September 1st, 7:30 pm Council of Cryptic Masons #3

September 3rd, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Stated Communication

September 8th, 7:30 pm Royal Arch Chapter #18

September 13th, 10:00 am Washington Lodge #46 Stated Communication (Gavel drops at 10 am, followed by brunch)

September 15th, 7:30 pm Commandry

September 16th, 10 am Friendship Rose OES

September 17th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge Ritual Practice (TBC)

September 18th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Officers Meeting

September 20th, 6:30 pm White Shrine of Jerusalem

September 24th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Officers Meeting

To have your event added to the calendar, please contact WB Matthew Cox.

Brethren,

The working tools of Masonry are more than symbolic curiosities—they are living reminders of how to shape our lives. Of these, the 24-inch gauge stands out as one of the most practical. It teaches us to divide our time into portions: a part for labor, a part for rest, and a part for service to the Great Architect of the Universe and others.

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, this lesson feels especially urgent. Many of us are pulled in countless directions—careers, family, community, and the steady hum of notifications demanding attention. It’s easy to find ourselves overcommitted, constantly “on,” yet never truly at rest. The 24-inch gauge reminds us that time is not infinite, and how we measure and use it matters deeply.

By deliberately dividing our day, we give ourselves permission to create balance. We dedicate the necessary hours to our vocations, but we also safeguard the hours meant for our families, our friends, and for the quiet renewal of the spirit. When we neglect that balance, our well-being suffers. When we honor it, we discover a steadiness of mind and heart that allows us to be more present—whether at home, at work, or in lodge.

As Masons, we are called to be mindful stewards not only of our material resources, but of our most precious resource: time. May the 24-inch gauge remind us to carve out space for labor, for refreshment, and for the service of the GAOTU and our fellow man—and may that balance bring strength and peace in our busy lives.

Fraternally,
Jesse McCann
Senior Warden

Greetings from the South,

September is a month of great change. It seems to me the daylight shortens significantly from the beginning to the end of the month and the temperature typically drops from hot to mild or sometimes cool. September 22nd is the first day of Autumn.

The garden feels it too, with many offerings making themselves ready to harvest. Tomatoes, onions, garlic and cilantro make a fantastic salsa. I enjoy the plums, pears and apples that ripen this month. I am unsure about the apple trees in my field that the elk will raise their antlers into and shake the fruit to the ground, making it easier for them to eat. I hope they leave me a few.

Last month was good for our Lodge. We had a well-attended stated meeting and a fun visitation to Tigard-Orenomah. The best part was welcoming a new EA Mason into our Lodge. Marvin Rivera is the newest Entered Apprentice to join us. I am hopeful we will be able to welcome other fine men into our Brotherhood this year.

There are few things more important than bringing new men and new energy to Washington 46. The men we made Master Masons last year have been valuable assets and bring so much to our Craft. As you move through your day, please keep an eye out for someone special that would make a good addition to our Lodge and encourage them to visit.

Please join us for our stated meeting on Saturday September 13th, gavel down at 10 am and brunch to follow. This is the last time this year we can wear the barong or other business casual clothing in a stated meeting. Come see what is going on and join in some fellowship.

See you in Lodge.