MASTER’S MESSAGE
Q4
My Brothers!
As we begin the last quarter of the year and my tenure as the Worshipful Master, I’ve been reflecting on the past 9 months and thinking about the impact I’ve had on the lodge and our brothers. There was so many things I was hoping to get to this year but I think the progress we’ve made on the building projects and many successful events is evident of a productive year, to say the least, and I am honored to have had the privilege to serve Washington 19 as its’ Worshipful Master.
The year is not over yet though and we still have a bunch of great events planned. Tickets are selling out fast for our annual venison table lodge, so get them while you can! Our Fellowcraft Club is putting on an Octoberfest Pizza event that I’m very excited for.
One item should be mentioned, as some of you may or may not know, per our bylaws, we have voted to raise our annual dues 10%. This was very much an overdue increase as the cost of living, inflation, and lodge expenses have increased throughout the years. This applies to the 2025 year.
Lastly, I would to thank all of the officers and brothers who have helped me navigate my way through being the Worshipful Master, most notable WB Isack and WB Roy. This year would not have been a success if it wasn’t for you both pitching in with projects, working on ritual, and helping setup/cook/promote all of our events for the year. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all and I hope WB Jonathan has been setup for another great year for our lodge!
Q1
My Brothers!
As I write my first trestle board message, I reflect on the evolution of the lodge and the positive impact working through the officer’s line, as well as the study of masonry in general has had on my life. Within the lodge I have made many meaningful friendships through our events, traveling to other lodges, and joining appendant bodies. Despite the epidemic and member attrition, the members of the lodge have continued to provide sound mentorship, brotherly love, and great Masonic ritual work. I have never found myself in a situation where a brother was not willing to provide good counsel, a kind word, or help in all aspects of life.
I am excited to start off the year with a full line of excellent officers, candidates ready to take various degrees, maintaining our traditional lodge events, and plans to reinvigorate the lodge with masonic education. I am looking forward to seeing all of you at our upcoming Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day dinners. We are already working on plans for the annual summer picnic, the Octoberfest pizza truck, and more. Look out for upcoming emails and on our social media pages for further details on the coming events.
Additionally, we are looking to fill 3 officer’s seats if there are any willing brothers to step in; Marshal, Junior Steward, and Senior Steward. Please reach out to me or one of the officers if you would like to get involved.
I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to serve Washington 19 as Master for the upcoming year. I will do my best to continue to meet and exceed, the high standards that have been set forth by the great men who have served in this role before me.
Finally, I leave you with a quote from famous author, poet, and brother, Albert Pike:
“We Masons are among the fortunate ones who are taught to meet together with others opposing convictions or competitive ideas and yet respect each other as Brothers.”
Fraternally,
WB Steven Ackley