From the East

By Paul Rodriguez-Obrien, PM—Master

Brethren and Families,

I recently had the pleasure of attending the April DeMolay stated meeting, and I was truly moved by the exceptional work demonstrated by these young men. Their memory work and floor performance were outstanding, and I hold great hope that we may one day welcome many of them as Officers in our Lodge.

That would have been enough for a great night, but there’s more!

Just two days prior, my wife Diana and I attended Acacia Lodge No. 243 in Hayward for their combined 150th Anniversary and Rededication of a Chartered Lodge. The event was well attended by the Most Worshipful Grand Master Garrett S. Chan and many other Grand Lodge officers. Our DeMolay also supported the occasion by providing dining services.

Through the efforts of our dedicated DeMolay “Dads,” a special visit was arranged from the Grand Master to our DeMolay stated meeting. Despite the short notice, he graciously accepted and joined us to witness the splendid display of our DeMolay.

At the close of the meeting, the Grand Master rose to express his sincere appreciation for the invitation and for the excellence displayed during the stated meeting. He shared reflections on his own time in DeMolay in San Francisco, including his participation in P.R.I.D.E. Ritual Competitions and his service as a Divisional Master Councilor, during the same period that our own Brother Steve Kolden held that title. To conclude, he presented each DeMolay brother with one of his personal challenge coins, a gesture that made the evening even more meaningful.

During the Stated meeting, the DeMolay proudly displayed their P.R.I.D.E. Ritual Competition awards. Their accomplishments were remarkable as they dominated the event. Eleven participants brought home nine awards and seven trophies, many of them first place honors.

When you next see our DeMolay, please take a moment to congratulate them and offer a handshake. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Brother Dad Steve Kolden and all the dedicated “Dads” who work tirelessly to support and guide these young men.

Looking ahead, the month of May will be an important and active one for our Lodge. We are preparing to initiate two gentlemen into the Entered Apprentice degree on May 28th, and your Officers and I eagerly anticipate continuing the growth of our just and legally constituted Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.

Additionally, we will be partnering with the American Red Cross to host our first blood drive at the Castro Valley Masonic Center on May 23rd. Blood supplies remain critically low, and this is an opportunity for us to serve our community in a meaningful way. Many of us have loved ones and friends who may one day depend on such generosity.

Flyers have been distributed to neighboring Lodges, and we are hopeful for a strong response from our brethren and their families. Please consider participating if you are able. You may contact me or our Junior Deacon, Brother Aaron Johnson, to schedule an appointment.