John P. Wells to receive Masonic apron

LIBERTY – Freemasons in Sullivan County will gather to honor John P. Wells of Milford with the presentation of a ceremonial apron in a meeting to be held at the Liberty Masonic Temple, 20 Eagle Drive, Liberty, on Saturday, September 9. A pot roast dinner with all the fixings will begin at 6:30 PM, with the meeting to follow at 8:00 PM.

Mr. Wells will be given a Masonic apron that is emblematic of his appointment to the position of Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York of Free & Accepted Masons. Liberty Lodge #521 and Monticello Lodge #532 will jointly conduct the program. In addition to his new assignment with Grand Lodge, Mr. Wells also serves as Secretary of the two local lodges.

As Grand Steward, Mr. Wells is a member of the governing body of Masonry in New York State. Membership in a Masonic lodge is open to men 21 years or older, without regard to race, color or religion. Those accepted for membership must be of good character and reputation, and believe in a Supreme Being and the immortality of the soul.

A candidate for membership is first recommended by a member of the lodge he wants to join. His “petition” is read at a meeting and referred to a committee that interviews the applicant, normally at his home. After committee reports back to the lodge, the applicant is voted on by a secret ballot of the lodge’s members and, if accepted, begins the process of becoming a lodge member.

Blank petitions for membership will be available at the September 9 apron presentation program.

Jens Meyer of Bethel and Archie Dean of Neversink will be the masters of ceremonies. Charles Paty of Mongaup Valley will play the organ, and Louis Levine of Kiamesha Lake will act as chaplain. Mae Nidds and other members of the Order of the Eastern Star will oversee preparation and service of the dinner.

The event and dinner are free and open to the public. If interested in attending, RSVP to (570) 686-9388.