Bolivar Masonic Lodge

Lodge Stated Meeting (Senior Steward)
2023-09-11 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 Dark
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 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.
