From the East
Greetings from the East!
Brothers, this summer has been hot and hazy but the path in Masonry is clearly lit by bright tapers.
I am pleased to say we have three new fellow craft brethren! We had a superb degree on July 27th to share more light. Plus we are preparing for another second degree coming in August.
Please plan to attend our next stated and be sure to let us know you are coming. I look forward to seeing you in the lodge.
Fraternally,
Chris Lueck
From the West
Welcome to August!
During this month in 1920, then future President (1921-23) William Harding, was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Marion Lodge #70 in Marion, Ohio. Brother Harding actually received his Entered Apprentice degree in 1901, but due to issues with other brothers in Marion Lodge #70 his advancement was blocked until 1920, 19 years thereafter. The reason is unknown but Masonic historians have hypothesized it was likely due to politics as he was highly involved in local politics and at that the time local politics was very harsh, involving slander, libel and rumors that were blatant lies. Regardless, he got into Masonry late in life, he was 55, and only lived three years thereafter, dying of a heart attack after giving a Presidential speech in late 1923. However, during those 3 short years Brother Harding, while being President, lived and breathed Masonry. In addition to involvement in his Blue Lodge, he was a member of: Marion Chapter No. 62, R.A.M. (Royal Arch) in Marion, Ohio; Marion Commandery No. 36, K.T. (Knights Templar) in Marion, Ohio; Scioto Consistory, A. & A.S.R. (Scottish Rite) in Columbus, Ohio; and Aladdin Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. (Shrine) in Columbus, Ohio. He also received the 33rd degree of the Scottish Rite and was an Honorary Member of Albert Pike Lodge No. 36, A.F. & A.M. in Washington, D.C., Columbia Chapter No. 1, R.A.M. (Royal Arch) in Washington, D.C., and Almas Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. (Shrine) in Washington, D.C.
He was buried with Masonic Honors and, at his request, took the Oath of Office of the President of the United States upon the same Bible that was used by Brother George Washington for the same purpose on April 30, 1789, as Washington wanted to be sworn in on a Masonic Bible and it was the Altar Bible of St. John’s Lodge No. 1 in New York City (Washington was sworn into office in New York City). In various speeches, Brother Harding said, “I like the atmosphere of fraternity” and “I think I know the very soul of Masonry.” Due to his extensive involvement alone in three short years, he was not lying.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Nick Voelker
From the South
Greetings from the South!
Since the establishment of modern Freemasonry in Europe around 1700, the influence of our brotherhood has extended around the world. Millions of pounds, dollars, and now euros have been raised by Masons from all over the world and donated to charities large and small. Today, thousands are proud to call themselves Masons and subscribe to its principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth. Influential men throughout history have been Masons including George Washington, President Harry S. Truman, General Douglas McArthur, and Sir Winston Churchill. The Craft has been with us for many years, let’s keep it going.
Fraternally,
Paul Parker