Asbury Jordan Lodge #142

The December 16, 2011 C.P.C. High Point Elementary School annual Christmas Party was the last to be coordinated by the current committee of Bro. Cliff Gibson (a member since 1972), RW John Post and his wife, Mary (members since 1972), and Joan Stembel (a member since 1981).

We want to thank all the Brethren, Ladies and their families for all the help over the past years with decorating, serving on party day and un-decorating.

RW Phil Scrudato (Santa) and his wife Susan will take over the coordinating task and we, the former committee, will help as much as possible. We trust the younger Brethren will all pitch in and help keep this very rewarding project operating smoothly.

Thank you again for everyone’s help over the past 29 years!

Sincerely,
The Committee

I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to WB Marc C. Ippolito, PM (2009) and his wife, Stephanie, on the birth of their first child, Valentina Sophia. May she find all the joy and excitement in the world she deserves. Good luck and Mazel Tov!

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In ancient times, quarried stone which could be easily shaped into desired configurations, was called "freestone". Typical freestones are limestone and sandstone.

Then, as now, only after refining and smoothing these rough stones into their desired shape, were the stonemasons able to "fit them for the builder's use".

In the Fellowcraft degree, the Rough Ashlar represents a man's unrefined state and his need for improvement. He learns that the goal of being a better man includes spirituality of thought and striving for perfection of conduct. Via duties, expectations and obligations, he is charged to work toward these goals of self improvement.

As the Freemason "smoothes" his rough edges, internally and externally; he becomes a better man and, therefore, a better Freemason.

Once a man has perfected his ashlar to the best of his ability,... as Brothers to all mankind, it is his duty to help others become better men and better Freemasons.

Freemasonry has a glorious history. Flawed ashlars can bring negative feelings and reproach upon the Fraternity from non-Freemasons in the outside world and therefore, can have no place within its walls.

...That said,...let us not forget that perfect ashlars are not found lying about the stone quarry without benefit of their having been hammered, chiseled and polished into such a state of being.

It also holds true that "perfect" men are also such an anomaly without the benefit of Brotherly love, guidance and light. There are very few Freemasons who have not been in both the rough and perfect ashlar state-of-being at some point in their lives.