Mountain Post Military Lodge No. 26 F&AM

(Prince Hall Affiliation) Colorado and Its Jurisdiction

P.O. Box 15474

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80935

 

 

Mountain Post Military Lodge History

 

On 20 June 1978, Most Worshipful Grand Master Sylvester duly seated and appointed the following Officers of Mountain Post Military Lodge No. 3 (UD):

Worshipful Master- Thomas Bennett Jr.

Senior Warden- Girard McGruder

Junior Warden- King Kelly

Treasurer- Raymond Collins

Secretary- James H. Sauls

Senior Deacon- Noble Wallace

Junior Deacon- Louis Brown

Chaplain- Fred Parker

Tyler- Floyd Booker

Marshall- George Smith

 

      Worshipful Master Bennett represented Mountain Post Military Lodge No. 3 (UD) at the 102nd Annual Grand Communication in Salt Lake City, Utah, in August 1978. On August 15 August 1978, it was recommended and voted by the Grand Body to issue a Charter to Mountain Post Military Lodge No. 26.

      Since receiving its Charter 40 years ago, Mountain Post Military Lodge No. 26 has distinguished itself in the Colorado Jurisdiction by being named "Best Lodge in the Jurisdiction" 35 times, and the Worshipful Master receiving "Worshipful Master of the Year" honors 23 times."26" continue to practice all the principles of Freemasonry, with the art of " Brotherly Love" being their guiding light.

      "26" is a dynamic, community-based institution dedicated to the enrichment of society as a whole, and in particular Fort Carson, Colorado, and surrounding communities, and the state of Colorado. Consistent with the ancient practice, rules, and orders, Mountain Post provides a vehicle whereby good men become better, through mentoring, practicing Brotherly Love, contributing to charity, and conformity to the moral and judicial laws of society, and constituted governments. Throughout the years, the Craft has initiated, instituted, or continued several programs, which reflect our vision.

      Our approach to excellence can be found in the many and varied works in which we are involved. We continue to be industrious, involving ourselves in every challenge set forth by the Grand Lodge. We sincerely believe we are the Best, and through our actions and accomplishments, we have consistently proven that point. "26" has set the standard of excellence in the Jurisdiction, and "26" will continue to raise the standard. 

The elected officers are the Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, and Secretary.

The word “Worshipful” in the Master's title comes from the Old English “Worchypful”, meaning worthy of great respect. As used in Freemasonry, it means that the Master is entitled to the esteem and respect of every member of the Lodge. He has attained this high office only after long service and demonstrated skill and ability. He is the “Master” of his Lodge and not merely a presiding officer as in other organizations. He is trusted with extensive powers; he must discharge equally great responsibilities.

Full membership in the Fraternity is acquired in three steps or degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, which correspond to the progressive grades of the workmen in medieval stonemasons’ lodges. You will take these steps or degrees at authorized meetings of the Lodge.   After each degree you will be required to commit to memory a certain portion of the ritual, to perfect your knowledge of the degree, symbolically performing a craftsman’s labors, and to ensure it remains with you all your life.

If friends have suggested that a Masonic initiation is embarrassing, or that it contains elements of buffoonery or burlesque, be assured that this is not the case. Freemasonry’s ceremonies are solemn. They are conducted in a dignified manner.

Freemasons are builders or they are nothing. The great cathedrals--the mightiest efforts man has made to create beauty in his loftiest purpose--are an expression of his belief in the Fatherhood of God. No cathedral built by Masons was erected in the spirit of “See how cheaply you can do it”. Always there was the hope of perfection.   Speculative Masons are builders too. They seek to perfect the character of men to fit them as living stones for a temple of universal harmony and brotherhood. Freemasonry is not something to enter into lightly or to put on or take off casually. As you take the degrees, you will undergo a mental and spiritual experience of imperishable value. Cherish it accordingly.

Speculative Freemasonry attracts men from all walks of life and the most diverse backgrounds and interests, to enjoy together the intellectual activity of the moral philosophy that Freemasonry teaches. While it also offers a variety of social activities that promote friendship and good fellowship, its “secrets” will be meaningful only to those Craftsmen who make some effort to study its history, symbolism, and organization using systematic reading.

However, you should always feel free to ask questions of your fellow Workmen, especially the one who sponsored your petition to the Lodge or the one who is appointed your counselor or mentor.

We welcome you to the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons. Once you have become a regular member, you will find that no matter where your destination may take you, the hand of the Masonic Brotherhood will be extended to greet you.