november 2023

Greetings from the East, 

As we continue to finish the recovery from the restrictive years of Covid, let us continue to join in harmony to build a better tomorrow. ~ Old West Master, 2023

Dear Fellow Masons & Family,

Let us reflect on an Outstanding Year and Look Ahead to the Future

As we transition from the whimsy of Halloween, with its flickering jack-o'-lanterns, to the festive gratitude of Thanksgiving, where the aroma of turkey fills the air; as we tidy our yards of autumn's fallen leaves and settle in for the season's football games, let us also come together in the spirit of brotherhood. It's a moment to kindle the warmth of our fellowship and contemplate the extraordinary path we've journeyed as one throughout the year.

Highlights of Annual Communication

I am thrilled to report that our recent Annual Communication was not only a grand display of unity and brotherhood but also a historical gathering, reminiscent of the vibrant assemblies of the early 1990s. Over 1,000 Masons, hailing from diverse countries and states, convened in a grand testament to our global fraternity's enduring allure and the strength of our bonds. It was an overwhelming sight to behold, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who participated and made this possible.

French Lodge Exemplification

An exquisite cultural tapestry was woven at the French Lodge Exemplification, where our brethren demonstrated the timeless rituals in the poetic French tongue, reminding us all of the universality and diversity within our ancient craft. It was not merely a ceremony, but an enriching experience that undoubtedly left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it.

Recognition and Achievements

Respect swelled within the hearts of all Southern California Masons when 92-year-old Past Master and still an Inspector Worshipful Sherm Ostrom was bestowed with the Life-time Achievement Award by the Grand Master. This esteemed accolade is a tribute to his unwavering dedication, profound knowledge, and the significant contributions he has made to Masonry. We all aspire to the high standards he sets, and this recognition is richly deserved.

Youth Leadership

It is with immense pride that we acknowledge the leadership and zeal of our youth. Two of the five Youth leaders recognized statewide hail from our own lodge — a testament to the vigor and excellence we foster within our midst. They stand not only as leaders of tomorrow but as inspiring figures today, embodying the virtues we hold dear.

Performance and Progress

Our lodge was called out during the Grand Lodge Annual Communication for our substantial number of degrees conferred this year, a clear indication of our dynamic growth and the fervent quest for knowledge among our brethren. Old West has indeed set a standard to be emulated.

Looking Ahead

As the year gradually wends to its close, we still have much to accomplish. We look forward to honoring Worshipful Ron Gutierrez with the Highest award that can be bestowed upon a brother in a blue lodge - The Hiram Award. We also look forward to scheduling a few more degrees schedule permitting, one third degree, two second degrees, and three first degrees. Moreover, we have many prospective candidates in the pipeline likely to be scheduled for the new year. This forward momentum is indeed promising but requires our undivided attention.

Our officers are now diligently focusing on completing their step-up qualifications for their respective offices for the ensuing Masonic Year, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained progress for Old West Lodge. It is imperative that we support them in this endeavor, for the growth and stability of our lodge rest upon the pillars of capable leadership.

Call to Action

I call upon each of you, my brethren, to lend your support in these final months. Let us end the year with the same commitment and enthusiasm with which we started it. Attend the scheduled degrees, encourage and mentor the new members, and assist our officers in their preparations.

I extend my warmest regards to you and your families as we approach the season of Thanksgiving. May we all find reasons to be grateful and ways to express our gratitude through our actions within and beyond the lodge.

Let us continue to work together in harmony towards a brighter future for our lodge and our community and shine the light of Masonry as a Pillar of Wisdom. 

Fraternally and sincerely yours,

Michael Schneider, PM

Worshipful Master (2023)

master@oldwestmasons.org

oldwestmasons.org

661-644-9835cell/text

Dear Brothers and Old West Lodge family

Dear Brethren,
 

I extend my sincere congratulations to our new Grand Master, Most Worshipful Sean Metroka, and the distinguished Grand Lodge officers.
 

As November unfolds, it heralds the election month for our Lodge officers who will lead us into the forthcoming year of 2024. It is paramount that these officers, upon assuming their stations, exemplify unwavering commitment and proficiency in the execution of our Masonic rituals. By "ritual," we emphasize the necessity for solemnity and an unwavering dedication to honor in all our Masonic endeavors.
 

Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to those diligent and dedicated brethren who have successfully demonstrated their proficiency as Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Your commitment to the craft is commendable, and we look forward to witnessing your continued growth and contributions to our beloved fraternity.
 

In the spirit of gratitude and unity, I also wish to extend warm wishes for a joyous Thanksgiving to all my fellow brethren, and to Old West Lodge family. May this season of reflection and appreciation bring forth an abundance of blessings to each of you and your loved ones.
 

In the South, we stand unified, representing the very essence of the pillar of beauty!

Sincerely and fraternally,

From the South Bro Ron Gutierrez , PM 

Junior Warden

docronald25@hotmail.com

661-803-0288