FROM THE EAST
Lest we forget.“Masonic meetings are gatherings where Masons convene to discuss a wide range of topics related to human improvement, philanthropy, philosophy, art and science, and virtue. Contrary to the sensationalized and founded rumors about satanic rituals or other nefarious activities. Masonic meetings focus on the principles of virtue, brotherhood, and the pursuit of knowledge. Freemasons typically meet once a month and the frequency may vary based on individual responsibilities within the order. The discussions discussed during these meetings are aimed at fostering personal growth and contributing to the betterment of humanity. The secrecy surrounding Masonic meetings is not about engaging in mysterious or sinister activities but has historical roots. Freemasonry has faced persecution throughout it’s history prompting the need for discretion and privacy. While the objectives of masonic meetings differ from that of churches, the order does not seek mass membership but rather individuals committed to self improvement and contributing positively to society.”(Excerpted from Masonic Temples video sent by Brother Rafael in our messenger). Thank you for sharing.
Last Saturday saw two fine gentlemen enter the doors of Masonry and like many others, were left in awe with the solemn ritual conducted. Awe in the sense that at times one expects a mere induction ceremony of sorts or one filled with nefariousness. In addition to the article above, in this ancient ceremony, candidates learn Masonic symbols and their interpretations applicable for the candidate at that time of their Masonic journey. Many at that point in time though, may not be able to comprehend the things going on around them. Masonry constitutes solemnity and CVML#427 strives to conduct our degrees with utmost seriousness. Appreciation to the diligent work of our Past Masters for their never ceasing mentoring most especially to Worshipful John Ehrlich Kiley who at the end of every ritual reminds candidates what Masons do during meetings, painstakingly takes time to explain and further educate the candidates on the contents of the ritual, to practice out of the Lodge those great moral duties which are inculcated in it, and also for reminding the candidates that these rituals or conferrals are works that are not learned overnight, instead requires months of hard work and then weeks of practice and more work in between. Having that said, I would like to thank the officers, coaches and members who continuously take their work seriously, dedicate their time, making our conferrals a memorable experience for our candidates. Hats off to Brother Voltaire Taguiba for delivering the lecture, Brother Robert Ofo-ob for sitting as Master for the opening, Brother Horace Daway for taking the Senior Deacon role and for Brother Perry Yodong for delivering the charge.
Lastly, I would like to convey to the Brethren the immense gratitude of the family of our late Brother Lauro Adriano, for the great undertaking of accomplishing his unfinished house projects as well as our support in their most difficult times.
Fraternally,
Anthony Wesley Baguiwet, WM
FROM THE WEST
Brethren,
Greetings, we are at the start of the second quarter of the year and it is time to roll up our sleeves and begin what masons do best, charity.
“The most common concept of charity is giving time, money or property to those in need. However the deeper and more significant meaning of charity is to have a benevolent goodwill to humanity, and to bear kindness and tolerance in the judgment of others. Thus charity does not mean or focus on donating money or services, but having a pure and charitable heart. By this is meant, we should wish for and be willing to encourage the best in our brethren. We should always be sincere in exercising the tenets for fundamental principles of our order. Brotherly love, relief and truth.” Bro. Stephen Surratos.
Since last year, Chino Valley Masonic Lodge #427 has supported our Masonic Youth, both Jobs Daughters and DeMolays and had representatives visit our lodge as we presented to them each a check to support their cause. This year, on May 20th at 12:00 noon The Jobs Daughter Bethel #301 will be holding an Eat-All-You-Can Ice Cream fundraiser for $5.00 each with donations accepted as well. The location will be at 272 W. 8th St. Claremont CA. 91711. Therefore, It was pronounced by WM Wesley Baguiwet that CVML #427 take the opportunity and visit their fundraiser and personally hand over CVML #427 ‘s donation for this year on this day. It is encouraged that our brethren attend and support their event.
Another upcoming charity event is our annual Blood Donation event in collaboration with the American Red Cross on May 25 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. at CVML #427, Chino Valley. Brethren are again encouraged to donate and invite family and friends on that day. Come visit the lodge as a walk-in and register online at
Very Respectfully,
Bro. Paul Henry L. Kiley CVML#427, SW.
FROM THE SOUTH
The just concluded first Battle of the Lodges golf tournament hosted by Rosemead Lodge #457 last March 16, 2024 at the Griffith Park Harding Golf course was well-attended with participation from several lodges. Events like this provide wonderful opportunities for brethren to come together, build and nurture relationships, and celebrate the spirit of Masonry.
It shows that Masons do not only come together for lodge rituals and meetings but also enjoy each other’s company in sports and community activities. Building bonds outside of formal settings strengthens the fraternal ties and promotes a sense of camaraderie among brethren across different lodges.
Congratulations to the Chino Valley Lodge #427 (CVML#427)for emerging as Champions to this first Battle of the Lodges Golf 
Tournament. I take pride in being a part of this winning team! Contributing to our victory embodies the values of teamwork and sportsmanship and a testament to the strong bonds we have within our lodge. Sportsmanship is a cornerstone of brotherhood and it is heartening to see that it was evident in the last golf tournament. Kudos to the other participating lodges who also demonstrated respect, fairness, and camaraderie on the golf course. Our special thanks to Rosemead Lodge for hosting such a memorable and enjoyable event. We at CVML#427 look forward to defending our title next year.
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The funeral service for our late Bro. EA Lauro Cruz Adriano conducted by CVML#427 last April 6, 2024 in the lodge was a deeply emotional and meaningful tribute to a cherished member of our lodge. It is evident 
that he was not only a brother but also a very close friend to many. May his memory continue to inspire and his spirit live in the hearts of those who knew him.
Conducting a Masonic funeral service for the first time at CVML#427 is a significant milestone for the lodge. Worshipful Master Anthony Wesley Baguiwet and the secretary Worshipful Brother Eric Calixto were licensed by the Grand Lodge of California to lead such an important activity. It was a testament to their dedication and commitment to upholding the traditions and values of Freemasonry. It was a momentous event that marked the capability of CVML#427 to perform such rituals.
Brother Lauro’s family, Myra and the kids were truly grateful to CVML#427 for the final tribute we gave to our brother.
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Let us welcome Brother Erwin Ras and Brother Xyborg Laita to our Fraternity. It was another joyous occasion for CVML#427 to witness you both transition as Entered Apprentice Masons. 
I hope it will inspire you to pursue your Masonic journey with greater enthusiasm and dedication. The contributions you will bring to the lodge will undoubtedly enrich us. We look forward to your continued growth and involvement.
I would like to thank all the brethren who contributed to the food preparation. The successful conduct of rituals and other CVML#427 activities demonstrate the spirit of unity and collaboration within our lodge. It is through the collective efforts of dedicated brothers like you that we are able to fulfill our objectives and provide meaningful experience for our members.
The initiation of our new brothers, along with the participation of officers assuming new roles or positions in the ritual, showcases the dedication and commitment of CVML#427 to excellence in Masonic practice. Such involvement not only enriches the experience for the new initiates but also strengthens the bonds within the lodge. It’s evident that the CVML#427 is striving to be among the best lodges in the district and all your dedication is commendable.
Your Junior Warden;
Voltaire Laurence C. Taguiba
JW-CVML#427-2024
THE PETITIONER AND THE SPONSOR
Continued
A Petitioner before his application will be accepted must be Endorsed by at least 2 Master Masons in Good Standing known as the sponsors who have knowledge over the character of the Petitioner. The Sponsor shall also become the mentor/coach of the petitioner in his advancement to the Degrees of Masonry. They would be the first persons that the Petitioner will approach in case he has questions, queries or doubts and more importantly they will oversee the Petitioner as he progressed, inculcating the virtues and teachings of Masonry in his journey as well as his duties and responsibilities, rights and privileges as a Petitioner. This shows the importance of the Petitioner actively participating in the activities of the Lodge, e.g. Stated Meetings, Charity Events, and others and also serve the Brethren of whatever assistance he may be able to render. This will help the Brethren especially the Sponsors observe his demeanor and be able to advise him of any errors or transgressions he may commit. This will also build a stronger bond of Brotherly relationship between and among the Petitioners and the Brethren of the Lodge.
A Sponsor is one who usually knows the Petitioner for a period of time, thus he can vouch for the character of the Petitioner, however in such diverse environment like our Jurisdiction, the Sponsor may have no inkling on the character of a Petitioner but may come to observe the Petitioner in Lodge activities and events, his demeanor as he interacts with others, fellow petitioners and the Brethren; thus it would take some time for a Petitioner to have a Sponsor in his application. The Sponsors are not just signers of the application form of the Petitioner. They play a great role in the Masonic Journey of the Petitioner. They are the first Mentors/Coach, providing him proper guidance, advice, and practical direction as he takes the best path in life towards becoming a better man.
HIGHLIGHT OF OUR STATED MEETING
In our April 2024 Stated Meeting, it was presented by the Temple Board that they approved another budget of more or less $4,700.00 for the completion of the Suppression Unit in the kitchen. It was also presented that the Cell Site Tower Project is still in the negotiation stage and the sub-committee are preparing for the counter-offer of the Association.
The Charity events, fund-raising programs and civic activities were presented, the support to the Jobs Daughters fund-raising activity on April 20, 2024 at Claremont Lodge, our Taco-fest fund-raising in celebration of the Cinco-de-Mayo festival, the Blood Drive in May and November of this year, our Golf Tournament in July. Other activities will be presented and posted in our website. The amount of $250 was approved as donations to the Jobs Daughters.
Reminding again the Brethren who have not yet paid their Annual Dues for 2024. You can pay directly to the Secretary or thru the Grand Lodge in imember2.0.
Bro Eric Calixto PM
