Past Masters Night 2024
Past Masters Night 2024
Bottom left to right: Eric Diamond, Kyle Bienman, Luis Barahona Jr., Anthony Popelka, Jack Recinto, Jack Muscia, Eugene Steingold and Laurent Kanago.
Top left to right: Michael Toth, Keith Carmack, Patrick Jones and Stanley Smith
On Tuesday, July 9th, 2024, Oriental Lodge #33 celebrated its annual Past Masters Night with over 45 brothers in attendance. Curiously, it was the first time in recent memory that we did not have a visitor from another lodge or jurisdiction. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the Past Masters who have guided our lodge through the years, honoring their leadership and dedication.
Brothers of Oriental Lodge # 33 Packed the house to honor our Past Masters
The evening began with a lively silent auction featuring a variety of Masonic gems and rare artifacts. The auction generated much excitement and participation, allowing brothers to bid on unique items and support the lodge.
Pictured above left :a rare bottle of Stagg bourbon, valued at $400 provided by Past Master Keith Carmack. Also pictured on the right are three bottles of custom Oriental Lodge # 33 Rye Whiskey with custom labels representing the three degrees created by Brother Thomas Kleiner. Custom acacia wooden stands were hand made by Brother Terry McCammon. These items created a fierce bidding war. Also seen above the bottle of Stagg is Brother Phil Garee’s famed home made sourdough bread.
Following the auction, a local taqueria set up an outdoor kitchen, serving a delectable array of tacos that were enjoyed by all attendees. The delicious food and relaxed atmosphere fostered camaraderie and fellowship among the brothers.
During the lodge meeting, Past Masters were honored by being seated in every chair of the lodge, performing their respective duties with distinction. This tradition highlights the invaluable experience and dedication of our Past Masters, showcasing their enduring commitment to the lodge.
Each Past Master was called upon in open lodge and given an opportunity to talk about their time in the East. Their reflections provided a touching and inspiring glimpse into the history and legacy of our lodge.
The Past Masters in attendance included:
Jack Muscia (1990)
Michael Toth (1993)
Eugene Steingold (1994)
Eric Diamond (2008)
Patrick Jones (2010)
Stanley Smith (2012)
Kyle Bieneman (2014)
Keith Carmack (2019)
Laurent Kanago (2020)
Jack Recinto (2021 & 2022)
Luis Barahona Jr. (2023)
Current Worshipful Master Anthony Popelka gave an excellent oration honoring the Past Masters, emphasizing the importance of their roles and sharing insights on effective leadership. His speech was a powerful reminder of the values and principles that guide our fraternity, and it left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Worshipful Master Anthony Popelka (2024) delivers the Past Masters Oration
Worshipful Master Anthony Popelka on Paster Masters Night
Brethren,
Good evening and welcome to this special occasion where we gather to honor our Past Masters, the pillars of Oriental Lodge #33. Tonight, we celebrate the legacy of those who have guided our lodge with wisdom, dedication, and unwavering commitment.
As we reflect on the contributions of our Past Masters, we are reminded of the true essence of leadership. Leadership is not merely about holding a position of authority; it is about setting an example, inspiring others, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
In my role as an officer at the Chicago Fire Department, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of both effective and ineffective leadership. The best leaders I have encountered are those who lead by example, who are the first to step into challenging situations, and who empower their teams to perform at their best. They understand that leadership is about service and sacrifice, about placing the needs of others above their own.
Our Past Masters have exemplified these qualities within our lodge. They have been the guiding lights, the mentors, and the steady hands steering us through both calm and stormy waters. Each of them, in their time in the East, had their own unique issues to deal with, as I do now. Their leadership has not only maintained the integrity of our traditions but has also adapted to the changing times, ensuring that our lodge remains vibrant and relevant.
Oriental Lodge #33 has a rich history, one that dates back to its founding in 1845. Established in a time when Chicago was still a burgeoning trading center, our lodge has been the cornerstone of Freemasonry in this city. The very first Master of our lodge, William F. Walker, who was the Episcopalian rector of St. James Cathedral, set a high standard for leadership and brotherhood. His vision and dedication laid the foundation for what Oriental Lodge #33 has become today. Through the years, we have continued to build on his legacy, fostering a community of support, learning, and growth.
Our second Worshipful Master, James Van Zandt Blaney, was not only a committed Mason but also a significant figure in Chicago's development. Blaney was a founder of the Chicago Board of Education and Rush Medical College, and a pioneer in medical pathology. His contributions extended beyond our lodge, influencing education and medical practice in ways that are still felt today.
It is important to recognize that some of our Past Masters may not attend lodge as frequently as they once did. This can be due to various personal, professional, or health reasons, and it is perfectly understandable. The true measure of their commitment and influence is not solely in their attendance but in their availability and willingness to offer guidance when needed. The real barometer of a leader's impact is whether any of us can reach out to them for advice or support in times of need.
Attending lodge is a wonderful expression of our brotherhood, and we encourage it wholeheartedly. However, attending lodge is not the sole function of Freemasons. The principles we uphold and the bonds we share extend beyond the walls of our meeting place. Our fraternity is about being there for one another, offering a listening ear, and providing wisdom when it is most needed. This, too, is the legacy of our Past Masters.
As we honor them tonight, let us remember that their legacy is not just in the history books but in the living fabric of our lodge. Every ritual we perform, every new member we initiate, and every act of charity we undertake is a testament to their enduring influence.
To our Past Masters, we owe a debt of gratitude. Your vision, dedication, and leadership have built the foundation upon which we stand. Your examples continue to inspire us to be better Masons and better men.
In closing, let us take a moment to reflect on our own roles within this lodge. Whether we are Past Masters, current officers, or brothers aspiring to lead, let us strive to embody the principles of true leadership. Let us be examples of integrity, compassion, and service, ensuring that Oriental Lodge #33 remains a beacon of Freemasonry for generations to come.
The evening was not just a celebration but also a reminder of the rich history and strong foundation built by our Past Masters. Each Past Master has left a mark on our lodge, guiding us with wisdom and dedication through the years. Their service and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the lodge's future, and their legacy continues to inspire current and future members.
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to making this event a memorable one. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Past Masters for their unwavering service and dedication to Oriental Lodge #33. Your legacy is the bedrock upon which we continue to build and grow.