Fellowcraft Degree held Nov 4th, 2024

On November 4, 2024, King Lodge No. 461, Free and Accepted Masons of Bristol, Tennessee, held a special called meeting to advance a Brother to the degree of Fellowcraft. With eight officers present, the lodge opened in due form, demonstrating the ancient customs and traditions of Freemasonry.

In the Fellowcraft degree held on November 4, 2024, at King Lodge No. 461, Brother Chaplain shared a poignant scripture reading from Matthew 10:24-26: “The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known.”

This passage speaks to humility, learning, and the pursuit of truth—all essential elements of the Fellowcraft degree in Freemasonry. The Fellowcraft degree symbolizes a Mason’s journey through learning and self-improvement, as he advances in both skill and understanding. Much like the disciple learning from the master, the Fellowcraft learns from his brethren, recognizing that growth requires humility, patience, and dedication to seeking truth.

Matthew 10:24-26 reminds us that a true disciple seeks to emulate the values of his master, just as the Fellowcraft strives to embody the wisdom and virtues modeled by more experienced Masons. The scripture also reassures us that, although a Mason may face challenges or misunderstandings from those who do not share his values, he should continue his path with confidence. In time, the virtues he cultivates and the truths he seeks will be revealed, strengthening his spirit and sense of purpose.

This reflection is especially fitting for the Brother, as he embarks on his journey through the degrees of Freemasonry. The Fellowcraft degree is not simply about passing another milestone; it is about embracing the lifelong pursuit of wisdom and self-improvement.

The Brother was then formally received into the lodge and passed to the degree of Fellowcraft in an solemn ceremony led by Brother Jim Pepper. Special thanks to all who attended and contributed to the success of the evening.

The degree meeting was well attended, with 23 Masons present, including eight visitors representing five different lodges: Sinking Creek Lodge No. 575, Zollicoffer Lodge No. 444, M.M. Martin Lodge No. 547, Whiteside Lodge No. 13, and Johnson Lodge No. 274. Among the attendees were three esteemed 50-year Masons—Brothers Jim Pepper, Frank Galloway, and Earl Richards—whose presence underscored the lodge’s commitment to honoring the legacy and continuity of the craft.

As the night concluded, newly made and seasoned Masons alike shared remarks, reflecting on the significance of the evening and the journey of Freemasonry. The lodge was closed in harmony, marking the successful passage of the Brother to the Fellowcraft degree.

If you are interested in becoming a Freemason and joining a fraternity that fosters personal growth, camaraderie, and community involvement, we invite you to contact King Lodge No. 461 for more information.

Article by 

Bro. Weston Leonard

Secretary, King Lodge No 461