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 17th, 2023, Huachuca Lodge No. 53 Free and Accepted Masons (F&AM) held its 66th Installation of Officers Ceremony at their Masonic Lodge. This annual event marked the official induction of Worshipful Brother Jason Cummins as the new Worshipful Master, along with other officers, who will govern the Lodge and carry out the various duties of Freemasonry within the local community.

It is essential to note that the term "Worshipful" in Freemasonry does not imply that the Master is to be worshiped by his followers. In ancient times, "Worshipful" meant "Respected." Within the Masonic tradition, when one Master Mason is elected by fellow members to lead them, he is bestowed with the title of Worshipful Master, signifying his esteemed status as a respected leader of the Lodge.

The Installation ceremony, a tradition dating back hundreds of years, was open to friends, family, and members of the public interested in witnessing the transition of leadership within the Masonic fraternity. The path to the coveted role of Worshipful Master, the supreme authority in the Lodge, typically takes about seven years, during which Freemasons progress "Up The Line" of officers. The journey is one of charity, service, and self-sacrifice, aimed at benefiting both the individual and the community.

In a heartfelt conclusion to his term, outgoing Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Rayna Stanley, bestowed a significant honor upon Brother Carlton Buscemi. Recognizing Brother Buscemi's unwavering dedication to Huachuca Lodge and Freemasonry at large, Worshipful Brother Stanley presented him with the esteemed title of 2023 Huachuca Lodge Mason of the Year. This acknowledgment underscores Brother Buscemi's exceptional contributions and commitment to the principles and ideals of the Masonic fraternity.

Worshipful Brother Cummins first act as Master, was to outline his primary goal for his term in office—to grow the Lodge and welcome new members. Contrary to a common misconception, those interested in becoming a Freemason are not invited to become members; new members must express their interest and join of their own free will and accord.

Upon joining the fraternity, initiates undergo instructive rituals that have been passed down through centuries, imparting various Masonic teachings intended for practical application in daily life. Among the earliest lessons is the allegory of the perfect and rough ashlars. Freemasons recognize life as a remarkable journey from birth to beyond death. At the outset, we are akin to rough ashlars, requiring refinement and polishing. Progressing along this transformative journey, Freemasons employ the tools and lessons of the fraternity to refine themselves and assist others in their quest for self-improvement. The core objective of the Fraternity is encapsulated in the motto "To make good men Better," achieved through the cultivation of character, morality, truth, and justice—central tenets of Freemasonry. Engaging in acts of kindness and support for others becomes a dual endeavor, concurrently elevating one's own qualities while advancing on the path towards attaining the state of the perfect ashlar.

Huachuca Lodge's influence extends beyond its ceremonial walls, contributing significantly to the history and development of Sierra Vista. Several street names, including Heggie Drive and Martin Drive, pay homage to distinguished Lodge members. The Masonic fraternity continues to make a positive impact on the local community by donating school supplies, supporting reading incentive programs, school programs, and assisting graduating seniors. Over the past few years, Huachuca Lodge has contributed more than $20,000 to the local community.

Huachuca Lodge meets on the first Wednesday of each month and extends an invitation to all those curious about Freemasonry to join our monthly social dinner which starts at 6 PM. This dinner will provide an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in joining the fraternity to connect with our members.

For more information about Huachuca Lodge No. 53 F&AM and Freemasonry, please reach out to the Lodge Secretary at secretary@huachuca53.org or explore additional details on the Lodge's website at www.huachuca53.org. Join us on this journey of fellowship, tradition, and personal growth.

About Huachuca Lodge No. 53 F&AM:

Huachuca Lodge No. 53 Free and Accepted Masons is a venerable institution that has served Sierra Vista and the surrounding community since 1957. The Lodge is committed to promoting moral and personal development, charity, and community service.