Fast away the old year passes, Fa la la la la, la la la la!
We are now arriving at the threshold of the month of January, named after the Roman god Janus, the god of beginnings, transitions and time. Janus was usually depicted as having two faces, one looking to the future and one to the past.
One would doubt seriously that anyone will be sad to see calendar year 2020 exit. It would likely be a sense of “good riddance”! As Masons we have much to look forward to as we hope to be able to resume our meetings. We can look back that while stressful and difficult, we persevere and be grateful for at least being safe and sound. We have at least that happy reflection. While we have restrictions, one thing that is and must remain “Virus free” are our tenets and our four cardinal virtues.
May we all have a safe, healthy and happy 2021.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
DECEMBER 23, 2020
Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
– Marcel Proust
What a wonderful image this quote conjures at this particular time! I am writing this at 5:40 p.m. when it’s cold and dark outside, when we all might be having a sense at this season of “Blah” or “Not Exactly” about our current situation with COVID coupled with memories of spouses, family members and long time friends who aren’t with us. In the We Equirer of December 13, there was published by the Centers for Disease Control a list of holiday activities to avoid, which is basically everything.
As Masons, we are called upon to be charming gardeners in our daily lives, which can be manifest in any number of things we can do or contribute to those around us are in need of any sort. By doing so we will sense a purpose in life. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that though there appears to be darkness, we walk with and towards the light which is prepared for us all.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
DECEMBER 9, 2020
Do you remember getting your report cards during your school days? We all got them and sometimes really didn’t look forward to having to bring them home! {I know I had a few of those]. We didn’t realize it then, but they were preparing us for our “Performance Reviews” at our various workplaces. In a nutshell, it was a report on how we’ve done and how we’re currently getting along.
The concept of Report Cards can be very useful for all Masons on a daily basis on “How did I do” today in my interactions : would I be able to stand under the Plumb as having walked uprightly in our several stations before God and all people, did on this day I produce Square Work for the benefit of God and all people, and that the steps that I took today were on the proper Level on the journey to that undiscovered country where we hope to stand in front of the Throne of the Supreme Architect.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
DECEMBER 2, 2020
And Moses said, I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
— Exodus 3:3
It was doubtless starting off to be a dull and boring day, standing out in the heat and sun tending a flock of your father-in-law’s sheep. God had different plans for Moses, a much greater calling, so He had had to get Moses’ attention.
Now while it is highly doubtful that we will encounter a burning bush which isn’t consumed by fire, we as Masons are well reminded to be ready in our daily lives to turn aside, to pay attention to and to take action for those of our friends and those around us in our communities at all times, but especially during this difficult time. I myself am reminded of the first of the Five Points of Fellowship, that we should ever be ready to go on foot and out of our way to assist not only a worthy brother but all those who we can assist. Our Supreme Architect has called on all of us to greater deeds, and will continue to do in our days ahead.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
NOVEMBER 18, 2020
Out of the depths have I cried to you, o Lord,
Lord, hear my voice
let your ears consider well the voice of my supplication.
Psalm 130:1
It would seem that the Psalmist would (or could have) written these words just recently in view of our lives this day and age. We have surely to some extent felt the “depths” of a dire situation and experienced the need or urge to call upon God from Low Twelve or Twelve at night. Things appear to be bleak and cheerless heading into the holiday season. While realizing the need for care and prudence, we are disappointed in seeing events curtailed and cancelled. What’s further unhelpful is now that by 6:00 p.m. it’s completely dark outside.
We as Masons recognize and understand times of Low Twelve in our lives, but we remember to look to The Great Architect in prayer for forbearance, fortitude and strength in the days ahead and that we will rejoice when these dark days are behind us.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
NOVEMBER 11, 2020
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row.
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with our foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold up high.
If we break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
A richly merited honor today to those who served, and those who gave all.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
NOVEMBER 4, 2020
My employer had “Costume for the Cure” last Friday : For a $5 donation to the company outreach fund, one was able to wear a Halloween outfit to work. So we had people going around loudly and with much {unneeded] levity trying to be someone or something they’re not.
Unfortunately we see this all too often this day and age from the “beautiful people” celebrities, other assorted wannabees preening on some social media platform and even some candidates for elected public office. Even with the dangers these days of gatherings, one could see billboard ads for costume rental businesses extolling to be “The Life of the Party” (such rich irony)..
We take many valuable concepts and reminders from Masonry We cannot live our lives going around trying to be someone or something we aren’t. We are most thankful that when we gather together we understand what we’re all about in real life and that we recognize this in each other as well. .
Be real, stay well and may the God of Jacob, Abraham and Issac be with us this day and all days ahead.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
OCTOBER 28, 2020
They are like the trees planted by streams of water,
bearing fruit in due season, with leaves that do not wither;
everything they do shall prosper.”
Psalm 1:3
The various trees in our midsts at this time of the year have peaked in coloration whose leaves have fallen to enrich our mother Earth. As Masons we can relate to this portion of the Psalter, as we are all called to bear our own “fruit” by combining our talents, knowledge and abilities to be productive and industrious for ourselves, families and communities. By living our lives in such a manner along with the Three Great Tenents of Our Profession, our “leaves” will not wither, we will be as mighty as the Cedars of Lebanon and will be able to rejoice in each other’s prosperity.
Let us continue to be strong and supportive of one another during this time of COVID and next Tuesday. We can and will persevere together.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM .
OCTOBER 19, 2020
God is our refuge and strength
a very present help in trouble
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea.
Psalm 46: 1-3
This passage came to mind earlier when I was “casting about” for something suitable for this week. Perhaps it was a bit of “Divine Revelation” [well, maybe not]; this passage does indeed call our attention as Masons at this point in time.
We need a refuge, a safe place, in our current lives. So much has changed, and continues to change even in the proverbial wink of the eye. We are all “victims” of COVID fatigue, yet COVID is not tired of us. We are assailed by political ads with vile warnings, dueling political “Town Halls” to where even the most basic discourse is difficult.
We have the antidote! We understand that our Supreme Architect is with us, as we acknowledge our faith and trust, which is represented to the family of Masonry through what we do with and for one another in our daily lives.
When possible and able, please come out to Lodge and partake in our own refuge and strength; should relief be needed, do not ever hesitate to reach out.
Michael A. Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
OCTOBER 7, 2020
“Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people” — Luke 5:10″
To relieve the distressed is a duty incumbent on all, especially Freemasons, as they are linked together by a chain of sincere affection. — E.A. Lecture
It’s quite the familiar and powerful image of being out on an ancient commercial fishing boat. When taken as “catching people” however, it opens up a completely different image.
Early on, we as Masons encounter this concept of a “safety net” in the segment of the Lecture pertaining to Brotherly Relief. We are to be mindful about providing that “net” especially at this time in our lives not only for each other but for all of those around us in our sundry communities who are in need and maybe in harm’s way. We can all relate to some one who at one time or another has “caught” us and brought us back from difficult times, or even one who provided a listening set of ears to comfort and strengthen us. May it ever be our bound duty to “catch”, keep and uphold one another during our journey together.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
I have had a small book for many years entitled “The Beauty And Glory of the Day” written by a brother named Walter Melnyk, who is also an ordained Episcopal minister, which is a set of three daily Masonic meditations for each day of the week. Brother Melnyk uses the six working tools (along with the Compasses for Sundays) so as to discern on the working tools their inner meanings.
Today, I am going to share with you his Wednesday morning meditation :
Great Architect of the Universe, as the blazing sun at High Meridian shows forth the beauty and glory of the day, so may your true Plumb Line produce in me the beauty and glory of an upright symmerty of words and deeds, that I may stand erect and not fall,as I seek to know and do your will among my fellow men.
So mote it be.
Michael Porada, P.M., L.E.O.
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
SEPTEMBER 25, 2020
By it, we account for the return of the seasons, and the number of scenes the seasons display to the discerning eye.
Happy autumn! As we read this, today is the first full day of autumn. For those who may be a bit “rusty” the sentence above comes from the Lecture of the Fellow Craft degree, and has always struck a chord in my own being.
Summer has come to an end; our days have gotten shorter noticeably and the humidity has gone as well. Football [in some form or another this year] has begun; the Reds are in their final week of the baseball regular season; stores are full of fall decor and Halloween candy.
I’ve always found it interesting that as the length of daylight decreases daily that our days are brighter than they were in June and July due to the sun’s changed path in the sky. Is it possible this is just one of our Creator’s way of reminding us of His promise to David [and by proxy to all of us] He has established His kingdom forever. As Masons let us ever remember this rich guarantee which will help us through this difficult and anxious time.
So mote it be.
Michael Porada, P.M., L.E.O.
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom. — Psalm 90:12
We have some days that are worse than others. We can’t do physical things we could do when we were younger. We’re “at odds” with someone for some reason. We have no sense of what “normal” is on a day to day basis. We look with trepidation to November 3rd, and wonder if we’ll be able to have family gatherings at Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.
It’s easy to get stuck in a downward spiral and it becomes nearly impossible to envision anything else.
Like the psalmist, our Masonry reminds us that wisdom is the ability of finding gratitude in the midst of these worst days. Our lives are fleeting as we travel on the level of time to that undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns, but our Supreme Architect of the Universe endures. We are gifted each day of our mortal lives.
Let us remind ourselves to seek out the goodness in each day, which along with our connections with each other, will aid and support all of us.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140
SEPTEMBER 2, 2020
You are now to quit this sacred retreat to mix again with the world.
This is the opening sentence of the optional Chaplain’s prayer when Lodge is to close. It resonates with me at this time as my wife Sandy & I just returned from a short trip to the Smoky Mountains. It was a much needed getaway for the both of us. We spent some extended time in the Greenbrier section of the National Park and were able to take the exquisite tapestry of the verdant trees, shrubs and the roaring waters [we even got to see a Black Bear!]. This part of Masonry came to mind, from the Fellow Craft Lecture :”It leads the contemplative to view with reverence and admiration the marvelous works of creation, and inspires the most exalted ideas of the perfection of his Divine Creator.”
It was a wonderful respite and retreat; we return refreshed and renewed to deal with the cares and concerns of our nation and world. Regardless of where we are, as Masons we recognize the wondrous work of God all around us each and every day; the Brazen Pillars of God’s promise to David [and by proxy to all humankind] that His house or kingdom is established forever.
Michael Porada. PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F+AM
AUGUST 26, 2020
And when this territory is a state
And joins the Union like all the others
The farmer and cowman and the merchant
Must all behave theirselves and act like brothers.
From the musical Oklahoma!
I’ve always liked this musical as it is a long-standing staple of Americana. It was the first collaboration of Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein and debuted on Broadway on March 31, 1943.
This part of the lyrics to the chorus “The Farmer and the Cowman Should Be Friends” resonates with us in this very trying times, especially as our nation approaches November 3rd. We see here a simmering conflict between two groups with very differing and conflicting visions of the future state of Oklahoma, but an express need to act like brothers.
Masonry very much and very deeply reinforces this sentiment, and while we all have our own and differing views about our society and nation, we are always need not only to act like brothers but to always aid, support and protect one another, ever remembering that harmony being the strength and support of our Institution.
AUGUST 26, 2020
And when this territory is a state
And joins the Union like all the others
The farmer and cowman and the merchant
Must all behave theirselves and act like brothers.
From the musical Oklahoma!
I’ve always liked this musical as it is a long-standing staple of Americana. It was the first collaboration of Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein and debuted on Broadway on March 31, 1943.
This part of the lyrics to the chorus “The Farmer and the Cowman Should Be Friends” resonates with us in this very trying times, especially as our nation approaches November 3rd. We see here a simmering conflict between two groups with very differing and conflicting visions of the future state of Oklahoma, but an express need to act like brothers.
Masonry very much and very deeply reinforces this sentiment, and while we all have our own and differing views about our society and nation, we are always need not only to act like brothers but to always aid, support and protect one another, ever remembering that harmony being the strength and support of our Institution.
“It is not good for man to be alone. I will make for him a helper suitable for him.” — Geneses 2:18
We’re all familiar with this passage from Genesis; whether this literally happened as described or not doesn’t matter as it points out a very essential part of our human life. As this continues this refers to a spouse, but we all know and Masonry reinforces its broader understanding that we all need help and are called upon equally to help one another. We see this this theme all throughout the three degree Lectures. In the Lecture we are reminded that “as dependence is the strongest bond of society, so mankind were made dependent on each other.”
We all need help, each and every day of our lives, things such as car and HVAC repairs we can’t do ourselves. We are called upon as Masons always to share our knowledge, time, experience and abilities to “all worthy, distressed Master Masons, their widows and orphans”. By doing so we will undoubtedly receive one of the best phrases : You’ve been a big help.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot #140 F&AM
AUGUST 12, 2020
“Come, let us sell him to the Israelites, and not lay our hands on him for he is our brother in our own flesh” And his brothers agreed. — Genesis 37:27
Here we have the familiar story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. We can imagine Joseph was a real pain in the neck to his order brothers and were glad to be rid of him! Yet they removed his coat, brought him up from the pit they had thrown him into, and sold him for 20 pieces of silver. We can picture the parallels of this story in the New Testament.
We don’t get to choose our family of origin or emotionally mature parents & a healthy household of siblings. Families are our circumstances and are part of our story.
This is also true to a large extent in our family of Freemasonry. We haven’t chosen our family but are molded into a family by what we share together with each other both when in Lodge and at all other times. Our Masonic family and shared experiences becomes a good part of our own story as well.
We look forward to next month when we will resume our work and time together, and while we might not yet be able to grasp one another’s hand in friendship, we resume and continue our family life through what unites us into and through our common bonds.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot #140 F&AM
AUGUST 5, 2020
Lift Up You Heart, Your Voice
Rejoice,Again, I Say Rejoice
This is a familiar refrain from one of Charles Wesley’s some 6,500 hymns he wrote in his lifetime. This is not only a benchmark in the Methodist Hymnal, but is universal across many Christian denominations, as well it should be. This also should resonate with us as well, especially as we continue to walk in the shadows of uncertainty. There is that sense of concern and foreboding these days, as we are seemingly assailed daily by bad news which seems unending.
Yet Masonry reminds us, just as this refrain does, that we need to “Lift Up” our entire being and to rejoice in the realization of all that we do have — which is that assurance of by the blessings of the Supreme Architect of the Universe and our shared Brotherhood in Freemasonry we will persevere. We can remember the tessellated border around the ground floor of King Solomon’s Temple representing the manifold blessings and comforts which do constantly surround us at all times.
I found a very small ceramic cornucopia the other day shopping at a Thrift Store, and placed it between my computer monitors at work; not only is it small and colorful, but an ongoing reminder to me to Rejoice Again, I say Rejoice.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot #140 F&AM .
JULY 29, 2020
W.M. — Then I presume you are a Mason
S.W. — I am so taken and accepted among Brothers and Fellows
This week involves the third question and answer done at the opening of a Lodge of Entered Apprentices. We define the word “presume” as meaning a logical deduction drawn from previously established facts or something taken for granted, generally acknowledged. .The question may represent to us that here at this earliest stage that Masonry is a life philosophy based on Logic and Deduction. Indeed in the Fellow Craft Lecture we visit Logic as one of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences; we understand its prominent place it has in Masonry.
We are to be taken and accepted by one other not only because we come together in a particular building or because we have Lapel Pins, rings, watches and bumper stickers (though these are indeed fine things in and of themselves) but rather who we are, how we are, in our service to God and those around us on a day to day basis. We also do not “presume” or take for granted our membership in our august Fraternity and all of its tenets we have sworn to uphold.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
JULY 23, 2020
W.M.– What came you here to do?
S.W.– To learn to subdue my passions and improve myself in Masonry.
I am reminded of a story where one Lodge’s Stated Meeting night, a man showed up who no one recognized. He found the Master, introduced himself and said he had received his EA Degree 20 years ago and was there to be found proficient. The Secretary checked the Lodge records and confirmed this. The Master said he was glad he was there and gently inquired about the apparent length of time that had transpired. His response was, “Well, Worshipful, I reckon it took me this long to learn to subdue my passions.”
We see as a recurring theme throughout the Ceremony of Initiation, Lecture and Charge about subduing the passions and keeping them with due bounds. The first Cardinal Virtue is entirely concerned about contracting bad habits and the indulgence of them which will lead down a very slippery slope in our lives, as well as harming the Institution as a whole. Being Temperante is not Abstaining but realizing the tried and true “When To Say When”, so to speak. It is not surprising that the major chord in our Initiation is to keep ourselves in due bounds.
So perhaps an alternative answer to the Master’s Second question would be as follows : “To remind myself and always remember to subdue my passions, which will improve myself in Masonry”.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot #140 F&AM
JULY 15, 2020
W.M. — Brother Senior Warden, whence came you?
S.W.– From a Lodge of the Holy Saints John of Jerusalem.
We have all heard this question asked and answered at the opening of a Lodge of Entered Apprentices. Why is this asked and answered in this manner, and what does it mean?
As there is no actual Lodge in Jerusalem, this should tell us that Freemasonry is a figurative and subjective Way of Life. It has been said and written in times long ago in Scotland that when a Mason was asked what is his home Lodge was to respond that he comes from a St. John’s Lodge, so we can see that our ritual has a definite Scots influence. During the Lecture we learn of the Holy Saints John being eminent patrons, back in the day when various trades people would select some Christian saint as their patron, Masons selected these two to represent the best qualities of Justice, Zeal and Fidelity.
Why Jerusalem? Perhaps that this ancient city, sacred in its own particular manner to Jews, Moslems and Christians, represents a “sacred place” or and ideal ending point for all who subscribe to a belief in their own way to the Supreme Being. As Jerusalem is “sacred ground”, we Masons have maybe brought that same concept to the area in Lodge bewteen the Master and the Altar with the Three Great Lights as “sacred ground”.
Next week I am going to continue this look with the Second Question and Answer; the ensuing week will be a look at the Third Question and Answer.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F+AM
JUNE 24, 2020
“You brood of vipers” — Luke 3:7
Today marks the feast day of our one patron of Freemasonry, St. John the Baptist. Perhaps addressing a group of people as a brood of vipers might not be polite; perhaps it is a deliberate overstatement to get one’s attention, and if that’s the case, then it works!
We don’t know how the Saints John got chosen as our patrons, or how we come from a Lodge of the Holy Saints John, but it would seem that John the Baptist is an appropriate patron for us. He goes on in the narrative in Luke about something that is and ever should be, which is our fourth Cardinal Virtue, Justice. John talks to the people gathered for Baptism to do the right things — not to be without coats, but to give an extra one to someone in need, to the [hated] Tax Collectors : not to stop collecting taxes but collect only what’s owed, and to the [feared and hated] occupying Roman Soldiers : not to stop being soldiers/law enforcement but to be wise and not extort. John today from the Banks of the Jordan calls out to us wise and serious truths as to how we should conduct ourselves. to take that “First Step” and continue to taking Right Steps so that we as Masons will be found as “Just and Upright”.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
JUNE 3, 2020
Well, my seven week furlough came to an end last week, so I am back working! This means that my reading time that I did have has shrunk considerably [which is fine with me!] I did read a variety of books over the period of time away from work, and came across some things that I learned [and did not know] about one of our members, to-wit: Brother James Norris Gamble, which is what I am going to “pass along” this week.
In the 1870’s in Cincinnati, there had emerged a number of “short line” railroads, one of them being known as the Cincinnati and Westwood railroad, running on its narrow gauge tracks from downtown to its terminus in Cheviot. After some time it went defunct, but the line was purchased in 1898 by Brother Gamble, who changed the gauge to regular width, which ran for a number of years from the 6th and Baymiller station to its depot on Glenmore Avenue in Cheviot (shown). It was conveniently arranged for the puffer-belly to stop both inbound and outbound at Metz’s winery located in the hills along Queen City Avenue.
Cincinnati’s political and governmental affairs by early in the 20th century left much to be desired; .city government was basically at a back table at Wielert’s Cafe at 1408 Vine St., by George “Boss” Cox,
Rud Hynica, and August Garry Hermann. Voter fraud and patronage jobs were rampant. In the run up to the mayoral election of 1905, James Gamble was the committee chair of the newly formed Honest Election Commision, whose members included Roman Catholic Archbishop Henry Moeller, Episcopal Bishop Bodd Vincent, Rabbi David Phillipson and other civic and business leaders.
Michael Porada, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140
Editors note: Urban archeologists have traced the old Cincinnati and Westwood Railroad route through Westwood and Fairmount. To view some of the old line visit http://www.jjakucyk.com/transit/caw/index.ht
MAY 27. 2020
I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord — Psalm 122:1
We haven’t been able the last two plus months to have been able to attend our house of worship due to COVID-19 restrictions, which has left a definite void, along with not being able to attend Lodge. The
plate has indeed been empty. This year Christians weren’t able to observe Holy Week and Easter, Jews were unable to observe Passover and Muslims unable to observe the month of Ramadan as faith communities.
Yet the psalmist and our experiences in Masonry remind that while are faith communities are important, entering into the house of the Lord is an everywhere and every day occurrence. While necessarily apart, we may look and remember the two Brazen Pillars, of the Great Architect’s promise to us that his house and kingdom reign forever for one and all.
Hopefully we will soon be able in some way shape or form to resume gather together, realizing the buildings we enter are made by human hands while we strive to reach that Eternal house in the heavens, not made by human hands.
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
MAY 17, 2020
I am writing this on May 17th, since it marks 30 years ago today that I was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. I at that time had no idea where my journey in Masonry would take me; it has been a rich and rewarding one. Who would have thought that the brother who signed my petition, Walt Dewar, Past Master and then Treasurer, would see me also as a Past Master and Treasurer. It has been my great honor to have served both Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge and North Bend Lodge as Master. Masonry for me is an “enabler” for my writing and speaking abilities and to put to good use my gift of memory to preside, obligate and give the Lectures and Charges. I especially cherish all those brethren over the years but have supported me, whispered good counsel in my ear, and were there for me during my periods of Low Twelve [which we all have].
I look forward to once again being able to be together in our Sacred Retreats, and also to welcome those who are entering our Fraternity and sharing in what I have received. One portion of the Lecture of the Master Mason degree has always resonated with me, and is with me now, is in the Three Steps : That we may look back with a happiness consequent with a well-spent life”. My life in Masonry is all of that, and much more.
I thank God for every remembrance of you. — Philippians 1:3
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140
MAY 13, 2020
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house, says the Lord of hosts; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an everlasting blessing. — Malachi 8:10
I’ve chosen this not real well known passage today as it helps remind us as Masons that we are blessed and remembered by the Supreme Architect of the Universe in all times and especially at this time where we are having to be physically apart. We are called upon to give and to give generously as Masons [“Charity extends beyond the grave into the boundless realms of eternity”] and what the fruits of
our charity and concern will repay us all both in this mortal life and our eternal lives. We look and hope for these everlasting blessings from the open windows of heaven.
May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, confirm in our hearts and minds the love of God, now and forever. SO MOTE IT BE.
Michael Porada, PM
L.E.O., Western hills/Cheviot #140 F&AM
APRIL 29, 2020
Due to my time home now while on furlough, I have had the opportunity to find out how much our house cat [named Rhett] likes the added time
here! [I’m not too sure how much Sandy likes it at times, though!] We’ve had this 4 legged critter for going on 9 years. He teaches me so
many things, that I am his protection, security, food, clean letter tray and a warm lap to sleep on when it’s not warm. Rhett amazes me
all the many times each day he manifests his understanding of what I represent to him. As I type this, Rhett is laying next to the chair
where I’m seated, with his back to me, signifying his trust in me.
The value of Rhett at this time reminds me that this is a parallel for what my right relationship is and should be towards God, who in the
charge of the EA degree are to “esteem Him the source of all good”. As we all are going though our own feelings of lament, anxiety and hope
[sometimes all at the same time, it seems], we are reminded and assured that our faith and trust in God, illustrated by the Great
Tenets of Freemasonry, will guide us and lead us in the days ahead.
Michael Porada, PM
LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140
APRIL 22, 2020
The Lord bless you and keep you The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you
The Lord lift up his countenance to you, and give you peace So they shall put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them
— Numbers 6:22-27
I have chosen this passage as it is a fitting one for our daily lives at this point in time of fear and uncertainty surrounding us. Our
Jewish brothers and sisters recognize this as “The Priestly Benediction” [known in Hebrew as as “Birkat Kohanim”] offered up by
the rabbi at the conclusion of Shabbat services. It enables the congregation of lifting up hands in thanksgiving, bringing God to us.
How much we need peace in our lives and homes at this time, a reminder to be always gracious and be blessed by those intangibles to which we
as Masons need, especially among us and our families. Three weeks ago I was furloughed from my job, with an estimated recall of July 1. My
loss has bothered me to a definite extent at times, but these words will remind me [and hopefully all of us] that the Great Architect of
the Universe does indeed bless and keep us this day and all days to come.
APRIL 15, 2020
It was a depressing and sad walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus. The two men were downcast, discouraged and frightened of the recent events which
had occurred in Jerusalem when a stranger joined them on the road. The stranger, sensing their worries, began speaking with them until they
reached their destination.
The two sojourners asked this stranger to join them for a meal when they arrived. The stranger took bread, blessed it, broke and gave it
to them to eat, at which time the stranger’s identity became known to them.
This passage from Luke chapter 24 is an appropriate one for this time and especially in the uncertainty and gloom which hovers all us.
Although we cannot come together and break beard, let us as Masons remember that we are indeed linked together in a chain of sincere
affection for one another, a chain which cannot be broken, a chain which enable us to be united through all things and all times. May we,
when we break bread alone out of necessity, be known to all our Brothers and families eternally.
So mote it be.
Michael Porada
LEO
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
APRIL 8, 2020
LIGHT FROM MICHAEL PORADA, PM. LODGE L.E.O.
“It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in the land of Egypt” [Exodus 12:27]
There are three experiences common to the Jewish Passover and the Christian Last Supper: in both festivals the Unleavened Bread
represents Community, the Paschal Lamb that of Freedom, while Fire and Water represent New Life.
This week is a sacred week for Jews and most Christians around the world, as these Faiths are intertwined with the events peculiar to
their Faith Traditions. However, events around the world and our nation will make these annual observances much different in the unique
reality we face.
We pray for the Leaders of the world and our nation that they make wise decisions and take right actions for the welfare of all. We also
ask the Supreme Architect of the Universe to pass over us from the coronavirus. Our Jewish brothers and sisters wish each other “Next
Year in Jerusalem” at the Seder’s conclusion, a subjective testament of hope that we’ll all be in a better or more ideal place in the
future. As Masons, we have our own connection to Jerusalem, an ideal place in where the Lodge dedicated to the Holy Saints John will be
found.
Many prayers and best wishes to one and all during the week and until we too can meet in an ideal place.
Michael Porada P.M.
Lodge Education Officer
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
APRIL 2, 2020
It enables us to undergo pain, peril and danger and is equally distant from cowardice.
Perhaps this a good time to reflect upon the Second Cardinal Virtue, Fortitude. The times we live in are fraught with peril and danger. We are seemingly at the whim of COVID-19; there is nothing but “gloom and doom” through the media and on the Internet. Uncertainty is rampant.
But our second Cardinal Virtue reminds us that we are not to be afraid as we know the Great Creator looks out for all of us, and that we are ready willing and able to assist our brothers, our friends and our communities as we are able in a safe and responsible manner. God’s promise to David was that His house is established forever and that we are called upon at this time to help in His work. Imagine how bright the day will be when we can once join one another at a restaurant and grasp one another’s hand in Fraternal friendship!
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
APRIL 8, 2020
“It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in the land of Egypt” [Exodus 12:27]
There are three experiences common to the Jewish Passover and the Christian Last Supper: in both festivals the Unleavened Bread
represents Community, the Paschal Lamb that of Freedom, while Fire and Water represent New Life.
This week is a sacred week for Jews and most Christians around the world, as these Faiths are intertwined with the events peculiar to
their Faith Traditions. However, events around the world and our nation will make these annual observances much different in the unique
reality we face.
We pray for the Leaders of the world and our nation that they make wise decisions and take right actions for the welfare of all. We also
ask the Supreme Architect of the Universe to pass over us from the coronavirus. Our Jewish brothers and sisters wish each other “Next
Year in Jerusalem” at the Seder’s conclusion, a subjective testament of hope that we’ll all be in a better or more ideal place in the
future. As Masons, we have our own connection to Jerusalem, an ideal place in where the Lodge dedicated to the Holy Saints John will be
found.
Many prayers and best wishes to one and all during the week and until we too can meet in an ideal place.
Michael Porada P.M.
Lodge Education Officer
Western Hills/Cheviot Lodge #140 F&AM
APRIL 2, 2020
It enables us to undergo pain, peril and danger and is equally distant from cowardice.
Perhaps this a good time to reflect upon the Second Cardinal Virtue, Fortitude. The times we live in are fraught with peril and danger. We are seemingly at the whim of COVID-19; there is nothing but “gloom and doom” through the media and on the Internet. Uncertainty is rampant.
But our second Cardinal Virtue reminds us that we are not to be afraid as we know the Great Creator looks out for all of us, and that we are ready willing and able to assist our brothers, our friends and our communities as we are able in a safe and responsible manner. God’s promise to David was that His house is established forever and that we are called upon at this time to help in His work. Imagine how bright the day will be when we can once join one another at a restaurant and grasp one another’s hand in Fraternal friendship!
Michael Porada, PM, LEO
Well, my seven week furlough came to an end last week, so I am back working! This means that my reading time that I did have has shrunk considerably [which is fine with me!] I did read a variety of books over the period of time away from work, and came across some things that I learned [and did not know] about one of our members, to-wit: Brother James Norris Gamble, which is what I am going to “pass along” this week.