug in his favorite recliner as he reads and watches TV. Brother Bridges is not only a good quilter but is also an accomplished Master Mason holding Sub 1, Sub 2 and Sub 3 Proficiency Certificates.

WB Claude Miller, PM, Secretary of Jefferson Lodge #553 (Michi-gan), past member of the Board of General Purpose of the Grand Lodge of Michigan, presented a 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri to Brother Clarence D. Honkanen, Corinthian Lodge #265, at the Jefferson Lodge Honors Dinner on October 16, 2011. Mrs. Honkanen observed the presentation.

On November 15, 2011, two members of Hermitage Masonic Lodge #288 were awarded their 50-year pins for continuous mem-bership in the Lodge. Past Deputy District Grand Master David Turner is shown presenting the 50-year pins to Marvin Bargman (left) and Leonard Gardner . The receipt of the 50-year member-ship pin is one of the grand awards all Masons strive to receive as it represents the lifelong dedication of the members to the Lodge and the Brothers of the Fraternity.

In January 2012, Sampson Lodge #298 in Theodosia purchased winter hats and gloves for distribution to each student of the Thornfield School (grades K thru 8), which currently occupies the former Thornfield High School building. Pictured: Lodge Secretary Wes Frazer, left, and Worshipful Master Len Modlinski deliver the cold weather clothing to the school.

On September 22, 2010, Ada Lodge #444 in Orrick, Missouri awarded Worshipful Brother F.E. Curry his 50-year jewel and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Pictured are WB Curry and his wife Muriel.

Tony Battaglia, PDDGL, presented Louis Ray Merrell his 60-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri at Hamilton Lodge #224 on October 4, 2011. Pictured are Mrs. Merrell, Brother Louis Merrell and RWB Battaglia.

On Saturday, November 19, 2011, Brother Archie Heady received his 50-year pin and certificate in appreciation for his years of service from the officers and members of Algabil-Freedom Lodge #636. Worshipful Master Mike Singer, Jr., presented the award in Brother Heady’s home.

On November 3, 2011, at an open meeting of Harold O. Grauel Lodge #672 in Cape Girardeau, RWB E. Otha Wingo, PDDGL 38, FMLR, present-ed Brother Buddy E. Parrish with his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Pictured (left to right): RWB Wingo, Brother Parrish and his wife Marsha.

On November 26, 2011, at WB Frank Stonner’s residence, 29 friends, family and Brethren gathered to honor WB Stonner with the presenta-tion of his 50-year certificate and pin from Ada Lodge #444 in Orrick. In the photo left to right: WB Rupert Stonner (Frank’s son), WB Frank Ston-ner and Jean Stonner (Frank’s wife).

the MISSOuRI FReeMASON Spring 2012 55

On Tuesday, July 19, prior to the opening of Vandalia Lodge #491, Worshipful Master Ray Oden and Lodge Secretary Rennie Davis pre-sented Archie Hurshman his 50-year pin and certificate at his home in Vandalia. Brother Hurshman is shown being pinned by his wife Phyliss. Brother Hurshman’s 50-year anniversary was on March 16, 2011.

our Masonic Trestle-board...Dr. e. otha Wingo, PDDGl 38, FMlr

[email protected]

POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary,6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.

“Trestle-Board” is a term often used as the title of a newsletter sent to Lodge members to inform them of Masonic events or items of busi-ness for meetings. Some now send such notices by email or the social sites. Phone calls to officers, ritual workers, and members are very ef-fective for promoting well-present-ed degrees and business matters and are even easier with smart phones. But, Brethren, the word trestle-board has an even more important historical signification.

In Pompeii, Italy, in AD 79, in the middle of a rectangular room on a stone table there was a mo-saic trestle-board, showing a large square above a skull with a plumb line from the angle of the square to the middle point of the crown of the head. From each arm of the square there is a suspended robe, one of scarlet and the other purple. Below the chin is a beautifully col-ored butterfly or moth, under which is a circle. In the same room were a vase, a setting maul, trowel, spade, a small staff, and a small chest.

Over the door of the house was an inscription meaning “Diogenes the Mason.” This room, along with the entire town of Pompeii, was covered with tons of pumice and volcanic ash from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, thus was not impacted as it would have been with molten lava. This room was uncov-ered by archeologist Guiuseppe Fio-relli in 1874 toward the end of his eleven years of excavation of the site. [www.philbrick2255.org.uk/

pdf/tracingboardpompeii.pdf]. The reference clearly is to operative ma-sonry. This find was first brought to the attention of the Fraternity by Joseph Fort Newton in The Builder Magazine 1:1 (January 1915). This mosaic trestle-board is on display in the National Museum at Naples.

After the historic Baltimore Con-vention of 1843, in which delegates from 17 out of 23 Grand Lodges during nine days of deliberations attempted to agree upon a uni-form “mode of work” for the use of Lodges in conferring degrees, three delegates were appointed to publish the recommendations of the Convention as its official report: Dr. John Dove, Grand Secretary from Virginia and President of the Convention; Stephen W. B. Carn-egy, Past Grand Master and Past Grand Lecturer from Missouri; and Charles W. Moore, Grand Master from Massachusetts and editor of Freemason’s Monthly Magazine. Dr. Dove withdrew from the pro-

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Documents

Missouri Freemason Magazine - 2012 Spring