• January 2023

Greetings Brothers,

Upon reflection, in past years, Brothers have used the words “Great Reverence, Humility, Excitement, and Trepidation.” I AM IN AWE to serve as 127 worthy men have served for 157 years, as Worshipful Master of THE Lake Erie Lodge Number 347, and I thank them for their guidance.

I congratulate Brother Matthew I. Alexander, P.M. on a successful year in the East, and as Principal for the 24th Masonic District School of Instruction. His dedication to learning was invaluable, and he will be sorely missed. Good luck to him and his family as they resettle in Australia.

Thank you to all the elected officers, appointed officers, and committee members, your commitment and support is greatly appreciated. Having met with you, I look forward to what we will accomplish in the coming year, as well as what you will accomplish as you move through the line.

In the coming year I would like to continue the traditions we have come to love and venerate, and if possible, bring back a couple that have fallen by the wayside. I have seen and heard mention the desire to bring back ”The Steak Fry” for years now. I believe that is what we should do. I enjoy traveling to see other Lodges. With our newly reformed 24th District, all the Lodges are within Erie County. I am going to make it a point of traveling to every Lodge in the 24th District at least once this year. I will inform you which Lodge(s) I intend to visit, and I invite you to join me. We will bring the traveling tool(s) back to THE Lake Erie Lodge Number 347. Lastly, I look forward to making new Masons, and seeing Brothers whom we haven’t seen for some time returning.

In the coming month we will have our annual program reviewing The Examination of a Visitor and The Masonic Funeral Service. If you are a newly made member or just need to brush up on your knowledge, I would especially like you to attend. We will also be holding an extra meeting on January 18th to confer a second degree. I also invite you to join me for the presentation of the New D.D.G.M.

In closing, thank you Brethren, and I look forward to seeing you at the January Stated Meeting. As always, if any Brother is in need of assistance, please reach out to me or any of the officers.

Fraternally,

John E. Fetzner - Worshipful Master

• February 2023

Greetings Brethren,

February is looking to be a busy month. But first, I will say it was nice to see everyone at the January Stated meeting. All the officers did great in their new positions. Congratulations to Richard M. Edder on being Passed to the Degree of a Fellowcraft Mason at the January extra meeting.

Brother Ethan R. Sykes, P.M. will be presented as the New District Deputy Grand Master of the 24th Masonic District by the Right Worshipful Grand Master, at 2 PM Saturday, January 28th at the Masonic Temple of Erie. This event is open to the public. I encourage you to join me.

At the February Stated Meeting, Brother Louis J. Ludwig, P.M. Secretary will present the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s Grandview System, and how it will help and affect us moving forward. He will demonstrate how to log in and navigate the tools provided by this program. Afterward, we will enjoy fellowship and lasagna prepared by Brother Richard A. Schwab, Jr., J.W.

The 24th Masonic District School of instruction will meet 7PM Monday, February 6th at the Temple of Erie. Western Star Lodge No.304 will be doing Business of the Lodge. I will here add, The Lake Erie Lodge No.347 will be doing the Entered Apprentice Mason’s Degree at the March School meeting.

An Extra Meeting will be held February 15th to confer The Entered Apprentice Mason’s Degree upon Daniel Lynn Peppers, Jr. I encourage you to attend and support our officers and soon to be Brother as he begins his Masonic journey.

A Valentine’s Day Dance is to be held 6 PM Saturday, February 18th at The Lake Erie Lodge Hall. Music and Refreshments will be provided, but you are invited to bring something to share. All are welcome. Reservations are not required but are encouraged. Please contact Brother Richard A. Schwab, Jr., J.W.

I invite you to travel with me to Western Star Lodge No. 304 to accompany the District Deputy Grand Master on his first Official Visit 7:30PM Tuesday, February 21st.

There we have it, a full month ahead. I will remind the Brethren that we, the officers, get together to practice at the Lodge every Wednesday starting at 6:30PM, or as soon as you can get there. Practice is open to all who wish to attend. If you would like to be put on the weekly group text reminder, contact Brother S.P. William Dunn, S.W.

And lastly, If you are not receiving the Call-Em-All telephone notifications and want to be added please let me know. Thank you, I look forward to seeing you in the coming month.

Fraternally,

Brother John E. Fetzner, Worshipful Master

• March 2023

Greetings Brethren,

As February comes to a close and March is upon us, I thank Brother Louis J. Ludwig, P.M. Secretary for his informative program at the February Stated meeting covering the basics of The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s Grandview system. It was very informative and based on the number questions and answers given it seemed well received.

I again want to congratulate and welcome our newest member Brother Daniel Lynn Peppers, Jr. and congratulate Brother S.P. William Dunn, S.W. on a job well done conferring the first degree. Thank you to all who attended the Valentine’s Day Dance, it was a very nice evening of conversation, fellowship, and good food.

At the March Stated Meeting, The Fellow Craft Mason’s Degree will be conferred upon Brother Charles Elroy Cook, Jr. As always, your attendance in encouraged to support our brother as he continues on his Masonic journey. Afterward, we will enjoy fellowship and a hot dog bar prepared by Brother Richard A. Schwab, Jr., J.W.

The 24th Masonic District School of instruction will meet 7PM Monday, March 6th at the Temple of Erie. The Lake Erie Lodge No.347 will be doing the Entered Apprentice Mason’s Degree assisted by Perry Keystone Lodge No.392. All members are welcome, and all Officers are strongly encouraged to attend.

An Extra Meeting will be held March 15th to confer The Master Mason’s Degree upon Richard Merrit Edder. I encourage you to attend and support our officers and Brother as he continues his Masonic journey.

I invite you to travel with me twice this month first to Oasis Lodge No.416, 7:30pm Tuesday March 7th in Edinboro and second to Tyrian- Commonwealth Lodge No.362, 7:30pm Thursday March 9th at the Erie

Masonic Temple to accompany the District Deputy Grand Master on his Official Visits.

I will remind the Brethren that we, the officers, get together to practice at the Lodge every Wednesday starting at 6:30PM, or as soon as you can get there. Practice is open to all who wish to attend. If you would like to be put on the weekly group text reminder, contact Brother S.P. William Dunn, S.W.

And lastly, If you are not receiving the Call-Em-All telephone notifications and want to be added please let me know. Thank you, I look forward to seeing you in the coming month.

Fraternally,

Brother John E. Fetzner, Worshipful Master

• April 2023

Greetings Brethren,

Spring is finally here! I am eagerly looking forward to the days growing longer and warmer. I can’t wait for the snow and ice to give way to cleansing rains and sunshine. Soon the trees and flowers will be budding and blooming. And then, there is the mud. I have two very large puppies who just love this mud. I’m sure some of you can relate to my challenge of keeping that mud outside. Let’s just hope the sun shines enough to keep the mud to a minimum.

I will start this month off with a bit of housekeeping. Our yearly dues are to be paid by the first stated meeting of the year. For as long as I can remember that date is then postponed until the April meeting. The April meeting is upon us; therefore, all who have not paid their dues will be suspended at the Stated Meeting.

I again congratulate Brother Richard Merrit Edder on being Raised to the degree of a Master Mason. I also congratulate Brother Charles Elroy Cook, Jr. on being Passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft Mason.

The 24th Masonic District School of instruction will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, April 3rd at the Temple of Erie. This month’s focus will be on Visitation and the Masonic Funeral. All Brothers going through the degrees are required to attend Masonic Education.

At the April Stated Meeting, The Fellow Craft Mason’s Degree will be conferred upon Brother Daniel Lynn Peppers, Jr. As always, your attendance is encouraged to support our brother as he continues his Masonic journey. Afterward, we will enjoy fellowship and refreshments prepared by Brother Richard A. Schwab, Jr., J.W.

An Extra Meeting will be held Wednesday, April 19th, to confer The Master Mason’s Degree upon Brother Charles Elroy Cook, Jr. Again, I encourage you to attend and support our officers and Brother as he continues his Masonic journey.

Last month, we traveled to Oasis Lodge No. 416 with the Brother Ethan R. Sykes, D.D.G.M., for his official visit, and presentation of a Grand Lodge Sixty Year Masonic Service Emblem. It was an honor to attend that presentation to Brother Duane E. Willey, P.M. of Oasis Lodge No. 416.

This Month, I invite you to travel with me; to visit, Tyrian-Commonwealth Lodge No. 362, Thursday April 13th, at 7:30 p.m. and Western Star Lodge No. 304, Tuesday April 18th, at 7:30 p.m. Both dates are official visits accompanying the District Deputy Grand Master.

Next month, we will be welcoming the D.D.G.M. to THE 347 for his Official Visit, Our Past Master’s Night Program, and The Presentation of Fifty-Year Emblems. The officers are strongly encouraged to get together to practice at the Lodge every Wednesday (except for Stated and Extra meetings) starting at 6:30 p.m., or as soon as you can get there. Practice is open to all who wish to attend. Let’s make sure we present the best program for our Past Master’s that we can. If you would like to be put on the weekly group text reminder, contact Brother S.P. William Dunn, S.W.

And lastly, if you are not receiving the Call-Em-All telephone notifications and want to be added please let me know. Thank you, I look forward to seeing you in the coming month.

Fraternally, Brother John E. Fetzner, Worshipful Master

--------------------------------------------JUNE 2021---------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

First & foremost, I would like to thank all the members & Past Masters who came to the May meeting to honor our Past Masters & receive the District Deputy Grand Master - as well as have some excellent fish. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all so much for making it such a wonderful evening. Also - I would like to thank THE Officers for their hard work putting THE Fish Fry together & doing such excellent work in THE Lodge Room during the meeting - I could not have been prouder of how well our Lodge looked that evening. THANK  YOU ALL!!!

As we approach our last Stated Meeting before being off from labor for the summer, I want to remind the brethren that we will be having events all summer long and we will continue to practice every Wednesday! I encourage all brothers to stop out to practice even if just to check in - or perhaps brush up on that degree or charge you used to be able to do without missing a single word; get that Masonic knowledge back into shape! We have a few officers working on being signed off on conferring the First Degree in Freemasonry & always need candidates & guides to help with practice!

Our June meeting will include a Masonic Minute. Our program will be downstairs immediately following the meeting and will feature an informative discussion on one of life's most important topics...beer. And who better to lead that discussion than the fine folks from The Erie Brewing Co.! I am sure they will provide evidence of the work they perform, which will pair nicely with the "ballpark cuisine" being provided by our Junior Warden!

Once again brothers - thank you all for our attendance & support at last month's meeting and I look forward to seeing you at this month's meeting. Also, thank you Ryan D Knopf DDGM-24 for honoring our Lodge with an official visit - especially on an evening as important as Past Masters' Night. As always - please do not hesitate to reach out to any of THE Lodge Officers if you are a brother in need.

Fraternally,

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worhipful Master

"THE" Lake Erie Lodge #347

-------------------------------------------MAY 2021-----------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

May has always been an important month for Lake Erie Lodge as you all know and this year is no different.  We will have the honor of welcoming the District Deputy Grand Master on his official visit to our lodge, which is immediately preceded by THE World Famous 347 Fish Fry – an event that was the first Masonic event that I had the honor of attending, even before being brought to True Masonic Light.  The fellowship of the fish fry is something I look forward to every year and know many of you do as well.  I am excited to see our brothers and of course have some of that famous fish that is the result of a lot of behind the scenes work by THE Lodge officers!

The most important part of our May stated meeting however is honoring our Past Masters.   In the January From THE East I noted my reverence for the Men who had stood in THE East of this lodge before me.  The great amount of respect, appreciation and admiration I have for them has only grown over the last five months.  I am proud to call these men my friends mentors and family, which is why I chose to use my middle name, Sherman, predominantly this year as homage to the Sherman family; who have been members of this lodge since its inception -  my great-granduncle James P. Sherman PM, serving as Worshipful Master of this lodge in 1915; reasons of which have proudly handed this name down to my son as well (no pressure Max!), you can’t know where you are going unless you know from where you came. Growing up in the small community which our lodge is situated in taught me the importance of what communities of this size mean to our nation – they represent the fabric of which our entire nation is held together.  There can be no doubt that Lake Erie Lodge #347 was pivotal in the lives of the leaders, builders, businessmen, teachers, farmers and other men who built and shaped this area.  It can be supposed that the success of Lake Erie Lodge #347 then is in large part thanks to the Men who sat in the East of this lodge – for which I will again say I am forever in a debt of gratitude – Past Masters, thank you.

In closing I would like to encourage the members to please remember to RSVP to the Junior Warden so we have enough fish to make sure everyone is adequately fed before we welcome Ryan D. Knopf DDGM to our stated meeting and honor our Past Masters.  I hope as many who can attend will and please remember that THE Lodge Officers are always available to help any members that may be in need – do not hesitate to contact us! 

Fraternally,

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worshipful Master

“THE” Lake Erie Lodge #347

-----------------------------------------APRIL 2021-----------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

         Many thanks to brother Lyell P. Cook PM for his informative and entertaining Coroners Report at our March stated meeting!  If you weren’t there, you missed out on not only a great program, but a great Irish-style meal by John E. Fetzner JW!  As always, it was a pleasure to see so many brothers in attendance and I really hope you all join us in April for a closer look at one of the seven liberal arts as told by two brothers who know it very well;  I am excited for Brothers S. Patrick W. Dunn and Andrew C. Martin to give a program entitled “Musical Masons.”  Maybe we will see some live music in the lodge room?  Following the meeting there will, as always, be fellowship and refreshment featuring BBQ Pulled pork.

We welcomed three new brothers as members of THE Lodge at the March stated meeting  by way of transfer – so please join me in welcoming Ron Bole, Bill Ramey and Brian “Coop” Cooper to THE 347!  Also, Brother Robert Gerlach was passed to the degree of a Fellowcraft Mason in an extra meeting - I would like to extend an invitation to our new brothers, newly passed brother as well as the rest of the members to attend THE Annual World Famous Fish Fry at THE Lodge, which is immediately followed by our May stated meeting at which time we will honor our Past Masters.  It is truly one of my favorite nights of the year and hope you all will join us for fellowship as well as paying our respects to those men who have proudly stood in THE East and made our lodge the place it is today.  Stay tuned to next months From THE East for time and cost, but THE Fish Fry and Past Masters night will take place on May 5th!

THE Senior Warden and Junior Warden had their tape measures out in the kitchen at our last lodge function, which leads me to believe they are ready to start making changes.  Brother Matthew I. Alexander is always ready for Kitchen Fund donations, in return he would be glad to give you the official 347 Lodge Coin!  If you would like to donate monetarily to the kitchen fund, or donate time, tools, or muscle – please contact THE Senior Warden!  Similarly, we are looking at a wheel chair lift to put in the entrance / library area to help brothers get up that set of stairs, I hope to have more details on that at the April meeting. 

The first ever “SENIOR WARDENS NIGHT” will take place on April 17th!  At the time of printing of this FTE, SW Matthew I. Alexander was still working on a plan – the SW will alert the brethren as soon as he has it figured out!

On a personal note I would just like to thank THE officers and members of this lodge for their participation and assistance they have given so far this year – I know that we have a great group of men at this lodge and The Masonic Virtues can be seen by those who see us.  I hope to see you all at the April stated meeting, hope that you are all well and please remember that THE Lodge Officers are always available to help any members that may be in need, do not hesitate to give us a call for any reason!

Fraternally,

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worshipful Master

“THE” Lake Erie Lodge #347

-----------------------------------------MARCH 2021----------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

         It was a pleasure to see so many brothers at our February stated meeting!  I hope that we can increase attendance in March!  For those that could not attend, a brief review of what we are working on right now follows; First and foremost, as Worshipful Master I have made it my goal to make THE lodge more accessible for our brothers who may have mobility issues.  As such I am asking anyone with ideas, tools, manpower or financial donations to please get ahold of me so we can get a committee formed and start to see some progress toward this goal.  Next – Brother Matthew Alexander SW is seeking input, tools, manpower and donations for the Kitchen Fund – if you are interested in helping out with that endeavor please contact the Senior Warden!  As you all know, the more help we have the easier it becomes to make THE lodge a better and more accessible place for us all! 

         This year we will see a return of THE Lake Erie Lodge #347 Golf Tournament.  It will take place on July 24th, 2021 at Beechwood Golf Course in Fairview, PA - there will be an afternoon tee-time, with a meal to follow.  Specific details including price are still being finalized and will be forthcoming in From THE East as well as in THE notice – if you would like to register a 4-some, or would like to assist in putting this event on - please call / text / email me and we will make sure we reserve you a spot, it is sure to be an excellent afternoon!

         Upcoming at THE Lodge, we will be conferring the Second Degree in Freemasonry on Wednesday, March 10 at 7pm upon brother ROBERT GERLACH.  As always, the more brothers present to support our newest brother is always appreciated by THE Lodge officers as well as new members.  The Wednesday prior to that, March 3rd, we will hold our March stated meeting which will feature a program that is both known and renown the world over – Brother Lyell Cook PM will present the “Coroners Report,” and you do not want to miss it!  Fellowship and refreshment to follow, featuring Irish corned beef stuffed boxty, vegetables and soda bread by John Fetzner JW. 

         As always, THE Lodge Officers and I encourage you to attend our weekly practice.  We meet every Wednesday at 6:30PM at THE lodge – it is an excellent time to brush up on or learn your charges, ritual and to help others do the same.  If you can’t make practice but still would like to put in some work, contact THE Senior Warden and he will make sure you are pointed in the right direction.

         In closing, I would once again like to thank the brethren who came out for the February meeting and look forward to seeing you all in March!  As I mentioned in January, we will be seeing a return of a lot of the favorite events this lodge looks forward to every year, as well as continuing with improving our lodge and making new members!  Until then I hope you all are well and please remember that THE Lodge Officers are always available to help any members that may be in need, do not hesitate to give us a call for any reason! 

Fraternally

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worshipful Master

“THE” Lake Erie Lodge #347

-----------------------------------------FEBRUARY 2021-------------------------------------------------

 Greetings Brethren,

         As of 1/13/21 the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has given District Deputies the authority to reopen lodges per their own discretion and our lodge has been granted permission to re-open, and re-open we shall.  On February 3, 2021 we will have our first stated meeting of the year – the program will be by THE Lodge officers, giving a refresher course on the examination of a visitor as well as one of the most important responsibilities of a Mason, which is the Masonic funeral service.  Directly following our stated meeting - we will have fellowship and refreshment downstairs and Brother John E. Fetzner JW will be making his finest lasagna, salad and chocolate pie.  As I mentioned in January, it is my goal to make Freemasonry as normal as possible in an a time of abject abnormality; THE officers and I remain committed to that goal and will do all we can make sure your lodge experience is not hindered by the precautions we have been directed  to take and assuredly and will be taking.

         I think that most would agree that we find ourselves in troubling times as a nation – times that seem to be defined by disunity and division, no matter where you look – even among some members of our fraternity.  I implore the members of THE Lodge to please re-visit your obligations as well as the charges of our fraternity in order to refresh the duties frequently inculcated and forcibly recommended.  Freemasonry has been the light in the darkest times in society more than once.  I would refer you to the “Friend to Friend” memorial in Gettysburg, PA as one example of Freemasonry being just such this kind of light.  Our communities are starving for men of character and principle to lead, elevate and ennoble mankind.  If we support society as a whole as we support one another – even if in the most inconsequential manner – then I have no doubt that we will once again lead our communities into a more peaceable time. As the saying goes, if you see something wrong and don’t correct it; you have just set a new standard.

         That being said; if you are feeling like you may need to brush up on your obligations and charges, or would like to learn some new work – we hold practice every Wednesday, beginning at 6:30PM at THE lodge.  THE officers and myself always enjoy specific practice requests!  It truly is my belief that our fraternity is and always has been a positive thing in the communities in which we share.  Its also my belief that we need Freemasonry and the lessons it teaches as well as the bonds that it forms now more than ever.

In closing, I hope for a great turn out at our February meeting – so we can begin the process of getting back to normalcy and healing our nation under the auspices of Freemasonry.  I hope that you all are well, and I hope to see you on the 3rd!

Fraternally,

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worshipful Master

“THE” Lake Erie Lodge #347

-----------------------------------------JANUARY 2021--------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

         It is with great reverence and humility that I pen my first From THE East.  The long and proud list of Men who have sat in the East of this Lodge is something that I keep top of mind at all times.  I am extremely lucky to have been taught (and continue to be educated) by the men that I have been surrounded by since being raised just a few years ago and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Past Masters and Brethren for their mentorship, education, leadership and friendship.  It has truly made a measurable and irreplaceable impact on my life, both Masonically and as someone in the community – and for that I am forever in a debt of gratitude. 

         It goes without saying that we are living in an unprecedented time both in and outside of the Lodge, which has produced unique challenges for us all – at home, at work, where we worship and here at THE Lodge.  At the time of originally penning this From THE East our lodge was open and my goal was to maintain it as such.  However, Grand Lodge has since closed all lodges, effectively cancelling all Masonic activity, until further notice.  My goal this year is to make Freemasonry as normal as possible in a time of abject abnormality.  We will proceed with degrees and our programs as planned for the 2021 Masonic Year as soon as we get the go ahead from GL and my hope is as many Brethren as possible will be in attendance – especially to make up for our somewhat stunted 2020 year – of which, I know Louis J. Ludwig PM had planned to bring back some Lodge favorites including The Steak Fry and the Clam Bake.  Those things will be on the agenda this year as well, but unfortunately with the ongoing uncertainty of things we are going to have “see how it pans out,” as far as timing.  We will update you all as soon as possible in THE Notice when scheduling finally permits.

         One event that will remain unchanged this year is THE Fish Fry and Past Masters Night which will take place on May 5, 2021 and my hope is we will see record setting attendance to make up for missing last years event.

         Unfortunately, it does not seem at this time that we will have a regularly scheduled January meeting, unless something drastically changes between now and the reading of this From THE East.  The officers and I are doing everything we can to keep up with the ever changing environment and rules surrounding what allows us to meet – which is a sometimes impossible task.  So I ask that some leeway be given if there is any confusion regarding meetings and lodge events as things change on an almost hour to hour basis at times.  I will make a Call-Em-All with all details surrounding our January meeting as soon as I have them.

In closing, I pray that you are all healthy, surviving and succeeding as best as can be hoped in the times we find ourselves in.  THE Lodge officers and I are very excited for this year and want to extend a reminder to all members to please reach out to us with any and all concerns or if you are in need of assistance – that is what we are here for.

As soon as we have the go ahead from Grand Lodge, THE Lodge will be open and we will be ready to run at full speed – and I hope to see you all then.

Fraternally,

M. Sherman Shollenberger

Worshipful Master

“THE” Lake Erie Lodge #347

-----------------------------------------------------MAY 2019-----------------------------------------------------------

"We are committed to excellence in our lives and we are not willing to compromise ourselves for the sake of popularity. One time, the great German mathematician, Karl Gustav Jacobi, was asked why he decided to spend his life at work in such an obscure filed. He replied, "For the honor of the human spirit." That is the reason why we as Masons, give our lives affirming our beliefs in moral conduct, brotherhood and compassion. We do it for the honor of the human spirit." 

                                                                                                                  --Stanley F. Maxwell

No one truly embodies the devotion and commitment to the Craft more so then our Past Masters. The road that so many good and worthy fellows have traveled to becoming a Past Master is a long one. From starting in the lower chairs and committing to support the Master and his initiatives. To learning the ritual and degree work coupled with countless hours mentoring new Masons, these men have shown their devotion to our Lodge. THE is so lucky to have so many active Past Masters. These Brethren have given so much to our Lodge and the Fraternity. Please join the officers and myself in honoring our Past Masters at our Stated Meeting this month.

Fredrick F. Wienecke, WM

--------------------------------------------------APRIL 2019-------------------------------------------------------------

"The secret of Msonry, like the secret of life, can be known only by those who seek it, serve it, live it. It cannot be uttered; it can only be felt and acted. It is, in fact, and open secret, and each man knows it according to his quest and capacity. Like all things worth knowing, no one can know it for another and no man can know it alone." -- Brother William Howard Taft

Brethren, we have had some great success this year. Our spaghetti dinner was well attended as were our card nights. As Brother Taft so eloquently put, "...can be known only by those who seek it, serve it, live it." I'm encouraged by the turn out for our Stated, Extra Meetings, and our weekly practices. As many of you know, my project for us this year is a revamping of our kitchen. So far, our efforts to raise money haven't been as successful as I had hoped. Enclosed you will find my personal letter requesting donations. These much needed upgrades will help moving forward to do more fellowship events in the years to come.

The mentoring program has been a subject of much discussion in the recent weeks. I believe that we as a Lodge have failed our newest members over the past couple of years. It is time to get back to what we do best - Making good men better through ritual and degrees which serve to convey and teach moral lessons and elevate the Brethren to a position higher than themselves. Brother J. Robert Taylor, PDDGM and Brother Lou Ludwig, PM are heading up the mentoring program. If you have gone through the degrees in the past few years and would like to learn more about what you went through please reach out to them. 

True Masonry is found in our degree work , meetings, and fellowship. In the upcoming months the officers and I will be attending other Lodge's degrees. I would encourage you to think about your experience in traveling that same road and what is was like to have Brethren there to witness it. For these Brethren these are their first Masonic experiences. Imagine if you will being brought to true Masonic light and seeing 30-40 Brethren there. Let us show the District what it means when we say "THE" Lake Erie Lodge #347! Please come out to support THE as well as our fellow Lodges. 

Fredrick F. Wienecke, WM

-------------------------------------------------MARCH 2019-----------------------------------------------------------

Last month I spoke about fellowship being key in the success of our Lodge. The second component to our success is excelling at our floor & degree work. I appreciate the Brothers that have been regularly coming to practice. We are also very fortunate to have such active Past Masters. It is vital to our success and growth that we improve on our work. We meet every Wednesday for practice. If you want to move through the chairs or become more involved it is important that you attend these practices. Through this you earn your Masonic wage.

Fredrick F. Wienecke

Worshipful Master

------------------------------------------------FEBRUARY 2019--------------------------------------------------------

As I’m looking forward to 2019, I found myself reflecting on why Freemasonry. What brought you to Freemasonry? The short answer for me is the fellowship/Brotherhood. After leaving the military I was lacking that fellowship in my life. It was the Brotherhood and the fellowship of Freemasonry that helped me personally in a dark time in my life. There are many Brothers who unknowingly helped me. To them I say thank you! You never know what your Brother may be struggling with. My goal for 2019 is to rekindle the fellowship that I feel we as a Lodge have lost along our way for one reason or another.  In the end it falls on each and every one of us to make THE 347 a success. We have some great events planned throughout the year. I ask that each of us reach out to a Brother we haven’t seen in Lodge in a long time and invite him to attend one of our many functions we will have throughout the year. Let this be the year the we reclaim the title  of THE Lake Erie Lodge No. 347!

Fredrick F. Wienecke

Worshipful Master

----------------------------------------------JANUARY 2019-----------------------------------------------------------

Happy New Year Brethren to you and your families. First and foremost, THANK YOU for entrusting THE Lake Erie Lodge #347 to my leadership. I look forward to serving this year. Like many Masters before me, I have a vision of growth. I truly believe the base for our growth is founded in Fellowship and Degree work. The first fellowship event for 2019 will be a Card and Game Night on Friday, January 25th starting at 7:00 p.m. All Brethren are asked to bring a side dish to share and a game. Please RSVP no later than January 10th with Brother Marlay S. Shollenberger, JW. My project for 2019 is to clean and update our kitchen. Please join us for the first Stated Meeting, on Wednesday, January 2nd at 7:30 p.m. to learn more. The officers and myself look forward to seeing you at THE Lake Erie Lodge #347.

Frederick F. Wienecke, WM

---------------------------------------DECEMBER---------------------------------

Greetings from the East Brethren,

Back in January, I challenged us all to take a more active role in our fraternity.  My original intention of this goal was to motivate all of us to make Lake Erie Lodge a better place to gather for fellowship, brotherhood, and friendship.  How did we do?  Did you attend our stated or extra meetings? Mentor a candidate? Learn a degree or charge? If you did, why did you do it?  My hope is you wanted to do it to make this organization stronger and keep your bond to our wonderful fraternity.  If you did not participate in YOUR lodge, why did you choose to not engage in your membership in Freemasonry?  Was there a family or health issue?  My hope was you reached out to a brother and found comfort in his words or encouragement to attend when you had availability.  Did your career keep you from attending Lake Erie Lodge events? I encourage you to find an activity with any Masonic body to keep your bond with your Brothers.  In the past couple of weeks your dues notices were sent.  I encourage you to ponder why you sacrifice your time, talent, and treasure to belong to Lake Erie Lodge.  Take pride in your role as a Freemason and membership in Lake Erie Lodge.  If you don’t feel you are finding value in your membership, how can that be changed?  I invite you to share your feedback with me or any brother at Lake Erie Lodge.  Please help the officers out by promptly paying your 2018 Lake Erie Lodge dues.  Paying dues on time helps the lodge to continue operations, assist brethren in need, and reduces the stress of officers who need to track down late payment and wayward brethren. 

Your next opportunity to share time with your fraternity will be our December stated meeting.  On Wednesday, December 6th,7:30pm, you are invited to the annual Lake Erie Lodge Election and Installation.  The importance of your vote and your voice is needed.  We will be electing officers for Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens, Treasurer, Secretary, three Trustees, and representation to the Grand Lodge.  Again, I encourage ALL members to participate in this important election and support the officers in the coming year.  On December 27th, Lake Erie Lodge and its officers will host a St. John’s Day Dinner.  Please join us at the lodge for fellowship at 6pm and a catered dinner at 7pm.  This event encourages you to bring your own beverages and is an adult evening out.  Members and their spouses are invited and there is no charge to attend.  It is our lodge tradition to celebrate the transition of officers and celebrate our year with loved ones.  Please plan to attend please and let one of the current wardens (Clay Brocious or Fred Wienecke) know of your intentions.

As my year in the East comes to a close, I am grateful for this amazing opportunity.  My intention during this past year was not only to keep our lodge alive, but to encourage it to thrive and grow.  I am thankful to our new members and candidates who have joined us this year including Marlay Shollenberger, Sonny Nouri, Art Monk Jr., Dale Snyder, and Brenton Davisfor their enthusiasm and willingness to jump in.  I appreciate the time and effort of our appointed officers including D. Scott Greene, Bob Graham, Dallas Church, John Hayden, Jason O’Neill, and Dean Roney.  Thank you to the members willing to serve in chairs to allow us to open and perform degree work like Brian Woodward, Rick Killian, and John Takach, Jr..  I am unable to express my appreciation adequately to all the Past Masters who have served our lodge and continue to be pillars of strength and stability to our current fraternity.  Finally, my special thanks to our two Secretaries, J. Robert Taylor and Brian Page, for their guidance and help throughout my Masonic journey.  My congratulations to Lake Erie Lodge for their success in 2017 and wish you all the best as a future Past Master of Lake Erie Lodge in 2018 and beyond.

Mike Goebel, WM

----------------------------------------NOVEMBER--------------------------------

Greeting Brethren,

The month of November is upon us and our lodge continues along with its many activities and invitations for you to be involved with our Fraternity.  November is a month in which we celebrate our Veterans and recognize their efforts and sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy.  Our stated meeting will be an opportunity to spend time in fellowship with our veterans and salute ther service.  I’m inviting you to join the officers of YOUR lodge for our stated meeting and program on November 1st at 7:30pm.  Please show your support of the officers and brothers when you attend this stated meeting and program.

October was a busy month and full of efforts of the officers that I am very grateful for.  I especially want to thank Brothers Clay Brocious & Fred Wienecke for stepping up in my absence.  Their leadership has kept our lodge going and your encouragement has been appreciated.  One of the sacrifices of the Lake Erie Lodge’s leaders is their time and attention to learning degree work.  I want to congratulate Brother Clay Brocious on performing the first degrees for our newly made brothers.  The education and memorization of our work does not just happen and its not just the work of a few.  Your lodge would benefit from more brothers learning and performing degree work.  Nearly every Wednesday you can find the lodge occupied by brothers practicing, learning, and performing degree work, charges, or lodge business.  I encourage all of us to step up and learn more about our brothers and the work of our fraternity.  If you’d like to know if the lodge is open for education, I invite you to contact me at 814-602-5955 by text or phone.  Your support and fellowship are truly appreciated by the officers of Lake Erie Lodge.

On Wednesday, November 29th our lodge will continue to perform outstanding degree work.  Our Brothers Dale Snyder & Brenton Davis will be prepared to advance in our fraternity and receive their Fellowcraft Degrees.  Please join the officers and I at 7:30pm for the next step on their Masonic journey.

As I conclude my notes for the month, I want to remind the brothers that we have all agreed to support and be there for our brothers at all times, even when we have been called from labor.  One of the few opportunities we have as a fraternity to gather in public is during a Masonic Funeral Service.  We are honored to attend and perform this duty from our departed brethren.  Please discuss your wishes of a Masonic Funeral Service with your loved ones and the duty of attending the brief yet important service of our departed brethren.  I wish you all good health and free time to support YOUR Lake Erie Lodge during the month of November.  

With a thankful heart,

Mike Goebel, WM

-------------------------------------------------------JUNE------------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

Summer is upon once again upon us and we are heading into a very busy time for vacations and family commitments.  Before we begin our summer retreat, I’d like to invite you to attend our upcoming lodge activities.  First, on June 7th we will have our June stated meeting where we will be discussing our Masonic Summer Plans.  We are sure to have an activity for you to enjoy between Dan Rice Days, Masonic Night with the Erie Seawolves, and the return of our fraternal steak fry event.  This will also be a great time to look at the success of the first part of the year and plan for our future events and degree work, including the upcoming “One Day Masonic Journey”.  Petitions are available during the stated for anyone wishing to acquire one.  On Wednesday June 14th, our lodge and its officers are going to introduce Arthur Monk to Freemasonry with his Entered Apprentice Degree as well as continue the Masonic Journey of Michael “Sonni” Nouri with his Fellowcraft Degree.  On Wednesday June 21st at 7:30pm we will be having the Fellowcraft Degree of Marlay Shollenberger.  All lodge meetings this month will begin at 7:30 pm to allow our working brethren time to attend.  I would also like to take this moment to encourage everyone to remember we regard your presence and your internal qualifications not the exterior.  Your time spent at with your Brothers is appreciated and we would never discourage you from attending if you feel unprepared or underdressed.  Let’s encourage each other to be on the same level and respect our role as members of “THE” Lake Erie Lodge, one of “THE”  finest lodges in Pennsylvania.  Our lodge room is air conditioned for your comfort, do not let this be an excuse to miss out.

Father’s Day is this month and I’d like to extend my wishes to all the Masonic Fathers in our midst.  Please continue to encourage and mentor your children and be leaders in your family.  Laying the foundation of our future is part of what makes our Fraternity strong and bonds us as brothers.  If you are not a father in the natural sense, consider yourself a father in a mentorship kind of way.  This summer, think of how you can encourage others to progress in their Masonic journey or extend the courtesy of fellowship to someone who would make a good Freemason.  There are several opportunities to engage in fellowship with Freemasons and potential future masons. One of these opportunities is our Father’s Day pancake breakfast occurring on June 18th at EREPA Grotto Park.  Our Junior Warden, Brother Fred Wienecke, will be leading this effort.  If you’d like to help serve, please contact him for details or encourage your friends and family to enjoy this opportunity and support our lodge.  The public is welcome to enjoy this event sponsored by our lodge.

Thank you to all the brothers and visitors to our May Stated Meeting and Past Masters Night Fish Fry.  The attendance was strong at both events and I was happy to see so many enjoy the fellowship.  I am still humbled to see the line of men who have paved the way before me as Masters of our Lake Erie Lodge.  Many lodges are not as fortunate to have a strong showing of Past Masters for their events and I was elated to see and thank them during our program.  Please continue to support and grow this lodge this summer.  There are many positive things happening in our lodge, do not miss out on the opportunity to be a part of them.  

Fraternally,

Mike Goebel, WM

-------------------------------------------------------MAY------------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren,

I want to start out with a special recognition of ALL of our Past Masters.  I am grateful for your service and dedication to this Fraternity and especially OUR Lake Erie Lodge #347. During my time as a member of this lodge we’ve had a great line of Masters and Officers that I am privileged to call my brothers.  During our stated meeting, Wednesday, May 3rd, we will honor our living Masters with a sign of thanks and gratitude as well as pay our respects to the Past Masters who have been called from Labor.  This meeting will also be our official visit from District Deputy Grand Master Peter M. Kraus.  Accompanying him will be officers and members of Tyrian-Commonwealth Lodge.  Prior to the start of our Stated will be our Annual Lake Erie Perch Fish Fry.  We will serve hand-caught Lake Erie Perch and sides along with fellowship from 5-7pm.  Tickets can be reserved or purchased for $15 prior to May 3rd.  Tickets on the day of will be $20.  I will accept RSVP for tickets via call or text (814-602-5955) or email (goebel119@gmail.com).  Special thanks to Brothers Neil & Larry Culbertson, Fred Wienecke, and Clay Brocious for assisting in the advance ticket sales for the Fish Fry.  All Master Masons are welcome and encouraged to stay for the stated meeting at 7:30pm.

On Wednesday, May 10th our lodge will have an extra meeting to raise Brother Dana LaFata to the degree of Master Mason.  We will also have a Fellowcraft degree for Brother Michael Sonny Nouri.  The extra meeting will begin at 7:30 PM to allow brothers to attend who may have an extended work day. 

Finally on Wednesday, May 17th we will be introducing Marlay Sherman Shollenberger to the fraternity with an Entered Apprentice Degree.  Lodge will be opened at 7:30pm on that evening as well.  Please encourage each other to attend these degrees, they are your brothers and we should not let our brothers down as they are taught and advanced in the profession of Freemasonry.

As my year progresses, please consider being more active with your membership.  There are many ways you can deepen your bond with our fraternity.  One way we can all help our lodge is to speak fondly of the fraternity and enlighten others to the value of membership in our great fraternity.  Petitions for membership may be obtained from the lodge on Wednesdays.  There is usually some activity going on from 7-9pm on Wednesdays and we would welcome your visit to enjoy fellowship or obtain petitions.  On Wednesdays when there is not a stated or extra meeting, the officers and leaders of Lake Erie Lodge gather for fellowship and masonic education.  You as a member are encouraged to learn more about YOUR lodge and our great fraternity.  My invitation is that you learn something new about Freemasonry (Charges, Degree Work, or Officer Places) and invite someone to take a fresh look at Freemasonry (Current and Potential Brothers).  I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at THE Lake Erie Lodge this May.  

Fraternally,

Mike Goebel  

Worshipful Master of Lake Erie Lodge #347

------------------------------------------------------APRIL------------------------------------------------------

Greeting from the East Brethren,

Spring is upon us and it is a time of rebirth and renewal.  Please join me in being an active participant in YOUR lodge.  Believe it or not MOST of our members have not attended a single stated meeting in over a year.  Why is that?  We have one the most active lodges in the district and yet we didn’t have a single participant in the Regional School of Instruction event, a point that I am embarrassed to admit.  Our degree conferrals barely have enough participation to complete the degree work.  I was raised in a masonic family and the priorities always included family, when was the last time you dedicated time to your masonic family? Granted your own family and health should be priority number one!  If it’s been a while, what’s stopping you from returning to lodge?  This month has several opportunities to come back and be part of THE Lake Erie Lodge. I would like to thank Brothers Clay Brocious, Fred Wienecke, Robert Graham, and D. Scott Green for their assistance in procuring a new fixture for our Lodge Room.  Attend the stated to see the district property we have procured.

Our stated meeting will occur on Wednesday, April 5th at 7:30.  If you need a ride or assistance in attending the meeting contact me and we will make appropriate arrangements.  The program for the evening is the Third Degree for Brother Adam Swartwood.   We are hopeful that we will have a large number of brothers in attendance to welcome him to YOUR lodge. 

On Monday, April 10th Lake Erie Lodge will be hosting the entire 24th Masonic District during a school of instruction event.  It would mean a lot to myself and Brother Mike Stafford if we could have a full lodge room to demonstrate the second degree to our visiting brothers to our lodge.

Finally on Wednesday, April 12th at 7:00 we will have a Double Degree event.  Brother Dana LaFata will be given his Fellowcraft Degree.  Following that we will introduce Michael Sonny Nouri to Freemasonry and initiate him into our lodge with the Entered Apprentice Degree.  Please let these brothers know you are on their Masonic Journey with them and attend the degree work.

Throughout the month of April, Brothers Clay Brocious, Fred Wienecke, and Mike Goebel will have Fish Fry Tickets for our Past Master’s Night on May 3rd.  RSVP and pre-paid tickets are $15, at the door the tickets are $20.  Contact Mike Goebel (814-602-5955 or goebel119@gmail.com) to secure a pre-paid price on your ticket.  This is our signature stated meeting and will be well-attended.  We will be featuring Lake Erie caught perch and fries.  The first member to bring this notice to our April Stated meeting and show it to the WM, SW, or JW will be given a complimentary ticket.  I hope to see you at the stated.

Fraternally,

Mike Goebel, Worshipful Master of Lake Erie Lodge #347.

-----------------------------------------------------MARCH----------------------------------------------------

Greeting Brother’s,

February has been a bit of a blur but we are moving right along into March.  The theme I am looking for in March is “Lost Treasures”.  The idea of lost treasures has a variety of meanings which I’d like us all to explore this month.

Our Stated Meeting is on Wednesday, March 1st at 7:30pm.  If you feel you are a “treasured” member of our lodge (which if you are reading/receiving this, you are), we welcome you to join us.  Past Masters and members who have not attended lodge this year are valued and highly welcomed to attend.  Please bring a brother with you, the more the merrier.  The program for the evening will be a masonic trivia game and will be both educational and entertaining.  We will also enjoy refreshments from our Junior Warden, Fred Wienecke. 

Lodge Dues: The officers and I would like to remind you that our 2017-18 dues should be paid current.  Please contact our Brother J. Robert Taylor (taylorfarms8270@hotmail.com) or Mike Goebel (814-602-5955 or goebel119@gmail.com)   if you feel you may be in question.  Officers are beginning to call outstanding dues members to reduce our number of suspensions.  Please help us reduce this by ensuring you and your close brothers have paid their most recent dues. 

Traveling Masonic Tools, The 24th Masonic District has a traveling trowel and a traveling gavel.  The officers have been challenged to obtain one or both of these objects.  They once found a home in our lodge room.  I would love to see these lost treasures returned to its rightful home at Lake Erie Lodge.  Plans for their return will be discussed at our stated meeting.

On Wednesday, March 8th, 7:30 PM during an Extra Meeting of Lake Erie Lodge Dana Lafatta will be initiated into Freemasonry and made a brother of our esteemed lodge.  Please plan to attend this exciting moment in Dana’s masonic journey.

Regional School of Instruction, Saturday, March 11 – 8 AM.  ALL elective and appointed officers, and any Master Mason wishing to learn, should plan to attend the Regional School on Saturday, March 11 in New Castle, PA.  

Spelling Bee for Kids, Tuesday April 4, from 5 – 9 PM.  The 24th District will again be fielding a team of spellers for the Hooked on Books for Kids Corporate Spelling Bee, to be held at Junior’s Last Laugh in Erie.  Brethren and their significant others are encouraged to attend the event in support of our team!  Event tickets are $10 each at the door. 

Petitions: Think you know someone who would make a great brother?  I encourage you to visit the lodge and obtain a petition.  We have had a good rate of growing our fraternity and I’m encouraged by this growth.  Brothers John Hayden, Dallas Church, Jason O’Neill, and others have all produced petitions for this lodge recently and I would welcome your candidates to consider our fraternity and especially our great lodge.  If you cannot submit any petitions at this time, support our new candidates by attending their degree work.  I’m looking forward to a successful Spring at Lake Erie Lodge, please join me in a season of growth at Lake Erie Lodge #347.

Fraternally,

Mike Goebel, WM

----------------------------------------------------FEBRUARY----------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brethren!

The store greeting cards and chocolate stores tells us that Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching.  Welcome to the month in which love is all around.  February is for cupid, flowers, chocolate and brotherhood.   Several years back one of our past masters introduced the concept of “Love your Lodge”.  This month I encourage each of us to share  our brotherhood for our fraternity and “Love Lake Erie Lodge”.  During our stated meeting on February 1st will be an excellent opportunity to show our love of our home lodge as well as the Masonic affiliations of our appendent bodies.  We will share our lodge building with the stated meeting of Erie County DeMolay and learn of the progress of our Masonic Youth.  In January, the challenge was issued to make time for Lake Erie Lodge.  Last month, we kicked off the year with a strongly attended stated meeting and even hosted District Deputy Peter Kraus.  Not only am I encouraging you to attend our stated meeting on February 1, but I’m encouraging you to bring someone with you.  Offer someone a ride, encourage your first line signer or someone you have mentored fraternally.  Warm our lodge room by sitting with your lodge brothers who are also involved in Grotto, Shrine, York and Scottish Rite Bodies.  I know that I was more likely to go to meetings when someone shared the accountability and invitation of going (Thank you Brother Brian Page, PM).  I look forward to seeing those brothers with appending  affiliations feel the fellowship and honor to be part of Lake Erie Lodge.  The challenge is issued to be more present than the other bodies, including the young men of DeMolay. 

On February 25th, our lodge will be raising two brothers to the sublime degree of Master Master.  Not only will there be amazing degree work conferred, there will also be a traditional Lake Erie Lodge Breakfast.  Breakfast will be served from 8-8:30am and degree work will begin at 9:00am.  You won’t want to miss this important part of the Masonic journey for Brothers Christopher Wolf and Brother Adam Swartwood.  Remember the importance of your journey and honor them with your support on Saturday, Febuary 25th.

Our lodge continues to be looked upon as a leader in the 24th District.  The only way we can continue to lead is by our dedication and perserverience to participate in Masonic activity.  I challenge all of us to participate in Lake Erie Lodge in some way.  The Sectional School is looking for many to fill roles on the team and is an excellent opportunity to learn more about others in our Masonic Fraternity.  Interested parties are asked to contact Brother Mike Stafford 814-725-3017 or mstafford11@verizon.net.  A practice schedule and team is currently put in place.  If your commitments are towards Lake Erie Lodge, attend our stated or degree work meetings, mentor a candidate or newly raised brother, or volunteer your time, talent, or treasure to make our fraternity and lodge worthy of its reputation and ideas of right.  If you are unable to be present in or at our lodge actiivites, please reach out to myself or any lodge officer.  I do not want to exclude or forget any lodge member and my hope is you do not want to be lost or forgotten by the brothers.  I would value and welcome the participation of brothers on committees of inquiry, coordinate lodge fundraising activities, and connect with our inactive or out of town brothers.  I’m encouraging members and prospective members to utilize our lodge’s voicemail to remain connected (1888-680-2854 x 102).  The officers, past masters, and new members continue to have informal Masonic education and degree practices on Wednesday nights from 7:30-9pm.  Consider this notice to be an open invitation to make the most of your membership in Lake Erie Lodge.  I pray that 2017 will continue to bless you and your family with positive health and God given blessings.

Fraternally,

Mike Goebel, Worshipful Master

----------------------------------------------------JANUARY-----------------------------------------------------

Greetings Brothers!  January 2017 has arrived and we are all in the midst of focusing on our New Year’s Resolutions.  While some resolutions are meant to be broken, I would challenge you to keep one in mind for your lodge.  I challenge every member of our lodge to make a monthly commitment to this fraternity.  There are many ways we can formally and informally be active as members of our honorable fraternity.  Your attendance at our meetings and degree work is greatly appreciated, but it is not the only way you can be an active participant in our lodge and its activities.  We need our members to be engaged and act as beacons of light in and out of our assemblies.  Many of us have valid excuses on why we cannot be actively involved in our lodge.  If you are one of the many brothers absent from our meetings make an excuse to attend a stated meeting or some remarkable degree work.  If you cannot attend in person, offer to help plan or coordinate a lodge activity, serve on a committee of inquiry, or visit one of the other lodges in our district and represent your home lodge.  I want to thank in advance those who have been elected or asked to serve as officers for the upcoming year.  When you have the chance, please thank them for their time and commitment to Freemasonry in general and our lodge in particular.

This month we will have several opportunities to participate in lodge activities.  We will begin with our stated meeting on Wednesday, January 4th.  Our program will be titled “Meet Your Brothers”.  In the event you are traveling or visiting another lodge in our state, are you aware of the protocol and expectations of identifying yourself to other lodges?  We will also review the process and purpose of saying farewell to our brothers who have been called to the serve the Grand Architect’s Universal Lodge.  We will also discuss ways you can prepare your family for a Masonic Funeral Service.  We will also have degree work to complete on January 18th, remember to support our officers and new members in their journey.  Brother Adam Swartwood &  Brother Christopher Wolf will be continuing their masonic journies by being passed to the Fellowcraft Degree.

Finally, I’d like to invite you to make this your year at your lodge.  Love your family, grow spiritually, and challenge yourself to be a better man.  We are stronger together and success generally is rewarded when we tackle obstacles together.  Let us face the year 2017 as a community and face our challenges together as brothers.  Our lodge has been given a resource phone line to communicate with prospective members and each other.  I’m encouraging and empowering you  to use this tool.  This should be YOUR lodge and therefore you need to have a voice.  Call 1-888-680-2854 x102 and keep us abreast of your news and our Masonic brethren.  Brothers can share prayer requests or express concern for a fellow brother by contacting this voicemail system.  You can submit family news, health and bereavement notifications, or suggestions on how we can make and keep Lake Erie Lodge THE premiere fraternal organization in Northwestern Pennsylvania.  I am thankful to have this year as an opportunity to serve Lake Erie Lodge as YOUR Worshipful Master.  May God Bless each of you in the year 2017,

Mike Goebel