VWB C. Blair Leckie Deputy of the Grand Master in District 4 of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington for 2005-2007 Mailto: cblairl@excite.com

A Well Governed Lodge (October 2006)

One of the many rewarding enjoyments of being a Mason is the privilege of attending a meeting in a well-governed lodge.  Whether it is a special communication or a regularly stated meeting, one comes away with a sense of purpose, renewal and shared pride.  A well-performed opening and closing reflects meaningful preparation.  One is appreciative of the hours of study, the practice and the coordinated efforts of the line of officers as they conduct themselves properly through the ritual and drama of a degree.  As impressive and inspirational as it always is, it is not just the precisely performed ceremonies that stand out.  There also exists a distinct but less tangible presence in the lodge.  The spirit of cooperation among Brothers, enthusiasm, camaraderie and acceptance pervades the meeting.  There exists the ability to disagree amicably without rancor or contentiousness.  While decorum and respect for the Masonic institution and its rites is the cardinal rule, humor and witty, light-hearted repartee also has its place.  These meetings mirror the purpose of Masonry, and cause us to bring out, or at least to reflect upon our higher, better selves.

As District Deputy, I attend my share of meetings both within and outside of our district.  Most are capably conducted.  Very few are not.  While it is probably not the politic thing to do, I feel the need to pay some wages and single out for praise a particular lodge.  From their tastefully detailed and impeccably maintained lodge building, to the eloquence and proficiency of every one of its officers in every element of our ritual, to the sense of enjoyment and mutual support one feels there, Greenwood Lodge No. 253 is an exemplary model of a well-governed lodge.  It is not surprising that in last year’s Grand Lodge competition for the proficiency of Masters and Wardens, Greenwood Lodge No. 253 sent a team to compete.  As a result of that competition, Brother Marv Pearson was judged to be the best Senior Warden.  It was my pleasure to present the award to him at their last stated meeting.  This award brings distinction to our district, to Greenwood Lodge and of course, to Brother Marv Pearson.  It was a celebratory way in which to begin our Masonic year. Congratulations to Greenwood Lodge No. 253, to Brother Marv Pearson and to all of us in District Four.

Thanks to both the District Deputy of the Grand Master in District 4, and the Masonic Monitor which publishes his articles for allowing us to reprint them.  The Masonic Monitor is published monthly (except August) under approval of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington.  The Masonic Monitor can be contacted at: 6619 132nd Avenue NE, PMB 237, Kirkland, WA, 98033-8627, USA.  Phone: (425) 822-4605 - FAX: (425) 822-2535 - Email: masonicmonitor@earthlink.net.