Huachuca Lodge No. 53 F&AM Installs New Worshipful Master and Officers in 66th Ceremony

Sierra Vista, AZ – December 18, 2023 – On the evening of December 17, 2023, Huachuca Lodge No. 53 Free and Accepted Masons (F&AM) held its 66th Installation of Officers Ceremony at their Masonic Lodge. The event marked the official installation of Worshipful Brother Jason Cummins as the new Worshipful Master, along with the officers who will serve and guide the Lodge in its mission of service, fellowship, and Freemasonry within the local community.

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The title of "Worshipful" in Freemasonry signifies "Respected" rather than worship in a religious sense. When a Master Mason is elected to lead the Lodge, he receives the title of Worshipful Master, reflecting his role as a respected and esteemed leader among his brethren.

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The Installation ceremony, which has been part of Masonic tradition for centuries, was open to family, friends, and the community. It provided attendees with a glimpse into the customs and leadership transitions within the fraternity. Ascending to the office of Worshipful Master is no small feat, taking about seven years of dedication as Masons progress "Up the Line" of officers—a journey defined by service, personal growth, and a deep commitment to the Lodge and its community.

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The evening held special significance as outgoing Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Rayna Stanley, honored Brother Carlton Buscemi with the distinguished title of 2023 Huachuca Lodge Mason of the Year. This accolade, presented in recognition of Brother Buscemi’s tireless dedication to the Lodge and the broader ideals of Freemasonry, reflects his commitment to upholding the principles of brotherhood, charity, and personal growth that define the fraternity.

Worshipful Brother Cummins, in his first address as Worshipful Master, shared his primary goal for the coming term: to grow the Lodge and welcome new members. He emphasized that Freemasons are not invited to join but must express their interest and seek membership of their own free will. This voluntary process ensures that those who join are truly committed to the values and teachings of the fraternity.

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Once initiated, new members undergo rituals that have been passed down for centuries, imparting valuable Masonic lessons. Among the first teachings is the allegory of the rough and perfect ashlars. Freemasons liken life to a journey of transformation, moving from the rough ashlar—symbolizing the unrefined self—to the perfect ashlar, representing the polished, virtuous individual. Through self-improvement, reflection, and community service, Freemasons work to "make good men better," a core tenet of the fraternity.

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Huachuca Lodge’s impact reaches far beyond its ceremonies. The Lodge has been instrumental in shaping Sierra Vista’s history and community, with streets like Heggie Drive and Martin Drive named in honor of prominent Lodge members. Over the years, Huachuca Lodge has contributed more than $20,000 to local causes, including donating school supplies, supporting educational programs, and assisting graduating seniors.

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For those interested in learning more about Freemasonry, Huachuca Lodge holds its regular meetings on the first Wednesday of each month. The Lodge also invites the public to attend their monthly social dinner at 6 PM—a perfect opportunity for those curious about joining the fraternity to meet its members and learn more about the path of Freemasonry.