TABLE LODGE -  1725 vs 2012

Friendship Tuscan Lodge #145 and Manchester Lodge #73

"It was expedient to abolish the old custom of studying Geometry in the Lodge, and some younger Brethern made it appear that a good knife and fork, in the hands of a dexterous Brother over proper materials (food) would give greater satisfaction and add more to the conviviality of the Lodge then the best Scale and Compasses in Europe"  so wrote Lawrence Dermott, author of the first "Ahiman Razon" (Constituions of Masonry) about the Table Lodge, published in 1756.

Today I am sure all Brothers will agree with the above writings. Thus the local version of Table Lodge, a truly ancient custom of Masonic Brotherhood everywhere, proved that the writings turned out to be a very wise decision. Over the years this has always been a wonderful time of Brothers getting together for a very social evening. The events have always included a great "feast" and renewal of friendships from near and afar.

The opening of the ceremony was led in true form by Worshipful Master Eric Hoy of Friendship Tuscan Lodge #145, and his corp of officers. As the dinner progressed, many, (that's MANY) toasts were presented by the craft. A special tribute was made for our Military masonic Brethern for W/M Eric Hoy's military service with "GO NAVY - BEAT ARMY".

The opportunity to visit with our Brothers that have been selected to represent the Grand Lodge of Connecticut in different positions and Districts, is a lesson for our "New Brothers" (EA's and FC's) to learn early lessons about the "ins and outs" of Masonic protocal. W/Bro. Gary W. Arseneau, DGM., W/Bro. Robert G Fitzgerald. G.Scty as well as several current District Deputies and Associate Grand Marshalls attended.

W/B Steve Spencer, FTL #145 , as chair of this event, served the Lodges and Brothers well. A dinner of roast pork or chicken was well prepared by W/B Dustin Wood, ably assisted by W/B Chris Ramsey and W/B John Pierce. The Stewards of both Lodges were employed to serve the festive board, and according to the "Oath of Office" when installed they saw to it that the Brethern were ably provided for, with food and refreshment.

There were  over seventy Brothers attending, representing every Lodge in the 6B District. The formal closing of the Table Lodge of 2012 was done in form by W/M Stanley Ostrinsky, Master of Manchester Lodge #73, and his compliment of officers.