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  I was originally supposed to be Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on October 17, 2001, but that did not happen. I was earlier notified that on October 3, 2001, I was to obtain my Master Mason Degree at 7:30 P.M. at Concord Lodge #307 in Vienna, Virginia. We had a double MM Degree ceremony that night.
I was nervous (again), but still quite excited. I had a lot of thoughts in my head on how the ceremony was going to be like. Of course none of them were even close to being accurate. The ceremony was a BLAST! I think the "riding of the goat" was the most fun, as well as slaughtering the "sacrificial chicken", during the initiation ceremony. I am not sure if I was supposed to mention that "secret information" or not. It was, however, quite meaningful and everyone there was very welcoming. Afterward, everyone socialized and ate. It felt great to actually be able to call myself a Freemason. I felt more as an equal in Our great Fraternal Craft.
This is definitely the most unforgettable of the first 3 enlightening Degrees. I can honestly see why those "conspiracy theorists" don't like Freemasons, we just have too much fun in their eyes and they can't handle that. Jealousy breeds anger you know! Membership in Freemasonry is supposedly declining, I can honestly see that more and more people are opening up and joining, regardless of what the nay sayers believe. Especially young people. I see more and more petitions coming in on a regular basis. I also see many new positive websites regarding Masonry appearing online every day. Many people will disagree with me on this, but one good thing about the anti-Masonic sites is that even negative publicity is still free publicity! There is no doubt in my mind that mainstream Freemasonry will most definitely revive itself and come back even stronger with a larger agenda.
The ONLY regret that I have about joining the Ancient Craft of Freemasonry, is that I didn't join earlier!
 Being a Master Mason, I believe it's my duty to promote Our Lodge website; www.CherrydaleLodge.org. Check it out sometime.
On December 6, 2001, I was nominated to take my place, in the South, at the Junior Warden's chair, for the year 2002. This will be an exciting year for me, considering I was fortunate enough to take a Lodge Officer position so quickly. Feel free to visit my PHOTOGRAPHS page to see a couple of photos of my 2002 JW Installation.
On October 26, 2002, after many hours, I received my 32nd Degree in the Scottish Rite SJ. I am now a member of the Valley of Alexandria Scottish Rite, SJ in the Orient of Virginia. That was an experience! I "volunteered" for the 30th Degree ceremony and "WOW"! Masons sure have a taste for architecture.
For the year 2003, I decided to stay seated in the South as the Junior Warden of Cherrydale Lodge No. 42 AF&AM. Though I wanted to advance, I really wasn't ready. I had jumped to that position so quick, I had no time to really understand it. I am sure that by staying in the same seat, I will respect it more and have more fun out of it. Being a Lodge Officer is a lot of hard work, but a lot of good times.
Also, in the fall of 2004, I joined the KAZIM - Desert Sands Shrine Club. That was quite interesting, as well. Kazim Shriners are a very active Shrine club, with many members throughout the southwest Virginia area. The SHRINERS are an excellent organization with hospitals all over the country, which help disabled children and child burn victims.
   This page is owned and operated by Mr. Richey. This site is NOT endorsed, condoned, or supported by the Grand Lodge of Virginia or ANY other Masonic Lodge, Temple, or appendant body. Any and all opinions expressed in this page are solely that of Mr. Richey and does NOT necessarily reflect the opinions of Freemasons or the Craft of Freemasonry in any way. All graphics and designs contained herein are sole property of the Webmaster. Any copying duplicating, or reproducing without prior consent will be a copyright infringement and is punishable by law. ALL rights reserved. ALL applicable laws apply. Copyright (c) 2001-2005
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