Wausau Trestleboard
May 2011
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FROM the EAST
In the Fellowcraft degree, we hear of the significance of the word plenty. We symbolize it in Freemasonry by an ear of corn, or sheaf of wheat. Mackey informs us that in ancient symbolism, the goddess was depicted as a young nymph crowned with flowers and holding in her right hand the horn of Amalthea, the goat that suckled Jupiter; and in her left a bundle of wheat sheaves. Referring to the story told in the floorwork of the passes of the Jordan, he further quotes Burder, that, in Arabian countries dialectic differences of pronunciation are much greater betweenregional groups than they are in other parts of the world, thus making the pronunciation of the original work a much simpler distinction than might be at first expected.
My interests here however, are more philosophical. Oxford dictionary defines the word plenty as “Abundance, as much as one could desire . . . “ In the Fellowcraft degree we are told of how the craftsmen were paid their wages and of their pleasant employment at the temple. I wish to juxtapose that image of well employed and well cared for workmen with the images in the EA degree where we learn much of the Masonic art of charity. Benevolence has formed an important part of the teachings and organization of our craft. We have all been reminded, in the EA degree, of the role that this virtue is to play in our lives and in our Masonic character. Perhaps it is fitting to look at it in light of to how much plenty we enjoy.
Let us not forget either, that the principal analogy of our craft is that of work. Our talents are many. I look about our Lodge room and see an awesome array of abilities, skills, knowledge and influence. Do we share these? I know of a good number of Masons whose interests and involvements extend far beyond the walls of the Lodge and who contribute their talents with great vigor and energy to others in this world. There are others whose outreach is less extensive but who, through Masonic Art, extend knowledge of this philosophy to their younger brethren, influencing them to make contributions in the community and the world at large outside our portals.
What should a man do with the plenty that is his? I think, my brothers, you know that answer.
Fraternally,
Jim Bitner
Worshipful Master
Calendar:
Note the electronic Trestleboard is published monthly. Changes in dates and or times are reflected on our Calendar Page, which is updated as needed.
Forest Lodge No. 130, F & A.M.
May 4th — Stated Communication, 7:00 p.m. – Brother Jake Seever’s examination.
May18th — Special Communication, 7:00 p.m. — Beecher Daniels, PGM, Masonic Service Association coordinator, VA Hospitals in Wisconsin.
May 28th — 9:00 a.m. Memorial Day Parade. Assemble at Lodge; car pool to assembly area.
Mosinee Lodge No. 318, F & A.M.
May 5th — 7:00 PM Stated Meeting. Cribbage Tournament
May 19th — 6:00 PM Pot Luck Dinner*
May 23rd — 4:00 PM Barbeque at Dave Renly*
May 30th — Memorial Day
* Ladies, Families & Friends Welcome
Wisconsin Valley Shrine Club
Meet every Friday 12:00 PM @ Wausau Elks
Wausau York Rite
May 12th — 7:00 PM Stated Communication St. Omer Commandery #19.
Scottish Rite Club
May 18th location not yet determined. Thanks Tony to you and your staff for years of excellent breakfasts and service.
Wisconsin Valley Auxiliary
Wisconsin Valley Auxiliary will meet Friday, May 13, 2011 for a noon luncheon and meeting at the Elks Club.The program will be presented by Janet Johnson, retired representative to the Women’s General Auxiliary.
Special Notice — Wisconsin Valley Auxiliary will be having a fundraiser at Perkins Restaurant and Bakery on June 22, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Shrine Auxiliary receives 10% of all eat-in and take-out orders.
