Halloween is shrouded in mystery. Yes, we get to dress up in funky costumes – even better, we are obligated to put our children in goofy costumes too. Plus, it is OK to eat tons of candy. What can be better?
But, when I think about Freemasonry and mystery, Harry Houdini immediately comes to mind.
If you didn’t know, Mr. Houdini was a brother. He was initiated into St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 (New York) on July 17, 1923, Passed on July 31, 1923, and Raised on August 21, 1923. In October of 1926, he also became a Shriner in Mecca Temple. That same month, he died from peritonitis – internal poisoning resulting from a ruptured appendix. Appropriately, he died on the most “magical” day of the year: Halloween. For the next ten years following his death, his wife conducted seances on Halloween. This yearly tradition, dating back to 1927, still continues on Halloween day by members of his “magical fraternity.” So, if you get a chance to sit-in on a Houdini seance, throw in some Masonic words or phrases. Maybe you’ll get lucky, and he’ll magically appear.
This month’s meeting is happening this Wednesday, October 22nd. If the spirit moves you, please attend dressed in costume. There will be prizes for the best and weirdest costumes. Yours truly is dressing up too. Plus, we may revisit that silly “corn” discussion. If you were at the September meeting, you know exactly what I’m talking about!
With the holiday season approaching, please note that our November and December meetings will be held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month (November 19th & December 17th). Chief Justice Chad “300” Goertz has also scheduled his installation for Saturday, December 20th. I’m both excited and terrified by an event planned by Chad. You really can’t miss it!
Happy Halloween to all. Please be safe. Try to limit yourself to a couple bags of candy.
Yours in Fellowship,
Joey Lamberti – Monarch of Cinema Grotto
