August 2024 Stated Communication

Full Trestleboard available here.

Fellowcraft Degree Night

My Brethren,

Greetings!

It’s not very often that one is part of history. Sure, we’ve all been a witness to history, be it televised or unfolding right before our eyes, but very rarely do we have a part in it. Especially when it comes to Freemasonry. I’m proud to share two moments in June where such opportunities were presented.

The first was the Universal Brotherhood Celebration, Universal Lodge and Festive Board hosted by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge (MWPHGL) of the District of Columbia. This was a first-of-its-kind event, in that, for the first time in our modern history, both Grand Lodges met and sat together. This was my first time ever visiting a Prince Hall Lodge, much more their Grand Lodge. While I am still learning my way around downtown, any doubt in my mind as to where this historic building is on U Street quickly evaporated as soon as I saw the smiling faces of Brethren all dressed in black suits, white shirts, and black ties.

WB Anand Trivedi and I had the honor of sitting as the Sr. and Jr. Stewards, representing St. John’s, during the opening and closing of the Universal Lodge.During the Lodge meeting, we witnessed the exemplification of the EA Degree by the MWPHGL degree cast. To say they have a commitment to strong ritual and floorwork is an understatement! I could feel their footsteps fall in unison and the words are still firmly in my memory. This event was one of the best attended that I have witnessed during my three years in DC; I hope that more Brothers find time to be a part of next year’s program!

The second historical moment was also meaningful, as St. John’s Lodge Brothers and Job’s Daughter International Sisters and Guardians honored the memory of WB Dad John Regner during a joint Table Lodge of Instruction and celebrated WB Karl Gruel at our Fidelity Medal presentation. As I stated in my remarks that evening, the Fidelity Medal recipient is merely the custodian of the honor. The medal is a testament to character, resilience, devotion, sacrifice, and support. WB Gruel exemplifies the true meaning of fidelity. His unique story, one he has famously stated, that St. John’s Lodge is his family. Tonight, your family is recognizing your dedication, the lasting impact you have made on countless lives, and for that we are eternally grateful.

Finally, my Brothers, if it is within your cable-tow, I invite you to be a part of history at our August Communication as we welcome MWB Jacob M. Bressman, Grand Master of the District of Columbia and MWB Steven Adam Rubin, Grand Master of New York to dinner. MWB Rubin will be traveling with a delegation from the Grand Lodge of New York.

A catered BBQ buffet dinner will be provided – open to all St. John’s Lodge members and guests, beginning at 8 p.m. in the dining room of the Almas Shriner Temple. Please R.S.V.P. to the Worshipful Master by Monday, July 29. No RSVP, no seat, no exceptions.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
W.B. Michael Arce
Worshipful Master

Full Trestleboard available here.