Updated DDGM visit list for 2025

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Brothers,

As we approach the new year and continue with the official visits of the DDGM to Lodges in the Suffolk Masonic District, we encourage you to support the DDGM and the District in attending the official visits. You can check the dates and any updated information on Official visits of the DDGM on the Suffolk District Band Calendar and right here on the Suffolk Masonic District Website -> EVENTS

The updated Official visits of the DDGM for 2025:

Connetquot Lodge #838 – January 13th, 2025

Amityville Lodge #977 – February 4th, 2025

Smithtown Lodge #1127 – February 12th, 2025

Riverhead Lodge #645 – February 18th, 2025

Dongan Patent Lodge #1134 – March 13th, 2025

Peconic Lodge #349 – March 19th, 2025

Babylon Lodge #793 – April 9th, 2025

Another The Battle Within Foundation Bench dedicated

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The Suffolk Masonic District and Suffolk Post 23 MWV dedicate a bench for the Battle Within Foundation at the West Sayville Golf Course and Lt. Michale Murphy Navy Seal Museum.

The bench was placed and dedicated by the Suffolk District teams, led by R:.W:. Robert Licata, DDGM of the Suffolk Masonic District and members of Suffolk Post 23, MWV.

The LT Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum tells the story, sacrifices, and legacies of the Special Operators of Naval Special Warfare Command from the frogman and Underwater Demolition teams of WWII and Korea to the birth of the SEALs in Vietnam, the War on Terror, Operation Redwings, and an exhibition hall dedicated solely to the SEAL Training program.

The Battle Within Foundation:
In the past 40+ years, since the end of the Vietnam War, we have lost more American heroes due to suicide than all foreign wars and conflicts in that time period combined. Despite the very best efforts of family, friends, the VA, and scores of highly dedicated veteran-based organizations, approximately 20 veterans each day are lost to us due to complications from wounds and injuries we cannot see.

That’s 7200 brave men and women a year who volunteered, stood on the yellow footprints and swore an oath to God to protect and defend our country. They proved this commitment, many seeing and experiencing the unimaginable in our name. Unfortunately, they made it through one war, only to come home to fight another.

 

The Battle Within Foundation has been at the forefront of Veteran PTSD research and assistance to troubled veterans.
Supporting veterans in crisis, educating the public, and honoring our heroes for their service, regardless of where they died.

November 2024: From the Secretary’s Desk

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Brethren,

As our calendar year comes to a close, the administrative work of 2025 is starting to ramp up.  As I prepare to send out dues notices amongst other activities, please reach out to update addresses, preferred email addresses, or phone numbers.

In addition, as it has been several years since we reviewed our bylaws, please consider reviewing the most recent copy and put forth any changes that you think would benefit the Lodge.  In conjunction with the Worshipful Master, officers and trustees, amendments as needed should be implemented in the next calendar year.

Finally Brethren, as of the time of this writing, the Lodge has 82 Master Masons.  This is down nearly 20% in a very short time.  While I do not think we should be trying to build a line at the West Gate haphazardly, we all likely know good men in our social or civic circles that would only benefit from our beloved Craft.  Keep this in mind as we move forward.

 

Fraternal Regards,

W:. Scott K. Parry

Secretary – Smithtown Lodge No. 1127

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November 2024: From the East

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As we move into November, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the camaraderie and commitment that each of you brings to our Lodge. The past few months have been filled with engaging programs and meaningful discussions, and I appreciate your active participation in making our Lodge a vibrant community.

 

This month, we have some important events on the horizon. First, I encourage you to mark your calendars for our Masonic education program on 11/13, where we will delve into “The Evolution of Masonic Rituals”. This session promises to be both informative and thought-provoking, and I urge all members to attend and contribute to the conversation.

Additionally, we will be hosting a special meeting on November 27th, the day before Thanksgiving, to discuss “Giving Thanks in Masonry.” This program will allow us to reflect on the blessings we share as brothers and explore the significance of gratitude in our lives and within our fraternity. Your thoughts and contributions will enrich our discussions as we focus on this important theme.

As we approach Thanksgiving, let’s also take a moment to reach out to fellow Masons, especially those who may need a little extra support or companionship during this time. Your presence strengthens our bonds and enriches our discussions, and I encourage everyone to make an effort to attend our meetings.

Lastly, I want to remind you of the importance of attending our meetings. Your presence strengthens our bonds and enriches our discussions. Let’s continue to support each other and uphold the values of Freemasonry as we move forward.

 

Wishing you all a November filled with gratitude, brotherhood, and opportunities for personal growth. I look forward to seeing each of you at our upcoming events!

 

Fraternally,

 

W:. William Hanson

Worshipful Master

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November 2024: From the West

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Brethren,

With thanksgiving fast approaching we should all remember the brotherhood we all enjoy. Giving thanks to the things we have and hope to be generous in giving to those who worthy destresses brothers.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next stated communication.

 

 

Fraternally,

Edward Matuszak
Senior Warden

 

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November 2024 : Form the South

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Hi to all of the brothers of Smithtown Lodge from the south. The Lodge is still pretty quiet and we’re ramping up for a good year. We have one perspective candidate that has been investigated and another one in the works. It looks like we will definitely have two candidates for our first degree this year. Other than that not much to report. Things are going well and moving right along. I am planning to have two rehearsals prior to the first- degree coming up so we can give the candidates the best Masonic experience that’s associated with the ritual. The cigar and bourbon night went well thanks to Steve Koferl offering his house and we had a very good turnout. Be well, my brothers and see you at the next meeting

JW Stu Smith

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Want to hear a secret?

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There are many secrets and boy do I have a doosie!

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No cheating, you’ll have to open the post to read the salacious secret!

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The secret is: Peconic Lodge No. 349 still has the Suffolk District Traveling Gavel.

Ok so now that the cat is out of the bag, Peconic Lodge meets at Riverhead Lodge on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. Their next meeting is on November 6th, 2024. In case you were more curious you can check out the Gavel info right here -> Suffolk District Traveling Gavel.

Ok so not really a salacious secret, actually not much a secret at all. But a great way to bring attention to the fact that Peconic Lodge has had the traveling gavel since the beginning of this Masonic Season and no attempts to take it. One of the great aspects or benefits of Freemasonry is traveling my Brothers, and the Traveling Gavel is just a stimulus to encourage getting out there and visiting other lodges, meeting new and old brothers alike.

The Suffolk District is not that big, and if you imagine it, as a Freemason the world is open to you. In almost every country and where Freemasonry is allowed and flourishing, brothers are eager to welcome you as a Brother. Just like the District Traveling Gavel Brothers, there are some rules or protocols that you should familiarize yourself with before traveling abroad or even inter-state. But once you are familiar, it’s an experience you will never forget.

Get out there and TRAVEL brothers, it’s good for the soul and good for the Craft.

October 2024 From the East

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Brethren,

As the leaves change and autumn settles in, it’s time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us. October is here, and with it comes a renewed focus on our Lodge activities and community engagement.

I want to extend my gratitude to all who participated in our recent programs, “Rededication and Reunion” and our discussion on “Laudable Pursuit” .Much more important than the presentations themselves was the lively conversation that followed.. Your involvement is what makes our Lodge thrive.

This month, we continue with Masonic education. First, mark your calendars for our upcoming program “Why This Confusion in the Craft?” on October 9th. I encourage all members to attend and participate in the discussions.

For our second meeting this month, Oct. 23rd,we will be attending Babylon Lodge and their School of Instruction where the topics will be the First Degree as well as Observant Masonry, which promises to be both enlightening and engaging. The officers will open and close the Lodge, allowing the remainder of attendees to travel directly to Babylon. See the event details on Band for more details.

Lastly, I would like to remind everyone about the importance of attendance at our meetings. Your presence enriches our discussions and strengthens our bonds as brothers. Let’s continue to support each other and uphold the values that Freemasonry represents.

Wishing you all a wonderful October filled with warmth, brotherhood, and personal growth. I look forward to seeing each of you at our upcoming events!

Fraternally,

W:.William Hanson

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October 2024 From the West

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Brethren,

It sounds like the Cigar and Bourbon Day was a fantastic event! Despite the rain, it’s great to hear that everyone enjoyed themselves, especially with W:. Hanson’s culinary talents and the variety of spirits and cigars available. A big shout-out to Steve Korferl for hosting—it’s always wonderful when members step up to support each other.

 

Fraternally,

Edward Matuszak
Senior Warden

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October 2024 From the South

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I would like to give kudos to the Worshipful master and brothers of Smithtown Lodge on their opening and closing after we came back from the summer break. I travel to a number of larges since we came back to life and I give Smithtown not because I’m biased a 99% Grade on the way we handled the ritual opening and closing. Keep up the good work and we will shine like always. I’m looking forward to seeing two new possible brothers coming into the craft in the months to come.
J W Stu Smith

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