Summer 2004

CALIFORNIA

AIMING
FOR THE
STARS
Rocket scientist john vantuno’s journey through masonry

www.freemason.org
FOURTH ANNUAL

CALIFORNIA MASONIC SYMPOSIUM

July 31, 2004

“Freemasonry and the American Frontier”

2004 FELLOW OF THE INSTITUTE FOR MASONIC STUDIES Hotel reservations can be made at the Radisson
DR. HOWARD STEWART Hotel San Diego. Call the reservations department
PAST MASTER OF THE TEXAS LODGE OF RESEARCH at 619/260-0111 and ask for the California
Masonic Symposium rate of $115 per night (double
LOCATION: San Diego Scottish Rite, 1895 Camino
occupancy, not including tax). The rate is valid
del Rio South, San Diego, CA
three days before and three days after the
Symposium. Hotel reservations must be made by
TIME: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by a banquet and
key note address July 2, 2004 to guarantee the group rate and room
availability.
REGISTRATION: $69
BANQUET: $49 Symposium registration forms are available from
the lodge secretary and are available at
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 CONTENTS
CALIFORNIA

FREEMASON
12
VOLUME 52
JUNE 1, 2004 cover story
NUMBER 3

PUBLICATION BOARD From one-day Mason to life long learner, John Vantuno shares his
Howard D. Kirkpatrick, Grand Master
John L. Cooper III, Grand Secretary journey through Masonry since being raised in a New Jersey one-
Allan L. Casalou, Editor in Chief day class. Vantuno, made a Mason in 1998, credits his one-day
EDITORIAL STAFF conferral as a critical turning point in his life. Without the
Kimberly B. Murawski, Copy Editor opportunity to join when he did, John may not have become a
Steffani Kizziar, Masonic Homes Editor
Brad Bradbury, Online Editor Mason until later—if ever. Vantuno, a rocket scientist, is a past
master of Willow Glen Fraternity Lodge No. 399 in San Jose.
PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Braun Photography
Albert U. Fahnestock
Rev. Susan L. Scott
Moulin Studios
David Fairchild Studio

Cover Photo by David Braun Photography

Design by Burritt Design

For more articles of interest, check out California Freemason Online at www.freemason.org.
OFFICERS OF THE GRAND LODGE
GRAND MASTER
Howard D. Kirkpatrick, Reading No. 254
DEPUTY GRAND MASTER
David R. Doan, Sunset No. 369
SENIOR GRAND WARDEN
Frederick L. Sorsabal, Placerville No. 26
5 in California 16 around the world
Grand Master Kirkpatrick Benjamin Auray became a Mason
JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN
Melvyn B. Stein, San Diego No. 35 invites Masons to attend any in California. When he later
GRAND TREASURER of the five one-day conferral moved to France, he learned that
Warren J. Blomseth, Crow Canyon No. 551 demonstrations. Attend and there are considerable differences
GRAND SECRETARY find out what it’s all about. in Masonry around the world. You
John L. Cooper III, Culver City-Foshay No. 467
might be interested to know how
GRAND LECTURER
Harold A. Macy, Palmdale No. 769 candidates prove their proficiency
in French lodges.

www.freemason.org 6 lodge spotlight 18 membership

Learn about the Lodges around the state use the
CALIFORNIA FREEMASON
traditional observance Pass It On membership
(USPS 083-940) is published quarterly by the lodge and the process development program to share
Publishing Board and is the only official
publication of the Grand Lodge of Free and of Masonic formation it the Masonic legacy with others.
Accepted Masons of the State of California,
1111 California St., San Francisco, CA offers its members. Is your lodge using it?
94108-2284.

Publication Office – Publication offices at the

Grand Lodge Offices, 1111 California Street,
San Francisco, CA 94108-2284. Periodicals
Postage Paid at San Francisco, CA and at
additional mailing offices.

Postmaster – Send address changes to

8 history 19 masonic homes
California Freemason, 1111 California Street,
San Francisco, CA 94108-2284. Follow the evolution of Through exposure to Masonic
Publication Dates – Publication dates are the
instructional tools developed for ideals, the Covina Home children
first day of December, March, June, and the lectures from drawings on a learn values they will take into
September.

Subscriptions – CALIFORNIA FREEMASON is

lodge floor into modern adult life.
mailed to every member of this Masonic trestleboards.
jurisdiction without additional charge. Others
are invited to subscribe for $2.00 a year or
$2.75 outside of the United States.

Permission to reprint – Permission to reprint

original articles in CALIFORNIA FREEMASON is
granted to all recognized Masonic publications
with credit to the author and this publication.
10 masonic education 20 masonic homes
Read John Cooper’s position A high standard of care is the
Phone: 800/831-8170 or that the initiatic process constant aim of the Masonic
415/776-7000;
starts before a man knocks at Homes. Read about the programs
fax: 415/776-7170;
the door of a Masonic lodge in place that emphasize Masonic
e-mail: [email protected].
and continues long after the values to care providers.
conferral of degrees.

California Freemason 3 Summer 2004

EDITORIAL

Freemasonry and Membership

Membership is the lifeblood of any organization and encouraged by the guilds. I
I wonder if the
Freemasonry is not any different. It is time to cease talking wonder if the operative Masons
and wringing our hands about declining membership. It is
operative had not taken that bold step,
time to take positive action to provide eligible men the Masons had not would Freemasonry exist
opportunity to seek out the principles for which our craft taken that bold today?
stands. As I believe our ancient
Our members possess the manpower to exert beneficial
step, would
brethren did, we must change
influence throughout our society. That potential, however, Freemasonry our approach as well. In “The
is far from realized! The teachings of Freemasonry lie exist today? Craft and its Symbols,” Allen
dormant in too many of our members. We must begin to Roberts wrote, “the principles
illustrate to those outside the walls of our lodges, that the of Freemasonry are transmitted unimpaired, but the
lessons we possess are beneficial to society in general. vehicle through which they are expressed changes as the
I ask every Mason who has knelt at our Masonic altar to years go on.”
rise daily with a consciousness of tasks confronting them Membership is the responsibility of each of us. We all
and those about them, and by precept and example strive know good men who would be qualified for membership.
for that true brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of We also need to concentrate on membership retention and
God which we cherish so fervently. provide, through good lodge leadership, programs for the
Our ancient brethren saw a need to adapt to their diverse generations we have in our order. How important it
environment after Euclid’s theory of geometry was is to make sure that all of our members and their families
rediscovered and published. This revealed the secrets that enjoy our Masonic heritage.
operative Masons had for constructing the large cathedrals This issue is dedicated to the exploration of the
of the day. They saw a complete change in their guilds as initiation process and membership-related ideas. The new
others now could build as they had. As the numbers of membership development program, Pass It On, is a
members in their guilds began to decline, the operative tremendous opportunity for each of us to talk about and
Masons accepted others into membership: men who had share Masonry with our families and friends. Let’s get to
no connection with the building trades and men who had work!
an interest only in the moral principles taught and

Fredrick L. Sorsabal
Senior Grand Warden

California Freemason 4 Summer 2004

 IN CALIFORNIA

Grand Master Kirkpatrick

What Is a invites Masons to attend
any of the five one-day
One-Day conferral demonstrations
Conferral? SATURDAY, JUNE 26
Long Beach Scottish Rite
By Richard Berman
855 Elm Avenue, Long Beach
1:00 p.m.
Demonstrations
SATURDAY, JULY 24
offered to answer Fresno Masonic Center,
Join Grand Master Howard D. Kirkpatrick and
other Grand Lodge officers at any of the five questions 2992 E Clinton Avenue, Fresno
1:00 p.m.
one-day conferral demonstrations.

A
s the state considers legislation questions about the one-day conferral
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28
that would allow the Grand process and educational presentations. San Francisco Scottish Rite
Master to authorize a one-day The committee that has been 2850 Nineteenth Avenue,
conferral of the three degrees of assigned the task of presenting the San Francisco
Masonry, Grand Master Kirkpatrick has demonstrations includes Deputy 1:00 p.m.
assembled a team to conduct five Grand Master David R. Doan, Grand
demonstrations throughout the state Lecturer Harold A. Macy, and the five SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
to provide insight into the process. assistant grand lecturers. San Diego Scottish Rite
At the 2003 Annual Communication, A listing of the dates and locations 1895 Camino Del Rio South,
Grand Master William Holsinger of the demonstrations is provided in San Diego
proposed a recommendation that the sidebar. 1:00 p.m.
California adopt one-day conferrals in While one-day conferrals may seem
a manner similar to other grand like a major departure from tradition, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2
lodges. More than 61 percent of the in fact there have always been many Elk Grove Masonic Center
lodge leadership voted in favor of the ways to join the craft. For example,
9829 Waterman Rd, Elk Grove
1:00 p.m.
recommendation, carrying over the grand masters are authorized to make
legislation to October 2004. a Mason at sight. General Douglas
To confirm dates and times,
“There were many questions raised MacArthur was made a Master Mason
visit the events section of
at the Annual Communication about at sight on January 14, 1936, while www.freemason.org.
the one-day conferral,” says Grand serving in the Philippines, and was
Master Kirkpatrick. “The instrumental in creating the first
demonstrations will help answer those Masonic lodges in Japan.
questions.” Another hero of the Second World
While the degrees of Masonry will War, George Marshall, was also made a
not be performed at the Mason at sight by the Grand Master of
demonstrations, those who attend will Washington, D.C., in 1941.
receive a full explanation of the way in The Grand Lodge of Washington,
which the degrees will be performed D.C., was the first grand lodge in the
and how the education portion of the US to adopt one-day conferrals. In the
program will be presented. Attendees 12 years since, 34 other grand lodges
will have the opportunity to ask across the country have followed suit.

California Freemason 5 Summer 2004

LODGE SPOTLIGHT

The

Lodge
By Dennis Chornenky

W hile many Masons may have heard about

European concept lodges, which are relatively
new to American Freemasonry, few have heard
of the traditional observance lodge.
initiation ceremony, forming the chain of union after the
meetings, longer time between degrees, and the
requirement for candidates to present a paper before the
lodge on the lessons of each degree prior to advancement.
Traditional observance lodges are similar to European Traditional observance lodges are also more likely to
concept lodges in that they incorporate higher dues, use the term agape rather than festive board to describe
festive boards, a strict dress code, and higher standards of the meal that follows the meetings. Agape is the ancient
ritual. They differ in that they choose to follow a close Greek word for love, and in Freemasonry the term
observance of the traditional initiatic elements of signifies a meal eaten in common by a congregation of
continental European and South American Freemasonry. Masons in token of brotherly love.
This observance is characterized by a solemn approach A non profit organization working to promote the study
to holding stated communications and conferring and understanding of traditional Freemasonry, called the
degrees, the use of the chamber of reflection as part of the Masonic Restoration Foundation (MRF), provides

California Freemason 6 Summer 2004

education and support for traditional accessible and interesting to members lodge and promotes the continuing
observance lodges in recognized and deal with the philosophical issues study of Masonic lessons by the
jurisdictions. The MRF fosters a network and questions that many men begin to brethren. The topic of the papers must
of lodges and individuals that will help find more meaningful as they mature. be relevant to the interests of the lodge,
preserve the initiatic tradition within A typical meeting of such a lodge may and papers of a strictly historical or
American Freemasonry. go as follows. The brethren, all dressed biographical nature are rarely
The essential work of a traditional according to the dress code (at entertained in the lodge room, though
observance lodge is not to review minimum black suit, white shirt, and they may be presented during the agape.
minutes or bills, or plan social or black tie), will arrive at the lodge hall, Topics considered appropriate for the
philanthropic activities, but rather to which will be dimly lit by candlelight or lodge room are symbolism, initiation,
create an atmosphere where the by other subtle sources, with classical ritual, philosophy, and art.
members can learn the lessons of music playing softly in the background. Before closing the lodge, the
Freemasonry and how they can be If there is a degree, the brethren will worshipful master will call for another
carried into their daily lives. maintain complete silence prior to the period of silence. Once the lodge has
This is referred to as Masonic ceremony. Otherwise, they will converse been formally closed, the brethren will
formation, which is the ever-continuing quietly over some light refreshments gather around the altar for a ceremony
process of spiritual and intellectual before entering the lodge room and known as the chain of union, which is
formation that all Freemasons must meant to symbolize the common
undergo in order to improve commitment to Masonic ideals and
This is referred to as Masonic
themselves in Masonry. This term connection with other Masons all over
formation, which is the ever-
differs from Masonic education in the world.
continuing process of spiritual
that it refers to a process of growth The brethren will then retire to the
and intellectual formation that
concerned with much more than agape, which is usually a catered meal
all Freemasons must undergo in
intellectual faculties. Masonic with formal toasts and where a
order to improve themselves in
formation is the process of fitting the discussion of the main paper
Masonry.
rough ashlar of the imperfect being presented earlier will take place.
into the perfect ashlar. It is a Traditional observance lodges give
constant transformation through the use being seated. their members the opportunity to
of Masonic symbols, rituals, and Once the lodge is formally opened, the partake in a ritual and sociability that
teachings. master will call for a period of silence, they cannot find anywhere else.
Success of a traditional observance usually lasting several minutes. Then the Traditional Masonry allows brothers to
lodge is viewed as effectively imparting master will call for the scheduled papers move their minds from the mundane to
the traditional teachings within Masonic and pieces of music to be presented. the profound, away from life’s petty
symbols and the unification of the The music is of a contemplative particulars to attention on its
brethren in such a pursuit. nature and is viewed as an important transcendent meaning. While traditional
Successful traditional observance component of every meeting; it is Freemasonry may not appeal to
lodges, usually maintaining a small intended to acquaint the brethren with everyone, it is proving to be a success in
membership of fewer than 50 brothers, the spectrum of Masonic music more and more jurisdictions around the
retain and engage their members with composed during the 18th century and United States.
meaningful human fellowship, to educate them on the profound history
stimulating discourse, and enriching of the classical musical tradition and its
For further information, visit the
programs. relationship to Masonry.
Masonic Restoration Foundation Web
Traditional observance lodges make The presentation of papers is viewed
site at www.masonicrestoration.com.
Masonic teachings and philosophy as an essential aspect of the life of the

California Freemason 7 Summer 2004

HISTORY

OURJohn L. Cooper III, Grand Secretary

In the long form of the lecture

of the Entered Apprentice
degree, the candidate is told
that “The trestleboard is for the
master workman to draw his
designs upon,” and that “by the
trestleboard we are reminded
that, as the operative workman
erects his temporal building
agreeably to the rules and
designs laid down by the master
on his trestleboard, so should
we, both operative and
speculative, endeavor to erect
our spiritual building agreeably
to the rules and designs laid
down by the supreme architect
of the universe in the great book
of nature and revelation.”

Thus the Entered Apprentice, if his

degree includes the optional long form of
the lecture, is told about the trestleboard.
If he is already on the lodge mailing list, he
undoubtedly is already receiving what is
called the lodge trestleboard. Since the
master sees to the publishing of the
monthly trestleboard, he quickly makes
the connection that this published
trestleboard is for the master to draw his
designs upon—in other words, to let the
members of the lodge know what he wants
the lodge to do.
The history of this term, however, is a
bit more colorful than this prosaic
explanation would indicate. First, there are
two Masonic terms that seem to apply to
the same thing—the trestleboard in our

Second degree tracing board c. 1825 London. Courtesy of

United Grand Lodge of England.
California Freemason 8 Summer 2004
SPIRITUAL, MORAL, AND MASONIC TRESTLEBOARD

American lectures, and the tracing board in third degree—the master’s carpet—was
the English lectures. The latter is not a lodge sometimes actually a carpet, with the designs
newsletter, but rather an item somewhat like a woven into the cloth instead of merely
chalkboard on an easel—with a separate painted on it.
board for each of the three degrees of The next step was to hang these cloths on a
Masonry. On it are drawn and painted board supported by trestles (the trestleboard),
symbols illustrating certain portions of the and then to paint the designs on the boards
lecture accompanying each of the degrees. themselves (the tracing board). A later
Both the American trestleboard (newsletter) development was to lithograph the designs
and the English tracing board have a common on oilcloth, and hang them on the wall of the
origin—and share that common origin with lodge room (the wall chart). Many lodges in
another American piece of lodge California still have sets of these old wall
paraphernalia, the second degree floorcloth, charts, although their use was discontinued
as well as a (now) symbolic item in the long some time before 1950.
form of the lecture of the third degree: the At some time in the latter part of the 19th
master’s carpet. century some lodges bought projectors and
All these things started with the desire in glass slides—lantern slides, as they were
early lodges to help the candidate remember called—and projected the symbols on the
what he was being taught about Freemasonry. wall of the lodge or on a screen set up for the
You may have heard the old saying that a purpose (four lantern slides shown at left).
picture is worth a thousand words. Our Today, in California, lodges can use 35 mm
Masonic forebears understood this, and when slides for the Entered Apprentice degree using
they met in taverns and inns, would draw colored illustrations to accompany the lecture
Masonic designs on the floor of the meeting of the first degree. Grand Lodge now makes
room with chalk—and sometimes with these slides available on a CD—convenient
charcoal and fuller’s earth, or clay as well. for use with a laptop and projector.
Our Entered Apprentice lecture still has a The temporary drawings on the floor of the
reference to “chalk, charcoal, and clay,” from a lodge have thus come a long way. They have
time when those were actually used at each migrated to floorcloths (still in use for the
lodge meeting. We also know, from the earliest second degree), to tracing boards (used in
records, that the newest Entered Apprentice England), and to slide shows—at least for the
was assigned the duty of mopping the floor Entered Apprentice degree in California. They
after the degree, wiping out the designs that also inspired a common name for the lodge
had been drawn there. bulletin, and ended up as one of the symbols
It was not too great a jump from these in the lecture of the third degree as the
designs drawn on the floor to the painting of master’s carpet.
those designs on a cloth, which could be laid And the youngest Entered Apprentice no
on the floor for the degree, and then rolled up longer has to wash out the drawings with a
and saved for the next time. The one for the mop and pail!

California Freemason 9 Summer 2004

M A S O N I C E D U C AT I O N

Freemasonry
and the Initiatic Process
John L. Cooper III, Grand Secretary

n common Masonic parlance, a

I Mason is initiated, passed, and

raised—he is initiated an
Entered Apprentice Mason,
passed to the degree of Fellowcraft,
and raised to the sublime degree of
Master Mason. Yet it is not in the first
degree alone that a Mason
experiences initiation.
There are multiple initiations as a
Mason moves from stage to stage
within a degree, and from degree to
degree as the mysteries of
Freemasonry are unfolded to him.
Thus Freemasonry may be properly
termed an initiatic brotherhood, a
system of progressive revelation of
information that helps the Mason to
understand more than he knew before
at each step of the journey.
But because this Masonic initiatic
experience has settled down over the
last few centuries into a series of
degrees, we often confuse the taking experience a spiritual initiation akin to teachings of Freemasonry, and having
of a degree with true participation in what Freemasonry is intended to passed through the same kind of
the initiatic process itself. Such, accomplish through study and spiritual experience that the degrees are
however, is not the case. meditation on the same teachings that intended to foster.
Initiation is not an external and Freemasonry organizes into its degrees. This subject is of more than academic
physical activity; it is an internal and In fact, Freemasons have long interest. A debate often takes place
spiritual activity for which the recognized this truth, referring to between those committed to our
framework of a degree or of many individuals who, for whatever reason, traditional way of making Masons and
degrees serves as a pathway. A Mason are not or cannot be Freemasons under those who believe that there are
may take all the degrees of our prevailing rules—as Masons without alternate ways of making Masons.
Freemasonry available to him and the apron. Their Freemasonry derives When the initiatic process is properly
never experience a spiritual initiation. not from receiving the degrees of understood, the arguments are not really
A non-Mason may never take any of Masonry in the traditional manner, but opposed to one another. Each is
the degrees of Freemasonry, and yet from having conformed their lives to the insisting on the validity of the initiatic

California Freemason 10 Summer 2004

process as a means of becoming a Mason. If they each laid all that there is to know about the preceding degree, and
their arguments side by side, they would find remarkable neither are the newer short form proficiencies.
agreement on the nature of the initiatic process and how They are both intended to whet his appetite for
one becomes a Freemason. returning again and again to what he has experienced,
The initiatic process actually starts long before a man making his initiatic experience the work of a lifetime.
knocks at the door of a Masonic lodge. In some old rituals Initiation is a process that goes on continuously. It does
a Mason is asked where he was first prepared to be made a not begin when a candidate knocks at the door of a lodge,
Mason, and he replies, “In my heart.” And that is true. but rather it begins when he first seeks out the light that
Unless an individual is prepared in his heart to become Masonry has to offer. It does not occur because he takes a
a Mason—unless he has prepared himself to be open to degree, or even if he takes a degree and memorizes some
learning what Freemasonry has to ritual pertaining to that degree. It
teach him—the degrees of Masonry occurs because his mind and spirit
will make little impact on him. The absorb the meaning of the teachings
monitorial marshal’s questions, asked Unless an individual unfolded to him through the initiatic
of a candidate before he is allowed to process. And it keeps on occurring
is prepared in his
knock at the door of the lodge, state it throughout his life, if he rightly
clearly: “Do you seriously declare,
heart to become a understands it, until at last he lays
upon your honor, that unbiased by Mason—unless he down his working tools for the final
friends and uninfluenced by has prepared himself time.
mercenary motives, you freely and Initiation is not merely a
to be open to learning
voluntarily offer yourself as a beginning. It is a series of beginnings
candidate for the mysteries of what Freemasonry that occurs many times in a single
Masonry?” A candidate must be ready has to teach him—the degree, and many times as various
to learn in order to be truly prepared rites and degrees unfold new vistas
degrees of Masonry
for what he will experience through to his understanding. It is also not
the mysteries of Masonry.
will make little necessarily linear. Progressive does
Our degrees nowadays are laid out impact on him. not always imply forward movement
in sections. Although we require in one direction. It can mean a
certain proficiency between the deeper understanding of truths
degrees, there is initiatic progression within each degree previously understood, but understood in a new context as
between the sections of which no proficiency is required. the years go by.
That does not mean that we have no expectation that the Freemasonry is a progressive moral science not because
candidate will ever become proficient—become it consists of a series of degrees, but because it consists of
knowledgeable—about the meaning of the several a series of experiences that causes us to think through the
ceremonies which occur within a single degree. We do meaning of life in light of its teachings. Freemasonry is an
expect him to work on becoming knowledgeable about the initiatic fraternity not because it confers three degrees on
experience through a lifetime of learning about the three separate nights, but because it brings a man into
meaning of those ceremonies. contact with a fresh understanding of ultimate reality
And that is true for all the degrees of Masonry, through a series of steps.
regardless of how much we require him to memorize and In the final analysis, it is not whether a Mason became one
recite in lodge between the degrees. The old long form in a single day, a single year, or a single decade. It is whether
proficiencies were never intended to teach the candidate he becomes a Mason through a lifetime of initiation.

Freemason 11 Spring
California Freemason Summer2004
2004
COVER STORY

John
John Vantuno,
Vantuno, who
who became
became aa Mason
Mason in in aa
one-day
one-day class
class in
in New
New Jersey
Jersey and
and
subsequently
subsequently became
became very
very active
active in
in his
his
California
California lodge
lodge and
and community,
community, enjoys
enjoys
launching
launching model
model rockets
rockets in
in his
his spare
spare time.
time.

California Freemason 12 Summer 2004

 AIMING
FOR THE
STARS
Masonic ritual isn’t rocket science. Just ask John
Vantuno, past master of Willow Glen Fraternity Lodge No.
399 in San Jose. He should know: He’s A rocket scientist.

By Richard Berman
Vantuno feel like he had a home away

I
n today’s mobile society, it is more brothers at the Grand Lodge of New
and more common for Masons to from home. Jersey for a one-day conferral of the three
move from city to city, or even to new After graduating from Penn State with degrees of Masonry. “This was offered as
countries. The rituals of the craft vary all a degree in aerospace engineering, a way to make you feel like you belong
over the world, and it is not unusual for Vantuno returned to his home state of and attend lodge meetings right off the
new brothers to have a variety of New Jersey in 1994. He began to develop bat, rather than having to wait to
practices that may seem out of place in an interest in Freemasonry through his participate in the ceremonies and
their new lodges. lifelong friend Bill Johnson and his father business.”
For John Vantuno, as a transplant from Brian, who were both active Masons in Throughout the day the candidates
New Jersey, the major difference was how Newark Lodge No. 7. Vantuno spent received one-on-one instruction from the
he became a Mason in the first place. several months learning about the craft Master Masons and were taught the signs
Since 1998 Vantuno has been a systems before deciding to apply to become a and modes of recognition for each
engineer at Lockheed Martin in Mason. degree. As the first, second, and third
Sunnyvale, where he works on the U.S. “I knew a little bit about the Masons degrees were conferred on a single
DOD Missile Defense Agency’s Therminal through my friend and his father,” he initiate at the front of the hall, all of the
High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) says. “I tried to arrange a time to go to the new Masons recited the oaths together.
ballistic missile defense program. When lodge, but I was told to wait a few weeks The entire program took about eight
he moved to northern California, he did for a ‘special event.’” hours, and all 200 initiates were raised
not know anyone in the area. That day came in January 1998, when together to the degree of Master Mason.
Nevertheless, the local Freemasons made Vantuno joined 200 other potential One-day conferrals are being adopted
continued on page 14

California Freemason 13 Summer 2004

COVER STORY

“For me, being a Mason has helped me to create a tie to my community,

even when I’m in a new place,” he says. “I felt immediately welcome here
in California, even though I’m far from where I grew up.”

with increasing frequency by grand basic Masonic education. Fortunately, move. This time it was for his dream
lodges throughout the United States his friend Brian Johnson, past district job with Lockheed Martin in
that are looking to increase their ranks deputy grand master, made sure he California. “The job was perfect for
and get new members involved in knew the Tiler’s Oath to ensure that he me, and even though I didn’t want to
their local lodges from day one. Once would be able to enter other lodges. relocate, it was just too good an
they are raised as Master Masons, the Upon arriving at the lodge in opportunity to pass up.”
new brothers are expected to return to Denver, he was fully accepted by the Arriving in the Bay Area during the
their local lodges for more in-depth Denver brothers, and he became an tech boom was a jarring experience for
training in the rituals of the craft. active member in the lodge. “I left New the New Jersey native. It was also a
As it turns out, Vantuno did not Jersey expecting to spend the rest of lonely time, as he was among strangers
have time to go back to his home my life in Colorado. I had always for the second time in eight months.
lodge: His bags were already packed wanted to live there—I really didn’t Once in San Jose, Vantuno joined
for a move to Denver less than 24 expect to leave,” Vantuno says. Willow Glen Lodge No. 676.
hours later! His intention was to join a After less than a year in Denver, “For me, being a Mason has helped
lodge in Colorado and complete his however, he was once again on the me to create a tie to my community,

California Freemason 14 Summer 2004

 HISTORY

even when I’m in a new place,” he says. parents identification sheets of their
“I felt immediately welcome here in children that can be used by police if a
California, even though I’m far from child goes missing.
where I grew up.” Willow Glen Fraternity Lodge also
In fact, he still maintains his offers an annual college scholarship,
membership in his New Jersey lodge, worth $800, for high school students
which is also home to a well-known who enter an essay contest. All entries
Mason who worked with rockets: Neil must focus on the U.S. Constitution and
Armstrong. In fact, the Grand Lodge of are judged by several brothers who are
John Vantuno’s best friend Bill Johnson and Bill’s
New Jersey has a moon rock that the high school teachers. In its first year
father Brian Johnson, past district deputy grand
astronaut brought back with him in there was only one entry; several dozen master of New Jersey, flew to California to
1969. Vantuno wryly notes that the are expected in 2004 as a result of the install John as master of Willow Glen Fraternity
Lodge No. 399 in San Jose in 2002.
stone actually belongs to Essex Lodge lodge’s outreach efforts in San Jose
No. 7, but that the Grand Lodge took it schools.
“for safekeeping.” I have been a committed member of the
Vantuno became an active member in fraternity, and my brothers have never
Willow Glen Fraternity Lodge No. 399 “By being part treated me as anything other than one
immediately upon arrival, and by 1999 he of their own. Over the last seven years as
had been appointed senior steward. After of the weekly a Freemason I have gained a great deal
serving as senior deacon, junior warden, of knowledge, and I credit the
and senior warden, Vantuno became
meetings and Freemasons for being such an
master in 2003, shortly after the lodge’s raising Master important part of my life.”
merger with Fraternity Lodge No. 399. Despite having gone through the one-
“Jumping into the officer line was a Masons myself, day class in New Jersey, rather than the
great way to increase my Masonic traditional method, Vantuno does not
I developed an
knowledge quickly,” Vantuno recalls. “By feel that he has been treated differently
being part of the weekly meetings and incredible by Masons in California. “There is
raising Master Masons myself, I definitely some surprise when I tell
developed an incredible
appreciation people about my path to Masonry, but
appreciation for what the for what the I’ve found that people have been
candidates have to do.” nothing but supportive.”
Under his direction, Willow candidates After holding lodge leadership
Glen Fraternity Lodge—which positions for most of his Masonic life,
merged just before he
have to do.”
Vantuno is enjoying being outside of the
became master — officer line for the first time since 1999.
sponsored a tee-ball team Vantuno credits his one-day conferral Although he does not rule out
for local youth (Vantuno program as being a critical turning involvement at the district level in the
claims that it was a point in his life. With his moves from future, for the time being he is content
coincidence that the squad New Jersey to Colorado to California in to help the Yankees tee-ball team and
was called the Yankees, his 1998, in all probability he would not work with local schools to support the
favorite Major League team). have had the opportunity to become a Kids ID program in San Jose. “Being a
The lodge also sponsors the Mason until later—if ever. Mason is a huge part of who I am, and I
Kids ID program, working “On one hand, I feel that I missed out am grateful for the opportunity to have
with local schools to give on a lot of the early stages. On the other, joined the craft when I did.”

Community service is important to John Vantuno. He is especially proud

that his lodge sponsors the Yankees tee-ball team.
California Freemason 15 Summer 2004
AROUND THE WORLD

Tout Les
Masons
du Monde
Observations of a
California Mason
in France
By Benjamin Auray

oday it is increasingly common for Masons to

T be part of several lodges in their lifetimes as

they move to new cities for work or family
reasons. Benjamin Auray joined Crossroads Lodge
No. 696 in San Diego in 1993, but moved to France
the following year. After nearly a decade overseas,
he shares some of his observations about his
Masonic experiences.
When I left the United States to live in France, I was
24 and I had been initiated, passed, and raised the year
before in San Diego. And I was just starting to be active
in the line. I had been visiting several lodges in my
district and throughout the state. Although I had not
mastered the ritual, I felt very comfortable with the
ceremonies and the way they were conducted.
Once settled in France, I decided to get started as
soon as possible to continue my Masonic life. Masonry
in France is far more complex than it is in the United
States, and there are quite a few secret societies that
purport to be part of the craft. I had to do some
research among the dozen or so “grand lodges”
throughout the country before finding the Grande Loge
Nationale Française (GLNF).
In sharp contrast with the American tradition,
French lodges have a strict delineation between the
rites: In fact, it is unheard of for a Mason in France to
hold degrees in more than one rite. Within the Grande

Jean-Charles Foellner is the grand master of the Grande Loge

Nationale Française based in Paris. Lodges in this jurisdiction
require a candidate to write a research paper before being advanced
to a higher degree.
California Freemason 16 Summer 2004
Loge Nationale Française, 50 percent of lodges follow the common for brothers to spend more than two years—often
Scottish Rite, and only 5 percent use the York Rite. The rest of three or four—before being raised to the sublime degree of
the lodges use French Rite, Rectified Scottish Rite, Master Mason.
Emulation, or the Standard Rite from Scotland. The Masonic essays often include such topics as the
In order to determine what lodge would be most working tools, the trestleboard, the ornaments of the lodge,
appropriate for me to visit, I was asked what rite I was the three Great Lights, the columns, and the mosaic
practicing. I was not able to answer anything other than that pavement. They can also be purely symbolic, with such
my lodge was practicing the California Grand Lodge ritual, topics as love, the Saints John, the Holy Grail, or the rose.
as all other lodges in California do. When I was told that the They can be philosophical or even historical, and focus on
1,271 Lodges of the Obedience were practicing about half a topics as diverse as the role of the crafts at the time of the
dozen different rituals, I realized how limited my cathedrals or Egyptian esoteric teachings.
understanding was of Masonry outside of the United States. This method of showing proficiency on such diverse
As soon as I started visiting some lodges, I realized that topics is more subjective than the pure learning of the ritual
although the final goal remained the same, the means to as practiced in the lodges. However, it is hoped that in
achieve this were quite different. performing this research the candidate will learn, digest, and
Only about 25 percent of the lodges perform the work communicate the teachings of Freemasonry in his own
from memory, including the ones using the Emulation Rite words, with his own sensibility, thereby operating his
and the York Rite. The majority of the lodges practice a transformation.
different system that is often called “écossisme” (Scottish In addition to the purely speculative work required of
System). The ritual is read when opening and closing the Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts are expected to develop
their operative behavior in the pure tradition of the
cathedral builders. They are asked to visit as many lodges as
UNLIKE AMERICAN LODGES, ALL WORK possible to become conscious of the differences and

IN THE FRENCH LODGES, APART FROM similarities of the Masonic teachings that exist in the
Masonic world. It is hoped that they will complete their
PASSING AND RAISING CEREMONIES, IS
knowledge of the Fraternity, and will return with enough
CONDUCTED IN THE FIRST DEGREE.
experience before being raised and being responsible for
perpetuating the tradition in their own lodge.
Unlike American lodges, all work in the French lodges,
lodge, and when performing degrees. The true work of the apart from passing and raising ceremonies, is conducted in
Masons consists of writing essays (“planches tracées,” or the first degree. Entered Apprentice and Fellowcraft Masons
trestleboards), which are presented in open lodge and are considered full members of the lodge.
subject to orderly discussion. By its wide diversity of the rituals being practiced, the
Proficiency is not achieved by memorizing the ritual; Grande Loge offers great opportunities to its members to
rather, the candidate is asked to present a “piece of grow their knowledge of the Fraternity. However, this
architecture” to be read in open lodge. This has a twofold diversity is known only to its members. It therefore becomes
purpose: first, to demonstrate a Mason’s understanding of the responsibility of the sponsors to direct candidates to the
the ritual, and second, to enable him to elaborate on his right lodge and ritual, given their sensitivity and emotional
personal perception of the symbolism pertaining to the nature, in order to make sure that they will be most
degree. impressed by the ceremonies and that the impression will be
Following the presentation, a vote takes place among the a long-lasting one.
Master Masons of the lodge to decide whether the candidate Having lived in France for almost 10 years, I have had the
is worthy to advance to the next degree. Should fewer than opportunity to work in both systems (York and “écossisme”).
half of the members agree, the candidate is asked to present I am convinced that Masonry is truly universal, with one
another piece of work at a later date. It is therefore quite common goal: take good men and make them better.

California Freemason 17 Summer 2004

MEMBERSHIP

Pass It On
Helps lodges grow: Are you using it?
Will your lodge make five Master Masons
this year? Lodges throughout the state
are now using the Pass It On program to
confidently share the Masonic legacy
with others.
The Pass It On program includes a comprehensive
five-step guide to growing and sustaining a strong
lodge, as well as supporting materials which are
essential to the program. Some of the supporting
materials are described here:
The Pass It On card is a guide to having informative
conversations about Masonry with prospective
members, without soliciting membership.
The wallet brochure is a conveniently sized,
compact piece to give to people who want to
know about the fraternity.
The membership information packet, which
contains the Masons of California brochure and
application, can be handed or mailed to a man
who expresses interest in joining the fraternity.
The applicant information packet is mailed
immediately when your lodge receives an
application so that the applicant and his family
may learn more about the fraternity before the
home interviews. Two brochures are enclosed that discuss Masonic history, values,
philanthropy, how we’re organized, allied entities, and answers to frequently asked
questions about Masonry.
The candidate information packet explains the roles of the candidate’s mentor and
coach, the initiation in the first degree, and completion of the second and third degrees.
Membership development is critical to the future of your lodge and the Masons of
California. The Pass It On program is a valuable tool for membership growth and
retention, strengthening the future of Masonry in California.
To order the Pass It On program kit or reorder materials, use the order form on
www.freemason.org or call Grand Lodge Supplies at 415/292-9131.

California Freemason 18 Summer 2004

 MASONIC HOMES

Covina Children Learn Values

They Will Take into Adult Life

By Ann Lyon Dudley

hen children at the Masonic children. She says it is basic good There are also more formal ways that

W Home at Covina speak about

what they want to do in their
adult lives, many say they want to give
manners, and the children’s program
staff considers the children, their
parents, and each other their
the children learn about Masonic
values. Some of them voluntarily
choose to join Rainbow Girls, Job’s
back to others. When asked where that customers. Daughters, or DeMolay. Masonic
notion came from, one young boy said There are a number of ways in which residents who live on the campus serve
with shy pride, “it shows we care about the children are exposed to Masonic as mentors for the boys as their wives
what’s been done for us by the Masons.” ideals, according to Judy Figueroa, do for the girls.
The simple yet profound ideal of director of admissions at Covina. The Recently, children at the Home who
giving back captures the essence of most influential is the way they see joined Masonic youth organizations
Masonic values. During their time at them alive and in action through their commented that meeting the
the Home, when many of the children contact with adult residents and staff. requirements of membership could be
are rebuilding their lives, they have the Each children’s home has an adoptive challenging. But they felt it was worth
opportunity to observe brotherly love, grandparent, an adult resident who the effort. One young Rainbow Girl said
relief, and truth in action. They see that visits and sits with them during special she was learning skills that she would
these ideals can enrich their lives and events at the Home. The children get to use all of her life. “I’m learning to
those with whom they come into know an individual who has dedicated believe in myself,” was the way she
contact. himself to doing good for others. “And summed up her experience.
The three major areas of emphasis in that rubs off,” Figueroa remarks. A new member of DeMolay found the
the children’s program—independent The children also attend the Masonic group to be a kind of social safety net
living, social skills, and academic Values Program awards every quarter. that could extend throughout his
achievement—tie back to the Masonic “It’s a big occasion here,” say Figueroa. lifetime. “People are there to help you. If
core values. That is the belief of “John Howl does a wonderful job at the you stumble, someone will pick you up”
Executive Director John Howl, who says presentation talking about the Masonic was his youthful description of
the children are exposed to the values values in a way that makes them brotherly love.
from the beginning of their stay on the interesting and alive.” Thus, the boys and girls at Covina are
Covina campus and throughout their At the presentation the children learn continually exposed to the values of
time in the program. about employees who express a relief, brotherly love, and truth in a
Marissa Espinosa, director of the genuine concern for those in need and variety of ways. But the most persuasive
children’s program, is pleased with the go about helping them with learning experience is seeing them lived
fact that a lot of what is contained in compassion. Or, in another instance, every day by Masons and their wives
the Thank You Very Much customer they hear of someone who is always and the leadership and staff at the
service program recently rolled out in willing to help out when needed, does Covina campus.
Covina is already being taught to the not complain, and gets the task done.

California Freemason 19 Summer 2004

MASONIC HOMES

THE HOMEs
are indeed
Home to Residents
Masonic values compel Homes to constantly strive
to improve the high standard of resident care

By Ann Lyon Dudley

T
he highest level of individual
attention and respect is what
staff at the Masonic Homes
of California strive for as they carry out president of the Masonic Homes of
their duties. From their first day on the California, explains that an ongoing
job they are expected to be mindful challenge for the Homes’ leadership is to
that the Home is just that—a family seek ways to keep the concept of
home. The word “home” means Masonic values fresh and current for
different things to different people. To staff. “We want the values to be living
both the residents and staff of the ideals for all of us who work for the
Masonic Homes of California, the residents in their home. We always look
word means security, privacy, peace of for new ways to make that happen,” she
mind, and fraternal affection. explains.
The first priority of everyone The Masonic Values program awards
working for the Homes, from board employees selected for their
members to staff, is to make the commitment to Masonic values. Since
brothers and their wives and widows the program presents awards quarterly,
feel safe, secure, and welcome in a it keeps a spotlight on Masonic values
manner consistent with Masonic throughout the year.
values. It was, after all, a commitment Alan Gresham, chairman of the board
to these ideals that gave birth to the of the Masonic Homes of California,
Homes more than a century ago. emphasizes the importance of
Deborah E. Stebbins, executive vice constantly striving to achieve excellence:
“We need always to be aware that the
care we provide is done in the name and

California Freemason 20 Summer 2004

on behalf of every Mason in volunteers. “We wanted to make sure
California—past, present, and future.” everyone was on the same page when
Currently underway at the Homes we talk about values,” he remembers.
are three major initiatives to enhance Howl also feels the training gives
staff and volunteer awareness of everyone common skills and values
Masonic ideals and core values. for a diverse work force.
Administrators and staff believe they The first initiative put in place was
have always provided the best care to update the Masonic values–based
but are constantly challenging employee orientation sessions that all
themselves with the question, “How new staff members attend. The
can we better highlight the values that orientation was revised last year to
have been a mainstay for residents for further emphasize that working for Skilled nursing residents like Edna Creek
receive necessary assistance during mealtime
much of their lives?” the Homes embodies Masonic values.
at Union City.
The new staff is told how
meaningful it is to the brothers and customer service techniques. Howl
“We want the values to be their wives or widows to live at the says that many staff members shine in
living ideals for all of us Home. It is the safe haven of their providing services to residents, but
who work for the residents retirement after a lifetime of providing there was a perceived need to improve
in their home. We always service to others. They learn that relationship skills. Called Thank You
residents feel a bond with staff, Very Much, the program reflects
look for new ways to make
because for staff, working at the Masonic core values and emphasizes
that happen.” Homes is not just a job. A resident has the importance of being responsive to
recently been added to the roster of residents’ individual needs.
Robert M. Fallon, administrator at orientation speakers to personally The customer service content of the
Union City, says the latest staff make that point. program includes procedures to
training began last fall with a look at Last November the Homes resolve problems before they begin,
the Homes’ mission statement. “We introduced special training for staff in skills to empower employees to
wanted to examine what it is that continued on page 22
makes the Homes what they are,” he
recalls.
That special distinction was
deemed to be the spirit of the core
values of relief, truth, and brotherly
love. Brothers and their wives or
widows who had already chosen to
live at one of the Homes were
attracted to them because of a desire
to live among others whose lives are
grounded in these values. The
camaraderie they share and the
brotherly ties that bind them are
unique to the Masonic Homes.
John Howl, executive director of the Staff serves Elmer Carey in the main dining room for independent living at Union City. Last year
Home at Covina, says the leadership the dining room was renovated and a new director of dining services created meal plans that give
more variety to all residents.
decided to look at how these values
were taught to staff, children, and

California Freemason 21 Summer 2004

MASONIC HOMES

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Admission to the Homes

There are now three different payment
options available to residents of the Homes:
75 percent assignment of assets and
income, an entry fee combined with a
monthly fee, or a monthly rental fee only.
The fees vary according to apartment size
and level of care. No one is ever turned
away because of lack of financial resources.
If you or a family member is considering
applying for admission or wants to know
Virginia Marshall receives assisstance from Union City driver Jonathan Gonzalez when more about the Homes, call our toll-free
she returns from her doctor’s appointment. numbers: Union City in Northern
California, 800/342-2979, or Covina in
handle difficult situations before they escalate, and techniques to Southern California, 866/627-6642, or visit
get individuals who are distressed to reveal what it is that is really www.masonichome.org.
bothering them. The idea that every resident is an individual with
Masonic Outreach Services
feelings and something to contribute is constantly reinforced.
For seniors who wish to remain in their
The Homes’ administration and staff believe it is important to
own homes or in a facility in their own
personalize the staff training. With this in mind, a revised set of
community, there is another choice—
service standards for the Homes flows from the Masonic values.
Masonic Outreach Services (MOS). The
Brotherly love means treating everyone at the Homes with
MOS program helps recipients meet
kindness and respect. Relief is a way to feel relaxed and taken care
expenses by supplementing their monthly
of in a way that relieves stress and creates ease. Truth is telling the
income. The Community Information and
truth about realities of service and some of its challenges.
Referral Program can help those who need
In acknowledgement of the vital role played by the licensed
information regarding resources in their
nursing staff and nursing assistants, another program, called LEAP,
community. Trained staff can provide
is currently being rolled out. LEAP stands for learn, empower,
referral information on important topics
achieve, and produce. It is also resident focused.
such as housing options, insurance
The core values of LEAP are similar to Masonic values. The
coverage, and much more. For more
thrust of the program is teaching nursing staff that care is not
information, call 800/342-2979 ext. 1233.
something to do to residents, but something to do with residents.
Although the staff already displays excellence in their work, there Presentations on the Homes
is always room for improvement. The Homes have speakers available to
New dimensions of care and compassion continue to be added come to your lodge or function to speak
to the Masonic Homes of California. The board, administration, about the services available through the
and staff of the Homes believe the current staff training will make
Homes and other issues related to aging.
a difference in keeping Masonic values at the forefront of staff
These presentations are a wonderful
opportunity for the Homes’ trustees and
priorities.
staff to present timely and needed
This year, the Homes are reaching out and asking all of the
information, and also to hear directly from
California fraternal family to consider the Masonic Homes. They
the membership about your needs and
are invited to think about “coming home” to the Masonic ideal of a
desired services. For more information,
home as a place of security, privacy, peace of mind, and fraternal
please contact the communications office
affection. The welcome mat is out.
at 510/675-1245 or
[email protected].

California Freemason 22 Summer 2004

 Meet Juan M. Garduño
Artist
Mason since 1999

Faces of Masonry

or Juan Garduño, Masonry is an endless source the ceremonies and ritual open unknown doors through

F of enlightenment. “As with art,” he says,

“Masonry’s precepts contain a structure from
which one can create a productive and rewarding life.
which he can see that life is like a blank canvas and the
working tools are his colors. The choices the candidate
makes and how he applies those colors to the canvas of
It has width and breadth. I’ve had the honor of meeting his life will determine how his masterpiece will look.”
good men who willingly and unselfishly offer their time
Juan, 43, lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Irma, and
and talents to the benefit of all.” Juan is a past master of
their three children, Bianca, Krystina, and Cristian. He
Culver City-Foshay Lodge No. 467 in Culver City and is
works at Universal Studios in Home Video DVD
currently the grand pursuivant for the Grand Lodge of
Operations.
California.
“The most significant process of becoming a Mason is its
ceremonies and rituals,” says Juan. “For the candidate,
 Freemason.org has a new look
and new information.
Check out the new members center with valuable information
about leadership development, membership development,
Masonic education, fraternal support, and member resources.
The home page features current news items submitted by lodges
throughout the state and you can submit your local news. Check
back often for new stories.
The Grand Master’s itinerary can be found under events. See if
there is an event near you.
On the contribute page, you can make a donation to our
California Masonic philanthropies.

Plus, much more! Visit the Web site now.

www.freemason.org

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