Please CLICK HERE for a full PDF copy of the Trestle Board.

A Message From The East

As many of the Past Masters are aware, the year prior to being installed as master is busy with planning and preparations.  Before being installed as Worshipful Master, we are aware of the infamous ‘Warden’s Certificate’ that must be earned.  At one point in the last year, I recall speaking to one of our Past Masters regarding ideas for the 2015 Masonic Year.  I was somewhat taken back by the response, “What would be great for the 2015 year is for you to get busy earning your Warden’s Certificate.”  This incident, though frustrating at the time, has served as a stark reminder in my mind of the obligations we take upon ourselves as Masons.  In this case, we promise in the most friendly manner to remind brethren of their errors and to aid in their reformation.  Though it was not the easy or pleasant thing to do, this Past Master was acting as a far better mason than someone who might simply smile and nod their heads to avoid discomfort.  You know a man is true to his virtues when he is willing to take a harder path in order to be true to his convictions.

As masons, part of our craft is pleasant and part is work.  Work is pivotal to what we are taught and how we practice our craft.  Some of us work by participating in weekly practice sessions.  Others volunteer at work days.  Some are simply faithful attendees who regularly support the craft with their presence during Stated and Called Communications.  I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that it is the labor of the brethren, this year and in all the years past, who are to thank for everything good we have to claim in our historic lodge.

All that said, this month we taken a moment to celebrate and enjoy camaraderie between brethren.  I encourage the brethren… all brethren… to attend our Table Lodge on Sept 19th at 11am. If you have been away for a while, this would be a good experience to simply enjoy the company of others and celebrate the identity of the lodge we all call home.  For those who have labored to prepare for this event, I thank you all for your contributions.  For those who have not been in lodge for quite some time, please let me know if you would like to attend and I would be happy to comp your meal.  The objective of the event is solely the fellowship of the brethren.  All attendees will also get a commemorative lapel pin that I hope you will all wear with great pride.

Other Announcements

Stated Communication: The August Stated Communication will be held on Monday, September 14th at 7:30 pm.  Dinner will be served at 6:30pm.  Meal cost is $10 per plate.  Please come and support our OES ladies by purchasing a plate.

260 Year Anniversary Table Lodge: September 19th at 11am, we will hold our 260 year anniversary Table Lodge.  Dress will be business casual (jeans and polo shirt are acceptable).  Plates are $15.  If you have any questions, contact Wor. Joseph Pack.

September Pancake Breakfast – Moved Due to Table Lodge: Once again we are moving our Table Lodge to the 4th Saturday of the month.  this time it is due to the Table Lodge.  The Pancake Breakfast will be held on September 26th.

YoungLife Gold Tournament: On September 11, Caroline County YoungLife will be hosting a golf tournament at PGA-Rated Mattaponi Springs Golf Club.  Our Lodge has donated money to sponsor a hole at the event.  Let us know if you would like to play.