From the East

By Paul Rodriguez-Obrien, PM—Master

Brethren and Families,

Your Officers, their families, and I have returned from our Traveling Degree to Pacific Grove Lodge No. 331, near Monterey, where we had the pleasure and honor of raising our Brothers Ned and Jacob Herrick to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.

We were blessed with beautiful weather and warmly welcomed by their Worshipful Master, Michael Grimmer; Junior Warden, Jason Barnett; and Inspector Jaymcee Castro of Masonic District 557.

Through a perfect storm of imperfect timing, we found ourselves in need of a Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and Senior Deacon to complete the degree team. Through some creative planning, a little friendly persuasion, and perhaps a Hail Mary or two, we managed to assemble the necessary officers to confer a double Third Degree.

What followed was a memorable demonstration of Masonic brotherhood, as two Lodges that had never worked together before came together in remarkable harmony, taking our three steps in unison. Without the generous assistance of our Brothers from Pacific Grove, this degree simply would not have been possible.

The raising of Brothers Ned and Jacob Herrick was a truly enjoyable occasion, and we are exceedingly proud to welcome these fine men as Master Masons of our Lodge.

Following a long and rewarding day, our Officers, their significant others, and our newly raised Master Masons gathered at a local chowder restaurant, where we had reserved a private dining room. I counted 21 in attendance! What a fantastic turnout for a Traveling Degree held 108 miles from our own Lodge. It was a wonderful conclusion to a memorable day of Masonry and fellowship.

Looking Ahead to November

As we enter November, our attention turns toward preparing our Officer Line for the chairs of 2027. Our November Stated Meeting will include the annual Election of Officers, and I encourage all Masons to attend and participate. Your voice and your vote (as a Master Mason) matter in shaping the future of our Lodge.

December Events

December promises to be another busy and enjoyable month!

December 5th, 5:00 PM – Installation of Officers

We will hold our annual Installation of Officers, followed by a Lodge-sponsored dinner. This is an open installation, and all family members and friends are warmly invited to attend. Please RSVP with our Secretary so we can ensure there is plenty of food for everyone.

December 12th, 11:30 AM – Lodge Holiday Party

Our annual Holiday Party is just around the corner! Rumor has it that, provided enough good girls and boys RSVP, Santa himself may make a special appearance to gather those last-minute Christmas wishes. We hope to make this a memorable and enjoyable gathering for the entire family, young and young at heart alike!

December 17th – Third Degree (Tentative)

We are hopeful that we will have the opportunity to raise Brother Dennis Sumague to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Additional information will follow as plans are finalized.

Moving Forward Together

As always, our goal is to continue moving Crow Canyon Lodge forward as a welcoming and enjoyable place where Masonry, friendship, and fellowship can flourish.

I encourage each of you to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions with me or any of our Officers. Your participation and enthusiasm are essential to the continued success of our Lodge, and every contribution helps strengthen the bonds that unite us.

Together, may we continue our labors for the benefit of Masonry in general, and this Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in particular.

I look forward to seeing you in Lodge and enjoying your fellowship in the months ahead.