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Washington Masonic Center Calendar
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April 2nd, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Stated Communication (GM’s OV)
April 4th, 6:30 pm Valiant-Sellwood OES
April 7th, 7:30 pm Council of Cryptic Masons
April 9th, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Stated Communication (GM’s OV)
April 12th, 10:00 am The Sunnyside Brunch
April 14th, 7:30 pm Royal Arch Masons
April 15th, 10:00 am Friendship Rose OES
April 16th, 7:00 pm Washington #46 Ritual Practice
April 17th, 6:30 pm Willamette Lodge #2 Officers Meeting
April 19th, 6:30 pm White Shrine of Jerusalem
April 21st, 7:30 pm Commandry #15
April 23rd, 6:30 pm Washington Lodge #46 Officers Meeting
To have your event added to the calendar, please contact WB Matthew Cox. |
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Brothers,
This past month has been the busiest yet profoundly meaningful, characterized by the continuous learning and deep bonding experiences shared with my fraternity brothers. The frequent gatherings have been a source of strength and camaraderie. I am immensely grateful for each of the brothers who joined me, creating a supportive and enriching environment that has made this period truly memorable.
In our fraternity, we hold dear the principle that our strength lies not in individual achievement but in our collective spirit and mutual support.
Each member brings unique talents and perspectives that, when woven together, create a tapestry of unity and shared purpose. We value the contributions of every brother, recognizing that true fraternity is built on respect, understanding, and genuine care for one another. Our bonds transcend mere membership; they are rooted in a profound commitment to lifting each other up, supporting each other's growth, and nurturing an environment where brotherly love is not just an ideal but a living, breathing reality that guides our actions, decisions, and interactions. As we approach this momentous month of April, we stand on the cusp of a remarkable opportunity to showcase the warmth, hospitality, and brotherhood of our lodge. Our Grand Master, accompanied by distinguished members from various lodges, will soon grace us with their presence. Let us unite in our commitment to create an extraordinary experience that not only honors their visit but also reflects the true spirit of our fraternity. By extending our most genuine welcome, sharing our traditions, and demonstrating the depth of our camaraderie, we aim to leave an indelible impression that will resonate long after they depart. Together, we will ensure that our guests feel the genuine connection, rich heritage, and exceptional fellowship that defines our brotherhood.
Some brethren have proposed conducting our Stated Meetings every second Saturday, aligning with the Sunnyside Brunch. This proposed schedule aims to make our gatherings more inclusive and accessible. This April, please join us to discuss and vote on a dispensation to move the stated meetings during the SUMMER months of July, August, and September of this year. If passed at the meeting, it will be a trial run to see how it goes. We encourage all brothers to participate at this month's Stated Meeting, particularly those who have found evening meetings challenging to attend. Please mark your calendars and spread the word to fellow brothers who might benefit from this schedule change.
Sincerely & fraternally,
Worshipful Master Aaron E.
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Brethren,
As I reflect on our journey together this Masonic year, I’ve found myself thinking more and more about the role that fellowship plays in our Craft. We often speak of Freemasonry as a system of morality veiled in allegory, taught through symbols — but beneath the rituals, the degrees, and the lectures lies something simple and profoundly human: the need for connection.
The ritual teaches us that we meet “on the level,” and that phrase reminds me not just of equality, but of camaraderie. No matter our backgrounds or professions, we come together as Brothers. And while our meetings fulfill the formal obligations of the Lodge, it is in the moments before and after — sharing a meal, catching up on each other’s lives, welcoming visitors — that we build the true bonds that keep this fraternity strong.
I’ve come to believe that socializing isn’t a luxury in Masonry — it’s a necessity. It’s how we build trust. It’s how we mentor one another, often without even realizing it. It’s how new Brothers feel welcome, and how long-time Brothers stay engaged. When we gather outside of Lodge — whether it’s a dinner, a coffee, or a family event — we reinforce the living, breathing spirit of our fraternity.
Freemasonry has always been about more than just ritual; it’s about the relationships we forge through shared values and shared time. In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, our Lodge can be a sanctuary of real human connection. But it doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention — a willingness to show up, to reach out, and to invite others in.
As your Senior Warden, I want to encourage each of you to embrace the social side of Masonry. Attend the dinners. Stay after the meeting a little longer. Bring a friend to a public event. Join us at community functions, volunteer outings, or informal get-togethers outside the Lodge. These moments matter. The Lodge isn’t just a place — it’s a community, and it thrives when we come together in spirit and in friendship.
Fraternally,
Jesse McCann
SW |
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Click on the image above to learn more. |
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Greetings from the South,
I don’t have to look at the calendar to know it is spring. The longer day length is a sure sign, but my favorite indicator is the Trillium blooming at the edges of the woods. April this year plays host to Easter on Sunday, April 20th. Easter indicates rebirth and forgiveness, and those are the blessings we share with the earth.
At our stated meeting on Wednesday, April 9th, we will be honored with an official visit from the Grand Master, Tim Best. The evening will begin with a fantastic dinner featuring chicken cordon blue as our entree. The meeting will have some special moments, and we will learn what is new in Grand Lodge and in Grandview. Please join us. If you need a ride, let me know.
Last month’s educational feature was delivered by Brother Joshua Revert on the topic of A.F & A.M. v. F.& A.M. They spring from the same roots but have noticeable differences when you observe the ritual in each form. Thank you, Brother Revert, for a great presentation. If you have a topic to share with the Lodge, please let me know.
For the next few months, the Worshipful Master has added some visitations and social activities to our calendar. Please join us for some fellowship and Masonic fun. I look forward to being with you along the masonic trail.
See you in Lodge. |
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From The Secretary's Desk
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DO YOU REMEMBER WHERE YOU WERE?
This month’s Trestleboard article starts with the question, do you remember where you were at the time of special events, like that first step on the moon, that first car, the birth of your first child, that wedding ceremony and how many attended and this week, another event that was brought up, JFK and 911. This brings me to the very first degree that you received in Blue Lodge, your Entered Apprentice degree. Where was it held, who conferred your degree and who was your coach. We move forward to your other degrees the FC & MM, but do you remember who that first R was? As you ponder the answers, certain things stick in your mind about your masonic journey, and these special moments for you are never forgotten. It means more now as you journey as new masons or those of us that are seasoned veterans. For those of you that we haven’t seen for a while you need to join us and pass along your memories of the past to those new brothers that are looking to the future. One thing that has never changed is the fellowship that we all enjoy. Its seeing that brother that we were so close to many years ago, maybe in that first degree and now a little older. So, what I am asking is that you pay us a visit once a month to rekindle that conversation. The lodge needs your support.
As we venture into Spring the lodge is busy with planned events and especially the official visit of our Grand Master at our stated meeting. If you can join us for this special meeting it would be super. Please pay special attention to our Trestleboard as there are several changes coming your way. You must come and see our new dishwasher and soon to be kitchen improvements. Have a great Spring and a wonderful Easter celebration with family and friends. Take care and God Bless!!
Fraternally,
Don Stapleton, PGM, Secreatry
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