Perry Lodge No. 185

Belated Happy New Year, Brethren!

Thanks to Brother Brian Whitehill for hosting a "Cool" bonfire October 16th. Temps were a bit chilly but the bonfire was blazing and the dogs were hot, and we watched college football on the big screen outside.

Our Election and Installation of Officers were held on November 3rd and December 8th respectively. Our new officers are: Dan Lewis - Worshipful Master; Brian Mint - Senior Warden; Michael Caldwell - Junior Warden; Jim Forney - Treasurer; Ted Lyda - Secretary; Brent Spangler - Senior Deacon; Ryan Barrett - Junior Deacon; Mat Arnoto - Senior Steward; Garrett Yoder - Junior Steward; Jerry Lyda, Jr.  - Tyler; Steve Faber - Chaplain; Brad Lankford - Lodge Education Officer. Congratulations to all! THANKS!

After Installation of Officers, Most Worshipful Brother Kevin Todd, Past Grand Master of Ohio, presented service pins and certificates to WB Freddie Henderson (60 yr) and retired Colonel Bob McCluggage (65 yr) to recognize them for their many years of service to Masonry. A few days earlier, Right Worshipful Tony Boggs and WB Rick Sekely presented Brother Dick Dougherty his (65 yr) pin and certificate at his home as he was unable to attend Lodge that evening. After the awards presentation, a Memorial Service was conducted for the five brethren who passed in 2021: John Barnhouse, Gilbert Bartha, Bob Chapel, David Linton and James Smith. May they rest peacefully in the Celestial Lodge Above.

We would like to welcome Don Sheen and his tow sons, Don Sheen, Jr. and Lonnie Sheen, and Bob Yeager to Perry Lodge. They became members of Perry Lodge in December of 2021. Also welcome to Paul Wagner who received his Master Mason Degree in December.

The new year is starting off well with WM Dan Lewis as out fearless leader. It looks like we will have a few new candidates turning in their petitions soon, which will keep us busy with degree work for the next several months.

Our Inspection this year will be on March 30th in the Master Mason Degree. Several Lodges have held closed Inspections due to Covid19, but our intention is to have an open Inspection unless the Grand lodge of Ohio mandates otherwise. We may ask that masks and social distancing are used.

This year's Perry Lodge Gun Raffle will be held on May 14. Tickets will be $10* and will be mailed to all our members in the next few weeks with details included. Please support our Lodge and buy a few tickets.

Fraternally,

WB Rick Sekely

*If you are interested in Gun Raffle tickets and are not a member, go to our Contact page and let us know how many you would like and what the best way would be for us to get them to you. For any other questions or comments always feel free to reach out to us in one of the multiple ways provided. 

A New Masonic Year

 Perry Lodge 171st Annual Installation

Back Row: WB Jim Forney; WB Ron Lankford; WB Tom Wright; WM Dan Lewis; JW Michael Caldwell; WB Alonzo Potts - Front Row: WB Jim Hall; JS Garrett Yoder; JD Ryan Barrett; WB Steve Faber; SW Brian Mint;

Br. Jerry Lyda, Jr.; SD Brent Spangler; MWB Kevin Todd; RWB Anthony Boggs; WB Rik Linebaugh

On Wednesday December 8, 2021 Perry Lodge No. 185 hosted their 171st Installation of Officers at the Salem Masonic Temple in Salem, Ohio. In a ceremony open to the public, the new officers were installed into their positions, many in the presence of some of their family and friends.

Toward the end of the ceremony Worshipful Master Dan Lewis gave the officers the opportunity to show appreciation to family and friends that came with them that night to give their support. Men graciously pointed out their wives, fiances, children, parents and brethren. As easy as it may be to overlook sometimes, Masons would not be able to accomplish what we do, or have the brotherhood that Freemasonry has provided over the years, if it wasn't for the strong support of our families. And for that, we are very grateful.

We also had some distinguished guests that we were honored to have a part of our ceremony: Most Worshipful Brother Kevin Todd, Past Grand Master of Masons of Ohio; Right Worshipful Brother Anthony Boggs, District Deputy Grand Master;  Worshipful Brother Jim Hall, District Education Officer; and Worshipful Brother Rik Linebaugh, 24th District Association President.

The newly elected Perry Lodge officers are as follows:

        Worshipful Master ~ WB Dan Lewis

        Senior Warden ~ Brian Mint

        Junior Warden ~ Michael Caldwell

        Treasurer ~ WB Jim Forney

        Secretary ~ Ted Lyda, Jr.

        Senior Deacon ~ Brent Spangler

        Junior Deacon ~ Ryan Barrett

        Senior Steward ~ Mat Arnoto

        Junior Steward ~ Garrett Yoder

        Tyler ~ Jerry Lyda, Jr.

        Lodge Education Officer ~ WB Ron Lankford

Over the last few years, Perry has grown quite a bit. We have gotten new  faces, new ideas and renewed vigor. If you read the description of our lodge given on Facebook it reads "Perry Lodge is a group of great guys who share common interests. It's our desire to express the tenants of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth." Hopefully how we live our lives as a part of our families and through the various ways our Lodge interacts with our local community, we express these tenants and show those around us that we care, and doing so, we just might help make the world a better place.

If you're interested in finding out more about Perry Lodge No. 185, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Happy Holidays from Perry Lodge

 

Thanksgiving is over and the turkey leftovers have been eaten or left to the garbage disposal. The time of anxious shopping and rushing around is upon us once again.

Christmas lights are everywhere. The occasional, and beautiful falling snow. Christmas music is playing in the stores and restaurants. The Salvation Army with their ringing bells and red kettles. Santa in the parade, the mall...and soon to be in your house. Hot cocoa and Christmas trees. It's truly a season of magic.

Those of us who are parents, especially of young children, love the look they get on their faces when they see Santa in the parade or at the mall, or the excitement they get on Christmas morning as they rush into the living room to find their presents  underneath the tree. You can see the light in their eyes as they tear the wrapping paper off the gifts just waiting to see what's inside. If you're a spouse, or have a partner, just watching him or her open that special, perfect gift that you actually spent the time to searching for makes your heart flutter. It kinda brings back that magic for you, even for just a moment, doesn't it?

As my wife and I stood on the sidewalk with my two children watching our town's parade last night, there was a fellow lodge brother across the street and another brother a little further down. Two Masonic lodges were represented in the parade along with various charities, organizations and businesses who exist to help people.

I mentioned the Salvation Army. I think they tend to be one that we are most familiar with come the holiday season.  Every year they donate money, clothing and food to needy people and families that have little to nothing.

Anyone that has worked in the medical field, or counseling, can tell you that for some people the holidays are the hardest parts of the year. Sometimes it's because a loved one died close to Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's. Or, it could be that it's just too lonely now since that loved one has passed away.  When you see the van from the local retirement home or nursing home drive through the parade and the people inside are smiling and waving, make sure you smile and wave back. This could be one of their favorite things to do.

All too often as human beings we find ourselves rushing through life, and through the year, from day to day paying bills and making money. And before long, that becomes our life. Then, once the holidays hit, it's hard to truly slow down and enjoy them so it just becomes a shift from one excuse to another. Instead it's a different rush. We're working overtime so we can buy more gifts. We don't have time to stop and say 'hi' while we're shopping because we  have too many gifts to buy and too many stores yet. And so the trend continues.

Wow! That took a quick turn from decorations to Sunday morning sermon.

So what's the point? Definitely not to ruin the idea of celebrating. The point is maybe consider adding onto your celebration. I know, 'Add more to my already busy schedule?' It's not much. I promise. If you don't already, drop some money into the red kettle the next time to walk into a store where you see one. Maybe consider caroling to some people who could use some Christmas cheer, or send out some cards or a letter to let someone know you are thinking about them. 

As we said earlier, the holidays can be very difficult for some people, especially for elderly people who either can't get out, or who have lost their spouse.

Believe me. I'm a full-time working husband, father and Mason. I also have multiple things that I do on the side. I understand what it means to get busy, distracted, rushed and, yes, sometimes frustrated - especially around the holidays. It's in times like this that I  have to slow myself down and realize that my family, and doing things for others, is what's most important. Easy right?

With Christmas just a couple weeks away, take some time to find something to do with your family - go to a holiday event, look for Christmas lights, go ice skating, go out for a family dinner.

Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is one of the best-selling classic novels, and now best-selling Christmas movies of all time. I think one of the best lines from that story that may apply here is the conversation between Scrooge and Jacob Marley.

Scrooge to Marley's Ghost: But you were always a good man of business.

Jacob Marley: Business? Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business. Charity, mercy, forbearance and benevolence all my business.

 Hopefully we never get caught in the trap of thinking that just because they aren't our children, or parents, or siblings that we should just ignore them and continue on our way. Every day Scrooge would pass those in need without even a care, or even a glance. The poorhouses, the prisons and the factories were for the poor. He refused to give in order to better their situation.

Giving isn't just acknowledged by money, although that is one way, yes. The true spirit of Christmas is the giving of one's time, a smile, a simple "how are you?", or a homemade pie. Not just in the week or two before Christmas, but all year long. And if you haven't watched A Christmas Carol I highly recommend you watch it, especially as a family movie night.

From Perry Lodge No. 185 in Salem, Ohio

Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 

 

 

 

 

20 Years Later; We Still Remember

These are words that we have heard or said so many times that their meaning and impact is nearly forgotten. For many of us these words became popular not long after September 11, 2001. As a nation we made the solemn vow that We Will Never Forget. We would never forget the tragedy. Never forget the fear and discouragement we all felt. Never forget the 2,977 civilians, public safety and military that lost their lives that horrible day. But, unfortunately, an idea we don't often include in the motto Never Forget is the promise to always remember and strive for the unity that we had shortly after September 11th.

From around the country people arrived in New York City in an attempt to somehow help in the midst of all the devastation. Fire Departments, EMS Departments, Red Cross, Salvation Army, and many more sent in volunteers to help. Whether it was searching for people who were missing or serving food to the rescue workers, a compassion for their fellow man was already being shown on the night of 9/11.

September 12th saw a new day in the United States. Schools made sure the day was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Pictures flooded the media of children and parents walking the streets waving flags. A new sense of patriotism arose as thousands of young men and women felt it was their duty to join the service in defense of our country. And out of it all, nobody cared if you were black or white, Christian or Atheist, Republican or Democrat. We were all Americans. As Mr. David Beamer has said multiple times, we need to remember that unity and work to bring it back.

Since 9/11/01 we've gone from Republican to Democrat, back to Republican then back to Democrat. We saw protests throughout the country and statues torn down. We've seen riots in the streets. And we have seen more division over the previous few years than possibly in all of American history. Families and friends have turned against each other over disagreements on political and moral issues. Where do we draw the line?

Of course there will always be disagreements over religion, politics, moral issues and personal ethics. But, one thing the United States was founded on, and has become known for, is that we as Americans can disagree on every possible issue and still be Americans. The Declaration of Independence tells us that each person has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. How each of us strives to live out those tenants that our Founding Fathers agreed should be available to each and every human being is up to every one of us.

In a world, and country, where we struggle to understand another's views or opinions, remember we are all individuals, which gives us the right and privilege to have our own ideas. But, it never gives us the right to hate, disregard, mistreat or disrespect any fellow human being because they hold a different philosophy than our own.

Show tolerance to those you disagree with. Show kindness to those around you. Give forgiveness whether or not you think someone deserves it. Strengthen friendships. Build relationships. Reach out to those who are struggling in life. Hold onto your family and friends because you never know what day will be your, or their last. If those who died on September 11, 2001 could speak to us now I believe this is what they would tell us.

In Freemasonry we have what we refer to as the three tenants of our profession - Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. These are three factors that should help every Mason throughout life as they make decisions in personal relationships and in business. Yet, they are ideas that every individual can, and should, practice in their own lives. Even when we don't understand why someone is the way they are, show love. Show compassion and give assistance as much as you can to those who need it. And in truth, no matter our religious beliefs, we all understand that a human being is unique. Everyone wants, and deserves, to be treated as unique.

As we arrive at the 20th Anniversary of September 11, 2001, let us Never Forget...the rescue workers, the civilians who volunteered their time to serve, the thousands that lost their lives that day and the unity that came out of tragedy.

So, 20 Years later, hopefully we can say We Remember and We Will Never Forget. If we could come together after such a horrific day, then surely we can recognize that we are a country of many different religions, political views and backgrounds. And through all that we are currently facing, may God help us find "unity in diversity".

Cracking the Code: The Untapped Gold Mine of Freemasonry

 

For so many years Freemasonry has been the center of public and religious controversy, rumors and conspiracy theories. Eventually, Masonry started remaining quite instead of trying to provide a defense against the rumors and theories. The idea being, people's minds won't change not matter what we as Mason's say. Unfortunately, there is some truth to that. But, that is not the topic of this blog.

Personally, before I joined Masonry, I knew nothing about the fraternity. I was raised in a strict Christian home where we were taught that Freemasonry is a secret society and a Satanic cult. They were in opposition to Christianity and part of the Occult. In spite of this teaching, I still had a strong interest in Freemasonry that I couldn't explain.

Being one who is passionate about history, I understood that Freemasons played a major part in the American Revolution and the founding of our country up through the present day. Even though I didn't know much about them, the fact that so many influential men who helped formed such an amazing country were members, made me think that there must be something to this fraternity.

I moved to Salem, Ohio in 2015. I was 25 years old. I couldn't help but notice the Masonic Temple on State Street in the middle of town, which seemed to increase my desire to find out what Freemasonry was all about.

At the beginning of the summer in 2016, I called the Grand Lodge of Ohio to see if I could get contact info for the local lodge and that started my journey in Masonry. I was initiated on September 26, 2016 at Perry Lodge No. 185 in Salem. I am now a 32 degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of York Rite.

My mind was blown from the very beginning. Not only was it the complete opposite of what many had told me, but it started an exciting new chapter in my life. I've grown so much as an individual since I joined. Not only does Masonry provide me with an amazing brotherhood and trustworthy friends, but the lessons we learn through lodge and from each other has continued to strengthen my personal faith, not detract from it.

Because of books and movies like Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code, the Last Templar and National Treasure,  everyone knows the legend of the Knight Templars and King Solomon's treasure. Many have read the stories of the fall of the Templars in 1291 and their later disbanding and execution. Conspiracies that the Freemasons carried on the secrets of the Templars and control the remaining treasure are abundant. In fact, you could probably spend weeks watching the amount of conspiracy videos and movies put out about the Masons.

I like the way Brother Benjamin Franklin summed up the "wealth" of Freemasonry:

For Freemasons, it's not about getting rich, powerful and influencing the government for our benefit. When we read American history we see Masonic brothers like Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, Dr. Joseph Warren, Ethan Allen, Roger Sherman and many more. Many of Washington's spies and generals were also Freemasons.

Contrary to some opinions, the United States was not shaped by Freemasonry. But, many Freemasons did help form this great country. It's easy to believe, that their Masonic experience and values, backed by their faith, is what moved them to step forward and fight for what they believed in. It's easy for us to look back and hold these men, their wives and children up as if they were superheroes. In fact, they were heroes in their own right, but they were also everyday men and women like you and I. They were farmers, business owners, doctors, lawyers and clergymen. The Continental Congress was not made up of experienced politicians, but of hardworking, common men that wanted to make a difference.

The tenants of Freemasonry are Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. That also extends beyond the fraternity and into our communities. That's why we see so many Masonic lodges that give back to the community whether through food drives, blood drives, donating to charities, etc. Many Masons still serve in government - whether local, state or federal - and in organizations like the Red Cross, American Heart Association, public safety, shelters and food banks because they understand something very important about themselves and Masonry.

The reason why is simple. We realize what the Creator has done for us, and what others do for us and people around them, and bound by our duty as Masons and our faith, we strive to help those in need and support our communities.

So, maybe to the disappointment of some, Freemasonry isn't out to rule the world; it isn't hiding the secret of where King Solomon's gold is hidden. Freemasonry doesn't make you wealthy, powerful or famous. The true gold of Freemasonry is the values, morals and lessons it teaches and the application of them to our personal spiritual lives.

In closing, throughout the years, Freemasonry has impacted generations of leaders, political and religious, and influencers that have changed their local communities, their country and the world. Never underestimate the effect you may have on those around you. Great change always begins with the individual. Focus on making a difference in your local area. If done for the right reasons, before long, it will have a ripple effect.

"The world today requires moral and spiritual regeneration. I have no doubt, after many years as a member of our Order, that Freemasonry can play a part in this vital need."

~ King George VI of England

 

Roof of the World Lodge No. 1094

 

This 1914 photograph shows members from Roof the World Lodge No. 1094 at the summit of Mt. Meiggs in Peru.

The Grand Lodge of Scotland chartered the Roof of the World Lodge in Cerro de Pasco, Peru in 1911. Considered the highest Masonic lodge in the world, the group met at an altitude of 14,208 feet above sea level. American executives and engineers employed by various mines and construction camps in Peru made up much of the membership. In 1914 the Lodge requested a special dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland permitting them to hold a regular lodge meeting at the summit of Mt. Meiggs in the Peruvian Andes at an altitude of about 17,575 feet. The dispensation was granted and on August 29, 1914 twenty-six Master Masons held, according to some, the highest regular meeting of its kind in the history of Freemasonry. The photo above commemorates that 1914 meeting.

Because of its geographical location, Roof of the World Lodge has always contained a membership of unique diversity. During World War I this led to frequent embarrassment in the matter of attendance. For instance, the following notation is included in the minutes of January 5, 1918:

"The Secretary read a letter from the Grand Lodge concerning the admission of Brethren of alien birth to meetings: also a certificate on behalf of Grand Committee giving power to this lodge to admit to meetings...." certain named Brethren.

 Almost from the beginning there has been repeated agitation for a transfer of jurisdiction. To this end, communications were addressed to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and the subject was discussed at regular Communications time and again over a period of years. Finally on September 6, 1919, it was

"...unanimously voted to petition the Grand Lodge of Scotland and Massachusetts to take such necessary steps whereby our present charter under the Grand Lodge of Scotland may be cancelled and a new charter be granted us under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of of the State of Massachusetts."

 The petition was prepared accordingly. In the end, however, the project was dismissed in view of the considerable expense which would have been involved in the purchase of new aprons, jewels, rituals and other necessary regalia.

In 1929 the lodge was moved from Cerro de Pasco to La Oroya, where a suitable hall for the purpose had been built in the Inca Club. The last meeting in Cerro de Pasco and the first in La Oroya were both held on April 6, 1929. The meetings have since been held in La Oroya at an altitude of 12,270 feet.

The widespread depression of the early 30's was felt in Peru. The lodge was called repeatedly for financial aid for needy Brethren and their families. At the meeting of May 17, 1932, consideration was given to the matter of back dues. There were many members who were in arrears for two to five years, and some even longer. Several months later, because of the fluctuating value of the Peruvian Sol, was decided that, henceforth, all dues were to be paid in the United Stated currency, except those who were unable to obtain U.S. currency.

In harmony with the rules of the Scottish jurisdiction, Roof of the World Lodge does not drop members for non-payment of dues. Though nothing is heard from members for years, and though his whereabouts may be unknown, his name stays on the membership roster. If he wanted to be restored to active membership, this could be done by him paying his dues from the previous three years. Life membership can be obtained for a certain fee for those who no longer live in Peru. Of the current membership, approximately fifty are life members.

The Mark Master Degree was conferred from time to time. The minutes speak of one meeting when the degree was conferred on four Brethren, two of whom were members of Roof of the World Lodge. That night there were present visiting officers and Brethren from sister lodges near the coast.

The financial outlook was now much brighter and the minutes report:

"The Right Worshipful Master suggested that having a Scotchman as Treasurer might be one of the principal reasons for the success financially."

A Special Communication was held on December 17, 1937 for the purpose of assisting a number of Peruvian Masons in forming a new lodge in La Oroya named Andina Lodge No. 27 chartered under the Grand Lodge of Peru. The Grand Master Diez Canseco of Peru, who later became President of the Senate, was in attendance for the occasion. Andina Lodge was dedicated in 1939 and since then the two lodges have cooperated together closely in various social and fraternal activities.

Great enthusiasm and activity became evident in 1947 with frequent meetings and constant reception of new Brothers. Social events, which had been neglected due to World War II, had taken on a new excited interest. A picnic and potluck were held on Sunday May 18th. A special train ran from Malpaso for the occasion and approximately two hundred people were present.

Stated Meetings are held third Tuesday of every month, and special meetings as occasion may require.

Our Fixed Point of Reference

Let’s imagine I am in a humongous, dark room. It’s a featureless room. It doesn’t even have corners in it. It has round walls. The whole point of that is, I don't even know where I am.

I’m feeling my way around in this room. I’m groping around in the darkness, trying to find where I am. Suddenly, I feel something in front of me. It’s a chair! Yes! Ah! Yes! It has … it has legs and it has braces and it has a back. It’s a chair! Ah! Good! Now I can sit here. At least I know where I am. I’m in the chair. Ah, it’s a good feeling! It’s a home base. I can navigate from this chair. All I have to do I carry this chair with me and I'll always know where I am.

If you found yourself laughing it may be you realize how ridiculous this illustration is because you know that no fixed point of reference is going to do you any good unless it has two factors: 1) it has to be separate from youself, and 2) it cannot move.

As soon as I pick it up and make it a part of my me, make it a part of my consciousness, make it a part of my mobility, it isn't a fixed point of reference anymore! I’ll never know where I am, because the thing moves. As long as it stays right there and doesn't move, now that’s security!

That’s one of the prime factors of navigation, you know. When you’re out on a sailboat, you’re out on the vast, featureless expanse of ocean and you have no idea where you are, unless you have a tool of measurement, in this case, a sexton. A sexton is used to measure from the stars to tell one's location. The reason you can measure from the stars to figure out where you are is, because the stars don’t move. They’re fixed in space. Now, the earth moves and it makes it look like the stars move, but we know all that stuff. The stars themselves don’t move. But, if the stars were just floating around wherever they wanted, you wouldn’t know where you are. That’s a fixed point of reference.

All of us has had points in our life where it seemed like we were at our lowest point. We were miserable, weak and discouraged. What did you have to hold onto?

When a new initiate is brought into the lodge he is told to 'kneel for the benefit of prayer'. Before rising, he is asked,  'In whom do you place your trust?' In truth, the initiate should be able to answer, 'In God.' Then what? 'It is well. Your faith being well founded, arise, follow your guide and fear no danger.'

Without a fixed point of reference in our lives, we will be like the explorer lost in the depths of the cavern without a light; like the sailor out at sea with no understanding of his navigational instruments or how to read the stars.

As we progress through Blue Lodge we learn of the working tools of a Mason. Yet, of most importance, are the three Great Lights upon the altar in every lodge room--the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses.

The Holy Bible - to serve as our volume of Sacred Law and moral guide. The Square - to square our actions by the square of virtue. The Compasses - to circumscribe our desires and keep them within due bounds. As a Freemason, these provide a fixed point of reference for us. They should be our rule and guide for our conduct through life.

Without a fixed point of reference, not only can we not help ourselves, but we will be of no value to those around us or to our Craft.

Sources:

Illustration of the Chair as A Fixed Point of Reference taken from author Frank Peretti.