Embedded Files
INTROSPECTIVE
When I demitted to Friendship Lodge #20 in 2018, I did not know whether I had something worth contributing. A Past Master of Silver Leaf Lodge #457 I’d arrived at a time in my journey when I thought my absence would be more of a present than my presence. Though I didn’t want to admit it to myself at the time, nor did anyone wish to say so, I could see my impact on the Craft was stifling. I’d become that Past Master that always talks about how things were done when he sat in the East, and I couldn’t seem to turn it off. I’d decided that my time in Freemasonry had come to an end and when I mentioned it to my good friend Jeff Richardson, he encouraged me to stay. He invited me out to his lodge, and I was hopeful that there was something I could contribute, I just didn’t know what, but I decided to be the biggest servant I could. This led to being elected JW in 2019, being selected to chair the By-Laws Committee and revising the By-Laws to ultimately being elected to serve in the highest office of Worshipful Master from January 2020 to January of 2025.
As the world fell into the pandemonium of a world-wide pandemic in March of 2020, I observed Brothers working harmoniously to reposition the Craft to be a meaningful member of this community. While the world experienced toilet paper shortages, I observed Brothers giving their time and money to revitalize the Lodge, Conducting Street cleanups resulting from Adopting the Street, volunteering at local churches and high schools as well as awarding scholarships. We even managed to increase our membership as the pandemic did little to stem the desire of good men wanting to become better. Friendship was key during the pandemic as it is key NOW.
It’s something to be said about being a part of this wonderful Brotherhood of ours and that thing is this:
“Friendship, not obligations, is what makes the Brotherhood work”, and I am honored to still have the honor to be counted a member of our Sacred Society.
ANTONIO ALSTON-BEY, PM
JAN 2020-JAN 2025
LAUDABLE RESTROSPECTIVE
"PM Alston-Bey, your tenure as Worshipful Master has been a period of remarkable growth and progress for our lodge. Your leadership has been characterized by vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our fraternal principles. I extend my deepest gratitude for the opportunities you’ve afforded me, from my appointment as Senior Deacon to chairing the Finance, IT, Fundraising, and By-Laws Committees. Your nominations, which led to my elections as Treasurer and Junior Warden, have been pivotal in my Masonic journey. Even your support as I dealt with overwhelming lost during your time in office cannot be overlooked.
"PM Alston-Bey, your tenure as Worshipful Master has been a period of remarkable growth and progress for our lodge. Your leadership has been characterized by vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our fraternal principles. I extend my deepest gratitude for the opportunities you’ve afforded me, from my appointment as Senior Deacon to chairing the Finance, IT, Fundraising, and By-Laws Committees. Your nominations, which led to my elections as Treasurer and Junior Warden, have been pivotal in my Masonic journey. Even your support as I dealt with overwhelming lost during your time in office cannot be overlooked.
Your steadfast belief in my ability to execute tasks effectively has been a constant source of motivation. Your dedication to the lodge’s physical restoration, your guidance in establishing our non-profit works, and your tireless efforts to expand our membership have been truly inspiring. Your emphasis on continued Masonic education has enriched our understanding of our craft, and your consistent example of striving to make good men better has left an indelible mark on us all. Thank you for your exemplary service and for fostering an environment of growth, learning, and brotherhood."
Your steadfast belief in my ability to execute tasks effectively has been a constant source of motivation. Your dedication to the lodge’s physical restoration, your guidance in establishing our non-profit works, and your tireless efforts to expand our membership have been truly inspiring. Your emphasis on continued Masonic education has enriched our understanding of our craft, and your consistent example of striving to make good men better has left an indelible mark on us all. Thank you for your exemplary service and for fostering an environment of growth, learning, and brotherhood."
Thanks so much,
Thanks so much,
Ed Coakley - Friendship 20, Master Mason
Ed Coakley - Friendship 20, Master Mason
A Past Master’s gavel may one day fall silent, but the impact of his leadership echoes for generations. Such is the case with our distinguished Past Master Alston-Bey — a man whose steady hand, wise counsel, and unwavering devotion shaped not only the direction of this lodge, but the character of the brethren within it.
His leadership was never about position — it was about purpose.
During his time as Worshipful Master, he carried a vision that extended beyond meetings and minutes. He saw a lodge that was educated and community-minded. He envisioned younger brothers stepping confidently into leadership, ritual work executed with excellence, and a lodge respected both within the district and throughout the community. And he did not simply speak that vision — he worked tirelessly to bring it to life.
But perhaps his greatest contribution was not found in programs or plans, but in people.
He mentored quietly and consistently. He took time after meetings to explain the “why” behind our work. He corrected with patience. He encouraged without hesitation. Many of us can recall a word of advice, a firm handshake, or a phone call when we needed guidance. He understood that masonry is not built in a day — it is cultivated through steady instruction and sincere brotherhood.
He recognized potential in brothers before they recognized it in themselves.
Under his leadership, we did not just grow in numbers — we grew in knowledge, discipline, and unity. He reminded us that wearing the apron is an honor, but living the principles is the true work. His example demonstrated that dignity requires no audience, service requires no applause, and integrity requires no compromise.
Beyond the East, he has always been simply a great man.
He represents the very best of what we strive to be — not perfect, but purposeful; not loud, but impactful; not self-serving, but selfless.
A Past Master’s term may have an ending date — but his influence does not.
Thank you for everything,
Chris Taylor - Friendship 20, Master Mason
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