Washington Lodge No. 46
A.F.A.M.
Volume 2024
Issue #12
Washington Masonic Center Calendar
December 2nd, 7:30 pm Council of Cryptic Masons #3
December 4th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Stated Communication
December 6th, 6:30 pm Valiant-Sellwood OES
December 8th, 2 pm Washington Lodge #46 Christmas Party
December 9th, 7:30 pm Royal Arch Chapter #18
December 11th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Stated Communication
December 14th, 10:00 am The Sunnyside Brunch
December 16th, 7:30 pm Commandery #15
December 17th, 10:00 am Friendship Rose OES
December 19th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Officers Meeting
December 21st, 1:00 pm Washington Lodge #46 Installation of Officers
December 21st, 6:30 pm White Shrine of Jerusalem
December 28th, 6:30 pm Washington #46 Officers and Building Board Meeting (By Invitation Only)
To have your event added to the calendar, please contact WM Matthew Cox.
To have your event added to the calendar, please contact WM Matthew Cox.
Master’s Message
Brethren,
One of the things that brought me to Freemasonry is a simple idea but one that has had a lasting impact on me. Much like how we build strong buildings by using techniques to make them true, square and plumb; we must first hold ourselves to be true, square and plumb. The lessons of the working tools first enshrined within us when we received our degrees should guide us every day after.
To take this analogy further, to me Washington Lodge is not brick and mortar, glass and steel. Instead, it is the men inside it who are the living embodiment of the principles, values and morals of Freemasonry. In my year in the East, I set goals to be mindful of our traditions, keep the Lodge going in the right direction and make an impact in our community.
Consequently, I set an ambitious agenda that kept us busy all year. Despite whatever you had going on in your personal life, you all made the Lodge a priority. I sincerely thank each and every one of you for your hard work and support throughout the year. I am proud to call you my Brothers.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Matthew Cox
Worshipful Master
Washington #46
From The West
I look forward to working with each and every one of you, my dear brothers!
From The South
Brethren,
As we approach the close of a very fruitful year in our Lodge, it is a fitting time to reflect on the enduring bonds of brotherhood that unite us and the symbolic roles we each fulfill in our journey through Masonry.
At the heart of our fraternity is the principle of mutual support—a cornerstone of Masonry that strengthens us both as individuals and as a collective. In our rituals, our gatherings, and our shared endeavors, we find steadfast encouragement and camaraderie, reminding us that no Brother walks alone. This commitment to support mirrors the timeless lessons of our Craft, where the tools of the operative Mason become symbols of moral and spiritual fortitude.
The officers of the Lodge embody this symbolism in profound ways. From the Worshipful Master’s unwavering leadership at the East, guiding our collective work, to the Senior Warden’s steadfast readiness to assume the gavel and the Junior Warden’s care in ensuring harmony and refreshment, each position reflects a unique facet of Masonic service. The Treasurer and Secretary, diligent stewards of our resources and records, demonstrate the value of precision and accountability, while the Chaplain reminds us of the divine light that guides our path. Each officer, from the Stewards to the Tyler, carries responsibilities that echo our shared values, illustrating that every Brother has a role to play in sustaining our Lodge and our Craft.
As we reflect on this year, let us take a moment to thank our Worshipful Master, whose dedication, wisdom, and guidance have inspired us throughout. His leadership has not only ensured the smooth operation of the Lodge but also exemplified the virtues we strive to uphold. The Worshipful Master’s ability to balance tradition with innovation, and governance with compassion, is a beacon for us all.
May we continue to support one another as we move forward, cherishing the fellowship we share and the work we do together. Each Brother’s contributions, no matter the scale, enhance the vibrancy of our Lodge and reinforce the legacy of Masonry for future generations.
Let us express our gratitude for the year’s achievements, honor the leadership that has guided us, and recommit ourselves to the principles of Masonry—brotherly love, relief, and truth.
Yours in Masonry,
Jesse McCann
Junior Warden
Dinner this month will be catered by local favorite Por Que No and will feature a delicious selection of do-it-yourself tacos!
From The Secretary’s Desk
I will start this month’s message with the word CONGRATULATIONS! To all the new officers elected and appointed to serve Washington Lodge for the ensuing masonic year, we thank you. 2025 will be an outstanding year for the lodge and will enforce our overall mission of friendship, morality, and brotherly love. This year has been one of planning for the future, upgrading many parts of the building and building on the experience of our seasoned members to train and enhance the skill of our newly raised master masons. The lodge has 159 members, many are older, and some are out of state but what we are missing are the members that live here locally. I know nighttime driving at this time of year is really a challenge but if you need transportation, please give us a call.
We have many activities planned in December, with our building Christmas party on the 8th at 2 PM, our Stated meeting on the 11th, Dinner at 6:30 & meeting starting at 7:30. Presentations and entertainment by the Dickens Carolers. Brunch on the 14th, starting at 10 AM, and our annual installation of officers on Saturday the 21st at 1:00 PM. You don’t want to miss these many activities so please plan on joining us.
Finally, my brothers, the holiday season is upon us so don’t forget those in need. The lodge supports many charities but the giving tree at Jennings McCall is one of our favorites. Please inform us if you know of a member of the fraternity or the order of Easter Star who might need a helping hand. Programs at Grand Lodge can assist and we are here to help.
Pat & I wish all of you a very joyous Christmas and the very best of health and happiness in 2025. God Bless!
Respectively submitted,
Don Stapleton, PGM, Secretary
District Deputy RWB Blake Presswood November Visit
