Friendship’s final Master Mason Degree of 2019 was conferred on none other than our dear Brother Matt Goosen
Left to right: WB Chase, WB Schuman, Bro. Goosen, WB Neal
Three Masters in this degree; each taking their time and opportunity to perform their work with precision and impress the powerful lessons of the Master Mason Degree upon Bro. Goosen.
Worshipful Brother Chase opened and closed the Lodge, but gave WB Schuman the privilege of conferring the degree (one of his favorite and most-powerfully performed parts of the Masonic ritual). WB Chase was joined by the Senior and Junior Wardens to perform the work of ruffians.
We also got to see some of our newer brothers refine their work in other roles, with Bros. Haase and Miller-Conley sitting as the Senior and Junior Deacons, respectively, for the duration of the night.
Brother Goosen had the distinct privilege of the participation of two luminaries of Oregon Masonry. Worshipful Brothers Ryan Neal (Washington Lodge No. 52) and Dale Palileo (Secretary of Kenton Lodge No. 145 and Honorary Past Master of Friendship Masonic Lodge No. 160.)
These hard-working brothers exemplified King Solomon and delivered the Master Mason Degree lecture, respectively. And each brought their own style and tone to the work – amplifying the power and grandeur of this work for everyone. And in the process, had unknowingly, achieved the Master’s Challenge. As the final point of business for the night, WB Chase called the Senior Deacon to present these excellent brothers in the West. He then descended from the East to meet them on the level and give them their prize.
Taking this time to express his gratitude, thanking WBros. Palileo and Neal, hugs and handshakes were exchanged before explaining the challenge to them and presenting each with their own Friendship Lodge Challenge Coin.
The meeting concluded with WB Lee delivering a stirring Closing Charge, after which we retired to the dining hall to enjoy some refreshments and toast the newest Master Mason. Everyone offered up their distinct sentiments of happiness, pride, and encouragement; with the Worshipful Master speaking last, but most movingly.
Everyone, electrified by the night, just couldn’t seem to peel away and after resetting and closing up the lodge retired to a favorite North Portland watering hole to enjoy just a few more moments together before having to part and prepare for the sunrise.
