Grand Lodge F&AM State of New York
5th Manhattan District
The Traveling Gavel
Click the Picture for More Info
Click the Picture for More Info
Masonic Law
&
Constitutions
&
Constitutions
Walk About
Grand Master's
Address
Address
Click For
District Notice
District Notice
Click For
Short Talk Bulletin
Short Talk Bulletin
Click For Electronic
24in Gauge
24in Gauge
Click for Membership
Retention Program
Retention Program
R:. W:. Ryan Wiggins-Rodriguez District Deputy Grand Master
Click for Masonic
Funeral Service
Funeral Service
FROM THE DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTER
R:. W:. Ryan Wiggins-Rodriguez
Greetings Brothers,
The beginning of this year gave us some difficult news with a number of sad tidings. I wanted to start off by thanking all those brothers who stepped up and offered their condolences, help, and support to those suffering. As a reminder, we are all here as your brothers in the district through good times and bad, so never hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
With that, I wanted to share the attached note we received from the family of Brother Bob Altmann thanking us for the flowers sent on behalf of the District. For the brothers who weren't able to attend, also sharing here the following link that includes our Masonic service which starts about 8 minutes in:
https://www.hdezwebcast.com/video/41552
Also, the funeral is covered with wonderful words from his brother in California and from Doris. The main site is at: https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/robert-altmann
As we looking towards the Spring we are reminded of rebirth and the start of warmer days and shorter nights. I am extremely happy and proud of what our lodges in the District are doing. One recent example was True Craftsman's Chinese New Year Dinner, which was again a great success. Kung Hei Fat Choi, and happy Chinese New Year!
Thank you as well to all the Masters (as well as Past Masters) and Wardens who have been helping to coordinate the upcoming District events!
A few dates to keep in mind are the District Wide Festive Board scheduled for March 18th. This year we decided to move it to a Saturday rather than our regular Monday night to encourage broader participation. Please do join us for what will be a great event!
We are also working on a District happy hour in April (more details to come), as well as finalizing details for Saint John's weekend.
Finally I would also like to share that we are kicking off a GoFundMe campaign in support of the upcoming Battle Within Gala. For each brother that raises over $1,000 from friends, family, brothers, coworkers, etc., he will receive a free ticket to the Gala (estimated value of $250). Here is the link to sign up for the fundraising team so that you can manage and track donations:
SIGN UP
Here is also the link to the main fundraising page as well:
https://gofund.me/fbfc6137
Again, the Gala is scheduled for November 11th, 2023 and a save the date flier will be coming out soon.
Let's close out our Masonic year strong and may the Great Architect of the Universe watch over us all, our families, first responders, and service members here and abroad! Until we meet again my brothers.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
R:.W:. Ryan Alexander Rodriguez-Wiggins
DDGM 5th Manhattan District
FROM THE GRAND SWORD BEARER
R:. W:. James Gregg
Although Masonry is not a religion, there is an undeniable spiritual aspect whose threshold is the Great Light in Masonry; the Holy Bible. We see the role of the Chaplin in our Lodge as a significant and necessary element in Opening and Closing Lodge as well as within each Degree. I thought we would offer a small examination of the Bible verse for the Entered Apprentice. Each degree is framed by a verse and in turn, this verse offers insight to both us and the candidate.
Entered Apprentice Degree
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garments; as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore. Psalms 133
As the candidate is stopped after the initial perambulation, these words are heard. These words, which intend to calm, speak to unity and fellowship: what a pleasure it is to “dwell together in unity” or to be in the presence of a body of men united together in mind and spirit of purpose. This peaceful unity is of utmost importance to Masons as it is the mortar or cement that binds us together as a fraternity.
The next section alludes to the oil running down his beard. Aaron, the elder brother of Moses, and his sons were appointed by God to be the High Priest and ministers of God for the children of Israel. God directed that an “oil of holy ointment” was to be poured upon Aaron and his sons as a blessing prior to their entry as priests into the tabernacle, containing all the holy vessels and the Ark of the Covenant, to minister and pray unto the Lord. This reference therefore alludes to the sacredness of such unity.
Finally, Mount Hermon was known to have copious amounts of humidity, even in the driest weather, which formed on the tents that it appeared as though it had rained the whole night. This precious dew or water provided continuous life giving growth to the plants and animals of the otherwise arid region; hence the allusion to life forevermore
The theme of the Entered Apprentice Degree then is that he is about to enter into a fraternal union with men of good character. This unity of good brethren is so precious that it is comparable to the holy anointing of the High Priest of the ancient Israelites. Further, his association with this fraternal unity promises to enrich his future life just as the dew of Mount Hermon and the mountains of Zion.
Our MDC courses will begin in the new year (probably around March so we align with the latest new candidate progression). All Senior Wardens should also be preparing for our next Master’s Chair course (start thinking about your trestleboard for your year). Finally, your District Leadership is working on an Officer Course focusing on Your Station and Places. This will be in in-person intensive that all Officers (or those looking top become Officers) should attend. More to come as plans start to land for the new year.
Masonic Development Courses:
Our MDC courses will begin in the new year (probably around March so we align with the latest new candidate progression).
For those that completed the course this past year, I will be traveling to your lodge to ensure you receive a certificate and pin.
The Master's Chair:
All Senior Wardens should also be preparing for our next Master’s Chair course (start thinking about your trestle board for your year).
Special Officer Course Coming to your District:
Finally, your District Leadership is working on an Officer Course focusing on Your Station and Places. This will be in in-person intensive that all Officers (or those looking top become Officers) should attend. More to come as plans start to land for the new year.
R:.W:. James William Gregg
Grand Sword Bearer
Fifth Manhattan Masonic District
R:. W:. James Gregg
Although Masonry is not a religion, there is an undeniable spiritual aspect whose threshold is the Great Light in Masonry; the Holy Bible. We see the role of the Chaplin in our Lodge as a significant and necessary element in Opening and Closing Lodge as well as within each Degree. I thought we would offer a small examination of the Bible verse for the Entered Apprentice. Each degree is framed by a verse and in turn, this verse offers insight to both us and the candidate.
Entered Apprentice Degree
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garments; as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore. Psalms 133
As the candidate is stopped after the initial perambulation, these words are heard. These words, which intend to calm, speak to unity and fellowship: what a pleasure it is to “dwell together in unity” or to be in the presence of a body of men united together in mind and spirit of purpose. This peaceful unity is of utmost importance to Masons as it is the mortar or cement that binds us together as a fraternity.
The next section alludes to the oil running down his beard. Aaron, the elder brother of Moses, and his sons were appointed by God to be the High Priest and ministers of God for the children of Israel. God directed that an “oil of holy ointment” was to be poured upon Aaron and his sons as a blessing prior to their entry as priests into the tabernacle, containing all the holy vessels and the Ark of the Covenant, to minister and pray unto the Lord. This reference therefore alludes to the sacredness of such unity.
Finally, Mount Hermon was known to have copious amounts of humidity, even in the driest weather, which formed on the tents that it appeared as though it had rained the whole night. This precious dew or water provided continuous life giving growth to the plants and animals of the otherwise arid region; hence the allusion to life forevermore
The theme of the Entered Apprentice Degree then is that he is about to enter into a fraternal union with men of good character. This unity of good brethren is so precious that it is comparable to the holy anointing of the High Priest of the ancient Israelites. Further, his association with this fraternal unity promises to enrich his future life just as the dew of Mount Hermon and the mountains of Zion.
Our MDC courses will begin in the new year (probably around March so we align with the latest new candidate progression). All Senior Wardens should also be preparing for our next Master’s Chair course (start thinking about your trestleboard for your year). Finally, your District Leadership is working on an Officer Course focusing on Your Station and Places. This will be in in-person intensive that all Officers (or those looking top become Officers) should attend. More to come as plans start to land for the new year.
Masonic Development Courses:
Our MDC courses will begin in the new year (probably around March so we align with the latest new candidate progression).
For those that completed the course this past year, I will be traveling to your lodge to ensure you receive a certificate and pin.
The Master's Chair:
All Senior Wardens should also be preparing for our next Master’s Chair course (start thinking about your trestle board for your year).
Special Officer Course Coming to your District:
Finally, your District Leadership is working on an Officer Course focusing on Your Station and Places. This will be in in-person intensive that all Officers (or those looking top become Officers) should attend. More to come as plans start to land for the new year.
R:.W:. James William Gregg
Grand Sword Bearer
Fifth Manhattan Masonic District
FROM THE ASSISTANT GRAND LECTURERS
V:. W:. Tarantino Smith & V:. W:. Greg Feldman
Greetings Brethren,
Happy New Year Brothers,
As we reflect on the 2022 year and while most people start making new year resolutions. One must stop and think about this annual process of making for non-Masons. I say non-Masons because as Masons we are constantly looking to improve ourselves. Daily traveling away from our rough flaws and working/moving toward making them smooth. But if we did have District Wide New Year’s Resolution for 2023. I would like to suggest that we focus on lifting up newly made Masons and supporting them whenever they attempt Masonic work for the very first time or their first year. And not look an opportunity to tear them down. Yes, it is okay to instruct but be mindful of how we do it. Brotherly Love would be the best way to approach and encourage them. Remember as Masons we are “builders”. “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” -Ernest Hemingway See you in the Quarries My Brothers! Upcoming Events and School of Instructions: *March 9th, 2023 at 7:30pm- The Grand Lectures Convention Work of the Evening: Second Degree Ceremony (first half only) And Middle Chamber Lecture Hosting Lodge: Amity Lodge 323, on the 8th Floor *March 15th, 2023 at 7:30pm- School Of Instruction Work of the Evening: The Middle Chamber Lecture (Study, Learning and Presentation Techniques) Hosting Lodge: True Craftsman 651 Presented by V:. W:. Tarantino Smith *TBD- School of Instruction on Masonic Funeral Ritual* (More information on this will be released soon)
Sincerely and Fraternally
V∴W∴ Bro. Greg Feldman V∴W∴ Bro. Tarantino Smith
516-242-1072 646-298-6252
greg@feldman114.com middlechamber3@gmail.com
V:. W:. Tarantino Smith & V:. W:. Greg Feldman
Greetings Brethren,
Happy New Year Brothers,
As we reflect on the 2022 year and while most people start making new year resolutions. One must stop and think about this annual process of making for non-Masons. I say non-Masons because as Masons we are constantly looking to improve ourselves. Daily traveling away from our rough flaws and working/moving toward making them smooth. But if we did have District Wide New Year’s Resolution for 2023. I would like to suggest that we focus on lifting up newly made Masons and supporting them whenever they attempt Masonic work for the very first time or their first year. And not look an opportunity to tear them down. Yes, it is okay to instruct but be mindful of how we do it. Brotherly Love would be the best way to approach and encourage them. Remember as Masons we are “builders”. “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” -Ernest Hemingway See you in the Quarries My Brothers! Upcoming Events and School of Instructions: *March 9th, 2023 at 7:30pm- The Grand Lectures Convention Work of the Evening: Second Degree Ceremony (first half only) And Middle Chamber Lecture Hosting Lodge: Amity Lodge 323, on the 8th Floor *March 15th, 2023 at 7:30pm- School Of Instruction Work of the Evening: The Middle Chamber Lecture (Study, Learning and Presentation Techniques) Hosting Lodge: True Craftsman 651 Presented by V:. W:. Tarantino Smith *TBD- School of Instruction on Masonic Funeral Ritual* (More information on this will be released soon)
Sincerely and Fraternally
V∴W∴ Bro. Greg Feldman V∴W∴ Bro. Tarantino Smith
516-242-1072 646-298-6252
greg@feldman114.com middlechamber3@gmail.com
FROM THE MASTERS & WARDENS ASSOCIATION
Wor. Richie Yates President
Greetings brethren,
I hope all the brethren and families are in good health and have a great holiday and happy New year, As we move forward into 2023, The District is continuing to Build and prosper, our events and charity work are in full effect and attendance and support is raising. I would like to let everyone know that we had a very successful Toys 4 Tots drive this year, we collected almost $600.00 and about 180 toys, thank you, to all the brethren of the district for making this a success.
The Masters and Wardens Association is working on restructuring leadership, Membership and duties of its members and have a new direction for the 2023 year, The District needs your dedication and support to make this a success. I would like to thank all the Brethren of the district for their continued efforts and dedication to growing our district into one of the best group of Masons and brethren there is.
Our District OLP and DD message websites will continue to promote all of our activities and events, and keep all the brethren informed and up to date on what the district is doing. Please continue to send us your lodge events and support our lodges and district.
Happy Holidays
S&F
W:. Rich Yates
MWA 5th District
917-642-5374
5thmmwa@gmail.com
Wor. Richie Yates President
Greetings brethren,
I hope all the brethren and families are in good health and have a great holiday and happy New year, As we move forward into 2023, The District is continuing to Build and prosper, our events and charity work are in full effect and attendance and support is raising. I would like to let everyone know that we had a very successful Toys 4 Tots drive this year, we collected almost $600.00 and about 180 toys, thank you, to all the brethren of the district for making this a success.
The Masters and Wardens Association is working on restructuring leadership, Membership and duties of its members and have a new direction for the 2023 year, The District needs your dedication and support to make this a success. I would like to thank all the Brethren of the district for their continued efforts and dedication to growing our district into one of the best group of Masons and brethren there is.
Our District OLP and DD message websites will continue to promote all of our activities and events, and keep all the brethren informed and up to date on what the district is doing. Please continue to send us your lodge events and support our lodges and district.
Happy Holidays
S&F
W:. Rich Yates
MWA 5th District
917-642-5374
5thmmwa@gmail.com