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Welcome to Central Lodge No. 44 F&AM's New Website - Feb 27 6pm to 8pm Turtle Degree and Spaghetti Dinner (Click Activities for more info)
23 Plum Street Old Town Hall, 2nd Floor [Mail to: PO Box 2689] Vincentown, NJ 08088 |
                 
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Brethren, As March arrives in New Jersey, the Garden State awakens to spring—trees budding, flowers blooming, and the earth renewing itself after winter’s grip. March also brings the festive time of St. Patrick’s Day 🍀, a widely celebrated cultural festival marked by wearing green, parades, and joyful celebrations of Irish heritage. Did you know there is an intriguing connection between the Revolutionary War in NJ, St. Patrick’s Day, Brother George Washington, and Freemasonry right here in the Garden State? Read on: In March 1780, amid the Continental Army’s grueling winter encampment at Morristown—the harshest of the war—General Washington issued general orders on March 16, 1780, honoring St. Patrick’s Day. Washington proclaimed March 17 a day of rest, directing that all fatigue and working parties cease, and granting extra rations to Irish troops and their friends. This recognized the heritage and valor of many soldiers while fostering unity and solidarity with the “brave and generous” people of Ireland. This thoughtful act exemplified Masonic principles of brotherly love, charity, and harmony in the face of extreme hardship. As our preeminent Masonic Brother and Commander-in-Chief, Washington’s gesture lifted morale during profound suffering, demonstrating leadership rooted in fraternity and compassion—qualities central to our Craft. March, through this historic order from Brother Washington, beautifully ties together the spirit of renewal in spring, the celebration of Irish freedom, and Freemasonry’s timeless values. It shows how Masonic ideals of unity and kindness sustained the Revolution, even in New Jersey’s frozen camps, inspiring us today to extend the same brotherly care in our lodges and communities. Brethren, let us then embrace spring’s promise of Masonic renewal, honor our revolutionary heritage, renew our obligations, and build onward in brotherly love, relief, and truth. Happy spring—and a very Happy St. Patrick’s Day—may it bring growth, light, and enduring unity to us all! Sincerely and fraternally, Robert J. Sposato, Sr. Worshipful Master wm@centrallodge44.com |
