Bolivar Masonic Lodge

Lodge Stated Meeting / Meal (Senior Steward)
2023-12-11 17:30 - 18:30, 2023-11-13 17:30 - 18:30, 2023-10-09 17:30 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Bolivar Masonic Lodge, 311 N 3rd, Sanger, TX, 76266, United States
A lodge-stated meeting refers to a regular and scheduled gathering of members of a Masonic lodge, where various administrative, business, and ritualistic matters are addressed. Stated meetings are usually held on a predetermined schedule, such as monthly or quarterly, and they serve as a foundation for the lodge’s organizational activities and operations.
Lodge-stated meetings provide a structured platform for the lodge members to conduct business, discuss lodge affairs, and engage in fraternal fellowship. They also help ensure the smooth functioning of the organization and the continuity of its activities. The specifics of a stated meeting may vary depending on the organization’s rituals, traditions, and local customs.

Lodge Practice / Meal (Brother Acklie)
2023-12-04 16:30 - 18:30, 2023-10-30 16:30 - 18:30
A Masonic lodge practice meeting is a rehearsal or training session conducted by a Masonic lodge to prepare its members for various Masonic activities, rituals, ceremonies, and lodge procedures. These practice meetings are designed to ensure that the officers and members of the lodge are well-prepared, knowledgeable, and confident in their roles and responsibilities during actual lodge meetings and Masonic events. Here’s what you can typically expect from a lodge practice meeting in Freemasonry:

Role Rehearsals: Lodge officers, including the Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens, Deacons, Stewards, and other officers, practice their respective roles and responsibilities during lodge meetings and ceremonies. This includes rehearsing ritual work, movement within the lodge room, and proper use of Masonic tools and symbols.
Ceremonial Practices: Lodge practice meetings are particularly important for the preparation of Masonic ceremonies, such as initiations, passing, and raising degrees. Candidates may also participate in these practice sessions to become familiar with their roles and actions during the ceremonies.
Lodge Etiquette and Protocols: Members practice the proper protocols and behaviors observed during lodge meetings, including the proper way to enter and exit the lodge room, how to address the Worshipful Master and other officers, and maintaining proper decorum.
Masonic Rituals: Members review and practice the recitation of Masonic ritual work, including lectures, charges, and other portions of the degrees. These rituals are often steeped in symbolism and have specific wording that needs to be memorized.
Floor Work and Movements: Practice meetings include practicing floor movements, professionals, and positioning of officers and candidates within the lodge room. This ensures that everyone knows where to stand and move during different parts of the ceremony.
Q&A and Clarifications: Practice meetings offer an opportunity for members to ask questions, seek clarifications, and discuss any uncertainties they might have about their roles, rituals, or ceremonies.
Coordination and Timing: Members practice the timing and coordination of various actions and transitions within the lodge meeting or ceremony to ensure smooth and synchronized execution.
Review of Lodge Business: Apart from ritual practice, lodge practice meetings may include discussions about upcoming lodge events, charitable initiatives, and administrative matters.
Feedback and Improvement: After the practice session, members may offer constructive feedback to help each other improve their performance and presentation.

Lodge practice meetings are a crucial aspect of Freemasonry as they contribute to the precision, unity, and meaningful experience of Masonic ceremonies and meetings. These rehearsals ensure that Masonic rituals are executed with the appropriate reverence, symbolism, and understanding.

Christmas Parade
2023-12-02 17:00 - 19:00
Get ready for a festive extravaganza at “Christmas on the Square and Holiday Parade” in Downtown Sanger, TX, on December 2nd from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM!

Our enchanting event promises a day filled with holiday cheer, bringing the community together in the spirit of joy and celebration. Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with many activities, including delightful shopping experiences, delectable food offerings, and soul-stirring live music. Young ones can embark on a creative journey with crafting sessions alongside Mrs. Claus, writing letters to Santa, and bouncing away in the inflatable houses. Capture cherished moments with picturesque photo opportunities and enjoy a special reading session by Mrs. Claus.

With a holiday parade that promises to dazzle, “Christmas on the Square” is the perfect occasion to make lasting memories with family and friends. Join us for a day of merriment and festive enchantment!

Lodge Practice / Meal (Brother Hoffman)
2023-11-27 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Dark
2023-11-20 17:30 - 18:30, 2023-09-04 17:30 - 18:30
“Lodge dark” in the context of Freemasonry refers to a period during which a Masonic lodge suspends its regular meetings, often during the summer months or other designated times. This practice is commonly referred to as the “lodge dark period.” During this time, the lodge temporarily suspends its usual activities, including regular meetings and Masonic ceremonies. The exact timing and duration of the lodge’s dark period can vary depending on the practices and traditions of each individual lodge.
There are a few reasons why lodges might choose to have a lodge dark period:

Seasonal Break: The most common reason for a lodge’s dark period is to align with the summer months when many members and their families go on vacation or have other commitments. This break allows members to enjoy their summer activities without the regular lodge meetings conflicting with their schedules.
Maintenance and Renovation: Some lodges might use the dark period as an opportunity to perform maintenance, repairs, or renovations on their lodge building. This ensures that the lodge remains in good condition for its members.
Refresh and Recharge: A lodge dark period can provide an opportunity for members to take a break from their Masonic responsibilities and recharge their energies for the upcoming Masonic year.
Administrative and Planning Activities: During the dark period, lodge officers and members may engage in administrative tasks, planning for the upcoming year’s activities, and organizing events and initiatives.

It’s important to note that the decision to have a lodge dark period and the specifics of when it occurs are determined by each individual lodge. Some lodges might choose not to have a dark period at all, while others may have a scheduled period each year.
The term “lodge dark” can sometimes cause confusion, as it might be interpreted as something related to secrecy or hidden activities. However, in Masonic terms, it simply refers to a period when regular lodge meetings are suspended temporarily.

Lodge Practice / Meal (Brother Chegwidden)
2023-11-06 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Practice / Meal (Brother Kesseler)
2023-10-23 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Fish Fry
2023-10-21 17:00 - 19:00
A Masonic lodge fish fry is a popular type of social event and fundraiser organized by Masonic lodges in many regions. It typically involves cooking and serving fried fish, often accompanied by other side dishes like coleslaw, hushpuppies, fries, or cornbread.
These events are open to the public, and the proceeds are often used to support various charitable initiatives or to maintain the lodge’s activities. They are often seen as a fun and informal way to learn more about Freemasonry and its charitable activities while enjoying a meal and socializing with friends and neighbors.

Lodge Master Mason Degree / Meal (Brother Williams)
2023-10-16 16:30 - 18:30
The Master Mason (MM) degree ritual is a solemn and symbolic ceremony that is performed within a Masonic lodge. It is a central part of Masonic initiation and is characterized by its use of allegory, symbols, and moral teachings. The ritual conveys the story of Hiram Abiff, a biblical figure associated with the construction of Solomon’s Temple, and imparts valuable moral and philosophical lessons to the candidate.
The specifics of the Master Mason degree ritual can vary from one Masonic jurisdiction to another, and even from one lodge to another within the same jurisdiction. However, the core elements of the ritual generally include:

Symbolic Journey: The candidate typically undergoes a symbolic journey within the lodge room, representing a path of self-improvement and moral development.
Lecture and Exemplification: The degree ritual involves various lectures and symbolic actions that instruct the candidate in Masonic principles, including the importance of virtue, truth, and fidelity.
Ritual Symbols: The ritual makes extensive use of Masonic symbols, such as the square and compass, the working tools, and the letter “G,” each of which carries specific symbolic meanings.
Obstacles and Trials: The candidate may encounter symbolic trials, obstacles, and challenges during the ritual, which are designed to convey lessons about facing adversity and maintaining one’s moral integrity.
Hiram Abiff: The story of Hiram Abiff, a central character in the ritual, is often presented as a moral allegory, teaching important lessons about integrity, honor, and the value of one’s word.
Masonic Obligations: The candidate takes solemn obligations and vows that pertain to his commitment to Masonic principles, ethics, and the welfare of his fellow Masons.

The Master Mason degree ritual is a profound and memorable experience for Masonic candidates, marking their full membership in the fraternity and their recognition as Master Masons. The moral and philosophical teachings within the ritual serve as a foundation for further Masonic education and personal growth within the fraternity.

MWSA District 84 Forum (Breakfast / Senior Steward)
2023-10-07 07:00 - 10:00
The 84th MWSA is an organization composed of dedicated Past Masters of the current 8 Masonic Lodges in the 84th Masonic Districts of the Grand Lodge of Texas. We are dedicated to serving our Lodges and mentoring the Worshipful Masters, Wardens, and Secretaries within them.
The Masters, Wardens, and Secretaries Association is a way for these three officers to come together, share ideas, discuss lodge management, and collaborate on matters related to the efficient and effective functioning of the lodge. It provides a forum for them to exchange experiences, best practices, and information that can help improve the lodge’s operations and further its Masonic mission.
In some cases, they may hold regular meetings or workshops to address administrative, leadership, and educational topics relevant to the lodge’s officers. These associations are valuable in enhancing the overall Masonic experience and ensuring the lodge runs smoothly.

Lodge Meal/Practice (Brother Rouland)
2023-10-02 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Meal/Practice (Sanger HS Culinary School)
2023-09-25 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Meal/Practice (Brother Barnes)
2023-09-18 16:30 - 18:30

Lodge Stated Meeting (Senior Steward)
2023-09-11 17:30 - 18:30

Lodge EA Degree / Meal (TBD)
2023-08-28 17:30 - 18:30
The Masonic Entered Apprentice (EA) degree is the first step in the journey of becoming a Freemason. It is a symbolic initiation ceremony that introduces candidates to the basic teachings, values, and principles of Freemasonry. The EA degree lays the foundation for a candidate’s further progress through the Masonic degrees.
Here are the key aspects and elements of the Entered Apprentice degree:

Preparation and Introduction: Candidates are prepared for the degree ceremony by being provided with appropriate clothing and instructions on how to conduct themselves.
Ceremony of Initiation: The initiation ceremony involves rituals, symbols, and dramatic presentations that convey important moral and ethical lessons.
Candidates are guided through a series of symbolic experiences, representing their journey from darkness to light, ignorance to knowledge, and uninitiated to initiated.
Lectures and Symbols: During the degree, candidates are presented with various symbols, tools, and emblems that carry deep meanings and teachings. These symbols are explained through lectures.
Oath and Obligations: Candidates take an oath of fidelity, pledging their commitment to upholding the values of Freemasonry and maintaining the secrets of the degree.
Lessons and Virtues: The degree imparts lessons on foundational virtues such as honesty, integrity, humility, and the pursuit of self-improvement.
Candidates are encouraged to seek knowledge and to embrace the principles of moral and ethical conduct.
Fellowship and Brotherhood: Candidates are welcomed into the Masonic brotherhood, emphasizing the sense of unity, friendship, and mutual support among Masons.
Regalia and Apron: At the conclusion of the degree, candidates are presented with an apron that symbolizes their initiation and their commitment to the principles of Masonry.
Masonic Lodge Layout: The lodge room is arranged in a specific manner to reflect the journey of the candidate, with stations and points of emphasis corresponding to different aspects of the degree.
Questions and Reflection: Following the degree, candidates may have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions to deepen their understanding of the teachings presented.

The Entered Apprentice degree is an important rite of passage for individuals seeking to become Freemasons. It introduces candidates to the foundational values and ideals of Freemasonry and prepares them for further degrees in their Masonic journey, such as the Fellowcraft and Master Mason degrees.
