A night of fellowship, food, and fun.

On Thursday, May 22nd, 2025, the brethren of King Lodge No. 461 in Bristol, Tennessee, gathered for a memorable evening to confer the Entered Apprentice Degree upon a new candidate. The Lodge room was filled with energy and excitement as 26 Masons from seven different lodges came together to welcome a new brother into the Craft.

Brotherhood in Action

The night began with true Masonic fellowship around the dinner table. Stewards served a hearty and homemade meal: Salisbury steak meatballs, buttery roasted garlic mashed potatoes, tender green beans, and a show-stopping peach and strawberry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream. The food was so good, many brethren went back for seconds — and Bro. Jim Pepper even returned for thirds! The sound of laughter, warm conversation, and stories filled the dining hall, reminding us all that fellowship remains at the heart of our Fraternity.

The Degree of an Entered Apprentice

After the meal, a called meeting was opened in due form to initiate the new candidate into the mysteries of Freemasonry. The degree was conferred with dignity and care by Brother Bill Caffey, with guidance and support from our Worshipful Master, David Smith, who offered closing remarks filled with gratitude and wisdom.

 

The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first step in a Mason’s journey — a symbolic beginning filled with lessons on morality, personal responsibility, and self-improvement. Passed down mouth to ear for centuries, these teachings are as timeless today as they were in the ancient guilds of stonemasons. From the rough ashlar to the working tools, each symbol holds meaning for those seeking to become better men.

A Lodge United

Among those attending were 15 visitors and 11 members, including two Fifty-Year Masons — Bro. Frank Galloway and Bro. Jim Pepper — whose decades of service continue to inspire. The seven lodges represented were:

  • M.M. Martin Lodge No. 547

  • Johnson Lodge No. 274

  • Zollicoffer Lodge No. 444

  • Sinking Creek Lodge No. 575

  • Whiteside Lodge No. 13

  • Rhea Lodge No. 47

  • Middleport Lodge No. 463

Each visitor was warmly received, and several brethren spoke during the meeting, reflecting on their Masonic journey and offering words of encouragement to our new Brother.

Welcome to the Journey

The newly made mason now begins his path in Freemasonry — a lifelong journey guided by light, fellowship, and purpose. We are honored to call him our Brother and look forward to walking alongside him as he continues through the degrees.

 

If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be a Mason — if you seek friendship, personal growth, and a deeper connection to values that matter — we invite you to start your own journey. Just ask. Visit our Contact Page and reach out. A warm welcome and open door await.

 

Article by

Bro. Wes Leonard, Secretary