SENTINEL
M. · .W. ·
14. Bro. William O. Wagstaff III Compiled By R.W. Robert B. Hansley 20. Cyros Bustill P.G.M. Ludwick S. Hall (47) 24. What a Worshipful Master should know R.W. Gary “Butta” Davis (55) 30. History of The Order of Cyrenes P.G.M. Ludwick S. Hall (47) 41. Past Matron Wilhelmine Herard James Schneps Media, Impact Award 50. Morden P.H. History Project R.W. Kevin Wardally (14) 64. Why I attend Lodge Meetings P.M. Matthew Wagstaff (36)
2. Editorial
43. Master Lodge # 99
R.˙. W.˙. Robert B. Hansley (93)
Annual Awards Banquet 44. R.W. Nigel J. Cudjoe (38) ITSMF 45. Adelphic Union Lodge # 14 Pictorial 46. St. James Lodge #16 Pictorial 47. Prince Hall Sportsmen Club R.˙. W.˙. Donald Washington (69) 49. HBCU Night @ Madison Square Garden Pictorial 52. Silver Queen Chapter # 43 Pictorial 54. Meridian Lodge # 93 Pictorial 56. Meridian Chapter # 67 Pictorial 61. Hebron Lodge # 48 Pictorial 63. Eureka Lodge # 36 Pictorial 68. Occasional Grand Lodge Pictorial 69. Scholarship Comedy Show Pictorial 71. Eureka Grand Chapter Testimonial Luncheon
3. Grand Master’s Message M.˙. W.˙. Gregory R. Smith (1) 4. Grand Cabinet 5. 177 th Vincent E. Best Mid-Year Assembly Pictorial 9. Black History 59 th Annual Selma Bridge Crossing Pictorial 10. Knights of Pythagoras P.M. John Hudson Jr. (63) 13. Caucus Weekend Pictorial 16. Northeast Region Conference Pictorial 18. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration First Masonic District 22. Trailblazer Honoree Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 35. Global Top 50 Innovators Honoree Public Sector Network 37. Inaugural Black Men Empowerment Summit R.W. Oswaldo Mestre Jr. (88) 38. Joppa Lodge # 55 R.W. Gary “Butta” Davis
The Prince Hall Sentinel is the official publication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of the state of New York. However, all articles appearing in this publication express the view and opinion of the author or interviewee, and do not, unless specially stated, express the views and opinions or become official pronouncements of the Grand Master or Grand Lodge. All rights reserved.
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THE PRINCE HALL SENTINEL Official Publication of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F&AM, State of New York
Elected Grand Lodge Officers
M.˙. W.˙. Gregory R. Smith Jr. (1) Grand Master
From The Editor’s Desk
I would like to start by reflecting on two words “unity” and “diversity” within the Craft. At first glance, these seem like simple enough ideas: “Unity” refers to oneness, of being formed of parts that make a whole - essentially around a consensus of shared values as they relate to the principles of Freemasonry.
R.˙. W.˙. Darren M. Morton (64) Deputy Grand Master R.˙. W.˙. Jean E. Apollon Sr. (63) Grand Senior Warden R.˙. W.˙. Kevin P. Wardally (14) Grand Junior Warden
R.˙. W.˙. Jamal Ali (38) Grand Treasurer
“Diversity” refers to variety and difference – as these relate to individual members of the various Lodges and concordant bodies of the Craft. “Unity in diversity” suggests a happy equilibrium, or harmony, between these seeming dichotomies, spanning the Craft to national levels. On a close assessment, such a statement could be seen as a call for homogeneity, For example, the idea that Freemasonry is one organization of many people brought together through a shared commitment to “Masonic values.” When these ideas are looked at through the prism of social policy, and what the words may imply as representing an ideology, then we are looking at somewhat greater complexity. One area of ideology complexity I would like to address is that of the perceived divide between our members with longevity and our younger members. Many of our senior members use the phrase “Back in my day” when talking about their experiences in the Craft. Well it is true. Time leaves the legacy of history, and each age has its own social and cultural context. To our younger Brothers, a phrase like this seems to engender a feeling that “that Brother is out of touch with the realities of present day” and in many cases, just in the way. Nothing could be further from the truth. Not only do senior Brothers have a cultural potential to develop, but Just like everyone else, they need to express themselves and want to play a useful role in the further advancement of the Craft. Our senior Brothers are great information sources. They represent experience and wisdom. We will probably not agree with all of their appreciations of life but talking to an 80-year-old Brother is talking to someone who has witnessed Masonic history since 1929! Inevitably, we must all grow old; and, as we do, we must deal with the aging process each in our own way. As we mature, relationships change; friends die; and our children establish their own families. How do you feel about older Brothers? Do you respect them for their experience and knowledge, or do you think they are out of date and just in the way. How do you feel about watching your parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles growing older? Have you ever considered that with life expectancy increasing, you too will soon be regarded by younger members as that Older Brother who is always talking about “Back in my day.”
R.˙. W.˙. Sandino Sanchez (14) Grand Secretary
Grand Trustees
R.˙. W.˙. Keith B. Bryant Sr. (122) Chairman R.˙. W.˙. Oswaldo Mestre Jr. (88) R.˙. W.˙. Patrick Rosene (124) R.˙. W.˙. Jerome Morris (3) R.˙. W.˙. Jimmy Chaple (120)
R.˙. W.˙. La ’Keith Rouse (14)
R.˙. W.˙. Dayquan El-Amin (14) R.˙. W.˙. Troy Jackson (59)
R.˙. W.˙. R. Nabar Colbert (53)
Editorial Staff M .˙. W.˙. Gregory R. Smith Jr. (1) Publisher R.˙. W.˙. Robert B. Hansley (93) Editor R.˙. W.˙. Raymond N. Freeman Jr. (97) Grand Photographer
Contributors In This Issue
P.G.M. Ludwick S. Hall (47) R.˙. W.˙. Kevin P. Wardally (14) R.˙. W.˙. Gary Davis (55) P.M. Mathew Wagstaff (36) R . · .W . · . Oswaldo Mestre (88) Bro. Kevin Parker (123) Bro. William Wagstaff III (55) R. · . W. · . Donald Washington ( ) W.M. Lester Neal (93) Sis. Danielle McFarland (67)
Bro. Firan Chisolm (117) P.M. Franklin Caesar (126) W.M. Jason Callahan (92)
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M. ˙ . W. ˙ . GREGORY ROBESON SMITH JR. Grand Master
R. ˙ . W. ˙ . Kevin P. Wardally Grand Junior Warden
R. ˙ . W. ˙ . Dr. Darren M. Morton Deputy Grand Master
R. ˙ . W. ˙ . Jean E. Apollon Sr. Grand Senior Warden
R. ˙ . W. ˙ . Jamal Ali Grand Treasurer
R. ˙ . W. ˙ . Sandino Sanchez Grand Secretary
Grand Trustees
Oswaldo Mestre Jr.
Keith B. Bryant Sr. Chairman
R.˙. W.˙. Dayquan El-Amin
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Brothers,
It was a historic day attending the 59th Annual Selma Bridge Crossing. It was great to see the Grand Master of Alabama Most Worshipful Corey Hawkins, Esq. along with my Sovereign Grand Commander of the Northern Jurisdiction Dr. Melvin Bazemore along with the President of the Conference of Grand Masters Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Eugene Anderson of Indiana Conference Secretary Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Emmanuel Stanley-Maryland and the 16 Grand Masters and many Brothers and Sisters from across the U.S.
I cannot thank my New York PHAmily for traveling down with me! Much appreciated and I love you ALL!
It was a great day!
One PHAmily..
ONE Jurisdiction..
Your Brother,
MW Gregory Robeson Smith, Jr.
Grand Master
MWPHGL of New York
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Hello Brothers, I Pray for Peace , Prosperity, Love and Good Health. I am Looking for Brother's throughout the State of New York in the Prince Hall Phamily from the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th District that are willing to become a part of the Knights of Pythagoras youth Mentoring Program. Sponsored by The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York State M.W. Walter King Jr. Grand Master at Present presiding. No Man Stands so tall as when he stoops to help a boy. In 2024 Let Us get serious about the work in which we are engaged to save our son's Its a Phamily affair invest your son's, Nephew's, Cousin’s, and Neighbor's in our youth Program. Any Lodges or District's willing to Sponsor a Youth Council in your respective Communities contact us KOPNYSPHA@GMAIL.COM or Jfhudsonkop@aol.com .
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Thank you R.W. Michael Morris & the Francis F. Giles Jr Knights of Pythagoras Youth sponsored by African 459 Lodge #63 Brooklyn’s Finest For another Successful year attending Mid -year assembly 2024 as Youth AMBASSADORS of The Paul Robeson Venerable Grand Council of order of The Knights of Pythagoras of New York State MWPHGL of New York M.W. Real Gregory Robeson Smith Jr. Grand Master @ Present Presiding. Thank you M.W. sir For the surprise call and Humbling Presentation of the lifetime Achievement Award I am Honored & Humbled. Thank you
Brother Hudson S.D. NYS KOP
Thank you to the M.W. Grand Master the Honorable Gregory Robeson Smith Jr. for presenting me with 2024 Life Time Achievement Award for my Labor of Love working to save our Son's through The knight of Pythagoras youth mentoring Program under the MWPHGL of New York. Mid-year session 2024. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen R.W. E. Thomas Oliver HPGM, PGHP Charles Gilliam #47 for their Recommendations to then MW PGM Gregory Robeson Smith sr., MW PGM Dorian R. Glover Esq. MW PGM Larry Mitchell , MW PGM Walter King Jr. To present day, I cannot forget R.W. Roswell Tuzo #65 Rip state director Emeritus To my day 0ne"s who believed and still believe in the kop youth Phamily. Deputy State Director Germaine Milligan , State Recorder Mujaheed Bey, R.W. Kermit Petty ( Que The Lookout ) R.W. Michael Morris, Gene Anthony Edwards Jr Parent's club members Debra Wilson , Valerie R. Ramsey Mark Alexander Troy Walker and all Sister's & Brother's from 1st to 7th Districts Thank you KOP4LIFE Hutt! Let us Remember kop Motto: No Man Stands So Tall As When He Stoop to Help a Boy.
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Happy B'Earth day to my Logical not Biological Son He's been in my life since 8 years of Age Not only my Kop son, Masonic son But He calls me His Pop and the love I have for Him is unconditional. Happy B'Earth Day My Son! Enjoy your day Troy Walker (Raised from Boy To Man)KOP4LIFE
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Joppa Lodge # 55
BRO. WILLIAM O. WAGSTAFF III'S STEADFAST COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL JUSTICE IS THE CONSISTENT DRIVING FORCE BEHIND HIS WORK IN THE COMMUNITY AND AS AN ATTORNEY AND PRINCIPAL OF THE WAGSTAFF FIRM, P.C. Bro. Wagstaff was born and raised in Westchester County, is a Pace Law School graduate, and has an MBA from Fordham University. He is raising two great kids with his wife Christina, and he's asking for your support to make him the first Black District Attorney in Westchester County history.
Bro. Wagstaff became a lawyer because he wanted to make an impact. Just like many of you, he’s become frustrated with the lip service given to criminal justice reform and how the system doesn’t work to keep our communities safe, families intact, and rehabilitation an option. Bro. Wagstaff ’s practice concentrates on Civil Rights Litigation, Criminal Defense, and Municipal Law. He is admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, and several Federal Districts. His cases have been covered in the New York Law Journal and The New York Times and on CNN, MSNBC, and ABC, among other media outlets.
His service to his hometown and community includes Special Prosecutor for Police Disciplinary Hearings, Special Counsel to Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson- Howard and the City’s Law Department, Member of the Police Reform Commission, and Chair of Mayor Patterson- Howard’s Judicial Appointment Committee. He is also former Special Counsel to the Village of Spring Valley Board of Trustees. Bro. William Wagstaff is committed to driving police reform and accountability for bad actors, while supporting our first responders who put their lives on the line to protect us.
He created a training module and trained the Mount Vernon Police Department on the laws regarding police encounters with civilians, use of force, litigation prep and report writing, and handling civilians with disabilities or mental health concerns. He successfully represented the Hudson Valley Chapter of Black Lives Matter and its members in an illegal surveillance case against the Town of Clarkstown.
His active involvement in the legal community includes serving on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Westchester, being a member of the New York State Bar Association, Westchester County Bar Association, and the Westchester Black Bar Association. Bro. Wagstaff's commitment to his community matches his commitment to justice. He co-sponsors an annual coat drive with Collective for a Cause that collects thousands of coats and donates them to families in need. William is a member of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge State of New York, Joppa Lodge No. 55. He is a member of the African American Men of Westchester and Chair of the Mentoring Committee. William is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated and has participated in the New Rochelle-White Plains Alumni Chapter's Kappa League mentoring program.
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Civil rights attorney William O. Wagstaff III running for Westchester County District Attorney
Civil rights lawyer William O. Wagstaff III, 42, announced his candidacy for District Attorney last November. He aims to become Westchester County’s first Black DA. A community organizer with a passion for public safety, Wagstaff has a law practice that concentrates on civil rights litigation, criminal defense, and municipal law. He has handled some of the area’s highest -profile civil rights cases and lawsuits against police in various cities and counties for using excessive force, illegal police surveillance, shooting an unarmed man and the death of a Riker’s I sland detainee held in solitary confinement. “Mount Vernon is an interesting place. We’re a suburban community that has urban issues,” said Wagstaff about his hometown. “You have people who are coming from social -economic backgrounds where they have been disadvantaged in most instances, whether it’s because of educational disadvantage, the family structure, or not having the best role models to look up to [and] uplift you.” Wagstaff was brought up in Mt. Vernon as an only child in a loving home. His parents were married for 45 years. His mother was a teacher and principal, and his father a gas station chain owner. Wagstaff was heavily involved in sports and in the community as a youth but had an “unfortunate encounter” with someone he thought was a friend who forcibly extorted him for money he had borrowed. He had to work off his “debt” and ended up with a federal misdemeanor. He started law school at Pace Law while on federal house arrest . After his graduation and pursuing bar admittance, Wagstaff also earned an MBA from Fordham Business School. The judge who had sentenced him ultimately wrote his letter of recommendation and remains a close friend, he said. “I was fortunate enough that I had a family that was in a position to support me and make sure that when I was caught in the system, I did not end up thrown away,” said Wagstaff. He has since vowed to be the kind of lawyer for others that he needed in his time of exigency. Wagstaff has also served as the City of Mount Vernon’s special prosecutor for police discipline, co -sponsored an annual coat drive with Collective for a Cause in Yonkers, serves as chair of the African American Men of Westchester Mentoring Committee, is on the board of directors of the Legal Aid Society of Westchester, and is a member of the Westchester Black Bar Association. Wagstaff firmly believes in a data-driven approach to the role of DA. He plans to use data to reduce crime, improve quality of life, promote restorative justice, address racial disparities, provide fair plea bargaining, charge with restraint, and eradicate hate crimes. Because of his experiences, he wants to give young people a second chance at redemption, career opportunities, and development with supplemental punishments as opposed to harsh sentencing. “There needs to be an additional investment in reaching into the community and supporting the young people,” said Wagstaff. Currently, he lives in Westchester with his expecting wife and two kids and is hitting the campaign trail hard. The DA race has, as of this Tuesday, a total of five candidates who are running to replace current Westchester County DA Miriam Rocah. The primary will be held on June 25, 2024.
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Today, we celebrate The Dr. Reverend Martin Luther King Jr Day and what would have been his 95th Birthday. Let's take a moment to reflect on his leadership and how we can work towards equality for everyone. This day is not just a day off, but a day of self-reflection on our lives. As leaders, let's follow Dr. King's example and be agents of change, not just when it's convenient. Let's embrace this day as an opportunity to become transformational leaders. ONE PHAmily.. ONE Jurisdiction.. Your Brother Always, MW Gregory Robeson Smith, Jr. Grand Master MWPHGL of New York
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THE CANDIDATE POEM by R. W. Bro. Alan Heath
Because you can only be a Mason, When you're a Mason in your heart; And along with his jacket seams, They had burst his dream apart. So, if you get an application, Please, call on that man at once Invite him and his family, To tour your hall and share some lunch. Answer all his questions, Let him share your pride. A Mason's work, is honest work; That's not a secret to hide. And when it’s time to present him, With the gift of a degree, Remember, genuine friendship is, The true gift of Masonry. Pick him up and take him home, Isn't he worth the trip? No candidate should come alone.
It was his dream to become a Mason Though he wasn't sure quite why. So he made an application, Then waited months for a reply. No committee came to pay a call To meet him and his wife, No invitation to Mason's Hall; Nor offer of Advice. Finally a postcard in the mail, Said "Come Monday night at six, And Bring us twenty dollars, If you want to see our tricks." He made the solitary journey, And entered by the door, But not one hand was offered, As he slowly crossed the floor. They fed him beans and hot dogs, And a piece of apple pie, Then led him to a little room, With no explanations why. The work was done with care and skill, No one could argue that. But, the candidate was forgotten, As they patted themselves on the back. He came to the lodge hall two more times, And was raised to the third degree, That was the last they saw him. What could the trouble be? They scratched their heads and wondered, As again they cried and moaned. "Our time has all been wasted ! " "We should have stayed at home." It seems to me that they've missed the point, But they need to understand. It's not just how well you do the work, It's how you treat the man.
Please, don't ignore this tip. All should rush to greet him, As he enters by your door.
Extend your hand in friendship, That's what a Mason's grip is for. And remember your obligation, As you lead him to the gate. It's up to you to guide him through, Not to hurt or humiliate. Now armed with proper instruction, Masonry's door will open wide, Thanks to you, his best example, Of what a Mason should be inside. And ... thank him sincerely for coming, Invite him back to his new home. For a Brother will not be a brother, If he feels unwelcome and alone.
“So Mote It Be”
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Cyrus Bustill Hero of the American Revolution
Compiled By Ludwick S. Hall P.G.M. (47)
The son of a Quaker lawyer Samuel Bustill and Partheniq, one of his slaves of African descent. Cyrus Bustill was born a slave in Burlington, New Jersey, on February 2, 1732. Cyrus’ father Samuel died when he (Cyrus) was 10 years old. As it was a violation of the tenets of the Quaker Religion to own slaves, after his father Samuel Bustill death in 1742, Samuel’s widow, Grace Bustill, sold Cyrus to Thomas Prior (also a Quaker) with the agreement that Prior would allow Cyrus to learn a trade to earn enough money as an apprentice baker to enable him to purchase his freedom. Although it is believed that Cyrus used his apprenticeship wages to purchase his freedom in 1774, it is also believed that to comply with the regulations of the Quaker Religion, Prior liberated Cyrus by manumission in 1769. After being freed, Cyrus married Elizabeth Morey (1746 – 1827), a woman of mixed Native American and European descent. Their children include the suffragettes Grace Douglass, and her daughter Sara Mapps Douglass, David Bowser Bustill, and Mary Bustill.. His descendants include intellectuals, abolitionists, and social activists, including singer/actor/activist Paul Robeson (a great, great grandson), and painter Robert Douglass Jr. a grandson, who was an artist who made flags for the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. Cyrus descendants also include both, M.W. Gregory R. Smith, Jr. the current Grand Master of the M.W. Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and his father, M.W. P.G.M. Gregory R. Smith Sr., who served the MWPH,Gl of the State of New York as its Grand Master from 2009 to 2012. Further, once freed, Cyrus Bustill became a landowner and a businessman, originally owning a bakery in Burlington, N.J.. This was during the period, when most States, New York Included, refused to provide education for both free and enslaved persons of African descent. So, while running his bakery, he paid a young white boy to teach him to read and write. Between December 1777 and June 1778, during the American Revolutionary War, he supplied rations, including bread to George Washington’s troops while they were stationed at Valley Forge , Pennsylvania. After the Revolutionary War, he closed his Bakery in Burlington, and moved his family to Philadelphia where he opened another Bakery.
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In Philadelphia, he became a member of the Free African Society, a mutual-aid organization founded in 1787 that assisted Free Blacks, and enslaved Africans, especially those enslaved Africans who were seeking freedom. Among the other founders and members of the Free African Society, were Absolom Jones, the first African American to be ordained a Priest in the Episcopal Church, and Richard Allen, the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Both Jones and Allen were Prince Hall Masons. Jones was the first Grand Master of the First African Independent Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania (the first Grand Lodge in the Prince Hall fraternity), and Allen was its first Grand Treasurer. As a member of the Free African Society, he (Bustill) assisted Black families including providing financial assistance for funerals and burials to widows and other family members. He also assisted sick members of the African American community, especially during the Yellow-fever epidemic in the late 18 th and early 19 th Centuries. In addition to his involvement in the community, he also became an early member of the Underground Railroad. By 1791, he was recorded as owning twelve acres in the Black settlement of Guinea town, which was located between the Abington and Cheltenham townships in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania As education was not being provided by the State of Pennsylvania and City of Philadelphia to African American Children, in 1803 after he retired, he opened a school for Black children in his home. At the time of his death in 1806, Cyrus Bustill was a leading member of the African American upper class in Philadelphia. Based on family lore, Joyce Mosley, a descendant of Bustill conducted extensive research into his contributions into, and for George Washingt on’s Army at Valley Forge during the American Revolutionary War. After extensive documentation, she was successful in verifying his contributions. She was also able to determine that his contributions had been acknowledged by Washington during his Presidency. As a consequence, she and subsequent female members of her family were granted memberships in the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution)..
Joyce Mosley’s Membership Certificate in the “Daughters of the American Revolution
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Humbled to receive the trailblazer award along with other distinguished honorees at the PSI Lambda Lambda of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. 19th Chapter Anniversary and 2nd Annual Butler B. Dowery Scholarship Gala at the Greentree Country Club. Thank you to the Brothers of Psi Lambda Lambda for your consideration and thinking of me. I accept this award for OUR PHAmily.
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District Deputy Grand Master Emeritus First Masonic District MWPHGL of the State of New York
Objective:
The objective of this document is to emphasize that it should not be construed as the Past Masters Council imposing directives on the incoming Worshipful Master regarding how to manage the lodge. Instead, it is intended to serve as a source of support and guidance. The document represents a compilation of shared experiences aimed at mentoring not only the incoming Master but also future Masters of the lodge. The emphasis is on collaborative guidance rather than authoritative instruction. Line Officer Training: As the Master of the lodge, you bear the responsibility for the training of both officers and brothers. However, this doesn't imply that you must undertake this task single-handedly. Instead, it is recommended that you establish a committee comprised of well-informed brothers. This committee's primary responsibility is to oversee the training of brothers for their present roles as well as prepare them for future positions within the lodge. By delegating this responsibility to a knowledgeable committee, you ensure a more comprehensive and effective training process for the benefit of the entire lodge. As Master of the lodge, you are responsible for training of your officers and brothers. This does not mean you must do it on your own. But you should set a committee of well-informed brothers whose responsibility is to train brothers for their current stations and places as well as future stations and places. Absence Notification: All elected and appointed officers, both for the Lodge and Club, are required to provide written notification to the Worshipful Master and Club President in the event of their absence from duty, provided health and business considerations allow for such notice. In the case of an unforeseen emergency or an immediate change in circumstances, the absent officer should promptly communicate this information. In situations where traditional phone contact cannot be established, communication through a call, text, or email is the accepted means. Furthermore, any letters of absence should be presented and read from the Secretary's (or Assistant Secretary's) desk, specifically addressing the absence of a fellow brother. This practice ensures transparency and keeps the relevant parties informed about the status of their fellow officers and brothers. Replacing an Officer: The responsibility to fill the seat of an absent Lodge Officer rests solely with the Master. This means that only the Master has the authority to step in and fulfill the duties of an officer who is temporarily unavailable. This principle may also be applicable to the President of Rough Ashlar Club No. 2 and their officers. In other words, the Master of the lodge holds a similar authority concerning the Club's leadership. This ensures a centralized and consistent approach to addressing absences within both the Lodge and the affiliated Club.
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Accounting:
The Worshipful Master, Secretary, and Treasurer are advised to establish a Grand Lodge Account, specifically designated for Per Capita fees, with exclusive signature cards. This account can be a savings account for ease of management. Regular financial reviews are crucial, so the Worshipful Master should schedule monthly meetings with the Secretary, Treasurer, Senior Warden, and Junior Warden. This ensures that all key officers are informed about the lodge's fiscal condition, helping to prevent any unexpected financial issues. The Worshipful Master is directly responsible for the collection of dues and should instruct the Secretary to address this matter at every meeting to avoid last-minute payments. Dues are expected to be paid by the first Stated Communication of each year. When a brother pays their dues for the upcoming year, the initial portion of the dues must be allocated toward the Per Capita tax account, which is presently set at $70. To streamline the process, when money is submitted to the Treasurer, the Secretary should record the amount due for the Per Capita tax account on behalf of the paying brother. This practice ensures accurate and transparent financial record-keeping. • Cause an audit of your lodge books to be done every year and chaired by your Senior Warden so he knows the state of the lodge before he goes into the seat. Accounting – Lodge Club: During the November Stated Communication, the Club President is expected to present a report before the Lodge. This report serves as a stewardship document, outlining the fundraising efforts of the club. Importantly, this presentation is for informational purposes only. No formal motion should be associated with this report during the November Stated Communication. Instead, it should be explicitly marked as "READ FOR INFORMATION ONLY." The substantive discussion and any motions related to the report will be deferred to the first Club meeting preceding the November Stated Communication where proper parliamentary procedure can be followed. Crucially, no financial disbursements to any organization should be made without the explicit consent of the brethren. It is emphasized that the Worshipful Master does not possess executive powers in this regard, underlining the importance of collective decision-making within the lodge. This approach ensures transparency and aligns with the principle of shared governance in financial matters. Death of a Brother: Upon receiving notification of a brother's passing, the three principal officers, dressed in business attire, accompanied by the Chaplain, are to promptly visit the home of the deceased brother to offer support and condolences to the family. Simultaneously, the Worshipful Master and Secretary are tasked with reviewing the deceased brother's beneficiary form and initiating the necessary transactions within both the Lodge and Grand Lodge. It is crucial that the established beneficiary information remains confidential and is not disclosed to the family until the Worshipful Master can establish contact with the appropriate beneficiary. This precautionary measure is implemented to avoid potential conflicts, considering that the deceased brother may not have designated his wife or children as beneficiaries on record. In situations where the family lacks arrangements with a mortician, funeral home, or church, the Principal Officers are obligated to assist the family in making these arrangements. Their role extends to aiding the family in identifying a reputable service consistent with the standards of Mortuary Science. If the need for a church arises, a referral should be made, aligning with the appropriate denomination of the deceased brother.
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NOTE: Importantly, the introduction of the concept of a Masonic Service should be the very last form of assistance offered by the Worshipful Master. This sequence ensures that practical arrangements are addressed before considering the ceremonial aspects of a Masonic Service, demonstrating a thoughtful and considerate approach during a difficult time. PS: Only a Master Mason can participate in a precession and cannot participate in a Masonic funeral nor are they entitled to a Masonic Funeral
Travel and Visitation: When embarking on travel to a Foreign Jurisdiction, it is crucial to adhere to certain protocols:
Notification to CCFC: Notify the Chairman Committee on Foreign Correspondence (CCFC) in writing. This serves as an official communication about your travel plans. Contact District Deputy Grand Master: Reach out to your assigned District Deputy Grand Master to inform them of your intended visit to a Foreign Jurisdiction.
NOTE: The Grand Lodge of New York is a Foreign Jurisdiction, despite being located on 23rd Street in the State of New York.
Notification of Intent To Travel: - This should always be a written notification and should contain the following information:
➢
The name of your lodge
➢ The name of the Worshipful Master that’s traveling ➢ Planned date of travel (Future dates are allowed) ➢ The name of the Lodge your visiting ➢ The name of the Worshipful Master your visiting ➢ The City and State where the lodge your visiting is located
CCFC Contact Information for New York State:
RW John J. Phillips
Mobile: (917) 940-6062
Email: jjpcalm@msn.com
By adhering to these guidelines, you ensure that the CCFC and your District Deputy Grand Master are properly informed of your travel plans, fostering transparency and adherence to Masonic procedures when visiting Lodges in Foreign Jurisdictions. A two (2) week notice is required.
Greetings and Protocol:
When traveling to a foreign jurisdiction with a District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) to visit a lodge, it is customary for the DDGM to be the one to convey greetings from the presiding Grand Master of the State of New York, unless otherwise instructed. This demonstrates proper respect for the hierarchy and protocol within Masonic traditions. When addressing the Most Worshipful Grand Master (MWGM), the correct and formal way is to use the title and full name. For instance, if the presiding Grand Master is MW Gregory R. Smith Jr., you would address him as "Most Worshipful Gregory Robeson Smith Jr., Grand Master." The same principle applies to your District Deputy Grand Master. For example, if the DDGM is RW Gary T. Davis, you would address him as "RW Gary T. Davis, District Deputy Grand Master." This form of address reflects the appropriate level of respect and acknowledgment for the individuals holding these esteemed positions within the Masonic hierarchy.
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Written Notifications:
Dispensation – Is an exemption from a rule or usual requirement
Dispensation for Initiations, Passings, or Raisings:
Initiating, passing, or raising more than five individuals necessitates obtaining a dispensation from the Grand Lodge. This requirement is outlined in Article XLI under Statutes (306) Sec. 10.
Approval for Public Communications
To change your Stated Communication meeting location, date, or time from your approved by-laws of the lodge requires a dispensation. No communications, tickets, flyers, or advertisements related to the Lodge or Club should be made public without prior review and approval from the Worshipful Master (WM). This ensures that all public-facing materials align with the values and standards of the Lodge.
Lodge/Club Flyers Approval by District Deputy Grand Master: Current Edict
Prior to presenting any lodge/club flyers to the public, approval from the District Deputy Grand Master of the lodge is required. This additional step ensures that promotional materials meet the necessary criteria and standards.
Restrictions on MWGM Name in Games of Chance:
It is explicitly stated that the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Master (MWGM) should never appear on games of chance, such as raffle tickets. This rule underscores the importance of maintaining the dignity and integrity of Masonic practices in fundraising activities. (Masonic Protocol Manual) Adherence to these regulations is crucial for upholding the principles and values of Freemasonry, ensuring that activities and communications align with established standards and contribute to the positive reputation of the Lodge.
Masonic Education:
The Worshipful Master is encouraged to share Masonic wisdom by reading a paragraph from the Grand Lodge Constitution and Statutes during each meeting and or causing it to be read. Starting with Article XX, which covers the Powers of the Worshipful Master, can provide valuable insights. This practice adds a meaningful and educational dimension to the proceedings.
Interactive Reading:
To enhance engagement, the Worshipful Master can involve the brethren by inviting any brother to read from the Constitution and Statutes. This interactive approach fosters participation and cultivates a collective understanding of Masonic principles among the members.
Responsibility for Masonic Learning:
The Worshipful Master assumes the responsibility of delivering or facilitating Masonic education during study classes. This includes actively seeking brothers within the lodge to contribute a 15-minute lecture on any Masonic topic. Additionally, efforts should be made to invite brothers from other lodges to share their knowledge, thereby enriching the Masonic education experience. These practices collectively contribute to the ongoing education and enlightenment of the lodge members. By incorporating these elements into the meetings, the Worshipful Master promotes a culture of continuous learning and reinforces the principles and teachings of Freemasonry within the lodge community.
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To ensure a lodge’s continued culture of knowledge, support, and personal growth. It is not mandatory but recommended that the Worshipful Master attend classes and/or instructions along with line officers to become educated in areas unfamiliar to him. Doing so will assist the Worshipful Master in becoming a better informed, and experienced Jr. Past Master. Thus, becoming a better custodian of the lodge. Worshipful Masters Responsibilities: That he is responsible for ordering the Jr. Past Master's Apron via the elected lodge trustees and presenting it to him if the Lodge is fiscally able to do so. Note : An apron is given on behalf of the Lodge not the Past Masters Council. He should have all sponsors attend a special meeting with their candidates or newly raised Master Masons to help establish and strengthen ties to the Lodge. A Worshipful Master should know how to listen to his Lodge and be well tempered in order to make decisions based on the greater good of the lodge and not based on his personal gain. A Worshipful Master should know how to be a good leader as witnessed in his work habits from previous committees he was a part of leading up to his Mastership. Committee Chairmanship: It is emphasized that assuming a brother will automatically retain the chairmanship of a committee from the previous year is a mistake. The Worshipful Master must always ask a brother if they are willing to serve as the chairman for a committee, and if agreed, the brother is committing to the role. Knowledge and Respect for the Craft: The Worshipful Master is expected to have a deep understanding of the craft and to demonstrate respect for its principles and traditions. He should know and understand each Station and Place of the lodge in order to apply the proper instruction for its labor.
Punctuality:
Meetings should start on time. If the Stated Communications specify 7 pm, the gavel should sound at 7 pm, respecting the time of the brethren. (To open a Master Mason lodge, you only require 3 or more) Mastery of Lodge Opening and Closing: The Worshipful Master is encouraged to master the opening and closing ritual of the Lodge, setting an example as a symbolic ruler of the craft. These guidelines collectively contribute to the effective and respected leadership of the Worshipful Master within the Masonic Lodge. Recommendations: A Worshipful Master should allow the Senior Warden to meet with his potential line officers without the Master being present in November with the permission of the Master. Closing: The provided guidelines emphasize a collaborative and supportive approach within the Masonic Lodge, particularly in the transition of leadership. This in no way should be perceived as a way to control or dictate to a Worshipful Master.
R.W. Gary T. Davis District Deputy Grand Master Emeritus
Joppa Lodge No. 55 First Masonic District M.W.P.H.G.L. of the State of NY
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A Look Back At the History of the Most Royal Prince Hall Grand Court, Order of Cyrene in the State of New York By Sir Ludwick S. Hall Honorary Past Royal Grand Chief Engineer
The Order of Cyrene is composed of members of the Order of the Temple (Knights Templar), their wives, widows, mothers, sisters, and daughters. The Order of Cyrene was first established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1884 by John Elzey, Sr., John Elezy Jr. and Isaac L.W. Holland, members of the United Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They ado pted the name “The Order of Cyrene, the organization that is today the Auxiliary to the Knights Templar ,” after Simon, the Cyrenian, the good Samaritan who assisted our Savior Jesus Christ, bear His Cross from Jerusalem to Golgotha. The first Court of the Order of Cyrene, St. James Royal Court was established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1884. 1 Between 1884 and 1888, with the assistance of the members of St. James Royal Court, four additional Cyrene Courts, St. Mary’s Royal C ourt in Chester, Pennsylvania, Mount Calvary Royal Court No. 3 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, St. Albion Royal Court No. 4 in Wilmington, Delaware and Magdalene Royal Court No. 5 in Baltimore, Maryland, were established. With the minimum number of Courts existing in the Jurisdiction, a governing body for the Order of Cyrene, known as the Supreme Grand Court Order of Cyrene of the United States was subsequently organized. Its first principal officers were: Royal Lady, Harriett A. Blake, the Supreme Grand Commandress, Sir Issac Holland, Supreme Grand Commander in Chief, Royal Lady, T. Cooper, Right Royal Deputy Grand Commandress and Royal Lady, Mary Grass, Right Royal Magdalene. 1 When the Order of Cyrene was first organized, the Royal Grand Commandress was known as; ‘The Supreme Grand Commandress and the Royal Grand Chief Engineer was known as: Supreme Grand Comma nder in Chief.” By the year 1896, there had been an accelerated expa nsion of the Grand Court, with additional Courts established in the following cities: Simon Royal Court No. 6 in Media, Pennsylvania, Ivanhoe Royal Court No. 7 in New York City, Lewis Hayden Royal Court No. 8 in Boston, Massachusetts, Cyrene Royal Court No. 9 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jerusalem Royal Court No. 10 in Westchester, Pennsylvania, St. Johns Royal Court No. 11, in Providence, Rhode Island, Simon Royal Court No. 12, in Reading, Pennsylvania and St. Paul’s Royal Court No. 13, in Wheeling, West V irginia. 1 . In 1877, Ivanhoe Commandery No. 5 was warranted as a subordinate Commandery of the M.E. Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of the Jurisdiction of New York. 1 In 1881 at 114 West 54 th Street in New York City, the Wives Widows, Mothers, Sisters, and Daughters of the Knights of Ivanhoe Commandery organized themselves into a unit which they called the Helping Hand Society, to assist the members of the Commandery with its programs and social activities. Known as Helping Hand Auxiliary No. 1, Sister Nanny Jones was elected its Presiding Officer and Sir Knight James McCadden its Chief Advisor. Being aware of the existence of the Supreme Grand Court Order of Cyrene for the United States of America, in Philadelphia, the members of Helping Hand Auxiliary in New York petitioned and affiliated with the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene for the United States of America, and it was warranted as Ivanhoe Royal Court No. 7. Ivanhoe Royal Court was the first Cyrene Court established in the State of New York In 1885, the wives, widows, sisters mothers and daughters of the members of Gethsemane Commandery No. 3 in Brooklyn New York organized themselves into Helping Hand Auxiliary No. 2, 1 their first Chief Advisor was George William Augustus Murray. Sir Knight Murray, a member of Paul
Drayton Commandery No. 2, served as the Chief Advisor of Helping Hand Auxiliary No. 2 until his death on July 30, 1905. 1 In 1904 the United Grand Commandery of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania accepted the Order of Cyrenes as its Auxiliary. 1
In 1914 through the efforts of Sisters, Margaret Goosley, Sylvia Carter, S. Van Pelt and Mary E. Green, and Sir Knight, Thomas H. Wright, the members of Helping Hand Auxiliary No. 2 in Brooklyn were given the Cyrene Degrees by the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the United States of America, and was established as Nazarene Royal Court. Anna Rudolph was elected to serve as its Royal Commandress. Pursuant to the establishment of the new Court, Royal Lady Bettie E. DeToscano and Sir, Engineer, James McCadden were designated Deputies for the State of New York by the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene for the United States of America. 1 Also in 1914 Royal Lady, DeToscano, with the assistance of Royal Lady, Margaret Goosely of Brooklyn, and Royal Lady, Mary Nathan of Manhattan, all members of Ivanhoe Royal Court No. 7, obtained permission from M.E., Sir Henry Spencer, Grand Commander, of the M.E. Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of the State of New York, to form a Grand Court, Order of Cyrene for the State of New York. 1 Between 1914 and 1918, Royal Ladies Mary Nathan and Lena Lee formed a club of 100 Ladies in Manhattan for the purpose of forming a third Cyrene Court. The members of the club were given the Cyrene degrees in an Occasional Grand Court and designated as Bethany Royal Court No. 6 of the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the United States of America. In 1918 at the Annual Grand Session of the Supreme Grand Court of America,
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Royal Lady, Betty E. DeToscano a member of Ivanhoe Royal Court No. 7 was named an Honorary Past Royal Grand Commandress of the Supreme Grand Court, Oder of Cyrene of the United States of America for the work she did in organizing the Cyrene Courts in the State of New York. 1 On October 31, 1918 the three Cyrene Courts in the State of New York surrendered their warrants and with the assistance of the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the United States of America in Pennsylvania, with its Most Royal Grand Commandress, Elizabeth Banks and Most Royal Grand Chief Engineer, John W. Elzy presiding, and assisted by Royal Lady, Anna E. Robinson, the Right Royal Grand Secretary, constituted and established the Most Royal Grand Court, Order of Cyrene for the State of New York. 1
R.L., Bettie E. DeToscano
Sir Eng., James McCadden
The First Most Royal Grand Commandress
The First Most Royal Grand Chief Engineer
Royal Lady, Bettie E. DeToscano was elected the Most Royal Grand Commandress, Sir Engineer, James McCadden was elected the Most Royal Grand Chief Engineer
R.L. Eva A. Green Right Royal Grand Secretary
and Royal Lady, Eva A. Greene was elected the Right Royal Grand Secretary of the new Grand Court. 1 With the establishment of the Most Royal Grand Court; Ivanhoe Court was renamed and listed as Helping Hand Royal Court No.1. Nazarene Royal Court, and Bethany Royal Court were listed on the Grand Court’s register as Nazarene Royal Court No. 2 and Bethany Royal Court No. 3. A fourth Court, St. Helena Royal Court No. 4 wa s established in Manhattan in 1919. 1 In October 1920 the Grand Court established, Oriental Royal Court No. 5 in Brooklyn, N.Y. 1 In 1922 the first Cyrene Court established by the Most Royal Prince Hall Grand Court outside of the State of New York, was Rose of Sharon Royal Court No. 6, in Newark, New Jersey. 1 In 1923 Mount Calvary Royal Court in Boston, Massachusetts, one of the charter Cyrene Courts of the Supreme Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the United States of America in Pennsylvania, surrendered its warrant to the Supreme Grand Court, and affiliated with, and was re-warranted by the Most Royal Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the State of New York. It was designated; Mount Calvary Royal Court No. 7, as a subordinate Court of the Most Royal Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the State of New York.. In 1927, during the administration of Royal Grand Commandress, Rosa P. Peyton, Mount Siba Royal Court No. 8 was established in Providence, Rhode Island. 1 In 1929, Alpha Royal Court No. 9 was established in Chicago, Illinois. 1 In May of 1944 during the administration of Most Royal Grand Commandress, Royal Lady, Genevieve L. Keizer and Sir Knight, Arthur Carter, the Most Royal Grand Chief Engineer, Miriam Royal Court No. 11 was established in Bridgeport, Connecticut. 1 Also in 1944, the Prince Hall Conference of Grand Masters submitted a request to all Prince Hall Grand Lodges, Concordant and Appendant bodies in existence at the time, to adopt the name Prince Hall and/or, the appendage P.H.A., to their Corporate name, where legally possible to commemorate the memory of the founder of the worldwide Prince Hall fraternity. 1 Accordingly, the name and title of the Most Royal Grand Court, Order of Cyrene, State of New York and Jurisdiction was changed to: “ The Most Royal Prin ce Hall Grand Court, Order of Cyrene of the State New York and
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