Mt. Hood Lodge No. 32 met on March 14th at the Barberton Grange for our Stated Communication on the 1st Degree. The tables, covered in green to reflect St. Patrick’s Day being celebrated during the upcoming weekend, saw many members, visitors, and guests.
Bro. Sage B. introduced the historic site of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world. As Brothers and guests enjoyed several Thai dishes, the significance of the site was discussed starting with its construction in five phases, between 780 to 833 C.E. The impressive structure, built completely without mortar, includes an estimated 1.6 million blocks of andesite volcanic rock and decorated with 2,672 relief panels, 504 Buddha statues, and many other impressive decorations.
Interestingly, the ornate reliefs at the lower “Kamadhatu” level become more plain near the apex “Arupadhatu” level, reflecting the journey to enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy. The well-received presentation concluded with a discussion of rituals held at the site, including the practice of Pradakshina which involves circumambulating Borobudhur clockwise while ascending the various levels of the site.
After the meal, the Brothers filed into the meeting hall as MW Brother Cameron assumed the East and proceeded to start the meeting. WM Will L. was again absent from the meeting, taking the opportunity to enjoy the warm breeze of a tropical paradise to the cold and rainy Washington weather. MW Cameron graciously offered to lead the meeting for the evening. As Grand Master of Masons in Washington in 2021, his call to “Live the Legend” was instrumental in motiving Mt. Hood to review its program, and is directly related to several new experiences being enjoyed by our members.
After brief introductions, MW Cameron discussed the benefits of traveling to other lodges and experiencing the fellowship and variety of lodge experiences offered. He also noted the high level of fellowship and Masonry being offered to men in District 19.
During Joy, Sickness, and Distress, Brothers reported major educational milestones, degrees achieved, and starting new opportunities. Others gave updates about ongoing family matters.
Brother Randy R., the recipient of our February Stated meeting Random Act of Kindness (RAK) Funds, reported meeting a distressed woman who had been the victim of a recent car burglary. Needing assistance with repairing a broken window, Brother Randy gladly donated the funds to assist with needed repairs. RAK funds from the evening were then given to Brother Cole C., with the usual charge.
After routine communications and bills were addressed, two petitions were read. One was for a previous member of Mt. Hood who, now living in Kentucky, desired to reestablish his membership in the Fraternity to join a local lodge where he now lived. Mr. Cory P., petitioning to receive the degrees of Masonry, both had their petitions read and found Bright in the East. Preparations are now underway to initiate Mr. Cory on April 5th.
VW David E., sitting as Senior Warden for the evening, led off reports of Proficiency. Brother Mark P has made excellent progress towards his proficiency as a Master Mason and will be giving a more in-depth report at our April Stated Meeting. Brother Ian is making good progress as well and is looking forward to his upcoming trip to Europe as a Master Mason. Brother Randy R. has made impressive progress as an Entered Apprentice and is preparing to be Passed to the Second Degree of Freemasonry on March 28th. Br. Cole and Br. Joey are continuing their Entered Apprentice studies and were prepared to demonstrate a part of their work this evening.
Brother Joey provided an engaging presentation of the Entered Apprentice Tracing Board, noting several symbols and their meanings. Brother Cole answered several questions from the New Candidate Educational Program and received ‘extra points’ for answering question #32, which tied nicely to our meal education.
Brother Justin, our Junior Deacon, then rose to give our Practical Proficiency lesson for the evening. Noting the upcoming election season, he admonished us to stay prudent in our political conversations, to remember our charge as Masons, and to act prudently to maintain the spotless condition of our apron.
“In Case You Missed It” reflected the considerable number of events that have occurred over the past few weeks. Brother Justin reported on our very successful February 5th Thursday Fun Night held at Sky Zone. WM Tim H. reported on Washington Lodge No. 4’s successful Burns Night, a highlight of the Masonic calendar in District 19, as well as the recent Passing of two Fellowcrafts, Brothers Austin and Joseph. In addition, North Bank Lodge No. 182 recently Initiated Brother Tyler B. into our Fraternity.
Of special note, two Masonic Funerals were reported. Service for WB Frank Moxley of North Bank Lodge No. 182 was conducted by WM Nate M. and WB Jack Kelley of Silver Star No. 286 was conducted by VW Mark S. Both were well attended and reflected our appreciation for these two brothers.
Spirits were lifted as WB Todd E rose to talk about… spirits. The Marshall’s bottle for the evening was Jameson Black Label. WB Todd discussed Jameson Whiskey and how the creator influenced the work/life balance of his employees. Noting his Scottish heritage, Brother Jameson became famous for his Irish whiskey. The history of the Bow Street Distillery was also highlighted.
As the evening drew to a close, MW Cameron B. expertly closed our Lodge, bringing our happy meeting to an end, with peace and harmony prevailing.