Harmony Lodge No. 21

F. & A. M.
LOGAN, UTAH 84321


2024 Annual Lodge Historical Report

The year 2024 AD, marking the 108th year of Harmony Lodge No. 21, has been an exceptional one for our Lodge and its Brothers. Under the leadership of Worshipful Brother Matthew Harris, the focus was on brotherhood, enhancing the membership experience, creating opportunities for growth outside of stated and degree meetings, and fostering connections with Masonic appendant bodies. The Lodge continued to prioritize charity, Masonic education, and the application of teachings from the tracing board, as illuminated in the Volume of Sacred Law prepared by the Grand Architect of the Universe.

Masonic Builder Award

At the beginning of the year, the Lodge set an ambitious goal: achieving the Grand Lodge’s prestigious Masonic Builder Award, a recognition we had not received since 2016. Officers and members planned meticulously, ensuring the Lodge met the award’s requirements. These efforts included visiting other lodges in the district, participating in and learning from degree teams, maintaining a well-planned fiscal budget, and fostering a sense of camaraderie through shared goals and enjoyable activities. In December, we were delighted to learn that our application for the award was approved. This honor will be formally presented during the 2025 Grand Communications.

Mark Master Mason Degree

On March 2nd, Brothers Aaron Kunz and Gary Roberts attended the Mark Master Mason degree held at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple. Following the ceremony, they conducted a self-guided tour of the historic building, immersing themselves in its rich history and unique spirit.

Order of the Bath

Worshipful Brother Tim Fellows and Brother Gary Roberts participated in the Masonic Order of the Bath ceremony at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple. The event provided an opportunity for camaraderie and light-hearted laughter with Brothers from across the Grand Lodge of Utah’s jurisdiction.

50-Year Pin Presentation

In March, the Lodge hosted a special meeting to honor Brother Lloyd E. Harris with his 50-year pin. Raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on October 24, 1973, in Victorville Lodge No. 634, Brother Harris has been a quiet yet impactful presence in our Lodge. A Marine veteran, he exemplifies the values of Masonry. The ceremony, held on March 26th, was conducted by his son, Worshipful Brother Matthew Harris, and attended by Brother Harris’s family. It was a beautiful and inspiring event, celebrating a lifetime of service and dedication.

Mrs. Utah American 2023 Visit

One of the most well-attended events of the year was the April visit from Mrs. Utah American 2023. Following dinner in the banquet room, members and guests gathered in the Lodge room to hear her speak. She shared her powerful personal story of being kidnapped by cartel members in Mexico, her eventual ransom and release, and her ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking. She highlighted the devastating role of trafficked individuals used as drug mules and the loss of innocent lives. Her message to youth was especially poignant: the drugs being consumed today are tainted with the blood of those who suffer to bring them into the country. Worshipful Brother Harris thanked her for her inspiring discourse and her advocacy.

Service Project

In May, several Brothers dedicated a day to trimming and removing trees from the yard of a Brother facing significant health challenges. Unable to secure help from his local ecclesiastical organization, the Lodge stepped in to assist. The day involved hard work, multiple trips to the landfill, and, most importantly, fulfilling a Brother’s need. The shared effort strengthened the bonds among the participants and exemplified the spirit of Masonic service.

Grand Master’s Visitation

The June visitation of the Grand Master was a historic occasion, with most of the Grand Line and several Past Grand Masters present—an event not seen in many years in our northern lodge room. The Lodge was opened and then called to rest so all could share a meal in the dining room. Following Masonic protocol, the Grand Master and his officers were introduced and seated, and the gavel was tendered to the Grand Master to preside over the meeting.

The Worshipful Master’s report prompted lively discussions on the Lodge’s activities and areas of concern, with Brothers gaining valuable insights. The Grand Orator’s address and an educational presentation by the Senior Warden were well-received. Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master Brother Joseph Milner shared his plans for a visitation in June 2025, expressing his appreciation for our efforts and his readiness to offer support.

Corrine Lodge Oyster Fry

In November, several Brothers attended the annual Oyster Fry at Corrine Lodge No. 5. The event was, as always, a lively and enjoyable occasion filled with fellowship and excellent food.

Collaboration with Corrine Lodge No. 5

Harmony Lodge continued its longstanding relationship with Corrine Lodge No. 5. Members attended Corrine Lodge’s stated meetings late in the year, strengthening ties and renewing friendships. The Lodge also assisted with Corrine’s officer installation in December, with Worshipful Master Matthew Harris, Worshipful Brother Kurtis Payne, and Brother Lloyd Harris serving as installation officers at the request of Corrine’s Worshipful Master-elect. The ceremony was a memorable event, marked by the inspiring remarks of Worshipful Brothers Blair Hope and Shawn Milne. It was a reminder of the shared history and fellowship between our Lodges, as Corrine Lodge played a key role in helping establish Harmony Lodge in Cache Valley.

Visitation of Malad Lodge No. 51

Harmony Lodge was honored to host a visitation from Malad Lodge No. 51 of the Grand Lodge of Idaho Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. In December, Worshipful Brother Kary Peterson, accompanied by his Lodge’s Treasurer, two Fellowcraft Brothers, and a newly initiated Entered Apprentice, attended our stated meeting. The evening began with a shared dinner, fostering camaraderie and fraternal connections. During the meeting, fraternal greetings were exchanged, and the visiting Brothers participated in the proceedings. Worshipful Brother Harris presented each of the visiting Brethren with a Harmony Lodge No. 21 challenge coin as a token of appreciation and friendship. In return, they gave our Lodge an authentic Acacia tree seedling grown from seed purchased out of Africa by their Worshipful Master. The visit strengthened the bond between our Lodges and highlighted the shared values and traditions of Masonry.

Monthly Breakfasts

The Lodge continued its tradition of hosting breakfasts on the fourth Saturday of each month. These gatherings provided a welcoming space for Brothers, family, and friends, as well as prospective members to learn more about Freemasonry. The breakfasts were consistently well-attended and served as an excellent platform for fostering fellowship and engaging with the wider community.

At one of these breakfasts, guest speaker Penny Pritchard delivered an insightful presentation on the Order of the Eastern Star and their efforts in Utah. Her talk sparked interest in potentially reestablishing a chapter in Cache Valley, offering an exciting opportunity for future collaboration.

Other Activities

The Lodge organized several unique events this year to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and enrich the membership experience:

  • Lodge Date Night: The Brothers treated their wives and significant others to a delightful dinner at Beehive Grill, expressing appreciation for their support and understanding of our Masonic duties.
  • Vinyl Night: A relaxed evening where Brothers shared their favorite music on vinyl records, enjoying camaraderie and discovering each other’s musical tastes.
  • Documentary Screening: The Lodge hosted a showing of “The Masonic Table – The Art of Dining in Freemasonry” to explore the rich traditions and history of Masonic dining. The event prompted a lively discussion on how to incorporate these customs into our own gatherings.
  • Movie Night: The brethren enjoyed a screening of “The Man Who Would Be King,” followed by a discussion about the film’s Masonic symbolism and themes.

Degree Work and Membership

The Lodge was active in conferring degrees this year:

  • Entered Apprentices: 2 (Brothers Jesus Ramirez and Matthew Aston)
  • Fellowcrafts: 3 (Brothers Joshua Flansburg, Rick Major, and Cole Peterson)
  • Master Masons: 5 (Brothers Aaron Kunz, Cody Stoddard, Derick Morrison, Joshua Flansburg, and Cole Peterson)

We are grateful for the assistance from Gateway, Golden Spike, Unity, Oquirrh, and Corrine Lodges in completing several of these degrees.

Membership experienced growth, with five new Master Masons raised. The Lodge also recorded one demit, one honorary member expulsion, and one suspension for non-payment of dues. The prospect committee is currently working with 16 active candidates, offering great promise for the future.

2024 Officers

Worshipful Master:          Matthew A. Harris, PM

Senior Warden:     Seth B. Pritchard

Junior Warden:     Arbon C. Ransom

Treasurer:     Philip R. Henderson

Secretary:          Gary T. Roberts

Chaplain:             Aaron M. Kunz

Senior Deacon:     Kurtis B. Payne, PM

Junior Deacon:     Lloyd E. Harris

Senior Stewart:     Cody Stoddard

Junior Stewart:     Joshua W. Flansberg

Tyler:     James F. Bates

3 Year Trustee:     Timothy C. Fellows, PM

2 Year Trustee:     Gary T. Roberts

1 Year Trustee:     Seth B. Pritchard

Deputy Grand Lodge Lecturer: Timothy C. Fellows, PM

Looking Ahead

As 2024 concludes, we reflect on a year filled with progress, service, and fellowship. With peace and harmony prevailing, we look forward to continuing our Masonic journey and achieving even greater milestones in 2025.

Fraternally submitted,
Gary T. Roberts, Secretary

Parking Lot Masons

I saw this on Worshipful Brother Bill’s Facebook page today. One of the great reasons I love being a member of this craft.

I have had the honor and pleasure to speak directly with some of the world’s most influencial Freemasons; greatest Masonic Scholars and Estoric minds of our age.

All agree, “Real Freemasonry happens outside of Lodge, out in the parking Lot, after the meeting is over… that’s where friendships are developed, laughter is found, and some of the best esoteric discussions are had… long after the doors of the Lodge are closed … outside of those four walls .. in the parking lot…” – a quote from nearly EVERY Scholar I’ve spoken to.

Article for Camp Floyd Historical Lodge #205 First Newsletter (October 2023)

From the West

Brethren All,

It seems we, as a Historic Lodge, have lost our way. During the COVID pandemic, we lost our motivation. Our mojo if you will. Our purpose in being. Our attendance at our yearly election and information meetings the past couple of years has only had enough brethren to open on the Master Mason degree. Our latest Zoom meeting was attended by the stalwarts of Utah Masonry but those in attendance were few. We haven’t garnered many new members of any considerable number for almost a half-decade. We haven’t performed a degree at a Utah lodge’s request in many years. So why should we continue to be and not just turn in our charter?

The question was raised during our Zoom meeting. Why was Camp Floyd Historic Lodge No. 205 F. & A. M. created? Well, let’s go on a dive, shall we?

We must look no further than the proceedings of Communication of the Grand Lodge of Utah recorded in January of 2010 (a copy of which is located on the George Washington Masonic National Memorial website. It is reported here verbatim from page 102.

CONSTITUTION OF CAMP FLOYD HISTORIC LODGE NO. 205

Camp Floyd Historic Lodge had its beginnings with the first “outdoor” degree performed by Wasatch Lodge No. 1 in the schoolhouse of Camp Floyd State Park May 22, 2004. Wasatch Lodge continued to perform the degree at Camp Floyd through 2009. In March of 2009, the decision was made to form an historic lodge commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Freemasonry in Utah. This new lodge would have as its birthplace, Camp Floyd, Utah, the recognized birthplace of speculative masonry in Utah. On May 23, 2009, Camp Floyd Historic Lodge, sponsored by Rocky Mountain Lodge, was granted dispensation to form a new lodge, whose sole purpose was to preserve the legacy left by the members of Rocky Mountain Lodge No. 205. After Camp Floyd Historic Lodge was instituted, the officers for the new lodge were appointed and installed. For the next several months, organizing and special degree meetings were held to complete the requirements of dispensation. On January 29, 2010, at the 138th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Utah, the Grand Lecturer, WB Allen W. Record reported to the Grand Master, MWB Loyd E. Davis and the delegates assembled that Camp Floyd Historic Lodge UD had completed the ritual requirements while under dispensation and was eligible to submit its application for chartering. After the Grand Lecturer’s report, the Grand Master called the craft from labor to refreshment and prepared to Constitute Camp Floyd Historic Lodge. The brethren from the lodge assembled, surrendered the lodge certificate of dispensation, and submitted a petition to be chartered. The lodge was constituted by MWB Davis and the Grand Lodge Officers, and the Lodge Officer were installed.

Details of that wonderful day our historic lodge received our charter as a lodge can be found on page 25 of that same record. In attendance that day were most of the sittings Grand Lodge of Utah officers as well as 50 Master Masons, M. W. Brother Rocky Weaver, Grand Master of Missouri, M. W. Brother Michael A. Sutton, Past Grand Master of Idaho, and R. W. Brother Gary Desk, Deputy Grand Master of New Mexico.

Telling, isn’t it? Our Historic Lodge’s sole purpose is to “preserve the legacy left by members of Rocky Mountain Lodge No. 205.” What does preserving that legacy mean? It could mean many things.

Could that legacy be the retelling of some obscure part of Utah’s masonic history? Is there some part of our Masonic heritage that needs to be shared? It really could be anything if it is tied to our history as the Grand Lodge of Utah, which is the actual legacy left by those early masons of Rocky Mountain Lodge. If you have or know of something, write it up and pass it along to our historical lodge secretary/historian. Jot your idea down on a piece of paper and share it with a brother. It could be something as simple as how did Wasatch Lodge decided on its name, or how and why did two lodges combine to form Golden Spike No. 6? Maybe you know some chronicle of a great Utah mason who deserves some recognition for his extraordinary efforts supporting speculative masonry in Utah. Collaborate and research that idea out. Then, share your findings with the rest of us. I am sure we would all love to read it, and have it recorded in this soon-to-be regular newsletter.

Maybe preserving that legacy is participating on the Historic Lodge’s degree team. Put yourself on the line and put that Master Ritualist award to work by sharing your talent for a brother being initiated, passed, or raised. Take the degree performance to a new level by gathering the period clothing worn by those who served in Rocky Mountain Lodge N. 205. Perform that degree for our soon-to-be newly obligated brother in the period clothing worn by our historical mentors. Wouldn’t that wow the candidate and leave a lifelong impression? Plus, you get the added benefit of serving a sister lodge in need of your assistance. Maybe your bailiwick isn’t performing during the degree but coaching, directing, and mentoring those who will be presenting what the degree is. This could help to preserve this legacy as well.

Another way to preserve that legacy is via art. Do you have a talent for it? Maybe you are a painter and can depict some great event from our heritage. Copies of these could be shared in this newsletter, possibly placed in the Salt Lake or other local temple. What about a pinup calendar of black and white photos of all the Masonic buildings in Utah (past and present)? Something that could be sold as a fundraiser to support a beloved lodge charity. Maybe designing and building belt buckles is your thing. Have a challenge coin idea? Could something like that help leave a legacy?

Sorry for rambling on. I have so many thoughts. There are so many ideas on how to continue the legacy of Rocky Mountain Lodge No. 205. What thoughts do you have? How do we all continue this idea started by M. W. Brother John Liley, M. W. Brother Loyd Davis, and W. Brother Michael Moon? Please let your historical lodge officers know your feelings and ideas. This lodge has so much potential and such a legacy to continue. We need your ideas, your desire, and your determination to leave a legacy of legacy.

Fraternally
Gary T. Roberts, Senior Warden

Wearing a Masonic Ring

Masonic Ring in Sterling Silver ~ Cigar Band Style 027es - ProLine Designs

As a purely personal choice, many brethren like to wear a Masonic ring on their hand. Often, that ring is adorned with the square and compasses.

A common unspoken rule says that you should wear it with the square and compasses facing you (i.e., the bottom of the square and the two tips of the compasses towards you) before you make it through the chair and, once you have sat in King Solomon’s chair, reverse it and have them facing away from you. This is made to mimic the perspective you would have on them during your lodge meeting based on whether you sit in the East or anywhere else. Conversely, if your lodge positions the compasses in the opposite way (i.e., facing toward the master rather than the candidate), then it feels reasonable you could justify reversing the guidance above.

-author unknown