The Sublime Degree of Master Mason

Acacia Park Mausoleum

Saturday November 2nd, 2024

On November 2nd, 2024, Oriental Lodge #33 proudly raised three new Master Masons—Sergey Mironov, Juan E. Centeno, and Anthony Santiago—in the resplendent surroundings of the Acacia Park Mausoleum. This sacred space, crafted by Brother Street Lightfoot in 1922, resides within an all-Masonic cemetery, a lasting tribute to the fraternity's values and heritage. The mausoleum itself is a masterpiece of marble, housing the remains of countless brothers and their partners. Within its walls is a unique, all-marble lodge hall—a sanctuary both grand and reverent, where Freemasonry’s teachings echo off the polished stone, calling each member to a life of integrity, duty, and honor.

Adding to the depth of the evening’s ceremony, we prepared a Day of the Dead altar, adorned with mementos honoring those who have passed. This altar stood as a heartfelt tribute, bridging our bonds with departed brothers and emphasizing the Freemasonic ideals of reflection and remembrance. Surrounded by the timeless symbols of mortality, the altar underscored the lessons of memento mori—reminding us that while life is fleeting, the influence of our deeds and character lives on.

After the solemn proceedings, fellowship continued at Edelweiss, a traditional German alehouse where brothers and visitors from various lodges gathered to celebrate. With hearty ales and the warm spirit of brotherhood, toasts were raised to the new Master Masons and the shared bonds of Freemasonry that extend beyond generations. Our deep gratitude goes to the brethren who traveled from other lodges and districts to share in this unforgettable evening, enriching the experience and strengthening our ties across the fraternity.