What a great success Sunday turned out to be. The only downside was, we arrived a little early and had to wait for Senator Susan Collins to arrive. She spoke eloquently, and although the wind blew strongly, the crowd never left, and the “Craftsmen did their work.” All Maine Masons should be proud!
The 3 flags you will see behind the podium flew over Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and the field in Pennsylvania.
Many commented that they have never seen the streets of Freeport lined with so many people. Estimates have been as high as 400 Masons parading down Main Street, the ½ mile from the Lodge to the Monument. I couldn’t help wonder what our Past Master, Wor. Leon Linwood Bean, would have thought as we past his old store at the corner in the Square. We sure were an impressive group.
We were pleased that the Grand Lodge officers who served with me in 2002-2004 were ready and able for another tour of duty and did a wonderful job. Among those doing the work and in the procession were, 5 Past Grand Masters, 2 Active members of Supreme Council, the Grand Commander of Commandery, Illustrious Grand Master of Council, Grand High Priest of Chapter, and Divan members from Kora and Anah Shrines. And probably some dignitaries I have forgotten. Our Grand Master, M.W. W. Louis Greenier, II was able to make the ceremony and joined us at the Monument. I quickly removed my Top Hat in defense of losing my dues card! (Just kidding)
Everyone, on your next visit to Freeport, needs to stop as you enter town from the South, and reflect on this beautiful tribute to those who lost their lives on that dreadful day in September, 2001. We will never forget!
Pictures supplied by Ms. Leslie Webber.
http://www.mainemasonrytoday.com/online/index.php?option=com_phocagallery&view=category&id=1&Itemid=124
On Saturday June 23, 2012 Monument Lodge hosted A. James Ross the new Grand Master of Masons in Maine. Two dozen Masons representing lodges from Danforth and Sherman to Fort Kent were present.
On Saturday, April 21st the new Grand Lodge Administrative Office building was dedicated by M.W. Louis Greenier. Although the sky was cloudy, the rain held off for the ceremony.