T E X A S

A Word from the Grand Master | Page 3

Early Freemasonry in Louisiana | Page 13

Photo Contest Winners | Page 19

FREEMASONOfficial Publication of The Grand Lodge of Texas

Spring 2019

2019 Grand Master’s Blue Envelope Appeal

Brethren,

This year, I am partnering with the Texas Masonic Charities Foundation through my “Blue Envelope” appeal to help supplement the availability of matching funds to the Masonic Lodges of Texas. Funds from this appeal will be dedicated to providing scholarships to deserving students in their communities. Unlike some previous “Blue Envelope” campaigns, there will be no Third-Party administering the program. Consequently, 100% of the donations will be directed to The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund for distribution to qualifying Lodges.

The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation, Inc. a 501(c) (3) non-profit corporation, is the primary charitable organization affiliated with the Grand Lodge of Texas and works with local Masonic Lodges to help distribute funds.

TMCF continues a program started in 2007 which allows businesses and individuals to support local Lodge programs with tax-deductible contributions to TMCF that are designated to specific charities.

The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation is the vehicle that local lodges can use today to compound their efforts at the local level to continue our great fraternity’s tradition of charity.

In 2019 as your Grand Master I am expressing my faith in you by appealing to you directly, without a third-party vendor that many times retains a major portion for administration.

Because the 2019 funds are dedicated to the 501(c) (3) Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund, your contribution is deemed to be tax-deductible.

Their motto of Faith, Hope, and Charity, and their concept of the local Blue Lodge being the focal point of Masonic Charity, falls squarely in line with my message of “Lead by Example”.

Please consider mailing a gift of support to help keep the tradition of Texas Masonic Charity going.

May God bless each of you,

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Terry W. Stogner Grand Master of Masons in Texas

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YES! Grand Master, I will step up and be counted among the Brothers of Texas who, along with you, support the Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund. Name:________________________________________ ID Number: _________________________

Phone:________________ Address: ___________________________________________________

City________________________________, State______________ Zip: _______________________

I can help by enclosing □$50 □$100 □$500 □ Other $_______ Make check payable to: TMCF

Email address _________________________________ Online contributions @ txmcf.org click donate

Texas Masonic Charities Foundation 1985 Ranch Road 2323 Llano, TX 78643 EIN 37-1501938 www.txcmf.org

2 3The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

CONTENTS

A WORD FROM THE

Grand Master

MESSAGESPRING 2019

MESSAGE3 Grand Master

7 Deputy Grand Master and Grand Junior Warden

BIOS4 Grand Master

8 Grand Junior Warden

GRAND LODGE6 2019 Grand Lodge Session

9 Homecoming Banquet

10 Blue Envelope Appeal

11 Resolutions and Recommendations Results

17 Scottish Rite of Texas

18 Grand Lodge Committees

19 Photo Contest Winners

The Texas Freemason Magazine is an official publication of the Grand Lodge of Texas A. F. & A. M. It is published four times a year for the members of Texas Lodges and subscribers. Spring and winter issues are available in print. Summer and fall issues are available in PDF format at https://grandlodgeoftexas.org. Opinions expressed by the Editors and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect official positions of the Grand Lodge of Texas Copyright 2019, by the Trustees of the Grand Lodge of Texas. All rights reserved.

Publisher The Trustees of The Grand Lodge of Texas

Editors Ken Curry, Grand Junior Warden. Assisted by the Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education and Service

The Texas Freemason Magazine encourages submission of articles and photographs of general interest to Masons in Texas, reserving the right to edit and use the articles and pictures as needs and policies dictate.

News and articles from around the state will continue to be published in a web-based format on the Grand Lodge of Texas website The Grand Lodge website is accessible at http://www.grandlodgeoftexas.org

Please continue to send your articles and Lodge events and news to the Editors of The Texas Freemason Magazine.

The preferred method of submission is via email with an attached Microsoft Word document. Pictures should be separately sub-mitted in JPEG format to TexasFreemason@grandsecretaryoftx.org. If you do not have email, submissions may be sent to the Grand Lodge of Texas, Attn.: The Editor of The Texas Freemason Magazine, PO Box 446, Waco, Texas 76703. All materials become property of the magazine and cannot be returned.

Subscriptions $12.50 per year U.S. and Canada, $31.25 for three years; $20.00 per year in foreign countries, $50.00 for three years

Permission to Reprint Permission to reprint original articles appearing in The Texas Mason Magazine is granted to all recognized Masonic publications, provided that credit is given to the author and attribution to The Texas Freemason Magazine.

Archives https://grandlodgeoftexas.org/texas-mason-magazine- archives/

Grand Lodge Session Day 3Courtesy of Jeff Haven

FEATURE13 Early Freemasonry in Louisiana

EDUCATION AND COMMITMENT20 Texas Lodge of Research

20 Spotlight

21 Masonic Children and Family Services

22 Texas Masonic Retirement Center

IN EVERY ISSUE16 The Profound Pontifications of Brother John Deacon

17 A Look Back

23 Merchandise Order Form

ON THE COVER 2019 Grand Master of Masons in Texas, Terry W. Stogner

good man and making him better is still the best way of preserving our fraternity and in doing so make the world around us a better place to live. The process of making new members begins with our ritual and the process of teaching the catechism. The teaching of these lessons and other Masonic ideals builds character and friendships which last forever (true Brotherly love).

In many cases we are not adequately providing instruction to our new Candidates. As a result, they are not learning the true philosophy of

My Dear Brethren,

I cannot adequately express my gratitude to you for your confidence in electing me as your Grand Master. Many notable men have served as the Grand Master of Texas in the past. To be numbered among them is the highlight of my Masonic career. Thank you for this great honor.

Masonry is the greatest fraternity that has ever existed, and in today’s world, we face many challenges. Society is not what it once was, and as a result, our Masonic teachings and ideals seem to be slipping away. The Masonic philosophy of taking a

Freemasonry. It is my hope and prayer that you and I can rekindle the original concept of teaching Masonry and reverse this trend. As we work together and lead by example, we can and will make Masonry in Texas shine in 2019.

God bless each of you and may God bless America,

Terry W. Stogner Grand Master 2019

4 5The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

GRAND LODGEGRAND LODGE

Terry Wayne Stogner, the son and only child of Wallace and Juanema Eileen Stogner, was born on July 13, 1958, in Lamesa, Texas. Terry spent his youthful days growing up in Lamesa, Texas, where he attended schools in the Lamesa Independent School District. He graduated from Lamesa High School in 1977. Even before graduating from high school, Terry began furthering his education, taking Real Estate courses at Midland College in Midland, Texas.

Terry married the love of his life, Jackie Nell Cave, on July 24, 1979. Jackie graduated from Flower Grove High School and continued her education at Howard Payne University, where she graduated with a BME Degree in music. After graduation she taught music in Ozona and Lamesa Elementary Schools. She continued to further her education at West Texas State University and taught school for 8 years until she retired and became secretary of the several Stogner businesses. Jackie is very active the Order of Eastern Star, being a member since 1990. She served as Worthy Matron of her Chapter in 1994 and has served as organist of her

Chapter and the Grand Chapter of Texas on several occasions. Jackie enjoys several hobbies other than playing the piano including ham radio, flying Terry’s airplane, hunting, fishing and traveling. Terry and Jackie have been active members in the Second Baptist Church in Lamesa since 1989.

Terry and Jackie are the proud parents of a son, Charles Walter Stogner, and a daughter, Lisa Janell Stogner Collins. They are blessed with four grandchildren; Emerie Raelynn Stogner, Kaesan Brice Stogner, Ellie Grace Stogner, and Gunner Hugh Collins. Charles resides in Graham, Texas with his wife Rachael, and the three Stogner grandchildren. Charlie holds an Associate of Arts Degree from Texas State Technical College and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Additionally, he is currently employed as Operations Manager at Ibederola Renewables, a wind energy generation facility. Charlie is a member of Breckenridge Lodge No. 492 and is also a plural member of Milam Lodge No. 11. Lisa and her husband Chuck reside on a ranch near Brownwood, Texas where Chuck is in the ranching business. Lisa holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a minor in Bible. She received her master’s degree in Business in 2014 and is currently employed as an Administration Assistant in Development Services for the city of Brownwood, Texas.

Shortly after graduation from high school, Terry started his first business. In 1978, he established Stogner Pumping Service, Inc., an oil and gas well pumping service and consulting firm and serves as President. Not being

satisfied with just one business, he acquired the Lamesa Radio Paging Service, an RCC Radio Common Carrier Tower and Repeater Leasing service in 1981, and he established Mr. T’s Rental Storage in 1990. Terry is also President/CEO of Associate Water Systems, LLC, which he established in 1991, and he is CEO of Sandy Creek Operations, Inc., an independent oil and gas operation, which he launched in 2003. He is also President/CEO of Rengots, Inc., a successful real estate holding sales and leasing company, which he formed in 2003. Terry has not only used his mechanical and technical skills to establish and grow his various enterprises, he has developed into a very successful manager and businessman. Since their marriage in 1979, Jackie has been an integral part of the businesses; serving as bookkeeper and confidant. Terry’s several companies’ employees two field workers and a staff member (his wife, Jackie).

Terry’s hobbies include fishing, hunting, gun collecting, rebuilding boats, outboard motors and recreational vehicles. Terry is also a private pilot and holds membership in the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and holds an FAA Rating as Private Pilot, Single Engine, Land endorsement. Terry is also an amateur radio operator and is a member of the Amateur Relay Radio League and has a General Class Federal Communications Commission rating. He served as the net manager for the Northwest Texas Emergency Network for 3 years. He also enjoys riding a motorcycle on occasion.

Terry Wayne Stogner began his Masonic career in Lamesa Lodge No. 909, with the submission of his

petition in 1989. He was initiated an Entered Apprentice Mason on September 9, 1989, passed to the Degree of Fellowcraft on January 23, 1990, and raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on February 27, 1990. Terry served Lamesa Lodge in several appointive and elective offices and was elected and served as its Worshipful Master in 1995-96. Lamesa Lodge presented him with the Golden Trowel Award in 1992. Terry currently holds membership in fourteen Texas Masonic Lodges including Tranquility Lodge No. 2000, a special humanitarian Lodge, and is an Endowed Member in all of them. He has also served as Worshipful Master in the following Lodges: Staked Plains Lodge No. 598 in 2001-02, Coahoma Lodge No. 992 in 2002-03, and Milam Lodge No. 11 in 2003-04. He also served as Treasurer of Milam Lodge No. 11 for 3 years. He received his 25-Year Service award from Tabernacle Lodge No. 1195. Terry has held a Class A Certificate in the Masonic esoteric work of Texas since 1993 and received a Life Esoteric Certificate in 2009.

Terry served as District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District No. 80 in 1997, under Grand Master Joe Regian, and served as District Deputy Grand Master At-Large in 2013. He was a District Masonic Relations Officer for District No. 80 in 1997-1998, under Grand Master Harry G. Cunningham. He has served the Grand Lodge of Texas as a District Instructor since his appointment in 2002, a position he currently holds. He is also an active member of the Masters, Wardens, and Secretaries Association of the 80th Masonic District.

His service to The Grand Lodge of Texas has also included the Committee on Petitions and Returns of Lodges UD from 2003 through 2005, and the

Committee on Special Assignments in 2011-2012. Terry was elected to the Grand Lodge Committee on Work in 2005, and he worked diligently on that Committee, serving twice as Chairman. He continued his service on that committee until elected Grand Junior Warden in 2015. Brother Stogner has served on Planning Teams for Grand Masters T. E. “Gene” Carnes in 2011 and Walter W. Rogers in 2013. He is also a member of the Sam Houston Hall of Fame, which benefits the Grand Lodge Library and Museum.

Terry received his York Rite Degrees in Lamesa Chapter No. 463, in 1990, and presided as Most Excellent High Priest in Big Spring Chapter No. 178 in 1999, where he is also an Endowed Member. He served as District Deputy Grand High Priest of the 33rd Capitular District in 2011. His current membership is in Keystone Chapter No. 174 in Midland. He was greeted a Royal and Select Master in Lamesa Council No. 378 in 1990, and is currently affiliated with Big Spring Council No. 117, where he is an Endowed Member. He also served as Thrice Illustrious Master of Big Spring Council in 1999 and received the Order of the Silver Trowel in 2005. Terry served as District Deputy Grand Master in the 33rd Cryptic District in 2010 and holds current membership in Keystone Council No. 112.

Terry was created a Sir Knight in Big Spring Commandery No. 31, in 1991, and presently holds membership in Midland Commandery No. 84, Knights Templar, where he is an endowed member. He also holds membership in the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, Southeast Texas College No. 90 in Port Arthur.

He received The Red Cross of Constan-tine in Crusader Conclave in 2018.

Terry is a 32° Degree Scottish Rite Mason, in the Valley of Lubbock, where he recieved his degrees in 1990. He was elected and received the investiture of the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor in 2017. He is an Endowed Member in the Lubbock Valley and a plural member of the Fort Worth Scottish Rite Valley.

His membership in the Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine is in Suez Temple, in San Angelo.

Terry was inducted into the Texas College of Societas Rosicruciana Civitatibus Foederatis (S.R.I.C.F.) No. 138 in March 2012.

He is an Endowed Member and Past Worthy Patron in Big Spring Chapter No. 67, Order of the Eastern Star.

Terry was elected to the office of Grand Junior Warden on December 5, 2015; Grand Senior Warden on January 21, 2017; Deputy Grand Master on January 20, 2019; and the Masons of Texas elevated him to the highest office within their power on January 19, 2020.

Grand Master Terry Wayne Stogner is experienced in both business and Masonic leadership, and works with driving determination, integrity, and steadfast dedication to both. He is a committed and dedicated Mason—with a sincere desire to serve the Masons of Texas and The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas. His enthusiastic, dedication, study, practice, and love of the Fraternity of Freemasonry is one of a true Mason—from the heart.

BIOGRAPHY OF THE

Grand Master

6 7The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

A WORD FROM THE

Deputy Grand Master

A WORD FROM THE

Grand Junior Warden

GRAND LODGEGRAND LODGE

Freemasonry has a rich history that precedes the formation of the Grand Lodge of Texas and Texas statehood. We all take pride in that history and we all should endeavor to do our part to help celebrate the events that helped form Texas Masonry as we know it and as all Texans should know it. Plan to attend our Historical Observances, let your friends know and tell your local media.

There is an excitement growing in Texas Freemasonry! Can you feel it? Or better yet…are you a part of it? We are truly blessed, as the Masons of Texas, to travel the vast expanses of our state and find true and lasting friendship from the panhandle to the coast and from the plains to the Valley. This incredible

Each year the Grand Lodge holds observances at the San Jacinto Memorial in Houston, the Alamo in San Antonio, the Fannin Memorial in Goliad, the Masonic Oak in Brazoria and the Come and Take It Celebration in Gonzales. At all of these Texas locations, major events happened during the formative years of our Republic and State, and Masons played a significant role in each with many being led by Masons.

As Texas Freemasons, we should all commit to attending each of these events at least once and encourage others to attend as well. Everyone that has attended goes away with a higher respect and pride knowing the importance and sacrifices our fraternity played in winning its independence. These are key parts of the fabric that make Texas uniquely what it is. We all owe a debt of gratitude to our Freemason Brothers who came before us.

All of these observances deserve your support and participation, and I especially recommend you each make the pilgrimage to the Masonic Oak. I am in awe each year I attend, knowing

brotherhood is supported by a profound spirituality and a deep esoteric education, which culminates in a one of a kind experience, that no other society or organization can provide. Certainly our noble craft is as necessary today as it has ever been and we cannot help but think that we are on the verge of building again.

There are some who would say, since we no longer build great structures of marble and stone, that we are in decline. And I’ll be the first to admit that there are challenges on the horizon, but what entity is without them? We, your trustees, are diligently working together to set our great Fraternity on the correct course but we are aware that it takes each of us and each of you, working industriously in our Lodges to fill the sails of opportunity and deliver us to our desired destination!

And so the Fraternity is where it began, and where it has always been, in the hands of

it is the birthplace of Texas Freemasonry. This year’s schedule is:

February 9, 2019 San Jacinto Observance – Houston

March 2, 2019 Alamo Observance – San Antonio

March 23, 2019 Fannin Memorial – Goliad

May 19, 2019 Masonic Oak Pilgrimage – Brazoria

October 5, 2019 Come and Take It – Gonzales

I look forward to seeing you there. Bring a friend.

Fraternally,

Paul D. Underwood 2019 Deputy Grand Master

the individual Mason. We have seen the excitement of two or three Brothers fan the smoking embers and stoke a fledgling fire into a billowing success! This is no isolated event, but the spark has been replicated and is beginning to catch fire. This Light added to coming Light has me convinced that we are ready to build again! Maybe not in Stone and timber like our ancestors, or even brick and mortar like our predecessors, but to erect a lasting monument in the hearts of man and adorn it with the tenets of our Order.

The only thing greater than the challenges we face in this Fraternity is our opportunity! Let’s unite in building tomorrow!

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Bradley S. Billings 2019 Grand Junior Warden

2019 Grand Lodge Session

Traditionally, Grand Annual Communications are largely reflective of the Grand Master, this year was no exception. This Grand Annual Communication can best be described as collegial. The relaxed approach by Grand Master Chapman to the formal duties was effective and provided for the orderly dispatch of business while maintaining an engaging atmosphere.

If you missed the meeting, you missed a wonderful session of Masonic fellowship and work. This is not to say there were not issues that were debated and debated and debated, or elections that were anything less than epic in terms of outcome. This session did provide, if you can believe it, comic relief when two Past Grand Masters objected to the withdrawal of a resolution by the proposer, then moved for adoption and ask for a no vote while trying to decide which of them would be recorded in the minutes as moving for adoption of something neither wanted to pass. It was an opportunity for the Grand Lodge members and representatives to see how Grand Lodge law and parliamentary procedure actually work and can be effective, when properly handled. Bob Glasgow, who is the unseen Maestro, orchestrated the process flawlessly.

There were the usual Opening Ceremo-nies, presentations by the City of Waco, reception of distinguished guests and other formalities. Several awards were presented such as Masonic Service Awards, Photography Contest Winners, Vanguard Lodge Awards (more than seventy lodges this year), and of course the coveted Masonic Family Day Barbeque Cook-off winner.

On the second day, the real work started with reports from the Grand Master, Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and several affiliated bodies, whose reports were received by the Grand Lodge including the Grand Lodge Library and Museum, Texas Masonic Charities Foundation, Square and Compasses Holdings and the Masonic Youth Foundation. The affiliated bodies were reporting to the Grand Lodge as entities of their own so their reports were received, not adopted as are the other reports.

On Thursday night, Grand Master Chapman held his Banquet where he presented the W.B and Brandon Carrell Humanitarian Award, the William M. Beck Award and Awarded Sam Houston medals. The Carrell award was

presented to Dr. Billy Graff. The Beck award was presented to Chance Chapman and Sam Houston medals were awarded to Alan Lazor and Larry Winkle.

The elections were set of 10:00 a.m. on Saturday with installation to be at 2:00 p.m. The work of the 2019 Grand Lodge session was largely completed by the 10:00 a.m. time and elections were held. The election of Grand Junior Warden went three rounds and was in the end separated by about sixty votes. The electronic voting capability once again more than proved its worth by cutting the time down to less than what one round of hand-ballots would have been in years past. It is difficult to see Brethren who put themselves out there not be elected, but as the Installation Ceremony says, “some must of necessity rule and teach, while others must, of course learn to submit and obey”. It is a testament to Masonic etiquette and

decorum when this transition takes place so fluidly. We would hope that those who were not elected continue to serve this Grand Lodge in other capacities or possi-bly make themselves available again.

Congratulations are in order for M. W. Terry L Stogner on his election as Grand Master of Masons in Texas, R. W. Paul D. Underwood as Deputy Grand Master; R. W. Kenneth C. Curry as Grand Senior Warden, and R. W. Bradley S. Billings as Grand Junior Warden. A complete listing of other election results is provided else-where in this issue.

This was a different Grand Lodge session because of who was not there. This was the first year in anyone’s memory that PGM Leonard Harvey was not in attendance, the first year PGM David Dibrell was not in attendance, and the first time in more than 50 years the person making a record of all the activities was not present, John Edward Cline who quietly served 50 years as the recorder of each grand session. These three men, were sorely missed and will continue to be missed. Both the PGM’s passed before the session and Brother Cline was hospitalized at the time of the Communication.

Congratulations to now R. W. Tommy F Chapman and his lady Kathy for a great year, their tireless travels and sacrifices for the Masons of Texas. Enjoy your next adventures and realize your work was good and square.

2019Grand Master’sHomecoming

Banquet

6 pm - Cash Bar7 pm Dinner

Music by Michael Coté

Band

Special benefit for theTexas Masonic

Charities FoundationLive Auction - Raffle - Special Drawings

Dinner - Entertainment - Dancing

Saturday, April 27th, 2019 - Abilene Convention Center1100 N. 6th St. Abilene, TX 79601

$6000Each

Available at Grand Master’s Conferences or online at: txmcf.org/banquet

Seating is Limitied Please order before April 1.

“Puttin on the Dog West Texas Style!”

Rooms available at:(Specify Grand Lodge of TX)MCM Elegante Suites4250 Ridgemont Dr.325-690-4136 &Hilton Garden Inn4449 Ridgemont Dr.325-690-6432

Tickets by mail at:GMHBBox 6154Abilene, TX 79608Specify Beef or ChickenTickets paid by mail will be held at the door. Call 325-439-1282 for more info.

8 9The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

GRAND LODGE

RW Billings was born 2 July 1983 to Lee and Pam Billings and was raised with his older sister TJ in the small West Texas town of Seagraves. After High School he attended Texas Tech University where he graduated in 2006 with a degree in Finance, Economics and International Business. While attending TTU, Brad met his future wife Brittany and they are currently expecting their first child, a baby boy, in April. Brad currently works for Amarin Pharmaceuticals and has previously worked in the banking and investment industries.

The road to Grand Junior Warden began in 2006 when Brad joined Trinity Valley Lodge No. 1048 in Dallas, TX. He would go on to serve the Lodge as its Centennial Master in 2012 and to join Northern Star Lodge No. 377, Grapevine Lodge No. 288, Claud L. Austin Lodge No. 1450, Sweet Home Lodge No. 576 and Tranquility Lodge No. 2000. An advocate for Masonic History Brad became a Full Member of Texas Lodge of Research in 2009 and went on to serve as Wor-shipful Master in 2015. He has pre-

sented three papers to date including “The Beginnings of the Texas Lodge of Research,” “The Heraldry of Texas Lodge of Research,” and the “Lubbock Study Committee”.

He began his service to the Grand Lodge of Texas in 2014 when he was appointed to the Purposes and Policies Committee and most recently, in 2018, served as the Vice-Chairman. In 2015 he served as Grand Junior Steward and in 2017 as DDGM for Masonic District No. 64-B. He also served on the Special Assignments Committee and Grand Masters Planning team in 2018 for Grand Master Chapman. Brad has worked on several projects with the Masonic Education and Service Committee including the Between Friends videos in 2014, the Brotherhood of Light program in 2015, the Rewrite of Masonry and the Mason in 2016 and most recently serving as District Education Officer for District 14-E in 2018. A strong believer in the Esoteric Work RW Billings got a ‘B’ Certificate months after becoming a Master Mason and has held a certificate ever since, currently in his 7th year as an ‘A’ Certificate holder. He credits Brother Jim Johnston and PGMs Leonard Harvey and Reese Harrison, along with countless other Brothers who have helped him along the way, for the position he now holds.

Your GJW joined the York Rite in 2007 and is an active member of Love Field Chapter and Council, a Knight of the York Cross of Honor and has served as a District Deputy, a Grand Officer and on several Grand Committees for both the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Texas and the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Texas. He served as Commander of

Alexander C. Garrett Commandery No. 103 in 2011 and has served the Grand Commandery of Texas as Chairman of the Finance Committee.

In Scottish Rite, he is the current Venerable Master of the Fort Worth Valley Lodge of Perfection, has attained the rank of 32° KCCH, is a past Worthy Master of the Dallas Valley Knights of Saint Andrew, and is a valued member of multiple degree teams in both the Dallas and Fort Worth Valleys.

He is also a Past President of the 14th District MWSA, President of the Dallas Masonic Service Bureau Noble of Hella Shrine, and a member of The Order of High Priesthood, The Order of the Silver Trowel, The Scottish Rite Research Society, Grand Arcanum Council No. 447 of the Allied Masonic Degrees, Charter Member of the Masonic Society, Lyle Cross York Rite College No. 147, Rose Council of Sharon No. 49 Knight Masons, member of St. Thomas of Acon, Royal Order of Scotland, The Operatives, The Grand College of Rites, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests and Texas College of Masonic Rosicrucians.

BIOGRAPHY OF THE

Grand Junior Warden

2019 Grand Master’s Blue Envelope Appeal

Brethren,

This year, I am partnering with the Texas Masonic Charities Foundation through my “Blue Envelope” appeal to help supplement the availability of matching funds to the Masonic Lodges of Texas. Funds from this appeal will be dedicated to providing scholarships to deserving students in their communities. Unlike some previous “Blue Envelope” campaigns, there will be no Third-Party administering the program. Consequently, 100% of the donations will be directed to The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund for distribution to qualifying Lodges.

The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation, Inc. a 501(c) (3) non-profit corporation, is the primary charitable organization affiliated with the Grand Lodge of Texas and works with local Masonic Lodges to help distribute funds.

TMCF continues a program started in 2007 which allows businesses and individuals to support local Lodge programs with tax-deductible contributions to TMCF that are designated to specific charities.

The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation is the vehicle that local lodges can use today to compound their efforts at the local level to continue our great fraternity’s tradition of charity.

In 2019 as your Grand Master I am expressing my faith in you by appealing to you directly, without a third-party vendor that many times retains a major portion for administration.

Because the 2019 funds are dedicated to the 501(c) (3) Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund, your contribution is deemed to be tax-deductible.

Their motto of Faith, Hope, and Charity, and their concept of the local Blue Lodge being the focal point of Masonic Charity, falls squarely in line with my message of “Lead by Example”.

Please consider mailing a gift of support to help keep the tradition of Texas Masonic Charity going.

May God bless each of you,

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Terry W. Stogner Grand Master of Masons in Texas

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YES! Grand Master, I will step up and be counted among the Brothers of Texas who, along with you, support the Texas Masonic Charities Foundation Scholarship Fund. Name:________________________________________ ID Number: _________________________

Phone:________________ Address: ___________________________________________________

City________________________________, State______________ Zip: _______________________

I can help by enclosing □$50 □$100 □$500 □ Other $_______ Make check payable to: TMCF

Email address _________________________________ Online contributions @ txmcf.org click donate

Texas Masonic Charities Foundation 1985 Ranch Road 2323 Llano, TX 78643 EIN 37-1501938 www.txcmf.org

10 The Grand Lodge of Texas 11Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

GRAND LODGE

2019 Resolutions and Recommendations ResultsResolution # 1Change the name of Scyene Lodge # 295 to Leonard P. Harvey Daylight Lodge – Scyene Lodge. Leonard P. Harvey – Scyene Daylight Lodge No. 295 Adopted As Amended

Resolution # 2Amend Art. 276-a to read He must hold at the time of his election a current Class A, B, or C teaching certificate issued by the C. O. W. Not Adopted

Resolution # 3Amend Art. 318-a to raise the price of the endowment from $500.00 to $700.00. Not Adopted

Resolution # 4Amend Art. 240 to permit Lodges to appear in public at certain events without getting dispensation from the Grand Lodge. Adopted As Amended

Resolution # 5Amend Art. 225 to include the Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill. Adopted

Resolution # 6Amend Art. 311 to allow a late fee for unpaid dues. Withdrawn

Resolution # 7Amend Art. IV, Section 1 of the Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas to allow District Deputy Grand Masters after their term to have the title of Past District Deputy Grand Master. Withdrawn

Resolution # 8Change the name of Ft. Hancock Lodge # 1297 to Fort Hancock – Fort Bliss Lodge # 1297. Adopted

Resolution # 9Amend Art. lV, Section 8. No new or proposed realignment of Masonic Districts within this Grand Jurisdiction shall be made without the vote of the membership of this Grand Lodge. Withdrawn

Resolution # 10Add a new Article with 337 and 338 to preserve Lodge Minutes. Withdrawn

Resolution # 11Amend Art. 339-b to allow the names and positions of the officers of the MW&SA to be recorded as a part of their permanent Masonic Record. Not Adopted

Resolution # 12Amend the Texas Monitor of the Lodge to include and upon it we obligate the Mason in lieu of the asterisks. Not Adopted

Resolution # 13Amend Art. 276-a prior to his appointment, the Lodge Counselor shall have attended the Grand Lodge of Texas Officers Leadership Program. Not Adopted

Resolution # 14Add a new paragraph to Art. 129. Any presentation, educational program of ancient history or the symbolism about freemasonry shall be first presented to the Committee on Work for approval. Not Adopted

Resolution # 15That the Committee on Work is required to develop an alternate opening and closing ritual to allow for only the minimum number of masons as constitute a quorum for each Lodge MM, FC, EA. Not Adopted

Resolution # 16That the Committee on Work be required to develop a ritual that will allow the Fellowcraft lecture to be given from the East or on the lodge room floor. Adopted As Amended

Resolution # 17Amend Art. 393, 402 and forms 26, 28 and 31 referring to maims or physical defects. Adopted As Amended

Resolution # 18Amend several Articles and forms to reflect Grand Masters Recommendation No. 1, 2015. Art. 507,614, 650, 659 and 660. Masonic Forms No. 2, 26, 31 and 79. Withdrawn

Resolution # 19That the wording at the end of the Masters lecture be changed to include “and the apron presentation.” Adopted

Grand Master’s Recommendation No. 1

Concerning Title V of the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas

WHEREAS, in all times and in places throughout the world where Masons are found, our Brethren have been distinguished from the general population by their character and by the uprightness of their behavior; and

WHEREAS, the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas regulates the practice of Freemasonry within its territorial jurisdiction; and

WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge of Texas has adopted laws and ordinances through which it carries out its regulatory function with regard to the behavior of Masons and has codified such laws and ordinances as Title V of the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas; and

WHEREAS, in my capacity as Grand Master I have observed that the current Title V is poorly understood by the Brethren and is unduly difficult to administer in practice; and

WHEREAS, owing to the deficiencies in the current Title V, important matters have in some cases languished, and in others, American constitutional notions of due process to which all Texas Masons subscribe and for which the blood and treasure of generations have been sacrificed, have been imperiled;

IT IS THEREFORE, my recommendation to the members and lodges of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas that Title V of the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas be revised so as to provide for a modern and workable code of law and procedure which is capable of being well understood by the Brethren and operate efficiently so as to promptly and fairly adjudicate all claims and charges of misbehavior by the Masons of Texas. I recommend that a special committee composed of well informed and knowledgeable brethren well versed in The Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas be appointed by the Grand Master to study the current Title V and that such special committee report to the members and lodges of this Grand Lodge at the next Grand

Annual Communication on those changes and amendments to the current Title V which will address the deficiencies which have been identified consistent with American notions of constitutional due process. Adopted

Newly Elected Officers and Committee Members

Bradley S. Billings – Grand Junior Warden

W. Keith Reynolds – Committee on Work

William Scott Leopold – Grand Lodge Library and Museum

Charles B. Cockrell – Masonic Home and School

FEATURE

12 13The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

Most Worshipful Terry W. Stogner

Grand Master

Right Worshipful Paul D. Underwood

Deputy Grand Master

Right Worshipful Paul D. Underwood

Grand Senior Warden

Right Worshipful Bradley S. Billings

Grand Junior Warden

Right Worshipful Tommy W. Ellison

Grand Treasurer

Right Worshipful Orville L. O’Neill

Grand Secretary

Right Worshipful Steven R. Pepper

Grand Chaplain

Right Worshipful Bradley E. Kohanke

Grand Orator

Right Worshipful J. W. Irick

Grand Marshal

Worshipful Mickey R. Sargent

Grand Senior Deacon

Worshipful Eric D. Stuyvesant

Grand Junior Deacon

Worshipful Richard W. Gaiser

Grand Senior Steward

Worshipful Raul J. Scully

Grand Junior Steward

Worshipful Bruce W. Hammond

Grand Pursuivant

Worshipful Carl B. Chalfant

Grand Musician

Worshipful Raymond D. Withrow, Jr.

Grand Photographer

Worshipful Charles A. Murchison

Grand Tiler

Early Freemasonry in LousiaanaBy Pierre G. “Pete” Normand, Jr. Past Master and Fellow Texas Lodge of Research

The three lodges in Texas that formed the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas all held charters from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, F. & A.M., created at New Orleans in April 1812. For that reason, it is important for Texas Masons to understand something of the history of early Freemasonry in Louisiana.

In 1751, several Freemasons in New Orleans formed a lodge and requested a warrant or charter from the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of France at Paris. The Grand Master was Louis de Bourbon-Condé, a grandson of King Louis XIV. However, at that time, Freemasonry in Paris was in a state of dormancy, but was thriving in places like Bordeaux, the port city on the west coast of France. The New Orleans brethren, unwilling to wait for what they feared might be a disappointing response from the Grand Master at Paris, sent a delegation to the Caribbean island of Martinique to visit the lodge there – Loge Parfaite Union at St. Pierre. At that time, it was not uncommon for lodges to issue warrants or charters allowing other lodges to operate under the mother lodge’s charter. The delegation returned with a charter addressed to Loge de La Parfaite Harmonie of New Orleans, dated July 16, 1752. By April 1756, the lodge at New Orleans, La Parfaite Harmonie, had 30 members, including five who possessed the high degree of Elect Master.

Masonic high-degrees, in the form of Ecossais (or Scottish) degrees, were developing in France during the mid-1700s, and a mother-lodge at Bordeaux was spreading Ecossais Freemasonry throughout the Caribbean in the French

colonies of the West Indies. In 1763, Estienne Morin, a Freemason from Bordeaux, compiled a Masonic system of 25 degrees in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti). Morin’s rite later became the 33-degree Scottish Rite. But, in 1756, when the Secretary of the lodge at New Orleans, Brother François Rousillon, traveled to Bordeaux with a request for a high-degree lodge, Morin’s 25-degree rite did not yet exist. In April 1757, the governing body at Bordeaux granted General Rules for the formation of a high-degree lodge at New Orleans, but due the dangers of travel on the high seas during the Seven Years’ War, it was seven more years before Roussillon could return to New Orleans. Finally, on April 12, 1764, Roussillon opened a Grande et Magnifique Loge de Parfaits d’Ecossais at New Orleans, the first Masonic high-degree body established in North America.

In addition to the lodge La Parfaite Harmonie and its new high-degree body, another lodge, La Consolante Maçonne, was established at New Orleans in 1764, warranted by the lodge Anglaise de Bordeaux. This indicates that Loge La Parfaite Harmonie had reached its statutory maximum membership of 50 members, and Freemasonry in New Orleans was doing well.

However, this peaceful aspect was disturbed in the late 1760s. With the 1763 Treaty of Paris, which ended the Seven Years’ War, France ceded its North American territories to the British and Spanish. The British gained all of Canada and that part of Louisiana east of the Mississippi. The Spanish gained that part of Louisiana

14 15The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019 151515

west of the Mississippi as well as the “isle of New Orleans.” With the arrival of a Spanish governor in New Orleans, a number of the wealthy merchants, planters and leaders in the area began to talk of rejecting the imminent Spanish takeover, and they even began to consider establishing an independent democratic nation, a revolutionary idea, considering that it occurred almost a decade before the same thing was attempted in the British colonies of the east coast. Historians have identified fifteen New Orleans Freemasons of the late 1760s, and a number of them were the leaders of what became known as the Rebellion of 1768.

…Freemasonry in New Orleans may have continued underground, in secret, for a number of years…

After the new Spanish governor was ousted, and Spanish authorities reacted swiftly by sending Captain-General Alejandro O’Reilly with 2,000 Spanish soldiers. He arrived in New Orleans in August 1769, arrested and tried the leaders of the rebellion. One was killed while under arrest, five were executed by firing squad, and the rest were sent to prison at Moro Castle in Havana Harbor. Clearly, the arrival of a Spanish government in New Orleans, was not good for the future of Freemasonry in that city. After 1769, Freemasonry in New Orleans may have continued underground, in secret, for a number of years, but there are no records to confirm it.

The following year, in 1794, another group of New Orleans Freemasons petitioned the Grand Orient of France, requesting a charter for Loge l’Etoile Polaire (Polar Star). But, by that time, the French Revolution had forced the Grand Orient to suspend its labors. In 1796, another request was sent to the provincial lodge La Parfaite Sincerité at Marseilles. The request was granted, but the arrival of the charter was delayed, and the lodge’s first installation was finally held on December 27, 1798. Brother Duprelong Petavin was installed as the lodge’s first Worshipful Master. In 1804, after the Grand Orient resumed its labors, a charter for Loge l’Etoile Polaire No. 4263 was issued.

In 1800, Spain agreed by secret treaty to cede its Louisiana territories back

Twenty-five years after the Revolt of 1768, Louisiana was still under Spanish rule. But, among the French-speaking residents of New Orleans, there remained a number of Freemasons. Some had obtained their Masonic degrees in France or in the French lodges of the Caribbean, and they apparently made their Masonic membership known to each other.

On April 28, 1793, a local plantation owner, Laurent Sigur, met with 12 other Freemasons and resolved to send a petition requesting a charter from the Grand Lodge of South Carolina (Ancients). Of the 13 Masons present that day, 5 were listed as Entered Apprentices. The Grand Lodge of South Carolina, Ancient York Masons, granted their request, and the lodge, La Parfaite Union No. 29, was constituted on November 21, 1793. Laurent Sigur was installed as Worshipful Master of the lodge, with Laurent Chouriac as Senior Warden and André Wackernie as Junior Warden.

to France. However, the colony remained under Spanish control until 1803, when representatives of President Thomas Jefferson negotiated the purchase of all France’s newly acquired territories in North America, thereby gaining control over the important port of New Orleans, and doubling the size of the United States.

By 1812, when Louisiana became the 18th state, a number of Masonic lodges had been chartered in the new state, all in New Orleans. Members of Loge L’Etoile Polaire No. 4263 had requested a charter from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The request was granted and a charter was issued for Polar Star Lodge No. 129.

On June 13, 1812, representatives of

Laurent Sigur was not just a Master Mason, but a 7th-degree Sublime Prince of the Rose Croix, the highest degree of the French Rite, which he had received in the lodge at Nancy, in Lorraine, France. He had brought his family to Louisiana in 1778, and served 14 years in the militia. It is possible that this meeting, in April 1793, was not the first Masonic meeting he had attended in New Orleans. It is possible that he and other Freemasons had operated in secret for a number of years.

Some of those who met with Sigur in April 1793 had been in New Orleans since before the Revolt of 1768. Had they been members of the two lodges that disappeared with the arrival of Captain-General Alejandro O’Reilly (“Bloody O’Reilly,” as he is known in New Orleans history)? Had they continued their Masonic labors in secret for the past 25 years? The presence of five Entered Apprentices in New Orleans in April 1793 suggests that the light of Freemasonry had never been extinguished by the Spanish regime. We can only speculate.

five lodges, Perfect Union Lodge No. 29, Polar Star Lodge No. 129, Charity Lodge No. 93, Concord Lodge No. 117 and Perseverance Lodge No. 118 (the last four holding Pennsylvania charters) met in convention and resolved to form a grand lodge. A week later, on June 20, the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, F. & A.M., was constituted with the installation of Pierre François Dubourg as Grand Master, Louis Casimir Moreau-Lislet as Deputy Grand Master, Jean Blanque as Senior Grand Warden, and François Pernot as Junior Grand Warden.

Clearly, the history of Freemasonry in Louisiana is complex, not unlike the history of Freemasonry from its beginnings as an operative craft in the middle ages, its gradual development as a speculative fraternity during the 17th century, and its evolution during the 18th and 19th centuries. But, the history of early Freemasonry in Louisiana is an important part of the genealogy of Texas Freemasonry. Without Louisiana Freemasonry, the origins of Freemasonry in Texas would be an entirely different story.

FEATURE (continued)

16 17The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

The Profound Pontifications of Brother John Deacon

High Twelve in Sweetwater, TexasBy James C. “Chris” Williams IV

It has been a while since I have seen John, since he retired and all, but as fate would have it, I did accidentally happen to see him…or maybe it wasn’t accidental at all. But I couldn’t let this experience just go by without sharing it. It was one of those times, which as I have gotten older and a little wiser (which is up for argument according to Pam) that I have been able to see past the obvious and realize that things…at least some things…happen as if they were written in some ancient spiritual script and we are merely following what was predetermined long ago. By now you are probably screaming at the page to ‘get to the point already’…and so I shall.

It was a Friday a few weeks ago and I was on my way to Lubbock Texas to a weekend training conference with some other members of the Education and Service Committee. Larry, our Chairman was heading the same way, just from a different direction. He was bringing two other of our committee members Richard and Lane. Realizing that our routes were going to join in a little town called Sweetwater and pretty close to lunch time, we decided to meet there and have some lunch and do a little planning for the weekend ahead before driving the last leg into Lubbock. We had sought the advice of that learned sage Uncle Google, and found out that the best place to eat in the area was Allen’s Home Style restaurant located just east of beautiful downtown Sweetwater, Texas. That seeming like our best option, we decided to meet there around noon.

Well, I got there about 45 minutes before they did and since I was unfamiliar with the town I figured I

would locate this Allen’s Home Style restaurant and make it easier for them to find when they got in. I entered the address into my GPS and “proceeded to the highlighted route where the guidance system took over”….sounds familiar, huh? And she says that every time. As it turned out, I didn’t need the navigation system because it looked like every vehicle in Sweetwater was parked at Allen’s. I thought, “Wow, it looks like we picked the right place for sure. I called Larry and told him how to get to the restaurant and told him I was going to see if I could find an antique shop to look through while I waited. He

threatened me about buying “all the good stuff ” and he was still hurling threats as I hung up on him. He and I are on the same page when it comes to old Masonic stuff.

Visit https://grandlodgeoftexas.org/high-twelve-in-sweetwater-tx/ for the rest of the story.

GOOD HUMOR

A LOOK BACK

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry – Southern Jurisdiction

From Texas Freemason Article, February 1919

What Book to Place on the AltarThere have been numerous editorials and articles written of late by prominent Masonic writers throughout the world as to what is the proper book to place on the Masonic Altar of a Masonic Lodge. There seems to be a wide divergence of opinion and incidentally the only way that we can arrive at a conclusion of what is the proper book is to take into consideration the persons who compose the lodge. In our English-speaking countries and in fact most Christian countries, the Holy Bible is the only book placed on the altar of the Masonic Lodges. If there were no other books which would be placed upon the altar, Masonry, which is supposed to be universal, would not be universal for the simple fact that the Mohammedan does not know the Holy Writings as laid down in the Bible. His Bible is the Koran. Incidentally, the copy of the Koran placed upon the altar of the lodge working in the Mohammedan country answers the same purpose that the Bible does in our own United States. What holds good in this comparison holds good with any other race or denomination of different beliefs throughout the entire world. Then in going back to the original instructions as laid down by Anderson in his first laws governing a Masonic lodge, nothing is written about the fact that the Bible should be the proper book to be placed on the altar because we must take into consideration that there are places in the world where the people know nothing of the Bible, while in their own use their own sacred book would be just as binding upon them as the Bible is upon the people who use it.

The Scottish Rite is an appendant body to Freemasonry and was established as we know it today in Charleston, South Carolina in 1801. Organized Scottish Rite Freemasonry came to Texas in May 1867 when Philip C. Tucker, Grand Senior Warden of the Grand Lodge of Texas and Deputy Inspector General for the Scottish Rite in Texas, chartered San Felipe de Austin Lodge of Perfection No. 1 in Galveston. While the Scottish Rite had a fitful start in Texas with several bodies being created and demising in short order, the Scottish Rite has grown to ten Valleys including Galveston (1867), Austin (1881), Houston (1884), Dallas (1897), El Paso (1907), San Antonio (1913), Waco (1959), Lubbock (1973), Fort Worth (1975), and Rio Grande

Michael L. Wiggins, Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Texas

(2013). Today, there are approximately 17,000 Scottish Rite Freemasons belonging to the Valleys of Texas.

While no degree is higher than that of a

We can see no argument whatever on why a Mason obligated in different countries should not be on equality in so far as their Masonry is concerned. Masonry does not attempt to found a religion upon the teachings of the Bible or any other sacred book. Masonry is universal in its code of honor and virtue. We know Americans prefer the Bible to all other books as we have been taught from the Bible from infancy, but other nations have been taught from their books which are just as sacred to them as our Bible is to us. In other words, if a Mason obligated on the Bible m a Christian country should accidently be placed in the wilds of a Mohammedan country or any other country and he should meet a Brother Mason which would be manifest by signs, the brother in distress would not ask the Mohammedan if he had taken his obligation on the Bible and absolutely refuse to accept any aid from him because the Mohammedan was not a Christian. Masonry does not teach the Christian religion solely; it teaches that all men who are good are imbued with certain convictions and it matters not whether he be white black, red or yellow. There would be no Masonry without these sacred books setting forth the principles 0f morality, charity and virtue. There would be no signs because there would be no use for them as men would cease to be good. Therefore, in the case of what book should be placed upon the Masonic Altar, it depends not so much upon the book as upon the individual who has laid his hand upon the sacred volume.

Master Mason, the degrees of the Scottish Rite are a continuation of one’s Masonic journey by expanding on the lessons of the Craft Lodge. Its degrees are steps of initiation where the lessons of virtue and morality are portrayed in a traditional setting by legend and metaphor. Rich in symbolism, the Scottish Rite degrees present lessons in practical living of how we may overcome the obstacles and temptations that may otherwise prevent us from living an honorable life. The degrees teach us how to be better men, how to live lives of integrity, honesty, and fidelity and how to seek truth and justice. The Scottish Rite seeks to create a moral and social order based upon virtue, liberty, and equality.

BEST OF SHOW

ALTAR 1st Place

"Lady’s Special Event" (Portrait Category) Anthony “Tony” Teutsch - Treasure

Sugar Land Masonic Lodge # 1141Sugar Land, Texas

"In Remembrance" Nathan Shrode, Sr. DeaconYellowhouse Lodge #841Lubbock, Texas

"Sunrise in the Park"John N. VinerRandolph Lodge #1268Live Oak, Texas

"With this Gavel"Keith ArterburnSweethome Lodge #576Arlington, Texas

"Senior Portrait"Tim RichardsonGreenwood Lodge # 779Decatur Texas

"�e Final Tribute"Darrell �omas - 2018 DDGM District 13Royse City Lodge #663Royse City, Texas

2nd Place: "Altar of Light" Kenneth Hartlein Stockdale Lodge #470 Floresville, Texas3rd Place: "Where Hiram Knelt" Dow Mathis Kendall Lodge #897 Boerne, TexasHonorable Mention: “Castillian Lodge #141” �omas Rose (Pete)- Sr Deacon Castillian Lodge #141 Canton, Texas

LANDSCAPE 1st Place

MASONRY 1st Place

PORT�IT 1st Place

SNAPSHOT 1st Place

2nd Place:"Out of Commission" Ryan Dove Hylton Lodge #884 Wingate, Texas3rd Place:"Fiery Sky" Don Swanner Fate Masonic Lodge # 802 Fate, TexasHonorable Mention: "Bayer Sawmill" David Anderson Dayton Lodge #825 Spring, Texas

2018 Judges: Bruce Hammond, Je� Haven, Sir Charles Taylor, Russell Roberson, and JDarrell Kirkley

2nd Place: "Masons Do Not Search For Light Alone" Billy J. Hamilton, Jr - Junior Warden Fort Worth Lodge #148 Justin, Texas3rd Place: "Grand Master’s Homecoming" Charles A. Broussard, PM Silsbee Lodge #927 Silsbee TexasHonorable Mention "Masonic Emblem" Darrell C. He�ey Sam P. Cochran Lodge No. 1335 Grapevine, Texas

2nd Place: "Tiling with Gracie" Keith Arterburn Sweethome Lodge #576 Arlington, Texas3rd Place: "GM Chapman" Charles A. Broussard Silsbee Lodge #927 Silsbee TexasHonorable Mention: "Brother Samuel Levisse" Greg Wright River Oaks Lodge Ft. Worth, Texas

2nd Place: "Lightning Fireworks" Don Swanner Fate Masonic Lodge # 802 Fate, Texas3rd Place: "On watch" Kelly Goudeau Deer Park Lodge #1362 Houston, TexasHonorable Mention: "Frankie and the Farm Dog" Sco� M. Mesorama Reagan Lodge #1037 Houston, Texas

Texas History Commi�ee - Grand Lodge of Texas 19Texas Freemason | Spring 201918 The Grand Lodge of Texas

GRAND LODGE

Grand Lodge CommitteesThis will be a recurring column looking at the various Grand Lodge Committees, starting with the Permanent Committees. There are twenty Permanent Committees with varying term lengths for the members. Most often the term is seven years with a Grand Master appointing one member to each committee during his term in office. However, there are circumstances where a Grand Master may appoint multiple members to a committee during his term, such as to fill unexpired terms of members who have left the committee, or when a previous Grand Master did not appoint and that member’s term expired in a previous year.

This article pertains to the Committee on Purposes and Policies. This committee is defined in Grand Lodge Law Article 116 in the following manner:

Art. 116. Purposes and Policies. To the Committee on Purposes and Policies shall be referred all resolutions or matters presented to this Grand Lodge affecting or changing the established policies of this Grand Lodge, or in any way modifying or restricting the Ancient Customs and Usages of Freemasonry; provided, that this regulation shall not apply to resolutions involving changes in the Laws referred to the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence. The Committee on Purposes and Policies shall examine and consider all matters referred to it by the Grand Master or Grand Lodge and make report thereon with its recommendation. (Revised 1990)

This is what is written, but how does it really work? The seven committee members typically only participate in a formal meeting one time per year, at the Grand Annual Communication. They normally arrive to begin work on the Wednesday morning prior to the

opening of Grand Lodge to review, debate, and recommend, items for consideration by the Grand Lodge. The committee members start receiving resolutions by referral of the Grand Master or the normal course of business, soon after the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence receives and approves them for proper form. Their work has been described as review for intent and implication, versus legal form. Each committee member can review the resolutions at their own pace in preparation for the meeting in Waco. Most say they have reviewed them, researched, sought opinions from trusted Brothers, and come to the meeting prepared to discuss the items. Once they meet in Waco, the timeclock is running to be ready for reporting and comments with the opening of the Grand Lodge session on Thursday. They continue to meet as items change or issues arise. They often opine outside the committee report, offer amendments and recommend adoption or non-adoption of resolutions. You will not often see the members of this committee during the Grand Lodge session as their work behind closed doors is not finished until near the very end.

The committee must also be mindful that other committees are reviewing the same materials from differing viewpoints. Often, there are cross- committee referrals that need to be reconciled, if possible, before they can be presented to the Grand Lodge members for a vote. Roughly, ninety-percent of all resolutions and recommendations pass through this committee. The committee’s concern is less legalistic, or ritualistic, and more of a “is it good for Grand Lodge” approach. The Grand Lodge members might question why some resolutions are even being presented, but remember is it not

the committee’s duty to regulate what a member of Grand Lodge or representatives of Lodges may propose, it is to ensure that it is broadly compliant under the committees charge in Article 116.

The Grand Master’s appointments to this committee are vitally important as this committee touches almost all the resolutions and recommendations submitted. Additionally, a diverse background in Masonic history, experiences, ages, and non-masonic backgrounds, will provide the most diverse group of opinions.

Committee members have commented that they have detailed in depth discussions. However, no one mentions any contentious arguments, but do make it clear that they are not a committee of “Yes Men”, and not all decisions are unanimous. We chose this committee to highlight first as it is a significant participant in what comes to the floor during the Grand Annual Communication.

While the title of the committee is rather nondescript to those not readily conversant in Grand Lodge law, it is critical to the success of the Grand Lodge session, and we would like to extend thanks to those who serve on the committee and to those who gave of their time for this article. Their insights were very helpful in presenting the details of the committee’s work.

Strengthening families for a brighter future

Helping those in need: The Legacy

In 1899, the Masonic Widows and Orphans Home opened its doors in Fort Worth, Texas. Two orphaned brothers showed up early to apply for admission. Dr. Frank Rainey, the institution’s first superintendent and a man of immense compassion, did not have the heart to turn away the needy boys. Instead, he graciously invited them to stay with him and his wife. The little group lived in a tent on the grounds until the new building was completed.

In addition to helping children, the facility also provided living accommodations for the widows of Texas Masons.

In 1910, the widows were moved to Texas Masonic Retirement Center and the institution’s name was changed from The Masonic Widows and Orphans Home to Masonic Orphans Home.

In 1913, Masonic Orphans Home was declared an independent school district then referred to as Masonic Home and School of Texas.

The needs of the children and widows dependent on MHS changed over the decades.

The last graduate of Masonic Home and School crossed the stage in 2005, and the residential facility and independent school district closed their doors. Thus, ending the era of a brick-and-mortar facility.

In 2007, Masonic Home and School of Texas began a new chapter. Masonic Home and School of Texas provides information, referral, and financial support for qualified children and widows of Texas Master Masons residing in Texas.

As the new year begins... so does a new chapter for Masonic Home and School of Texas. MHS has been upholding our legacy of helping underserved children and Texas Masonic widows with great pride for more than a century. Starting in January 2019, we will continue to fulfill that mission under a name that more clearly explains how we help those in our community—Masonic Children & Family Services.

The name will better help people understand what we do. Our sincere hope is that this small change will make it easier for families of children in need to recognize us as a resource.

Fulfilling a legacy Our Masonic legacy, to improve the lives of children and Texas Masonic widows has always been, and will continue to be, at the heart of all that we do.

This is Seeley. Behind this beautiful smile is a young boy who lost his Father. He, his Mother, and twin Brother, were having a hard time, especially Seeley, who we discovered needed ABA Therapy for his Autism. We helped this family with their needs, and we are so incredibly grateful we were able to make a difference, not only in this child's life, but also in the hundreds we help annually.

To learn more about MCFS, and how you can help, visit the website at www.mcfstx.org or call 1-877-203-9111

Fantastic Teeth Fan Club Children and Family Services Widows program at TMRC Parent Autism Training program 20 21The Grand Lodge of Texas

EDUCATION AND COMMITMENT

Masons are generous and strong and decent; not because we believe in ourselves, but because we hold beliefs beyond ourselves. When the lessons inculcated in our degrees are missing, no invention of man can replace them. When those lessons are followed, no man can stand against them.

Texas Lodge of Research helps us preserve our rich history and examine our values. I firmly believe that every Mason has an idea for a research paper within his mind and his heart. There are untold stories and unwritten musings itching to be placed on paper. Our Editorial Committee enhances those ideas and assists authors to perfect their thoughts and translate them into the written word. Sixty years later, Texas Masons can proudly delve into an entire bookcase of works on matters important to Freemasonry authored by men we rightfully call our brothers.

Texas Lodge of Research is known internationally. Every Master Mason in Texas can join this international brotherhood. Our members include Masons from multiple jurisdictions, including the Grand Lodge of California, Oklahoma, Washington D.C., and the United Grand Lodge of England.

The Lodge travels the State and meets quarterly. The March 30th Meeting—our officer elections and installation—will be held in Houston at the Houston Scottish Rite. All Master Masons are welcome to visit our meetings. The installation and paper presentations portions of our meeting are open to the public. Please join us to learn more about Texas Freemasonry, enjoy fellowship with Masons, and welcome our new officers.

Each June, Texas Lodge of Research presents the Anson Jones Lecture. Past lecturers include Arturo de Hoyos, Brent Morris, and several Past Grand Masters from other states. The 2018 Anson Jones Lecturer was Patton Hart, PGM of Kentucky. The Lodge elected Stephen Doan, PGM of California, to be the 2019 Anson Jones Lecturer.

Information on joining Texas Lodge of Research (including a Petition) can found on our website: www.texaslodgeofre-search.org. Dues are a mere $35 per year. A Full Member, such as our Secretary, must sign your Petition. So be on the lookout for the apron of a Full Member of Texas Lodge of Research. Hopefully, you will join our ranks and come to wear that apron.

One of my favorite aspects of this fraternity is the way it

connects men of sometimes wildly different perspectives and

experiences. As our ritual explains: “Masonry unites men of

every country, sect and opinion, and conciliates true friend-

ship among those who might otherwise have remained at a

perpetual distance”. Combine that with the suggestion in our

charges that we “converse with well-informed brethren” and

the repeated encouragement to practice virtues like sincerity,

patience, and toleration, and it is no wonder that Masons all

over the world enjoy spending time together talking and ex-

changing ideas about Masonry and being a Mason. If that’s an

activity you enjoy, as I do, you’ll want to check out “The Ma-

sonic Roundtable”, organized by Brother Jon Ruark of The Pa-

triot Lodge No. 1957 in Fairfax, Virginia. Each week, a diverse

and passionate group of Masons from around the country get

together to discuss all things Masonic, and the video of each

gathering is made available through YouTube and directly from

their website at https://www.themasonicroundtable.com/.

They have been at it regularly since 2014, and their shows

have much to offer in the way of Masonic history, tradition,

philosophy, current events, and the future of the fraternity.

The conversation is lively, meaningful, intelligent, insightful,

and thought-provoking. Many shows also feature interesting

guests including Masonic scholars, authors, and lecturers. I

especially recommend those shows that explore the profound-

ly practical and personal journey we each experience in living

as Masons. Along this theme are shows about gratitude, help-

ing brothers in distress, the difficulties of change and trans-

formation, and an exploration of the many Masonic lessons

about mortality. There are shows that explore the beginnings

of American Grand Lodges, the evolution of American ritual,

the rise of the anti-Masonic movement, and even the history

and rituals of obscure Masonic side orders and organizations.

Several episodes dive deeply into specific aspects of Mason-

ic symbolism, and many others explore common challenges

faced by Lodges, new officers, and new Masons. In short, there

should be something of interest to every Mason at the “The

Masonic Roundtable”. The next time you find yourself with

some free time, and you have your phone or computer nearby,

take a look. Perhaps you will even find something that inspires

you to start a similar conversation in your own Lodge.

Texas Lodge of ResearchChris Livingston, Worshipful Master SPOTLIGHT

Kevin Main, Member Committee on Masonic Education and Service

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CUP-TS St/Steel Insulated Cup 20 oz $20.00

531TS $25.00

534TS Masonic Passport $15.00

TS-ECKNIFE $50.00

TS-SCKNIFE $140.00

527TS BOLO TIE- w/Grand Masters Logo $15.00

530TS $15.00

528TS LOGO DECALS - $1.00

529TS TAIL LIGHT DECALS (PAIR) S&C $5.00

529TS-PM TAIL LIGHT DECALS (PAIR) PM $5.00

529GM 8" WINDOW DECAL S&C $10.00

536TS-CAMO $15.00

536TS-NAVY $15.00

533TS-NAVY $35.00

533TS-DENIM $35.00

540TS-ROYL Tie Royal w/Grand Masters Logo $40.00

540TS-BT-RL Bow Tie Royal, untied w/Grand Masters Logo $40.00

540TS-GRAY Tie Steel Gray w/Grand Masters Logo $40.00

540TS-BT-GR Bow Tie Steel Gray, untied w/Grand Masters Logo $40.00

LADIES PIN LADIES pin, Beige, White or Pearl $10.00

LADIES BAG Ladies Tote Bag $30.00

LADIES BOK Tassel Bookmark (PAIR) $5.00

CALENDAR Pocket Calendar 2019 $5.00

SUB-TOTAL

Check Enclosed (Make Check Payable to Grand Lodge of Texas) S/H Under $50 $7.00S/H over $50.00 $12.00

VISA/MC/DISC ONLY CARD # _____________________________________ TOTAL CVN# ________

NAME: ______ RETURN TO;GRAND LODGE OF TEXAS

Address: PO BOX 446WACO, TX 76703

Phone: __(_______)__ ______________-____________________ 254-753-7395

Signature: ___________________________________________

3" CAR EMBLEM w/Grand Masters Logo

Cap- SOLID Navy

Commemorative Knife, Boxed & Numbered W/Enamel Coin

CHARM

BAR CLIP TIE CHAIN - w/Charm

LARGE BUCKLE Enamel w/Grand Masters Logo

CITY/STATE ________________________________ ZIP___________

SIM/LTHR EMBOSSED WRITING FOLDER

Commemorative Knife, Boxed & Numbered W/SILVER Coin

Shirt - Light Denim Long Sleeve M-L-XL-2XL-3XL

Cap - - Mesh Back Camo High-Visibility

EXP DATE:__________

Shirt - Navy M-L-XL-2XL-3XL

521TS 521TS-C 532TS

523TS 535FOB, 535FOB-PM

CUFF/BTN-TS 520TS

524TS 525TS

526TS 522TS

CUP-TS 521TS 534TS

TS-ECKNIFE TS-SCKNIFE 527TS

530TS 528TS 529TS, 529TS-PM

529GM 536TS-CAMO 536TS-NAVY

533TS-NAVY 533TS-DENIM 540TS-GRAY/ROYL

540-TS-RL/GR LADIES PIN

LADIES BAG LADIES BOK CALENDAR

22 23The Grand Lodge of Texas Texas Freemason | Spring 2019

No Mason Left Behind and Our ObligationHelp senior Masons and their families live with dignity in safe, comfortable surroundings

at the Texas Masonic Retirement Center

Your Texas Masonic Retirement Center is a 501 c3 Charitable Organization and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

We all remember the words we said, the promises we made, that day we became “Master Masons”. It is a day that will forever be indelibly etched on our minds until the day we lay down our working tools. From that, each of us have an obligation to take care of our brothers. And it is that, that is the singular mission of the No Mason Left Behind Project.

As the Superintendent of your Texas Masonic Retirement Center, I am truly blessed that my OBLIGATION is also my OCCUPATION. In fact, through your continued generosity, our services fulfill a great deal of the promises we all make as Masons.

For example, several years ago, I received a call from a Secretary of a lodge asking that I come out and meet with one of their members – let’s call him “John”. That meeting changed my life.

John was well in to his 90’s, very limited mobility, his health was poor, and the only support he had was his Lodge. His power and water had been shut off and it was only by the generosity of his lodge brothers, that he had managed to get the services restored. There was no food in the house – the only time John ate was when his lodge brought him food. The only family John had was a great granddaughter, who had incidentally, embezzled John’s entire life savings – then disappeared. If all of this was not enough, he was facing certain foreclosure.

If not for the support of his Lodge, John would have been homeless long before I ever met him. But a lodge can only do so much, and his options were quickly running out. But John was lucky. Lucky, he was a Mason. Lucky his Lodge didn’t let him fall thru the cracks. Lucky for the Texas Masonic Retirement Center.

Within months of moving into your Texas Masonic Retirement Center, John had gained 20 pounds, his health was greatly improved, and more than anything – he was happy, a simple emotion that had eluded him for many years.

This was the birth of the No Mason Left Behind Project – a 90+ year old, 50-year Mason, on the edge of homelessness. We wanted to bring awareness to those in John’s position.

Identify them and get them the help we are all obligated to provide. This is not a new concept, it is what your Texas Masonic Retirement Center has been doing for the last 108 years.

Not only does your Texas Masonic Retirement Center provided upscale senior living to Texas Masons, their widows, and other qualified family members, but we provide over $3 million a year in charitable care providing for Master Masons and their Mothers who may normally not be able to afford such accommoda-tions. Our No Mason Left Behind Project strives to bring awareness to this mission and should remind us all to LEAVE NO MASON BEHIND.

Please consider donating to help us continue to fulfill our mutual obligation.

In service to the Craft,

Gary B. Blair, Superintendent Texas Masonic Retirement Center

CONSTITUTED

APRIL 1838

TEXAS FREEMASON

The Grand Lodge of Texas 715 Columbus Ave Waco, TX 76701

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR FRATERNITY WITH THE GRAND LODGE OF TEXAS MASONIC LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM!https://renew.txdmv.gov/Renew/SpecialPlateOrderServlet?grpid=60&pltid=342

A great way to support the Grand Lodge of Texas and to raise awareness of Masonry in Texas, is the Grand Lodge Masonic License Plate Program. Please note that 100% of the proceeds from this program go directly to supporting Grand Lodge of Texas and its educational, benevolent, and charitable purposes.