Celebrating Brotherhood Beyond the Lodge Walls
At King Lodge No. 461, we believe that the bonds of brotherhood extend far beyond the walls of our lodge building. Tonight, we had the privilege of celebrating Bro. Jim Pepper’s 85th birthday in true Masonic fashion—through camaraderie, fellowship, and good food. Brethren gathered at Southern Craft BBQ in Bristol, VA, where we shared a meal family-style, enjoying a spread of smoked meats and classic Southern sides. It was an evening filled with laughter, storytelling, and the warmth of brotherly love that defines our fraternity.
Adding to the celebration, Bro. Mason Baker provided a custom birthday cake, making the occasion even more special. And in a nod to Bro. Pepper’s well-known love of cooking with bacon grease, he was presented with a 5lb bucket of refined bacon grease—a fitting and humorous gift that was met with much appreciation and laughter. The event saw brothers from both King Lodge No. 461 and Zollicoffer Lodge No. 444 come together, including past masters, current masters, and several officers, reinforcing the strong ties that bind our fraternity.
Freemasonry is more than just ritual and meetings—it is a way of life that emphasizes Brotherhood, Relief, and Truth. As we continue to grow and strengthen our lodge, we look forward to more opportunities to gather outside of formal meetings, sharing in the fellowship that makes Masonry so unique and rewarding.
If you are interested in learning more about Freemasonry and how to join us in this timeless tradition of brotherhood, we invite you to reach out. Contact us to discover how you can become a Mason and be part of a fraternity that values friendship, community, and personal growth.
Article by
Brother Weston Leonard
Secretary King Lodge 461