 Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Compass Lodge No. 9 – Guided by the Stars, Grounded in the Craft This summer, Compass Lodge No. 9 in Wallingford unveiled a renovation that doesn’t just refresh a room — it redefines the experience of stepping into a Masonic Lodge. Our ceiling now bears the exact night sky of May 1, 1769 — the evening our Lodge was chartered. Every star and constellation overhead was mapped from that historic moment, anchoring our work today to the Light that first shone on our Brethren nearly two and a half centuries ago. The upgrades are both symbolic and functional: Celestial Canopy – A vaulted galaxy, alive with the stars of 1769, a living representation of the Celestial Canopy of King Solomon’s Temple. Gold Trim – Columns and molding crowned in gold, symbolizing incorruptibility and the Beauty that perfects Wisdom and Strength. Dimmable LED Lighting – Full control of the Lodge’s atmosphere, from bright instruction to quiet reflection, a reminder that knowledge is revealed in degrees. Stone-Gray Flooring – A foundation that echoes the ashlars, balancing the heavens above with the labor below. The lower walls are dressed in a stone-block motif — the rough ashlar and perfect ashlar — framed by marble-like finishes that remind us the work of man must be crowned with the inspiration of Heaven. At the center of the room’s starry expanse rests a gilded medallion, a symbol of unity, perfection, and the Great Architect’s eternal design. For nearly a century, Compass Lodge has honored the tradition of electing a new Worshipful Master each year, ensuring that fresh leadership and renewed vision continue to shape our path forward. This renovation carries that same spirit — honoring our past while preparing the Lodge for generations to come. From the first step inside, the effect is unmistakable: this is not simply a meeting place — it is a Temple, re-dedicated to the Craft, where tradition meets excellence and the stars above remind us of the Light that has guided our labors since 1769. |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Very Reverend Joseph R. Krusienski June 30, 1949 — June 28, 2025 Plantsville, CT Very Reverend Joseph R. Krusienski, 75, of the Plantsville section of Southington, entered into the eternal rest of the Lord, on Saturday, June 28, 2025, with his children and close friends at his side at the HOCC after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. He was the devoted husband of Lorraine Drazba, who predeceased him just a few months ago in November 2024. He was born on June 30, 1949, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to the late John and Anna (Sopp) Krusienski. From a young age, he felt a deep calling to serve God. After graduating high school, he followed this calling by attending the Savonarola Theological Seminary of the Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC) in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1970. For 55 years, he faithfully served the PNCC, dedicating his life to his faith, his church, and his parishioners, most notably St. Casimir’s Parish in Wallingford and his beloved home parish, Holy Trinity in Plantsville. In 1985, he was elevated to Administrative Senior Priest and served as Senior of the Southwest Seniorate of the Eastern Diocese of the PNCC. His service extended beyond the pulpit, as he served as the chairman of the Eastern Diocese Clergy Conference and Chaplain at Kurs Youth Camp at Spójnia Farm and contributed to the Eastern Diocese Youth Commission, Liturgical Commission, United Choirs, and the Supreme Council of the PNCC. Affectionately known as Father Joe, his life was a reflection of unwavering devotion—to God, to the Church, and to every parishioner he served. Father Joe’s service to others also shined through his dedication to Freemasonry. He was affiliated with Compass Lodge No. 9 for over 51 years and was also an active member of Ashlar Lodge No. 332, both in Wallingford, CT. He served with distinction in numerous roles, including Worshipful Master, Chaplain and Grand Chaplain. In 1974, He was knighted in the York Rite of Freemasonry through St. Elmo Commandery No. 9 of Waterbury, CT and served as Eminent Commander. He served as Eminent Grand Prelate of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of CT and was currently serving as Associate Grande Prelate. He was also affiliated with the Connecticut College No. 17 York Rite Sovereign College, the Keystone No. 27 chapter of the Royal Arch Masons, the Hamilton No. 9 chapter of the Royal and Select Masters and The Sphinx Shriners. In 2017, he was honored with the 33rd degree of the Scottish Rite, the highest recognition in Freemasonry, for his distinguished service and lifelong dedication. This was truly an honor that he held deep within his heart. As a dutiful member of his local community, Joseph also served as a volunteer firefighter for Engine Company 2 in Plantsville, CT where he was known as “Rev Joe.” He joined the force in 1977 and served as Second Lieutenant in 1984, First Lieutenant in 1986 and Captain from 1988-1990. He was made a lifetime member in 2009. He was still serving as Chaplain for the Southington and Naugatuck fire departments. Anyone that met Father Joe saw his zest for life, his optimistic outlook and his ability to not sweat the small stuff. Despite having many distinguished roles, he was down to earth and understood people. While he did not have much time for pure leisure, he enjoyed fishing, talking cars, watching the Steelers, eating whole belly clams and grilling a good steak. He loved the lottery, and although he never won the jackpot, he surely won at living a full and complete life. While Joseph had many titles in his life, the most important ones were dad and grandpa. He is survived by his son, Jacob Krusienski and his wife Melissa of Halfmoon, NY, and his daughter, Lisa Berliner and her husband Nicholas of Southington, CT. He leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Kyrah, Brynleigh, Luke, and Zachary. He is also survived by his sister Janis Cutright and her husband Travis of Canonsburg, PA, his niece Tracie, and his two treasured cats, Tiger and Abby. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Holy Trinity and Saint Casimir's Parish, 200 Summer St., Plantsville, CT. A funeral service will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:00 am at Holy Trinity Polish National Catholic Church. Please meet directly at the church. Please use the following link to join the church service virtually (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDW6mMkc4YBkCYc1MVpSqLA). There will also be a Masonic service at Ashlar Village, 74 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford, CT at 3:00 pm. All are invited to attend. Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Final resting place will be Saint Stanislaus Cathedral Cemetery in Scranton, Pennsylvania. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com. |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Please support Br Kyle Piper in his effort to fill all the appointment slots for this Drive |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Minutes for Stated Communication Monday June 16th, 2025. Stated Communication (Hawaiian Shirt Night) The Lodge was opened in due form at 7:00 pm on the Master Mason Degree. The following officers were present: The Junior Deacon presented the colors west of the altar and the Worshipful Master led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Program for the Stated Communication
FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK Minutes
Financial
Membership
Masonic Temple Corp
New Business
Old Business
Announcements & Correspondence
Thank you!
Non- Compass
Joys and Concerns
Closing remarks were made by WB Tom Grace, who made note of the Lodge’s positive direction in first half of the year The Lodge was closed in due form at 8:20 pm, by Worshipful Master Michael P. Santillo Attest, Secretary WB Christopher J. Reilly Compass Lodge #9 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Connecticut |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. Compass Lodge No. 9 50-Year Service Award |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Honors 50-Year Member at Annual Awards Night Wallingford, CT – June 2, 2025 At its annual Awards Night held on June 2nd, Compass Lodge No. 9 paid tribute to a number of distinguished Brothers and supporters—but none more enduring in Masonic service than Worshipful Brother Gordon MacKnight Candee, who was honored with his 50-Year Masonic Service Award. |
| WB. Candee was Initiated on March 14, 1975, Passed to the degree of Fellowcraft on May 20, and Raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on June 10 of that same year. In 1982, he served as Worshipful Master of Euclid Lodge No. 135, and later as Associate Grand Marshal at Large for the Grand Lodge of Connecticut from 2013 to 2015. Beyond his formal offices, his Masonic influence has extended for decades into youth leadership—particularly through his involvement in the Sleeping Giant Chapter of DeMolay, where he served as a DeMolay Dad and mentor to many young men. A number of his former DeMolay, now Brothers themselves, were present to celebrate his milestone, standing as living testimony to his quiet guidance and example. |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Minutes for Stated Communication Monday May 1st, 2025. History Night The Lodge was opened in due form at 7:00 pm on the Fellowcraft Degree. The following officers were present: The Junior Deacon presented the colors west of the altar and the Worshipful Master led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Program for the Stated Communication
FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK Minutes
Financial
Membership
Masonic Temple Corp
Old Business
Announcements & Correspondence
Non- Compass
Sickness and Distress
Good of the Order
Closing remarks were made by RWB Jason R. Rieger The Lodge was closed in due form at 9:08 pm, by Worshipful Master Michael P. Santillo Attest, Secretary WB Christopher J. Reilly Compass Lodge #9 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Connecticut |
Compass Lodge No. 9 Wallingford, Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Compass Lodge #9 Initiates Two Entered Apprentices On Monday March 17th, after a hearty meal of corned beef and cabbage, WM Mike Santillo and the officers of Compass Lodge initiated two Entered Apprentices. Brothers Dave Lawlor & Noah Cutler were welcomed to the craft with 50 brothers in attendance. RWB F Matthew Heinrich Jr, and all past and present Grand Lodge Officers were received. The officers of Compass Lodge conducted a well-performed degree. |
Compass No. 9 Grand Lodge Of Connecticut, A.F. & A.M. |
Minutes for Stated Communication Monday, February 3rd, 2025. Stated Communication Lodge was opened in due form at 7 pm on the Master Mason Degree. The following officers were present: The Junior Deacon presented the colors west of the altar and the Worshipful Master led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Program for the Stated Communication
FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK Minutes
Financial
Masonic Temple Corp
Membership
Old Business
New Business
(Those prices do not change with difference in size) No word on Bigger sizes.
Announcements & Correspondence
Joys and Concerns
Closing remarks were made by, R.W.B. Francis (Nick) Barnes Lodge was closed in due form at 8:45 pm, by the Worshipful Master R.W.B Attest, Secretary WB Christopher J. Reilly Compass Lodge #9 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Connecticut |