Rhode Island JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2020

freemason

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island Established 1791 Volume Forty-Six, Issue One

Most Worshipful Brother

Gary S. Kaufman

Our 165th Grand Master for the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

R∴W∴Melvin E. Silverio, Grand Marshal and M∴W∴Gary S. Kaufman, Grand Master

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Brother Gary S. Kaufman Most Worshipful Grand Master

To the Past Grand Masters, Past and Present Grand Lodge Officers, Worshipful Masters, Brethren all.

We have entered uncharted waters. Who would think that in 2020 a Grand Master of this jurisdiction would be installed virtually via Zoom conferencing! The implementation of the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge has challenged our perseverance to keep certain traditions intact while adapting to a new reality. I want to thank all who worked to make this virtual Annual Communication a success, even though we are apart.

M∴W∴Sokoll, thank you for your virtual installation of me, Brother Melvin Silverio as Right Worshipful Grand Marshal, the Grand Council, the District Deputy Grand Masters and Masters of Ceremonies and all the officers in their respective positions for the ensuing year. It was not how any of us expected to be installed, but we have the distinct pleasure of being the first officers of this Grand Jurisdiction to be installed in this manner. History has been made! History will continue to be made this year.

So, what does Freemasonry in Rhode Island look like in our present situation? The new Masonic year will be anything but normal. The pandemic presents a number of obstacles for the Craft. There are many activities we cannot enjoy because we cannot meet in person, like lodge meetings and Grand Lodge communications, breakfasts, table lodges, volunteering, officer and candidate forums, workshops and recruiting new candidates. While it is hard to visualize what the future may hold as we all struggle with COVID-19, with many events cancelled or postponed in the coming months, our Craft is strong, and we are resilient and resourceful. Maybe 10 people can meet together in June or July, maybe up to 50 people can meet in August. If we can meet face to face in July or August, with a 50-person maximum, we should be able to have regular communications in our lodges. I will give dispensation to any lodges desiring to meet in July and August.

Throughout the months of March, April, and May, Lodges have found creative ways to hold meetings by using Zoom. Even though we cannot meet in person, it is important to put a face to the words, as the brethren truly do like to see one another. These Zoom meetings are a good start and have been well received, judging by the attendance. Our lodges are using technology to take care of necessary business to keep their Lodges running. With little written structure, the masters have opened the lodge with the familiar sound of the gavel and conducted business. Some have integrated prayers and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. This form is a

Grand Master’s Message

great first step to continue our association and fraternity but does not provide the structure that we are all used to in our regular communications.

The ritual of the opening and closing a lodge is the foundation of our fraternal meetings. Dressing appropriately and addressing the brethren as we would in lodge should not be lost just because of our virtual communications. Over the past month, I established a committee to work on rewriting our ritual for virtual meetings over Zoom. In the coming days, the Craft will receive formal ritual approved by Grand Lodge to be used for virtual lodge meetings. With the exception of floor work and other things that just cannot be done virtually, there is little difference between the Zoom meeting and our regular meetings in our lodges. In addition, a dress protocol as if we were physically in lodge will be instituted. The Sentinel or assigned brother will make sure that all are appropriately dressed. The masters and officers need to continue to learn and conduct their ritual as before. In addition, new masters have arrived in the East and it is only fair that they have the same opportunity to conduct ritual as all other masters have done. The upgrading of the Zoom meeting to this format with ritual and dress code is especially necessary and important, lest we forget our roots.

To learn and conduct the opening and closing of the lodge in this manner is necessary, as it is possible that COVID-19 may have a second wave in the fall. We need to be ready for that possibility. As such, I have asked the same committee to start formulating our degree work in a virtual format so that we can use it to raise new brother Masons. We cannot simply wait for all this to go away. The degree work may not be what we are used to, but I want to make sure it is as close to our standard ritual as possible. What the candidates miss we can catch them up later. I do not want to wait and lose potential new members to the Craft. In the meantime, we may have a window in late July and August to meet face to face, ‘six feet apart’. We need to take full advantage of this and do the investigation of new candidates, conduct degree work and catch up other candidates in the pipeline. We are preparing for the worst-case scenario and hoping for the best-case scenario.

This jurisdiction has needed proper education classes for several years now. I am specifically relating to Officer Forums and Wardens Workshops which I am renaming “Leadership Training.” We need to take this opportunity to provide this valuable learning for the masters, officers and brethren. As of today,

M∴W∴Hallstrom, III and Brother Stephen Stock, along with M∴W∴Iacobucci and his ‘officers training committee’ are working

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Rhode Island FREEMASON

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Published by the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island 222 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914

Published in March, June, September, and December.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

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________________________________________________________________ Rhode Island Freemason Page 3

On Saturday, March 14, 2020 New England Brotherhood Night was hosted this year by the Grand Lodge of Connecticut and

M∴W∴Melvin Johnson Grand Master. The event was taking place at the Masonicare, Ashlar Village facility in Wallingford. Masons from throughout New England were in attendance for an afternoon of excellent presentations and a wonderful luncheon. Renewed friendships and wonderful dialogue were the order of the day. All attendees were presented with a copy of “Thank You Mr. Edwards” a bicentennial history of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut as a gift, and certainly a welcome addition to everyone’s library.

Because we were at a senior living facility, health precautions were in order because of the newly announced virus. Temperatures were taken prior to admittance and a listing of all attendees was gathered in the event someone was later diagnosed as being positive with the virus. The “lockdown” and “social distancing” orders had not yet been announced throughout the country. The concern for the virus did affect the attendance of the gathering, yet 50+ brothers were present. This proved to be the last major Masonic gathering that we would all experience for some time.

M∴W∴ Mitchell, Past Grand Master of RI was part of our RI

delegation. M∴W∴Stephen was fortunate to also have present M∴W∴Kenneth B. Hawkins, PGM of CT who served the same year

(1993-1994) as Grand Master. M∴W∴Ken was integral in working with Prince Hall Masonry and shepherded the resolution in 1989 to recognize Prince Hall Masonry as a legitimate Grand Lodge and to hold fraternal amity with them and included mutual visitation privileges. Connecticut led the way to Prince Hall Freemasonry’s

mutual recognition across the country. M∴W∴Lewis P. Myrick, Sr. PGM of Prince Hall (1988-1990) who served with these two brothers was also in attendance and made for a wonderful

reunion.

New England Brotherhood Night By: R∴W∴Richard Lynch, Editor

Masonic Scrapbook

Brothers Thomas Burdick and Ralph Boone receive their 50-year Service Medals, presented by R∴W∴Gilbert Fontes, DDGM and W∴Earl Mann, Master.

R∴W∴Rick Baccus DDGM - Northern District presents R∴W∴Robert Ellston

DGM, Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 8 with his 50-Year Veteran’s Medal.

Brethren of the new Jenks Lodge No. 24 after the merger ceremony of St. Andrews Lodge No. 39 on February 24, 2020.

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on ways to implement remote learning programs to keep all our brethren engaged in Freemasonry even when we cannot meet face to face. We will accomplish this endeavor with Zoom conferencing, podcasts, webinars, videos, and other forms of remote learning. Now is the perfect time to teach Freemasonry remotely with a robust training program. I am happy to announce today that the first training session l took place on Saturday, May 23.

To assist in bringing the learning to you, I have enlisted the expertise of R∴W∴Mike Southern and the IT Committee to provide equipment and software necessary to produce a good product that will be user-friendly and enjoyable for the brethren. I have also asked the IT Committee to position Grand Lodge with up-to-date equipment and to enhance our communication capabilities so Grand Lodge is well suited for remote telecommunicating in the future. I have heard some say that the virtual conferences and meetings we have had are a great tool. After this crisis is over, we should be able to have some meetings virtually. When people are busy, a virtual conference would save time and enable greater participation.

Along with the making of Masons as mentioned above, we must keep our eyes on our candidates in the pipeline of every lodge. We currently have:

47 Inquiries (in process of follow up) 48 Candidates (waiting to take their EA degree) 43 Entered Apprentices (waiting to take their FC degree) 22 Fellow Craft (waiting to take their MM degree)

These candidates and brothers also need to be engaged in the Craft during this period of time. We do not want to lose them, we want to invite them to join the virtual meetings in each lodge at the appropriate times through ‘Waiting Rooms’ and encourage them to continue to learn about Freemasonry through our remote educational programs that will be forthcoming.

I hope that I have given you a glimpse into the priorities and opportunities facing our Craft at this moment. If we have a turn of events and COVID-19 is a thing of the past, we can change gears and work on some other programs like the introduction of the Lewis Jewel into our jurisdiction, the creation of the 5-year Grand Lodge Strategic Plan and other such programs to enhance and enrich our jurisdiction.

In summary, we all know that Freemasonry is built on face-to-face contact and a handshake. That is not possible right now and may not be in the near future. This pandemic is far from over, but we can plan for the future and provide Freemasonry activities remotely to continue to connect to one another until we can meet again on the level, face-to-face and with a handshake. I am hoping with Grand Lodge’s lead, the lodges will also think outside the box and design programs to keep our brethren engaged. My goal is to provide the best Freemasonry experience to all brethren and to keep them involved in Freemasonry during this difficult time.

In closing, I want to thank M∴W∴Douglas Connell for appointing me District Deputy Grand Master all those many years ago. I will

not disappoint you. M∴W∴Sokoll, M∴W∴Iacobucci, M∴W∴Pothier, M∴W∴Smith, M∴W∴Hallstom Jr., M∴W∴Ault, M∴W∴Allen,

M∴W∴Hassell and M∴W∴Poyton thank you for your good counsel over the years. Your wealth of knowledge is invaluable for anyone who is seated in the Oriental Chair. I look forward to our continued relationships though my year in the East.

To my son, Josh, a brother at Redwood and Jenks Lodges and present on this virtual installation, and my daughter Rachel who lives in Israel, both of whom did not understand what I was doing

on so many nights out when they were growing up, thank you for your support. You finally learned how much Freemasonry means to me. I love both of you with all my heart.

Lastly, I want to thank my wife Miriam for allowing me to pursue Freemasonry for the last 23 years. You have always supported everything I do, and I love you very much. Good Luck with being First Lady of this Grand Jurisdiction. Anything that you need for the Grand Ladies please do not hesitate to ask.

As this is being recorded and will be posted on Facebook and YouTube, not only will Miriam and Rachel have the opportunity to see this installation, but my parents Robert and Elaine Kaufman who reside in Florida, who I did not want to travel to Rhode Island under these circumstances due to their age, will get to see it also. Love you Mom and Dad!

Thank you to the Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, Grand Council and Grand Lodge officers who will assist me in making the Craft even better in the year to come and thank you to the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction. You are Rhode Island Freemasonry and I thank you for putting your faith in me to guide us through 2020.

Fraternally yours,

Gary S. Kaufman Grand Master

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Good day brethren,

It has been some time since I have written for the RI Freemason, and I thought this may be a good time. As we all struggle with the day to day regulations that have now altered our lives, we must be vigilant in protecting ourselves during these trying times. I have never been one to sit in one place to long and I can assure you I walk around my house and yard like a caged cat waiting to escape. But you must remember that we as Masons are part of an organization that holds ourselves to a higher standard, we have agreed to obey the civil magistrate as it pertains to how we conduct ourselves. Though restrictive, they are for our own good and the good of society in general. Imagine how awful it could be if you lost someone to this virus that you have sat next to for years in lodge and is now gone because he did not take heed.

Perseverance is a trait we must exhibit if we are to get through this together and once again meet as brothers. I am confident that each of you have that ability to stay the course until we get to the end of this problem.

Fortunately for all of us there are several means of communication available to us that our Brothers during the two previous pandemics did not have. Take advantage of this opportunity to talk to one another with Skype, Zoom, or a simple call to a brother that may brighten his or your day. I can tell you that speaking with Brad my Master of Ceremonies, keeps us close and continues a tie that was developed many years ago. Isn’t that a part of Masonry?

This in some crazy way should send a message that if nothing more, we are all the same regardless of our station or position in life. The virus does not pick and choose, hopefully it will bring some people down to earth and realize what is truly important, and maybe just maybe, the world’s people may come to realize that taking the Supreme Being out of your life, regardless of our religion is not a good idea.

May the Supreme Architect of the Universe bless you and your

family throughout these times.

Brethren,

At the time of writing this article, we are in the midst of a global change that could transform how we communicate and associate with our fellow brothers. In just a few short months we have been thrown into a crisis that has changed our whole way of life.

I am sure that you have all heard the ever-repeated phrase that “change is good”. In this case, there may be a silver lining in this cloud. Prior to this pandemic, our world has changed in so many ways from a technological standpoint, that many were not keeping up or taking advantage of the advances. Many of our brothers had not embraced the new ways of communicating through text and social media and as a result were not up to date on some of the activities that we were engaged in. I am sure that many years ago, many Masons did not appreciate the advantages when Alexander Graham Bell introduced the telephone. In like manner they may have continued to write letters and relied on the USPS to get that letter to the recipient in several days. He then had to wait for the response.

As such, we as a craft must consider the possibilities of changing or adapting to this new world. We can still meet, communicate, and

do the good work that we are known for. However, we need to find new and better ways to engage all our lodge brothers in the “secret” work that we do. Many of us still hold that dear to our hearts and believe that it is one of the main things that bind us together. This will be a challenge in the “New Normal” but I am sure that we can be creative with blending the new ways with the old ways to end up in a place that is acceptable to everyone. It will be a new way for us to meet upon the level.

In closing, I take this opportunity to acknowledge our most recent Past Grand Master, Brother Kenneth F. Poyton. Little did he know that his year would be interrupted by the disruption that occurred when we were subjected to so many new rules and edicts from our local and federal governments as a result of the global virus. However, I believe that we all owe him a great deal of gratitude for the way he stepped up and adapted to the changes. As any great Grand Master would have done, he found a way to keep our institution alive and well. He granted dispensation for lodges to hold their regular meetings in modified form. He allowed the abbreviated installation of new officers to lodges that had their annual communications scheduled during this trying time. He found a way for us to meet virtually through our modern technologies. But most of all, he stayed in constant touch with the brothers of our Masonic family to let them know that we are doing well and we must continue the good work that makes us the most respected and honored society that the world has known. In sum, he became the Grand Master that we all needed during a challenging time. So, thank you Grand Master for all that you did for us. I look forward to continuing this work with our new Grand Master Brother Kaufman and seeing our respected fraternity thrive in a time when many others will fail.

May the blessings of heaven rest upon us and all regular Masons

Introduction One of the amazing aspects about our little state is its history not only about our nation, but our Masonic past. With everything going on today in our crazy world, its sometimes difficult to compare our own hardships with those of our ancestors and past brothers. In Kennedy Plaza stands a 40-foot-tall granite monument adorned with dark bronze oxidized tablets and statues of soldiers, sailors and old Columbia.

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Message from the Senior Grand Warden By: R∴W∴Robert A. Palazzo J.G.W.

Rhode Island Freemasonry During the American Civil War – Part 1

By: W∴Paul Fetter, III P.M.

Message from the Junior Grand Warden By: R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant

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(continued from Page 5, RI Freemasonry and the Civil War)

This is the Soldiers & Sailors Monument and on its tablets are etched the 1,727 names of Rhode Islanders who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the Union and free men and women from the bonds of servitude during the American Civil War. Among these names are brothers of the Craft who firmly believe these tenents of Union and freedom and paid for these convictions with the ultimate price they could give.

Freemasonry of the 19th Century In the years prior to the war, Freemasonry in Rhode Island had experienced its own period of trials and tribulations during the anti-Masonic period of the 1820s and 1830s and the Dorr Rebellion of the 1840s. During this time of political and social unrest, many lodges surrendered their civil charters to the Grand Lodge and went underground for a time. By the late 1840s into the 1850s, membership began to increase and saw major growth by the late 1850s. Throughout the war, Rhode Island Masonry would be led

by M∴W∴Ariel Ballou Grand Master from Morning Star Lodge No. 13 of Woonsocket. Around the country, there were an estimated 500,000 Masons. Many would enlist to fight for either the North or South in the upcoming conflict.

Rhode Island the First to Answer On the morning of April 12, 1861, the peaceful skies around Charleston harbor, South Carolina were forever shattered as merciless Confederate artillery assailed the Union held Fort Sumter. While the southern states began to prepare for war with the federal government in Washington, DC, Rhode Island politicians, citizens, and Masons heard the news. Since the Revolution, Rhode Island had transformed from a rural and maritime trading center to one of New England's primary textile and tool manufacturing producers, in cities such as Providence, Woonsocket, and Pawtucket.

President Lincoln’s call for 75,000 volunteers to end the rebellion was answered post haste by Rhode Island. Governor William Sprague IV along with other influential Rhode Islanders began the process of raising troops. He telegraphed a West Point graduate and former army officer about taking command of the Rhode Island troops. This former officer had been stationed at Fort Adams in Newport and was now employed by the Illinois Central Railroad. This man was Ambrose Burnside, and he immediately accepted Governor Sprague’s offer.

Regiments such as the 1st Rhode Island Detached Militia Infantry and the 1st Rhode Island Light Artillery, Company A were composed of men from various town militia units such as the Kentish Guard and the Providence Marine Corps of Artillery that served as the foundation of military order and discipline for future infantry and artillery regiments.

Masonic brothers from around the state enlisted in order to preserve the Union. As Brother Sullivan Ballou of Morning Star Lodge No. 13 of Woonsocket explains in a letter to his wife, Sarah, before leaving Providence for Washington, “our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine O’ God, be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battlefield for my country, I am ready. I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American civilization now leans upon the triumph of the government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution. And I am willing, perfectly willing to lay down all my joys in this life to help maintain this government and to pay that debt.”

Many lodges around the state expedited degrees upon candidates and had annual dues paid for those enlisting. As the case with Brother John H. Sweet of Mount Vernon No. 4 who at the outbreak of war served as Senior Deacon. With brothers flocking to fill the ranks of the Union Army, the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island saw fit to establish a traveling military lodge for brothers to continue to practice the Craft while serving. American Union Lodge was granted a

dispensation and charter with brothers from the 1st Rhode Island Infantry Volunteers forming the membership. On April 18, 1861, soldiers and cannons from Battery A arrived in Washington establishing Camp Sprague, followed by the 1st RI Infantry on April 20, 1861, and the 2nd RI Infantry and another artillery battery in May at the mustering point.

The Battle of Bull Run, Virginia On July 21, 1861, the Union Army departed its encampment outside of Washington to confront the Confederate forces converging at Manassas junction near Bull Run Creek. That morning the Rhode Island brigade under Brigadier General Ambrose Burnside formed the vanguard of the Union attack at Matthew’s Hill, firing some of the first volleys of the war.

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The 1st RI detached militia prepare to move from Providence to Washington.

Brother Sullivan Ballou

Original charter of American Union Lodge organized in April 1861. Rhode Island Grand Lodge Library collection.

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At that instance, Brother Slocum fell mortally wounded from an enemy bullet that struck his head. Brother Slocum, who was one of the few men with military experience prior to the Civil War, his death shocked his men who continued to fight until ammunition became scarce. With reinforcements lead by General Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson, the Confederates were able to turn defeat into victory and rout the Union Army. When news of the defeat reached home, Masonic bodies and citizens alike mourned the losses at Bull Run. At Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 4, the secretary’s minutes read during the August 15 meeting, “our brother, John S. Slocum, was slain at the Battle of Bull Run, in Virginia, while leading the 2nd Regiment of Rhode Island Volunteers in the defense of his country…He has fallen in the noble effort to prevent the destruction of our glorious Union of States. In a token of our respect for his memory, our altar will be draped in mourning for the space of thirty days.”

This was not the only action by Masons to honor the memory of their deceased brothers. A Masonic committee was established and with the support of Governor Sprague, citizens returned to the battlefield to reclaim the bodies of the state’s fallen soldiers and return them home.

In March of 1862, the party lead by Governor Sprague traveled to Virginia and exhumed the remains of Brother Slocum and others from their shallow graves at Bull Run. Brother Ballou’s remains could not be found. Locals informed the Rhode Islanders that in the aftermath of the battle, a group of Confederate soldiers wishing to desecrate the remains of Colonel Slocum in retribution for the

regiment’s gallant performance during the battle, mistook Brother Ballou’s body for Slocum. All that was retrieved of Brother Ballou was some scraps of uniform, charred bones, and ash.

When the party returned to Rhode Island, the remains of Brother Slocum and Ballou were interred at Swan Point Cemetery in Providence on June 22,1862. The Masonic funeral procession was composed of brothers and officers of Mt. Vernon Lodge, Morning Star Lodge, Cavalry Commandery, and the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, under the direction of M∴W∴Ariel Ballou Grand Master.

The first major engagement would have lasting impacts upon the public’s conscience for the rest of the war. Soon those brothers on the home front would be tested, not by bullets and the fatigue of battle, but care for the wounded and financial aid to the widows and families of deceased brothers.

The Bloodiest Day for Rhode Island The reminder of 1861 to 1862 saw our brothers in the service fighting multiple military campaigns from the east to west. Rhode Island units contributed to Union successes at Shiloh, General Burnside’s coastal campaign in North Carolina, and Antietam. Thus, halting the Confederate advance into Union territory and giving President Lincoln victory he needed to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. This political executive order changed the reason of fighting the war, to not only preserve the Union, but to destroy the institution of slavery in the southern states and freeing African Americans from its yoke. In December of 1862, under pressure from the War Department and President Lincoln, General Burnside who had reluctantly taken overall command of the Union’s Army of the Potomac in its Eastern theatre ordered the army to attack the Confederate army under General Robert E. Lee at Fredericksburg, Virginia in hopes to end the war. December 13, 1862 would be the single bloodiest day for Rhode Island.

Wave after wave of blue coated soldiers were sent to storm the heavily fortified Confederate positions on Marye’s Heights but were repulsed by brutal unrelenting canister fire and Minié balls. The 12th RI Infantry disintegrated under fire leaving the 7th RI Infantry to advance alone losing a man every yard. As one Union soldier stated observing the carnage, “Barrels of blood had been poured on the ground.” At dusk of that December day, seventy-five Rhode Islanders were dead and another three hundred more wounded. Brother George Bucklin, a member of Mount Vernon Lodge, Company K, 12th R.I. Infantry was one of the wounded; succumbing to his injuries on January 9, 1863. He was twenty-four years old at the time of his death. The aftermath of the disastrous defeat saw General Burnside step down as commander of the Army of the Potomac and take a command in the Western Theatre of the war.

(To be continued next issue)

Colonel Burnside seated center and Rhode Island officers of the regiment pose at Camp Sprague 1861.

A penciled illustration depicting the R.I. 2nd Infantry engaging the Confederates at Bull Run.

Colonel John S. Slocum of the 2nd RI Infantry Regiment at Bull Run and Brother of Mt. Vernon Lodge.

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These are particularly trying times, and our fraternal regards go out to each and every member of our great fraternity. According to recent research, it is likely that 40 to 50 times as many people may have contracted COVID-19 than have been officially tested and confirmed. Across the age spectrum some show little if any effects, while others, especially those who are older, suffer greatly and are at increased risk of death. A consequence of the actions that have been taken to limit the spread of this scourge has been the suspension of face-to-face lodge meetings.

Every Mason is familiar with the Masonic application of the twenty-four-inch gauge and will recognize the significance of the title of this article. Our lives have all been severely impacted as a result of the government orders that have been put in place in an attempt to limit the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. The old ‘normal’ has disappeared, at least for the time being, and, some say it may never reappear again. We may very well face a new ‘normal’ even when the isolation/quarantine orders are relaxed. Only time will tell.

From a Masonic perspective, most of us have had to suspend our face-to-face Masonic activities, but that does not mean that we must suspend Masonry. Absolutely to the contrary, this pandemic has given each of us the opportunity to more fully engage in the exercise of our Masonic responsibilities. Those members whose vocations have been negatively impacted temporarily (we hope and pray) by being furloughed from their employment or confined to working from home together with those of us who are retired have been presented with additional time to show our care and concern for our fellow lodge members, friends and relatives.

Although we may be limited in physical contact, each of us can pick up the telephone and call others to inquire as to their well-being. My lodge has fewer than 100 members. Even if I were the only member doing the calling, I could call 3 or 4 members per day and have touched my entire lodge’s membership in less than one month. Just imagine if each lodge’s officers established a calling plan where multiple members regularly reached out to other ‘assigned’ members!

My view has always been that Masonry involves very personal one-on-one relationships. Facebook, texts, or e-mail messages just do not present the same ‘I care about you’ feeling that a live voice does. So, what if we can’t meet face-to-face in the lodge room right now? We still have the opportunity to pick up the telephone and call our brothers and others. That, after all is what we have sworn in our obligations that we would do.

So, here’s what I’m suggesting. Until we are able to meet together with a general assurance of physical safety, lodge officers should implement a plan to have multiple members reach out to all of the members of the lodge via voice telephone calls. Keep in mind that this pandemic is especially deadly for those over the age of 60. It may well be that even once lodges are again permitted to hold regular meetings, our older members will be better served by absenting themselves until such time as an effective vaccine has been created and is widely available. Lodges need to be particularly mindful and assure that these brothers are not forgotten. By doing so, the tenets of Masonry will be shown to be alive and well!

I still recall a particularly brutal New England winter many years ago. Everyone was hunkered down in their individual homes during a blizzard. One evening, as the storm was raging outside, the telephone rang. When I answered the call, the voice on the

other end was the Worshipful Master. He had marshaled the services of the Wardens and the three of them called every member of the lodge to inquire as to how they were weathering the storm and ask if there was anything that the lodge could do to assist. Although I was not in need of their assistance, the memory of that call has lingered for close to two decades. That simple caring act made a lasting impression. In the face of this frightful pandemic, a similar act by not only our principle officers, but by each of us will do much to strengthen the bonds of brotherly love

and friendship. So mote it be!

My Brothers,

I take this opportunity to thank you for all the support you have given the Grand Marshal and me this past year. The attendance at our “official visitations” and other events has been something we shall never forget. We had a great time as we traveled throughout this Grand Jurisdiction. During this journey to Grand Master, you have been with me through some highs and lows of my life. From the deepest repository of my soul, I thank you and shall never forget your kindness.

When I began my journey, I knew a good number of brethren in the Craft, however, in my travels I have met so many more who helped me become a better person and challenge me. I never thought I would be able to ride my bicycle 150 miles in two days, but I did and survived with some help from my brothers.

As I look back at the major events this year, I think of the day I took my oath one year ago and how emotional it was, the fun we had at the Grand Lodge banquet, picnic, Fall Festival, and our visitations. However, I will cherish the many times I had intimate talks with brothers on a myriad of topics most of all.

We certainly will never forget the impact COVID -19 had on all of us and how we were thrust into a new way of communicating. I am so proud of all of you that embraced the virtual world that created the platform from which we gathered nightly. It makes me sad that we were not able to personally meet but just being able to see your faces on my computer screen made the intolerable tolerable. This is a tool that is not going to go away and, if we are smart, we will continue to find a use for it in our lodges.

Brethren, our Grand Master is a dedicated Mason who will lead us through these uncertain times with innovative ideas. I wish him the best as he embarks on his term in this new world.

Thank you to my Grand Lodge officers for all the support you gave the Grand Marshal and me. I look with great anticipation to the future knowing that someday you will become Grand Master.

I thank my brethren from Harmony Lodge for their quiet assistance, as well as the time and effort that went into planning the testimonial and visitation to my mother lodge. I was looking forward to both events with great anticipation. It is wonderful the Worshipful Master was able to use some of the money saved for more useful purposes.

To Right Worshipful Brother Michael Northup, you stepped in at a time when I needed a friend. Regrettably, you were not able to knock on as many lodge doors and surprise the brethren as we had planned. I look forward to completing our passports together in the future. This year will be exciting for you and Pattie as you will be getting married in August. Colleen and I are looking forward to being with both of you on that special day.

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Eight for Service to God and a Distressed Worthy Brother By: M∴W∴Charles Yohe, PGM - CT

Thank you for a Wonderful Year By: M∴W∴Kenneth F. Poyton, Junior PGM

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I must not forget to thank my wife Colleen who has been my rock for not only these past nine years but since the first day I met her. Colleen realized the role of wife of a Grand Master was very important and she always rose to the occasion. I can’t imagine what my life would have been had I not met Colleen. In closing, remember my brothers, as Maya Angelo penned, “We are more alike my friends than we are unalike”.

Please be safe in these uncertain times.

My dear brethren,

Normally, I would have thanked you in person for your many gestures of thoughts and prayers through my families most difficult time. But this is the only way I can reach out to many of you, so please pardon me. Dads are very special people, and as the saying goes, “Anyone can be a father, but it takes a special person to be a dad.” It was and is truly comforting to get the many cards and calls from my Masonic family that I have received. Over the years I have come to know that Freemasonry takes on many forms and is unique to each of us. We must never forget that we are a family and even the best of families disagree from time to time but when the chips are down the family comes together, and this I have experienced many times.

Stay safe and follow the rules. I suspect when you read this, we will still be under some type of distancing, and when we all feel

safe, is when Masonry will resume as we know it.

God Bless You All,

Robert A. Palazzo Senior Grand Warden

METRO DISTRICT RW André H. Faria, Jr., DDGM

Brandt and I, after a four year journey traveling through the Southern, Central, Northern and East Bay Districts of our Grand Jurisdiction, are in our final year as a District Deputy/Grand Master of Ceremony team as we begin our service in the Metro District. It is certainly a beginning that I never expected. Who would ever have thought that we would be conducting virtual lodge meetings, including annuals! But our fraternity is resilient. Geographical distance will not prevent us from being who we are, and our ability to adapt to the changing circumstances of our times will not only strengthen our bonds but also our resolve moving forward. As long as we are communicating, whether over a computer screen or through email or telephone call or text message, we remain together, for our bonds are not always visible, it is in our actions that our link to each other takes flesh. Freemasonry will survive!

Our travels would not have been possible if not for the appointment of this honor by our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Gary F. Kaufman. We offer him our most sincere congratulations upon his ascent to the Grand East and promise our filial support as we travel both virtually and geographically (we hope) with him during his year as Grand Master. We also look forward to working with his Grand Marshal, Right Worshipful Melvin E. Silverio as he assists the Grand Master as his travel companion. Brandt and I are looking forward to an exciting year in our Grand Jurisdiction. Although Grand Masters and their Grand Officers from other Jurisdictions

were not able to celebrate our Grand Master’s ascent this year, I am sure that our Grand Lodge will rally together and appropriately celebrate his many years of selfless dedication to our Craft and provide him the utmost support on our journey through the remainder of 2020 and onto 2021.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank our most recent Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful Kenneth F. Poyton who did a magnificent job guiding our Grand Lodge through the beginning of the COVID crisis. His leadership and ability to help us remain connected with the restrictions that were placed upon us is truly exemplary. I am sure that we will have an opportunity over the next several months when this crisis hopefully settles down to honor him properly for all that he has done for our Grand Jurisdiction.

So where do we go from here? Although our paths may be uncertain, as men who believe in a higher power; we need to have faith that the end toward which we are all traveling will inspire us to remain faithful toward those vows we have all professed. Many of us have temporarily lost our jobs, some permanently, and these unexpected happenings have had the effect of making us stop and reflect upon our lives and the ultimate meaning of our existence. Some scientists are saying that the global crisis with its resultant closing down of factories and lessening auto emissions has begun to heal the planet and as a result we are experiencing cooler than usual weather. There is no doubt that having been forced to cease our regular routines and learn new ones while initially inconvenient, has helped us to appreciate how blessed we have been and how quickly our lives can change.

Freemasonry teaches us a lot, but at its core, our tenents emphasize that above all we must exercise kindness toward each other, our families, friends, and all those with whom we interact. One of the highest complements anyone could pay us would be to say, “he never had an unkind word to say about anyone.” It has been my experience that the opposite, “unkindness” emerges from a fundamental unease that exists within someone. Sometimes our desires and wants when unfulfilled cause us frustration, anxiety, and anger as if the desire or want if unmet somehow makes us less of a person. But nothing could be further from the truth. Our creator has willed each of us into existence and the mere fact that “we are” is in and of itself a wondrous event, it is virtually everything we need! Every single one of us is destined to exist. So, what is our response when we are feeling less than kind? I do not know about you, but what works for me is to be grateful. Gratitude for this minute. Gratitude for this hour. Gratitude for the ability to read, to comprehend, to communicate, to love, and to recognize that it is when we cease expecting anything, that all which comes to us is suddenly transformed as a great gift. Freemasonry’s tenents teach us that life is a gift to be cherished, not only ours, but especially the lives of all we meet, all we have known and all who will abundantly bless our future. Hang in there my brothers, the

best is yet to come!

EAST BAY DISTRICT RW Rick Baccus DDGM

“If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, but make allowance for their doubting to” “IF” - Rudyard Kipling What If: -You were spotlighted on local television by the State Government. -The retirement you sought went the way of Michael Corleone.

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A Special Thank You to All

Report from the Masonic Districts

Page 10 June/July/August 2020 _____________________________________________________________________

RI Freemason Deadlines

Publishing Schedule The Rhode Island Freemason is published four times based on a Masonic calendar year. Deadlines for submissions are listed below for each issue. The issues will be published as follows:

DECEMBER/JANUARY/FEBRUARY Deadline: November 1st

MARCH/APRIL/MAY Deadline: February 1st

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST Deadline: May 1st

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Deadline: August 1st

From the Editor Dear Brethren,

I thank everyone who submitted reports and articles for this issue. Unfortunately, we did not have space for everyone’s submissions. Where appropriate, I have saved the material for our next issue. As a reminder please submit your material for future issues before the deadline date. Space is on a first come, first serve basis. As the deadline approaches, there is less and less space available and your material may not be published if received on or after the deadline date.

A few simple guidelines are in order for submissions;

• Please send all articles as MS Word, Word Perfect or Text documents

• Photographs or illustrations should be sent as Jpeg, Tiff or Bitmap files

• Please no PDF files, they will not be accepted.

• The deadline for each issue is firm and submissions are on a first come, first served basis, the sooner your article arrives the more likely it is to be included

• Please send files to hstrclrsch@aol.com as well as rifreemason@rimasons.org addresses.

Fraternally, Brother Richard Lynch

Editor: R∴W∴Richard F. Lynch

Associate Editors: M∴W∴Leon C. Knudsen, PGM R∴W∴Jack Anderson Millie T. Hallstrom

Editorial Advisior: R∴W∴Ronald P. Reed R∴W∴Grand Secretary

Interesting Historical Facts of Freemasonry In Rhode Island

Selected from a review of the Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge

8th Installment

11/14/1910 Grand Lodge is advised that the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of USA had established a memorial and monument fund to erect a monument in memory to Henry Warren Rugg, Past Grand Master of the Grand Encampment. They invited Grand Lodge of Rhode Island and the Grand Commandery of MA/RI to appoint a member to the Board of Trustees of the Fund. Contributions for the fund are solicited from all Commanderies of Knights Templar. Funds remaining after payment of cemetery lot and funeral expense, Swan Point Cemetery, will be used for aid to widow and family. Grand Encampment established the fund with $10,000 and Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island contributed $1,000. Grand Lodge of RI contributed $500.

5/19/1913 A committee appointed at Annual Meeting, May 1911 to consider advisibility of establishing a Masonic Home reported results of their research. Most lodges remit dues for charitable purposes, a small number of widows and/or orphans have received financial relief from lodges. The survey emphasized relief of INDIGENT MASONS and families. Resolved that a Masonic Home Fund be established. $2,000 from Grand Lodge funds to be increased by donations and per capita tax from all lodges of ten cents will comprise the fund. These funds may not be used for other purposes.

5/19/1913 Identification and evidence of dues payment of every Mason shall be issued by secretaries of all lodges. These will be presented to Tilers before entering lodge room as a member or visitor.

To be continued.

Pawtucket Temple Cornerstone and Time Capsule By: Brother Robert Frank

I arrived early to the Pawtucket Temple on April 22, 2020. The streets were empty and although I live relatively close to the lodge, I made it in record time. There was no traffic, very few cars, and a few people running or walking on Blackstone Blvd. For me it was a bit surreal and had some sensory overload. I hadn’t driven my truck in what felt like forever. Those feelings continued throughout the day for me.

It was a beautiful April day, with some warmer weather than we’d been experiencing yet to the rest of the world just another day. Another day we faced alone as Covid-19 persisted and kept people apart. But for the Jenks Lodge and the other bodies of Freemasonry that called this Temple home for the last 50 years, this was historic. Our days in this temple are winding down. Like the sands in the hourglass, they are running swiftly and our time in this temple was drawing to a close. But today we not only made history but were able to experience it and be a living breathing part of it.

On this day we had the cornerstones, one from the High St. building dated 1897 and the Pawtucket Temple building dated 1970 removed. A bittersweet reminder of our time in Pawtucket ending. We enlisted Victor and Rui Dias, operative and speculative Master Masons to help us with this enormous and historic task. This task, not just significant for the preservation of the corner stones, was even more special as they contained a gift from our brothers for 1897 and 1970. A time Capsule!

When Dias Brothers Masonry arrived, I had already been busy photographing the corner stones, lodge, and areas of the building, so that we can have a reminder of the things past. Our Operative Masons took to work right away, scoring lines and beginning cuts.

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_____________________________________________________________________________________ Rhode Island Freemason Page 11

-That you are one of the few who go to work every day and the roads are empty.

-That the highlight of the week is getting takeout fish and chips.

-That you get up on Friday morning to go to the store at 6:00AM to get toilet paper at $1.50 a roll.

-That you pray every day for those in your care and negative tests results.

Some Orwellian future 20 years from now? No, welcome to life from January to April 2020.

And welcome to Zoom. My how our lives have changed. Thanks to the Grand Master for his vision for our Craft, we can communicate at the Grand Lodge, the district, and the individual lodge level. Welcome to video conferencing. For those of us trying to catch up, it is great to see the brothers; and I will decide if I want to figure out the background picture of a desert. Brother Rick Lynch and I have attended many of our Northern District Lodge meetings; and it is great to see the brethren. Although none of us envisioned this state of affairs, Freemasonry is ahead of the power curve on continuing our fraternal relationships. Brother Rick and I created a bit of history when we conducted our first virtual lodge annual electing and installing the officers of Roger Williams Lodge No.32.

I extend my congratulations to W∴M∴Scott Thompson and his line

of officers and recognize W∴Mike Farina and his officers for an outstanding year. To the brothers of the Northern District, not only does light abound but so does the brotherly love.

Brother Rick and I, along with our ladies Kay and Patti are excited about visiting the brethren in the East Bay District. This is my home district and I looking forward to enjoying the camaraderie and

fellowship that is the hallmark of the district. I know that R∴W∴Al Cameron will be saying many prayers for us this year.

As always, we should close on a Prayer for the Times.

One Sunday morning at a small southern church the new pastor called on one of the older deacons to lead the opening prayer. The deacon stood up, bowed his head and said “Lord, I hate buttermilk.” The pastor opened one eye and wondered where this was going. The deacon continued, “Lord, I hate lard.” Now the pastor was totally perplexed. The deacon continued, “Lord, I ain’t too crazy about flour either. But if you mix ‘em together and bake ‘em in a hot oven…I just love biscuits!” The deacon didn’t stop there. “Lord,” he said “help us to realize when things come up that we don’t like, whenever we don’t understand what you are doing, that we need to wait and see what you are making. After you get through mixing and baking, it will probably be even better than biscuits. Amen”

As always, please feel free to contact me at rickbaccus@cox.net or at 401-413-6281 to let us know of any lodge events Rick and I

should attend.

If you can dream – and not make dreams your master,

If you can think – and not make thoughts you aim,

If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster,

And treat the two imposters just the same.

“IF” - by: Rudyard Kipling

NORTHERN DISTRICT

R∴W∴ Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr., DDGM

Greetings Brethren,

First, a thank you to Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Kenneth F. Poyton who has led this fraternity through a difficult and unexpected time. He and the Grand Council swiftly adapted to state issued “social distancing” edicts during Covid-19 pandemic,

which literary shutdown all Masonic in-person meetings. They put protocols in place, and we began conducting our lodge meetings virtually.

To Most Worshipful Poyton, you displayed great leadership during this pandemic. I feel this event will always overshadow your year as Grand Master. But what cannot be overlooked is to recognize how much appreciated your leadership was prior to the forced shut down. In every case were there was a potential issue or concern within our Masonic ranks, protocols, or edicts, you decided in the best interest of the brethren while maintaining the integrity of the Craft as a whole, even in those gray areas. Throughout your Masonic journey you were known as a black or white (no gray) kind of leader, who led by the book. In your line of business there is no other way. I personally attest and appreciate that you found a balance.

To the masters of the Central District, so much time, preparation, and anticipation goes into becoming Master of a lodge, with all of that, as Jay and I move on to the Northern District, we congratulate

Worshipful Masters; W∴Patrick Conner - Harmony No. 9, W∴Jeff Appt - Manchester No. 12, W∴Earl Mann - Iconic No.28; W∴Robert Fish – Daylight No. 48 and all of the lodge officers and brethren of the Central District. Jay and I came into the Central District with much anticipation and excitement and very much appreciate your attention and support. Though our time together for the last part of the year has been by virtual meeting, we were still able to meet and enjoy each other’s company. Thank you and we look forward to meeting on the level in our lodge at some point in the future.

As a fraternity we are in unprecedented times, and time waits for no one. Smack dab in the middle of this pandemic we had our Grand Lodge annual communication. It was scaled back virtual version of what we have had in the past, but this will not be the case with our new leadership. Congratulations to Brother Gary S. Kaufman, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. We may not have had the fanfare to welcome our Grand Master, yet, but it is coming! Even as I write, “social distancing” rules are changing but suffice it to say, things will be different in our immediate future. As a fraternity we are fortunate Grand Master Kaufman is strong and resilient and will continue to lead us through this crisis. We will be a stronger fraternity because of him.

Our new normal is in a state of flux, but Jay and I look forward to being with our brethren in the Northern District. We thank Most Worshipful Grand Master Gary S. Kaufman for the appointment to

the Northern District and pledge our support when needed.

CENTRAL DISTRICT RWEric E. Grist, Jr., DDGM

John and I hope each of you and your families are staying healthy and safe.

On March 11 Hope Lodge hosted us for our official visitation. Little did we know that that visit would be our final visit to a lodge for this Masonic year. By the time you read this our time in the Southern District will have passed. We are both extremely disappointed that we did not get to attend the events of what would have been the final months of our travels.

I owe a lot to Freemasonry and miss attending and visiting lodges when life calls me to other duties. However, I did not realize how much. I feel that a void has been created within me over the last seven weeks. My basement and garage have never been more organized, my garden is way ahead of schedule, and I have done enough “from scratch” cooking to gain five pounds. Even so, the days pass with a strong feeling of emptiness. I expect that

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emptiness is you. I can now attest that truly “Mankind were made dependent on each other.”

I am enormously proud of the efforts that the lodges of the Southern District have put forth. They are reaching out to the elder members and special ladies, staying in touch using video conferencing to hold both formal and informal meetings, doing food runs for those in need, and even suppling cloth masks for members.

I expect that by the time you are reading this, some form of the Grand Lodge annual will have taken place. I would like to thank M∴W∴Ken Poyton for his faith and support in John and me. I would

also like to congratulate M∴W∴Gary Kaufman our new Grand Master and wish him a wonderful year. As this past year has ended in such an odd manner, the upcoming year I expect, will be equally unusual.

I do not know what the coming months will bring. However, I do know that the brothers in this jurisdiction will show the world the

best of what it means to be a Mason!

St. Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence By: W∴Timothy L. Culhane, P.M.

St. Johns Lodge perseveres and will continue to do so. Before the pandemic struck, we held our last “normal” regular communication on Wednesday, February 19 with nearly 50 brothers in attendance. Presenting to the lodge that evening was a very special guest, Dr. Jack Mustard from Brown University’s Planetary Data Center. He gave a very captivating presentation about the next challenges in NASA’s exploration of Mars. He answered many questions about the current state of our space program and the future of space exploration. It was an extremely enjoyable evening for everyone present.

Then arrived our current crisis. As Robert Burns wrote,” the best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft agley.” In accordance with the directive issued by the Grand Master, the stated communication scheduled for March 18 was cancelled. Originally slated for that meeting was the conferring of the Master Mason degree on all available candidates, which has been postponed to a later date. The top five officers of the lodge met asynchronously via email to manage the normal business of the lodge.

The 3887th stated communication of St. Johns Lodge No. 1P scheduled for April 15 was declared open by Worshipful Master Mazen Alsabe without ritual and held virtually via Zoom. This was

approved by Grand Master M∴W∴Kenneth F. Poyton, who attended as well. Due to the first-time experimental nature of this communication, attendance was limited. In addition to the officers of the lodge and our Grand Master, in attendance was

R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant, our DDGM as well as other Grand Lodge officers and some members. The secretary’s desk was cleared, and typical lodge business was addressed. It is the hope and intention of the Worshipful Master to conduct lodge meetings in this manner in the future as long as is necessary and approved, and dependent on the ability of our technology to handle it.

So much of the hard work and planning done by W∴Mazen and his line of officers has been disrupted by this global health crisis. Some of the leading event casualties include April’s DDGM R∴W∴Douglas J. Grant’s last visitation to St. Johns Lodge and his last visitation to the districts. The DDGM’s visitation is one of the highlights of the year, and this very-special meeting, was sorely missed. The Worshipful Master had worked hard to re-introduce

the “Swing into Spring” party, which was scheduled for Saturday, April 18. Our lodge visit of Euclid Lodge No. 136 from Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey was also cancelled.

The methods and virtual venues for our future communications and events will continue to adapt and evolve as we progress. Everything is dependent of the everchanging status of the crisis. The officers of St. Johns made an effort to reach out to every member of the lodge. If you were not contacted, it may be because the lodge does not have up to date contact information. If you do not think the lodge has your current information, please contact the lodge with your correct information. All meetings and events going forward are subject to our ever-changing health crisis condition. We hope to have “brick-and-mortar” meetings starting again in May or June, but that may not happen, and we may end up conducting “virtual” meetings. Major events such as the lodge annual communication, steak-fry, and even our lodge family picnic are being assessed for feasibility under current and future circumstances and health guidelines. As events unfold and the community health status is updated, our plans can become real. Please keep an eye on the lodge web site at https://www.stjohns1p.com or reach out to the Master, Wardens, or any officer of the lodge for updates.

The Worshipful Master wishes to extend to you a happy, safe and healthy spring and summer and encourages all the brethren to look in and check up on each other as we weather this unique episode

in our history.

Mount Vernon Lodge No. 4 By: W∴Paul T. Fetter, III, P.M.

Greetings Brethren,

Hopefully, this writing finds you and our extended Masonic family well during these past trying months. One of the major benefits of being shut-in over the last few months has allowed many brothers and their families to experience pieces of home life that often get overlooked in today’s hustle and bustle of life such as spending time with our wives and children, being outside, and simply being together.

At Mount Vernon Lodge, W∴Andrew and our excellent line officers have been tested during these times to ensure that every member of Mount Vernon is informed and spoken with to ensure that they and their families are staying safe. As we all know from our oaths and our everyday lives, sometimes picking up the phone and talking with our brothers can make all the difference to show that we are a brotherhood undivided and one that cares about our fellow Masons not only during times of difficulty, but everyday throughout the year.

Looking into the next few months, hopefully will see us back to our usual labors in the Craft. We have a rather large class this year with several candidates who have petitioned the lodge for membership and will receive the degrees of Freemasonry. Alongside these men, we will be having some brothers return to complete their final two degrees. Mount Vernon will also be hosting its annual chicken barbeque on July 26 with proceeds to assist our Washington Association of Wickford as well as the Shriner’s Hospital. We will also be hosting the Ocean State Pops Orchestra again this year at the North Kingstown Town Beach on Victory Day, August 10, 2020 for their concert “Celebrating America”, which is a truly beautiful event and a nice evening for the wives and children to hear some amazing musical selections. Hopefully, by the summer we can all enjoy a nice evening at the beach. Hope

to see you there from your brothers at Mount Vernon Lodge.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE LODGES

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Harmony Lodge No. 9 By: Brother Jan A. Zukowski

“May he live in interesting times.” In June of 1966, Robert Kennedy included this phrase in his ‘Day of Affirmation’ address delivered in Cape Town, South Africa. Kennedy followed with, “Like it or not, we live in interesting times. They are times of danger and uncertainty; but they are also the most creative of any time in the history of mankind.” I am not here to make an argument, either way, of where we find ourselves in society now in comparison to the 1960s. Rather, we as a Masonic fraternity have spanned the ages with the same ideals, goals, and principles to be there for each other and help our fellow brothers in need. In a connected world we always run the risk of further distancing ourselves from one another and in no other time in recent memory is there a time when we need to be there for each other more than now. Find those brothers in your lodge that you have not heard from and reach out for a quick call. Offer to pick up groceries for our widows. Now is the time to be creative and work on the tenets of our fraternity that bring us closer together. This is our responsibility to each other, and I encourage you all to go and do the work of our Craft, for this work must truly be our own.

Harmony Lodge hosted the 42nd Annual Brother Henry Rossi Memorial Game Dinner at the Portuguese Club in Cranston on March 1, 2020. This was a wonderfully attended event and it was great to see so many brothers come and support this event. Since that time, we have had to be creative in how we maintain contact with each other. Similar to other lodges, we have adopted Zoom as a virtual streaming platform to host officer meetings, meet as a Doric board, and hold our monthly communications. Social media and email have also played a role in getting information out to our brothers, and we have been making telephone calls to our brethren to be that friendly voice on the other line to check in and say hello. Brothers Bill Laliberte, James Lafitte and Steve Reali have been virtually working with our candidates on their degree work and keeping them engaged. We all hope that we can continue with our degree work soon.

May started out with the Grand Master’s virtual visitation to his Mother Lodge on May 5. This was great success despite not being with our Grand Master in person.

It has been said that “we are all in this together.” To a certain extent this may be true, but we are not truly together, not like we were. Having recently spoken with a number of brothers throughout the jurisdiction, I have heard similar sentiments; we miss being together. I want to close with this, we at Harmony miss you all. Greatly. It’s not just the monthly communications and district visitations, but all the little things, the dinners and the conversations. The unique things that lodges do. The brothers that will add a selfie of themselves when asked to take a picture. All this that connect us as a fraternity. We will be together soon, and we look forward to that day.

W∴Don Aquilante has said, “a journey starts with a first step, a conversation starts with a first word.” Until we meet again.

The following brothers of Harmony Lodge wish to pass on their contact information to all of you looking to connect and/or have a brother to lean on.

Bro. Jan Zukowski jan_zukowski@verizon.net 401-837-1747

W∴Dick Wood rbwood2012@gmail.com

Bro. Stephen Garvey sggarvey@gmail.com text at 401-742-4545

As always, please refer to www.harmony9.org and the monthly trestle board for specific details, including instructions for placing reservations, upcoming dates and events. Please continue to

support your lodge and participate as you are able.

Franklin Lodge No. 20

By: W∴Ray Geer, P.M.

Franklin Lodge Celebrates its 50th Anniversary (The Westerly Sun May 22, 1907)

Franklin Lodge celebrated their 50th Anniversary on May 21, 1907 with 193 people present. Officials of Grand Lodge were in attendance. The History of the lodge Since May 21, 1857 was presented.

A half century has passed since the Charter was granted to Franklin Lodge No. 20, A.F. and A.M. At that time there were 20 men who became charter members and today none of them are alive. In a befitting manner and after extensive preparations, the occasion was celebrated in the Masonic rooms in the Barber Memorial building on High Street, Tuesday evening.

A banquet was spread in the banquet hall for 150 guests, but when the members of the lodge and their friends began to arrive it was clearly evident that the capacity of the tables would be tested to the utmost. Accordingly, extra tables were set up in the smaller lodge room for the overflow.

Long before 7:00 o’clock the guests began to arrive and were escorted to the parlor in the front. From there they wandered into the main lodge room where an informal reception was held prior to

On February 29, 2020, Franklin Lodge No. 20 presented the Westerly Youth Wrestling Club with a check for $495.00 as part of Grand Lodge Charities "Community Betterment Grant". Presenting the check on behalf of Franklin Lodge are W∴Ray Geer, PM and Brother Robert Caron.

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the banquet. At 7:30 the line, headed by the officials, formed and marched into the banquet hall which had been elaborately decorated for the occasion. Potted plants and palms were everywhere in evidence, lending materially to the brightness of the occasion. The Ideal orchestra was stationed in the lobby and played during the banquet.

Stiles Ross of Stonington catered and had his hands full in caring for the large number of banqueters than was anticipated and accordingly prepared for. The menu served was as follows:

Little Neck Clams, Bouillon in Cups, Boiled Halibut, Hollandaise Sauce, Chip Potatoes.

Roast Spring Lamb, Mint Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, French Peas. Chicken Salad, Mayonnaise Dressing, Crackers, Cream Cheese.

Angle Cake, Orange Cake, Pound Cake, Lady Fingers, Macaroons.

Address of Welcome J. Alonzo Babcock made the address of welcome. He said in part, “I do not think it needs any words of mine to convince you that we are glad you are here with us to celebrate this occasion. I welcome the ladies here because we want you to know something of the work we are doing. I am the oldest past master alive and I suppose that is the reason they asked me to address you. The lodge has had 30 past masters and one-half of them have passed on to the Great Beyond.”

“The lessons we teach here ought to fit one for a better life. I do not think Freemasonry is a religion, but we do teach a higher code of morals here. Its results tend to make a man a better neighbor, a better friend, and a better citizen. As I think of the long list, who have gone before, I am glad to be here tonight as a member of this society. One of the keynotes of Freemasonry is to help those who need it.”

History of the Lodge Albert E. Barber, a past master, was next introduced. He read a long and interesting historical sketch of the lodge that dealt minutely with the details of the history of the organization for the past 50 years. His sketch was in part as follows:

Nine members of the fraternity residing in Westerly, RI, presented a petition to the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island November 1856 for a dispensation for a lodge in Westerly to be known as Franklin Lodge No. 20, A.F. and A.M. The dispensation was granted to the signers and they met for the first time on December 30, 1856. On May 25, 1857, the charter was granted by the Grand lodge and was received by Franklin lodge on July 1857, when they held an election of offices under it.

On the charter appear twenty names as follows: Rufus Ames, Henry S. Benson, Weeden Clark, William H. Chapman, Henry H. Farnham, Augustus J. Foster, Stanton Hazard, John Hazard, James H. Hoyt, Daniel F. Larkin, Francis Marriott, John Moore, Chester W. Marson, James McDonald, John McGregor, William Potter, William Potter Jr, Albert S. Potter, Artemus O. Sisson, William T. Thurston.

In the year 1859 a number of them withdrew and five of them later became charter members of Pawcatuck Lodge No. 90 of Pawcatuck, Connecticut. At the January session of the general assembly in 1870 the lodge was incorporated.

Thirty of the members have presided over the lodge during its existence of 50 years. Fifteen of them have died, one has been stricken from the rolls and this evening fourteen are living and in

good standing. During the early years of the lodge, it passed through trials and difficulties which for a time threatened to put an end to its existence, but there were found a faithful few who sustained the lodge in its time of adversity by their timely counsel and liberal contributions, and it is owing to their efforts, as much as to any other cause, that it exists today, and enjoys such a good degree of prosperity. Its interests have always been carefully guarded, and its affairs have been placed in prudent and safe hands.

Franklin Lodge derives its name from that great philanthropist, Benjamin Franklin, and the annual communication of the lodge are held on January 17, the anniversary of his birth.

A number of our members have attained high official positions in the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, while others have been honored in state and nation. Most Worshipful Thomas Vincent was twice elected to the honored position of Grand Master of Rhode Island, and a number of other members have been called upon to fill important positions of trust and responsibility.

In the nation, United States senator and United States representative have been chosen from our members, and in the state a governor and a secretary of state.

Since the organization of the lodge, 447 names have been placed upon its roll of membership, 107 have died while holding their membership, 147 have changed their membership for various reasons and this evening 193 are on the roll and in good standing.

Literary Exercise It was 9:30 o’clock before adjournment was made to the main lodge room to listen to the literary portion of the evening’s entertainment. The seats around the room were filled and the temporary chairs that had been place in the center were well filled, there being only a very few in the immediate front that were vacant. To the left was stationed the Ideal orchestra which opened the program. The program of the evening was as follows:

Overture: “Raymond” – Suppe

“Golden Chains” – Gerrish

Reading of Scripture: “When We Stand Before the King” – Nevin

Prayer: – Kenyon

Recitation: – Brother Harry L. Bolles

Address of Welcome: – R∴W∴J. Alonzo Babcock

Historical Sketch of the Lodge: – W∴Albert E. Barber

Oration: – Rev. Henry W. Rugg, D.D.

“I’m a Pilgrim” – Marston

Doxology

Benediction

March: – “Boston Commandrey” – Burrel

The Schumann Male Quartet of Providence, which furnished the vocal part of the program, was excellent. Their enunciation was perfect and seldom is heard the harmony that the four men produced. Their final selection, “I’m a Pilgrim” was heartily encored until they were forced to make their appearance a second time. Rev. L. F. Lusk, the Chaplin of the lodge, read the Scriptures and

offered prayer.

________________________________________________________________ Rhode Island Freemason Page 15

Jenks Lodge No. 24 By: Brother Mark Lomastro

What is Normal? That is a question many of us have been asking ourselves lately. We as a nation and as a world have been told that there is a “New Normal” that we must abide by due to the Corona Virus pandemic. Stay home, obsessively wash your hands, social distance yourself, gather in groups of not over 5 people and wear face masks whenever leaving home. The new normal has unfortunately been one of isolation and in some instances fear.

This new normal has affected all of society throughout the world. But as Freemasons what does this new normal mean to us specifically? It means of course, a lack of in person meetings and get togethers, but more important than that, it has been a firm reminder of what it truly means to be a Mason in your heart. It is a striking reminder for Masons to aid your fellow man, especially if he is a brother. And my brothers, you have responded in the best possible manner. The members of Jenks Lodge, and all the lodges in the state, have stepped up to offer aid to any who cannot get around or need help or assistance in these troubling times. Our officers and fellow members have made a commitment to call every member of our lodge and keep in regular contact to make sure no brother is left in need. As of this writing in mid-April we have attempted to contact every member of Jenks Lodge every two weeks. And to this point the brothers of Jenks are doing well, far from asking the lodge for aid, most of the members have immediately asked what they could do to help. This mindset shared by my brethren has made me proud to be a Mason.

Normally at this point in the article we would list our definitive plans for the next three months. But this is the “New Normal” and so our plans are unfortunately uncertain. We will at the bare minimum, have virtual meetings available on our regular meeting nights. Check our website www.jenkslodge.com and private Facebook page for details or contact us at jenkslodge@gmail.com for any needed links to join us. If conditions improve and we are allowed to meet in person in the coming months, we intend on conferring the Entered Apprentice degree on June 22, and holding additional special communication meetings on the fourth Monday of July and August in which we hope to reschedule the speakers that were scheduled for earlier in the year. Keep an eye on our social media and website for more concrete information as it becomes available.

To all our Brothers we miss you and look forward to seeing you all

again when we return to normal, until that time, stay safe.

Collegivm Lvminosvm By: W∴Timothy Culhane, Chancellor

The Chancellor, officers, fellows and scholars of COLLEGIVM LVMINOSVM hope that this finds you healthy and safe. The global pandemic through which we all suffer has disrupted the

COLLEGIVM just as it has everyone. Originally slated for March 24

the Annual Communication for the COLLEGIVM was postponed until a date to be determined. The communication scheduled for Wednesday April 29 was cancelled.

Everything being dependent on vanquishing the virus, a new date for the annual communication will be scheduled as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. A new date for a scheduled communication to be held in the late Spring or Summer is being discussed, as well as the possibility for virtual communications using one of the various internet communication technologies available.

Although the times dictate a radical divergence from the norm, they

can provide opportunity for focus and research. The COLLEGIVM encourages all fellows, scholars and brothers to use this time to study, research, and discover. Ask questions and look for answers. Hopefully, the knowledge uncovered and discovered will motivate a potential researcher in the jurisdiction to pursue his line of inquiry, satisfy his curiosity, and entertain the possibility or

writing or presenting to the COLLEGIVM.

As the current situation develops, and in accordance with health guidelines and the leadership and guidance of our Grand Lodge, the details for future communications and Salons (informal

meetings of the COLLEGIVM) will be posted in our trestle board, on our website (http://www.collegivmlvminosvm.org), our Facebook page and the Grand Lodge calendar.

The Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, officers,

fellows and scholars of the COLLEGIVM wish all of you a healthy and safe spring and summer. We hope that situation in which we find ourselves can provide an avenue towards enlightenment and self-discovery. When the time comes, we can meet again. We hope you can join us at one of our salons or at a stated

communication.

Among the things in life that I have learned in seven plus decades is that there are two basic kinds of people – givers and takers. Takers are all about themselves. They will flaunt the rules, cut corners, cheat, and do whatever is necessary to climb another rung on the ladder of what they consider as success. They don’t particularly care who they may hurt on their journey, so long as they get what they want in life.

Givers, on the other hand, not only play by the rules of common decency but often go out of their way to help their fellow man. The generation that fought so valiantly for our freedoms and that of our European neighbors in World War II included many who were great givers. Tens of thousands of that generation gave their very lives so that the forces of evil could be overcome. Others, we’re now finding out through declassified documents went above and beyond to defeat the enemy and although not killed, lived for the rest of their lives with memories that would haunt them to the point that they could not talk about what they had endured or seen. My father and uncle, who both deployed to France during WW II refused to talk about their experiences there. But from comments that they made in response to questions about the war, I was able to glean the fact that, although they made it through the war without physical injury, there were experiences they had endured that were difficult for them to reconcile or share.

In my life, I have been blessed with an abundance of givers! Certainly, some of those givers were family members. I consider my father as chief among those. Economically, we were considered a poor family. When I look through some of my father’s belongings and find some of his old pay stubs, it amazes me that our family of 6, 4 kids and 2 adults, lived so well on so little. And yet, my father was always willing to give to others. If a friend or relative called with an electrical or mechanical problem, my dad would drop what he was doing and respond to the need. He would take no compensation in return. My dad never had a credit card or even a checking account, but he could go to any merchant in our town and purchase what was needed with a promise to pay what was owed.

(continued on page 16)

Are You A Giver or A Taker? By: M∴W∴Charles Yohe, PGM - CT

Page 16 June/July/August 2020 ___________________________________________________________________

(continued from Page 15, Giver or Taker)

The givers are legion. Some who come to mind include Red Skelton, one of the greatest comedians ever. Skelton who was a Mason, gave us the gift of laughter, without the use of any foul language or off-color humor. Another great entertainer, Brother Danny Thomas, founded the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Brother Arnold Palmer, one of the greatest golfers ever, is credited with the rise of popularity of golf. Arnie’s Army, a mob of fans who followed him from hole to hole during tournaments was an incredible sight to behold. But beyond the golf, Arnold Palmer was a giver and his philanthropic effort continues to this day through his foundation.

There have been many other givers in my life, individuals from all walks of life who have been willing to give without any thought to what I might be able to give back, and I am deeply appreciative of the support they’ve rendered. Many of those, though I did not know it at the time were eventually revealed to be members of the Masonic fraternity. All of them have had a role in molding me and mentoring me. They have been a great inspiration and I have tried to emulate them in my own life.

I think the highest compliment that can be given to an individual is to bestow upon him, the title of “giver!” During my life, I have tried to give back as well. The great lesson that Masonry tries to impart to each of us is that we are servants to our fellow men. It matters not whether one is the youngest Entered Apprentice in the northeast corner or the Grand Master of Masons, each Mason is charged to serve humanity. When a brother’s obituary is written, the highest compliment that can be paid to him is the notation that

“he was a giver and a servant to his fellow men.” So, mote it be.

A few months ago, we lost a Rhode Island Freemason, a hard worker in the quarries of Masonic research and education. An author, he wrote many articles and organized the Rhode Island

Freemason as its first editor. W∴Kalian also was the editor of, “A Bicentennial Review of Rhode Island Freemasonry published in 1976 and distributed to all RI brothers.

I had the pleasure of working with W∴Bob on these two projects in the early 1970s. W∴Bob spent his entire Masonic career of 50 years in the quarries of Masonic research and education. I consider him one of the most knowledgeable Freemasons I have

known. Along with W∴Allen E. Roberts, also a Masonic author of , “The House Undivided” and “The Craft and It Symbols.” Both of

these brothers come from Rhode Island. W∴Bob was a member of St. Johns Lodge 1 Providence and Scottish Rite Valley of

Providence. W∴Roberts settled in Virginia after WW II. The Grand Lodge Library of Virginia is named after W∴Allen. In 2018 W∴Bob published a book, “The Hidden Secret Power of Freemasonry.” It describes the three degrees in detail and covers the history of the Craft right up to the present time. It leaves no doubt of that Freemasonry is what we do and what our goals are. It should be

in the hands of every Mason. W∴Robert Kalian will be surely

missed.

(continued from Page 10, Pawtucket Temple Cornerstones)

As work progressed, Charlie Schotter and I began to talk about memories he had of the Temple, and how we both wished that the circumstances of the world were different, so that the brothers of all the Pawtucket Temple bodies could be here to take part in the event.

As work continued, we began to see the enormity of the project. The stones were massive. The older stone measuring 24”h x 30”w x 24”d made of solid granite. Charlie and I even had to remove a section of the interior wall, in order to get to the back of the stones. When we saw the back of the stone concern and worry began to set in. There was no obvious evidence the time capsule was there. Were we wrong? Was the time capsule somewhere else in the building, where? As these thoughts entered my head, I began to question Charlie. Who would really know where it was? Who could have been there? The only Brother that I could think of was Honorary Master Bill Lester. So, with a call to brother secretary

Stephan Saraidarian, I had W∴Lester’s info. I called Bill with hope that he was there, and with no surprise to me, or anyone else who has ever spoken to him, Bill said he was there that day and remembered the time capsule being behind the corner stone. Hearing this I was reassured the time capsule would be there.

The moment had finally come. The stones were released from the mortar and brick that had held them strongly in place for almost half a century. As the stones slid together, removed from their place of distinction in the Northeast corner of the building, they fell to the ground. No time-capsule! We looked in the surrounding area of brick and mortar. Nothing, Charlie was convinced that the stones were hollowed out to receive the time capsule. Victor, with hammer and chisel, in the same manor our ancient brethren for centuries had worked with stone, struck the mortar seam, and with a bit of persuasion separated the stones to reveal the capsule.

The nervous anticipation for myself and the others there turned to excitement as our operative brother flipped the stone upside down to reveal a lead covered box, safely set into the stone, surrounded by mortar. The Masonic symbolism of the rough and perfect ashlars seemed to me very fitting in the moment. Within a few minutes, the time-capsule had been freed from the stone which cradled and protected it for the last 50 years.

Representatives from the other concordant bodies had arrived prior to the stones being freed from the building. With care and consideration of the history in their hands, Charlie and Victor removed the beautifully detailed lead covering of the time capsule. Our excitement for the moment began to rise as we noticed the box had many bolts holding the lid in place, and on each bolt, a square and compasses. As we opened the time capsule, we began to carefully layout the contents and photograph the items. Newspapers from 1897 and 1969, photographs of the officers of Jenks, Union, E.L. Freeman, Barney Merry Lodges, Unity, Chapter, Council, and Commandry, coins from 1897 and 1969. The items deemed important to the day they were laid into the capsule. The representatives, with care and admiration for the historic items took charge of them to safely return them to their proper homes. For many of these items, for the first time in almost 123 years, they were just as the bodies of the Pawtucket Temple had placed them.

The circumstances were not ideal. The members of all the bodies were not able to be together for this moment. A final moment, a moment we all should have shared, not just the brothers that called Pawtucket home, the many Masons raised in this building, but all the brothers who have broken bread with us, shared stories and friendships from all the lodges in our state and country.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed so many things in our lives. We meet online, stay at home, social distance, and cover our faces with masks to protect each other. But our spirits as Freemasons carries on and it is in that spirit that I am humbled to have been a representative for my brothers, the members of Jenks Lodge

No. 24 formerly of Pawtucket Rhode Island.

A Loss of a Great Brother By: R∴W∴Charles Angell

___________________________________________________________________ Rhode Island Freemason Page 17

New Challenges for Freemasonry

Rhode Island Freemasonry Adopts New Methods to Continue to Serve the Craft

Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 8

“The world is in a much different place thanks to the COVID-19 outbreak, but that won’t stop the brothers and officers of Mount Moriah from meeting in one fashion or another. Just some of the many Freemasons from around the state (and beyond) to join us for our first “Virtual Meeting” April 3, 2020.”

Robert J. Allen Medical Equipment Distribution Center

One of our obligations as Masons is to help those in need, especially a fellow brother or his family. The Medical Equipment Distribution Center does this in ways that are truly inspiring. In this troubled economy, many are without proper medical insurance or insurance of any kind. Because of sickness or unemployment, those in need of hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers, etc. would not be able to obtain these without the help of our services! Everyone we deal with is most grateful for the services we offer, free of charge to Mason or non-Mason. We also accept donations of all types of equipment, make pickups, and deliveries. We move a lot of equipment but have one great shortage, YOU!

We are located at the second entrance gate at the Masonic-Shrine Youth Park at

116 Long Avenue in the Buttonwoods section of Warwick.

For more information contact Brother George Donahue on the Medical Equipment Center cell phone at 401-451-0184. You can also email us at gergekat@cox.net. It is important that we know you are coming so that we can schedule pickups, deliveries, and maintenance work accordingly. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Page 18 June/July/August 2020 ____________________________________________________________________

Grand Council Officers and Grand Marshal

2020-2021

DEPUTY GRAND MASTER Robert B. Ellston

SENIOR GRAND WARDEN Robert A. Palazzo

JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN Douglas J. Grant

GRAND SECRETARY Ronald P. Reed

GRAND MARSHAL Melvin E. Silverio

GRAND TREASURER Michael J. Barboza

___________________________________________________________________ Rhode Island Freemason Page 19

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite

VALLEY OF PROVIDENCE

Need a Lodge Program?

Our Scottish Rite Lodge Ambassadors will be happy to present to your membership and more especially for your non-Scottish Rite members a

PowerPoint Presentation entitled:

“Introduction to Scottish Rite Freemasonry”

Scottish Rite Freemasonry is a way for you to

continue to expand your understanding of

Masonic principles and teachings. As you

progress through the degrees, you will find an

untold wealth of knowledge. You will more deeply

explore questions raised in the blue lodge

degrees. 32° Freemasonry is often considered a

“graduate course” in Masonic teachings. Our

degrees supplement and reinforce the blue lodge

in every way. 32° Scottish Rite Freemasonry is

for those who wish to better themselves and the

world through deeper engagement with the

philosophy, values, and teachings that have

supported Freemasonry for more than 200 years.

If you are interested to host this special

presentation and explore how Scottish Rite can

benefit your Masonic journey, then give us a call.

Contact: IllPeter Iacobucci 33°

Cell: 401-413-4821

Email: ike3317@gmail.com

or the Scottish Rite Office

401-461-2480

voprov@scottishrite.necoxmail.com

to reserve a date.

Overseas Lodge No. 40

Invites You to Attend Our September 8, 2020

Monthly Communication

The Kilwinning Club of Boston will confer a mock Master Mason degree, complete with Scottish regalia, drums, and bagpipes. A generous selection of single malt Scotch whiskeys will be available during the collation to whet your pallets as well as some excellent cigars (for those who wish to further enhance the experience).

Mark your calendars and spread the word.

You will not want to miss this!

Meal reservations can be emailed to:

overseaslodge@gmail.com

Page 20 June/July/August 2020 ______________________________________________________________________

Grand Lodge of Rhode Island

222 Taunton Avenue East Providence, RI 02914-4556

Telephone: 401-435-4650 Fax: 401-435-4423

Email: grandlodge@rimasons.org rifreemason@rimasons.org Web Site: www.rimasons.org

Normal hours of operation: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

On October 11-20, 2020, Grand Master Gary Kaufman and his wife, Miriam will lead a trip to the Holy Land where we will learn about Freemasonry by experiencing its very roots. We will also have an opportunity to meet with our Israeli brethren in Lodge.

The Trip is Open to All Masons.

Tour Highlights include Old Jaffa and Masonic Legend of the Apron | Tel Aviv | Ayalon Institute | Dead Sea| Masada | Sea of Galilee |

Golan Heights | Magdala| Jerusalem | Western Wall | Bethlehem | Tower of David Museum and Night Spectacular show | Zedekiah's Cave (Solomon's Quarries) | Church of the Holy Sepulcher | Winery Tour

AND MUCH MORE!

Quote Per Person-Double Occupancy

12 – 14 full paying travelers: $2960/per person plus airfare. Rate includes 8 days touring with English speaking guide,

all accommodations, entrance fees, and most meals.

$2,000 Deposit Due at Registration Deadline – August 15, 2020