vol. x, issue 1 · justice, and is a master in the ameri-can inn of court in san antonio. he was...

Vol. X, Issue 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF TEXAS, A.F. & A.M.

www.gltexas.org

Most Worshipful David B. Dibrell, Grand Master of Masons in Texas

Winter 2001 Vol. X, No. 1

The official publication of the Grand Lodge of Texas, Ancient Free & Accepted MasonsThe Oldest Continuous Institution Chartered by the Republic of Texas

In this issue ...

The Texas Mason is an official publication of the Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M. Published quarterly for members of Texas Lodges and subscribers.Opinions expressed by the editor or individual writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect official positions of the Grand Lodge of Texas.Copyright 2001 by the Trustees of the Grand Lodge of Texas, all rights reserved.PUBLISHER: Trustees of the Grand Lodge of Texas. EDITOR: James G. “Jim” Dougherty, P.M. Parsons Lodge No. 222. E-mail: [email protected] Texas Mason encourages submission of items and photographs of general interest, reserving the right to edit and use only as needs and policiesdictate. Computer documents must be in PC-compatible format. Materials should be sent to the editor, P.O. Box 607, Waco, Texas 76703. All materialsbecome the property of the magazine and cannot be returned.SUBSCRIPTIONS: $6.00 per year in U.S. and Canada, $15.00 for three years; $10.00 per year in foreign countries, $25.00 for three years.PERMISSION TO REPRINT: Permission to reprint original articles appearing in the Texas Mason is granted all recognized Masonic publications withcredit to the author and/or the Texas Mason magazine.

From the Grand MasterWe begin ... Page 3

Grand Lodge Officers for 2001 Pages 4 - 5

“Take Time to Read” ... it’s about time Page 6

Right Worshipful Robert L. “Bob” Dillard, 1913 - 2000 Page 7

The 165th Grand Annual Communication Pages 8 - 9

Grand Master’s Proclamations Page 10

Texas Masonic Historical Pilgrimages Page 11

Around the State - Texas Masonry in Action Pages 12 -13

From the Grand Secretary ...Legislative actions of the 165th Grand Communication Page 14

R.W. Jim Voelkle, 2000 DistrictDeputy Grand Master of District30D, plays Santa to Texas Ma-sonic Home and School student,“JR”, during Grand Annual Com-munication in December. MH&Sstudents were presented with acustom made afghan designedby 2000 First Lady Fay Burke.

Portrait by Roger Bell, courtesy TSRCH

Most Worshipful David B. DibrellGrand Master of Masons in Texas

David B. Dibrell, Grand Master of Masons in Texas

We Begin ...Most Gracious Heavenly Father, author of light and life, we askyour blessings on this journey about to begin. Grant us wisdomand strength. May peace and harmony prevail and may we alllive by the Masonic teachings of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.Bless our gentle fraternity with universal benevolence, fair-deal-ing and tolerance of one another. Give each Mason an expandingheart and a wish for peace and harmony.

Thank you, my Brothers for allowing me to serve in this highoffice. I never supposed that the purple of our fraternity wouldrest upon my shoulders. Today we usher in a new Masonic year,a “New Beginning,” and for each of us, a renewal of purpose andcommitment to Masonic principles. The year 2001 is the unfold-ing of a prosperous new millennium. We have new programs andgoals worthy of our dedicated effort. We have faithful membersever ready to give of their time and talents for the betterment ofour lodges, our churches and our communities.

I’m excited about Masonry. I am excited about the possibili-ties that our fraternity has to offer. The possibilities of takinggood men and making them better. The possibilities for makinga difference in our neighborhoods, in our communities and inour world. Solomon told us in Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatsoeverthy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might.” I’m excited aboutthe possibilities of Masonry in action, of doing and of workingtogether with all our “might.”

It is my goal that we focus this year on the lofty principles ofLiberty, Equality and Fraternity. Let us think a moment in thesethree things.

First, Liberty. We acknowledge the history of ourpast, the sacrifices of those outstanding leaders whobrought us to this place today. Masons were amongthose who fought to preserve our freedoms and our lib-erties as a nation. Masons were among those who foughtat the battles at the Alamo, Goliad and San Jacinto toform the Republic of Texas, which became our greatState of Texas. Masonic heroes helped ensure the heri-tage that we are privileged to honor today, the libertywe have to enjoy it and the obligation we have to pre-serve it.

Second, Equality. Equality is another of the corner-stones of Freemasonry. We, as Masons, meet to work to-gether, to work on the level, to work as a team to buildour personal lives and to make our homes, our schools,our communities and our nation a better place to live.

Finally, Fraternity. Fraternity is the ability to en-joy Freemasonry, to enjoy the possibilities of increasedfriendship, the absolute joys of working together to-ward common goals.

LIBERTY — Freedom and ObligationEQUALITY — Teamwork and CommitmentFRATERNITY — Fellowship and Devotion

Masonry is Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.Join with me as we spread the light of knowledge to

all corners of the earth; to live upon the square; to bal-ance the demands of truth, honor and justice; and tocontribute to the betterment, happiness and enlight-enment of mankind. Join with me in working toward abetter future. We are working for Progress with Dig-nity.

Thank you for all that you do and will do for Ma-sonry and for our Grand Lodge.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Harrison elected Grand Junior Warden

Michael D. NannyDeputy Grand Master

M. Boyd Patterson Jr.Grand Senior Warden

Reese L. Harrison Jr.Grand Junior Warden

Reese L. Harrison Jr. of San An-tonio was born Jan. 5, 1938. His fa-ther, Reese L. Harrison, was a 60-year member of Albert Pike Lodge No.1169. The father of his mother, RuthL. Fisher Harrison, was a member ofAlamo Lodge No. 44.

Brother Harrison married JudithKaren Scott of San Antonio on Oct.9, 1964. She has a bachelor’s degreefrom Incarnate Word University andan associates degree in paralegal stud-ies from San Antonio College. She wasa home economist and is now a legalassistant. They have two daughters:Judith Karen Scott Harrison Jr.(now Mrs. Jared Brown) and TiffanyFarrah Lynn Harrison. His daugh-ter Judith Jr. has bachelor’s andmasters degrees from Colorado StateUniversity and his daughter Tiffanyhas a bachelor’s degree from the Uni-versity of Texas at San Antonio. Hiswife and daughters are members of theOrder of Rainbow for Girls, EasternStar, Amaranth, White Shrine ofJerusalem, Daughters of the Nile, La-dies Oriental Shrine, and Daughtersof Mokanna. Both daughters are JobsDaughters and his wife is in theBeauceant. Tiffany is a Past GrandWorthy Advisor of Rainbow in Texas.

Lawyer, economist, military judge,Air Force colonel and cowboy describethe new Grand Junior Warden. Hewas graduated from Baylor University

with B.B.A. and M.S. degrees in eco-nomics. He graduated from SMU witha Juris Doctorate. He was a JudgeAdvocate in the United States AirForce, served as a military judge, wasState Judge Advocate of the Texas AirNational Guard and retired in Janu-ary 1998 in the grade of colonel withalmost 35 years of service. He andhis sister, Janice Harrison Tipton,own and operate cattle ranches inBexar, Wilson and Caldwell counties.

He is a practicing lawyer, serving eightyears as assistant U.S. Attorney forthe Department of Justice, and is aformer chief executive officer andchairman of the litigation departmentof the law firm of Oppenheimer, Blend,Harrison, & Tate, Inc. in San Antonio.He is board certified in civil trial lawby both the Texas Board of Legal Spe-cialization and the National Board ofTrial Advocacy, is a fellow of the SanAntonio and Texas Bar Foundationsand of the Roscoe Pound Institute ofJustice, and is a master in the Ameri-can Inn of Court in San Antonio.

He was Raised a Master Mason inAlbert Pike Lodge No. 169 on May 12,1959 and served as master in 1969-1970. He was awarded a life mem-bership, has an endowed member-ship, and was the Lodge’s first recipi-ent of the Golden Trowel Award. Heserved as secretary for three years andhas been the treasurer of the Lodgesince 1993. He is a dual member ofHolland Lodge No. 1 and a full mem-ber of Texas Lodge of Research. Heserved as DDGM in 1982, as GrandOrator in 1987 and on the MasonicJurisprudence Committee since 1987and was its chairman four times. Hewas president of the Masters, Wardensand Secretaries Association of the39th Masonic Districts when he was

See HARRISON, Page 11.

James D. WardGrand Secretary

Arvol WillinghamGrand Treasurer

Larry D. RavertGrand Chaplain

Allen TuellGrand Marshal

Lawrence E. TuckerGrand Senior Deacon

C.D. “Don” McCarverGrand Junior Deacon

Larry T. FairchildGrand Orator

Kenneth W. SheatsGrand Senior Steward

Elmer Murphey IIIGrand Junior Steward

Barry M. RiggsGrand Pursuivant

Michie M. BrousGrand Organist

James G. “Jim” DoughertyGrand Photographer

Harry F. Powell IIGrand Tiler

The Elected and Appointed Officersof the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge

of Texas, A.F. & A.M.

David HarrisGrand Historian

John LawsonAssistant Grand Photographer

Additional 2001 Appointments by the Grand Master

Loyd O. Addy Sr.Grand Webmaster

xperts agree that reading aloud tochildren may be one of the mostimportant steps adults can take to

prepare children for success in school. In aneffort to address the decline in the readingability of children in Texas, the MasonicGrand Lodge of Texas and Texas Scottish RiteHospital for Children established the “TakeTime to Read” program — a successful part-nership aimed at promoting the importance ofadults reading aloud to children.

Focusing on the benefits of reading aloud,the program encourages adults to take anactive role by participating in read-aloud activi-ties proven to stimulate imagination, developgood listening and critical thinking skills, aswell as to motivate children to learn to readindependently. Through hands-on programssuch as “Take Time to Read,” all adult Texansand members of the Masonic fraternity aregiven the opportunity to demonstrate theirconcern for and commitment to the future ofchildren.

Since the program’s incep-tion, David Dibrell, GrandMaster, Grand Lodge of Texas;his wife, Marlene, SupremeDeputy, Grand Assembly ofTexas, International Order of theRainbow for Girls; and the TexasMasonic lodges have played asignificant role in promoting theprogram statewide.

Texas Masons spend timereading to students in schoolsand public libraries, distribut-ing promotional materials andhosting book drives throughoutthe state in an effort to encour-age adults to read aloud tochildren. As the campaigncarries on, “Take Time to Read”continues to make a positivedifference in the lives of chil-dren across Texas.

E

“Take Time to Read” ... it’s about time

Dean of Grand Masters,Robert L. Dillard Jr. dies

Robert L. Dillard Jr.Photo courtesy: Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children

Early morning on Nov. 30,2000, Right Worshipful Robert L.Dillard Jr. laid aside the workingtools of life. His were the precisiontools of a Master Craftsman, em-ployed in many years of dedicatedservice to family, church, commu-nity and Freemasonry.

Born in 1913, the son of anindependent oilman, he began hisprofessional career in the oil fieldsof Texas. Starting from the groundup, he worked as a roustabout inthe oil fields to finance his educa-tion. He received his law degreefrom Southern Methodist Univer-sity and an LL.M from Harvard. Heserved as assistant city attorneyfor the City of Dallas from 1941 to1945. In 1945, he joinedSouthland Life Insurance Com-pany of Dallas. He retired in 1978as executive vice president to de-vote more time to community af-fairs and to his beloved fraternity.

He met and married DundeeSheeks in 1937. That union of 63years produced a loving familyconsisting of a son, two daughters,13 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

He was a lay reader in theHighland Park United MethodistChurch, where he taught an adultSunday school class for more than40 years.

He served his community inmany ways and was numberedamong an exclusive group of cityfathers responsible for one of themore important periods of growthin the history of the City of Dallas.He took pride in an outstandingrecord as president of the boardof education in the Dallas Indepen-dent School District.

Bro. Dillard’s Masonic careerbegan with his initiation in Dal-las Lodge No. 760 in 1938. Heserved as its Worshipful Masterin 1947-48. He served with dis-tinction in various Grand Lodgecommittees and was namedemeritus member of the Juris-prudence Committee. He tookpride in his years of service aspresident of the Masonic Homeand School Board of Directorsand vice-chairman of the Boardof Trustees of the Texas ScottishRite Hospital for Children.Elected Grand Master in 1962,he was senior Past Grand Mas-ter at the time of his death.

Extremely active in the Scot-tish Rite of Freemasonry, he wascoroneted 33rd Degree, Inspec-tor General Honorary, in 1953.In 1995, he became only theeighth Texas Scottish Rite Ma-son to receive the Grand Crossof Honor.

Funeral services were held inhis church officiated by severalministers including his son-in-law, the Rev. Bro. John B.Cullen III, and newly installedGrand Chaplain, the Rev. LarryD. Ravert. Following Rose Croixmemorial services at the church,Masonic graveside services wereconducted by Past Grand Mas-ter Sam E. Hilburn.

His labors ceased, a greatman has left the scene. He hasearned a rest. His voice is silentand he is out of sight. Even so,the wisdom of a man whotouched so many lives is etchedin the hearts of all who knewhim. - Excerpted from The Dal-las Scottish Rite Herald.

PGMs Gower, Burkeelected to H & Sboard of directors

Past Grand Master W.M.“Mike” Gower, of McAllen, waselected to a five-year term as Di-rector of the Texas MasonicHome and School. succeedingretiring Past Grand Master SamE. Hilburn. Outgoing GrandMaster W. Vernon Burke Jr.was elected to finish the unex-pired term left vacant by thedeath of Past Grand Master R.L. Dillard Jr.

Jackson elected toCommittee on Work

A.D. Jackson, member ofFort Stockton Lodge No. 1022,was elected to a five-year termon the Grand Lodge Committeeon Work.

Grand Lodge Elections

Grand Tiler Orville O’Neill gets a lessonin swordsmanship from James Barron,Deputy State Master Councilor ofDeMolay in Texas.

Law officer Masons have a panoramic photo taken with First Lady Fay Burke. She distrib-uted more than 3,000 of her distinctive pins to present or past members of the law enforce-ment community during Masonic Year 2000.Former State Senators Bob

Glasscock and P.G.M. JackHightower talk over old timesduring a lull at Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge 2000 Snapshots

Our Masonic Home and School kids enjoyed a mu-sical program planned especially for them, followedby a visit from Santa and his Masonic “helpers.”

Grand Master W. Vernon andFay Burke.

Grand Master W. Vernon Burke Jr. with P.G.M.Sam Hilburn and newly elected Grand JuniorWarden Reese L. Harrison Jr.

Grand Master Burke addresses a packed Grand Lodge audience.

Texas Mason photographs by Grand PhotographerJames G. “Jim” Dougherty and

Assistant Grand Photographer John Lawson

Grand Master David B. Dibrell and First Lady Marlene

(Above photo) Carl T. Williams ofRichardson presents Grand MasterDibrell with a stained glass 2001 GrandMaster’s emblem.

(Left photo) Need jewelry? TommyMcJunkins and Bill Hale have it! Theywere also recipients of the William M.Beck Award for 2000.

Grand Master Dibrell receives a min-iature lambskin apron from KristiLeos, Grand Worthy Advisor of TexasRainbow Girls. Above, left photo) Alarge contingent of Rainbows, Job’sDaughters, led by Desirie Vargas,Miss Texas Job’s Daughters and Ju-risdictional Bethel Honored Queen andDeMolays attended the installation.

(Right photo) No “chads” here! Despitepresidential election jokes, these tellershad no problems counting paper ballots.

An installation prayer by P.G.M. Bob Schnell.

DeMolays, led by State Master Councilor R.J. Morlock,provide Arch of Steel reception for the Grand Entry.

YOUTH ACTIVITIESWHEREAS, our Masonic Youth Groups, the Interna-tional Order of the Rainbow for Girls, the Order ofDeMolay and the International Order of Job’s Daugh-ters, are the foundation of Masonic growth in the fu-ture; and

WHEREAS, Masonic youth have always been an effec-tive and active part of the Masonic family; and

WHEREAS, I believe that having Lodges become moreinvolved in their youth is of primary importance for ourFraternity.

NOW, THEREFORE, I PROCLAIM AND DIRECT:

1. That every Lodge of Masons working under the juris-diction of The Grand Lodge of Texas give due consider-ation to becoming involved in or sponsoring either aRainbow Assembly or a DeMolay Chapter or a Job’sDaughters’ Bethel.

2. That every Lodge of Masons working under the juris-diction of The Grand Lodge of Texas that is not able tosponsor an Assembly or a Chapter or a Bethel give dueconsideration to becoming involved in or sponsoringeither a Rainbow Club or a DeMolay Club or a Job’sDaughters’ Club.

3. That every Lodge of Masons working under the juris-diction of The Grand Lodge of Texas not able to spon-sor an Assembly or a Chapter or a Bethel or a YouthClub give due consideration to becoming involved in orsponsoring some organization for the youth of the com-munity where the Lodge is located and that the Lodgealso support the statewide activities of the InternationalOrder of the Rainbow for Girls and the Order of DeMolayand the International Order of Job’s Daughters.

It is my wish that this proclamation NOT be read atany Stated Meeting of any Lodge in the State of Texasbut that it be posted on the Lodge Bulletin Board andon the Grand Lodge Internet Site, and further, that ev-ery Lodge make reasonable efforts to inform every mem-ber by bulletin, mail or other expedient means neces-sary of the contents of this Proclamation.

This Dispensation shall expire and be of no further forceor effect at midnight, December 7, 2001.

Given under my hand and seal this 2nd day of Decem-ber, 2000

TEXAS HISTORYWHEREAS, the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836after a war of independence with Mexico, and

WHEREAS, Masons were active in the Texas Revolu-tion and many of the leaders of the Revolution wereMasons, and

WHEREAS, I believe that Masons and the public needto be more aware of the significant effect Masons hadon the formation of the Republic of Texas.

NOW, THEREFORE, I PROCLAIM AND DIRECT:

That every Lodge of Masons working under the juris-diction of The Grand Lodge of Texas give due consider-ation to becoming involved in or participate in one ormore of the statewide celebrations of Texas MasonicHistory:

The Alamo Memorial on March 3, 2001The Goliad Memorial on March 24, 2001The San Jacinto Celebration on April 21, 2001The Masonic Oak Celebration on May 20, 2001

It is my wish that this proclamation NOT be read atany Stated Meeting of every Lodge in the State of Texasbut that it be posted on the Lodge Bulletin Board andon the Grand Lodge Internet Site, and further, that ev-ery Lodge make reasonable efforts to inform every mem-ber by bulletin, mail or other expedient means neces-sary of the contents of this Proclamation.

This Dispensation shall expire and be of no further forceor effect at midnight, December 7, 2001.

Given under my hand and seal this 2nd day of Decem-ber, 2000

David B. DibrellGrand Master of Masons in Texas

ATTEST:

James D. WardGrand SecretaryThe Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.December 2, 2000

Grand Master’s Proclamations, 2001

Senior Warden in 1968. Hewas awarded the HenryPrice Medal by the GrandLodge of Massachusetts in1982 and the PierpontEdwards Medal by theGrand Lodge of Connecticutin 1983.

He is a past presidingofficer of all four San An-tonio Scottish Rite Bodiesand was coroneted with the33o in 1979.

He is a past presiding Of-ficer of the three San Anto-nio York Rite Bodies, servedas District Deputy in bothGrand Chapter and in GrandCouncil, was awarded boththe KGC and KCT by theKnights Templar, and is aPast Prior of both TexasPriory No. 23 and TexianPriory No. 78 KYCH.

He is a Past Potentateof Alzafar Shrine Templeand a Past Monarch ofOmala Grotto. BrotherHarrison is Past Governor

Harrison, continued from Page 4

General of the York RiteSovereign College, PastSovereign Grand Masterof the Allied Masonic De-grees of the USA, PastGreat Chief of Knight Ma-sons in the USA, Past In-ternational President ofthe Cabiri InternationalPast Potentate’s Associa-tion, Past Grand Masterof DeMolay International,and Past Executive Of-ficer of DeMolay in Texas.

He has served since1986 as an IntendantGeneral for the Red Crossof Constantine in Texas,and since 1992 as ChiefAdept of Texas CollegeSRICF and is currentlyWorthy Patron of TexasChapter No. 35 EasternStar, Royal Patron ofHouston Court No. 2Amaranth and EminentPreceptor of Texas Chap-ter Order of Knights Pre-ceptor.

Worshipful Master Bill Sessums Jr. of Holland Lodge No. 1in Houston, presents the Golden Trowel Award to Sen. LloydM. Bentsen Jr.. The former United States senator from Texas,secretary of the treasury, and vice presidential candidate wasaccompanied to the ceremony by his wife, Beryl AnnBentsen. Also pictured are R.W. Emile A. Bussemey,D.D.G.M. of 30A, and Deputy Grand Master Michael D.Nanny. Holland Lodge presented the award as a courtesy toMcAllen Lodge No. 1110, where the distinguished statesmanis a 53-year member.

Texas Masonic heritageevents not to be missed

Grand Lodgeaward winners

A.W. “Archie” Scott is joined byhis wife, Edith, as he was pre-sented the Sam Houston Medalfor his years of service to the fra-ternity and his community.

Lena Ruth Harvey received theW.B. and Brendon Carrell Hu-manitarian Award, much to thedelight of husband, Past GrandMaster Leonard Harvey.

On a hot July day in1821, a young man rode achestnut mare through themurky waters of the SabineRiver and scrambled up themuddy bank on the otherside. This simple act, un-noticed by most in theworld, set in motion a chainevents which would cause

empires to crumble, dicta-tors to rise, martyrs to falland heroes to emerge. Thedestinies of four nationswere irrevocably changedand the world would wit-ness an epic struggle forLiberty, Equality and Fra-ternity. Stephen FullerAustin ... impresario andFreemason ... had arrivedin Tejas.

Each year, Texas Ma-sons celebrate four monu-mental events in Texaspast: The Battle of theAlamo, the Battle of ColetoCreek and massacre ofFannin’s command atGoliad, the triumphantBattle of San Jacinto andthe meeting of Masons inthe shade of what we nowknow as the Masonic Oak.

This year Grand Mas-ter Dibrell will lead theMasons of Texas in march-ing to an observance at theAlamo on March 3, 2001.On March 24, a represen-tation of the Grand Lodgeof Texas will be opened inGoliad, followed by the lay-ing of a wreath at the graveof Bro. Fannin and hismen. On April 21, the Ma-sons of Texas have beeninvited to join other patri-otic groups at the SanJacinto Monument nearHouston to mark TexasIndependence fromMexico. Finally, on May20, all Masons and theirfamilies are invited to Ma-sonic Oak Park in down-town Brazoria for the 53rdAnnual Masonic Oak Pil-grimage and Picnic.

Additional details areavailable on the GrandLodge website, or fromyour District DeputyGrand Master.

Around the State

Alamo Lodge Rededication SAN ANTONIO — Members ofAlamo Lodge No. 44 marked theanniversary of their charter in theAlamo, on Dec. 20, 2000. Hon-ored guest, Grand Master DavidDibrell, led nearly 100 Masonsfrom throughout the state andnation in reciting the MasterMason’s obligation in the Shrineof Texas Independence. Alsopresent were Grand Junior War-den Reese L. Harrison Jr., PastGrand Masters John E. “Jack”Kelly and Harry Cunningham,the Grand Photographer andGrand Historian David Harris.

Alamo Lodge was organizedand met for years in the LongBarracks of the Alamo beforemoving to the nearby ScottishRite Cathedral in the last cen-tury.

Grand Master David B. Dibrell pre-sents Major General RobertHalverson with the CommunityBuilder Award on behalf of Post OakIsland Lodge No. 18. The command-ing officer of Texas’ own 49th Ar-mored Division recently returned withhis men from Bosnia after a success-ful tour of duty where he was also incommand of the multinational peace-keeping force. In remarks, he pointedwith pride to the fact that only onesoldier sustained injury during thetour and this only a minor injury.

Millennium Mason at Duck CreekGARLAND — JamesDavid Michael Lathambecame Texas’ Millen-nium Master Mason at1:01 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2001in Duck Creek Lodge No.1419.

Despite ice and snow,20 Masons, includingGrand Master David B.Dibrell, gathered for foodand fellowship at 10:30p.m. on the last day of theyear. Following a toast toMasonry in the new mil-lennium, the MasterMason’s Degree was con-ferred on the Texas A&Mstudent.

Bro. Latham’s father,William Latham , andgrandfather , Lee H.Kirkwood, were also present.Bro. Kirkwood presented hisgrandson with an Endowed

Membership ... a very good in-vestment for the youngbrother’s Masonic future.

Millennimum Master Mason James Latham(center) with his father, William, and grand-father, Lee H. Kirkwood.

BLANCO - Blanco Lodge # 216 hosted its first “TakeTime to Read” recognition dinner on Dec. 19th,2000. There were 53 qualifying students and theirfamilies in attendance. After the meal, the kinder-garten and first graders were presented with a cer-tificate for those who reached the 300 minute leveland a certificate and T-shirt for those at the 500minute level. The total minutes read was 30,500which is an astounding 21 days of reading!

Kindergarten teacher Sandy Tabor was pre-sented with a plaque for having the most kids at the500 minute level. First grade teacher Lisa Rogers,wife of Junior Steward Danny Rogers, was presentedwith a certificate and bouquet of roses for helping toorganize the program and for being the liaison be-tween the school and lodge. The Masons of Blancoare looking forward to sponsoring the program nextyear! Photograph by Carissa Frishbeck.

Baylor’s Pat Neff Hall cornerstone re-leveledWACO — A time capsuleplaced in the cornerstoneof Pat Neff Hall, locatedon the campus of BaylorUniversity, in Waco,Texas, on Dec. 8, 1938was opened on Dec. 7,2000, by Grand SecretaryJames D. Ward and StanMadden, immediate PastMaster of Baylor LodgeNo. 1235. The corner-stone had been disturbedbecause of a project bythe university to restorethe building’s stone trim.The building is named inhonor of Pat Neff, formerTexas governor, BaylorUniversity president, andGrand Master of the Ma-sonic Grand Lodge ofTexas. In his address,Madden, who served bothas a representative of hisLodge and a universitystaff member, observedthat an audience of 4,000Masons and Baylor staffand students witnessedthe original cornerstoneceremony, with thenGrand Master JohnTemple Rice presiding.

When the capsulewas opened, it was dis-covered that moisturehad damaged the con-tents. Masonic items

surviving included agavel made of wood fromAnson Jones’ home, firstGrand Master of theGrand Lodge of the Re-public of Texas and theRepublic’s last president.

The Most WorshipfulGrand Lodge of Texas,A.F.& A.M, opened onDec. 8, 2000, at noon inthe Grand Lodge Templewith Grand Master DavidB. Dibrell presiding andcontinued onto theBaylor University cam-pus for the purpose of re-leveling the cornerstone.

The intact artifactswere returned to theoriginal capsule alongwith materials pertainingto Baylor University’s his-tory, the cornerstone lev-eling of 1938 and the re-leveling. Masonic memo-rabilia included a 50th

anniversary medallionfrom Baylor MasonicLodge No. 1235, the Moni-tor of the Grand Lodge ofTexas, A.F.&A.M., and aletter from the GrandLodge of Texas. Contem-porary technology wasused to reseal the capsuleto better preserve the con-tents for the future timewhen it may be reopened.

Grand Master David B. Dibrell replaces the time cap-sule in the cornerstone of Pat Neff Hall on the campusof Baylor University. Past Grand Master Joseph Regian(left) assisted in the leveling ceremony.

D.D.G.M.’s and Masonic Peace Officersplease note: Copies of the panoramic photostaken at Grand Lodge may be ordered by call-ing the Houston Scottish Rite business officeat (713) 432-1980, or send a check for $20 toHouston Scottish Rite, P.O. Box 20788, Hous-ton, TX 77225-0788. Please contact the officeas soon as possible to place your order.


From the Grand Secretary

Grand Master’s ConferenceSchedule

Feb. 24 Lubbock 9:00 a.m.Scottish Rite Temple, 602 Ave. Q

Feb. 24 Amarillo 3:00 p.m.Khiva Shrine Temple, 305 E. 5th

Mar. 3 San Antonio 10:00 a.m.Scottish Rite Temple, 308 Ave E.

Mar. 10 Longview 10:00 a.m.Pine Tree High School, 2100 W. Loop 281

Mar. 24 Corpus Christi 10:00 a.m.Al Amin Shrine Temple, 2001 Suntide Rd.

Mar. 30 Abilene 6:30 p.m.Abilene Lodge No. 558, 1265-½ North 2nd

Mar. 31 Wichita Falls 10:00 a.m.Mascat Shrine Temple, 5101 Henry Grace Fwy.

Apr. 7 Waco 9:00 a.m.Lee Lockwood Library, 2601 W. Waco Dr.

Apr. 7 Austin 3:00 p.m.Scottish Rite Temple, 207 W. 18th St.

Apr. 21 Houston 10:00 a.m.Houston Scottish Rite, 7575 Brompton

Apr. 28 Kurten 10:00 a.m.Kurten Community Center, 13055 E. Hwy. 21

May 4 Midland 6:30 p.m.Midland Lodge No. 623,1600 W. Wall

May 5 El Paso 1:00 p.m.Scottish Rite Temple, 301 W. Missouri

May 19 Mount Pleasant 10:00 a.m.Temple Lodge No. 70, 2800 N. Jefferson

May 26 Fort Worth 10:00 a.m.Masonic Temple, 1100 Henderson

The Grand Lodge Annual Com-munication of 2000 is now history,and a tremendous amount of busi-ness was conducted. It was a veryharmonious session, and everyoneseemed well pleased with all thatwas accomplished and the fact thatpeace and harmony prevailed, asexpected.

Many changes were made inthe Laws of the Grand Lodge, someof which were simple and straight-forward, while others were complexand broad in scope. The Commit-tee on Masonic Jurisprudence,which is charged with the respon-sibility of assuring all changes arein legal and proper form, asked for,and the Grand Lodge granted them, time to properly codify allapproved changes. That committee has indicated its reportwill be forthcoming in “early 2001.” Upon receipt, the revi-sions will be assimilated, printed and distributed to the Lodges.In the interim, following is a thumbnail sketch of the disposi-tion of each Resolution and Recommendation:

Not Adopted:Resolutions 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16 and 17.Recommendations 1, 2, 6, 8 and 11. Number 10 was

withdrawn.Adopted:

Resolutions 5, 6, 13 and 18.Recommendations 7, 12, 13, 14 and Holdover No. 1.

Amended and Adopted:Resolutions 4, 10, 14 and 1999 Holdover No. 13.Recommendations 3, 4, 5 and 9.

It is hoped this information will be of benefit to you andyour Lodge. As stated previously, when all changes are re-ceived, they will be printed and distributed.

We wish for you, your Lodge, its officers and members, avery happy, successful and prosperous New Year in Freema-sonry and in your personal lives and affairs.

With kindest personal regards, I remain,Sincerely and fraternally,


The Board of Directors of the MasonicHome and School of Texas, at their Jan. 12,2001 meeting, unanimously voted to invite in-terested Masons to attend the regularly sched-uled board meetings. Meetings are held on theHome and School campus, except the Decem-ber meeting in Waco. There may be, of course,matters that require an executive session, butalmost all of the business conducted is in opensession. The meeting dates for 2001 are:

Friday, Mar. 16, at 9:30 a.m.Saturday, May 26, at 2:00 p.m.Friday, Sept. 14, at 9:30 a.m.Friday, Nov. 16, at 9:30 a.m.Sat., Dec. 8, after Grand Lodge elections

MH&S Board of Directorsinvite Masons to attend

2001 Wardens’ Retreat andLeadership Training

Aug. 10 - 12 DallasAug. 17 - 19 AustinAug. 24 - 26 NacogdochesAug. 31 - Sept. 2 HoustonSept. 14 - 16 El Paso

Grand Lodge Jewelry Grand Lodge Jewelry Grand Lodge Jewelry Grand Lodge Jewelry Grand Lodge Jewelry 20012001200120012001

Qty. Description Price Each Total___ 521DBD Lapel Pin 5.00 _______ 521DBDC Ladies Charm* 5.00 _______ 520DBD Bronze Coin 3.00 _______ 524DBDEC Enamel Coin 5.00 _______ 525DBDSC Silver Coin 25.00 _______ 525DBDM 2001 Mint Set 50.00 _______ 526DBD Large Belt Buckle 30.00 _______ 522DBD Small Belt Buckle 25.00 _______ 523DBDBB Bronze Bolo Tie 5.00 _______ 523DBDEB Enamel BoloTie 10.00 _______ 523DBDSB Silver Bolo Tie 30.00 _______ 532DBD Tie Chain 10.00 _______ 536DBD Cuff Links 10.00 _______ 539DBD Money Clip 10.00 _______ 528DBD Logo Sticker 1.00 _______ 529DBD Decals for Tail Light 3.00 _______ 537DBD License Frame 4.00 _______ 536DBDG Cap, light gray/navy 10.00 _______ 536DBDW Cap, white/red 10.00 _______ 533DBDG Shirt, light gray 25.00 ____

Specify size MED L XL XXL XXXL___ 533DBDW Shirt, white 25.00 ____

Specify size MED L XL XXL XXXL___ 540DBD Logo Silk Tie 30.00 _______ 527DBD Dominoes Set 30.00 ____

ALL ORDERS ADD P&H 3.00 * Not Pictured TOTAL ______

533DBDG

Make checks payable to: The Grand Lodge of Texas. Visa or MasterCardorders must include card number, name as it appears on card and expi-ration date. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

MAIL THIS ENTIRE PAGE TO:James D. Ward, Grand SecretaryP.O. Box 446Waco, TX 76703-0446

529DBD

537DBD

533DBDG

< 533DBDW

536DBDG

536DBDW

539DBD

536DBD 521DBD532DBD

525DBDM524DBDEC

524DBDEC520DBD 525DBDSC

523DBDEB

523DBDBB

523DBDSB

526DBD ^

522DBD ^

^540DBD

528DBD

___________________________________________________________Name (Please Print)

__________________________________________________________Address

___________________________________________________________City State Zip Code

____________________Phone

___________________________________________________________

Credit card number and expiration date

527DBD ^

The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.P.O. Box 607Waco, TX 76703

YOU MUST NOTIFY THE TEXAS MASONMAGAZINE OF YOUR CHANGE OF AD-DRESS AND PROVIDE ALL OF THE INFOR-MATION LISTED AT RIGHT OR THE CHANGECANNOT BE MADE.

For fastest possible service clip this entire page,make changes at right, and mail the completedform to Grand Lodge at the address below:

CHANGING ADDRESS? Is your address label incorrect?

_________________________________________________(Name) (Lodge No.)

_________________________________________________(Correct Address) (Identification number from dues card)

_________________________________________________(City) (State) (Zip Code)

Change my address to (please type or print):

Butterfly Pin The First Lady’s Scholarship Program

From Cocoon to ...Beautiful Butterfly

From Today’s Youth to ...Tomorrow’s Leaders

The First Lady of Texas Masonry, Mrs. Marlene Dibrell,has announced a special college scholarship program forMasonic year 2001. This program has at its goal the pre-sentation of college scholarships to members of the threeMasonic youth organizations: DeMolay, Job’s Daughters andthe Rainbow girls of Texas. Your buying, wearing and sell-ing of butterfly pins is a symbol of support of our youth andevidence of your contribution to this program. Grand LodgeOfficers’ wives, District Deputy Grand Masters’ wives, rep-resentatives of the youth groups and friends are selling thepins and they will also be available at the jewelry table atGrand Master’s Conferences, Warden’s Retreats and otherMasonic events around the state.

vol. x, issue 1 · justice, and is a master in the ameri-can inn of court in san antonio. he was...

Documents