The Louisiana

FREEMASON
VOL. 36 SUMMER 2008 NUMBER 3

M: W: Thomas B. McIntosh Jr.

Grand Master 1970
 The Louisiana

FREEMASON
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON is the Official
Publication of The Grand Lodge of the State of
Louisiana, F & A.M., 5800 Masonic Drive, Alex-
andria, Louisiana 71301. Published quarterly for
members of Lodges in Louisiana. U.S. rate only.
Mailed ‘Non-Profit Organization’ third class, prepaid
at Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON will accept
unsolicited articles, with the right to edit, and use
when space permits. Articles and pictures become
the property of the magazine. Authors are requested
to sign articles and
COVER STORY
include their name, address, phone number and, if a Thomas B. McIntosh, Jr.
member, the name of their Masonic Lodge. Articles Page 6
that are printed do not necessarily reflect the views
of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana.
Address Changes should be sent to the Lodge
Secretary who will notify the Grand Secretary on
the proper form. DO NOT send changes of address
to the Louisiana Freemason. Send all email, mail INSIDE THIS ISSUE
and /or material for consideration for publication
in the Louisiana Freemason to: Grand Master’s Message Page 3
W: Steven A. Pence, P.M. Editor
The LOUISIANA FREEMASON Feature Article Page 4
105 Bayhills Dr.,
Benton, LA 71006
Email: storm52@bellsouth.net Biography Page 6

Commentary Pages 10
Committee To Supervise
Publication of the
LOUISIANA FREEMASON
Lodge News Page 15

W: Steven A. Pence, P.M. Editor (362)

ASSISTANCE
105 Bay Hills Dr. Picture Guidelines
Benton, LA 71006
W: Wiley G. Bell III, P.M.-Chairman (398) Do not have the subjects stand behind
99 Bayou Robert Road the altar or any object that prevents the
Alexandria, LA 71302
M: W: Clayton J. Borne, III, P.G.M. (P.U.I.)
camera to be close to them. Aprons,
433 Metairie Rd., Suite 100 legs or shoes do not have to be in the
Metairie, LA 70005 photo. The closer you can frame the
Naresh Sharma, P.M. (47)
19414 Creekround Ave.
subjects(s) the better. Divide large
Baton Rouge, LA 70817 groups into smaller ones and submit
W: David A. Roach, P.M. (221) additional pictures. I can only do so
6511 Misty Ln.
Pineville, LA 71360
much with Adobe Photoshop®. If the
picture is dark, out of focus or poor
quality on your end; it will also be on
mine. Casual apparel with political
messages or advertisements for your
favorite brand of alcoholic beverage
will not be used.
2
GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE
Brethren, we have traveled across the width
and breadth of the United States during the past
few months representing Louisiana Masonry,
gathering and sharing information with other
Grand Jurisdictions. We have been favorably
received everywhere we have gone.
Similarly, we have enjoyed the hospitality,
friendships, and brotherly love shown to us
all over our great State. Thank you for your
warm reception as we visited Lodges through-
out Louisiana. It is truly gratifying to see the
enthusiasm for and dedication to our programs
to strengthen Freemasonry.
We have trmendous opportunities to move
our beloved Fraternity forward. My dream is
Lloyd E. Hennigan, Jr.
to make Grand Lodge Fraternal self-sustaining
Grand Master
beyond our dues and per capita, by continuing
State of Louisiana
to encourage our Perpetual Membership pro-
gram, creation of an income stream by development of projects involving our real
estate in Alexandria, and development of our new Endowment Program. Elsewhere
in this publication you will find our first appeal by our newly created committee
under the direction of M: W: Bro Clayton J “Chip” Borne III, PGM. The program
for establishment of tax advantageous donations, including bequeathals, to our
Endowment Fund is long overdue.
We must pursue a “two-track” philosophy for Fraternal and Charities, for
in no wise can we neglect our charitable programs. Our Dyslexia program has
progressed to the point, first proposed by M:W: Bro William H. Brown, PGM
to hire professional help to assist in promoting Masonry in general and Dyslexia
Clinics in particular. We plan to fulfill this need this year. As in every endeavor,
we must pay our way, and I call on every Lodge in our great Grand Jurisdiction
to participate in our primary charity by sponsoring a clinic, or by contributing by
fund raiser or other means a minimum of $200.00 this year. If we do not support
it, is it really “our” charity?
The Grand Master’s medallion program is doing well. A letter will soon go
out to those who have not yet participated. I sincerely hope we will make this our
best fund raiser yet.
The future is here. Our plan is in place. You can help strengthen our great
Fraternity. To do so, we must all work together to support the programs that will
create a healthier and stronger atmosphere for all Lodges in Louisiana. My personal
thanks for all you do. Sincerely and fraternally,
Lloyd E. Hennigan, Jr.
Grand Master, 2008-09
The 2009 Grand Lodge Session is scheduled for the first weekend in February. Commit-
tee meetings begin on Friday February 6th in Alexandria.
3
 PERSONAL INTEGRITY
by
Clayton J. Borne III, PGM

I
n the September 2007 Louisiana Freemason is an article entitled Relevancy
of Freemasonry in the Twenty-First Century, originally presented at the
8th World Conference of Regular Masonic Grand Lodges in Paris. The
paper concluded with the conclusion that our fundamental principles and
their significance to society are just as relevant today as they were to our ancient
brothers.
Accepting this conclusion as the premise for this paper and extrapolating the
cause and effect relationship forward in time, what is true is that civilized society
and mankind in general will measure the dynamics of our Spiritual Brotherhood
not by its idealistic objectives, but whether the Masonic philosophy is truly alive
and evident in the lives of each of our brothers. In other words, if instead of integ-
rity they see hypocrisy, instead of truth they see prevarications, instead of honesty
they see deception; our footprints on the pages of time will be tarnished. Where
our history evidences a God Centered Life adorned in a cloak of charity, brazen
by badges of truth, honor and courage, the 21st century will continue to see men
drawn to our lodges, as the Brotherhood and its destiny is truly a reflection of who
we are and all that we do.
As a predicate to this paper, I ask each of my brothers the question, “Why do
we, as a brotherhood, believe that belief in a Supreme Being is necessary for a
personal transformation in our lives and ultimately necessary for the development
of a disciplined yet free society?” As an extension of that thought, “Why is a belief
in a Supreme Being essential to the landmarks of our fraternity and sacred to the
ritual of our Regular Masonic Lodges?” The answer is fundamental to understand-
ing the Masonic Philosophy or the Masonic Way of Life.
Exactly how we were able to affirm a belief in a Supreme Being and what effect
did that acceptance have on our lives? Have we truly challenged the concept of
the “Being behind Reality” and its effect on the men that we are? Did the Masonic
initiation ritual enhance your conviction and your commitment to spiritual growth?
Philosophers over the ages have challenged this basic concept and pushed mankind
to investigate more specific questions/ What is the nature of God and how is God
related to the universe? Is God a force responsible for creation? What is the true
concept of God? Is it possible to even come to a knowledge of God? And for us, as
Masons, why was it essential to the tenants of our brotherhood that we affirm the
concept before gaining admission? Why have we severed communications with
those Grand Lodges that believe it is no longer essential to the Masonic discipline
to embrace a belief in a Supreme Being?
KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
The concept challenged by many early philosophers and historians which is
fundamental to each of our most basic belief is “How do we as humans come to a
continued next page
4
Personal Integrity
from page 4:
knowledge of God and why is it important? Further, for the purpose of this paper,
what effect does this academic inquiry have on our Masonic Brotherhood, its
spiritual pursuits and objectives?
After much research, self reflection and thought, it is my sincere belief that a
finite creature, such as man, to come to a knowledge of an infinite creature or be-
ing, such as God, is on its surface impossible. The reason: man as a finite creature
can not truly understand or comprehend the limitless concepts such as eternity or
infinity. Despite many brilliant philosophers allegations to the contrary, finite man
conceptually defines everything in terms of or with limits.
God however most definitely can be known. God is known to the extent that
his nature would demand it be revealed. That is, in the ways God would choose to
reveal himself to his creations. An example would be found in our perception and
knowledge of nature. As a Christian the revelation would be the embodiment and
person of Jesus Christ. There are others. Only in the revelation is a finite knowledge
of God possible. By his creation God or the Creator becomes the principal of the
Universe. God is the whole of his creation; God is truly the “Grand Architect of
the Universe”.
EFFECT ON MAN of a BELIEF IN GOD
I submit that the reason that a belief in God is essential for our Spiritual
Brotherhood is because of our fraternity’s conviction and purpose to aggressively
encourage the development of the spiritual nature of man, knowing well that our
object over time is the creation and development of a self disciplined society. That
development must, of necessity, begin with each of use personally and its success
measured by our individual spiritual advancement. When viewed collectively this
discipline creates dynamic lodges. The obvious question becomes, how does this
process individually and collectively take place? Exactly what are the results and
are they truly in harmony with what we believe are our personal life goals and
objectives?
Very simply, a belief in God has an immediate and direct bearing on our values
and convictions. Those disciplines have a direct effect on our behavior. The mo-
tivation is the acceptance of belief opens the door to the spirit life after death and
our ability as finite creatures to pass upon death to an infinite state. Exactly how
does this intellectual affirmation or belief transform each of us and is our Masonic
Fraternity doings its part in stimulating this growth?
Understanding that once man has a conviction or belief in God, it created, in
addition to the most basic concept of survival which dominated and existed in a non-
orderly barbaric society, a true purpose for life. Belief in a creator, God, transforms
man from a rude, self-centered, savage state into a creature with a more civilized
meaningful purpose. That objective or hope is to unify himself ultimately with his
creator with the sincere desire of returning to the spirit or infinite state always with
eternity in view. It begins to change our convictions and beliefs and ultimately our
lives. How do the acceptance of God and this life changing process take place?
continued on page 12
5
 M: W: Thomas Boone McIntosh, Jr.
Grand Master 1970
by
Steven A. Pence

L
ong before the advent of instant messaging, text messages, e-mail and Al
Gore creating the internet, men established long term personal relation-
ships with each other. Long before there were disposable razors, diapers,
phones and income, lifelong friendships existed in society. Such was the
relationship between my father and Tom McIntosh. As a result, our two
families developed a close kinship and I grew up knowing Tom, Miss Betty, Liz,
Tommy, Jeanie, Kim and Terry.
I enlisted the assistance of Tommy, Jeanie, Kim and Terry to prepare this article.
What you will read about Bro. McIntosh is intertwined with personal and loving
memories from his children and Mrs. Sybil McIntosh, Tom’s widow.
Thomas Boone McIntosh, Jr. was born on March 24, 1926 in Gulfport, Mis-
sissippi. He and his twin brother, Jerold, and younger sister Marion Anne were
the children of Annie Dickson Stiglets and Thomas Boone McIntosh. The family
moved to New Orleans in 1933 when Tom was seven, where Tom Jr. received all of
his education. At graduation from Fortier Senior High School, Tom was president
of Phi Lambda Epsilon High School Fraternity, President of the Student Body of
1500 boys and President of his graduating class.
In 1943, at the age of seventeen, Brother McIntosh enlisted in the United States
Naval Reserve. Tom and my father served together during WW II in the Pacific
Theater and were classmates while both attended
Tulane University after the war. M: W: McIntosh was
honorably discharged as a Lieutenant.
Shortly after discharge in 1946, he married Eliza-
beth (Betty) Blain Lyle, the daughter of Mr. & Mrs.
Carl O Lyle. Bro Lyle, a native Georgian, was raised
at Atlanta Lodge #59 in 1919. Prior to Betty’s ar-
rival, the Lyles relocated to New Orleans. Tom and
Betty were blessed with five children, 4 girls and one
son. Elizabeth (Liz) the eldest daughter, Thomas
III (Tommy), Jean (Jeanie), Mary (Kim) and Terry accompanied their parents to
numerous events. The McIntosh’s were married 44 years when Betty passed away
on September 22, 1990 due to heart disease. The McIntosh siblings explained that
although the loss, over the years, of family members and friends brought sorrow
to their Dad, nothing was to compare to the devastating loss of his beloved Betty.
God restored love and happiness to Bro. McIntosh’s life with Sybil Vaughn Va-
risco. They married in 1993 to the delight of the McIntosh clan. Four years later in
1997, Tom faced another tragedy. Elizabeth Anne McIntosh Nordvoll, his eldest
daughter lost her battle with cancer.
continued next page
6
 Brother McIntosh was an active member of Lakeview Presbyterian Church. He
was a ruling Elder, the highest lay office in the church. On many occasions, he was
called upon to fill the pulpit in the absence of the ministers in southern Louisiana
and Mississippi. He served the church as Treasurer and Finance Chairman and was
a leader during a half-million dollar construction expansion. He was a delegate to
and actively served on both Commissions and Committees of Presbyters.
M: W: McIntosh was active in his community in the areas of public educa-
tion and civic affairs. He was presented the Award of Merit by the City of New
Orleans. Tom held membership in the Chamber of Commerce and served in the
Parent Groups of Hynes Elementary, Beauregard Junior High, Franklin and Ken-
nedy Senior High Schools, New Orleans Recreation Department Athletic Groups,
YMCA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes as well as several others.

L:R - W: Bro Thomas B. McIntosh, Sr. (Gee-Dad) Grand Chaplain, M:W: Thomas B. McIntosh,
Jr. Grand Master, Mrs. Thomas B. McIntosh, Jr. (Betty), Terry, Tommy, Kim, Mrs. Thomas B.
McIntosh, Sr. (Anne) and Jeanie (1970)
During his time at Tulane, Brother McIntosh was an outstanding student with
many academic honors. He served the Law School on the Moot Court Board
during his junior year and during his senior year on the Law Review, both being
scholastic honors. He was elected to Kappa Delta Phi, the oldest honorary frater-
nity on campus; selected for Omicron Delta Kappa, national honor society; was
listed in Who’s Who Among Students in America Colleges and Universities, in two
separate years; was President of Delta Sigma Phi Social Fraternity and President
of Phi Delta Phi International Legal Fraternity. Upon graduation, M: W: McIntosh
engaged in private law practice for several years and continued membership of the
Louisiana State Bar Association until his death.
In 1952, he left his law practice and joined Crescent Materials Services, Inc.,
a company founded by his father-in-law in 1928. Tom held many offices at the
company and was named president in 1976 upon the death of Brother Carl Lyle.
Bro McIntosh held that position until his death in 2000.
M: W: McIntosh’s Masonic history is extensive. He was Initiated, Passed and
continued page 8
7
M: W: Thomas B McIntosh, Jr
from page 7:
Raised in Corinthian Lodge No. 190, with his twin brother Jerry, by their father, W:
Bro Tom McIntosh Sr., with over 600 in attendance. Later, Tom affiliated by plural
membership with Etoile Polaire Lodge No. 1 and served as Worshipful Master in
1963. M: W: McIntosh was also a plural member of Louisiana Lodge #102. Brother
McIntosh served on numerous committees and in numerous offices of the Grand
Lodge. In 1963 he served as Grand Pursivant and in 1966 as Grand Marshal by
appointment. From 1964 through 1966 he served on the Law and Jurisprudence
Committee and served on the Grand Lodge Hall Board beginning in 1964. He
was Chairman of the Charity Committee and was appointed Representative of the
Grand Lodge of Georgia, in 1968. In 1967 he was elected Grand Junior Warden
and continued in the elected Grand Lodge line until his elevation as Grand Master
in 1970. In Washington, D C in February 1969, Brother McIntosh was elected
Chairman of the Conference Committee for the Conference of Grand Masters of
Masons in North America for 1970.
Tom was a member of Jerusalem Temple; Concord Chapter No. 2 Royal Arch
Masons; Louisiana Council No. 2 Cryptic Masons; Jacques deMolay Commandery
No. 2 Knights Templar and Past Sovereign of the St. Paul Conclave, Red Cross
of Constantine.
M: W: McIntosh served the Grand Consistory of Louisiana as Grand Master of
Kadosh in 1962, the youngest man to ever hold that office. In 1952 he was honored
by being elected to receive the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander Court
of Honour. In 1963, he was coroneted as Inspector General Honorary 33° at age
37, the second youngest Thirty-Third Degree Scottish Rite Mason in the country
at that time. M: W: McIntosh received the 33° in Washington, DC with his father
in attendance. This was one of Tom’s proudest Masonic memories. Leroy Gordon
Cooper, Jr. was a member of that class. Ill. Cooper, 33° is sometimes better known
as Colonel Gordo Cooper USAF, one of the seven original astronauts in Project
Mercury, the first manned space effort in the United States. Tom was appointed
Personal Representative of the Sovereign Grand Inspector General-Louisiana in
1967.

L:R - Tom McIntosh, Jr., Tom McIntosh, Sr. & Gordon Cooper
continued next page
8
 In 1971 Brother McIntosh was elected Chairman of the 1976 Committee for
the Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in North America. This committee
formed the Masonic activities for the bi-centennial celebration in 1976 for our Na-
tions’s 200th birthday. Tom and members of his committee traveled to Washington
DC for the annual Grand Master’s event and met with President Richard Nixon in
the Oval Office. M: W: McIntosh brought greetings from the 5 million members
of the Masonic Fraternity and outlined the many events planned by the Fraternity
for the celebration.
Tom was an accomplished swimmer and
lifeguard in his youth. He continued to enjoy
swimming for recreation and exercise through-
out his life. Brother McIntosh remained an
avid sailor and was a member of the Southern
Yacht Club. He and the family sailed on Lake
Pontchartrain for pleasure and Tom participat-
ed in many races in the local regattas. M: W:
McIntosh also loved travel. He booked many
cruises and tours throughout the world. Tom
and several Past Grand Masters, with whom he
continued a close personal friendship, enjoyed
traveling as a group, with their spouses, for many years.
I asked the McIntosh Clan to provide insight into Bro McIntosh’s proudest
moments. They replied that
although their Dad was a man
of many accomplishments in
his professional and personal
life, they believe Tom’s proud-
est moment was in 1999 during
son Tommy’s wedding. Tom
Jr. stood in Jackson Square as
Tommy’s best man, then served
as Grand Marshal of a second
line parade through the French
Quarter to the reception, much to the delight of hundreds of tourists.
I also asked the gang to provide anecdotes on how they and others remember
Tom. This is a few of the comments they shared:

“I observed him around his family and also around his employees and co-
workers. He was always a stern but very fair person.”

“He would not tolerate someone cursing or speaking disrespectfully around

his family or in his business office.”

continued page 37
9
 Masonry’s Bloody Obligations
Kenneth Bond deMoss, PM
Hope Lodge #145
The penalties associated with Masonry’s bloody obligations are so ancient that
even their origins are lost from lack of written history. Many that are associated with
our obligations arose from the medieval legal systems of Europe. These punish-
ments were often barbarous and administered to criminals for varies crimes some
of which by today’s standards we consider quite minor. Even people who were
fighting for the religious freedoms and civil liberties that we enjoy today, by their
actions put them outside the law and branded them criminals and were severely
punished. It may be hard to think the cruel and inhumane as many of these forms
of punishments. The cutting off of body parts and the mutilation of the human
flesh was still in effect during the 17th and 18th centuries. Cruel and unusual as
these punishments were they were actually considered normal during the formative
years Masonry and quietly accepted as common place. Throngs of people would
sometimes turnout to view public executions such as hangings and lashings with
some perverse form of entertainment.
Early Masonic documents and manuscripts as far back as the Regius Poem
and the Cook Manuscript, mentioned the existence of these charges, but they had
no previsions for any physical penalties. It was in 1693 the Edinburgh Register
Manuscript first mentioned that there were penalties associated with an obligation.
The Dumfries Manuscript No.4 in 1710 was the first to reference the bloody obliga-
tions. When it stated that the heart would be removed while, the head cut off and
the body was to be buried in the sand at the low tide mark. These were in the ritual
following the administrating of the obligation. In 1717 is the first time you will
find the obligations with the penalties included. That would be found in “A Masons
Confession” which was published in Scotland. Samuel Pritchard wrote “Masonry
Dissected” in 1730 where all three penalties were stated but all were given in the
Entered Apprentice Degree. Not until his pamphlet; “Three Distinct Knocks” was
printed in 1760 were they to be found assigned one penalty per degree.
No one is naïve enough to think any lodge would carry out one of these penalties
today. In nearly 300 years since the formation of the Grand Lodge of London in
1717, there has never been a proven incident those penalties have ever been carried
out. However, a reference that Brother Kipling referred to one that was carried out
by Indian sailors [Lascar Crew] on one of their own; he also said he was initiated by
a Muslim, passed by an Englishman, and raised by a Hindu. This was later proven
to be false. Until the time I can find proof of this incident described by Kipling, I
will be a skeptic. The Morgan affair is the only other incident I could find where
one of the penalties may have been enforced but it has never been completely or
satisfactory proven or totally documented.
It is these bloody obligations that have been so problematic to this order. They
have caused us to run afoul with Popes, Kings and Dictators which has caused
continued next page
10
Masonry’s Blood Obligations
from page10:
much persecution throughout the world for our members. The obligations are also
fertile ground for conspiracy theorist to base their conclusions. The oaths that
are taken today are symbolic as are their penalties. These obligations are used to
impress on the mind of a new Mason as to the seriousness and how solemnly we
take them. He is entering into a contract between himself and the Almighty God
not one between him and the Lodge. If he therefore breaks his obligation that
was given freely and voluntarily sworn before God, and he sealed his obligation
on the Holy Bible it then becomes an issue between that Mason and his God. He
has broken not only his word as a man but also the Third Commandment. All
we can do as Masons and members of a Lodge is reprimand, suspend, or expel
him for his actions.
The penalties of these obligations have been removed from the rituals of the
Grand Lodge of England in 1989, and were placed within their lectures. Most
of the Grand Lodges of Europe New Zealand, and Canada have followed suit.
In the United States several Grand Lodge jurisdictions have also done the same.
New Brothers are informed that in past generations of Masons were bound to
the fraternity by these oaths and that they were a carry over from our medieval
past and were never meant to be enforced. The punishments inferred by these
bloody obligations have now been replaced by actual penalties. If these bloody
obligations were never meant to be enforced, why do most jurisdictions still retain
them today in their rituals?

Masonic Penalties
Roger M. Firestone, PM
National-Stansbury-Dawson Lodge #12
In recent years, a movement has developed to do away with the traditional
penalties associated with the most basic of a Mason’s obligations as a member
of the fraternity. In Pennsylvania, for example, along with some other states, the
alterations passed without much notice by the rest of the world, but in some cases,
notably that of the Grand Lodge of England in early 1987, this change has been
deemed sufficiently significant that the news was reported on network radio and
in major metropolitan newspapers. Unfortunately, the treatment given by report-
ers was at best light, if not derisive. Can we consider a change that has made the
Craft a subject of amusement to be beneficial? And what are the causes that have
impelled this change after so many years?
The origins of Masonic penalties have been reviewed in a number of Masonic
journals at some length. Reference is often made to the Mysteries of ancient Greece
and Rome, whose initiates were required to bind themselves under stringent threats
of bodily harm before the secrets of the gods were revealed. Although there is no
evidence of the direct transmission of these penalties from the ancient mystagogues
to the founders of Freemasonry, in human cultures, concepts once introduced are
continued on page 38
11
continued from page 5
Personal Integrity:

Our Masonic Brotherhood teaches and encourages a philosophy of self transfor-

mation and the development of a character that recognizes the need to subordinate
personal gain and self interest to the greater good of society. The transformation of
the finite spirit in each of us demands a reassessment of the most basic concepts of
life in order to give priority and meaning to the fundamental concepts of goodness
which are absolutely necessary for the advancement of mankind in a free society,
which society evidences an individual and collective self discipline to maintain
and insure order. That order has a fundamental principle; that principle is “Truth”.
Our Brotherhood embraces truth as the heart and soul of each and every virtue. As
Masons we advocate a virtuous life. It logically follows that a virtuous life results
in a life of integrity.
I submit that individual integrity is the essential element in a social structure or
order that cultivates and encourages individual and collective freedom and liberty.
It insures a disciplined society that cultivates, in a secure way, the collective peace-
ful advancement of humanity. In general, where personal integrity is lacking, laws
become problematic and of little value. This is why we, as Masons, mandate this
unselfish discipline for all of humanity, especially our Brotherhood. How exactly
do we individually achieve these idealistic principles and what is our responsibil-
ity as Masonic mentors, especially to the Entered Apprentice who is still trying
to understand himself and the confusion of the world in which he lives? It begins
with a belief in God.
MASONIC IDEALS
As we strive to cultivate integrity in our personal lives and collectively in our
spiritual brotherhood, our efforts meet with constant resistance. As appalling as it
may be realistically, society today is a reflection of disrespect, an unappreciative
and uncaring disease that migrates into all aspects of our respective culture. The
cure as with all other social problems is education.
The Masonic ideals and their influence on society through the ages have been
exerted in no better or nobler purpose or cause that the ageless struggle by the
Brotherhood for “Liberty, Equality and Fraternity” and ultimately a secure free-
dom for society. Our Fraternity through the ages has been the champions of the
oppressed people with the object being the emancipation of mankind from every
form of tyranny. Within our lodges Liberty or Freedom, especially in thought, was
freely encouraged. That freedom, based on these principles, made it possible for
the natural progression of a transformed life.
The humanist philosophy so prevalent in society poses obstructions to our Ma-
sonic ideals. The basic concept of Liberty has always had an aggressive enemy.
It is the self centered, selfish concept of entitlement. The entitlement belief is the
direct result of the modernist doctrine that this is no rational basis for values. De-
spite our Masonic brotherhood’s continued efforts to promote integrity, the value
system of society has been eroded. Much of society’s values become problematic,
in other words nothing is truly good or bad. It’s all a matter of opinion. We must,
continued on page 13
12
continued from page 12
Personal Integrity:
of necessity ask then how and why have principals? Do as you please or whatever
you can rationalize as being right. Without the liberty to choose our own actions
and make our own choices, we lose the qualities of responsibility that make us
uniquely human. It is only when people do the right thing freely can we have con-
fidence in their character. If they act out of principles such as truth, benevolence,
productiveness, as taught in our Lodges, then we know their actions resulted from
good character and the principle of liberty is preserved.
INTEGRITY
The world in which we now live is dramatically changing. Idealistic principles
are important to fewer and fewer people. We demand of our leaders, honesty, but
we don’t really expect them to be honest. Our societies have become problematic
where honesty becomes relative and rationalization of all conduct is the norm. We
are often saying that our communities are civilized societies of law, but too often
laws are broken and then attempts are made to justify the actions. That logic is
corruptive, destructive but most importantly contagious.
Prevarication or lying has infected our culture. The generation of today lies
without thought. They lie for no apparent reason. Recent surveys state that 90% of
society lies in some manner, frequently. Truthfulness is no longer a virtue people
try to adopt for their lives. Conversely, Masonic Philosophers and our Masonic
Ritual of instruction view truth as a divine attribute and as we have previously
stated, truth should be a the heart of each and every virtue.
Marriage and family are no long sacred institutions. Infidelity is common place.
The work ethics of our forefathers are disappearing from society. Procrastination
at the workplace is common with no respect or appreciation given to the employ-
ment. Society says that it wants respect but modern man’s life experiences evidence
a serious lack of it. The lack of respect in society is the end result of a lack of
purpose, discipline and moral commitment. These are the very ideals that we, as
Masons, fight to preserve.
A brother whose life evidences qualities of honesty, discipline and courage is
proof of a transformed life that has earned respect. His life embodies an individual
quest and a determined search for light. It is a fraternal concept shared with our
brothers of like mind. This writer submits that the attraction, the spiritual reward,
the ultimate objective of our spiritual brotherhood is the character which is the
epitome of all virtue, namely Integrity. In general the quality is defined as our
ability to naturally embrace a way of life with moral and ethical principles. Its
presence in each of our lives will be the attribute that will continue to draw good
men to our Lodges.
The driving force of our Masonic Fraternity is to instill in each of our broth-
ers a mission to create within each man, that knocks at our door of our lodges, a
thirst for integrity. That desire can only be quenched by a commitment to those
moral principles or goals in each of our lives. We must teach that truth, honesty
and moral principles are of prime importance. The newly made Brother should be
instructed to subsequently understand that a man of integrity is unimpeachable;
continued on page 14
13
continued from page 13
Personal Integrity:
he is steadfast; his word is his bond. He is never critical of others, even those in
which he is in opposition. He restrains his emotions or passions. He is reliable and
is one to always pay his debt. He should stand upon principle no matter what the
consequence whether alone or in a crowd.
CONCLUSION
To the Entered Apprentice and his search for light, “Integrity” and its Masonic
ideals are but idealistic concepts although often cognitively embraced; it is rarely
evident in his life. The apprentice, as he begins his transformation, begins to
understand that a person of integrity is a person that thrives for consistency of
principal and that principle translates to living the ideals. In other words, ideals
such as Truth, Honesty, Charity and Moral Discipline are no longer problematic
nor are they mere idealistic principles. There are to become a true way of life. Our
young brother is developing a philosophy of purpose.
The Mason begins to understand that the fullness of life is found in that con-
sistency and he is made aware of the rewards and blessings of living a life with
ideals as guiding principles. He realizes in a more profound way that his integrity
is defined and is the result of choices made repeatedly in his daily life. The brother
begins to realize that the joy in this life’s reality is in the journey. The journey with
ideals. The journey with purpose.
Our Spiritual Brotherhood is committed to the concept that all of mankind
is entitled to be enlightened and that process begins with a God centered life. It
develops respect of the laws of society, but more important to us as Masons, it is a
self imposed discipline. A discipline, that through its ideal, generates unbelievable
rewards: Freedom of thought, Freedom of religion, Freedom of speech, Freedom
to hold diverse beliefs are to name a few.
Where the dignity of man, especially within the Brotherhood, is measured by
the integrity of his life, that dignity becomes an ideal of respect; that ideal then can
be freely expected and freely given. It is basic to the tenant of our fraternity.
Collectively, we as brothers, have the opportunity to make the world in which
we live a better place, a place of integrity where our Masonic ideals do in fact
become a way of life.

This paper was originally delivered at the 10th Conference of Regional Grand Lodges in May
2008.
M:W: Akram R. Elias, GM of the Grand Lodge
of Washington D.C. and M: W: Clayton J.
Borne, III, PGM at the World Conference of
Regular Grand Lodges. 125 Grand Lodges were
represented.

14
H D ANDERSON #320 F. & A.M.
New Masons
The lodge in Noble continues to grow
as evidenced by the number of degrees
conferred during the first half of this year.
Our newest members were raised during
a Special Communication in May. L:R Bros Blair O Hunnicutt, Jason S Smith,
The Degree Team consisted of mem- James E Sepulvado and Horace McCauley
bers of the Lodge as well as those from
the 8th District. The 41 members and
visitors in attendance made a lasting
impression on the new Master Masons
as they were surprised to see so many
brethren willing to spend a Saturday
afternoon for their benefit.
After the presentations were made
everyone enjoyed an dinner hour of L:R W: John W Walker, WM, R: W: Lorin R
Mullins-DDGM 8th District, W: Bro Donald
fellowship and brotherhood. The lodge R Bush-DGL 8th District and W: Bro Charles
served brisket, ribs, sausage, chicken and A Bordelon, Jr.-SW PM DeRidder Lodge #271
pork loin. Once everyone was satiated, 10th District
the food was packed and delivered to the
local home for seniors.
PITKIN #338 F. & A.M. In June during a Stated Communi-
Proficiency Certificate cation of Pitkin Lodge, W: C. Jerry
Stokes, WM had the pleasure of pre-
senting Brother L.C. “Duke” Deverts
his 12th Certificate of Proficiency. Bro
Deverts is very proficient in the esoteric
work of our Grand Jurisdiction and is
very active in Masonry in the Eighth
Masonic District. Bro. Duke was 90
years old this past November. Who
sayes you get too old to learn or retain
L:R W: Bro Bro Deverts receives his Certificate
of Proficiency from W: Jerry Stokes

15
JUSTICE #449 F. & A.M.
Special Recognition
Justice Lodge #449, Lake Charles,
met in April and honored W: Bro Warde
C. Stumpf, P.M. Brother Warde headed
a committee of members for our fall
Gumbo fundraiser. W: Bro. Stumpf
went above and beyond by donating all
the necessary items including tickets,
ingredients, containers, and even cook-
ing the gumbo.
The lodge would like to commend
him for the time and effort involved
and recognizes that the fundraiser could
not have been a success without his
hard work.
PITKIN #338 F. & A.M.
Achievement Award
HAUGHTON #95 F. & A.M.
Masonic Labor
L:R R: W: Clyde Strout-DDGM 1st District, W:
Bro John M Dark, W: Bro Rufus E Wilson, W:
Johnny C Byrd-WM, M: W: Bro S Bruce East-
erly-PGM, Bro J Andrew Stephens, Bro Charlie
Rogers, W: Bro Willis L Hawkins, W: Bro Hoyt
S Hooper. Back Row L:R Bro Kenneth R Fuller
and W: Bro H B “Cookie” Grisham
16
L:R W: Bro Warde Stumpf receives Certificate of
Appreciation from W: James Dickerson-WM
R:W: Laurin R. “Moon” Mullins,
DDGM 8th District, presented Pitkin
Lodge the 2007 Achivement Award in
June. R:W: Mullens told the Lodge that
338 Lodges met the several require-
ments to earn the award during 2007 and
it is his pleasure to make the presenta-
tion. W: Bro Roy V. Cloud, Jr. WM 2007
was absent but his father, W: Bro Roy V.
Cloud, Sr. accepted the award on behalf
of his son and the Lodge.
During a Special Communication in
May, the Lodge conferred the Master Ma-
son Degree on its newest member. Bro
Andy Stephens was raised by members
of the Shreveport Scottish Rite Degree
Team and members of Haughton Lodge.
M: W: S Bruce Easterly-PGM was in the
East. M: W: Easterly was Andy’s former
supervisor and is a long time friend.
Earlier, W: Bro Richard C Haynes, Jr.
had conferred the Entered Apprentice
and Fellow Craft Degrees. Bro Haynes
is a close friend and co-worker of Bro
Stephens. Andy’s neighbor and friend
Bro Charlie Rogers of Cypress Lodge
assisted in all 3 degrees.
GERMANIA #46 F. & A.M.
After Katrina
A crawfish boil served to unofficially
celebrate the final repairs and remodel-
ing of the first floor. Hurricane Katrina
had flooded and destroyed the hall. With
dedication, sweat equity and volunteers
we have returned to some semblance of
normalcy. The weather was great, the
crawfish were fabulous but the fellow-
ship and camaraderie was even better.
ATKINS #266 F. & A.M.
Past Masters Night
Front Row W: Bros Jeoffrey C Clement, Sr.,
Larry B Ledbetter, Sr., Elton A. Bruner, Raymond
L. Paddie & Jackie R Johnson.
Middle: W: Bros James R Enkey & William R
Richards Back Row: W: Bro Richard L Hall, W:
Terry J Harris-WM & W: Bro James A Allen
W: Bro Ian Cairns-PM, wife Regina and Bro
John M. Day III-JW
Bro Robert Rapp crawfish chef
W: Bros Al Bello and Warren Hawthorne wel-
come Bro Charlie Bopp.
The members of Atkins Lodge held
their annual Past Masters recognition
night in May. During a Special Commu-
nication, W: Terry J Harris-WM opened
the evening by welcoming the members
and guests and the dinner hour began.
The Lodge served their famous BBQ
brisket, chicken and sausage, with all
the necessary trimmings.
There were nine Past Masters pres-
ent. Each spoke of their experience the
East. The five senior Past Masters drew
for the positions to close the Lodge. That
in itself was an experience for everyone
to remember.
17
PICKERING #477 F. & A.M.
Friend to Friend
The Lodge held its annual Bring
A Friend program and as in previous
years, was a huge success. The hour of
food and fellowship was followed by
an informative talk by W: Bro Finly S
Stanly-PM (1953) Treasurer of Leesville Vistors and Guests pictured with W: Gary R
Lodge #240. Wilson-WM

TEMPLE #448 F. & A.M. Bro George A McAnn was one of

three featured speakers during Temple’s
Friend to Friend Bring a Friend evening. W: Bro E. Allen
Kelly provided the attendees with infor-
mation about our Fraternity and spoke
of the numerous recognizable men in
Masonry . R: W: Clyde Strout-DDGM
1st District and Bro McAnn talked about
the several philanthropies Masonry sup-
ports through its generosity.

Bro George McAnn addressing the crowd.

PITKIN #338 F. & A.M.

Newly Raised Mason
W: Bro Elis Yeley, with the assis-
tance from members of Pitkin Lodge,
recently raised his son-in-law. Bro
Jessie R James is our newest member
and brings the total membership of the
Lodge to 95. W: Bro Jerry W Deters-
Chairman of the Permanent Committee
on Work indicated that Bro James will L:R - Jessie R James, W: Bro Elis H Yeley and
W: C. Jerry Stokes-WM
qualify for a Certificate of Proficiency
EAST GATE #452 F. & A.M.
Friend to Friend
After a catered meal by Terry Wilson-
JW, W: Bro Ernest Easterly III spoke on
the history of our craft in Louisiana. The
photo at right shows Riley Furr, Greg
Hebert, Sandy Zwez, Richard Zwez,
Kristopher Easterly, Steve Kemp &
Ernest Easterly.
18
DERIDDER #271 F. & A.M.
Membership Certificate Night

Pictured L:R - Richard D Maattala-Secretary, George Fisher, Gary W Ducote-JW, Bonnie Lee
Smith and Howard Dean.
One of the largest crowds in recent history was present at the DeRidder Masonic
Lodge to present awards to its 25 and 50 year members. Members and guests en-
joyed a steak dinner prior to the presentation of awards.
Presenting the awards was the R: W: Jules F. Webb, Deputy Grand Master and
W: Elmer L. Edwards, Worshipful Master of the Lodge. Receiving 50 Year Awards
were Bonnie Lee Smith, Howard Dean, Irvin Shirley, Joseph Carter, and Bolivar
Bishop. Receiving 25 year awards were Richard Maattala, George Fisher, Gary
Ducote, and James Branch.
Not all recipients of the awards were able to attend. Zack Major, the grandson
of long-time Sheriff Bolivar Bishop accepted the award for his grandfather.
DeRidder Masonic Lodge #271 F.& A.M. was organized in 1901, and meets on
the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30PM.

19
 The gift that keeps giving...Forever
HOW YOU CAN ESTABLISH A PERSONAL ENDOW-
MENT EMBLAZONED IN YOUR NAME AND CREATE
AN
EVERLASTING LEGACY GIFT TO INSURE THE WORK
OF YOUR GRAND LODGE
The Grand Lodge’s Endowment which economically has insured its
stability has come from caring brothers’ gifts, which allows for effective
annual contributions, gifts of love and affection in perpetuity or forever.

This can be a relatively easy way to ensure the future of your Fraternity
and as a personal reward, reduce your taxes on your personal estate.

You can even specify the charity you wish to benefit or create a special
endowed fund in your name or in the memory of a loved one or special
brother who meant a great deal to your life.

You have the option to use several efficient vehicles such as an Annuity,
Trust, Charitable Gift Annuity, Testamentary Trust, etc. to accomplish
your personal objective.

As an example, you may include a bequest to your Grand Lodge in your will
or simply designate your Brotherhood as a beneficiary of your retirement fund.
Only after your death such a bequest or designation would generate a 5% annual
distribution, as represented in this table and would continue your thoughtful an-
nual contributions and support forever.
We will be happy to provide you or your attorney with sample language.

With a Bequest You can perpetuate an

Of at Least: Annual Never Ending Gift of:
$ 25,000 $1,250
50,000 2,500
75,000 3,750
125,000 6,250

Once established your name or the name of your special designee will be cast
in bronze and permanently displayed at your Grand Lodge
For more information, contact M: W: Clayton J. Borne, III PGM, Director
of Planned Giving at (504) 834-0274 or email: chipborne43@aol.com

20
SLIDELL #311 F. & AM
Honesty & Integrity Awards

Slidell Lodge presented Honesty & Integrity Awards to four deserving students.
Pictured above are: R: W: Woody D Bilyeu-Grand Senior Warden, Todd A Gritman-
Northshore High School, Joseph S Summers-Northshore High School, Jeremiah M
Manetta-Slidell High School, Christopher W Tranchina-Slidell High School and
W: Melvin H Bussell-WM.

PICKERING #477 F. & AM

Honesty & Integrity Awards

Honesty & Integrity Awards were presented to two juniors from Pickering High
School. W: Bro Jerry W. Deters and W: Gary R Wilson-WM presented the awards
to Miss Kaylyan and Cody Compton as pictured above. W: Bro Deters-Chairman of
the Permanent Committee on Work also was the featured guest speaker that spoke
of the importance and history of the Honesty & Integrity Awards.
21
ATHENS #136 F. & AM
Certificate Presentation

W: Bro. Kenneth Volentine and W: Bro Alfred

White
The Lodge held a Special Communication to celebrate a 50 year membership
in the Lodge. Over 100 Masons and guests were in attendance at the Lodge Hall
for a ceremony honoring W: Bro Alfred N White, PM. After a brief welcome to all
present and prayer, W: Bro White was conducted west of the Altar for the presenta-
tion. W: Bro. Kenneth Volentine, Jr., PM, shared Bro. White’s Masonic history as
well as other brief facts about his life, including his military service to our country
as a veteran of WWII. All Master Masons gathered on each side of the Altar to
present Bro. White with the Public Grand Honors. After the Brethren were seated,
Bro. White was presented with his 50 Year Membership Certificate, Card, & Pin.
Following the ceremony, the Masons and guests retired to the fellowship room to
enjoy a delicious meal of fried catfish with all the trimmings. A wonderful evening
of good food and wholesome fellowship was enjoyed by all in attendance.

ASHLAND #196 F. & AM

Honesty & Integrity Night

Ashland Lodge recently presented Honesty & Integrity Awards to eight stu-
dents from Saline and Lakeview High Schools. The receipients shown above are
Kelsey Denise Robinson, Amanda Lacey Stewart, Nicholas Shelton Reese, Rachel
Saragusa, Joshua Len Corley, Evan Warren, Thomas Blacke and Tyler McLaren.
R: W: Michael A Watts-DDGM 6th District and W: Thomas W Austin-WM made
the presentations.
22
RAYNE #313 F. & AM
Certificate Presentation

L:R- W: Bro Barney Foreman, W: Bro Walter Bruner, W: Todd Bourque-WM and W: Bro Roland
Rojas
During a Stated Communication, W: Todd J Bourque-WM presented two 50
Year Membership certificates and a 70-Year Certificate to its members. Receiving
50 Year Certificates were W: Bros Roland S Rojas and Barney S Foreman. W: Bro
Foreman was Worshipful Master in 1962 and W: Bro Rojas served during 1963,
1976 and 1977.
Receiving a 70-Year Membership Certificate was W: Bro Walter W Bruner. W:
Bro Bruner was Master of the Lodge in 1941, 1942 and 1956. He is our senior Past
Master. He served as Master when the current lodge building was constructed.
JOPPA #362 F. & AM
Achievement Award
During a Stated Communication
of Joppa Lodge, R: W: Clyde Strout-
DDGM 1st District took the opportunity
to present Junior Past Master W: Bro
Earl R Hancock with the Grand Lodge
Achievement Award for 2007.
W: Bro Hancock set goals for him-
self and the lodge during his year in W: Bro. Earl R Hancock-PM Chaplain and R:
W: Clyde Strout-DDGM 1st District
the East. W: Bro Hancock involved the
Lodge and 1st District in sponsoring the Earl worked tirelessly with new
first Learn to Run 5K Race that raised members and raised their level of pro-
nearly $2000 for the Masonic Learning ficiency to enable them to participate
Center. He also brought an additional during degree work. The Lodge is well
$500 to the charity by having the District equipped with members to fill the line.
volunteer during the annual Firecracker W: Bro Hancock set the Lodge to labor,
5k Run in Shreveport. with excellent results.
23
AJAX #325 F. & AM
Fidelity Award
During Ajax’s annual fish fry, with
approximately 150 in attendance W:
Bro Norman D McFerren and Bro Brian
K Settle-SW took the opportunity to
present a Fidelity Award to one of its W: Bro Norman Mcferren, W: Bro Joyce Berry
members. and Bro Brian Settle-SW
The award was presented to W: Bro Learning Center at Creswell Temple in
Joyce A Berry-PM Secretary who has Shreveport.
been a Master Mason for 56 years. W: The Fidelity Medal was purchased by
Bro Berry, a plural member of Hap W: Troy Wayne Campbell-WM. Sadly,
Arnold #457, has been Master of both W: Campbell was killed on April 11th
Lodges. Joyce is very active in both the before the presentation. Troy served as
1st and 6th Districts. He coordinates Msater for 4 months and his passing
support for the 1st District Masonic is a great loss for the Lodge and the
MILLERTON #245 F. & AM
Membership Certificates
Millerton Lodge in Haynesville,
presented 50 Year Membership Certifi-
cates to three of its members. Receiving
the awards were Bro Hugh Columbus
Hardin, Paul Ashbel Newell and W: Bro
Bobby Maxwell Ware-PM Secretary.
R: W: Kenneth L Volentine, Jr.-
DDGM 2nd District made the presen- L:R- Bro Hugh Hardin, R: W: Kenneth Vo-
tationsand spoke about the dedicated lentine-DDGM and W: Bro Bobby Ware. (Not
pictured Bro Paul Newell)
service to Masonry by these three breth-
8th MASONIC DISTRICT
Awards & Presentations
During the District meeting, several
presentations were made. W: George M
Glover-PM WM presented W: Bro Ben-
nie J Cahanin with is Past DDGM apron.
M:W: Roy B Tuck-PGM Grand Secre-
tary presented with a Gold Certificate of
Proficiency to W: Bro Gerald H Houston
of Rosepine Lodge. H D Anderson
Lodge was presented with the Travel-
ing Gavel for having the most members
present during the District’s meeting. W: W: Bro Bennie J Cahanin, Past DDGM for the
John W Walker-WM accepted the award 8th District poses with W: George M Glover-WM
of the 8th Mastonic District
on behalf of his Lodge.
24
CENTER #244 F. & AM
Honesty & Integrity Award

L:R- Alex Billings, Megan Tanner, W: John Sumrall-WM, Lauren O’Quin and Lane Turner

W: John W Sumrall, Jr.-WM welcomed the large gathering to the Lodge’s

annual Honesty & Integrity Award program. The four recipients were asked to
select a person well known to them to introduce and speak on their behalf. Each of
these speakers spoke of the outstanding merits and achievements their respective
students had attained.
Major Rick Fredieu, Bogalusa High School ROTC Director introduced Lauren
O’Quin, daughter of James and Leslie Rabom. John Matthews introduced Hil-
lary Megan Tanner and Tristan Lane Tanner, son and daughter of Bobby and Lisa
Turner. Alex Chandler Billings, son of Duane and Freda Billins was introduced
by Joey Melancon.
The guest speaker was Rev Ed Jenkins who spoke to the students about continu-
ing to live their lives in the manner that brought them to the awards this evening.
W: Sumrall presented each student with a plaque from the Lodge as well as an
award from the Bogalusa Mayor’s office. W: Bro William D “Mack” McGehee-
Mayor of Bogalusa assisted in the presentations.
The members, visitors and guests enjoyed a meal that was catered by Ina Claire,
George and Susan Seal. The tables overflowed with smoked chicken, baby-back
ribs, sausage, baked beans, potato salad, hot rolls and banana pudding.
The invoation was given by W: Bro Carl W Jarrell followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance led by W: John Sumrall.

25
MILLERTON #245 F. & AM
Honesty & Integrity Award
The Lodge presented Honesty & Integrity Awards to four students from our
local high schools. Phillip Cole and Haley Murray were recipients from Claiborne
Academy. Hunter Bower and Shelby Harper were the recipients from Haynesville
High. The guest speaker for the evening was Bro Wayne King, Superintendent
of Claiborne Parish Schools. Bro King and W: Sidney Thomas Garrett, PM-WM
presented the students with their certificates and gifts from the Lodge.

L:R Bro Wayne King, Phillip Cole, Haley Murray, Hunter Bower, Shelby Harper and W: Sidney T
Garrett-WM

GARDNER #482 F. & AM

Character & Citizenship Awards

L-R: John Brady, Sydney Hernandez, Robert Bullard, Lauren Richerson, William Dunn, Alison
Barton, Mark Wood, M: W: Lloyd E Hennigan, Jr. GM, Kyle Feazell, Lakin Thompson, Ronald
Barton, Sarah Swain, Wesley Thevenot, Britanie Wilson, Chase Powell and Caitan Thomas

story continued on next page

26
Character & Citizenship Awards
continued:
Each year, Character and Citizenship Awards are given to graduating high school
seniors who meet the criteria established by the Gardner Masonic Lodge. The awards
are for all the commendable virtues that make a good citizen. This criteria includes
church activities, community work and leadership skills in school. the awards are
given based on recommendations from the local churches. Each award consists of
a framed certificate and U.S. Savings Bond.
The 2008 program recognized fifteen high school seniors as pictured on page
26. The evening began with the Rev James Sample and W: Wayne E Harness, Jr.
WM welcoming the large gathering in attendance. W: Bro S. O. “Pete” Brawner
provided the introductions of our recipients and introduced M: W: Lloyd E. Hen-
nigan, Jr. Grand Master, the guest speaker. The presentations were made by M:
W: Hennigan, GM and W: Harness, WM. The Grand Master spoke about the
individual achievements of each student and their importance to the future of our
culture, freedoms and liberties.
St. JAMES #47 F. & AM
Honesty & Integrity Award

L:R W: William E. “Mac” Little-WM, Laurel Morgan, David Weldon, Matthew Foval W: Bro Adib
A Shahla and W: Bro Mark J Paxton Honesty & Integrity Committee members.
St. James held its annual Honesty and Integrity Awards to recognize outstanding
high school graduating seniors at an open dinner meeting. The students selected
were Laurel Morgan from The Dunham School, and Matthew Foval and David
Weldon, both from Parkview Baptist School.
Laurel is the daughter of Reece and Marsha Morgan and the granddaughter of
Bro Gerard and Selma Ruth. David is the son of Charles and Brenda Weldon; Da-
vid is the son of Karen Gudino. All of the recipients are active in their respective
church youth programs as well as school athletic programs and many community
projects.
The Lodge presented the students with Honesty & Integrity Certificates, jewels
and a large monetary award.
27
PITKIN #338 F. & A.M.
Firefighter/Police Night
Pitkin Lodge hosted the annual Fire-
fighters and Police Night. The Lodge
served over 100 visitors and guests a
delicious dinner. After the meal every-
one repaired to the Lodge Room where
the honored guests were introduced and
welcomed. Sam Craft, Sheriff of Ver-
non Parish was the evening’s keynote
speaker. Sheriff Craft thanked each
public servant for their many contribu-
tions to the communities they serve for L:R Sheriff Sam Craft and W: C Jerry Stokes-
a job well done. WM

GERMANIA #46 F. & A.M.

Grand Master’s Relay

The Grand Master’s Relay Runners for Special Olympics ended their 2008 run at
Germania Lodge #46 on June 7. Runners and walkers all enjoyed refreshments and
collected hundreds of dollars for the cause from many of the 16th district lodges.
The route took them through Mid City, New Orleans past the Masonic Cemetery
where they greeted members of Perfect Union #1 who were working on the restora-
tion of their Masonic Burial Monument. After the run refreshments were enjoyed
by all. Pictured above are L:R (front row): Bros Nolan Pansano, Eddie Wellmann,
Tony Radosti, Germania’s custodian Ken Cox. L:R (back row) Wilson Revelle,
Klaus Kueck, Al Bello, Milton Scarbrough, and Andy Mims.
28
St. JAMES #47 F. & A.M.
Holy Land Pilgrimage

L:R Joe Richard, Past Commander; Adib Shahla, Commander; Reverend Hammett; Donald Park,
Past Grand Commander; and William Mollere, Past Commander.
Reverend Mike Hammett, Associate Pastor, First United Methodist Church,
presented a talk and showed pictures of his Holy Land Pilgrimage to members and
guests at an open dinner meeting of St. James Lodge No. 47 and Downtown York
Rite Bodies. The February 2008 trip was sponsored by Plains Commandery No. 11
and the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.
Rev. Mike is a member of Hope Lodge No. 145 in Lafayette, LA and attends East
Gate Lodge No. 452.
The above picture shows a souvenir Jerusalem Cross, carved from native olive
wood, being presented as appreciation to Plains Commandery Knights Templar.
H D ANDERSON #320F. & A.M.
100th Anniversary
H D Anderson celebrated 100 years
in existance in May. The Lodge was
organized as Noble Lodge in March of
1907. It was chartered in February 1908.
The name of the Lodge was changed to
H D Anderson in August of 1994. Bro
Anderson was a charter and founding
member of the lodge who donated the
L:R M:W: Lloyd Hennigan, GM, W: John W
land and provided the finanical backing Walker, WM and Betty Walker
to construct the original building. that enjoyed a catfish meal and fellow-
M: W: Lloyd E Hennigan, Jr., GM ship. The Grand Master was accompa-
and M: W: Bro Roy B Tuck, PGM- nied by several members of his Official
Grand Secretary were the featured Family. City and Parish officials were
speakers. There were over 100 mem- also in attendance to help the Lodge
bers, visitors and guests in attendance celebrate.
29
TEMPLE #448 F. & A.M.
School Dedications
Temple Lodge hosted the Grand
Lodge for an Emergent Communication
for the purpose of laying plaques at the
new administration wing of Bossier
Elementary and at the new W. T. Lewis
Elementary School.
Ms. Cathleen Johnson, Principal of
Bossier Elementary and Ms. Janiene
Batchelor, Principal of W. T. Lewis
M: W: Lloyd Hennigan-GM and Ms. Cathleen
invited members of their staff, school Johnson Principal Bossier Elementary
board officials and state and parish of-
ficals to their respective schools.
M: W: Lloyd E Hennigan, Jr.-GM,
was assisted by M: W: Bro Roy B Tuck-
PGM Grand Secretary, R: W: Woody D
Bilyeu- GSW, R: W: B. J. Guillot-GJW,
R: W: Clyde Strout-DDGM 1st District,
M: W: Roy B. Delaney-PGM, M: W:
S. Bruce Easterly, PGM, W: Thomas
P. Brown-Grand Chaplain, W: Frank
N. DuTreil, Jr.-Grand Marshal, W: H.
Edward Durham-Grand Senior Deacon,
W: Gary L. Gribble-Associate Grand M: W: Hennigan-GM and Ms. Lisa Burns, As-
Photographer. sistant Principal W T Lewis Elementary
The architects for the two proj- tor, Eddy Presley-School Board mem-
ects were in attendance as were Ken ber, Bill Kostelka-President of Bossier
Kruithof-Bossier Parish School Super- School Board and State Representatives
intendent, Keith Norwood-Director of Jane Smith and Henry Burns. Between
Planning & Purchasing, Bill Altimus- ceremonies, Temple Lodge provide
Bossier Parish Police Jury Administra- lunch.
EAST GATE #452 F. & A.M.
Blood Drive
The Lodge hosted a Metro Area
blood drive to benefit OLOL Hospital.
Thirty-three pints were donated and the
Lodge provided po-boy dinners. A draw-
ing for a $50 Wal-Mart gift certificate
was won by Ms. Carol Hoyt.
L:R W: Steve Kemp-WM, Steven Wilkerson,
Sally Pace, Lee Pickett, Kevin Busche, Brock
Holtzchan and Ronnie Walker
30
NORTHSHORE MC
The Sturgis Museum has put our
patch in their display for 2 years. As
shown in the picture below, the North-
shore ‘colors’ are exhibited with eight
other motorcycle chapters.

If you are interested in becoming a

member of Louisiana Mason Motor-
cycle Chapter or start one in your area,
contact Tony Pohlmann:
tonypohlmann@bellsouth.net
or
Dale Quigley:
dalequigley@charter.net

HAUGHTON #95 F. & A.M.

Plaque Ceremony
The expansion of Haughton
High School’s classroom wing was
completed.
In addition to eight science labs and six-
teen other classrooms, a new gymnasi-
um, cafeteria expansion and renovation
work was provided by the recent bond
issue. Haughton Lodge sponsored the
cost of the plaque and hosted the Grand
Lodge’s Emergent Communication for M: W: Hennigan-GM and W: Johnny C Byrd-
the plaque ceremonies. WM at Haughton High School
M:W: Lloyd E Hennigan, Jr.-GM Grand Sword Bearer, M:W: Bro Ballard
was assisted by M:W: Roy B Tuck-
L Smith-PGM and an Associate Grand
PGM Grand Secretary, R:W: Woody D
Bilyeu-GSW, R:W: B J Guillot-GJW, Photographer.
R:W: Clyde Strout-DDGM 1st District, W: Johnny Byrd-WM of Haughton
W: Thomas P Brown-Grand Chaplain, coordinated the ceremony to coinside
W: H Edward Durham-GSD, W: James with the Lodge Bring a Friend Night that
E Steen-GJD, W: C Edward Collins- was held later the same evening.
31
1st MASONIC DISTRICT
Learning Center Graduation
Joppa Lodge hosted the District’s
annual Learning Center Graduation. Of
the 13 students that have completed their
dyslexia classes, 12 were able to attend
the ceremonies. W: Joel T Haston-WM
welcomed the 113 members, visitors
and guest and then turned the evening
program over to M: W: Roy B Delaney- Our Teachers L:R Rosemary Hitchens, Betty
PGM. Wheeler, Sandra Hooper, Jenny Hicks, Cindy
M:W: Delaney spoke of his personal Braswell and Shirley St. John
relationships with the graduates and ex-
pressed how each had grown in several
areas, especially their self esteem. Roy
thanked the parents and care givers for
their commitment of 2 years so that we
could assist their children. M: W: Dela-
ney thanked the District for their tireless
fund raising and dedication to the

Group photo of the parents, teachers and students.

program. Roy said that the District’s efforts and success doesn’t go unnoticed at
the Grand Lodge.
The teachers spoke of their respective students progress and then allowed the
student to address the gathering with their stories. story continued on next page
32
Learning Center Graduation
continued:
The parents were given an opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings.
Several parents gave heartfelt testimonies in appreciation of our charity. Bro Carl
and Sandy Greig, grandparents of Tyler Bryant provided the following:
Dear Masons:
There is no way to express our thankfulness for your Gift of Knowledge. This is truly
the ‘gift that keeps on giving”! The benefits of Tyler’s dyslexia schooling have already made
a difference in his ability to learn and will continue to give him the opportunity to advance
for the remainder of his life
When Tyler completed third grad in the Spring of 2006, he scored a 15% on the Read-
ing/Language portion of his iLEAP tests. In other words, he scored better than only 15%
of the students taking the exam nationwide. He began classes at the Masonic Learning
Center in Bossier City in August of 2006 and when the March 2007 LEAP test was given,
he scored 45%. Just today I received the results of his 2008 iLeap test-and he scored 74%
on the Reading/Language portion. I think that this speaks volumes about the success of
your program. Thank you so much for caring about these children, and for giving them a
chance to lead a productive life. There is no way that I can repay your gift, but all of you
will be in my prayers of praise-for this was an answer to prayer!
Forever in your debt,
Carl and Sandy Greig

The review of applicants was just completed for the Dyslexia classes that are
about to start. There were enough children accepted into the program to fill seven
classes here in the Shreveport/Bossier area. Unfortunately, we only have space for
six classrooms. The good news, however, is that none of the children were turned
away. Thanks to some careful planning and willing teachers, the size of each new
class was increased to accommodate all of the children. Our goal is not to simply
sustain our program but to support its continued growth.

EAST GATE #452 F. & A.M.

Charity Night
The Lodge hosted a Masonic Chari-
ties presentation with W: Bro Carle
Jackson acting as MofC. W: Bro Earl
Dawson, PM St. Albans #28 was in-
troduced and spoke of the A.B.L.E.
Kids Foundation, Knights Templar Eye
Foundation, Cardiovascular Research L:R Front Row Bill Atkinson, Nicholas Easterly,
and the Dyslexia Training program. Danielle Wyatt, W: Steve Kemp-WM, Riley Furr
Bro Nicholas Easterly provided and Vernon Dawson Back Row: Carles Jackson
and Larry Moore
deMolay contributions to the various
charities and W: Bro Larry Moore spoke
on the Youth Foundation of Louisiana. caused her to need a wheelchair. With the
Ms Danielle Wyatt, who was a Shrine assistance of W: Bro Bill Atkinson Ms.
orthopedic patient stricken with polio, Wyatte was able to attend and provide
had serveral surgeries that enabled her a presentation on the Shrine Hospital
to walk for several years. Post polio has Foundation.
33
WAGNER CHAPTER #111 OES
Membership Certificates
The District Deputy Grand Ma-
tron made her visit during a meeting
of Wagner Chapter #111, located in
Springhill. During this meeting, Viola
Barnard-DDGM presented Certificates L:R Front Row Elizabeth Burch, Mary Halter-
of Longevity to Elizabeth Burch (67 man and P S Phillips. Back Row Joyce Hatch
years), Mary Halterman (63 years) and PM/WM and Viola Barnard, PM/DDGM
P S Phillips (62 years).

W H BOOTH #380 F. & A.M.

Special Presentations
The Lodge enjoyed a special pre-
sentation by Nelson Ball, a master
craftsman who enjoys making unique
creations that incorporate rustic natural
materials into beautiful pieces of art. He
is from Natchitoches and is a long time
close friend of W: Keith Tindell-WM.
Nelson brought his relief carving
tools with him and gave a hands on
demonstration of his techniques. He
pulled out a beautiful black walnut W.H.
Booth Lodge plaque, complete with the
square and compasses. Nelson Ball displaying plaque he made during
During another meeting the Lodge his demonstration.
was honored to have Mike and Melissa
Erlund as our guests. Mike and Melissa
are members of The Vikings - North
America. They provided a brief history
of the Viking culture and with explana-
tions and demonstrations of the daily
way of life of a Viking.
Metal was used not only for trading,
but also for armor, weapons, jewelry,
tools, clothing items, etc. They dis-
played many of the weapons that the
Vikings would have used, as well as
several examples of Viking armor.
Melissa and Mike Erlund demonstrating an-
Mike and Melissa demonstrated cient weapons of the Vikings.
how wool was spun, metals were cast
for coins and jewelry using clay and
soapstone.
34
SQUARE & COMPASS #417 F. & A.M.
Kid Safety Fair
Bro Timothy T Tully, a Certified
Kid Safety Agent for the State, made a
suggestion to host a Kid Safety Fair as
a means for community involvement.
Little did we know that how that sug-
gestion would impact the Lodge.
Bro Tully along with Bros Robert
Pastor-SW and Martin Short were ap-
pointed to the committee to make the
project come to fruition and each had
specific functions to arrange. Sponsors,
exhibitors and physical logistics had to
be addressed.
As the committee worked on each
leg, it became apparent that the simple
fair was growing. Donations were filling
the coffers with most of the companies
contacted wanting to participate by
also wanting to be exhibitors. Commit-
ments were received from the Police
and Fire Departments, FBI, Shriners,
Tulane and Ochsner Hospitals and Rick
Weems School of Martial Arts. The city
of Kenner provided Kenner’s Pavilion
for the location.
Advertising was provided by Chan-
nel 4, local radio stations and our
EAST GATE #452 F. & A.M.
Scottish Rite Presentation
L:R W: Bro Charles R Peabody-PM Treasurer,
W: Steven A Kemp-WM, W: Bro Carle L Jackson,
W: Bro David M Wallace-PM Amite City #175,
Krsitopher S Easterly-SW
newspapers. Even with all of the efforts,
our concern was whether people would
attend our fair.
The Lodge planned (hoped) for 500
and had food for 1000. The turnout was
over 2000 and the food was gone in
the first hour and a half. People stayed
until it was time to close. Kenner City
Council members, Police Chief, Fire
Chief and the Mayor, Honorable Ed
Muniz, were in attendance. The Mayor
proclaimed the day as Kid Safety Fair
day with special recognition to the
members of the Lodge.
Take the step; get out into the public;
put on a fair, raise money for a cause;
support your local military, fire and
police departments. We make the world
better and happier for our having lived
L:R Front Row Terry Miller, George Rabb, Jr.
Louis Caruso-PGM, Melvin Cain Back Row: Tim
Tully, Chris Dunn, Robert Pastor, James Mar-
tin, Rudy Kincke, Burford Johns-WM, Delbert
LeBlanc, Darrenn Hart
The Lodge presented a history of
the Scottish Rite Consistory in Baton
Rouge along with the establishment of
the Learning Center.
W: Steve Kemp-WM presented a
monetary donation from the Lodge to
the Scottish Rite Learning Center. W:
Bro David Wallace, a Board Member
for the Center, accepted the donation
on its behalf.
The service provided by the Center
to pre-school children with speech dis-
abilities is free to qualified applicants.
35
36
M: W: Thomas B McIntosh, Jr
from page 9:
“I remember him coming into the room on Christmas morning in a Santa
suit and breaking out into a dance... to the great delight of his grandchildren
and to the shock of everyone else!”

“He had a gift for making other people comfortable. He could relate to
people from any circumstance, befriending and socializing with people from
all backgrounds.”

“Many people have related stories to me of instances when he helped others

during times of personal crisis. He never sought nor accepted acknowledge-
ment for his assistance, but enjoyed quietly supporting people and organiza-
tions that touched his heart.”

M: W: Thomas B. McIntosh, Jr. PGM went to his final reward on March 11,
2000, just two weeks before his 74th birthday. He was laid to eternal rest in Metai-
rie Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Sybil Vaughn McIntosh; his sister
Anne Marion, son Tommy III, wife Christina and grandson Zachary McIntosh;
daughters Jeanie Kuhn, husband Kenneth and grandchildren Elliott and Samantha;
Kim Pretus, husband Ralph and grandchildren Lisa, Jonathan and Brian; Terry
McIntosh-Lawson and husband Christopher and a stepson Rickey Bruce.
I remember trips to the Canal Blvd home and spending weekends there. My
Mom and Miss Betty visiting in the kitchen (cooking stuffed bell peppers), Dad
and Tom holding court in the family room and kids everywhere. There was sail-
ing on the lake and attending Sugar Bowl games at Tulane stadium. When I was
about 6 years old, I had my first experience with New Orleans Mardi-Gras riding
on truck floats with the McIntosh family. This was an annual gathering of the two
families that was repeated for many years. I remember Tom’s smile, sparkling eyes
and boistrous laugh. I also remember he spoke in a quiet tone, with authority and
there was never a need to raise his voice. He loved his family and they were his
focus when he was home. On numerous occasions he even tolerated a shy skinny
kid from Baton Rouge invading his peace.

37
Masonic Penalties
from page 11:
likely to recur when similar situations arise, especially if those concepts serve
a useful purpose. It is therefore worthwhile to investigate the purposes that the
penalties associated with Freemasonry might serve.
The first point to be dealt with is that the actual penalties that may be inflicted
upon a Mason by his brothers, which is to say the organized structure of the Craft
are those of reprimand (also called admonition), suspension, and expulsion, and no
others. This information is clearly stated in monitors. In the Pennsylvania Grand
Jurisdiction, for example, it is these penalties that now are identified to the candi-
date when he comes under obligation. The Morgan Affair notwithstanding, there
are no authentic records of other penalties being exacted for unMasonic conduct.
Until the recent changes, to continue with the Pennsylvania example, it was made
clear to the candidate that the penalties described were only symbolic. Under these
circumstances, it cannot have been concern for the candidate’s state of mind that
led to the change, since it was one of form rather than substance. Discreet inqui-
ries elicited the information that it was pressure from outside organizations that
motivated these alterations in the ritual.
This should be a matter of concern for all Masons. The historical degrees of
the Scottish and York Rites caution us more than once of the dangers to free men
of the influence of groups not organized around principles of freedom. Besides
the threats to the Craft posed by the numerous totalitarian regimes of the world—
threats we are probably aware of and prepared to face—there is within our own
free country a developing adversary attitude towards a free-thinking and selective
organization such as ours.
For example, Masonic lodges are no longer welcome on military bases because
they are selective of membership—a far cry from the time of George Washington,
when the traveling lodge played a vital role in the morale of the soldier. A misguided
spirit of “egalitarianism” has subordinated the rights of free assembly for individuals
when charges of discrimination are brought. In recent Senate confirmation hearings
for an appellate judge, the attempt was made to consider Masonic membership a
disqualifying element for public service, no matter the long history of service by
Freemasons in all branches of the Federal and state governments. Given these
circumstances, it seems particularly unwise at this time to make accomodations
to the demands of outside organizations for changes in the ritual; this creates a
precedent for other alterations that would undermine our landmarks and perhaps
threaten the very existence of the Fraternity.
Moving on from the matter of why the changes may be taking place, we turn
to the Masonic purposes that the penalties, symbolic though they are, may serve.
As we have noted, the penalties being discussed may not be inflicted on a Mason
by his brothers. Indeed, the language and nature of the obligation shows this. A
Mason’s obligation is an undertaking between him and Almighty God, not a con-
tract between him and the Lodge or any other group of men. This is why such an
obligation cannot be laid aside—it is not in the power of the Master of the Lodge,
continued next page
38
Masonic Penalties
from page 38:
nor of any man, to dissolve such an undertaking. Thus we see that the penalties
are invoked by the candidate upon himself, freely and voluntarily, as a reminder
of the serious and weighty nature of his obligations. A child may “cross my heart
and hope to die” without being taken seriously, but a mature adult, and we consider
no others for Masonic membership, should understand clearly that an obligation
falsely sworn before God is an offense against the Third Commandment and merits
severe consequences. In the legendary history of the Craft, although for a different
offense, certain craftsmen invoked upon themselves just such punishments as we
here allude to. Only after declaring themselves liable to such penalties were they
subjected to them.
Turning from legendary history to more authentically recorded events, it is
worthwhile to note that the penalty of death has often been inflicted upon Masons
by governments and other organizations. Jacques deMolay is merely the example
best-known to most of us, through the recounting of his martyrdom in Masonic
degrees. Within the lifetimes of some of us, many Masons perished under Hitler
for no crime other than that of belonging to an organization that allows each man
to think for himself. Indeed, the Nazis came for the Freemasons well before they
came for the Jews. Tyrants have long understood the threat that an organized group
of free men poses to their rule. The Soviet Union published anti-Masonic literature
in profusion, and Masonry has been suppressed in Iran. Penalties of great severity
belong in our ritual as a reminder that any or all of us may be at some time called
upon to pay the ultimate price for our belief in freedom, as represented by our
membership in the Craft.
Since the symbolic penalties of Masonic obligations serve the purpose of remind-
ing us of the seriousness of our undertakings and of the possible consequences of
membership at the hands of outside organizations, it is with the utmost care that
we should consider modifications to this element of Freemasonry, especially in the
interest of satisfying the objections of an outside group. In the pursuit of more mem-
bers, many suggestions have been made that would alter long-established usages, to
paraphrase Jefferson. Let us never forget that quantity is not a valid substitute for
quality. Better that we should have fewer Masons, and those sincerely committed,
than a large body uncertain of their goals and unsure of their purpose.

This article first appeared in The Scottish Rite Journal (under its former name,
The New Age).

39
The Louisiana Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
FREEMASON P A I D
P.O. BOX 12357 Baton Rouge, LA
Permit No. 920
ALEXANDRIA, LA 71315-2357

2008-09 OFFICERS
Lloyd E. Hennigan, Jr., Grand Master
Jules F. “Jeff” Webb, Jr., Deputy Grand Master
Woody D. Bilyeu, Grand Senior Warden
Beverly J. “Bev” Guillot, Grand Junior Warden
A. Ray McLaurin, Grand Treasurer
James M. Walley, P.G.M., Grand Treasurer “Emeritus”
Roy B. Tuck, P.G.M., Grand Secretary
Thomas P. Brown, Grand Chaplain
Frank N. DuTreil, Jr., Grand Marshal
H. Edward Durham, Grand Senior Deacon
James E. Steen, Grand Junior Deacon
Joseph S. Monaghan, Jr., Grand Sword Bearer
S. Scott O’Pry, Grand Pursuivant
C. Edward Collins, Grand Standard Bearer
Earl J. Durand, Grand Tyler
Willey G. Bell, III, Grand Photographer
Dr. Eric C. Hahn, Grand Organist
I.C. Turnley, Jr., M.D., P.G.M., Grand Physician