How do you make a degree worthy of someone who has not only embraced the Kenton culture, but has done so with infectious enthusiasm and purpose?
You pull off an Entered Apprentice Degree in true Kenton style, that’s how.
Last night, the brethren of Kenton conferred the Entered Apprentice Degree on Mr. Kevin Johnson in a fashion that can only be described as trademark Kenton—with soaring, dramatic musical flourishes, superb ritual, masterful floor work, and pacing that matched the grandeur of the room and the spirit of the night.
Brother Johnson’s degree also saw a handful of “firsts” for some of the lodge’s active brethren. WB Dale Palileo and RWB Blake Presswood worked together as Stewards for the first time, delivering a powerful example of the stewards’ work that was marked by precise choreography and commanding projection. WB Zack Andrew took the Western Chair for the first time, performing with confidence and poise. Honorable Brother Senior Deacon Nick Aranda also stepped into a new role, covering the Southern Chair for the first time with grace and attentiveness. And perhaps most notably, honorable Brother Derek Shaw debuted his rendition of the Entered Apprentice Lecture—an effort that was not only commendable, but warmly received by all in attendance.
Following the degree, several visiting brothers were introduced by the Senior Deacon, including:
- Brother Todd Lewis, Senior Warden of Sandy Lodge No. 158
- WB Jeremiah Pruitt, Worshipful Master of Vista Masonic Lodge No. 215
- Brother Neilly Cooper, Senior Deacon of Vista Masonic Lodge No. 215
- Brother Joshua Revert, Librarian of Washington Lodge no. 46
In what has become a new Kenton tradition, Brother Johnson was presented with a Masonic dagger—the very one used during his degree. The presentation was made by honorable Brother Senior Warden Mike Milford, sealing the night with a symbolic gesture that perfectly captured the personal nature of the evening.
Brother Johnson’s degree was long-awaited—not just by the lodge, but by many others who have been fortunate enough to meet him. His enthusiasm for the Craft and his journey into Masonry has already left an impression on brethren both within and outside of Kenton. His presence has become a quiet yet powerful force of inspiration, touching visiting brothers in a way that is rare even for a lodge as active as Kenton.
As the lodge looks ahead, two events remain on the calendar before the journey to Lincoln City for the Grand Lodge Annual Communication in June: a celebration for WB Valan Primus’ birthday, and a bowling night scheduled for the final Thursday of the month.
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