St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

On the evening of March 14th, we were honored to welcome the DDGM to our Lodge, and it proved to be an enriching experience, brimming with stimulating conversation. Our discussions ranged from the origins of St. Patrick’s Day to the intricate nuances of the Masonic Ritual, and we were able to uncover several obscure but fascinating facts about Freemasonry. Adding to the evening’s festivities, WB Andruczyk prepared a delectable meal of corned beef and cabbage that tantalized the senses and brought everyone together in appreciation.

This occasion was a true embodiment of the tenets of Fellowship and learning that underpin our Masonic community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have shared it together. It is through such gatherings that we can broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of not only each other but also of the world around us, and we look forward to future opportunities to engage in similar exchanges of ideas and knowledge.

Sad News To Report – Brother Richard S. Welker

It is my sad duty to report the passing of Brother Richard S. Welker. Brother Welker has put down his heavy Earthy working tools of life after 70 years as a Mason.

Our Brother was born on July 7, 1927. Initiated as an Entered Apprentice on April 16th, 1953 at Transportation Lodge #842 (now Renaissance Lodge #1188). Passed to Fellowcraft on September 3, 1953, and Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on December 10, 1953. He affiliated with Blazing Star Lodge #694 on January 1, 1990. Our Brother was Raised to the Celestial Lodge in the sky on March 13, 2023, at the age of 96 and a Mason for 70 years. Brother Welker served in the army from 1941 until 1959 serving duty in WWII and Korea as an MP. Our Brother worked the quarry for many years and leaves behind a great legacy. Thank you Brother for all of your contributions to Masonry and to the betterment of humanity. You can rest knowing your good works will live on for years to come.

Please join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to the Welker family in this difficult time.

“Well done thou good and faithful servant.  Enter thou into the joy of the Lord” Amen.


Valentine’s Day Ladies Night

Happy Valentine's Day

On Valentine’s Day, Brothers, wives, and friends gathered together for a special dinner celebration. We cooked up a feast of surf and turf and set the table with flowers. As we enjoyed the delicious food, everyone shared stories of their past. We laughed, reminisced, and celebrated our friendships, thankful for the love and support we received from each other.  It was refreshing to have a meal and nobody was consistently checking their phones, however, nobody took any photos either.  Maybe next time!

The night ended with warm hugs and promises to do it again next year. As we left, we all felt grateful for the love in their lives, whether it be romantic or Brotherly. It was a Valentine’s Day to remember at Blazing Star Lodge.