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Washington Masonic Center Calendar
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August 3rd, 7:30 pm Council of Cryptic Masons #3
August 5th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Stated Communication
August 8th, 10:00 am The Sunnyside Brunch
"Purge The Lodge" Summer Cleaning Event - Immediately Following the Brunch!
August 10th, 7:30 pm Royal Arch Chapter #18
August 12th, 6:00 pm Washington Lodge #46 Stated Communication
August 15th, 6:30 pm White Shrine of Jerusalem
August 17th, 7:30 pm Commandery
August 20th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Officers Meeting
August 26th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Officers & Building Board Meeting |
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Brethren,
Quite recently, I had the opportunity to climb Mount St. Helens overnight and watch the sunrise from the summit. We set out around 11:30 p.m. and reached the top at about 4:30 in the morning, greeting the sunrise roughly an hour later.
Standing at the edge of the crater, looking out at the mountains in the distance and watching the first rays of sunlight spread across the Pacific Northwest, was nothing short of a divine experience.
The climb itself reminded me of the way we often face challenges in life. When climbing a mountain at night, you cannot see everything around you or know exactly what lies ahead. You can see only what is immediately in front of you. Each obstacle must be dealt with as it presents itself, and sometimes you must adjust your course and find a new route as you continue upward.
The final push to the summit was the most difficult part. The top appeared close, but the distance was deceiving, and the steepness of the climb forced us to move slowly. It required patience, caution, and the determination to keep moving forward.
When we finally reached the summit, the satisfaction was immense. Then, after climbing for hours through the darkness, we were rewarded by the arrival of the light.
Reflecting on the climb, I couldn't help but think of our Masonic journey and the importance we place upon darkness and light. Our lives are filled with seasons of uncertainty, challenge, growth, setback, and achievement. We may not always be able to see the entire path before us, but we can continue to take the next step, make corrections when necessary, and trust that our labor is carrying us toward greater light.
May we remember, especially during the difficult portions of our own journeys, that the summit may be nearer than it appears—and that the light is still ahead.
Jesse McCann
Worshipful Master
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Greetings from the West,
Does it seem to you that this has been a great summer? It feels like “goldilocks” weather. Not too hot, not too cold and most days have been just right. A little bit of moisture and very little smoke.
So far, when it gets too warm it is only for one or two days then we welcome a cool down. I hope you can spend time outside and enjoy what we have been given. Choosing how we spend our time is particular to each of us. People budget their time and money for those things that matter most to them. Of course, our time is limited, and we give what we must to our occupation or other demands that leave us little choice. Then we take what is left and allocate it to family, friends, comfort and entertainment. It is all about making choices.
As Masons we acknowledge the time we dedicate to our spiritual needs, our occupation and for rest and refreshment. In the time you have for other activities please include Washington 46 and your Brothers for a stated meeting or other event. The fellowship will do you good.
Mark your calendar for Saturday September 12th to attend the celebration of the 175 th anniversary of Masonry in Oregon. There is a free open house in Forest Grove Oregon from 10 am to 2 pm.
Later in the day there is a gala, tickets are $75 and include dinner and libations. The gala begins at 4 pm and ends at 9 pm. Go to Grandview for more information. This will be a very fun and informative day.
Please join us for our various summer activities. See you in Lodge.
Harmoniously,
Jim Munson |
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Freemasonry has always been a force for good, peace and charity. It offers comfort to those in sorrow, relief to those in need, and wisdom to those who seek knowledge. We need to remember this and act. Support all those who may need our assistance. Fulfill duties without arrogance. Help others without expecting recognition. Resilient and courageous. Standing firm in hardship. Balance in faith and reason; free from superstition yet believing in higher purpose.
Brotherly love and kindness should define masonic interactions: The Lodge should remain a beacon of harmony, unity and moral guidance. Let’s remember that we are all brothers and should without hesitation love and support each other. Let’s not let a struggling brother slip away, but grab a firm hold of his hand and guide him on his journey.
As we move forward together, let’s check in on one another; Whether through a simple phone call, a quiet conversation after the Lodge, or a shared cup of coffee; we reinforce the bonds that make our fraternity unique. We can continue to create a safe space where every brother has the opportunity to thrive. Both mentally and spiritually. |
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From The Secretary's Desk
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Brethren, I trust all of you are having a wonderful and safe summer. With kids out of school, you are busy entertaining them and doing a lot of family activities. The question comes up: how much time are you devoting to studying and participating in Freemasonry? Washington Lodge has a stated meeting on the second Wednesday of the month at 7PM. Dinner is at 6PM and the camaraderie is contagious. Dress for the summer is casual or wear your barong. This is the perfect time for visiting the lodge. If you have forgotten a few things about the procedures we follow, don’t worry. We are here to assist and make your visit an enjoyable one.
I would like to quote from the May 2026 Short Talk Bulletin entitled PRIVACY IS NOT CONSPIRACY: “Freemasonry teaches integrity, charity and mutual respect. It encourages men to improve themselves, strengthen their communities and practice brotherly goodwill. Those principles appear openly in the lives and conduct of its members.”
So, as you travel about don’t be shy about discussing your involvement in your lodge or the fraternity. Be proud of the group that you represent and be ready to answer questions from men looking for a more meaningful life. I thank the good Lord every day for my 52 years in the Fraternity and I hope and pray for many more.
Continue to have a very enjoyable summer and a special thank you to all those that helped with our recent lodge picnic at Oaks Park. The weather was perfect, the food outstanding and the family fun, just hard to beat. Please take care, stay safe and God Bless!
Fraternally,
Don Stapleton, PGM, Secretary |
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