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Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia
(202) 686-1811

Grand Master's Message: Music, the Art Beyond the Five Senses

2/1/2019

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Charbel T. Fahed
Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia

​Beyond the Five Senses of Human Nature, there is what some call that Sixth Sense, which is beyond explanation or concrete evidence in real life experience.   A vast horizon of spiritual activities may be laid open to the inquisitive mind and to those who are seeking self-improvement in order to satisfy their thirst for knowledge in the Liberal Arts and Sciences.  Here these seekers may quench their thirst from a well of infinite and voluptuous ecstasy.  Here, perhaps, is the dwelling place, indeed the Ursprung, or origin, of music.   

In Freemasonry, we are familiar with music as one of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.  Pythagoras, our ancient Friend and Brother, is known for the “Music of the Spheres.”  The Masonic philosopher Albert Pike, writing in Morals and Dogma, notes in his mystical way that in “the Kabala [sic], the last Seven Sephiroth constituted ATIK YOMIN, the Ancient of Days; and these . . .  correspond with . . . the Seven notes of the musical octave.”  (Lecture on the “Knight of the Sun” Degree, p. 727, classic edition)

There is a nexus between music and mathematics, and -- as a mathematician -- I know that the human ear responds logarithmically to sound in general. Yet music can resonate better in sublayers of sound and integrate more smoothly with the components that relate these signals to the body. Music motivates the dormant strings of the brain to bring forth energy to the entire system of the universe, as well as to the individual soul.

Perhaps for this reason, music is used in diverse applications in life as a balsamic treatment.  It improves the health the patient and speeds his recovery in the hospital. It brings sleeps to those with insomnia and quiets the nerves from tension. It helps infants into a pleasant sleep and nice dreams. It spreads joy to the listener and relieves the burdened heart. It disseminates happiness and eliminates tension.

Music is one of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences that Masons are encouraged to use in order to develop their faculties and enhance their knowledge in practical life. Accordingly, music is highly encouraged to be played in Lodges and major ceremonial events in order to make them more successful and render their performances more solemn. Would one notice the difference between a march or procession with and then without music? Would one feel that its treble is pounding on one’s heart and hugging one’s spirit? It is perhaps no accident that some of the world’s greatest composers – Haydn, Mozart, Liszt, Sibelius, and Sousa – were attracted to join the fraternity and -- in many cases -- write music for ceremonial Masonic purposes.

Yet even the greatest music in the world – like our Gentle Craft itself – is but a gateway into the Eternal, a sublime intimation of that “house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” (2 Corinthians 5:1)
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Washington, Elizabeth II, and The Gavel

2/1/2019

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​​​From the Archives By Bro. Chris Ruli
(Member: Potomac Lodge No. 5)

(From the Archives 
highlights interesting stories of past D.C. Freemasons and other hidden historical gems found in archives of the Grand Lodge of D.C. - ed)

​In 1957, Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, made their inaugural state visit to the United States. The four-day visit included an address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, meetings with President Eisenhower and Vice-President Nixon in Washington, a visit to the British settlement in Jamestown, Virginia, and a college football game in Maryland (vs. North Carolina). And as the whirlwind tour drew to a close, the Queen accepted an invitation to assist in the laying of a cornerstone for the British embassy’s new extension. That singular event was a remarkable moment in the history of the District, and especially for DC Freemasons, as for a brief moment in time, the Queen of England laid a cornerstone using the same masonic implements first employed by President George Washington.
It all started on October 18, 1957, when Ray Baker Harris, the Grand Master of Masons of D.C., received a phone call from the British Embassy requesting the use of the George Washington Gavel for a cornerstone event scheduled the following afternoon. The Gavel was first used by its namesake in 1793 to lay the cornerstone of the United States Capitol. Washington gifted the implements used during the cornerstone ceremony to the Masters of participating lodges. The gavel, in particular, was given to Valentine Reintzel, who served as Master of Potomac (then working under their Maryland charter as Lodge No. 9). When Reintzel died in 1817, the gavel returned to Potomac and was subsequently passed down to each Master. Over the following years, it has participated in several notable cornerstone ceremonies for important DC buildings, including the Smithsonian Institution, Washington Monument, and the National Cathedral.
​Harris, being a Past Master of Potomac, knew that the Gavel could only be removed from its place of deposit by vote and consent of the Lodge. He contacted their then Master, R. Lawrence Tilley, and requested to convene a special communication for the purpose of voting on the Queen’s request. The Lodge convened one hour later and appointed Tilley, the Senior Warden Evart Warren, and Past Grand Master Renah F. Camalier to the escort committee.
 
The following day, the members of the committee escorted the historic relic to the British embassy. It was placed on display with other ceremonial implements including a silver trowel shipped from England for the purpose of laying the stone. After a brief prayer and remarks from Reverend Angus Dun, the Bishop of Washington, the British Ambassador to the United States, Harold Caccia, inspected the stone and set it into position. The Queen then took possession of the Gavel and proceeded to tap the four corners of the foundation stone to formally set the stone in place. (The Queen took great interest in the Gavel, inspecting it briefly and taking a moment to read the inscription placed on the gold cap, before returning it to its case.) 
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The Queen lays the cornerstone of the British Embassy's addition in 1957.
​While the ceremony lasted a mere twenty minutes, it was a remarkable moment in the history of Freemasonry and the District of Columbia. In 1793, George Washington served as the fledgling nation’s first President after a long struggle against monarchical rule. One hundred and sixty-four years later, a descendant of King George III’s wielded Washington’s masonic implement to perform a cornerstone ceremony of her own and help build an edifice dedicated to the mutual cooperation of both countries, once bitter enemies and now the closest of allies. 
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Thank you letter to the Brethren of Potomac from the Ambassador on behalf of the Queen.
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The Washington DC Hospitality Committee Begins Work

1/31/2019

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by RW Bro. Michael D. Nicholas, Sr., P.M.

​(Deputy Grand Master; Past Master of La Fayette-Dupont Lodge No. 19, and member of Arminius Lodge No. 25 )
We spend many nights out at Masonic meetings, but how might we live Freemasonry and more involve its beautiful principles and lessons in our daily life?  How can we increase the positive impact that our Craft has on the lives of others?
Meet the “Washington DC Masonic Hospitality Committee”, a new Grand Lodge initiative that has the potential to become an interesting and exciting way to combine the vast amount of tourist traffic to Washington DC with our Masonic principles. And we are seeking volunteers!

In a nutshell, the purpose of this Committee is to offer a welcoming service that seeks to match up a DC Mason with an individual or family coming to Washington DC who may be interested in learning more about the Masonic sights in our Nation’s Capital.

The ultimate goal of this endeavor is to develop personal relationships – the bedrock of our Craft – that will enrich both the visitor and our DC Mason guides.


Concept:
  • Our primary focus and expertise will be on Masonic and Masonic-related venues.
Our Grand Lodge will provide an unofficial no-fee “hospitality service” whereby our Grand Lodge offers to help visiting Freemasons see not only the obvious tourist sights, but also sights of Masonic interest, some of which they might not even be aware of. Our Masonic Ambassadors (or Hosts) would know the hours and access protocols for these Masonic sights.
 
  • A local Masonic Host would provide a sense of comfort and extend warm hospitality to Masonic visitors to the Washington Metropolitan Area.
This service is designed to develop fraternal bonds with Freemasons from other Grand and International Jurisdictions through the development of a personal relationship while offering to guide them to some sights in Washington DC.
 
  • An additional benefit would be that our Masonic Host will be able to provide our visitors with information and directions on how to visit our Lodges while in DC.
 

The initial thought is that this type of service would be most appropriate for retired Masons in our jurisdiction who have the time to dedicate to the required education and execution of this concept, but the Committee will welcome assistance and ideas from all interested Masons.  Let me give you a brief example of what this might look like, using an experience I’ve had in the area:

There is a small house located near Culpeper, VA called “The Graffiti House”.  It is a very interesting Civil War-era home that contains rooms full of graffiti left by soldiers of both the Union and Confederate armies from 1861 to 1865.
 
I’ve visited this private historic site three times.  On each occasion, I had a different volunteer tour guide who had their own script and stories. Initially, I thought this was the result of poor organization, but later came to realize that each time I learned something unique about the rooms from an enthusiastic and passionate guide. The Graffiti House tour guides do their own research and they develop their own areas of expertise and interest.

 
This is the model that I hope our Washington DC Masonic Hospitality Committee can follow.  Each Masonic Host will have a general set of guidelines as set forth by the Committee, but he will be free to develop his own program based upon his interests.
 
Our Washington DC Masonic Hospitality Committee is chaired by WB George Perez, and it includes approximately six additional brethren.  If you are interested in joining the Committee as a Hospitality Guide, please contact WB Perez, the Office of the Grand Secretary, or look for the link here on our website. (coming soon!).
 
Our goal is to have this Fraternal service in place by the Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival, to address the flood of visitors who come to DC.  So, if you have the time and interest, this is a great way to improve your knowledge of our city, meet wonderful people, and help spread the cement of brotherly love!
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On Silence: A Masonic Proficiency Paper

1/7/2019

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By Bro. Wadih Bassous
(Member and first Master Mason Raised in Cadmus Lodge No. 1002)

The following paper was presented to the Officers and Members of Cadmus Lodge No. 1002 as part of Bro. Bassous's proficiency requirements to obtain the Degrees in that Lodge.
Silence is a very broad subject. It has been praised in many cultures and religions. It has also been subjected to criticism and even disdain. I shall look at both aspects. I will not dwell on the definition, history and etymology of silence, or cite the numerous quotes on the subject, for I believe that this is the best way to keep the thoughts presented to this Lodge strictly personal rather than resembling an academic exercise. I shall only quote one representative proverb from our culture. Among our Lebanese proverbs, we can find one that translates as follows: “If words are made of silver, silence is made of gold.”
 
Silence has often been considered a sign of respect. Worshipers often pray in silence, a class stands in silence before the teacher, so do soldiers before their commander. In addition, many of us are inspired by silence to promote inner peace and introspection. So clearly, silence is, knowingly or unconsciously, imposed or chosen, an essential component of everyone's life.
 
Yet, we must look at the other side of the coin before unconditionally praising the virtue of silence. In some cases, it has been taken to its uttermost: some monks take the vow of [absolute] silence and believe that it is the way to be in perfect communion with their Creator. Nonetheless, one may legitimately wonder whether this is the optimal way of self-enrichment. Shouldn't silence be a learning transition after which you share and exchange what you would have learned, thereby letting others benefit from your acquired knowledge and allow you, in return to hear what others may have learned through their own silence? In other words, should silence be elevated to a point where it hinders all that interactivity can bestow both individually and socially?
 
Silence has also been condemned throughout history as a sign of weakness, complacency, and even complicity in the face of injustice, oppression, and persecution. Condemnations of silence throughout history and modern times abound, whether they involve genocides or smaller mischief, such as bullying. “Stand up, speak up,” is a summons by our peers or our own conscience to abandon the neutrality of silence and take charge of our destiny or some cause towards which we have a moral/ethical obligation. I would say it is hard not to agree with those who decry silence from this perspective.
 
Clearly then, silence is not to be judged as Good or Evil--as it is neither. So, how much should we speak (up) and how much should we adhere to silence? I do not believe there is an easy answer to this dilemma.
 
Many vantage points may be valid positions on the issue. Should we attempt to adopt an agreeable perspective, we shall say that silence should be elevated to the rank of a humanistic discipline and a way of life. One should adhere to it as a free and educated choice, in light of its implications for oneself and for others. That said, silence (at least temporary silence), is undoubtedly associated with wisdom across a great deal of popular beliefs and teachings. A wise man listens and learns, then speaks when he is ready for his words. I think there can be a solid consensus in most cultures of this world around this basic principle.
 
Thus, it would be safe to speculate that Freemasons have been inspired by the above and have thus endorsed silence as an invaluable tool to gain wisdom before spreading the word among their Brethren and, whenever deemed appropriate, beyond the Brotherhood. 
 
After all, the quest for Truth, a cornerstone of Masonry, is an everlasting, infinite voyage that can only be traveled through learning and learning and learning again. What better way to learn than to listen, absorb, analyze, meditate, self-reflect, or to put oneself on the path of self-fulfillment in every aspect of our lives, not the least of which is that of the Entered Apprentice Mason? Moreover, how can this be achieved without silence? The journey to the Truth without silence would be a road of distraction, vanity and ultimately perdition.
 
The process of learning that I chose of my own free will and accord is also the learning of silence itself. Standing in silence requires the development of self-control capacities, the ability to dismiss the temptation to speak. From this perspective, for Freemasons, the exercise of silence is not only a way to listen and learn but also an extraordinary training method to uphold two fundamental masonic duties: to a) keep the secrets of the Art, and; b) keep from engaging profanes in their hostile and defamatory utterances, i.e. the preservation of esoteric wisdom from the abuses of the profane.  Hence, for Masons, silence becomes a vital tool of self-preservation and endurance.
 
To say that silence is a foundation of our Craft is no exaggeration. It is a passport to continue our reconstructive march and a means to contain our vanity so that we remember how much we need to learn no matter how much we think we know. It is of essence to any Freemason, profoundly impregnated with the genuine spirit of the Craft, and aides in the practice of humility at all times before the complexities of the Universe and its Great Architect.
 
I know my knowledge of the Art is extremely shallow. Hence, now that I have spoken before you about silence, I stand ready to take along your side a few steps on our mutual long journey towards Light, with the eyes and spirit of a newborn, with humbleness and, … in silence.
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Peter and the Rabbit: The Magic of Freemasonry

11/28/2018

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By W. Bro. Neil Hare
(Past Master of Temple-Noyes-Cathedral Lodge No. 32)

Neil is also President and CEO of Global Vision Communications, a PR and Marketing firm in DC. He's the author of two novels, both available on Amazon here:

https://www.amazon.com/Neil-Hare/e/B001K93Q92/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1 


​​As we’re heading into the holiday season, it’s the time of year to think about family, friends, and giving back to our community and our country. As Masons, it is also a good time to think about the tenants of our fraternity and what makes this institution of ours enduring and so special. I was reminded of a story that occurred a few years back that reveals the magic of Freemasonry.

One Sunday evening in September, I ran into Brother Peter Brusoe on the platform of the Gallery Place Metro. My wife and I had just taken our three kids to the Marvel Live show at (the then) Verizon Center and we were waiting for the Red Line train. At the time, Sophie 10, Elizabeth 8, and Jack 6 were still reliving the excitement of Spider Man, Captain America, the Hulk and the rest of the good guys defeating Loki, Red Skull, the Green Goblin and the bad guys in a battle to save the Earth. The sugar from the cotton candy and lemonade had them bouncing all over the platform and made the retelling of the story even better!

It was good to see Peter. We chatted about several things on the platform and on the short metro ride. He had attended the Grand Lodge picnic that day and he filled me in on that. We talked about trying to spend as much time with Masonry as we could, the Governor McDonnell conviction, e-books, and politics. When we got to Dupont Circle my family and I got out to grab dinner before heading home and Peter kept going to his stop.
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(Now) Worshipful Brother Brusoe, Master of The Eagle Lodge No. 1893, never does Masonry half-way. Here he poses while manning the grill on the 4th in the Palisades.
​After our quick dinner we went to load into the car and it was then I noticed that Jack had the Spider Man hat and intergalactic, glowing sword we bought him, but not his stuffed Bunny – and I instantly felt a punch in my gut. My wife Kate bought the Bunny right before Jack was born. He looks like a farmer with a blue hat and overalls. At 6 years old Jack still carried him everywhere he went. Bunny calmed him down in stressful situations. Jack has issues controlling his emotions at times – a trait he got from his mother! – and Bunny has always been the one thing to keep his passions in check.

I drove quickly back to the restaurant, but Bunny wasn’t there. We figured at that point Bunny was still on the Red Line train to Shady Grove and he’d sadly end up in a dumpster never to be seen again. We got home and the girls went to bed. I poured myself four fingers of Jack Daniels and sat down to blankly stare at the Denver-Indianapolis game. Upstairs, I could hear Jack sobbing and Kate trying to console him, telling him there was a chance we could get Bunny back from the Metro.

​The truth was that I’m sure Jack would have gotten over it quite quickly as children do. He probably would’ve found another stuffed animal to carry around, and anyway, he had to learn to deal with his anxious moments without Bunny.
In reality, it was my wife and I who were most upset and would need some time to recover. Bunny is emblematic of the young childhood years that go by in a blink of any eye. We didn’t say it, but we liked that Jack still carried around Bunny as we wanted to cherish those moments as long as we could – and still do. And further, we wanted to keep Bunny forever so many years from now we could look at him and have the fond memories of this time in our lives. Sitting in my living room that night, I was trying to come to grips with what felt like and end of an era and a loss for the future. I’m sure my wife felt the same way.

It was then out of force of habit, I grabbed my phone to check emails, and there was an email from Peter: “Neil – Did one of your children leave a stuffed rabbit on the metro? – Peter” My heart leapt and I replied quickly that Jack had done so. We arranged to meet and I drove by Peter’s apartment to get him. We live nearby so it didn’t take long. When I got home, there was Jack waiting by the back door with an excited grin on his face. I gave him Bunny and then he gave me a giant hug. It was a great moment I will always cherish and all thanks to my Brother Mason, Peter Brusoe.

Now, there are many ways to look at what happened. Running into Peter that night could’ve been a coincidence, or maybe I would’ve met another friend who isn’t a Mason who might have done the same thing, or maybe a good Samaritan would have made sure Bunny made it to Metro’s Lost and Found and we would have recovered him. But, I’d like to think not. I like to think it was one of those moments that makes Masonry such a wonderful thing. Peter did what Masons do – look out for a Brother and his family, simply do the right thing, and try to make a difference. It was the latest chapter on my Masonic journey that has included events just like this.

The first one involved my introduction to Masonry, a story most of my Brethren at TNC know well. My uncle Louis Hare, a past Grand Master of the state of Israel and Mason in South Africa first talked to me about it over a decade ago. He had a sense it would capture my imagination and I’d enjoy the fraternity. After learning about it from him, the first person I thought to mention it to was my oldest friend in the world Matt “Doc” Clarkson. As it turned out Doc was a Mason following in the footsteps of his father Harry Clarkson, both members of TNC. I went to a TNC social, the Masters Roast of all events. I really didn’t understand what was happening but I knew I wanted in and the rest was history! It could’ve been another simple coincidence that my best friend was a Mason, but I’d like to think it was something more than that.

The second such event occurred five years ago. My wife was undergoing a procedure for breast cancer at Sibley Hospital. I was in the waiting room anxiously awaiting the outcome, where among other things we would learn if the cancer had spread. The surgery was running a bit long and I was getting nervous. Now, Sibley has always been a place of great memories for me as all three of my children were born there. One of the nicest moments of those experiences was when Bob Sloan, the President of Sibley at the time, and a Brother at TNC, would poke his head in my wife’s room to make sure everything was ok. Bob has since retired from Sibley. It was a nice touch to have the head of the hospital check up on us and reassure us he would help make the experience a positive one. Knowing Bob, he probably checked on as many patients as possible whether they were part of the Masons or not – but it always felt special to us.

So, as I was wearing a path in the carpet pacing back and forth and getting more nervous as time went on, I looked up and who should be walking towards me but Bob Sloan! Bob still advises the Board at Sibley and is actually writing a book about its history so he was there for a meeting. He didn’t know my wife and I were going to be there that day. I told him the situation and he put his hand on my back and whispered a little good counsel in my ear. He shared a similar personal story and told me he was sure everything would work out ok. We shook hands and said goodbye. Shortly thereafter the doctor came out and said the surgery went fine, the cancer was contained, and the outlook was extremely positive. After five years, my wife is cancer free. Again, that could’ve been a simple coincidence but, again, I’d like to think it was something much more than that.

When I left the East in 2010, I said in my parting remarks that Freemasonry answers this fundamental question, “Am I going through this life alone?” The answer is a resounding no and these stories show that vividly. I hope every Brother has similar experiences to mine or will one day. Maybe similar “coincidences” or maybe just times when a fellow Brother stepped up to help, give good counsel, or maybe just give a friendly handshake and slap on the back with a smile on his face. I also hope these stories help remind us why we are Masons in the first place, or when we’re wondering whether to take on more roles at our Lodges or the Grand Lodge they reminded us that the effort will pay dividends we can’t imagine or explain. And, maybe they will help us explain Masonry to non-members who may want to join our Fraternity. So if you ever need help explaining the magic of Masonry, I hope you remember the story of Peter and the Rabbit!
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Happy holidays to you and your families! 
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Jack, holding Bunny and happy again thanks to Bro. Brusoe.
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Meeting the Challenge of Gratitude: A Thanksgiving Message from the Grand Master

11/21/2018

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​In what is certainly an annual ritual of sorts, many of us will gather this week with relatives and friends in houses near and far to celebrate Thanksgiving. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote in his essay, Domestic Life, that “Happy will that house be in which relations are formed from character.” Character of course is the key to success in our familial relationships, whether that family is biological or chosen. Just as the family circle depends on character and the good relationships that come from it, so also does that “house” which is our Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. With our diversity and the strength of our traditions, talents and tenacity we have so much to be grateful for as men of character who are also DC Freemasons.         
 
Gratitude, however brings with it its own special challenge – the challenge to use properly the gifts and advantages for which we are thankful.  It’s been said that to whom much is given, much is expected.
Our standard of living may be quite high, but what about our standard of gratitude? We may be prosperous and enjoy physical strength; but are we also spiritually strong? Are we in complete possession of our soul? What are we doing for our fellow man who may not be so fortunate?
 
Every Wednesday morning before Thanksgiving, my student club goes out and provides breakfast, some hot food and a beverage, to the many hardworking day laborers (or jornaleros) who can be found outside in cold weather across the DMV. “Paying it forward” and providing relief are important lessons I seek to teach my students while they do something for others in the true spirit of Thanksgiving.
 
Brethren, if we truly care about the welfare of our fellow man, we must be willing, personally and collectively, to get involved and take action. To do nothing is to simply act as bystanders of the human condition and spectators to the progress of civilization. It’s simply about caring enough to do something, and Masons have promised to care. President Ronald Reagan once said it very well: “Thanksgiving has become a day when Americans extend a helping hand to the less fortunate. Long before there was a government welfare program, this spirit of voluntary giving was ingrained in the American character. Americans have always understood that, truly, one must give in order to receive.”
 
As your Grand Master, I urge you, the Masons of DC, to meet the challenge of gratitude.  I thank you for your character and the dedicated work you do every day to make our Masonic “house” a happy home. You and yours have my sincere best wishes this Thanksgiving as well as the rest of the holiday season
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Grand Lodge Rededicates Cornerstone of the University Club for 100-Year Anniversary

11/20/2018

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By Bro. Chris Ruli
(Member: Potomac Lodge No. 5)
​​On November 14, 2018, the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia met at the University of Club of Washington D.C. for the purpose of honoring President and Freemason William Howard Taft. The event kicked off with a cornerstone reenactment ceremony and dedication of a new plaque above the building’s existing cornerstone. The Grand Lodge had previously assisted the “U Club” over one hundred and six years ago to Masonically lay the cornerstone of their second building, located on 15th and I Street. The first ceremony was conducted under the auspices of Past Grand Master, Myron M. Parker, who served as the President of the Club’s building association in 1912. He was elected President of the Club the following year and served in the position for a record eight years; 1913 to 1921. Also in attendance was President and Freemason Howard Taft, who founded the University Club and served as their first President.

​On November 14, 2018, the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia met at the University of Club of Washington D.C. for the purpose of honoring President and Freemason William Howard Taft. The event kicked off with a cornerstone reenactment ceremony and dedication of a new plaque above the building’s existing cornerstone. The Grand Lodge had previously assisted the “U Club” over one hundred and six years ago to Masonically lay the cornerstone of their second building, located on 15th and I Street.
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Newspaper clipping form the original event.
The first ceremony was conducted under the auspices of Past Grand Master, Myron M. Parker, who served as the President of the Club’s building association in 1912. He was elected President of the Club the following year and served in the position for a record eight years; 1913 to 1921. Also in attendance was President and Freemason Howard Taft, who founded the University Club and served as their first President.
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William Howard Taft. 27th President of the United States and Freemason.
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Myron M. Parker, Grand Master of DC (1884)
The original cornerstone laying event began at 4:00 pm on April 10, 1912. Over 300 Masons assembled at the Masonic Temple on 12th Street and, with the United States Marine Band and mounted police at the head, began their procession to the site. A platform was erected above the foundation and held several distinguished guests including Franklin MacVeagh, Secretary of Treasury; Charles Walcott, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institute; Herbert Putnam, Librarian of Congress; Cuno Rudolph, John Johnston, and Lt. Col. William Judson, Commissioners of Washington; and the aforementioned Freemasons. In his speech to the crowd of Masons and several hundred members of the club, President Taft extolled the virtues of both organizations. Both groups, Taft said, “combine not the wealthiest of the community, [but] men of high ideals, of good education, of patriotic purpose, and of sane views.”
​The cornerstone event on November 14th began at high twelve to honor and observe the moment when the President of the United States is traditionally sworn into office. MWB Richard Bautista and the Grand Lodge officers conducted the simple cornerstone reenactment amongst a packed crowd of club members, Freemasons, and guests. Several interesting implements were used during the ceremony including the chalices first wielded by Past Grand Master Benjamin B. French when he laid the cornerstone of the Washington Memorial, as well as a replica George Washington Gavel made from the wood beams taken during the Truman White House renovations and George Washington’s home on Mt Vernon. The silver trowel President Taft used to lay the mortar of the first Club cornerstone was also on display. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Grand Master and the President of the University, Thomas Caruso, unveiled a new commemorative plaque, honoring President Taft and the contributions of both organizations. The participants retired to the Club’s library for lunch and refreshment.
 
While the University Club of Washington and the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia may not share a common ancestry, both organizations strive to cultivate an enlightened and engaged membership. Many notable and distinguished individuals, from all walks of life, have sought membership in both organizations as a way of leaving an indelible mark on our nation’s capital. 
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The University Club, today.
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Grand Lodge Planning

10/25/2018

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by RW Bro. Daniel Huertas, P.M. &
​(Senior Grand Deacon; Past Master of Albert Pike Lodge No. 33; member of William R. Singleton-Hope-Lebanon Lodge No. 7)


RW Bro. Annas Kamara, P.M. &
​(Junior Grand Deacon; Past Master of Petworth Lodge No. 47 and Jerusalem Lodge No. 3000; member of L'Haïtienne Lodge No. 925, Maynilad Lodge No. 1521, and Potomac Lodge No. 5)



RW Bro. Morgan Corr, P.M. &
​(Senior Grand Steward; Master of Eireann Lodge No. 98; Past Master of Federal Lodge No. 1 and The Colonial Lodge No. 1821)


​RW Bro. Adam Tager, P.M.
​(Junior Grand Steward; Master of The Eagle Lodge No. 1893; Past Master of William R. Singleton-Hope-Lebanon Lodge No. 7; and member of Samuel Gompers-Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 45)
​When you look out into the future of our Jurisdiction, what do you see? There’s no doubt that our Brethren thought into the future when they first met in London in 1717, and there’s no doubt that our Craft today is a result of both their foresight, and the work of many brothers since them. There’s also no doubt that our actions today will have impacts five, ten, and even one hundred years down the road.
 
The Junior Officers of this Grand Lodge have been thinking about the future a lot lately. While no elected Grand Lodge officer is guaranteed to progress through the line and become Grand Master, the typical eight-year progression system of the Grand Lodge offers us ample time to get to know one another and plan for the future. 
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This type of organized planning is not a new or novel idea, but it is an important one that is being reinvigorated. As a group, we agree that a successful organization cannot function effectively by changing direction each year. However, we also agree that our system of governance and our one-year terms works for our Grand Jurisdiction. So, given those competing factors, we agree that the best path forward is to work together as a group. Individually, we should start projects that we won’t have the opportunity to finish, and we should finish projects that we didn’t start, because large projects take time. Provided that our actions align with the same overarching principles and have the buy-in of the group, each of us can make our mark while maintaining consistent leadership for the jurisdiction, leading to increasing returns.
By using this methodology, we can participate in a greater amount of civic and community engagement, developing organizational relationships over years as opposed to months, and managing them more consistently when our leadership changes. We can make greater charitable contributions without further impact to our dues or current finances by spreading them out over multiple years. We can maintain traditional events while trying new twists to build and improve them. And we can set lofty goals, using incremental steps to benchmark our progress over a longer period of time.
 
There is a lot of work to do, but we can do it. This Jurisdiction already “punches above its weight” on the world stage, and the leaders in our jurisdiction are also often leaders in Freemasonry at large. That said, we cannot and should not rest on our laurels.
​Which brings us back to the original question; what does our jurisdiction and Grand Lodge look like in the future, in 2030? We have already begun discussing topics such as civility and character, ritual and education proficiency, civic and community engagement, and continuity planning. We think that the Grand Lodge of 2030 has a new building and a suite of templates and materials for Lodges. We think that the Grand Lodge of 2030 has a robust education program not just through schools of instruction, but through support to constituent Lodges as well. We think the Grand Lodge of 2030 has a few top-level goals that unify the jurisdiction, while constituent Lodges have the freedom to adopt those goals to the needs and interest of their memberships.
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What does the Grand Lodge look like in 2030?
​What do you think the Grand Lodge of 2030 looks like? These things cannot only be top-down; every brother should buy into our collective goals and take ownership. After all, the Grand Lodge is here to serve as a resource and reflection for constituent Lodges, so it is important for all Brothers to see themselves in the future. If you have an idea of something you want to see the Grand Lodge, please reach out to us and share your ideas.
 
We are looking forward to continuing to work together as a team in the coming years to advance our Grand Lodge to even greater heights. 
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Grand Master's Message (October 2018)

10/18/2018

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Brethren,
 
The time has come when all good Brothers and Fellows should gather together and give voice to our gratitude and thanksgiving to the Great Architect of the Universe for the multitudinous blessings and mercies which we receive by His hand. Accordingly, I encourage all Brothers - the Officers and Members of each of the Lodges and their families - to join with the Officers of the Grand Lodge and their families this Saturday, October 20th at 11 am in the plaza of the University of the District of Columbia to offer our devotions to Deity at our annual Masonic Day of Thanksgiving and Remembrance.
 
As Freemasons, it is right and proper that we unite at least once per annum to publicly acknowledge the Divine presence and His work and guidance in our daily lives. Gathering to express our faith and allegiance to the Great Architect, we may call Him by different names and we may practice our faith in different ways. And that’s just fine with us. Because the really important thing is that in practicing our respective faiths, we share the common goal of building and improving that Temple within us and assisting our fellow brothers in the building and improvement of theirs. By extension, we truly work together to build a better world.        
 
In a speech he gave in 1911, U.S. President and Brother William Howard Taft said: “Masonry aims at the promotion of morality and higher living by the cultivation of the social side of man, the rousing in him of the instincts of charity and love of his kind. It rests surely on the foundation of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God.”  
 
So there you have it.  All the good that we do as Freemasons, all the contributions we make to society as a moral brotherhood of upstanding, forthright citizens of the world are based upon the beneficent and loving presence of our Heavenly Father. Now that is something truly deserving of our thanks and praise.
 
So Mote It Be.  

Richard J. Bautista, Grand Master
​Click here for more information about the
2018 Masonic Day of Thanksgiving and Remembrance
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Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92 Celebrates Its 25-Year Anniversary in Style

10/18/2018

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By W. Bro. Rafael Caceres
(Master of Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92)
The officers and members of Alianza Fraternal Americana Lodge No. 92 celebrated the Lodge’s 25th Anniversary in the best way possible - with the participation of Brethren from Lodges around the Jurisdiction and the Hispanic community, at a Gala hosted in Almas Shriners Ballroom on May 19.

​The Lodges and members that constitute the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, are well known for their diversity, and AFA is proud to be a part of that reputation. When we were founded in 1992, we became the first Lodge in DC constituted and authorized to work in Spanish, allowing many Spanish speaking masons that temporarily or permanently reside in the District Metro Area to continue their Masonic instruction and work on shaping and smoothing their Rough Ashlars in the comfort of their native tongue.

The Anniversary Gala was a memorable night, with the presence of our Grand Master Richard Bautista, five Past Grand Masters, current Grand Officers, and many others. The excellent speeches from recognized members of the Grand Lodge about Masonry brought everyone’s attention to explaining what a mason is. After which, as Master of Alianza, I presented the Hispanic community with the “The Magna Bowl.” 
Furthermore, the audience enjoyed an excellent dinner and a show of different dances that characterize some of the countries and diverse cultures in South America like Argentina, Bolivia, Peru and Uruguay.  And the night finished with the Brethren demonstrating their dancing skills in the dance floor.

This anniversary is a milestone that motivates Alianza members to continue their ongoing effort to improve the quality of work in our Lodge as a way to keep the interest in Masonry while still participating in the Jurisdiction’s activities to expand our fraternal bonds with other Lodges.

​On behalf of the Lodge, I am grateful to the Great Architect of the Universe for such moment in fraternity and to all the attendees for their participation. Thank you, and here’s to 25 years more!!!
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