INTROSPECTIVE
Past Master Darrin E. Wright was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in August 2006 in Friendship Lodge #20 under the leadership of Past Master Edward Smith. He acknowledges Past Master Smith as his inspiration for embracing Masonry with dedication, reverence for ritual, and commitment to upholding its sacred traditions. From the moment he was raised, he actively served the lodge, beginning as Junior Deacon and later as Senior Deacon. His leadership qualities and dedication were soon recognized, leading to his election as Junior Warden, followed by Senior Warden in subsequent years.
In 2010, he was nominated and elected to serve as Worshipful Master. During his tenure, he accomplished several visionary goals that strengthened the lodge and its operations. Under his leadership, he revised the Lodge’s By-Laws, creating clear protocols for handling lodge business outside of Masonic governance. He also championed the installation of signage and beautification of the lodge premises, ensuring a welcoming and dignified space for members and visitors alike. Recognizing the importance of financial sustainability, he spearheaded various fundraising initiatives and implemented automated payment systems, enhancing the lodge’s financial stability.
Understanding the value of communication and historical preservation, Past Master Wright established The Friendship Times, the lodge’s first official newsletter. This publication highlighted the lodge’s activities, celebrated the achievements of its members, and provided updates on auxiliary organizations such as the Knights of Pythagoras (KOP). His dedication to honoring the lodge’s history was further demonstrated when he led the commemoration of its 131st anniversary. This milestone event paid tribute to all Past Masters and engaged key community stakeholders. His leadership and commitment to Masonic excellence were publicly recognized when Covington’s then-Mayor, Kim Porter, issued an official proclamation declaring June 25, 2011, as Friendship Lodge Day. The event was also featured in The Covington News, further cementing the lodge’s presence within the community.
Past Master Wright’s commitment extended beyond governance and ceremony; he sought to enrich the experience of every new Master Mason. To this end, he established the tradition of presenting each newly raised Master Mason with a Masonic gift set, a gesture symbolizing brotherhood, continuity, and the importance of tradition and Masonic education.
Beyond his contributions to the lodge, Past Master Wright pursued academic and professional excellence, earning his Ph.D. in Social Work. His career has been dedicated to education, leadership, and service—values deeply aligned with Masonic principles. He remains committed to fostering mentorship, personal growth, and community engagement within and beyond the fraternity.
Past Master Wright hopes to be remembered as a servant leader who upheld the timeless values of Masonry, strengthened the foundations of Friendship Lodge #20, and left a lasting legacy of leadership, innovation, and dedication to the craft.
Darrin E. Wright, Ph.D., MAC, LMSW.
JAN 2010-JAN 2012
“If your mind carries a heavy burden of the past, you will experience more of the same. The past perpetuates itself through a lack of presence. The quality of your consciousness at this moment is what shapes the future.” Eckhart Tolle
LAUDABLE RESTROSPECTIVE