Three Worthy Candidates took their first steps into the Masonic journey as Entered Apprentices at Carmel Lodge #421 on 09/26/2024. The Brothers at #421 are eager to support and guide them through this exciting adventure.
And guess what? We’re just getting started! Another trio of eager Candidates will be initiated as Entered Apprentices on 10/03/2024—looks like we’re going to need more aprons! For details on all upcoming events, see our Trestle Board for our schedule.
To open the night, Worshipful Master duties were expertly managed by Merle Kranning, our very capable Junior Warden, who not only led the evening with heart and an impressive command of the ceremony material, but also treated everyone to an outstanding dinner beforehand. In fact, Merle accomplished the unofficial “Lodge Leader Trifecta”—a difficult weeks long combination of duties which included assembling the craft list for the degree, preparing dinner, and performing the Master’s duties for the degree. Kudos to you Merle!
Jerry Harvey, Past Master and ‘Old Hand Extraordinaire,’ stepped up to cover the Junior Warden station. Despite his impressive experience, he had a little slip-up (because, hey, nobody’s perfect!). But don’t worry, “Carlos Garcia” has graciously volunteered to mentor Jerry—after all, we’re never too old to learn something new, right Jerry?
Herb Reynolds as Senior Warden of Carmel #421, handled the station effortlessly, probably because he was feeling the birthday magic! We all wished Herb a Happy Birthday and hope Herb’s year ahead is his best yet.
Carlo Nepomuceno, our Senior Deacon, expertly guided the candidates around the temple, giving them their first tactile experiences of Masonic ritual. With his calm demeanor and precise movements, Carlo ensured the candidates felt both welcomed and at ease. Much thanks to the assisting Brothers who helped Carlo in his task.
The crossfire lecture was brilliantly delivered by Tyler “Pinto” Curtis and Jackson “T-Bone” Kisor. If there were a “rising star” section of a “Masonic Oscars”, these two would definitely be in the running.
For the second and third lectures, we had our very own Merle Kranning, Junior Warden, and Neil Anger, Past Master, taking us through with fervor, precision, and passion. We’re never really sure how “even-keeled” Merle continues to work so well with “mostly-gruntled” Neil …but it works. Bravo gentlemen!
It’s been an exciting time at Carmel Lodge #421, and we’re looking forward to many more memorable nights like this. Let’s keep the light shining bright!
