Category Archives: From The East

Message from the East

Here is a preview of June’s message.

Brethren,

We’ve learned some new catch phrases over the past few months. Whether we agree with them or not, they have shaped how we live in these trying times.

We have not had the opportunity to meet as friends…as Brothers since March 9th, 2020. That was the last time the gavel sounded at Mariners Lodge. However, there is more to masonry than reciting ritual, wearing a hat and conducting a business meeting. We are still doing good work for our Lodge, our Brethren and the community because of those who make the choice to do something when sometimes … nothing can be done … when hope seems lost. A Brother once told me, “A Mason turns every day ordinary into extraordinary,” and that is what we set out to do.

Being away from friends and dealing with the new normal has been stressful for many. The fear of what the future holds can be taxing at times. This can be the lowest point emotionally for some. We must not forget that we have the charity of our Brothers even if it is just a reminder that they are there for you when you must be there for others.

The Apostle Paul wrote in I Thessalonians 5:19. “Don’t put out the Spirit’s fire.” Don’t let apathy caused by the current pandemic extinguish the fire and fervor in your life.

It was a chilly evening. Two Brothers were sitting before a blazing fire. Both men did not speak. They just stared at the burning embers as the flames danced around the burning logs. One Brother took the fire tongs and pulled out a brightly burning ember and set it aside all alone in the cold air, then sat back down in his chair without uttering a word.

The other Brother just watched the ember quietly … studying it. The ember began to cool and its glow diminished. There was a momentary glow and then its fire was no more. The ember had gone cold and dead.

Still nothing was said, but the one Brother must be going. He picked up the cold dead ember and placed it back in the fire. Immediately it began to glow once more with the light and warmth of the burning coals around it. Just before the Brother left, his host thanked him for his lesson.
Multiple sources – original unknown – paraphrased

We are not alone. We are one. Never forget that every single one of us is here for each other even if it is just a friendly text, call, email or social distance visit.

Our Smoker Raffle seems to be a huge success. A BIG thank you to WB Jeff “The Mini Legend” Rawley and Dave Rosen for organizing, everyone else who sold tickets and those who bailed out DB Tony so he could cover!

Cigar Night is scheduled to happen on June 13th. The event may be moved to a later date. I and the Senior Warden will communicate with WB Pete about the event.

WB Steven Metelski, Jr.,
Worshipful Master, Mariners Lodge 150 “The Roarin’ 20’s”

Message from the East

Brethren,
I did not really know John Kaiser like some of you did.
We talked and exchanged pleasantries, but never got
into discussions about life where you really get to know
someone. He always complimented me on my work or
how I carried myself. He always told me, “You’re going
to be a good master, Steve.” I hope I can live up to his
expectations. He was a central piece to our Lodge. He
transcended all adversity and was loved by everyone.
He never had anything bad to say about something and
always had something good to say about everyone.
His seat was occupied by Bro. Robert Golomb for our
Master Mason degree in November. He did a fantastic
job. John would have been proud to witness his
performance. John’s seat was vacant for our meeting in
December. It has been vacant before, but this time the
silence meant something different. We all noticed it, but
no one openly acknowledged it. It was just something
that was understood. John, you will be missed…
“You are not better than anybody else. You just
might be luckier…”
This is the one piece of advice my future father-in-law
Michael Hogan gave me when I first met him when I
was 17. He gave me a lot of advice, but this is one
piece of advice that stuck with me and shaped how I
live my life.
Mariners Lodge is committed to helping those less
fortunate than us. Especially in times where family is
missed the most, or that time with family can be made
that much better. An Easter food drive is currently
underway to provide food for the needy. Our normal
events are being scheduled and we plan to add others
to ensure Mariners is in the background while keeping
our good work in the foreground.
Degrees are scheduled for the second meeting in
January (EA), February (FC), and March (MM). Come on
out and support our new brethren. Educational and fun
programs will also be offered.
Worshipful Brother Mitchell and those before him have
kept Mariners strong. I hope to continue their tradition
by providing cohesion with the officers, communication
with Past Masters and serving the brethren.
I would like to thank the Past Masters for the advice I
have received and am about to receive, my officers for
being there even when I felt I was asking too much of
them and the brethren as a whole for electing me as
Master of Mariners Lodge
“You are not better than anyone else. You might just
be luckier…”

I am very lucky to be your Worshipful Master

Fraternally and respectfully,
Worshipful Master Steven Metelski Jr.

A Message from the East

Master’s Message March 2019

March is upon us, and the inevitable progress towards spring reminds us of all the great times ahead of us. As I look at the near future I see a Game Night at the Lodge (March 9th 7:00 PM) and our ever popular Ballroom  Dancing fundraiser (April 13th), benefiting Mariners scholarship fund.

              Also March brings us to our annual St. Patrick’s day celebration on March 16th; that annual festival of bagpipes, dancers, corned beef, cabbage, and fellowship that brings us, our families, and friends closer every year..  

            Regardless of our ages, March and April remind us of the rebirth of Spring, and should encourage each and every one of us to reach out, reengage with our families and friends, and look for opportunities to be of service to our fellow man.

And in honor of March I chose again to turn to Bro. Carl Claudy, for his musing on Brotherly Love:

Brotherly love is not a tangible commodity. We cannot touch it or weigh it, smell it or taste it. Yet it is a reality; it can be creative, it can be fostered, it can be made a dynamic power. The Master who has it in his Lodge and his brethren will find that Lodge and brethren give it back to him. The Master too worried over the cares of his office to express friendliness need never wonder why his Lodge seems too cold to his effort.

 

Sincerely & Fraternally,

W.M. Joseph Mitchell

A Message from the East

Greetings Brothers,
Many past masters told me , prior to December, how fast my year would go by. As I am writing this message, it’s almost March, and I don’t know where February went. It’s been busy to say the least. Two of my favorite symbols of our craft are the Beehive and the Hourglass. It’s very easy these days to get caught up in our busy lives. I, for one, use these symbols to stay focused, and remember we are made to be active and social creatures. Don’t become another drone in the hive while those little particles slide through their little container.

I had the opportunity this month to visit with a long time mason (raised in 1955). We had a quick chat, but what I really took from our visit was the immense pride that he has of being a Mason. He proceeded to pull out a folder full of everything masonic of his through the years – papers, certificates, etc. I have much love and pride in our institution, and to see that we are following in the footsteps of some fantastic men is a good feeling. On another note, that visit also brought some sincere happiness to his daughter, who is caring for him. To see that a quick visit can really mean so much to a family is a true lesson. I really encourage all of you to keep in touch with our brothers, and if you haven’t seen anyone for a while, check in with them. I know you will get a good feeling in your heart to make someone happy!

There are two big events in March, the first being the Reception for this year’s 20th District Grand Officers, including our own Robert Shields, on March 8th at Sea Oaks. For information or tickets see me or WB Harper. Also, we have our big St. Patrick’s Dinner on March 10th at the Lodge. For information or tickets see me or SW Mitchell.

This month’s “Freemasons in History” Davy Crockett:
“The King of the Wild Frontier” was a folk hero and a politician, but also a freemason. It was while he was serving in Washington that he became a Mason, and when he left to explore Texas he gave his masonic apron to the Weakly Lodge in Tennessee, where it still remains. His idea was to settle in Texas and move his family there, but sadly, that never happened. While he was there was a surprise attack by Mexican soldiers and so the Battle of the Alamo began. When the battle was over, and the Mexicans had taken the fort, Crockett was discovered among the dead. On March 6, 1775, Prince Hall and fourteen other free Negroes of Boston were made Master Masons in an Army lodge attached to one of General Gage’s regiments.

Sincerely and fraternally,
WM Peter Rahtjen

Message From the East

 

Greetings Brethren,

I am not sure about you, but I am hoping that in a few days, the groundhog comes out and sees no shadow, because I am ready for an early spring.

2018 finds us in some amazing times. With so much happening in the world, it’s often hard to stay focused on the direction which is best for you. I personally find that to be true occasionally. You can look at social media and your thoughts may be swayed in one direction, and then watch the evening news and your thoughts can be moved in another direction altogether. We can all get caught up in the heat of the moment. The way I continue to try to counter that is to remind myself of the lessons we learn in the Lodge, and what it truly takes to be a Mason. Be kind to all people. Examine the facts, examine history, and think for yourself; don’t let anyone think for you. One of my favorite quotes comes from Mahatma Gandhi: “You must be the change you want to see in the world.” I find this very valuable and use it when I need to focus.

February is a busy month at Mariners Lodge; we have some fun events coming up where I hope to see you. February 10th we have the Grand Lodge Valentines dance at the Parkertown Firehouse. February 24th at 7 PM we will be holding a ballroom dance lesson event at Mariners which was a great time when we did it before. There are limited spots left; contact me for information.

This month’s edition of notable Freemasons take a look at the sports world. I’m sure most basketball fans know that Shaquille “Shaq” O’Neal is a Prince Hall Mason, but did you know former Chicago Bulls Champion Scottie Pippen is as well? Also, Denver Broncos legend John Elway is a perpetual lifetime member of South Denver Lodge No. 93.

Sincerely and fraternally,
WM Peter Rahtjen

A Message From the East

Brethren,

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year brethren! I hope you are all enjoying the holidays with family, brothers, and friends. I am both honored and excited to have been elected as Worshipful Master of Mariners Lodge. I am looking forward to working with you all, serving Freemasonry, and making good men better men.
I’d like take this opportunity to again congratulate WB Doug Harper for a fantastic year in the East. I truly enjoyed working with Doug, and I am looking forward to his help and wisdom as we progress through the 2018 masonic year. We will be holding some fun events this year, including the popular St. Patrick’s Day dinner, Ashes in the Alley, and Pirate’s Day, just to name a few. I also hope to try some fun new events, so stay tuned.
When I started to learn about our fraternity, before I petitioned for membership, I hoped that Masonry was something that not only I could enjoy, but my family as well, so I plan to put together some activities that are family friendly too; I hope to see you all there.

We have an upcoming event run by the 20th Masonic District, which will be a roast of the outcoming Masters, and should be a blast!

January 12th will be the roast, and it’s open to Masons and their significant others. See me for tickets.

Finally brothers, while I would love to see you all on the sidelines at meetings, I encourage you to be a Mason every day, call and check in on a brother you haven’t seen in a while, do something good for one reason – that it feels good in your heart.

Notable Freemasons: Henry Ford
Ford revolutionized mass production of cars with the Model T, giving his name to the process, known as “Fordism”. Fordism was about more than making cars quickly, it was also about giving workers rights and wages that they never had before. With his $5 workday, he improved conditions radically and forced competitors to do the same.

Fraternally and Sincerely,
WM Peter Rahtjen

A Message From The East

Brethren,
 
My term as Master is half over and I want to thank everyone for their support so far this year. We have accomplished many things and will continue to do so for the remainder of the year.
 
As the sun in the sky at meridian reaches its zenith for the year remember that we do not go “dark”. As Freemasons we never go dark. Although we may not see each other for several weeks, the light each of us emits will always reach the rest of the brotherhood. Think of the summer break as going on an extended refreshment. We are still a lodge and we continue to do the work we perform outside of the lodge room including charity, fun, and brotherhood.
 
Please continue to support our ongoing food drive for those who are less fortunate than we are. You may contact me or WB Jeffrey Rawley if you have donations to make. We will also have several social events over the summer break included in the Trestleboard & Dates for Your Calendar sections of this trestleboard. I hope to see you all there.
 
Freemasonry is an attempt to organize harmony, and therefore it is essential that all its arrangements for the promotion of concord should be of the most perfect character and most delicately adjusted. Whatever tends in the least degree to produce disagreement and discord, to cause a jarring and clashing among the elements composing the society, or any of its branches, must have a tendency to defeat the purposes of the institution, must in itself be destructive of the spirit of Masonry, and must be something foreign to that spirit, something not to be cultivated, but to be avoided by Masons
– The Masonic Monthly, February 1867.
 
Fraternally and Sincerely,
Doug Harper,WM 2017

A Message From The east

Brethren,

In the most special of months I remind you of to honor those who sacrificed everything that we may live in a free country. This coming Memorial Day is more than a day to cook out and enjoy the nice weather. Without the sacrifice of our fallen brothers and sisters we would not have the freedom nor treasure that we enjoy so much. I also remind you to remember she who gave you life on Mother’s Day. I borrow from the Order of DeMolay Flower talk:

You may have risen to positions of great influence in commercial, political, or professional life, but you can never reach the heights of your mother’s secret hopes for you. You may sink into the lowest depths of infamy or degradation but never below
the reach of her love. The memory of it will always stir your heart. There is no man so entirely base, so completely vile, so utterly low that he does not hold in his heart a shrine sacred and apart for the memory of his mother’s love.

Whether she is with you or if she has passed on memories of her love will always be with you and will always be a guiding light for you. On that special day dedicated to her please think of your mother and, if she is still with you, call her, take her to (or make her) dinner. Send flowers. Whatever you do she will be thrilled that you thought of her on her special day. If she has
passed on, please remember her on this day. She will know.

“Few delights can equal the mere presence of one we can trust utterly.”
– Brother George MacDonald

Fraternally and Sincerely,
Doug Harper,WM 2017

A Message From The East

Brethren,

Seven Score and twelve years ago the bloodiest war in American history, the American Civil War, ended. During the struggle that nearly tore our country apart, there were many occasions when Freemasons on both sides of the lines remembered their obligations toward each other and, despite their political differences, they risked life, limb and treasure to aid and relieve a brother in need. A remembrance of that time follows:

“My father had been a soldier in the Union Army.
He was made a Mason in a military Lodge. Taken
prisoner at Arkansas Post, he was carried up the
Mississippi River to Rock Island, Illinois. My father
became desperately ill, and made himself known
as a Mason to an officer of the camp. The officer
took him to his own home and nursed him back
to life. When the war ended, he loaned Father
money to pay his way back to his Texas home,
and gave him a pearl-handled pistol to protect
himself. This experience of my father, when
I learned about it, had a very great influence
upon my life; the fact that such a fraternity of
men could exist, mitigating the harshness of war,
and remain unbroken when states and churches
were torn in two, became a wonder; and it is not
strange that I tried for years to repay my debt to
it.”
– Joseph Fort Newton, D.D. in River of Years

Fraternally and Sincerely,
Doug Harper,WM 2017

A Message From The East

Brethren,
 
Spring is just around the corner. In a few weeks the world will waken anew, the flowers will bloom, and life will spring forth. As the season turns and we exit our winter burrows, it’s the perfect time of year to awaken our Masonic selves. If the mortar of your Masonic self has become worn, or the stones are loose, or have rough edges, this is the perfect time to pick up your gavel, square, and trowel, and reshape and reset those stones, and, if you want your work to be Square, don’t cut corners.
 
If you are a regular attendee of Lodge we look forward to seeing you during the coming months. If you haven’t been to Lodge for a while, why not come out and see what’s happening at Mariners? You might see a friend you haven’t seen for a while. If you would like to attend Lodge and and cannot get there yourself, please call me directly. I will arrange to have you driven both ways.
 
For those looking for new ways to help the Lodge and the brethren, RW Brother John Kaiser is assembling a list of skills and talents (even hobbies) each of us might be willing to use to help a brother in need. this is intended to be a directory of things we can do to help each other, not a for-profit business listing. If you have a skill you are willing to list, please contact RW Brother Kaiser directly at: jcaek@aol.com.
 
“Man has always sought the Fountain of Youth, and has never found it. Those who work with young people, however, know that to stay young is nothing more than thinking young, being part of what is going on now, and staying close to the aspirations and enthusiasms of the young.”
– Brother Henry Clausen
 
Fraternally and Sincerely,
Doug HarperWM 2017