|
Washington Masonic Center Calendar
|
| |
|
May 2nd, 12:00 pm Allied Masonic Degrees & Royal Ark Mariners
May 4th, 12:00 pm Willamette River Lodge #3 RAM
May 4th, 7:30 pm Council of Cryptic Masons #3
May 6th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Stated Communication
May 9th, 10:00 am The Sunnyside Brunch
May 11th, 7:30 pm Royal Arch Chapter #18
May 13th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Stated Communication
May 16th, 6:30 pm White Shrine of Jerusalem
May 18th, 7:30 pm Commandry
May 19th, 10:00 am Friendship Rose OES
May 20th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Food Carts & Fellowship
May 27th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Officers Meeting |
| |
Brethren,
As we move into May, I would like to take a moment to reflect on some of the work that has been taking place within our Lodge — both the kind that is immediately visible, and the kind that often goes unseen.
In recent weeks, you may have noticed a subtle but effective change to our Lodge room. The installation of dimmable LED lighting has brought a new sense of clarity and atmosphere to the space in which we meet and conduct our work. It is a small change in one sense, but one that reminds us how even modest improvements can elevate the experience of the Craft.
We also recently held our “Purge the Lodge” day — an effort to clean, organize, and restore order to spaces that had, over time, become cluttered. This was more than a practical exercise. It was, in many ways, a reflection of the work we are taught to undertake as Masons: removing what no longer serves a purpose, so that what remains may be put to better use.
To me, these are the visible signs of progress.
What is less visible, but no less important, is the steady, consistent work of our officers and brethren who continue to give their time and energy to the Lodge. Much of this work happens quietly: planning, coordinating, maintaining, repairing, and improving. It does not always draw attention, but it is essential to the strength and continuity of our Lodge.
Freemasonry teaches us that the most important work is often not what is seen, but what is built over time through patience, discipline, and shared effort. The temple we are called to build is not only within these walls, but within ourselves and our relationships with one another.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our officers for their continued dedication and to all the brethren who have contributed their efforts so far this year. The results speak for themselves, even when the work behind them does not.
As we look ahead, I encourage each of you to take part in whatever way you are able. Whether through service, participation, or simple presence, every contribution adds to the whole.
The work continues...
Fraternally,
Jesse McCann
Worshipful Master
|
| |
|
Greetings from the West,
May is here and it is in the middle of spring. We welcome the blooms of rhododendron, lilac, bleeding heart and so much more. Most of us live where our concern of frost is extremely low this time of year and it is time to plant our garden with the warm weather plants and enjoy asparagus if you have some in your garden.
There are many days to celebrate in May but to me, the top three are Mother’s Day on Sunday May 10 th , Armed Forces Day on Saturday May 16 th and Memorial Day on Monday May 25 th . One of the most celebrated days for families is Mother’s Day. The special bond of mother and child is a cornerstone of our society and having a celebratory day for that relationship is very appropriate. Our economy is boosted by the gifts of flowers, jewelry and of course dining out and enjoyed by mothers throughout the land. Armed Forces Day is when we show our appreciation to all branches of our military and those that serve our country by protecting us. Memorial Day is a national holiday to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. Please fly your flag on May 16 and 25th to show your respect. While you are enjoying this great time of the year be on the lookout for special men who would benefit from being a Mason. Talk to them and encourage them to contact Washington 46 via our website or contact a lodge officer directly. We continually seek special men to join our brotherhood and do our part to make good men better.
In harmony,
Jim Munson
|
| |
|
Freemasonry is not a hobby or a pastime. It is a calling. It is a lifelong apprenticeship in the art of becoming better men, and in helping others do the same. Many of us understand that we carry a social debt. The freedoms, comforts and security we enjoy today were not created in isolation. They were the result of the hard work, courage and sacrifice of those who came before us. Our duty is to honor their legacy by building something equally meaningful for those who will follow.
Freemasonry provides us with a path, but the journey itself must be ours to walk. It is deeply personal, and at the same time, profoundly communal. Each of us must choose to invest in our growth, develop strength of character, and learn to serve others with humility and joy.
The most lasting satisfaction in this Craft comes not from honors, but from the slow deliberate laying of a strong foundation, we build a strong foundation together, one stone at a time, one brother at a time.
What Freemasonry has given me, more than anything else, is space. Space to reflect deeply, space to feel sincerely and space to build bonds of real brotherhood with men who care about something greater than themselves. It has made me a more grounded human being. In a world that so often feels cold and transactional our lodges are warm, full of light, and full of meaning.
We must protect and promote unity within our Lodges. Where division arises, let us respond with compassion and clarity. I believe in leading with love. That means listening before judging, understanding before reacting, and always seeking the good of the lodge above the pride of the individual. Conflicts, when handled poorly, drive good men away. But when handled with wisdom and care, it becomes an opportunity for growth, healing and restoration.
Let us have the courage to intervene when necessary, and the patience to reconcile differences in a way that honors the craft.
Let us build something enduring together, with purpose, with patience, and with pride. |
| |
|
Contribute to the Washington Lodge Trestleboard! |
|
Do you have an article or photos you'd like to submit?
Contact the WM for details on how to contribute! |
|
|
| |
|
From The Secretary's Desk
|
| |
|
One might reminisce how fast this masonic year is going as it is almost half gone. Grand Lodge is right around the corner and Washington Lodge is buzzing with excitement as we plan for the remainder of the year. Our meetings begin at 7PM for the months of June, July, August and September with plans galore to keep our members excited about attending lodge. You ask, what’s up? A security fence around our property is just one of our many projects; the back doors of the building have just been upgraded; a major cleanup job at the building has just finished and to make your coffee, the best around, that is also being done. So, I may ask, please join us for the great fun and fellowship every second Wednesday of the month. The dress will be barongs or business casual.
There are two other special dates in the month of May, and they are Mother’s Day on the 10th and Memorial Day on the 25th. With our Sunnyside Brunch just the day before I know our cook Steve will have something special for the ladies. Memorial Day is a day we can’t over emphasize as it speaks loudly to all those members of the armed forces that gave the ultimate sacrifice fighting for the USA. I want to personally thank all the veterans for their service and to bless those men and women currently protecting our interests throughout the world.
I look forward to seeing you in the months ahead. Please have a super and safe summer, take care and God Bless!
Fraternally,
Don Stapleton, PGM, Secretary |
| |
|
