OMN
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
JANUARY 2026
Stewarding
THE FUTURE
OF OREGON FREEMASONRY
OREGON MASONIC NEWS JANUARY 2026 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Grand Secretary, James L. Morgan, P.G.M. EDITOR Holly Darling OMN@oregonfreemasonry.com CONTRIBUTORS Marc L. Strong Gregory A. Hinkleman Donovan J. Darling Jason T. Hamblen Dale B. Palileo Richard D. Varner Marissa Douglas TO CHANGE DELIVERY OPTIONS Login to or.grandview.systems to edit your communication preferences CONTACT US www.oregonfreemasonry.com info@oregonfreemasonry.com 503.357.3158
Rights are reserved to edit all submitted material, and views expressed in articles may not necessarily be the official position of the Grand Lodge nor an endorsement thereof. Proprietary rights to all articles published in the Oregon Masonic News are the sole property of the author and cannot be reproduced without express permission of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. of Oregon.
4 Stewarding the Future of Oregon Freemasonry
2 More Than a Donation
7 A Labor of Love
CONTENTS 1 2 3 4 7 8 10 12 14
Grand Master’s Message More Than a Donation What Keeps Us in Masonry Stewarding the Future of Oregon Freemasonry A Labor of Love The Importance of Public Schools Fellows of the Craft News and Announcements Travel with the Grand Master to Washington, D.C.
Cover image courtesy of the Scottish Rite NMJ
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEW THE GRAND MASTER’S CALENDAR
GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE
Reflecting on our Service a n d L o o k i n g A h e a d i n t h e N e w Ye a r
A
s we begin a new Masonic year, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and to look ahead with optimism. Our Lodges have welcomed new officers, new members, and new ideas. These transitions bring fresh energy and help us continue work that often takes more than a single year to complete. We also recognize that many of our members face challenges and losses over the course of a year. A simple check-in—a call, a visit, a sincere “How are you doing?”—can mean more than we realize. When we show care, share our passions, and look for ways to support one another, we help those facing difficult moments find renewed purpose and a sense of belonging. Across Oregon, Lodges continue to strengthen their communities through meaningful service. Whether supporting reading programs, robotics clubs, FFA activities, libraries, backpack meals, or food banks, we make a real difference. These efforts reflect our values in action and show our communities what it means to live our obligations. Our impact is significant. One Lodge in Eastern Oregon recently awarded $20,000 in scholarships from a trust created by two brethren nearly a century ago—an enduring reminder of how Masonic generosity continues to change lives. The 2024 impact report shows that, together, we provided more than $1.3 million in assistance to communities statewide. Every volunteer hour, every project, and every act of kindness contributes to this influence. As we look forward, let us remain active, visible, and united in purpose. When we support one another and embrace new opportunities, we strengthen our Lodges and uplift the communities we serve. May this year be fi lled with growth, renewed connections, and the continued joy of making a positive difference—together. Sincerely and Fraternally,
Marc L. Strong Grand Master 2025-2026
JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 1
More Than a Donation
A G I F T O F S U P P O R T AT T H E M A S O N I C & E A S T E R N S TA R H O M E
A
recent visit by several Brothers from Pacific Lodge No. 50 The visit also included time at the Grand Lodge office and a to the Masonic campus served as a meaningful reminder tour of the Robert M. Richmond Library and Museum, where of the impact charitable efforts have across the jurisdiction. Oregon’s Masonic history is carefully preserved. Familiarity These Brothers visited the Masonic with these facilities and the staff and Eastern Star Home—the who support our jurisdiction Jennings McCall Center (JMC), strengthens the bonds that unite experiencing firsthand the our Lodges and enhances our compassion and care that define shared work. one of Oregon Freemasonry’s most As W.B. Neily M. Cooper enduring commitments. II shared, "having the ability to They found the sense of welcome contribute to the Masonic and immediate at JMC. The dedication Eastern Star Home is a privilege of the staff and the warmth of the Pacific Lodge No. 50 is proud residents reflect the values of service to uphold." Every Brother is and charity that are central to the encouraged to visit the campus at Craft. Seeing the environment least once. Seeing the impact of sustained by the generosity of our work firsthand strengthens our Oregon Masons reinforces why sense of purpose and deepens our support of the Masonic and Eastern connection to the Masonic family. Star Home remains a cornerstone of You can schedule your own visit Oregon Masonic charity. to the Masonic campus to stop - Daniel De La Rosa During the visit, Pacific Lodge by the Grand Lodge Office, tour No. 50 presented a $1,000 donation the Jennings McCall Center, view to JMC. This contribution represents Masonic history in the Robert M. the collective commitment of the Richmond Library & Museum, Lodge and exemplifies the spirit of peace, harmony, and and enjoy a meal in the original Home, now housing benevolence that guides our Fraternity. Such gifts, made McMenamins Grand Lodge. possible through the dedication of our Lodges and members, Contact the Grand Lodge at 503-357-3158 or directly support the care and quality of life of those we serve. info@OregonFreemasonry.com to schedule your visit.
"It wasn’t just a visit; it was a reminder of the impact Freemasonry has on real lives.."
2 |
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
Enduring, Compassionate Care Since 1922
What Keeps Us in Masonry R.W.B. Gregory A. Hinkelman, Senior Grand Warden
O
The best decision you can make for a life of independence, confidence and freedom.
YOUR FAMILY IS OUR FOCUS RETIREMENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING PROGRESSIVE CA RE MEMORY CA RE
“It’s simply beautiful here! There’s something for everyone.” - Roy Jennings McCall resident
2300 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116 (503) 357-4133 www.jenningsmccall.com
ur Masonic Fraternity is unique, shaped by ritual, symbolism, philosophy, and esoteric teachings that set us apart. Brothers are often asked what brought them to Masonry, and the answers are many. The better question may be: What keeps you in Masonry? I submit that the answer is simple—the Brothers. I have often said that if it were not for Masonry, many of us would never have met. At my home Lodge, Clatskanie Lodge No. 133, in a small rural community, I had met several Brothers through my civilian work before joining. Knowing them made the decision to join even more inviting. As a Master Mason, traveling to other Lodges expanded my circle of Masonic friendships. That circle grew even wider through service as a Grand Lodge officer and through involvement in our appendant and concordant bodies. These opportunities allowed me to meet Brothers I might never have known otherwise, and for that I am grateful. By attending our Lodges, visiting others, and participating in the many Masonic bodies available to us, friendships are formed. Some grow into deep, lifelong bonds. For me, it began with the Brothers who mentored me early on—the coach, the Worshipful Master, the Brother who gave me the tie bar off his own tie at my raising, and the Brother who quietly offered wise counsel. Many of those Brothers have since passed on, and their absence is still felt deeply. We can become busy with Lodge activities, but the greatest reward is found in the lives and fellowship of our Brothers. I cherish every opportunity to reconnect, especially with those I do not see often, and to share in our mutual Masonic experiences. That bond brings us together, sustains us, and will continue to nourish us in the years ahead. My Brothers, until we can sit in Lodge again, thank you for your friendship.
JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 3
Stewarding
THE FUTURE
OF OREGON FREEMASONRY Marissa Douglas, Marketing Director 4 |
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
T
he future of Oregon Freemasonry is shaped not by a single initiative, but by a shared commitment to welcome, nurture, and mentor the men who knock at our doors. Each inquiry that reaches the Grand Lodge—whether sparked by the presence of a local Lodge or discovered through our growing digital outreach—represents a man taking his first step toward something meaningful. Awareness kindles curiosity, thoughtful communication builds trust, and steadfast mentorship carries a man through the degrees and beyond. When each is tended with care, inquiries are not merely received—they are cultivated into committed, engaged Brothers. In tending the whole path, we honor both the men who come to us and the future of the Craft itself. HELPING MEN FIND FREEMASONRY Though many people have heard of Freemasonry, most do not know a Mason personally or understand where to begin. To bridge this gap, we engage audience through OregonFreemasonry.com and targeted awareness campaigns via Google and Meta. Digital assets speak in simple invitations: “Learn More,” “Get to Know Freemasonry,” “Get Started Today.” These prompts guide men to take voluntary next steps—clicking, exploring, and eventually submitting their information. These actions are intentional, and as a result, most inquiries come from men who already feel genuinely drawn to something meaningful in the Craft. Encouragingly, research confirms that interest is real. The "Path Forward" study, conducted in 2023 by the Scottish Rite Northern Jurisdiction, surveyed more than 3,500 American men from diverse backgrounds. Ninety-one percent responded positively to the core elements of Freemasonry: moral character, charitable work, brotherhood, and pathways to self-improvement. Millennials—now our most active target group— expressed interest at
significantly higher levels than older generations, with 77% indicating openness to joining. These findings make one thing clear: men want to join the organization. Our responsibility is to help them find their way. When we authentically present our core values and speak to the modern man, we do more than market—we illuminate a path. Lodges can access data-driven resources, images and videos from the Scottish Rite campaign, all of which can be used for Lodge websites, social media, trestleboards, etc. CONNECTING WITH INQUIRIES Interest alone is not enough; connection is where relationships take root. Since the Grand View system was adopted in 2010, Lodges have had immediate access for review and follow up on inquiries. Recently, we have added another layer of support: District Prospect Managers. Read more about these dedicated Brothers on page 8. Coordinated by Junior Grand Warden, R.W.B. Eric Young, this team acts as a safeguard—supporting Lodges, complementing their outreach, and relieving the pressure that often falls on a lone volunteer. Additionally, a new series of automated emails gently introduce prospects to the Craft, explaining what it means to be a Freemason today and what their pursuit toward membership may look like. These efforts not only increase satisfaction but reduce the burden on local volunteers.
District Prospect Managers Dist. Name 1 Terry Pea 2 John Christian 3 Jimmie Jaimes 5 Dale Palileo 6 Thomas Knapp 7 John Schirmer 8 Brett Vaughters 9 Jerry Marshall 10 Neily Cooper, II 11 Greg O'Neal
Dist. Name 12 Christopher Wig 13 Jared Baggin 14 Bob Mallory 15 Garrett Pottmeyer 16 pending 17 John Nerski 18 pending 19 Jacob Best 20 C. Lowell Knopp 21 pending
From a 2023 study conducted by the Scottish Rite NMJ
JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 5
S U P P O R T I N G M E N O N T H E I R P AT H Of course, the most critical stage is the one technology cannot perform: mentorship. Knocking on the door begins the process—but sustained engagement, genuine human connection, and personal guidance are what keep a man on the journey. The Craft is not simply seeking more members; we seek worthy men of strong moral character who are prepared to uphold the values that enrich our Fraternity. Does your Lodge have mentorship leadership in place? Are your meetings engaging for both current members and the men who may someday stand beside them as Brothers? The truth is clear: every stage of this process strengthens the future of Oregon Freemasonry and you are the face of the Craft for those you interact with. Your example, patience, and dedication can often shape a man’s decision to join. Your work is never wasted. Your contribution is invaluable—thank you for welcoming quality men into a Brotherhood you are entrusted to preserve.
SCAN THESE QR CODES TO ACCESS THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES
D ATA - D R I V E N I N F O F R O M THE SCOTTISH RITE NMJ
W E S T G AT E E X P E R I E N C E : ONBOARDING NEW MEMBERS*
MEMBER PROSPECTING RESOURCE* *requires Grand View login
6 |
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
District Prospect Manager There are exciting new positions that will help Oregon Freemasonry grow its membership: District Prospect Managers. The District Prospect Managers will assist Lodges in managing and contacting initial prospects coming through Grand View. With the assistance of the District Deputies, we have selected Brothers to assist with follow up on Grand View leads at the district level. District Prospect Managers are tasked with monitoring the Grand View inquiry page and making contact with new inquiries within 24-48 hours after the inquiry has been assigned. These District Prospect Managers may have an initial conversation with the prospect, provide information, answer questions, and, if appropriate, invite them to a stated communication or other appropriate function of the assigned Lodge. They will enter notes into Grand View so the Lodge can review their recommendations. The District Prospect Managers will then inform the Lodge Membership Chair of the outstanding invitation. It is still the Lodge’s responsibility to perform its due diligence for all prospects. We already have success stories to share! W.B. John Schirmer, District Prospect Manager of District 7, has been making calls on inquiries going back three years. These inquiries had previously been worked on only sporadically. He found that even though many of these inquirers had been contacted before, they were still interested yet had not received contact. The Lodge had five of these “door knockers” attend dinner at their November stated communication. Moving forward, as the Grand Lodge embarks on more targeted awareness campaigns, the role of the District Prospect Manager will help our Lodges and jurisdiction capture more qualified men knocking on the door of Freemasonry. If you have any questions, contact me or your District Prospect Manager. Fraternally, Eric M. Young Junior Grand Warden
A Labor of Love
Th e T i m e , Di s c i p l i n e , a n d Rewa rd of Fre e m a s o n r y By Brother Donovan J. Darling
W
hat I knew about Freemasonry was from The Simpsons’ parody of the “Stonecutters”—a silly secret club whose members mostly pranked each other, played pingpong, and drank beer. That is to say, I knew nothing about Freemasonry, but I always wanted to. Once I discovered what actually happened behind closed doors, I was surprised and humbled—not by any kind of wild hijinks or lewd behavior— but by something old-fashioned and yet very timely: ceremony, wisdom, morality, and discipline. My Masonic journey started rather simply: I submitted a request for more information through OregonFreemasonry.com. The application process became more tangible when the Secretary of Union Lodge No. 3 in McMinnville called me, and we exchanged texts on the next steps I would need to take to become a Freemason. I was given a tour of the Lodge like so many applicants before me—on the secretive third floor of the 165-year-old building on Third Street—where I imagined past Brothers had looked on with the same curiosity and wonder. During my tour, I was asked why I wanted to join—I said I wanted to be a better person and make new friends. In my experience, men these days are becoming more and more isolated, with few good friends we can depend on and be vulnerable with. How did men make friends in decades past? I can’t even tell you. I think many of us, who have been dragged by our parents or had weird experiences or judgments, are going to church less and therefore have less traditional moral guidance. As men in a society whose morals, as well as the reputation of what it means to be a man, are
Union Lodge No. 3 participated in the Classroom of the Month program in their community.
deteriorating, we are desperate for good friendships and positive role models. And it’s incumbent upon ourselves to seek out, promote, and participate in this community of good, like-minded, considerate men. Later, I was asked if I was willing to commit myself to the teachings of Freemasonry, having no real clue what I was getting into. I said yes and took the leap about 6 months ago. Now that I’ve completed my Entered Apprentice proficiency, I can say with certainty that the beginning of my journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. The EA proficiency itself was mentally exhausting and time-consuming, as I spent six months studying before I felt ready—I’ve since been told the EA proficiency is the hardest to learn. During that time I met with my wonderful coach and friend, R.W.B. Rick Fieldhouse, District Deputy No. 2, each Sunday morning for 2 hours. My Masonic life so far has been a real investment of time and a labor of love, not just for me, but also my Brothers. But as Rick and I have discussed, anything worth doing is worth doing right. Freemasonry is very much an investment—of time, energy, and discipline—in yourself. And I believe it’s a worthwhile Bro. Darling was interviewed by KPTV for investment with the Classroom of the Month news segment. its rewards of insight, meaning, moral guidance, and Brotherhood. Counter to the instant-gratification we find in our increasingly fast, superficial, digital lives, Freemasonry invites us to slow down and contemplate what it means to be good, what it means to be moral, what it means to be men.
JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 7
The Importance of Public Schools By W.B. Jason T. Hamblen, Public Schools Committee Chairman
I
f you have ever thought that the importance of public schools and public education in general does not apply to you, think again. You don’t need to have children or grandchildren currently in public schools for this to be important to you, and for you to care what happens to the education of those individuals within the public schools. If you live your life in the United States and specifically in this jurisdiction of Oregon, public education and the success thereof affects many aspects of your daily life. Your city council member, county assessor, senator, representative, mayor and many other individuals that received education within public schools are making decisions, creating policies and establishing laws that affect you, your family and yes even the Masonic Fraternity. If you now think that public schools may be a bit more important to you, you are wise. Is it important enough to
8 |
As Masons we need to work together to make a positive impact upon our public schools and build relationships within our communities.
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
“
“
make this a Masonic priority for you and your Lodge? As Masons we need to work together to make a positive impact upon our public schools and build relationships within our communities. This task is not always simple nor the same throughout our state. This task must also be flexible from year to year to be effective and relevant. Sometimes our Lodges have done the same thing for several years and wonder why the result is not what we hope for. There is good news! The Grand Lodge of Oregon does not dictate what specific program your Lodge should participate in within the public schools. This should be determined by your Lodge and the need of the public school(s) you partner within your community. Be creative and think outside of the normal programs in which you have become familiar. Consider supporting a culinary team, the band, or the debate team. The most important aspect to consider is what can be
done to make a positive difference in the school. How can assistance by your Lodge make an impact in the lives of the students and the environment of the school? The Grand Lodge, in cooperation with the Public Schools Committee, is committed to assisting each Lodge in this endeavor and honoring your service within the public schools. Lodges and individuals are eligible for an award acknowledging the commitment that you and your Brothers have made to this important aspect of Freemasonry. Here is how the award point system works: • 1 hour of volunteer service in a Public School = 50 points • 1 dollar donated to a Public School = 1 point • Award points required for the year = 500 points It is really that simple. Donate just 10 hours of service in a public school and you have met the minimum for a Lodge award. If you do not have a Brother available to donate service hours to a public school, you can donate money for a project. A $500 total donation for the year will also get you a Lodge award. These are the minimum amounts to receive award recognition; a great place to start and build upon. The more you can give, the more reward to your personal soul and the soul of your Lodge. Your Lodge secretary reports to the Public Schools Committee each year the amount of hours or
money donated on behalf of the Lodge or a specific Brother. Please join me in increasing the participation of support for our public schools this Masonic year. Won’t you consider making this a priority for you and your Lodge? You, your Brothers, and your community will be better off for the commitment and service you provide. I have seen many students as they remember and share several stories over the years of how the Masons helped them, and that is a wonderful gift!
+ With
C R E AT I N G A P A R T N E R S H I P Lodges can maximize their community impact! Submit your application today!
O re go nFre e m a s o n r y. co m / C A P
Celebrate 175 Years of Oregon Freemasonry in Your Community In September 2026, the Grand Lodge of Oregon marks its 175th anniversary—a milestone worth celebrating across the state. Along with the official event in Forest Grove on September 12, 2026, Lodges are encouraged to host district events between August–October. Big or small, public or private, each event is a chance to honor our history, strengthen fellowship, and showcase Freemasonry’s impact in Oregon communities. Planning an event? Contact Marketing Director Marissa Douglas at mdouglas@oregonfreemasonry.com.
G R A N D LO D GE S U PP O RT!
Up to $1,0 0 0 Reimb ursement for Eligible Co sts Promotional Si gnage & Commemorati ve Materials Press Release Template & Digital Grap hics
SAV E TH E DATE TO C E LE B R ATE
Oregon F R E E M A S O N R Y
1851
2026
SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
THE MASONIC CAMPUS in FOREST GROVE , OR JA N UA RY 2 0 26 | 9
FELLOWS OF THE CRAFT
Revisiting the Value of the Fellows of the Craft Program W.B. Dale B. Palileo, Grand Lecturer
T
his is always an exciting time especially for Brothers stepping into new roles and learning new ritual work. Naturally, your Lodge should also have a plan for initiating, passing, and raising candidates throughout the year. But beyond simply conferring degrees, Lodge leadership should also consider how candidates progress, ensuring that they not only move through the three degrees, but also gain a meaningful understanding of the Craft itself. Every Lodge eventually discovers that even the best candidates learn in different ways. Some Brothers grasp the traditional proficiency work quickly, while others may find the memorization challenging. This does not mean they are incapable; it simply means they need a different approach. This is one of the reasons why the Fellows of the Craft program was established. Officially recognized by way of a
10 |
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
Grand Lodge resolution in 2006, the Fellows of the Craft program was meant to fulfill two goals: • To provide a meaningful learning curriculum for Brothers to learn about each degree. • To provide an alternative to the traditional degree proficiency learning requirement as defined by Section 246 of the Oregon Masonic Code. This alternative is built on three elements: • Mentorship from a certified Fellows of the Craft mentor. • An open-book test based on the Fellows of the Craft curriculum. • An abbreviated form of the memory work, which includes the obligation and modes of recognition for each degree. The third element needs to be exemplified in open Lodge in the same manner as the traditional proficiency work.
WHO IT IS FOR While the program serves as an alternative for Brothers who struggle with traditional memorization, its value extends far beyond that. Brothers who do complete traditional proficiencies often find the curriculum immensely helpful in deepening their understanding of Freemasonry and in forming a strong foundation for future study. The program contextualizes the degrees, Oregon’s Masonic history, and the Craft’s fundamental teachings in ways the memory work alone does not. Master Masons may also find value in the program. It helps fill the proverbial gaps, strengthens their ability to mentor new Brothers, and provides a framework for teaching the Craft with clarity and purpose. In short: it’s for any Brother who wants to learn—and eventually teach—more Light in Masonry. W H AT I T I S N O T Because of the open-book nature of the program’s tests, Brothers may think that the Fellows of the Craft program is a “short cut” through the degrees. Nothing can be further from the truth. In fact, the program demands more time not just from the student, but from his mentor as well. It encourages as much oneon-one time between them so that the student can ask as many questions as possible and deepen his understanding. In turn, the mentor is also encouraged to share his Masonic experience and knowledge of the Craft so that he can inspire his student to pursue his own experiences in the fraternity. This dynamic—mentor and student learning together—often forms a bond that lasts well beyond the Master Mason Degree. In addition to the time requirements, and perhaps more importantly, the student is still required to exemplify the memory portion of the work in open Lodge, including the obligation and modes of recognition.
W H AT I S R E Q U I R E D Ce r t i fi e d Fe l l o w s of t h e C ra f t Me n to r To start, Brothers who are willing to be proficiency mentors are required to be certified as Fellows of the Craft Mentors. If you are not certified, the certification process is easy and only requires that you attend an hour-long class where you will receive materials and guidance to fulfill your task as a Fellows of the Craft Mentor. Contact me via email at dpalileo@oregonfreemasonry.com for more information on the certification process. Fe l l o w s of t h e C ra f t Ma te r i a l s Mentors will also need physical copies of the materials that they received during their training. These materials include: • The Mentor Manual, which contains instructions and answers to the questions found in each student book. • Candidate kits for each degree, to be given to the candidate immediately after each degree conferral. Yo u r W o r s h i p f u l Master’s Permission Your Lodge’s Worshipful Master must be made aware if a newly initiated Brother is having difficulty in memorizing the traditional proficiency work. Before embarking on the actual Fellows of the Craft process, a mentor must first secure the Worshipful Master’s permission to teach the program to the Brother and provide updates on his progress. This is especially important when he exemplifies the memory portion of his proficiency in open Lodge.
"This dynamic— mentor and student learning together—often forms a bond that lasts well beyond the Master Mason Degree."
FINAL THOUGHTS The Fellows of the Craft program is an effective, wellproven way for Lodges to advance their candidates through the degrees while maintaining the educational integrity of Freemasonry. It offers an alternative for those who struggle with memorization and creates a firm foundation of understanding for any Brother seeking more Light. When used as intended, the program strengthens mentorship, deepens learning, and enriches the candidate’s experience, building better Masons and stronger Lodges.
JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 11
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
LEG IS L ATI ON DE ADLINE JAN. 5, 2026 PROP OS ED LEG IS L ATI ON IS DUE TO THE G R A ND SECRE TA RY ’ S OFFI CE .
ADVANCED SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION
Saturday, February 21, 2026 @ 9 a.m. Beaverton Masonic Lodge No. 100 4690 SW Watson Ave., Beaverton Instruction by Grand Lecturer Dale B. Palileo. Focusing exclusively on the second section of the Master Mason Degree. Open to Master Masons only. Doors open at 8 a.m. RSVP to Secretary@BeavertonMasons.org Please note: We recommend arriving early for street parking. The library parking lot is unavailable. You and your family are invited to join Corvallis Lodge No. 14 in celebrating the 267th anniversary of the birth of Brother Robert Burns, "the Bard of Scotland"
— Saturday, January 17, 2026
SEND US YOUR LODGE NEWS!
A wee dram o'twafrae 4 p.m. dinner a' 6 p.m. $25/person or $40/couple — RSVP by January 12 to Micheil Wallace micheil.wallace14@gmail.com
12 |
O R EG O N M A S O N I C N E W S
Correction
Please note that the December 2025 OMN has the following correction. In R.W.B Richard D. Varner’s article, it incorrectly states “the current lease between Grand Lodge and Jennings McCall ends in April 2028”. The statement should read “ The Jennings McCall loan is estimated to be paid off by the end of April 2028”. The sentence regarding the significant net revenue is not applicable to the loan.
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Reminders for Incoming Lodge Officers
As new corps of officers are installed Senior Wardens must be ready at in our Lodges, a few reminders may help all times to assume the duties of the make this year more productive. Worshipful Master. Circumstances For all officers, I cannot stress strongly can change suddenly, and every officer enough the importance of studying should be prepared to step up. The the Code, Ritual, Officer’s Handbook, Lodge calendar should also begin and Etiquette Book. Many problems taking shape early, as requests for Grand can be avoided when these resources Master’s visits, anniversaries, or service are consulted before action is taken. recognitions need to be made in advance. Practices remembered from the past, seen Junior Wardens should begin in another Lodge, or used in another planning for their year in the East now. jurisdiction are not always correct for Calendars fi ll quickly, and identifying Lodges in our jurisdiction. upcoming service milestones, such as The Worshipful Master bears primary 50-year or greater awards, takes foresight responsibility for peace and harmony and preparation. within the Lodge. When situations or Appointed officers are encouraged relationships arise that may negatively to closely observe the work of principal affect the Lodge, it is his duty to officers and volunteer for tasks that will address them before they fester, always prepare them for future roles. Studying mindful of the obligation to avoid the Ritual and Officer’s Handbook for private piques and quarrels. Equally the next senior position is wise. important is involving junior officers in the work of the Lodge. Giving Brothers Fraternally, opportunities to stretch and grow will R.W.B. Richard D. Varner strengthen the Lodge in the years ahead. Deputy Grand Master
Mike Thomas Recognized as Representative to GL of Ireland
W.B. Jeremiah T. Pruitt (left) presented W.B. Michael J. Thomas (right) with his framed patent from the Grand Lodge of Ireland, recognizing him as the Grand Representative from the Grand Lodge of Oregon.
Find Master Mason resources on Grand View The Code • Ritual • Officer's Handbook • Etiquette Book
1851
2026
Esoterika Fe l l o w s h i p O u t i n g
We Wa n t t o H e a r from Lodges!
Share something unique or historical about your Lodge as we gather stories for the 175th celebration in Sept. 2026. Contact Marissa Douglas, mdouglas@oregonfreemasonry.com
Roger B. Blamire Recognized
M.W.B Michael J. McGuyer, P.G.M. and R.W.B. Marvin "Marty" C. Hardin, District Deputy No. 8, presented W.B. Roger B. Blamire with his 50-Year Jewel award. W.B. Blamire is 92 years young.
On Saturday, November 15, Esoterika's Pipe & Cigar Club held its second fellowship meeting at Rich's Cigar Store in downtown Portland. Esoterika members pictured from left to right: Bro. Christopher B. Ritzau, Bro. Giacomo R. Adragna, W.B. Adam M. Bayer, W.B. Jason C. Conway, and R.W.B. Zachary A. Keirsey, District Deputy No. 3. Not pictured is Bro. Chris P. Lachmann. JA N UA RY 2 0 26
| 13
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
PAID
The Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon 2150 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116
SALEM OR PERMIT NO. 526
Change service requested
Scan this QR Code for a quick link to the other issues of the OMN.
BOOK YOUR JOURNE Y TO WASHINGTON D.C . D E A D LI N E: JANUARY 26 Travel with the Grand Master to Washington, D.C.! Join us for an unforgettable Masonic journey to our nation’s capital from April 26 – May 1, 2026. Explore historic sites, deepen your Masonic bonds, and experience Washington, D.C. like never before — alongside fellow Oregon Masons and guests. Highlights include: • George Washington Masonic National Memorial • House of the Temple Tour • Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mt. Vernon • And much more! Scan this QR code to view the full itinerary & details.
Join us Apr. 26 – 6 May 1, 202
Reserve your spot early — space is limited! Contact Micki Downey (CST #2081830-40) micki@starandcompass.com | (408) 482-9023