FALL 2019 - Masonic Care Community
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FALL 2019
From the Grand East
MW WILLIAM M. SARDONE
Grand Master
212/337-6643
O ur Grand Lodge Session is behind us. Sgt. and Brother
William Hoover moved all of us with his message. We
made history by presenting four charters to four new Lodges.
Meetings, updates, parade, dedications, picnic, fireworks
(thank you Trustees) and of course, the Investiture. Our
District Deputy Grand Masters, Staff Officers and Assistant
As you move through this issue of The Empire State Mason you Grand Lecturers stepped up to another year of dedicated
will see some of the highlights of our Session in May. support. We invested RW Robert M. Schvey as our newest
The response to building the Horticultural Center (formerly Grand Chaplain. Recognitions were given and our Masonic
known as the Greenhouse) is strong and the project continues Youth Groups brought their message to an overflow crowd.
to garner support. Each trip to Utica, NY sees progress. Brother Jonathan Cilia-Faro graced us with his powerful
Our Trustees have added this to the many projects they are operatic voice and song.
managing. Celebrations are important. And so is the business of our
I added a picture to my message to let you know that this Fraternity. Business such as improving our programs and
is more than a structure for growing. It will also be a center growing our Lodges. There is too much to write about here,
to relax, have conferences or classes, gather with friends and but with the addition of four new Lodges and a dispensation
more. The architects sent their vision of how this will all turn for another new Lodge we are clearly on a path forward. Our
out. It is impressive. membership task force has worked in targeted areas and we are
showing a dramatic increase in quality membership inquiries.
St. John’s Weekend saw an increase in attendance, which
began with a concert on Thursday night, thanks to the joint More information on what is coming up is in this issue.
support of the Masonic Medical Research Institute Directors These are exciting times as we Build the future and Share the
and the Masonic Hall and Home Trustees. We were not sure of Experience. Tell others what we do; tell them what you do.
the weather and took no chances by moving the concert into In closing, I want to thank you for electing me and our
the gym. So many people were there we had to keep the doors Grand Line to continue for another year. You have heard me
open so people could spill outside and still hear the music. say this before: I am a lucky man. I will continue to serve you
(We encouraged dancing on the grounds). As it turned out, with increased energy.
the weekend weather was the best that anyone can remember.
2 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS IN THIS ISSUE
Volume 68 / Number 3/ FALL 2019
Featured Highlights:
The Address for St. John’s Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FALL 2019
Florida Sojourner Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Grand Secretary’s Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Masonic Toys for Tots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Brick Sidewalk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47-48
Officers and Committees:
From the Grand East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Deputy Grand Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Senior Grand Warden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Artist rendering and Work in Junior Grand Warden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
progress of the Horticultural Center Grand Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Grand Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Grand Historian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Masonic Care Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Acacia Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25
Masonic Brotherhood Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29
Grand Cinamatographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Senior Grand Deacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
New York DeMolay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
International Order Of The Rainbow For Girls In New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Organization of Triangles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37
Masonic Youth Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
From the Webmaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Awards Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Masonic Medical Research Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Years of Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Statement of Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Dates to Remember . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Grand Lecturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL AND ASYLUM FUND
Publisher
The Empire State Mason is an Official Publication of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum
Fund. Edited by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York for the
members of the Masonic Fraternity and their families.
CONSULTANTS
POSTMASTER:
WILLIAM M. SARDONE richard j. kessler steven adam rubin Please send address changes to:
Grand Master – Editor in Chief Deputy Grand Master Grand Treasurer The Empire State Mason
Circulation Department
JOAN C. BOWER charles m. roberts richard t. schulz 71 West 23rd Street
Assistant Editor Senior Grand Warden Grand Secretary NY NY 10010-4149
Periodicals Class Publication 56874
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Subscription $6.00 Domestic $15.00 Foreign per year. Subscription free to all members of constituent Lodges of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. State of New York. Copyright ©2019 by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum
Fund. All rights reserved. Reproduction by recognized Masonic organizations is permitted with credit. All others must obtain written permission. Published quarterly in Spring Summer Fall and Winter months by the Trustees
of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund 71 West 23rd Street NY NY 10010-4149.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON (ISSN 0013-6794 Published at 71 West 23rd Street NY NY 10010-4149).
Periodicals postage paid at New York NY and additional mailing offices.
The Address from Saint John’s Day
ADDRESS OF THE MOST WORSHIPFUL WILLIAM M. that are handled with innovation and dedication. After all, it’s
SARDONE, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New your Masonic Care Community.
York to the District Deputy Grand Masters, Grand Lodge The Masonic Medical Research Institute
Staff Officers and Assistant Grand Lecturers for the year For over 60 years the research from this entity has been
2019 through 2020 in the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial groundbreaking. And more ground is about to be broken.
Chapel on the Campus of the Masonic Care Community in Thanks to the diligent focus of RW Alvaro Quiroga, the
Utica, New York. President, the Board of Directors of the Institute and its
R ight Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, Most Worshipful
Past Grand Masters, Members of the Grand Lodge,
Brethren, Ladies and Friends of New York Freemasonry,
Staff, this facility is now on the global map. Our Director of
Research, Dr. Maria Kontaridis continues to attract talent and
funding.
We are delighted that you are able to join us for the Annual Just a few days ago they partnered with our Trustees of the
Investiture Ceremony for the Grand Lodge of Free and Masonic Hall and Home. The result was a second-to-none
Accepted Masons of the State of New York. Beatles Concert right here on campus. In addition to the
The Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home, the Directors talented scientists, the Institute has added creative staff. Staff
of the Masonic Medical Research Institute, the Trustees of the that continues to interface with our Grand Lodge regarding
Chancellor Robert R Livingston Masonic Library, those that creative ideas and positive thinking.
comprise the Headquarters for New York DeMolay, the Grand The Chancellor Robert R Livingston Masonic Library
Lodge Committees and the State-Wide Leadership Teams Where can you find a lock of Brother George Washington’s
gather together on this campus in harmony and progress. hair along with a hand-written letter from our Brother George
This weekend alone, our District Deputy Grand Masters, Washington? Where can you find certificates and documents
Grand Lodge Staff Officers and Assistant Grand Lecturers that rewrite history books? Where can you find tens of
utilized the facilities of the Masonic Care Community thousands of volumes of books that delve into our New York
to receive updates and to share ideas that will benefit our Grand Lodge and other Masonic Grand Lodges and Bodies
Fraternity and its members. around the world?
The Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home Where? The 14th Floor of Masonic Hall in New York City!
When you think of the Trustees you think of a team of And right across the street here in Utica, NY. That’s where!
talented, diverse men who dedicate many hours of service. Your Library has books, artifacts and lectures that attract
You also need to think of this Chapel that we are in today and the people from around the world.
expert care that is needed to keep and maintain this sanctuary, My thanks go to RW Stephen King, the Library Board
as well as the grounds of this Masonic Care Community. President, and the Library Trustees and Staff for their
You need to think of the Masonic Hall in New York City where continued focus and expertise.
our Grand Lodge meets each May, as well as numerous Lodges
and Concordant Bodies. You need to think of the George Youth Groups
Washington Masonic Historic Site at Tappan, NY, which has There is no doubt I have a soft spot in my heart for our
been expanded to include community events during the year. youth groups. And this Grand Lodge watches how our youth
You need to think of our 1,600-acre property at Round Lake are treated and listened to very carefully.
in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York. This is the 100th year of DeMolay. Triangle and Rainbow are
Having a Masonic Hall in New York City is not easy. Security hovering in the 90-plus years and will be at their 100th year
is constantly being evaluated and upgraded, building codes, sooner than we think.
energy efficiencies and more are part of the daily “trestleboard” Your Grand Lodge did not let this Milestone for DeMolay
of these Trustees. Just recently a massive fire sprinkler system go unnoticed. We celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event in
was completed to insure the safety of everyone. Thanks to their the lobby of your Grand Lodge Building and dedicated a
expertise, we are able to support the work that is accomplished window to some of the history of New York DeMolay. It was
here at the Masonic Care Community through the fraternal well attended by local advisors, your Grand Line, the Deputy
and commercial rents that are received. State Master Councilor Austin Altman and the International
The Trustees are also investigating the expansion into “mini Master Councilor Avery Brinkley, who was there from
MCCs” that are closer to our homes in the Eastern and the California.
Western part of the State. My thanks to RW Stephen Getman, You will never regret helping a young person. You will
President, and the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home never regret listening to a young person. You will never regret
for their continued diligence and patience. I urge all Districts learning from a young person.
to plan a trip to this magnificent facility. Have lunch with the
residents. See firsthand the constant care and improvements Speaking on behalf of our youth groups is Miss Megan
Henderson, State Representative of the Organization of
4 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019
GM Address continued from page 2 Lodges telling us not to send any more candidates. Because
they can’t handle them. We will continue to grow in some
Triangles for Girls, Inc. I would ask that the other youth areas of business and population advances, while those areas
leaders join us here. of our jurisdiction that suffer from industry loss will also have
Good Advisors are really the ones that provide the safe an impact on our numbers. But no matter what…they are
environment, positive coaching, and lend an ear when needed. Masons.
As such, your Grand Lodge recognizes that talent and at this RW Jason Sheridan continues to excel as the Grand
time I would ask the RW Bruce Hazard to approach the East Cinematographer, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity
so that I may present him with the well deserved Youth Award to witness Masonry in action.
of Grand Lodge.
Telethon
Masonic War Veterans By the way, does anyone remember we held a Telethon? Not
These dedicated patriots have reinvented themselves just only did we tell the world what the New York Grand Lodge is
like our Military. I remember serving in the U.S. Army and doing, we told the world what Masonry is doing. We basically
every time I heard the word change; I knew it was more work challenged the naysayers to come at me and tell me how wrong
for me. Your Masonic War Veterans were asked to update a our charities are, how wrong our research is, how it is wrong
few things, while still providing the professional escort and that we take care of our elderly, our youth, our veterans, our
protection of our Flag. They are moving in a positive direction. society, our future.
Our Grand Lodge session saw a 30-year-old veteran, a 30-year-
old man that is, receive our highest award, the Distinguished They never came, because they know we are right.
Achievement Medal. Brother William Hoover took 9 rounds Tonight, there will be additional bonding at your hotels.
in his back, chest, arm, and leg as he threw himself in front of But not everyone has a place to go and we have a solution.
others and saved lives. We know that it is Veteran’s Day every Those who do not have a District or Lodge event to attend,
day. you are cordially and fraternally invited to be my guest at the
Day Care Grand Master’s House. There will be grills and the typical
We are a campus that brings together the young and those grilling food. All for you! We want you to be happy that you
a “little bit older.” are here. We want you to be happy that you are a Mason.
Miss Elizabeth of the daycare center and her team are very As we leave this campus after our Scholarship Presentations
proud of their center. We saw their backyard garden, their tomorrow afternoon, we will have a new sense of purpose. We
playground and the loving care of the team. There is a waiting will go back to our Districts and Lodges with the assurance
list to be part of this center. that your Grand Lodge is here to support you, your efforts
and positive ideas.
Greenhouse
(also known as the Horticultural Center) Our slogan this year has changed. From Building the Future,
Last year I stood here and spoke about my vision of building to Share the Experience. Tell others what we do. One may just
a greenhouse. A vision that resonated with more people than be the next Grand Master who joins your Lodge.
I ever expected. Let me cut a year’s worth of updates out and I am very proud of you. Your Grand Lodge is very proud
just say that one year ago it was a vision. This year we have of you.
a foundation and a cornerstone and thanks to the diligence
of RW Robert Raffle, Executive Director of MCC, his staff Remember, we are not just men…we are Masons!
and our Trustees, the greenhouse structure should be up and And this is OUR time, and nobody will take it from us.
running in two months. God Bless each and every one of you. God bless the purposes
You are probably saying that since the greenhouse is going of our Masonic Fraternity and God Bless the United States of
up, we met our financial goal. Not true! I have what they call America.
“a cash advance” and need to clear it out. There are fliers in Fraternally,
the narthex that show how you can purchase a brick or two or
twenty. That brick will forever show your name, the name of
your loved ones, Lodge, etc.
William M. Sardone
I have spoken to our residents and they are excited. In fact, Grand Master of Masons
one group of card-playing ladies donated their winnings of in the State of New York,,
$100 to this project.
I continue to embrace the Past Grand Masters, who are a
collective resource of history and knowledge. I am working
with our Grand Secretary, RW Richard Schulz, and Assistant
Grand Secretary, RW Richard Bateman, on ways to facilitate
expeditious services to our members.
The Grand Secretary’s Office is now open late on TWO
nights to serve you. We have cut dispensation requests from
weeks to hours. RW James Kintzel and his committee have ©Copyright, 2019
cut merger requests from years to months. We have ramped Richard T. Schulz, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge
up our Membership Awareness to the point that there are of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 5
Deputy Grand Master
RW RICHARD J. KESSLER
Deputy Grand Master
DeputyGrandMaster@NYMasons.org
Words to Live by: Strengthening our
jurisdiction one Lodge at a time
T he following is offered for your contemplation. It is a
message from the Installed Master giving thanks for all
he has received.
Let me briefly mention some other positive influences in my
Masonic career: RW Keuther, whose dedication and detail to
our ritual and love of the Craft are unparalleled. MW Gilbert,
To all of the officers who have been installed tonight: I thank you for always knowing what to say and make everyone
Congratulations. I am hoping we have a great year and I want at ease. RW DDGM, thanks for your guidance and assistance.
to thank you in advance for all your help and effort. Thank RW Haslam, your humbleness is an example for all. I also want
you for volunteering to be a part of something bigger than to thank the Deputy Grand Master for his smile, excitement
self and for carrying on the long and proud tradition of our and insightful words when he talks about Freemasonry. I will
Lodge. Thanks for joining me on this journey. always remember this quote from him, “What the world needs
are more Masons.” With more Freemasons like you the world
In opening, I want to thank some of those that helped will be a better place.
me become the man I am. To my parents, the first pillars in
my life: You taught me by example to have a deep belief and My final thanks go to my wife, my life partner, my very
faith in God. You taught me to be true to myself as well as best friend in this world. Thank you! Without your support,
others. You showed me that words and good intentions are love, guidance and counsel I would be lost. You are the perfect
not enough. Good intentions must be followed up by the mother, confidant and partner.
appropriate actions. Leadership is, and always will be, an extension of the example
To my older sister: Thank you for your support, guidance that came before. It is not that the example is always to be
and forgiveness. The traits that you display are examples of followed, but leaders should always try to learn from those
an open and loving heart. Thank you for this example. To my that came before them. The legacy I hope to leave behind is
children: You are the true light of my life. My hope is that I to be a positive example of how a leader should act. A good
provide you the loving environment in which I was brought leader must be a good servant first. I will do my best to lead
up. by example.
To my extended family and friends: Thank you all for My plan for the year is a simple one. Not simple in execution,
supplementing the love and understanding that my family but simple in its goal. We as a Lodge need to come together.
provided. There are too many to mention but you gave me We need to solidify our members into an unbreakable bond.
examples of self-sacrifice and unconditional friendship. You We need to be an example for our Masonic Community of
taught me that there is strength in Charity, Friendship and Brotherly Love and Harmony. This example should permeate
Brotherly Love. It seems in some ways I was always emulating to the larger community around us. Let the community as
the Principles and Tenets of Freemasonry. I just did not know well as the world at large see men pulling together in perfect
it yet! harmony toward the betterment of each other and, therefore
by extension, to the betterment of the world we live in.
My proposer showed a love for the Craft that was apparent
from our first conversation. He stressed how this brotherhood We must be proficient in our actions and our duties that
can improve every facet of my life. The bonds of friendship and collectively we may shine. Let our ritual be felt and not be just
Brotherly Love we discussed have now become second nature. spoken words. We must not merely go through the motions
I want to thank Worshipful Michel who saw something in me but truly learn the meaning of our ritual. By learning the
and appointed me in the line. Your support and guidance have meaning and symbolism of our ritual and living accordingly
been instrumental in my growth. I have also been extremely we can only become better men. Under the Great Architect’s
lucky to serve under many great Masters who collectively guidance we must come together as Brothers all. Let not a
taught me the concept of teamwork and humility. single distressed Brother or his family’s needs go unanswered.
Brotherly Love must always prevail.
I also must thank the entire installing team, especially the
Installing Master for an unforgettable night. The installation To accomplish this goal I will need counsel and guidance.
was filled with tradition, dignity and honor. Thank you for This brotherhood, when in harmony, means that we are not
your guidance, counsel, friendship and brotherhood. Thank islands, but are in mutual dependence and support of each
you for always being there. The example you set is one of other. Let us work together. Together, with the guidance of
tireless effort. God, we have a chance at success.
6 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019
SENIOR GRAND WARDEN
RW CHARLES M. ROBERTS
Senior Grand Warden
SrGrandWarden@NYMasons.org
Masonic Fidelity
FtheItsidelity is the quality of faithfulness, loyalty or trustworthiness.
original meaning regarded duty in a broader sense than
related concept of fealty. Both derive from the Latin word
and financially. We communicate to each other that we are
Brothers under the skin and that Brotherly Love will prevail.
Our life will reflect the Perfect Ashlar of the universe.
fidēlis, meaning “faithful or loyal.” Fidelity has traditionally As Masons we are taught that we should be willing to
been used in the sense encompassed in the motto “My word commit to the teachings of our Craft in order to bring a
is my bond.” At the same time the steadfastness of fidelity of a positive change both in our own lives as well as to others. We
Mason’s life is how well his life denotes an accurate copy of its do this by example, the example of the type of life we choose
source or the realism of the model for one’s existence. For the to lead. Actions always speak louder than words and man
Mason it is how well he represents the Creator of his life, the should always speak the grace that God has instilled in his
Grand Architect of the Universe. heart. Each of us has a choice; we can choose to be a Mason
I am extremely grateful for your vote of confidence in or just a member.
re-electing me as the Senior Grand Warden of this Grand It is important that we live up to our status as a Mason in
Jurisdiction for a second year. I have expressed to several all our actions. When we wonder what that should be, all we
individuals on my Masonic journey that it has always been need to do is remember the Holy Book upon our altar that
my goal to serve any position to which I have been elected or sheds light to us of our duty to God; the Square, our duty to
appointed to the very best of my ability and in such a manner ourselves; and the Compasses, our duty to our fellows. To me,
that it brings honor to my life, but more importantly, to those a Mason is one living his life in accordance with the lessons
for whom I serve. taught to him from his own Holy Book and the Masonic
To be a Mason is a lifelong commitment. Our Masonic duties obligations and ritual lessons he has taken or received. Fidelity
shall follow us every day, not just during Lodge meetings. And closely aligns itself with reverence - that deep feeling of
to measure our success we should every day consult our most respect, awe and humbleness of self in respectful recognition
qualified consultant—our conscience—and ask the question: of something perceived to be greater than the self.
Have we today fulfilled our Masonic duties? Masonic fidelity The choice of how you choose to represent our Fraternity
is being faithful and loyal with our strict adherence to our is one that you must make every day. Remember, in today’s
promises and vows, and thoroughness in the performance of world, someone is always watching, including and more
duty. Being one who is trustworthy. importantly the Grand Architect of the Universe. If we are to
There is a lot communicated from one Mason to another draw the best men to our Fraternity we need to be true and
in the grip of a Mason. When we feel the grip that you and I loyal to the teachings of the Craft and manifest a character
give to each other we are telling each other that we can trust of fidelity that others will want to emulate and live as a true
one another. We communicate silently that we are safe in each Mason.
others company; safe from harm, physically, mentally, morally
Lodge and District
assist vets
O n April 10 at the meeting of John Jay Lodge 653 the
Second Westchester-Putnam District Association
presented a check to Brother Daniel Griffin. Brother
Maurice Krohn, the Association’s Secretary, presented
the $7,500 check.
Brother Griffin is the Executive Director of
Basecamp Westchester. Basecamp Westchester is an
organization in Westchester County that supports
homeless veterans. (l-r) Brother Daniel Griffin; W Anthony Pilla, Master John Jay Lodge;
RW William Keindl, Grand Sword Bearer; RW Michael Grenadier,
District Deputy Grand Master; Brother Maurice Krohn
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 7
JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN
RW E. Oscar Alleyne
Junior Grand Warden
JrGrandWarden@NYMasons.org
The Power of Symbolism.
A s human beings, it is important to ask questions that
probe profoundly into our thinking before we accept ideas
as worthy of belief. The Renaissance (which actually means
by members and nonmembers alike?
The Square and Compasses
The Masonic square and compasses symbolize implements
“rebirth”) was a cultural movement that took hold in Italy in of virtue, which we are taught to use in the conduct of our
the 14th century and spread across Europe for three hundred actions and create a boundary around our emotions so we can
years. It is mostly known for advances in art, literature and keep them under control. In some respect, we can agree that
philosophy. Scholars began to think critically about religion, Freemasonry did not develop in a vacuum. Its symbols, some
art, society, human nature, law and freedom. of which we borrowed from the operative stonemasons, were
This questioning of “what is within us” grew into a visual also being used in the past to teach ethics and morals in books
ideal whereby the art and architecture that resulted, led to the intended for public use. It can be shown that many of the
development of images we can easily identify today. One of symbols we claim as exclusive to Freemasonry were not used
the symbolic tools that came out of the Renaissance was the by us alone.
use of an impresa.
An impresa was a badge which became very popular in the 15th
and 16th centuries. Pastoureau (in his Traité d’Héraldique, 2 ed.,
pp. 218-9) places the use of badges in parallel and sometimes
in opposition to the use of heraldry (what some commonly call
coats of arms or crests). The use of figures such as an animal,
plant or object, to symbolize an individual or family lineage
was quite ancient. Badges gained great importance, perhaps
as a way to individualize what had become a fairly formal and
rigid system.
Starting in the 15th century the badge was often accompanied
by a short motto and this gave rise to what was called in Italian
impresa (plural: imprese), in which a figure called the body of
the badge is combined with a motto called the soul, usually
with the body illustrating the soul, the soul explaining the body
and both alluding to the individual who chose them. By the
16th century books were written on the subject of imprese—
such as Ercole Tasso’s Della realta e perfettione delle Imprese and
Paolo Giovio’s Ragionamento delle Imprese—providing rules on
how to compose them and listing examples of several designs.
Giovio’s rules for creating an impresa were as follows:
• There must be adequate correspondence of body and
soul (figure and motto),
• It must be neither obscure nor too obvious,
• It must have a pleasing appearance,
• It should have no human form,
• The motto should not be in the vernacular of the person
who chose the impresa and should be brief without being
ambiguous.
Where am I going with all of this? Simple. After reading
this description, I would like you to think for a second about
what you would consider to be the badge of Freemasonry. If Antwerp, Belgium: 1557
Impresa for the printer Christophe Plantin with the motto “Labore et
you gave a ritual based answer, then I apologize for the trick Constantia” (Labor and Constancy) and the figure of the compasses,
question but ask that you try again and think closely about held by a hand drawing a circle, set in a decorative border.
what I’m asking. At first glance, what symbol do we constantly
see and use that might be considered the badge of Freemasonry
Junior Warden continues on page 11
8 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019
Grand Treasurer
RW steven adam rubin,
Grand Treasurer
212/643-5402
GrandTreasurer@NYMasons.org
I always find it difficult to write a column for our magazine.
Our submissions are due on July 1 for publication in the
fall. So let me fill in the blanks just a bit and make some
even more encouraging was the large numbers of Past Masters
in attendance, supporting their Brothers and their Worshipful
Masters-Elect. For this is how Masonry thrives and not merely
prognostications, as Art Carney would say, of the summer that survives: by passing down knowledge and light to the next
was: I ate too much at the pig roasts and barbecues; I didn’t generation and always supporting each other.
win any trophies at the Masonic Golf Tournaments; and I I congratulate all new Worshipful Masters on your ascension
didn’t catch the biggest fish in my Lodge’s fishing outing… to the East. You will find your new position in the Craft at
but it was a great summer! I hope yours was just as successful. times challenging, on occasion humbling, but at all times
My Brothers, in an age before States, a time before Presidents, rewarding. You now rank as leaders in the Craft and must
the story of our Grand Jurisdiction began when the seed of our always govern yourselves accordingly. You can delegate duties
Masonic philosophy was planted in local soil. Over the past but not your responsibilities. The future of Masonry is in your
two centuries there have been abundant harvests that have hands and we are counting on your success.
been nourished by the dedication of those men and Masons Finally, I wish to remind you that as our Grand Master
who have gone this way before us. Many of their names are has called for a Special Grand Lodge Session this October
known and praised, but even more have been lost to time. at our Masonic Care Community, it is incumbent upon
Yet, while their names might be forgotten, their deeds live each Worshipful Master to attend, for you are Grand Lodge.
on in each of us. We are their progeny, the children of those Indeed, the awesome power and authority of our Grand Master
momentous beginnings and humble men. We honor them emanates from the authority that flows from you. It has been
and our Creator by continuing our own Masonic journey and said by some that Freemasonry is not a democracy. While it
spreading the Light of the Craftsman, for this is our time, our is true that our Worshipful Masters and Grand Master wield
chapter to write. awesome power and authority, it is the Body—the Lodge and
I have been honored to speak on countless occasions at Grand our Grand Lodge—that elects our leadership and sets its laws
Lodge. To date, the highlight of my speaking opportunities that all must follow. So guard that vote and wield it wisely;
was this past spring when I addressed six District Investiture but to do so, you first must show up and be counted. I am
Ceremonies around our Grand Jurisdiction. East or west, north looking forward to seeing each of you at our beautiful Masonic
or south, the locales differed but not the spirit of enthusiasm Campus for this historic Session.
and excitement of each new Worshipful Master. What was
Junior Warden continued from page 10
Going back in history before the Renaissance, in the sixth into our thinking before we accept ideas as worthy of belief.
book of the philosophy of Mencius in China, we find these Yes, the symbols are ancient and sometimes had the same
words: “A Master Mason, in teaching Apprentices, makes use meaning and seem to have been interpreted in the same way
of the Compass and the Square. Ye who are engaged in the we do today. However, the easy answer may not always be
pursuit of wisdom must also make use of the Compass and the right answer. The power of symbolism encourages us to
the Square.” consider that while we may not be the first to use them, we
In the oldest Chinese classic The Book of History, dating back are presently charged to embrace and study them in order
two thousand years before our time, we find the following: “Ye to understand their story and their lessons—if we are to
Officers of the Government, apply the Compasses.” There is remain critical and free thinkers. After all, Freemasonry is that
also the mythological creation story of FuXi and NuWa, who beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated
are shown carrying the Compasses and the Square which they by symbols. Recognize the power of your impresa from within.
are said to have used to repopulate the earth after a great flood. Antwerp, Belgium: 1557
So we must conclude and believe that the ancient use of Impresa for the printer Christophe Plantin with the motto
this symbol we associate now with Freemasonry means that “Labore et Constantia” (Labor and Constancy) and the figure
this is evidence that Freemasonry existed way before what is of the compasses, held by a hand drawing a circle, set in a
commonly accepted as its origins…. Not so fast! Remember decorative border.
that it is important to ask deep questions that probe profoundly
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 9
Grand Secretary
RW richard t. Schulz
Grand Secretary
Masonic Hall
71 West 23rd Street
New York NY 10010
212/337-6644
GrandSecretary@NYMasons.org
G reetings! I have organized a committee to help draft a new
Secretary’s Manual. We have made significant progress
and I hope we are ready to share it with you early next year.
For those of you who have gone to past luncheons, please
drop me a line and let me know how we can improve them.
Last year we had a light turnout in Tampa but we’re coming
I am once again happy to announce the continuation of the back for 2020. If you want to continue to see us there in future
Florida Sojourners Luncheons in January 2020. This year we years, come on out this January.
have added a fourth venue to our list. As in past years, our In other news, I am excited to finally be able to share with
Grand Master, MW William M. Sardone, and other members you that we are planning to distribute Permanent Dues Cards
of our Grand Lodge, the Grand Matron-Elect, RW Katherine for 2020. You will receive them directly through Grand Lodge.
Wharmby, the Grand Patron-Elect, RW Kenneth W. Your Lodge will be sending you dues notices but no longer
Wheeler, and other members of the Order of the Eastern distribute the dues cards. We’re expecting these permanent
Star, will meet and greet our members who now reside in the dues cards to expire at year-end 2022 (i.e., 12/31/2022), after
Sunshine State. which we will distribute new permanent dues cards with any
On the next page is the form to fill out and return, along necessary improvements. The cards will have a QR code that
with a $10/person fee. Members with special Masonic can be used with Amity’s “King Solomon’s Pass” (KSP). The
milestones (fifty, fifty-five, sixty years and up) will be honored. KSP will be able to provide online, real-time Good-Standing
All the luncheons begin at 12:00 noon except for the one in status. Additionally, the card will have your Grand Lodge
The Villages, which is a brunch beginning at 11:00 a.m. All of number on it, to be used with the MORI system’s Status
them last approximately two hours. Checker on Our Lodge Page (OLP). Members and Lodges
will receive more information in the weeks ahead.
Here is the schedule:
Wednesday, January 8, 2020 in SARASOTA (SW Coast Finally, please take a moment and help us maintain your
of Florida) at the Sahib Shrine Center, AAONMS, 600 North latest email address. Please email your current email address
Beneva Road, 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m.; to lodgeregistry@nymasons.org or directly to me at my email
address. Please remember to include your name and Lodge so
Thursday, January 9, 2020 in TAMPA (West Coast of that we can match it properly. Thank you.
Florida) at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 5500 Memorial
Highway (near Egypt Shrine Masonic Center), 12:00 noon to
2:00 p.m.;
Friday, January 10, 2020 in THE VILLAGES (North
Central Florida) at The Waterfront Inn at Lake Sumpter
Landing, 1105 Lakeshore Drive, The Villages, 11:00 a.m. to RW Richard T. Schulz
1:00 p.m. Grand Secretary
Saturday, January 11, 2020 in PALM BEACH GARDENS
(SE Coast of Florida) at the Embassy Suites, 4350 PGA Blvd.,
Palm Beach Gardens, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
Lodge Donates TVs to MCC
O n June 13 Brothers from Ken-
Ton Lodge 1186 met with Brother
Myron Thurston III, administrator in
charge of Fraternal Relations and Major
Gifts at the Masonic Care Community.
Their mission: to deliver three LED TVs
donated by Brother Rodney Stellrecht.
Brother Stellrecht is owner of Rod’s TVs
in Lockport, NY.
(l-r) Brother Paul LaTurner; W Ken JP
Stuczynski, Brother Rodney Stellrecht,
Brother Myron Thurston III
10 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019SPECIAL NOTE: If your membership in Masonry totals [50], [55], [60], [65], [70], [75] years, either this year, or in
the year 2020, and you wish to have the Grand Master present the Service Award Certificate at the luncheon, please
circle your anniversary year above, and check one of the boxes below:
q Yes - I joined in 19_____ q No, I received one earlier this year. q No, I plan to receive it in my Lodge.Lodge.
his First*
s e Read T
Plea
GRAND LODGE F. & A. M., STATE OF NEW YORK
2020 FLORIDA SOJOURNER MEETING ~ RESERVATIONS FORM
Yes, I plan to attend the following luncheon meeting (Please check one):
q Wednesday, January 8, in Sarasota
q Thursday, January 9, in Tampa
q Friday, January 10, in The Villages 11 am Brunch
q Saturday, January 11, in Palm Beach Gardens
I am a member of ______________________________________________________ Lodge No. ____________________
My companion named below q is q is not a member of the ORDER of the EASTERN STAR.
PLEASE PRINT AND COMPLETE THE REMAINDER OF THIS FORM:
______________________________________________ _________________________________________________
(Your Name) (Your Companion’s Name)
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Street)
__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________
(City, State & Zip Code) (Telephone)
____________________________________________________________ @ ________________________________________________________
(e-mail address)
Please PRINT additional names of each person who will accompany you and indicate affiliation:
NAME LODGE/CHAPTER
______________________________________________________ _________________________________________
______________________________________________________ _________________________________________
______________________________________________________ _________________________________________
______________________________________________________ _________________________________________
Enclosed is my check, or money order, (do not send cash) payable to OES~MASONS Sojourner Luncheon:
__________ Luncheon Ticket(s) @ $10.00 per person listed above
Please do not send cash. Total amount of check or money order. . .$ __________
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 11Grand Secretary’s Golf
T o quote Bill Murray’s character Carl Spackler in the movie
Caddyshack, “I don’t think the heavy stuff ’s gonna come
down for quite a while.” It was a wet golf course for the
prizes.
The Grand Master presented the trophies. When he thanked
everyone for coming and supporting the Grand Secretary’s
11th Annual Grand Secretary’s Golf Classic, but play we did Golf Classic he appointed RW Walter Wasnieski as chairman
through rain and at times some serious fog. For the fourth year of the Community Service Committee. Henceforth, the golf
we returned to the private Woodmere Club on the beautiful outing is a function of that committee.
south shore of Nassau County.
We look forward to an even bigger turnout at next year’s
In our eleventh year of holding the Grand Secretary’s Golf Grand Secretary’s Golf Classic. The 12th Annual Grand
Classic, we hoped for a record fundraising effort and we Secretary’s Golf Classic will take place on Monday, June 22,
raised over $34,000 for charity. We donate to both Masonic 2020 at Cold Spring Country Club in Huntington, NY.
and non-Masonic charities: the Masonic Care Community, Watch for the flyer in upcoming issues of the Empire State
Livingston Library, and the Second Kings “Ruby Kaplan” Mason. Get your Lodges and Districts involved by becoming
Scholarship Fund; also this year we donated to the MMRI one of our sponsors. Remember, a bad day of golf is better
Project Autism in honor of the RW Pat Imbimbo’s son. The than a good day at work, especially when it’s all for charity. See
two non-Masonic charities are Caddy for a Cure, which helps you next year.
veterans who suffer from both physical and mental disabilities
such as PTSD, and the Viscardi Center, which helps children
to young adults who are physically or mentally handicapped.
The 152 golfers represented our biggest turnout to date. Each
golfer received gifts provided by Brother-owned businesses,
plus a pair of Nike golf shoes. A backpack came from W Mike
Toron‘s Minuteman Press in Hewlett, NY and On Core golf
balls, the official golf ball of the outing, is owned by Brother
Nasser Sutherland.
David Gaynes, Alan Wolfbiss, Andy Robbins and Mark
Weingard took Low Gross honors with a score of 52. The
winning Low Net Team was W Dean Garrett, Neila Garrett,
Damien Garrett and Craig DiGiacomo, with a net score of 60.
Matt Livolsi won the long drive with a drive of over 360 yards.
Susan Monosson won the women’s long drive. PGM Carl J.
Fitje won the Gil Savitzky Trophy.
The success of any golf outing depends upon the volunteers.
The Grand Lodge Fellowship Committee thanks the Trustees
of the Masonic Hall and Home for their support year after
year. This year they sponsored the golf carts and some of the
Trustees and their spouses joined us for dinner.
Thanks go to the vendors of Grand Lodge who sponsored
holes and brought golfers to play. Also, thanks go to Rob
Raffle for bringing a Utica corporate team to play golf. We
had an abundant supply of Masonic Lodges who sponsored or
brought Brothers to golf, and the Ridgewood Masonic Temple
Guild for the tenth year sponsored the banquet. The Masonic
Yacht Club year after year supports the event with golfers and
12 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019The Battle within –
A Gift from Masons to the Veteran Community
By W William B. Chapin II
Harmonie Lodge 699 O.M.
Co-Founder, The Battle within Foundation
Park. The day’s events were covered by local and national
media and stories were featured for weeks leading up to and
after the ceremonies.
The day began with a memorial service on the decks of the
U.S.S. Little Rock and U.S.S. The Sullivans. Speakers shared
personal stories of how they have been touched by PTSD and
suicide. Friends, family, neighbors – nearly every one of the
approximately 500 in attendance know someone who has lost
his battle or is still fighting it today.
Worshipful William Chapin, co-founder of The Battle
within Foundation shared the story of Brother Peter Schank,
Captain, U.S. Army, whose untimely death was the flash-point
that inspired the project. RW Brian Will, Grand Chaplain,
of Niagara Frontier Post No. 10, Masonic War Veterans,
led the community in thoughtful and meaningful prayer.
Paul Marzello, CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval
& Military Park gave remarks on the mission of the park.
Lieutenant Colonel W Daniel Walther and RW John Rowan,
President of Vietnam Veterans of America, narrated a flag-
folding ceremony and recognized the veterans in attendance.
The keynote speaker for the event was Casimiro D.
O n a peaceful, grass-covered hill, framed by blooming
cherry trees, now sits a striking monument. It is designed
to bring awareness of an issue ravaging our country – an issue
Rodriguez Sr., President of Hispanic Heritage Council of
WNY. He shared a moving story about his brother Gabe, who
that until recently was only discussed in hushed tones behind served in Vietnam and returned changed, ultimately taking
closed doors. American service members who have spent his own life. A joint color guard from the United States Naval
years feeling the weight of a judgmental society and battling Sea Cadets, Ismalia Shrine, and the Masonic War Veterans
emotions that they are trained to push down and ignore, symbolically showed the bridge built between the Masonic,
have discovered a peaceful place, free of social stigma, to talk, Veteran and Western New York Communities.
remember and begin to heal. Widows who have never been
able to take their children to a public place of honor and show
them that their fathers died for their freedom, as American
heroes, can now do so. The Brothers of the Erie Masonic
District, led by Harmonie Lodge 699 O.M., banded together
to make this their personal cause.
On Memorial Day, May 27, 2019, The Battle within
Foundation unveiled and dedicated The Battle within
Memorial. The event was the largest and most well-attended
in the history of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military
After the memorial service a Masonic parade of hundreds,
conducted by RW John Haslam, marched the length of the
Naval Park. Coming to the monument site, the procession
formed around an altar for the ceremony of dedicating and
laying the cornerstone, while the Buffalo and Niagara Concert
Band entertained the crowd with patriotic standards. Corn,
wine, and oil were spread by our Deputy Grand Master, RW
Battle Within continues on to page 14
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 13Battle Within continued from page 13 In the forty-plus years since the end of the Vietnam War,
we have lost more American heroes due to suicide than all
Richard J. Kessler, and the stone was tried by RW Charles foreign wars and conflicts in that period combined. Despite
Roberts, RW Lawrence Kania and RW Peter Stein. RW John the very best efforts of family, friends, the VA, and scores of
Koller and RW Donald Williams inspected and presented the highly dedicated veteran’s-based organizations, approximately
working tools under the watchful eye of MW Carl Smith, twenty veterans each day are lost to us due to complications
MW James Sullivan, and MW Jeffrey Williamson. from wounds and injuries we cannot see. That’s 7,300 brave
After the ceremonies it was time to unveil the monument. men and women a year who volunteered and stood on the
Brother Mark Donnelly, PhD., Co-Founder and designer of yellow footprints and swore an oath to protect and defend
The Battle within Memorial shared his artistic vision and spoke our country. They proved this commitment, many seeing and
of how each visitor can find his own personal meaning while experiencing the unimaginable in our name. Unfortunately,
gazing through the empty space in the center of the memorial. they made it through one war only to come home to fight
He asked for help from the crowd to start a conversation. another.
Only through willingness to open up and discuss what we’re
facing in our communities can healing start to take hold. Dr.
Donnelly referenced a bench in front of the memorial with a
placard that simply says, “Let’s Talk.”
RW Daniel Di Natale provided context to the gathered
crowd and media members on why Masons build, our
transition from operative to speculative Masons, and why
we dedicate ourselves to serving in our community. RW Di
Natale also introduced the Director of PTSD Program Clinic
at the VA Hospital, who reiterated the support available to
any veterans or the family who may be struggling. Mr. Dolata
remained after the ceremony and was approached immediately
by veterans currently being tormented and connected them to
resources who will help them in their fight. It is our sincerest goal that The Battle within Memorial
Finally, RW Richard Kessler, Deputy Grand Master, spoke to will help to capture the public’s attention, underscore the
the crowd from the heart. With a mix of pride in his Brothers veteran community’s commitment to easing the suffering,
and the Grand Lodge of New York and the personal pain and honor our heroes for their service, regardless of where
of the loss of his childhood friend to PTSD after Vietnam, they died. To get involved in The Battle within Foundation’s
he thanked all those who gave their time to come together mission, to learn more, or to make a financial contribution,
for the day’s auspicious event. He noted the approval of the visit thebattlewithinfoundation.com. The foundation will
Great Architect of the Universe in motivating the Masonic continue beyond 2019 fighting against the stigmas of PTSD
community to achieve something so personal and special in and suicide and connecting veterans in need with the care they
our community and all the blessings we enjoy. so rightly deserve.
Three Seaman
Eagles
(l-r) George and Dianne Seaman; James E
Seaman; Matthew T. Seaman; and Robert
Seaman; Cub Scout Nate O’Sullivan and
RW Cary Cohn
(Troop 656 is RW Cohn’s
Troop in Wantagh, NY.)
14 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 20192019 St. John’s Weekend
by RW Richard Bateman
MW William Sardone, Grand Master presenting a commission
as our newest Grand Chaplain to RW Robert M. Schvey
at Tompkins Memorial Chapel
MW William M. Sardone as the Master Chef during a visit to the
various Districts on St. John’s Day in Utica, NY
RW Richard Bateman visiting RW Ray Platto,
retired Grand Lodge employee, at the MCC
(Ray worked for many years as the RW Robert M. Schvey officiating as the Rabbi during
Mail Room Supervisor at the Masonic Hall in NYC) Friday’s Religious Services at the MW Harry Ostrov Chapel
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 15Grand Historian
RW GARY L. HEINMILLER
Grand Historian
315/622-1167
garylheinmiller@gmail.com
Swords in Freemasonry
I n about February 2009 our Lodge was presented with a
large and most elegant (broad)sword from a Brother. With
the permission of the Worshipful Master I was afforded the
which guarded the entrance to Paradise, as described in
Genesis (iii, 24)…
In former times, when the symbols and ceremonies were
opportunity to present it to the Tiler of our Lodge. In the more respected than they are now; when collars were worn,
course of the presentation I made an allusion to the symbolism and not ribbons in the buttonhole; and when the standing
of the Tiler and the sword, asking of the brethren assembled, column of the Senior Warden, and recumbent one of the Junior
“In our Sacred Volume, where does the first sword appear?” Warden during labor, to be reversed during refreshment, were
One of more learned Brothers noted it was in the Book of deemed necessary for the complete furniture of the Lodge, the
Genesis upon the occasion of the Expulsion of Adam and Eve cavalry sword was unknown as a Masonic implement, and the
from the Garden of Eden. He was, of course, correct (Genesis Tiler always bore a flaming sword. It were better if we could
3:24). get back to the old customs.”
In contemplating the history and ritual of the Lodge, as I I have often had such confirmations for my strange thoughts.
have often done, it came to me that the speculative symbology Brother Mackey did not provide a reference for his entry, and
of the Tiler related to this same flaming sword as found in quite likely a host of Brothers may not see it this way (or any
Genesis. Many, if not most, Brothers may take umbrage to way at all) but it struck me that I should at least record some
such an interpretation of our ritual, but in recently looking further thoughts on this interesting matter.
up the American Union Lodge for another paper I found a
fine reference in Volume 1 of Mackey’s Revised Encyclopedia If a Brother is a Master Mason, of what is he a “Master?” A
of Freemasonry. (Revised and Enlarged by Robert I. Clegg – good question to consider.
H. L. Haywood Memorial Edition, 1946, 9th printing 1966, There is an implication in ritualistic pursuits, such as but not
Macoy Publishing). Having a rather fine collection of Masonic limited to Freemasonry, of the attainment of Edenic Grace, by
books, I pulled this volume from my bookshelf. For some whatever name it may be known. This is a return to that state,
reason I also pulled Volume 2 and set both of them at my left that Unity with our Creator, in which we were before the fall
elbow. These two volumes lay there for weeks, until I picked from grace in the Garden of Eden.
up Volume 2 and thumbed through the interesting graphics
therein (from the middle of the book to the beginning). On Returning to the Garden for a moment, Man at one time
impulse, I looked at the graphics from the back of the book to is portrayed as a Unity in Adam, before the Duality occurred
the middle and came across a graphic on page 1001, adjoining with the appearance of Eve. At that time a man and woman
the following: came into being, represented in Freemasonry (and Solomon’s
Temple) by the Pillars of Boaz (Terrestrial on the left: feminine)
“SWORD, TILER’S. In modern times the implement and Jachin (Celestial on the right: masculine). This duality
used by the Tiler is a sword of the ordinary form. This may be found in nearly all world religions and philosophies,
is incorrect. Formerly, and indeed up to a comparatively along with a rite, ritual or process by which we may attain to
recent period, the Tiler’s sword was wavy in shape, and so the Unity (by whatever of the legion of means or name it may
made in allusion to the ‘flaming sword’ which was placed be known).
at the east of the Garden of Eden, which turned every
way to keep the way of the tree of life.’ It was, of course, If Adam and Eve were expelled from Paradise and flaming
without a scabbard, because the Tiler’s sword should ever sword was placed there, which turned every way to keep the
be drawn and ready for the defense of his post.” way of the tree of life, how, if ever, is anyone to return to attain
Edenic Grace? Are we to wander endlessly for all Eternity in
Brother Mackey has another reference in page 359, Volume the limbo and illusion of duality? Perhaps there is more to our
1, of this same Encyclopedia where he elaborates and appears Edenic origins to consider.
to have a rather impassioned feeling for it and of having had
some experience with the Lodge usage of the “flaming sword.” In every well governed Lodge the Tiler (Tyler) stands at the
Outer Door of the Lodge; he need not necessarily be a Master
“FLAMING SWORD. A sword whose blade is of a Mason, nor a member of the Lodge. In this present discussion
spiral or twisted form is called by the heralds a flaming we should be aware that the sword appears in Craft ceremonial
sword, from its resemblance to the ascending curvature of usage or reference in several different contexts:
a flame of fire. Until very recently, this was the form of the • The Tiler’s Sword
Tiler’s sword. Carelessness or ignorance has now in many • The Grand Sword Bearer, an office held at Masonic
Lodges substituted for it a common sword of any form. District level
The flaming sword of the Tiler refers to the flaming sword • The Grand Tiler of a Grand Lodge
16 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience FALL 2019• The Sword and the Book of Constitutions
Recognizing
• The Sword Pointing to a Naked Heart
• The reception of a Candidate in the First Degree
• “Walking the Sword” while reciting the Tyler’s Oath
• In older times a sword was held to the heart while taking
the obligation
a true leader
• The sword that in older times rested with the Worshipful
Master in the East
• Swords associated with Orders such as Knights Templar or
with the four veils in the Royal Arch
The usage of a Tiler’s sword apparently goes back to at least
the time of William Preston, ca 1772, where we may find it
recorded in his First Degree Lecture, General Section, Open,
as follows:
(Ref: Transactions of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge No.
2076, Volume 82, 1969, page 111/)
W.M. . . . “what is the first care of every Mason?
J.W. To see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
W.M. Bro. J.W., where is the situation of the O.G. (Outer
Guard)?
J.W. Without the entrance of the Lodge.
W.M. His duty there?
J.W. Being armed with a drawn sword he is to keep off all
intruders and cowans to Masonry and see that the candidate
comes properly prepared.
First seal of the Antient Grand Lodge- 1751
I t is with great pleasure that your Grand Lodge recognized
RW Bruce Hazard for his work and leadership in DeMolay.
Brother Hazard came back to help DeMolay as the Executive
Officer and did what a true youth leader should do. He
listened to the young men. His long background of success
in the District, Concordant Bodies and Grand Lodge clearly
helped DeMolay.
Brother Hazard has since moved onto the Grand Lodge
Youth Committee with empowerment to continue to watch
over DeMolay. He also completed another step in his life’s
journey by being ordained in the Methodist Church as a
member of the clergy.
It was fitting that our Masonic Youth were well represented
on that same day. All feel Brother Hazard’s absence as the
DeMolay Executive Officer and look forward to his continued
success.
In the satirical introduction to Dermott’s Ahiman Rezon,
1764, p. xxxii., is the following passage: “There is now in my
neighbourhood a large piece of iron scroll work, ornamented
with foliage, etc., painted and gilt (the whole at an incredible
expense), and placed before the Master’s chair, with a gigantic
sword fixed therein, during the communication of the
members, a thing contrary to all the private and public rules
of Masonry, all the implements of war and bloodshed being
confined to the Lodge door, from the day that the flaming
sword was placed in the east of the Garden of Eden, to the day
that the sagacious modern placed his grand sword of state in
the midst of his lodge.”
For reference, such a “wavy sword” (a flamberge) may be
found for sale at https://www.amazon.com/Masonic-Revival-
26-Flaming-Sword/dp/B07KPSP7TJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmrnu
ll_1?keywords=masonic+revival+sword&qid=1551802027&s
=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmrnull
A twelve-page version of this discussion may be obtained
from garylheinmiller@gmail.com.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE FALL 2019 17You can also read
