A Templar Week

It has been a very busy week for me. I flew home on June 8th from a 2-week-long work trip. I had very little rest as I drove to south-central Idaho on Sunday to attend the Informal Opening of the Grand Chapter of Idaho, Order of the Eastern Star, and represented the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho. It had been too long since I had attended a Grand Chapter, and catching up with old friends was great.

I stayed the night and the next day traveled to eastern Idaho so I could conduct my Official Visit as Grand Commander to Idaho Falls Commandery No. 6. I was well received and I'd like to thank the Sir Knights for their generosity and hospitality.

Thursday, I attended Idaho Commandery No. 1 for my Official Visit where I installed my Deputy Grand Commander who couldn't be at the installation in April due to personal issues.

The next night was my largest last stated meeting before going dark for the summer. We had a lot of business to conduct and June marks 18 years in Freemasonry for me so the Brethren recognized me for that. Afterward, we closed the meeting, adjourned to the bar, and shared some refreshments.

Yesterday, I presided over the conferring of the Order of Malta and the Order of the Temple. I was supported by members and officers of three different Commanderies as well as Grand Commandery officers, Past Grand Commanders of Oregon and Idaho, the Grand Commander of Oregon, and the Northwest Department Commander. The Order of the Temple is one of the most beautiful rituals in all of Freemasonry. Yesterday was also the 113th anniversary of Salmon Commandery No. 9 and Twin Falls Commandery No. 10.

Today, I am rested and refreshed so I can now concentrate on studying for a certification that I need for work. Today also marks 18 years since I was Passed to the degree of Fellow Craft Mason.