One Day event raises 24 new Master Masons on the first day of spring.

Rapid City, South Dakota March 20, 2010. On this beautiful first day of spring 2010, a Large group of Master Masons came together to bring into the fraternity 24 new Brethren raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The event was hosted by the two lodges of Rapid City, Rapid City 25 and Mt. Rushmore 220. Parts in all three degrees were shared by Brother Master Masons from all around the region.

Rapid City Masonic Center, Rapid City, South Dakota

Grand Master of South Dakota Masons, The Most Worshipful Jack Welker was in attendance as well as many of his Grand Lodge officers. Much emphasis was placed on the fact that the event was built around those being raised on this day.

Grand Master Of Masons, South Dakota AF&AM, Most Worshipful Jack Welker

The day started early for many of those in attendance, around 6:30 AM, preparing morning snacks and coffee. As the time progressed and the hall filled with more and more of the Masonic Brethren, it became clear that this would be a very large event for us here in South Dakota.

Members of the Minnelusa Chapter of DeMolay prepared and served a wonderful lunch to well over 75 brethren. These boys took off from their normal weekend routine to come and serve us as we hungered in the early afternoon. I personally was able to spend several hours with a small group of these fine young men and must say they are going to help bring, in the future, much life to a well deserving brotherhood.

Members of the Minnelusa Chapter of DeMolay

The day came to a close around 4:30 PM with the Grand Master giving thanks to all who helped to make this day the success that it was, and then the new brothers and Grand Lodge representatives lined up for the usual photo op.

24 New Master Masons and Members of the Grand Lodge of South Dakota 24 New initiates moments before the 3rd Degree

“We are blessed to have witnessed this wonderful raising of new brothers,” I heard one of those in attendance say as we exited the building after a day set aside for those who were being brought into the ranks of Freemasonry.