A lodge’s December stated meeting is usually a bittersweet moment for the current Worshipful Master. It’s the time when he lays everything on the line for one last and final meeting as the head of the lodge, where things that need to be said are said, and things that need to be done are done. It’s a time when the brethren of the lodge show their appreciation in their own way, to mark a year that has been wrought with successes; a year that has brought blessings, accolades, unforgettable moments and emotions.
Ironically, the lodge doesn’t have much in terms of business during December. Most of the important items in the lodge’s meeting agenda are either wrapped up or carried over for the next Masonic year. Items that are carried over for the next Worshipful Master are either inconsequential in nature or are required by Oregon Masonic Code to be carried over. Petitions are a prime example of this.
This was the vibe in the lodge last Thursday, December 11th when WB Valan Primus held his last meeting for the year.
Prior to the meeting, the lodge was treated to a sumptuous feast of Haitian cuisine–a perfect “last meal” bookend, given that January’s stated meeting meal was also the same Haitian cuisine that has proved to be popular with the brethren.
One highlight of the stated meeting was the reading of two petitions, namely for Mr. James Montgomery and Mr. Frank Scott. Their petitions were held over for balloting in January, when WM-Elect Mike Milford assumes the Oriental Chair.
Aside from that, and perhaps one of the most important highlights of the evening, was the presentation of WB Primus’ coin design printed and framed as a memento of his year. The gift was a personal token of appreciation from WM-Elect Milford for WB Primus’ steadfast leadership during the year–a perfect example of brotherly love and the connection forged between Master and successor.
The brethren were then treated to the usual Masonic education from WB Dale Palileo titled “The Year-long Path of the Modern Esoteric Man.” The presentation combined the previous two months’ presentation lectures into a practical framework for esoteric study and personal improvement.
And as the evening waned amidst the smoke of cigars and the sounds of laughter and lively conversations, WB Valan Primus bid his final farewell to the brethren present and closed the doors to what can be considered as one of Kenton’s most successful years.
The brothers now look forward to the installation ceremonies at the Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel on the 20th where Masonic dignitaries, special guests and loved ones will be in attendance to celebrate the lodge’s next chapter.
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