Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FREEMASON
VOL. 38 SPRING 2010 NUMBER 2
FREEMASON
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON is the Official
Publication of The Grand Lodge of the State of
Louisiana, F & A.M., 5800 Masonic Drive, Alex-
andria, Louisiana 71301. Published quarterly for
members of Lodges in Louisiana. U.S. rate only.
Mailed ‘Non-Profit Organization’ third class, prepaid
at Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON will accept unso-
licited articles, with the right to edit, and use when
space permits. Articles and pictures become the
property of the magazine. Authors are requested to
sign articles and include their name, address, phone
number and, if a member, the name of their Masonic Woody D. Bilyeu, Grand Master is a native
Lodge. Articles that are printed do not necessarily of Winnfield and member of Eastern Star
reflect the views of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana. Lodge #151.
Address Changes should be sent to the Lodge
Secretary who will notify the Grand Secretary on
the proper form. DO NOT send changes of address
to the Louisiana Freemason. Send all email, mail
and /or material for consideration for publication INSIDE THIS ISSUE
in the Louisiana Freemason to: Grand Master’s Message Page 3
W: Steven A. Pence, P.M. Editor
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON
105 Bayhills Dr., Where are the Designs on the
Benton, LA 71006 Trestleboard? Page 4
Email: storm52@bellsouth.net
by W: Bro Al Franks
A
s a young, new master mason in early 1970, I was still trying to learn
the meaning of the many words that I had been taught to recite in open
lodge. The words were there, in my head, and I could regurgitate them
on a moments notice, precisely and proficiently, just as my teacher had
placed them there. But so many of the words were from a language foreign to
the languages I knew at the time and I was struggling to learn the true meaning
of those words, their relationship to Freemasonry and the tenets of the order, and
their meaning to my life. I wanted to not only have the words in my head, I felt I
needed to have the meaning of those words in my heart to truly understand them
and to be able to live by them, as I had obligated myself to do.
My answer to the first question on the Petition for Degrees in Masonry was
“Yes.” But in my mind and heart, I was struggling with the concept of the existence
of a God. I had not long before returned from Vietnam. My experiences there,
the things I had seen and had been required to do there, were so horrible that even
my hard-shell Southern Baptist upbringing could not keep me from questioning
the existence of a God. The words I learned and recited as an Entered Apprentice,
Fellowcraft and Master Mason caused a deep conflict within me and I was strug-
gling to find the truth.
A member of my lodge, W. Brother V. Floyd Mauldin, was not only a senior
past master, but was very active in the Grand Lodge as a member of the Commit-
tee on Works and was a key leader in all of the bodies of masonry in the State of
Louisiana. Brother Mauldin worked at the Lafayette sanitation department. But on
Wednesday nights, he volunteered at the Salvation Army preaching to the homeless,
drug addicts, alcoholics and down and out members of our society. Floyd began
to take some special one-on-one time with me at lodge and invited me to his home
for private talks. Unknowing to me, Floyd was initiating the process whereby the
words in my head could begin the migration to my heart.
Floyd and I began meeting at the lodge at 5:30 P.M. on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays
of each month; lodge meeting nights. He would open the alter Bible to show me
the passages where much of our Masonic work is derived. As we exhausted the
passages pertaining to masonry, Floyd moved to other passages in the Bible that
defined struggles of others with the existence of God. He then moved on to the
New Testament that proclaimed the birth and life of Jesus Christ. Over the next
12 to 14 months, on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month, Floyd used that alter
Bible to show me the designs on the Trestleboard whereby I could pursue my la-
bor in building my life for God, country, family, neighbor and self. Those special
times at the lodge alter with a very special Brother mason is the primary reason I
continued next page
4
continued from previous page
Where Are the Designs on The Trestleboard:
rediscovered the path that still leads me today on my faith journey.
For the next 15 years I taught all 3 degrees, was degree master in a Scottish Rite
degree and became Master on my lodge in 1981. In 1982 I was District Deputy
Grand Master of the 11th Masonic District and in 1985 was Grand Marshal for
the Grand Lodge of Louisiana. I was very active in masonry until 1985 when my
employer decided that I had the appropriate skills for work in foreign countries. For
the next 19 years I lived in Africa, Europe, Asia and the state of Texas, often using
the truth, honor and fortitude I learned at the lodge alter. After retirement in 2001,
my wife and I decided to move back “home” and we returned to Lafayette.
I write all of the above only to briefly explain what it meant to me to have
someone to place designs on the trestleboard whereby I could pursue my labor and
how those designs influenced my life.
As I lived and traveled in foreign countries, I did not have an opportunity to at-
tend a Masonic lodge. However, I often went to sleep at night reciting to myself the
Masonic work and several lectures I had learned. I also thought about the special
time I had spent at the alter with Floyd and those memories heavily influenced my
conduct, professionally and personally.
The 19-year absence has afforded me a unique opportunity to see two snapshots
of masonry in Louisiana -- a view of 1985 masonry in Louisiana and then the next
picture of masonry as it is practiced in Louisiana in 2004. My vision of the two
snapshots has not been shaded or clouded by any events that occurred in masonry
in the state during those years in between. I have not been privy or party to any
occurrences that caused the change in the state of the Order during those years. I
only know what I see. Brethren, the two pictures look different.
Upon my return to Louisiana, I could not wait to get back to my lodge. I was
anxious to renew my acquaintance with the brethren and with masonry. Many
of my old friends were no longer with us -- they had passed away. And some
who I did not expect to see were still hobbling to the lodge twice a month. I was
surprised to see that at the age of 61, I was a “puppy” compared to the majority
of those attending lodge. As I traveled around the state I learned of discord and
disharmony, not only within the lodge, but also in the various Masonic bodies and
the Shrine. I saw brothers talking and acting in a manner that was evident they did
not remember their obligations. It did not take long to realize that the designs on
the trestleboard of some lodges were missing and the craft were not able to pursue
their labor. There was confusion in the temple.
As the years have passed, and we have lost so many of the caliber of V. Floyd
Mauldin, we have unfortunately also lost much of the knowledge that provided
the designs on the trestleboard. However, I am excited about the number of young
men who have petitioned for degrees in masonry and who are preceding through
all three degrees. Those of us who have had the privilege of being at the alter and
to work with the designs placed on the trestleboard by our mentors have the obli-
gation to pay it forward. We must remember our obligations and at all times act
continued on page 9
5
Unity in Freemasonry
By
W: William J. Mollere, Grand Chaplain
B
ehold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together
in unity…for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for
evermore.” Psalm 133. The Senior Deacon starts quoting that beautiful
Chapter written by David as he conducts a Seeker of Light in the Entered
Apprentice Degree past the Junior Warden,
the station represent- ing the noon-time of life,
adulthood, manhood attained, the beginning of
mature reflection of the value of life - this single
circumambulation is in- tended to emphasize “unity
among brethren”. Too often, the comma is forgot-
ten between “Behold” and “how” - for it is placed
there on purpose to remind everyone in the
room to pause and look around - Behold! Look around Brethren and open your
eyes to what we are all about - look and Behold how men of different ages, dif-
ferent backgrounds, different economic levels, different educational experiences,
different religions, different cultures, yet all Brothers, have all gathered to share
Freemasonry - something very special - with a candidate who will
very soon become a new Brother - Behold.
Then the Scripture verse goes forward to remind all that it is good,
enjoyable, pleasant to come together as one - unity of purpose, unity
in fellowship, unity through Brotherhood. The words between the
first and last phrases mentioned above are meant as symbols of the
Holiness of Unity. God anoints His chosen one, through His priests
or prophets, with a holy ointment or oil that is blessed, poured and
running from the top of the head, down the entire body “to the skirts
of his garments” - the bottom of his body; his entire being, all of him.
The symbolism is saying, God wants all of you, your entire being, to
join together with your brethren and live in peace, in love, in unity.
The Chapter of Scripture is given at the beginning of the Journey of a
man into Freemasonry, and it also enjoins him to look around at those
whom he has chosen to join, to attempt his very best to live a good life
in peace, in love, in unity with them and with all with whom he comes
into contact thereafter. The verse is intended for both the candidate and
for those assembled participating in the Degree or observing through
the fellowship of the gathering.
Too many times we have heard that verse in the Entered Apprentice
Degree and forgotten that each of us has had the holy ointment placed
upon our head and it has run down our body, and we have forgotten to live according
continued next page
6
continued from previous page
Focus On Masonry:
to what we heard, what we promised on bended knee, what we started out trying
to live - peace, love, unity. We disagree and argue over issues that do not truly
matter in the grand scheme of life. We speak evil
of another Brother; we do not visit or call a
sick Brother, or his fam- ily. We do not share
the gift of friendship with the Brother sitting next
to us or across the room. We forget. We do not
listen; we must re-learn and hear, to Behold. Let
us rededicate ourselves to living that Chapter of
Scripture every day, in ev- ery way, in everything
that we do. We have been given a great gift - Freemasonry. Unity makes that gift
a greater Lord’s blessing. Behold, let us dwell together in Unity.
The Louisiana Masonic License Plates are ready to order! The charities of The
Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana, F & AM receive 100% of the extra cost as-
sociated with this special license plate. You do not loose any equity in your current
plate and this will be good public exposure for Freemasonry. The new Library &
Museum Foundation will be one of the recipients of these new funds.
All of the ordering information is available from the computer or you may go
to your local Office of Motor Vehicles to purchase.
To order online:
8
continued from page 5
Where Are the Designs on The Trestleboard:
accordingly. So many of us joined the Masonic order because we knew a man who
was a mason who was a good man and his life was one we wanted to emulate. We
need to remember that our actions shine like a lighthouse, not only to our brethren,
but also to those who are not yet masons.
I have been privileged to know several men in my life that I knew were masons
before we ever exchanged any recognition. How did I know them to be such? I
could tell by their actions and speech; how they carried themselves; how they talked
about their wife and family; how they talked about their faith, their country.
At one time, too long ago, everyone knew who masons in their community
were. These men were the leaders of the community; they were Sunday school
teachers, pastors, newspaper owners and editors, educators, Boy Scout leaders,
respected members who everyone looked to for advice and leadership; and, yes,
even sanitation workers. These were men who placed designs on the trestleboard
for others to read and understand about how they should live their lives to serve
God, country, family, neighbor and self. Where have those men gone?
Masonry, for a while, has hid our light under a bushel basket; for what reason
I do not know. The square and compasses are visible on all lodge buildings. We
wear rings and lapel pins telling everyone we see that we are masons. But when
someone asks about our fraternity, what do we tell them? Do we fumble around for
words because we do not really know what
masonry is about? Have we not taken the
time to read and fully understand the de-
signs on the trestleboard whereby we can
pursue our labor, which includes leading
other good men into the fraternity?
Brethren, we need a resurrection in Ma-
sonry that will only come when we all live
our lives according to the obligations and
principles of this great fraternity. I firmly
believe that we are in the early stages of
an opportunity for a rebirth of the Masonic
order. But we all need to be vigilant in our
demeanor in our lodges, churches, work
place, social gathering and our everyday
encounter with others. We need to set
the example whereby others can find the
designs on the trestleboard so they can
pursue their labor in their lives; whether
it is in the Masonic lodges or elsewhere. Brother, be that example.
9
Feast of Tishri
by
C. B. Griggs, PM Cadeville Lodge #229
T
o really understand and perceive the feast of Tishri as a Speculative Mason, we
need to understand the beginning feast as practiced by our ancient brethren and
Israelite population. In the 23rd Chapter of Leviticus, God told Moses to instruct
the Israelites, when they entered the land they were promised and completed
their first harvest, to bring a portion of it to the priest. He further told them when
this should occur, the duration and to cause a celebration. This was to last seven days, in
the month of Tishri.
This practice was begun and was an annual celebration in which the Israelites practiced
in the communities. They gave thanks to God for deliverance from Egypt, their harvests and
many other blessings. The celebration came to be known as the Feast of Tabernacles and/or
the Feast of Succoth. It was marked by building small dwellings made from branches thus
reminding them of the time spent in the wilderness for 40 years in temporary houses.
After entering the Promised Land and the period of Judges, God gave them a King, at
their request. This first king was Saul, who was a disaster, followed by David. David was
the first to establish a religious center of capital at Jerusalem, the City of David. This meant
the population traveled to Jerusalem for these festivals. King Solomon followed his father
and built the House for God, the temple. We know the story, the completion in seven years.
At this completion, the dedication was delayed for six months until the Feast of Tishri, at
which time King Solomon knew the most zealous Jews would be in Jerusalem for the an-
nual festival. In essence, he took advantage on an ongoing festival and piggybacked the
dedication of the Temple. Of course, he was the wisest.
So, to us, the Feast of Tishri was used to celebrate the completion of the Temple and
became one of importance to the Operative Masons of the day. The Feast of Tishri then
became a Masonic celebration, which we as Speculative Masons have adopted today, par-
ticularly as Scottish Rite Masons. If you are not aware of the magnitude of this undertaking,
refresh your knowledge. The preparation of the materials; transported over sea and land;
assembled on site; and the sheer problems encountered in supervision without cell phones,
fax machines and the technology we have today. Solomon was proud of the first House of
God and showed that pride by making this a time of celebration.
The question, do we as Speculative Masons have a Feast of Tishri, one that relates to
us as does the current one celebrate the completion of the Temple of whom King Solomon
was the builder? To me, the answer is yes. The basis for this is the teaching as given in the
Louisiana Masonic Monitor. I specifically make reference to the section in the Fellowcraft
Degree, in which we are instructed in the relationship and differences found in and between
Operative and Speculative Masons.
We are told that an Operative Mason is a builder who directs his labors to the construction
of a material edifice, composed of stone, brick and mortar; which like all things temporal,
must sooner or later, must succumb to the inevitable ravages of time. However, the Opera-
tive Mason does have a ground breaking and ribbon cutting to celebrate the beginning and
completion of his building and so should we as Speculative Masons have a celebration as
we finish our Temple.
We are then told “The Speculative Mason, therefore, is a moral builder for eternity,
fitting immortal nature for that spiritual building which shall exist when earth’s proudest
monumental piles shall have crumbled into dust, and the glory and greatness of earth shall
continued next page
10
continued from previous page
Feast of Tishri
have been forgotten”.
What a contrast! We as Speculative Masons are builders whose work will be known after
the works of Operative Masons have been forgotten. And, if the completion of the works
of the Operative Masons deserve a celebration, then certainly the works of the Speculative
Mason are to be celebrated.
Have we celebrated our Feast of Tishri as Speculative Masons? No, at least I have not
nor have you by my interpretation. I go now to another section of our Monitor. The section
explaining the letter G. We are told “If we study the mystic meaning of this specific letter,
we will learn to model our life after the divine plan.” That is our behavior will be God
like and thus instructed, we will strive (work) to be one with God in the spirit of Love and
Charity. Have you heard this before? Yes, in short, use the Holy Bible as the rule and guide
to your faith and practice.
Further, we are told, if you have been admitted to the Middle Chamber, you should heed
these lessons and consider that as a Freemason, you are a Builder, not a material structure but
a temple more glorious than that of Solomon, a temple of honor, justice, purity, knowledge
and truth. The tools of the Operative Mason’s art are an indicator of the labors the Specula-
tive Mason is to perform, the dangers he is to encounter and the preparations he is to make
in the uprearing (erecting) of that spiritual temple in which his soul shall find rest forever,
forever more...Eternity. Stop and contemplate. More glorious than the Temple of Solomon!
Could it really be? Yes it can and will be.
We started out with a feast of celebration and we are not there yet. This will occur as
described in our Entered Apprentice Degree. Remember the presentation of the lambskin
Apron. I will be brief, but will ask you to recall these words “...and from your nerveless
grasp shall drop forever the working tools of life, may the records of your life and conduct
be as pure and spotless as this fair emblem which I place in your hands. And when your
trembling soul shall stand naked and alone before that Great White Throne, there to receive
judgement for deeds done here while in the body, may it be your portion to hear from Him
who sitteth as Judge Supreme the welcome words, “well done thy good and faithful servant,
thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Welcome
thou into the joy of the Lord”. It is your and my responsibility to present ourselves such
this can be our reward.
To the reader. No agreement is required. Just remember, this is what 61 years of study-
ing the writings of Masonry, the Rule and Guide and what I have picked up on the way,
means to me.
11
13th MASONIC DISTRICT LODGE
Fairfields Lodge #425 hosted the 4th
quarter meeting for of the 13th District
Lodge and annual installation of officers
for 2010. M: W: Bro Harold G Ballard,
PGM served as Installing Master.
The 13th District sent a monetary gift
to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank
to help support efforts in the eleven
Front Row L:R Robert Smith-SW, John Wil- parish area.
liams-JW, W: J V Williams-WM Relief Lodge
and W: Jim Akin-WM District Lodge.
Back Row L:R Jim Dunkin-DGL, M: W: Bro
Harold Ballard, PGM, R: W: Scott Broderick-
DDGM, R: W: BJ Guillot-GSW and W: Bro Paul
Martin-Junior PM District Lodge.
12
WALTER IRVING LANIER #307 F. & A.M.
2010 Officers Front Row L:R W: Bro Rob-
ert J Bernard-Installing Master, W: Mark A
Bergeron-PM WM and W: Bro Ralph J Soignet,
Sr.-Installling Marshal Middle Row L:R W: Bro
Russell A Danos-Treasurer, William J Wilson-
SW, Richard J Blanchard-JW, W: Bro Robert J
Knight, Jr.-PM Sec’y and W: Bro Jimmy J Baye-
PM Chaplain. Back Row: Adam P Bergeron-JS,
Robert J Rivere-SS, Joe R Dunlap-Marshal,
Bryan Zeringue-SD
Front Row L:R - Thomas E Boggan-SW, M: W: Jeff Webb-GM Installing Master, W: Bro Harry
C Northrop III-Installing Chaplain, W: Bro Gregory L Bruce-PM Sec’y Back Row L:R - W: Bro
Kerry M Martin-PM Treas, W: Preston C Richard-WM, Steven L Saucier-Marshal, Lanty J Wylie-
SD, Donald G Head-JD, Scott A Wylie-SS, David W Gotte-JS
L:R Earl J. Huguenel, Sr., Senior Steward, Kenneth R. Guillory, Master of Ceremonies, Douglas W.
Wyatt, Junior Deacon, Bobby J. Malbrough Sr., Senior Deacon, Philip L. Molaison, P.M., Treasurer,
Guy R. Gerhardt, P.M., Junior Warden, John J. Babin, III, Worshipful Master (center), Frank J.
Heinrich, Senior Warden, Earl J. Huguenel, Jr., Chaplain, Steven M. Jayroe, Secretary, and Earl
W. McCurdy, Tyler. Not Pictured-Jules H. Tucker, P.M., Junior Steward.
13
CENTER #244 F. & A.M.
Center Lodge located in Bogalusa,
recently installed its 2010 officers. After
a meal of catfish and trimmings the large
gathering retired to the Lodge. W: Bro
Roger D Hendrix-DGL 14th Masonic
District was the Installing Master.
Officers installed were W: Dallas Front Row LR: W: Bro Billy Hughes-PM Trea-
M Alford-PM WM, Dan Milton-SW, surer, Dan Milton-Senior Warden, W: Dallas M
Ronald Pitman-JW, Billy J Hughes-PM Alford-PM WM, Ronald Pitman-Junior Warden
Treasurer, W: Bro Henry E Vernon-PM and W: Bro Henry Vernon-PM Sec’y
Back Row L:R James Barnes-Junior Deacon,
Sec’y, W: Bro Carl W Jarrell-PM Chap- W: Bro CW Jarrell-PM Chaplain, W: Bro Earl
lain, James E Cockrell II-SD, James W Reese-PM Tyler, James Cockrell-Senior Deacib
Barnes-JD, Charles R Rogers-Senior and Charles Rogers-Senior Steward
Steward and W: Bro Earl Reese-PM
Tyler.
14
OCEAN-ORLEANS #144 F. & A.M.
Ocean-Orleans Lodge is located in Pearl River and recently installed its 2010
officers.The members, visitors and guests were treated to a delicious meal of stuffed
pork loin prepared by W: Bro Roy O Hardin, III. The hall was decorated by W:
Bobby M Bowen-Incoming Worshipful Master and his wife.
Back Row L:R - W: Bro Barney Frank Harris-PM Tyler, William G Worley, Jr.-Junior Warden, W:
John J Boyd-Worshipful Master, Elton James Clifton, Jr.-Senior Deacon and Michael Roy Piercy-
Senior Steward
Front Row L:R - Peter T Chasas-Senior Warden, Robert Terry Gannaway-Junior Deacon, Jon G
Bartlett-Treasurer, Timothy A Davidson-MofC, W: Bro Thomas C “Buddy” Foster-PM Secretary,
William Edward Ragan-Marshal Steward. Not Pictured Waylon Eric Piercy-Junior Steward
15
St. JAMES #47 F. & A.M. The Master Mason Degree was
Special Communication conferred on three new members of
St. James Lodge, R Shane Marchand,
Joshua A Senne, and Brad W McDan-
iel. Pictured at right, beginning on the
left, are Shane Marchand, W: Timothy
H Atkins-Worshipful Master; Joshua
Senne, Brad McDaniel, W: Bro Jack M
Claunch, W: Bro Dr. Stephen M Selby
and W: Bro Jimmie D Dunkin-District
Grand Lecturer 13th Masonic District.
16
MINDEN #51 F. & A.M.
Donation
The Lodge presented a $1000 dona-
tion to the Shrine Hospital. Pictured at
right are: W: Bro Eldon W Howell-PM
Treasurer, W: Jessie B Price, Jr.-PM
WM, Christian Berg-Shreveport Shrine
Hospital Public Relations Director and
Mary Howell-Grand Worthy Matron.
17
SAM B DRYFUSE #396 F & AM Recently the Lodge honored Past
Past Masters Night Masters and Widows at Andrea’s Res-
taurant in Metairie, La. The Lodge took
this opportunity to recognize Brother
Mac Rackmel, at 98 the oldest Lodge
member and recipient of a Masonic
Fidelity Medal. W: Bro David A Felix
was also honored by being named as
Past Master of the Year for his tireless
dedication to the Lodge and Fraternity.
The Lodge was blessed to have our
Widows in attendance along with sev-
Bro: Mac Rackmel and W: Fred A Falgout-PM eral Past Masters.
WM
This can be a relatively easy way to ensure the future of your Fraternity
and as a personal reward, reduce your taxes on your personal estate.
You can even specify the charity you wish to benefit or create a special
endowed fund in your name or in the memory of a loved one or special
brother who meant a great deal to your life.
You have the option to use several efficient vehicles such as an Annuity,
Trust, Charitable Gift Annuity, Testamentary Trust, etc. to accomplish
your personal objective.
Once established your name or the name of your special designee will be
cast in bronze and permanently displayed at your Grand Lodge
20
SUN LODGE #336 F & AM Sun Lodge held its annual Honesty &
Honesty & Integrity Awards Integrity Award evening and was hon-
ored to have three outstanding students
receive the Masonic recognition. R:W:
Hylton Spillman, DDGM made the
presentations with the assistance of W:
Leslie Mizell, Worshipful Master.
GERMANIA #46 F & AM The color of jacket, tie & coat desig-
Operative Visitor nates the specific trade skill. A normal
There was an interesting guest at handshake while wearing the “uniform”
Germania Lodge from Germany! Sebas- of his guild along with a non-secret
tian Herdlicka word and his “book” (like a passport)
is a mason, but identifies him to other knowledgeable
not a speculative guildsmen while on his journey.
Freemason. He
is an operative
mason and be-
longs to an 800
year old guild in
Germany. He is
a skilled worker
and a journey-
man.
Sebastian is required to “journey” for
3 years around the world and seek work.
He is limited by the amount of time he
may spend at each location. He is to
seek varied input relative to his trade and
observe how others of his trade operate.
His medal or emblem that he wears on
his tie, is a Square & Compass with a
plasterers’ trowel in the center. After
his 3 yr journey, he can then apply to
become a “Master”.
Sebastian’s travel book
Their clothing is special & prescribed.
Coat & pants are wide wale corduroy.
21
PITKIN #338 F & AM
Friend to Friend
The Lodge held their annual bring a
friend night with the evening kicking off
with a fried chicken dinner. The pro-
gram moved to the Lodge with William
S Davis, SW welcoming everyone and
explaining that W: John R Johnson-WM
was home recovering with a broken
foot. W: Bro Donald R. Bush, DGL 8th
Masonic District was introduced as the
keynote speaker. Brother Bush gave an
exceptional talk explaining the masonic
lodge and the vital part masons have in
our society yesterday and today.
W: Bro Donald R Bush-DGL
FAIR PARK #436 F & AM The Lodge held their annual Honesty
Honesty & Integrity Awards & Integrity program with everyone
enjoying a fried chicken dinner. The
awards were presented to three South-
wood High School juniors. Mary Ann
Allison, Shelbi Sappington and Denise
Dalton were the honored students. The
guest speaker for the evening was Ted
Cox, Judicial Administrator for the
Caddo Parish Juvenile Court.
L:R - Mary Ann “Mookie” Allison, Shelbi Sap-
pington and Denise Dalton
24
EASTER STAR #151 F & AM The Scottish Rite Monroe Valley
Master Mason of the Year Award has an annual program to recognize
and honor a Master Mason in their
area. This year the Master Mason of the
Year Award was presented Teddy Ray
Price, of Eastern Star Lodge #151. M:
W: Woody D Bilyeu, GM along with
the Elected Grand Line and several ap-
pointed Grand Lodge Officers were in
attendance.
M: W: Bilyeu and his lady Mary took
William J Mollere, 33° SGIG and M: W: Woody
this opportunity to recognize Master
D Bilyeu, GM 33° Personal Representative flank Masons raised in 2009 and present them
Master Mason of the Year Teddy Ray Price with a special Grand Master’s pin. Tim
Davidson and wife Lisa, Jim Kennedy
and wife Jean, Everett Upshaw and
Andy Harlan were in attendance and
the Grand Master encouraged them
continue their active roles in all aspects
of Masonry.
St. JAMES #47 F & AM to appear on campus. “Be glad you’re
Masonic Ring in-wear your pin”.
Brother Joe Cooper of Center Lodge The four brothers were Joe Cooper,
#244, Bogalusa and St. James Lodge Gordon Thompson-Denham Springs
#47 in Baton Rouge wrote the follow- Lodge #297, W: Bro Neal Hanna,
ing: PM-New River Lodge #402 and Shep
In early September 1956 four young Wallack-Mt. Moriah Lodge #59.
men appeared at the book store of W: Bro Joe Richard graciously pro-
Southeastern Louisiana College (now vided the picture of Bro Cooper’s ring
ULL-Hammond) to buy their class rings along with one of his own ring from
for the May 1957 graduation. Louisiana Tech. Brother Cooper’s ring
The senior clerk handed us the re- is shown below on the left and W: Bro
quired forms and asked us if we would Richard’s is on the right. Unfortunately,
like to look through a catalog to pick a group picture of the original four class-
out the style of stone or Greek letters men is not available and due to health
for our respective fraternities. We all issues not currently possible.
replied that we had decided before en-
tering the store that we all wanted the
Masonic Emblem/Square & Compasses
and told the clerk “we all belong to the
world’s most famous fraternity...we are
all Freemasons.
To our knowledge, these four class
rings were perhaps the first and only
25
LOUISIANA MOTORCYCLE CHAPTER
Start a Local Chapter
If you are interested in becoming a
member of Louisiana Mason Motor-
cycle Chapter or start one in your area,
contact W: Bro Tony Pohlmann:
tonypohlmann@bellsouth.net
26
ATKINS #266 F & AM
Installation
Atkins Lodge held installation for
its 2010 Officers with W: Bro Hoyt S
Hooper-PM Hap Arnold #457 acting
as Installing Master and W: Bro James
R Enkey as Installing Marshal. The
above officers are, from left to right at
the top: W.B. Treasurer Jim Enkey, the
Worshipful Master Ed Myers, and W.B.
Tyler Bill Richards. In the second row L:R Top Row W: Bro James R Enkey-PM Trea-
are Senior Deacon S. Peter Bretzman surer, W: Edward L Myers-WM and W: Bro
and the immediate Past Master of the William R Richards-PM Tyler
Lodge W.B. Carey Allison. In the third Middle Row Sterling Peter Bretzman-SD and W:
Bro Carey C Allison-Jr Past Master
row down are Marshall Charles Griffith, Bottom Row Charles C Griffith-Marshal, W:
W.B. Chaplain Rick Hall, W.B. Senior Bro Richard L Hall-PM Chaplain, W: Bro
Warden Hoyt Hooper, Senior Steward Hoyt S Hooper-PM Senior Warden, James
James Dunaway, and Junior Deacon Dunaway-Senior Steward and Robert L Ward-
Junior Steward
Robert Ward.
The incoming officers were then ad- complished during an open meeting,
dressed briefly by W: Bro Carey Allison attended by members of the lodge and by
concerning the duty and responsibility friends and family of past and incoming
that each officer was assuming for the officers, and all present shared an excel-
function of the lodge., lent meal provided by the Bro. Ed Myers
The installation of officers was ac- as the incoming Master of the Lodge.
28
Mt. MORIAH-QUITMAN #59 F & AM
Friend to Friend The members of Mt. Moriah-Quitman
Lodge #59 located in Jefferson, LA held
its annual Bring a Friend Night. W: John
J. Babin III, WM opened the evening by
welcoming the members and guests and
thanking them for their attendance. An
informative Masonic lecture was pre-
sented by W: Bro. Jefferey P Borgstede,
PM. The Worshipful Master also gave a
lecture on Masonic charities and famous
masons. A delicious meal was served
immediately after the lectures.
W: John Babin with guests for the evening.
David Benoit, Stephen McLellan, Darryl Garrett, John Nightengale, Brandon Bergeron, M: W:
Woody Bilyeu, GM, Robert Merritt, Jerry Newman, Jonathon Williams, Austin Fellows, Scott
Monceaux and Jim Hill
33
I Am The Guardian
by
Kenneth B. deMoss, PM Hope #145
I am the gatekeeper and silent guardian of the inner door. I sit quietly within
the confines of your lodge mostly ignored and unnoticed by its members. Non-
members who visit your lodge seldom if ever see me or me give a second glance
and ever wonder what I am, or my purpose. I am quite use to this behavior; for
it has been this way throughout the centuries that Freemasonry has existed. My
predecessors may have been fancier, made from exotic woods, or more richly
carved. That matters little for I know my true purpose and will remain dedicated
to the same. It is my duty and that of the members to protect the lodge and guard
it from the profane world. We have and will always stand vigilant in that duty
by allowing no one to pass our threshold
that the brothers have not first agreed to in
unison. Only then will they be allowed to
enter and become a brother and member
of the Craft.
When a ballot is taken the act is mo-
mentous for the candidate and significant
for the Lodge. It is an official act by each
member in turn and by the Lodge as a legal
body. The ballot has legal sanction and
must be conducted according to solemn
rules. So I sit patiently waiting for the
call to be of service to the lodge and to
work in concert with the brothers either to
elect or reject all those who petitions for
admittance. The brothers will line up, go
before the alter as directed by the Master and place a hand deep into my darkened
confines and select either a white ball or a black cube which they then will deposit
even deeper into a recesses of my body which remains hidden from view until all
have made their selection. Only then, when all members present have balloted, will
the Master declare the ballot closed. Then he, along with the Wardens uncovers
and views the results of the ballot to declare it either dark or clear. The fate of the
candidate is then revealed to all the brothers assembled.
When the results are revealed I scan the faces of the brothers and see disappoint-
ment in some, shock in others. Sadly the results may not always be that which each
individual brother wishes or thought and hoped the outcome to be. Some brothers
may think it to be quite severe that it takes only one of my dark cubes to determine
the fate of the candidate and keep a friend, family member or someone they thought
worthy from becoming a member the order. However, that centuries-old rule has
served the lodges well. If a brother knows something about the petitioner that
continued next page
34
continued from previous page
I Am The Gatekeeper:
would bring shame or discredit to the craft it is his duty to protect the lodge. The
brothers whether they agree with the outcome or not, must always remember the
results are the will of the lodge and should be accepted as such.
Even the writers of our ancient constitutions felt that the members of each in-
dividual lodge could best judge who were allowed to enter our fraternity or not. I
take this task seriously for it is the brothers and I who guard the door. It was never
meant that all who apply for membership were allowed to join our fraternity. As
an inanimate object I do not know nor care about the intentions of the balloting
brethren. I can only hope their selection was made for the good of the order and
not out of petty, vindictive motives or for any reason other than that which will
benefit and help Masonry grow. So never cast blame upon me for I am but a tool
and can only carry out the will of the Lodge. I have no opinion; I am here solely
to receive and to safeguard the ballot.
There is no option in Masonry that allows anyone to question or speculate on
the reasoning or motive causing a brother to cast that black cube rejecting a can-
didate. Rather, you can only trust it was for the good of the order. Being obligated
as Master Masons the brothers are held to a high standard of upright action. This
means there should never be any attempt or design to obtain information or to even
speculate as to how any brother balloted, for that is a most grievous offense and a
very un-Masonic act. The Ballot is, and must remain, secret, sacred, and inviolate
in the breast of brother who cast it.
The reasoning behind the secret ballot has always been to allow a man to vote
his conscience without the fear of reprisal or reprimand. I am glad that I am just
the silent and passive witness in this process for it is a sad truth that some lodges
have been nearly torn apart by the presence of just one black cube that some felt
was unjustly cast. In a perfect Masonic world this could never happen but you
do not live in such a world if indeed one ever did exist. However, my limited and
simple world is just such a place; free from opinions, emotions, doubt, pettiness,
or vengeance. I have no agenda other than to protect the Lodge, to guard the inner
door, and to keep the ballot anonymous. And, as ballot boxes have done over the
centuries, as long as the system remains viable, I, with the help of the dedicated and
well-intentioned brethren, will forever help you guard the inner door, allowing only
those few good and upright men to join your ranks as members and brothers.
35
The Louisiana Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
FREEMASON P A I D
P.O. BOX 12357 Baton Rouge, LA
Permit No. 920
ALEXANDRIA, LA 71315-2357
2009-10 OFFICERS
Woody D. Bilyeu, Grand Master
Beverly J. “BJ” Guillot, Deputy Grand Master
Frank N du Treil, Jr., Grand Senior Warden
H Edward Durham, Grand Junior Warden
Joseph H. Baker, Jr., PGM Grand Treasurer
James M. Walley, PGM, Grand Treasurer “Emeritus”
Roy B. Tuck, PGM, Grand Secretary
William J. Mollere, Grand Chaplain
James E. Steen, Grand Marshal
Clifford D. Whitehead, Grand Senior Deacon
Bobby Wayne Harlan, Grand Junior Deacon
Elmo J. Pitre, Jr., Grand Sword Bearer
Travis M. Holley, Grand Pursuivant
John W. Lutes, Grand Standard Bearer
Ralph H. Owens, Grand Tyler
Willey G. Bell, III, Grand Photographer
J. Keith Gates, Grand Organist
I.C. Turnley, Jr., M.D., PGM, Grand Physician