Working Tools: A Book to Read and Easter!

/

The next meeting of the Working Tools Group will be:

When: Thursday, April 13th at 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Where: TBA, possibly the patio at Grana

What is the Working Tools Group?

Many of us were drawn to Freemasonry out of a strong yearning to seek a truth hidden in the ancient wisdom, which has been handed down to us through the teachings of several mystical and philosophical traditions.  Indeed, one could argue that this is the primary purpose of our Craft.  Part of the mission of the Masonry is to take good men and make them better.  Our lodge has brothers with an abundance of experience, expertise and wisdom.  This group is crafted to tap into that experience and wisdom. 

We get together on a monthly basis in order to help each other become the greatest version of themselves in our business / work / personal lives.  We are hear to provide you with an opportunity to discuss challenges you may be facing with ideas on how we can apply Masonic principals.  There is a synergy of energy, commitment, and excitement that participants bring. We are here to help fulfill a Mason’s mission to be a seeker of knowledge, truth, and Light.

Book to read:  “The Initiatic Experience: That Led to your Initiation into Freemasonry” by Robert Herd

From Amazon.com:  “Freemasonry is an Initiatic Order teaching lessons of philosophy, morality, psychology, and spirituality. It contains elements of perennial wisdom, much of which has been handed down to it by other orders and cultures throughout the history of civilization. Many have searched, and continue to search, for a singular origin to our Fraternity. This book discusses similarities found in the Initiatic Experiences which have been practiced by people of different cultures from time immemorial. You will find that much of what our lessons teach today, was taught to initiates thousands of years before Freemasonry had even been formed, being passed from Master to Candidate. It shows that some of those Initiatic processes, methods, and lessons, which were passed down to us from ancient times, was done so by some of the most famous thinkers, philosophers, and teachers in human history. Sometimes this knowledge was lost by one civilization only to be rediscovered or rejuvenated by the next. The knowledge and lessons changed nearly as little as the methods of conveying them. It shows a lineage or pathway, so to speak, created by the sharing of knowledge and wisdom from Ancient Egypt and Greece, to Renaissance Europe and even the Middle East. It discusses how the process and impact of the Initiatic experience was used then, and is still used today, to promote and protect certain lessons and concepts throughout the ages, sometimes with deadly consequences. This book talks about some of the challenges certain Orders had in maintaining these lessons in times of social or religious turmoil such as the Knights Templar, Rosicrucians, and even the early Alchemists. For the new and old Freemason alike, this book can provide valuable insight into the meaning behind portions of the ritual, the history behind some of the traditions, and the spirit behind some of the lessons of our Fraternity. Those interested in history will find a concise, chronological order of events making study and familiarization of information quick and easy."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert Herd served as Grand Orator on the Grand Lodge of Colorado in 2012. He is the owner of Living Stones Masonic Magazine. He is a founding member of the Sanctum Sanctorum, on of the largest Masonic forums on the internet. He is a founding charter member of Enlightenment Lodge #198, a traditional observance lodge in Colorado Springs, CO.

WHERE TO GET THE BOOK

You can obtain the book on Amazon.com at a very reasonable price for used copies, some as low as $13.

This is a convivial as well as an educational gathering so please feel free to imbibe in a favorite Easter beverage, and bring a bit of nibbles to share.  Even if you choose to not read the book come join the discussion and brotherly support.

Please RSVP by sending an email to Bro. Dean Fairbanks, dhfairbanks@csuchico.edu

These are among the best discussions you’ll ever have with your Brothers!

We hope to see you there!

Working Tools Group: March 9th meeting

/

Hello Brothers,

Tomorrow the Working Tools Group meets to discuss the book we read on Prince Hall Masonry (it's OKAY if you did not read it) and to discuss how Masonry can help in our lives as a transformative power.  How can we use and see Freemasonry as a the foundation for a lifelong process of developing knowledge, seeing to improve our characters, and giving back to brothers who openly welcomed us into this transformative experience we all went through?

The answers are not fully contained within the three degrees. Come by tomorrow for a pre-St. Patricks day social gathering for both young and old Masons to share how Freemasonic ideals can help us in life: relationships, family, and work.Feel

Feel free to bring any Irish cheer to share.

6:30-8pm Lodge library

March Trestleboard--ONLY Available online!!

/

There will be no printed March Trestleboard coming to you in the mail. We just did not have enough articles to spend the money and personnel to justify printing and mailing one out. Therefore the Trestleboard is fully digital this month. Click the image below to access. See the latest news we received and with digital we were able to supply some color images from February events.  If you miss the calendar then use the updated digital one available through the lodge website and through our lodges cellphone app.

Oroville and North Butte Lodges--Come join us for Dinner!

/

Dear Brothers and Families of Oroville Lodge No. 103 and North Butte LodgeNo. 230,

As your Brothers at Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No. 111 we want to extend an invitation for you all to come dine with us tonight at 6:30pm for our dinner and stated meeting.  Many of you may be in and around the Chico area, displaced from your homes, in local shelters or with friends and family.  We want to extend our hospitality and fellowship to you all during these stressful times affecting your region.

Please RSVP with the Lodge Secretary 893-6171 or email: 111secretary@sbcglobal.net

Check our lodge's website for tonight's menu. http://www.chicofreemasons.org/lodge-news/2017/2/8/st-valentines-dinner-and-stated-meeting

In Fellowship,

Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No. 111

 

 

Black History Month: Prince Hall Masonry (1784- )

/
africanlodge459.gif

The Prince Hall Masons are the oldest and largest group of Masons of African origin in the world.  Today there are forty Grand Lodges of Prince Hall Freemasonry in the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, and Liberia.  These Grand Lodges preside over more than 5,000 lodges.  All of them claim descent from the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts which is traced back to the African Lodge No. 459.

Prince Hall, a native of Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies, was freeborn on September 12, 1748, the son of Thomas Prince Hall, an Englishman, and his mother, a free colored woman of French heritage.  In 1765, at the age of 17, Hall worked for his passage on a ship to Boston where he became a leatherworker.  Eight years later he had acquired property and was eligible to vote.

On March 6, 1775, Hall, now a minister with a Methodist Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts, joined fourteen other free blacks of Boston who all became Masons at British Army Lodge, No. 58, then attached to one of General Thomas Gage's regiments stationed in Boston.  Hall and the other newly initiated Masons were granted the authority to meet as a separate lodge, to march in parades, and to bury their dead.  They were not granted permission to confer degrees or perform any other Masonic work.  

Nine years later on March 2, 1784, Hall petitioned the Grand Lodge of England, asking for a warrant for a Charter that they had been denied by the white Masons of Massachusetts. The warrant was approved and Hall established the first lodge of African American Masons in North America known as African Lodge No. 459.  

Although the status of the African American Masons improved, they were not considered a “full” Masonic lodge until 1787 when Prince Hall received a charter from the Grand Lodge of England, the mother of all Freemasonry. In 1787, African Lodge No. 459 became African Lodge No. 1 with Prince Hall as its leader.  Also these Masons were now independent of the United Grand Lodge of England.  They created separate jurisdictions comprised of mostly African American members. In 1791, the Prince Hall Grand Lodge was founded to govern the three then existing black Masonic lodges with Prince Hall as its first Grand Master, a position he held until his death in December 1807.  Black Freemasonry evolved from the establishment of this Grand Lodge.   

Due to prevalent racism and segregation in North America, it was impossible for African Americans to join most mainstream Masonic lodges until the late 20th century.  Yet, because Prince Hall Mason lodges were African American, North American Grand Lodges denounced Prince Hall Lodges and Prince Hall Masons, deeming them illegitimate and refusing to recognize their authority.  Until 1865 most Prince Hall lodges were in the North but after the Civil War, black Masonry quickly spread across the South, often led by Northern-born Masons who became active in Reconstruction politics.

During the years of Reconstruction and continuing to 1900, Prince Hall Masonry remained a highly prestigious but small fraternity. By the early 20th century the membership rapidly expanded, lessening its exclusivity. Although all Masonic Lodges today racially integrated, Prince Hall Masons remains a separate but recognized branch of Freemasonry including tens of thousands of black and some non-black members throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, and Liberia.  

Sources:
William H. Grimshaw, Official History of Freemasonry (New York: Negro Universities Press, 1969); William A. Muraskin, Middle Class Blacks in a White Society: Prince Hall Freemasonry in America (London: University of California Press, 1975); Prince Hall Freemasonry by Bro. George Draffen, Deputy Master, Grand Lodge of Scotland, http://fosterglenn.tripod.com/prince_hall_freemasonry.htm.
http://www.blackpast.org/aaw/prince-hall-masons-1784

UPDATE The Working Tools Group - DATE CHANGE!

/

Let’s discuss Masonry and issues in our lives that Masonry can help provide guidance, and if you feel inspired Read a Book to share as well.

When: Thursday, March 9th at 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Where: Lodge Library

What is the Working Tools Group?

Many of us were drawn to Freemasonry out of a strong yearning to seek a truth hidden in the ancient wisdom, which has been handed down to us through the teachings of several mystical and philosophical traditions.  Indeed, one could argue that this is the primary purpose of our Craft.  Part of the mission of the Masonry is to take good men and make them better.  Our lodge has brothers with an abundance of experience, expertise and wisdom.  This group is crafted to tap into that experience and wisdom. 

We get together on a bi-monthly basis in order to help each other become the greatest version of themselves in our business / work / personal lives.  We are hear to provide you with an opportunity to discuss challenges you may be facing with ideas on how we can apply Masonic principals.  There is a synergy of energy, commitment, and excitement that participants bring. We are here to help fulfill a Mason’s mission to be a seeker of knowledge, truth, and Light.

Book to read:  “Prince Hall Freemasonry: The Secret Within” by Warrior Hawk

From Amazon.com:  “An aura of mystery surrounds the Masonic tradition Prince Hall founded. Part of this aura comes from the false perception, held even by many fellow Masons, that Prince Hall Freemasonry is different from "normal" Masonry, with special rites and ceremonies and a different set of core beliefs than those held by other Freemasons. Although Hall is widely recognized as the father of Black Masonry in the US, few records pertaining to his life have been found. The book not only reveals the history of PH Masonry but is a comprehensive guide and teaching tool for Masonic schools-offering a fascinating look into an organization often perceived as taboo to outsiders.”

WHERE TO GET THE BOOK

You can obtain the book on Amazon.com at a very reasonable price for used copies, some as low as $~$11.

This is a convivial as well as an educational gathering so please feel free to imbibe in a favorite St. Patrick’s Day beverage, and bring a bit of nibbles to share.  Even if you choose to not read the book come join the discussion and brotherly support.

Please RSVP by sending an email to Bro. Dean Fairbanks, dhfairbanks@csuchico.edu

These are among the best discussions you’ll ever have with your Brothers!

We hope to see you there!

 

Golden Veterans Award: Bro. Melvin Eugene Ike

/

Come Celebrate 50 Years of Masonry

Come join with us in celebrating

Brother Melvin Ike

Who has spent the last 50 years tirelessly working within the craft to better himself and spread the light

Tuesday, February 14th

Dinner 6:30pm - Stated Meeting & Ceremony begins at 7:30pm

Please RSVP for dinner with the lodge secretary 111secretary@sbcglobal.net or 530-893-3171

It's that time of year again...Please Pay Your Dues

/

Please note that the dues for 2017 are $143 if paying by cash or check. Our dues are equivalent to $11.92 a month to support your lodge and the lodges obligations to support the work and charities of the Grand Lodge of California. At ~$12 dollars a month that is the equivalent of skipping three large Starbucks coffees per month or not going out to lunch one day a month. For all the work YOUR lodge and Grand lodge does, its worth it!

If you have dues in arrears from the previous year, please contact the lodge secretary to arrange for payment.

You can also pay online HERE, but their will be a transaction fee.

2017 Lodge Officers Installed

/

Please welcome Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No.111's 2017 officers:

  • Angelo Volpato, Worshipful Master
  • Larry Willis, Senior Warden
  • Bob Swithenbank, Junior Warden
  • Ryan Hyland, Treasurer
  • Darrel Hunter, Secretary
  • Ray Dunham, Chaplin
  • Chris Burchfield, Senior Deacon
  • Fritz Zanker, Junior Steward
  • Michael Johnson, Tiler

We wish them well on their year of labor for our lodge.  Let's all be supportive to them as they take on the valuable tasks that make this lodge run so smoothly.

Officers Installation Team with WM Angelo Volpato.

Officers Installation Team with WM Angelo Volpato.

Happy Masonic New Year: 300 years and counting...

/

To all our Brothers at Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No. 111 and brother and sister members of concordant and appendent bodies we wish you all good tidings for the new year.  We are looking forward to a productive year at our lodge and we hope to hear from members about what inspires them to be Freemasons.  What do YOU want to do in lodge? Light that fire from within and come inspired to dine and socialize at a dinner or speak out and contribute at a stated meeting.  Remember there are ONLY 12 nights out of 365 days to come be with YOUR brothers and socialize at Lodge.  Today is the first chapter of those 365 pages, how will you write your life book this year?

This year also marks the 300th anniversary of "official" Freemasonry in the world. On St. John the Baptist Day in June of 1717 the United Grand Lodge of England was formed. What a journey it has been. Let's celebrate all that Freemasonry has done in this country and around the world.

Holiday Greetings: Solstice and St. John The Evangelist

/

Winter is said to be represented by the Saint John the Evangelist, whose feast day falls on December 27th.  He is the other John of the lodge, in summer we celebrate St. John the Baptist, while at the equinoxes we are back within the center of our circumscribed circle.  John the Evangelist is also called the Apostle of Charity, which may be in part, his connection to Freemasonry in addition to his unwavering resolve and purity of his love of the divine.

St. John the Evangelist represents coming from darkness to light, an awakening, and if you take it further, the dawning of awareness.  This awareness sits squarely with the idea of Sol Invictus, or the conquering sun which overcomes its captivity of night from the summer solstice and again begins to vanquish the night in its ever increasing minutes of daylight.

Looking at some of the other symbolic connections, the Evangelist is said to relate to the alchemical symbol of the up pointed triangle which represents fire, where again we can see a link to light and knowledge.  When we combine the alchemical sign of St. John the Baptist with that of the Evangelist, we create the star of solomon, and the duality of fire and water, further, the duality of light and dark and summer and winter.

Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No. 111 wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season. May you all find the light during the season of St. John the Evangelist.

 

Reference credit

http://freemasoninformation.com/2009/12/christmas-and-freemasonry/

Happy Thanksgiving from your Lodge

/

All of us at Chico-Leland Stanford Lodge No. 111 would like to offer you a happy and hearty Thanksgiving. Here are some wonderful Thanksgiving Blessings:

A Thanksgiving Prayer

Oh, Lord, now this we’re thankful for:
The good things life has held in store;
The love of those within our home,
And friends to greet wherever we roam;
The health and strength wherewith to toil,
The bounteous food from freedom’s soil;
We thank Thee for the right to pray
And worship Thee in our own way;
To live within a land that’s free;
For this, dear Lord, our thanks to Thee;
And through these blessings, one by one,
May Thy will, Lord, on earth be done!

fromArthur R. Herrmann at the Masonic Poets Society.

And of course General and Bro. George Washington proclaimed the first Thanksgiving Day proclamation:

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.
– George Washington’s 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation

And finally some short pointed ones:

The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings.
– Eric Hoffer, Reflections On The Human Condition

Thanks are justly due for boons unbought.
– Ovid

Find the good and praise it.
– Alex Haley

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes of which all men have some.
– Charles Dickens

Happy Thanksgiving to you all may you find comfort in your family and friends at this time.

Sources these quotes were borrowed from: www.freemasoninformation.com

 

Masonic Book Club: A Read for the Depths of Winter

/

When: Thursday, December 15th at 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Where: Lodge Library

At this meeting, we will be discussing the book "Masonic Enlightenment: The Philosophy, History, and Wisdom of Freemasonry" Edited by Bro. Michael Poll. This book's discussion will be open to Master Masons.

From Amazon.com:

Poll has pulled together a variety of essays from past generations and presented them for the enlightenment of Masons today. These are time-tested thoughts and ideas which older members may have encountered decades ago but which newer members may have never seen. Regardless of your Masonic age, you'll find this small book a delight to read.  This book is one of the MOST popular Masonic books in print.  A Masonic education from the first page to last. This collection of classic Masonic papers brings back to life some of the giants in Masonic literature. A sample of the reading selections include:

  •  "The Meaning of Initiation" by Frank C. Higgins;
  • "Masonic Jurisprudence" by Roscoe Pound;
  • "Freemasons in the American Revolution" by Charles S. Lobingier;
  • "Women and Freemasonry" by Dudley Wright;
  • "In the Interests of the Brethren" by Rudyard Kipling;
  • "The Egyptian Influence on Our Masonic Ceremonial and Ritual" by Thomas Ross;
  •  "The Spiritual Significance of Freemasonry" by Silas H. Shepherd;
  • "Rosicrucianism in Freemasonry" by H.V.B. Voorhis; 
  • "Masonry and World Peace" by Joseph Fort Newton

About the Author

Michael R. Poll (1954 - present) is the owner of Cornerstone Book Publishers. He is a Fellow and Past President of The Masonic Society, a Fellow of the Philalethes Society, a Fellow of the Maine Lodge of Research and a Full Member of the Texas Lodge of Research.  A New York Times Bestselling writer and publisher, he is a prolific writer, editor and publisher of Masonic and esoteric books. As time permits, he travels and speaks on the history of Freemasonry, with a particular focus on the early history of the Scottish Rite.

WHERE TO GET THE BOOK

You can obtain the book on Amazon.com in both paper and electronic format at a very reasonable price for used copies, some as low as $9.95. Also check our www.abebooks.com for great used deals as well.

Prior to the meeting, we will be emailing the author to provide us guiding questions to encourage thought and foster discussion.  This is a convivial as well as an educational gathering so please feel free to imbibe in a favorite yuletide beverage, if you like, and bring a bit of Christmas nibbles.  Even if you choose to not read the book come join the discussion and brotherly support.

Please RSVP by sending an email to Bro. Steve Catterral, oldegold@hotmail.com or Bro. Dean Fairbanks, dhfairbanks@csuchico.edu

We hope to see you there!