(An excerpt from Mackey’s Encyclopedia of Freemasonry)

Adjournment. C.W.Moore (Freemasons’ Mag., xii., p. 290) says: “We suppose it to be generally conceded that Lodges cannot properly be adjourned. It has been so decided by a large proportion of the Grand Lodges in America, and tacitly, at least, concurred in by all. We are not aware that there is a dissenting voice among them. It is, therefore, safe to assume that the settled policy is against adjournment.” The reason which he assigns for this rule is that adjournment is a method used only in deliberative bodies, such as legislatures and courts, and as Lodges do not partake of either of these, adjournments are not applicable to them. The rule which Bro. Moore lays down is undoubtedly correct, but the reason which he assigns for is not sufficient. If a Lodge were permitted to adjourn by a vote of the majority of its members, the control of the labor would be placed in their hands. But according to the whole spirit of the Masonic system, the Master alone controls and directs the hours of labor. In the 5th of the Old Charges, approved in 1722, it is declared that “All Masons shall meekly receive their Wages without murmuring or mutiny, and not desert the Master till the Lord’s work is finish’d.” Now as the Master alone can know when “the work is finished”, the selection of the time of closing must be vested in him. He is the sole judge of the proper period at which the labors of the Lodge should be terminated, and may suspend business even in the middle of a debate, if he supposes that it is expedient to close the Lodge. Hence no motion for adjournment can ever be admitted in a Masonic Lodge. Such a motion would be an interference with the prerogative of the Master, and could not therefore be entertained.

Greeting my Brothers.

Well, my year as the Grand Chaplain has come to an end with the recent conclusion of Grand Lodge, held in Duluth April 11-12. It was an honor and a privilege to serve the 16,500 brothers in Minnesota Masonry and truly an experience I will cherish and remember always. My thanks go to MWB Dr. Raymond G. Christensen for allowing me to be part of his Grand Line.

Last weekend, April 11-12, I was re-installed for my 3rd term as the Metro East Area Deputy Grand Master. An honor and a Masonic job that I really enjoy doing. Having the opportunity to work with and lead the 6 District Reps and 21 lodges in the Metro East is great fun and very rewarding. There are many challenges in the Metro East, and Masonry in Minnesota, but these challenges can be over come by facing them head on and attacking the issues directly. Membership, Leadership, and Mentoring are all issues directly effecting every lodge in the Metro East. Some, if not most of the challenges facing us today can be over come by each and everyone of us taking a good hard look in the mirror and asking one simple question, “am I doing everything I can to support Masonry and my lodge?” I doubt there are very many of us that can answer that question with a “yes”. Just coming to a stated meeting, joining your brothers at a dinner/banquet, coming with to a fishing trip, a ball game, a degree, or any other event we have going, will help make that program just a little better. My brothers, your presence is missed. Your fellowship is missed and more importantly, your support is missed. Wouldn’t you please check the calendar listed above and pick just one event you’d like to come and support your officers with. They need your fellowship and miss you.

Fraternally yours,
WB Kenneth White – Secretary
Metro East Area Deputy Grand Master

Brethren,

I want to take a moment to thank all of the brothers of Montgomery Lodge for all of the hard work they have put into degrees and events, and for their overall dedication to our fraternity. It seems these days that time is getting to be something we all have very little of. Yet, the past masters, officers, and brothers of Montgomery are all more than willing to set aside time to help make Montgomery a great lodge to belong to. It makes me proud to be in the East this year and glad to be a member of such a great lodge.

The hard work and dedication to the fraternity so often displayed by our Masonic brothers was very evident at the Table Lodge event on March 28th at 200 East Plato. The Table Lodge was a collective effort by the members of Montgomery, Ancient Landmark, and Macalester lodges to honor and thank outgoing Grand Master Ray Christensen for his year of distinguished service to the Masons of Minnesota. It also served to raise money for the ongoing “Partners For Life” charity which is helping to build and expand the Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota. I am happy to report that the proceeds of the event resulted in a very nice contribution being made to that charity. In addition, a hat was passed around and we were able to make a nice contribution as well to the new DeMolay chapter which was recently formed here in St.Paul. Worshipful Brother Ken White was the MC for the event and did a wonderful job, as always. The evening began with a social hour at 5:30 p.m. and was followed by a delicious dinner with a choice of walleye or pork, cooked to perfection by our very skilled chefs including SD Eric Bishop, WB Ken White (doing double duty), Stewards LC Addison and Shawn Carrick, with assistance provided by the DeMolay. WB Bob Wicke volunteered his services wherever needed. There were about 80 people in attendance and everyone appeared to have had a great time. Grand Master Ray gave a captivating and compelling speech on Masonry and what it has meant in his life. I think everyone came away invigorated by his unique perspective as a doctor and a healer. We plan to make the Table Lodge an annual event at 200 East Plato and I am looking forward to next year with anticipation.

In May we will be honoring the widows of Montgomery brothers who have passed on. We will also celebrate the many contributions these ladies have made in our lives. Traditionally this event was held in the fall but has been moved to the spring, and will be held on Thursday, May 1st. Dinner will be at 6 p.m. with the event beginning at 7 p.m. in our small lodge room. I am hoping for a nice turnout to celebrate and thank the ladies for all their support in our lives and in our Masonic endeavors.

Later in May, the brothers of Montgomery will be going on a fishing trip to Lake Vermillion for some fun and fellowship. We will be staying at the White Eagle Resort on May 30th through June 1st, and have reserved a beautiful large cabin on the lake. We still have room for more brothers on the trip so if you are interested in going contact SW Mark Dreyer or me for details.

On June 19th, the annual Awards/Scholarships Night. Dinner is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. with ceremonies to follow. This is always a nice evening of food and fellowship and a great opportunity to help our Masonic families get a little help with the cost of their children’s higher education. It is also a chance to recognize Masons who have made contributions to the craft over the years.

On June 24th, the brothers of Montgomery have been invited to join the brothers of Ancient Landmark for a night of “St. Paul Saints” outdoor baseball at Midway Stadium. The game is at 7:05 p.m. with tailgating details before the game still being worked out. I have ten tickets available for the very affordable price of $12.00 a ticket. You can call me or come to lodge to reserve a spot at the game.

I am looking forward to seeing all of you in the coming months, as we meet on the level,

Fraternally,

Dave Bergman, Master

Masonic Symbols

The following is reprinted from the Masonic Manual of Minnesota, and is a section of the 3rd lecture of the Master Mason’s Degree.

“The THREE STEPS, usually delineated on the Master’s Carpet, are emblematic of the three principal stages of human life, namely: Youth, Manhood and Age. In YOUTH, as Entered Apprentices, we ought industriously to occupy our minds in the attainment of useful knowledge; in MANHOOD, as Fellow-Crafts, we should apply our knowledge to the discharge of our respective duties to God, our neighbors and ourselves; so that in AGE, as Master Masons, we may enjoy the happy reflections consequent on a well spent life, and die in the hope of a glorious immortality.”

These are powerful images of the lodge membership. Although we quickly move our new initiates through the degrees to that of a Master Mason, still they are the YOUTH of the lodge and have much to learn of Masonic values. Most of us who are actively involved in the doings of the lodge should consider ourselves in the MANHOOD stage, still applying our knowledge and moving forward. This leaves AGE, or our aged members, who we may seldom see but are still supportive of Masonry; and may reflect on their time in the craft when they were learning and applying the tools of the craft.

Dave Seitz, P.M.

Greeting my Brothers.

I recently visited with WB Richard (Dick) Westman and can report that he is in good spirit. WB Dick is not well but is hanging in there. Dick is at the Greeley Nursing Home in Stillwater. 313 Greeley St. Room 344.

I also had a nice conversation today with Edith Keys, the wife of WB Ed Keys. Sadly I must report that both were recently in the hospital. Edith with pneumonia and WB Ed with an irregular heartbeat. Edith told me that Ed is not doing well and is sleeping more than 12 hours per day. Edith told me that last night, Ed woke her and told her he was just visited by some deceased brothers and 2 departed family members. They welcomed him to the other side. Edith said she thought the end may be near for WB Ed.

I’ve heard WB Jim Aurandt’s wife, Shirley is not well and dealing
with Alzheimer’s.

Brothers, please take a moment and say a prayer for those mentioned above. Also, if you know of anyone who is ill, please contact our JW Mark Dreyer, or myself.

Fraternally yours,
WB Kenneth White – Secretary
Grand Chaplain – Grand Lodge of Minnesota A. F. & A. M.
Metro East Area Deputy Grand Master

Greetings brothers,

After what has seemed like an endless cold winter I am glad to be writing about upcoming spring events in the warm weather that is soon to arrive. I am looking forward to the Montgomery Lodge activities we have planned for the coming months and being outdoors once again.

On February 23rd, brothers from Montgomery attended two separate charitable benefits for very worthy causes. WB Bob Johnson’s daughter Bobbi is battling leukemia and a benefit was held at the Arcade VFW for her with a huge turnout at the hall. On behalf of Montgomery Lodge I personally expressed our support and assured WB Bob that Bobbi is in our prayers.

Also, later that night Montgomery brothers attended a benefit for John Easton. John is a very close friend of our Senior Deacon Eric Bishop. Bro. Eric belongs to the Fraternal Order of Police and John is one of his former coworkers and fellow member of the Fraternal Officers Alliance #4 Lodge. John is battling acute myeloid leukemia as well as diabetes and has been in and out of hospitals. The benefit for John also went very well and it was obvious that he was very grateful for the outpouring of support for him. As Master of Montgomery I was glad that I could attend both benefits. I sincerely hope Montgomery Lodge’s contributions can make a difference for both Bobbi and John, and help them on their road to recovery.

On March 6th we put on a Fellowcraft Degree for our new brothers Tim Lloyd and Chad Valentine, with Senior Warden Mark Dreyer presiding in the East. SW Mark did an excellent job, as always. The first lecture was performed by Bro. Shawn Carrick and Bro. Tim Julin, and it was impeccable. WB Greg Deegan did a fine job as well with the staircase lecture. It was a great night of fellowship and fine ritual work at Montgomery and I want to thank all who attended and helped to make it a success.

The Table Lodge (originally scheduled for April 4th) has been moved to March 28th due to a time conflict. Montgomery, Macalester, and Ancient Landmark Lodges will be combining for a festive evening of food and fellow- ship to honor our outgoing Grand Master Ray Christensen. The ladies are also welcome this year. The cost is $20.00 per person, with the proceeds going to “Partners for Life”. Social hour is from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with dinner to follow. This is a great opportunity for us to thank Grand Master Ray for his hard work and dedication in the past year. Contact WB Ken White to reserve a spot for this evening of fellowship.

On April 11th & 12th the Grand Lodge annual meeting will take place in Duluth. I am certain it will not disappoint those who attend. The annual meeting is a great way to meet brothers from lodges around the state and talk about issues affecting all our lodges. The Friday banquet is always enjoyable. If you are intending to go I would urge you to contact WB Ken White a.s.a.p.

Next, on April 15th the Lynnhurst Turkey Dinner will be held at the Zuhrah Shrine Center in Minneapolis. This annual event is the first opportunity for the new Grand Master of Minnesota to speak to the Masons of Minnesota and lay out his vision of Masonry for the upcoming year. A turkey is brought to each table and carved by one of the brothers at the table making it a unique dining experience, and an event that you won’t want to miss. If you intend to go contact WB Ken White for reservations and more details.

Finally, on Saturday April 19th Montgomery Lodge will be putting on the Master Mason’s Degree. The degree will start at 10:30 a.m. with a lunch provided at refreshment. I will be presiding in the East and am looking forward to working with a fine degree team. I expect this to be a great degree for our
newly admitted brothers.

Please note that the fishing trip scheduled for May 30th -June 2nd on Lake Vermillion still has some spots available so contact WB Ken, SW Mark, or me for details on reservations. The cost is $150.00 per person and includes food and lodging.

Fraternally,

Dave Bergman, Master

TABLE LODGE & DINNER

to honor our
MWGM Raymond Christensen

The last hurrah, or should we say HUZZAH!!!!!

Friday, March 28th at the St.Paul Masonic Center, 200 E. Plato Blvd.
Open to Masons, wives, lady friends & other friends

$20 per seat, 100 seats available, all proceeds go to the “Partners for Life” campaign

Social hour 5:30 to 6:30 PM
Dinner 6:30 to 8:00 PM

Choice of Pork Chop or Fish, dinner includes appetizers, salad, desert, etc.

Come join us for the 7 traditional toasts, HUZZAH!! Champagne or non-alcoholic beverage

Hosted by Montgomery, Macalester & Ancient Landmark lodges.

Last years evening was a huge success, Don’t miss this years evening

Greeting my Brothers.

If you don’t mind, I think I will take this little corner of the bulletin every month for my own ramblings and updates.

My sympathy goes out to WB Syd and Judy Schwartz for the recently sudden loss of their daughter in law. Please take a moment and say a prayer for them.

Lodge will be going on a couple fishing trips this year. They are planned for: May 30 – June 2, and Sept 19 – 22. The May trip will be to White Eagle Resort on Lake Vermilion, near Cook, MN. This trip is open to the first 10 brothers who send in the total cost of $150.00 to the secretary. It is open to first come, first served and space is limited.

I would like to congratulate a couple brothers of Montgomery lodge on their elections in the Metro East Masters and Wardens Association. WM Dave on his election as the 1st Vice President, and Elected President was our very own WB Steve Oian. The Masters and Wardens Association brings the 21 lodges of the Metro East together to discuss issues and problems affecting us all as well as hosting 2 Master Mason Degrees through out the year. When you these two brothers take a moment to congratulate them and to also thank them for their time and efforts.

Fraternally yours,
WB Kenneth White – Secretary
Grand Chaplain – Grand Lodge of Minnesota A. F. & A. M.
Metro East Area Deputy Grand Master

“He who has not tasted the bitter, does not understand the sweet”

Greetings brothers,

I am pleased to say that 2008 is off to a good start at Montgomery with four new brothers entering our lodge and becoming part of the fraternity. On January 19th new candidates Richard DeGaynor and Joshua Scott attended the “One Day to Masonry” event in Minneapolis and are now our newest Master Masons. I want to take this opportunity to welcome them and I am looking forward to greeting them and sharing fellowship, food, and fun. On February 7th we put on our first Entered Apprentice degree of the year for candidates Timothy Lloyd and Chad Valentine. Junior Warden Kendall Crosby presided in the East and did a wonderful job as Master for the evening, as did the lecture teams, particularly the 1st section lecture delivered by Bros. Brian Etchieson and Thomas Hoemke. Thanks to everyone who helped with the degree. The evening started out with a delicious ham dinner prepared by our stewards followed by a very nicely done degree. While I sat in the South for the evening I was able to observe and reflect on the fine ritual work we do at Montgomery and I feel privileged to have such a great line of officers following me.

Any brothers who want a chance to polish up on their ritual skills or hear a good speaker on Masonic topics should consider attending one or more of the four Masters and Wardens meetings held this year. All brothers are welcome and encouraged to attend. In past years the second half of the evening consisted of a first, second, third degree, or fourth school of instruction (basics). This year the newly elected president WB Steve Oian will be alternating the educational portion between schools of instruction and guest speakers. The school of instruction is taught by WB Greg Lane who is a custodian of the work for the Grand Lodge and does a great job. Anyone interested in attending can contact WB Steve Oian, WB Ken White, or me for details on dates and locations of the meetings.

I am also happy to report that our new office and store room are both close to being completely set up for our needs. Very soon we will have a computer and printer installed on our new desk, and begin exploring all the ways we can use it to streamline lodge functions. With a few more enhancements our new office will feel just like home to us.

Coming up in March we will conduct a Fellowcraft degree on March 6th. Dinner will be at 6 p.m. with the degree to follow at 7 p.m. Senior Warden Mark Dreyer will be presiding in the East and I know it will be a wonderful night of fellowship and great ritual work. It would be great to see a nice turnout for our newly admitted brothers and to help support our Senior Warden sitting in the East. I am looking forward to seeing all of you and I know it will be a memorable night.

Mark your calendars for April 5th as an evening of fine food and fellowship. That is the night of our annual Table Lodge at 200 E. Plato where Montgomery, Ancient Landmark, and Macalester Lodges will all honor and thank our outgoing Grand Master Ray Christensen for his year of distinguished service to all the Masons in Minnesota. The stewards of our lodges are sure to serve up a fine meal and it should prove to be a great event for all who attend. Every time I get the opportunity to hear our Grand Master Ray speak I am invigorated by his insight, wit, and knowledge of the craft. Listening to him speak is worth the price of admission alone. Anyone interested in attending should contact Senior Warden Mark Dreyer, WB Ken White or me.

April is also the month of the annual Grand Lodge event, to be held in Duluth on April 11-12. Anyone planning to attend who has not yet made hotel reservations, I would urge to call ASAP. The hotel rooms are getting scarce! If you are interested in attending you can call SW Mark Dreyer, WB Ken White or me.

The spring fishing trip to Lake Vermillion May 30- June 1 is on track with 3 open spots still available. The accommodations look to be terrific! The fishing is said to be excellent. And, I am certain it will be a thoroughly enjoyable weekend. The cost is $150.00 per person, which includes three nights lodging and food. Once again, if you can go call SW Mark, WB Ken, or me.

I hope to see you soon,

Fraternally,

Dave Bergman, Master

Initiated: 09/12/1962
Passed: 10/14/1962
Raised: 11/28/1962
Died: 02/24/1926

Our Prayers and thoughts go out to his Family