A Memorable Evening at the Lowell Masonic Building: A Celebration of Brotherhood and Legacy
On the evening of Thursday, January 16, 2025, the second-floor hallway of the Lowell Masonic Building was filled with distinguished Masons, each representing various levels of the Masonic hierarchy. From the Deputy Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts to Master Masons, more than 50 Brethren lined the hallway, their presence marking a momentous occasion.
At precisely 8:00 p.m., Wor. Gregory Valari, District Deputy Grand Master, introduced Wor. Wayne Stanley The Chairman of the Committee. The Brethren, with military precision, came together as one and began to process into the Grecian Room. The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall as over 50 Masons entered, forming a dignified procession that spoke to the strength and unity of the fraternity.
A thunderous round of applause and cheers reverberated throughout the building as Right Worshipful Shawn Bernard Smith, District Deputy for the 12th Masonic District, entered the room. His presence was felt immediately, and the energy in the room shifted as the brethren gathered to honor the special occasion.
Wor. Wayne Stanley had the privilege of presenting RW Smith to the assembly, and from there, the evening took on a warm and fraternal tone. Wor. Timothy McLaughlin, Master of Pentucket Lodge in Lowell, warmly welcomed RW Smith and introduced his suite of esteemed Masons. Among them were several highly respected figures, including RW John A. MacLeod, Deputy Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, RW John C. Toto, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge in Boston, and many more prominent Masons from around the state.
After the introductions, the distinguished suite took their seats along the sidelines. Wor. McLaughlin then presented the gavel and ornamental chair to RW Smith, officially passing the mantle of authority. RW Smith, with grace and humility, asked the members of the Grand Lodge to rise and be recognized. Half of the Brethren in attendance stood, acknowledging the significance of the occasion.
RW Smith extended the opportunity for a few words to RW MacLeod, who graciously accepted and offered heartfelt congratulations and wisdom. RW Smith then called upon RW Toto, who echoed RW MacLeod’s sentiments with equal warmth and sincerity.
The next segment of the evening saw RW John Van Kuilenburg approach the East, where he requested the use of the District Marshal to escort the past District Deputy Grand Masters to the East. In a moment of deep respect and tradition, RW Van Kuilenburg presented RW Smith with a very special District Deputy Jewel. This jewel, worn by RW H. Mark Leonard, held particular significance for RW Smith as it represented a pivotal moment in his Masonic journey.
RW Leonard, who served as Master of Pentucket Lodge when RW Smith was raised, quickly recognized RW. Smith’s potential and elevated him to the Senior Deacon’s chair just a month after his raising. Their close bond was further underscored by the fact that RW Leonard personally presented RW Smith with his Past Master’s Jewel, a gesture that marked the continuation of their shared Masonic legacy. Tragically, RW Leonard joined the Celestial Lodge in July 2024, making this presentation more meaningful.
The evening culminated with a heartfelt speech from RW Smith, followed by a delicious collation in the dining hall of the Lowell Masonic Building. The event was a true celebration of Masonic brotherhood, tradition, and the enduring connections that make the fraternity so special.
As the brethren departed, they did so with a renewed sense of camaraderie and pride, knowing they had been part of an evening that honored both the past and the future of their shared journey.