Dec 24, 2022 | Uncategorized
Greetings Companions,
I am so pleased to be installed as High Priest of the Holy Ark Chapter. I served this Chapter as High Priest in 2007 and I am honored that you have given me an opportunity to serve again.
We need to build upon the progress that we have made in the Chapter. We have a full trestle board. Our degree cycle starts in February and we will also confer the Past Master Degree at Raymond’s Ponds later this summer. On October 18, 2023, will again host the district Charity Table Chapter.
This is an exciting time and this will be an awesome year! We welcome your full participation!
With Fervency and Zeal,
RE James R. KIntzel High Priest
Dec 24, 2022 | News & Events
C\Edward R. Grecke Jr. is bestowed the rank of Meritorious Companion
During November 16, 2022, ceremonies at the Social and Ladies/Awards Night dinner, Companion Ed Gerecke Jr. was selected by the Chapter to be elevated to the rank and dignity of Meritorious Companion.
Our dear Companion is a member of Holy Ark Chapter for 43 years and has served our Chapter in a myriad of officer stations as needed. He is also a proud 47-year member of Western Star Lodge No. 1185.
In the world outside of Masonry, Ed resides in Angola, New York. Professionally, he worked at the New York State Department of Transportation as a Civil Engineer, (PE).
He is also a member of the First Congregational Church, UCC in Angola, and in his spare time helps out at the local Meals on Wheels.
When asked what he most liked about Royal Arch he stated “Companionship.”
A Certificate of Merit was established by the Grand Chapter in 1936. This award is restricted to a Companion who has never served as a HP, but has a record of unusual loyalty, perseverance, courage and dependability.
The Companion is entitled to the initials M.C. after his name in all Chapter correspondence.
Dec 24, 2022 | Uncategorized
Excerpt of address by RE Keith E. Dash:
My Companions, I am pleased to report that the initiative of “Restore, Rebrand and Retain” was highly successful.
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, the 25th Anniversary of Holy Ark Chapter No. 304 could not be properly celebrated until the restriction could be lifted. This year, we celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the consolidation of Hamburg Chapter No. 313 and Angola Chapter No. 304, by naming a class of seven candidates in honor of the founding High Priests who came together with the merger, namely RE George Dash, (304) and RE Ronald Baumler (313). The Chapter conferred all the degrees upon these candidates over a six-month period which represented a gain of over 18% in membership.
The Chapter was engaged in many activities this year, including raising over $3,000.00 for operations and charity efforts, Presenting a 60-year DeMolay Award to RW Carl Swan during a special DeMolay Night in which Brother Marc Bohn, Past Grand Master DeMolay International was present.
He further reported that we have four Holy Ark Companions who have joined the Zerubbabel Society this year namely Keith Dash, Ed Gerecke and Gary Fazio, and John Petelin and thanked them for their devotion to Royal Arch Charities. In addition, ME Williamson was awarded the General Grand Chapter Ritualist Award in March, and “Holy Ark’s Companion of the Year” award last month. He further expounded that RE John Haslam, RE Velott Jr, RE Dash, and RE Peter Stein, all members of Holy Ark Chapter No. 304, received the coveted DeMolay Legion of Honor.
We traveled to Fairport for a Chapter Room Dedication, Raymond’s Ponds for the Degrees, hosted the Grand Lecturers Convention, donated monies to the district Charity Table Chapter held at Ames No. 88, enjoyed a Steak Bake fundraiser, as well as a catered Ladies Night/wine tasting with Awards in which Companion Ed Gerecke was bestowed a Meritorious Companion Apron.
The High Priest continued, “We my Companions have accomplished much; more needs to be done. We must keep that fire in which we have kindled burning both within ourselves and showing our Lodge brethren, here is where you receive Master’s Wages, receive the real word and the Light we all seek”.
In closing he humbly thanked everyone for this honor to serve, and pledged his support to the newly elected and appointed officers in all of their endeavors. He concluded with: “May the New Year bring you peace and prosperity, good health, and happiness. Holiness to the Lord.”
Dec 15, 2021 | Uncategorized
My Companions,
I am truly humbled that you have placed your trust in me to build on the successes of Holy Ark Chapter for 2022. I wished to express my gratitude to R. E. Jim Kintzel and his installing team for a superb job and wish to thank M.E. Jeffrey Williamson for his counsel and guidance. It has been 30 years since I have served as High Priest but be assured, the time between these terms of office have not altered my enthusiasm or dedication.
We are the stewards of the True Word, and as such have a tradition or rather obligation to share light with all who seek!
Royal Arch Masonry is the keystone of Masonry in general but to our symbolic Lodge in particular. For that reason, our mantra needs to be “Compliment not Compete” with our Lodges.
Capitular Masonry is not a separate entity! It is a continuation of the virtues, allegory and tenets discovered in the three degrees of Freemasonry. It is a completion of the historical tradition upon which our Craft was founded. We, my companions must rededicate ourselves to assist in whatever tasks our Lodges desire. So that when our work is complete and the Lodge task answered, our Lodge brethren will recognize us as upright men and Royal Arch Masons.
Our chapter has just completed its 25th year of service to our craft. This year the officers and companions have planned many events to commemorate this milestone. This year will feature many of our established traditions, with new approaches and new events designed for enlightenment and enjoyment. I urge all companions to refer to our chapter’s Trestle Board as well as your regular attendance to our Chapter Convocations.
The Covid Pandemic continues as we usher in a new Capitular Year and with it, we will no doubt be faced with further challenges. We must however stay the course and pick up the Crow which will enable us to lift things of great weight and bulk that encumbers our progress toward virtue. Very similar to our ancient brethren when faced with erecting the House of the Lord, we to may be faced with difficulty. Just as they, we will prevail!
May the Great Architect of the Universe bless each of you and your families with health and happiness in the New Year.
Yours in Companionship!
RE Keith E. Dash
High Priest
Dec 15, 2021 | Uncategorized
Greetings Companions,
Well, like the Frank Sinatra song declares “And now, the end is near. And I must face the final curtain.”
My Companions, my time in the “East of the Sanctuary” has come to its conclusion and I must say, it was my honor to serve our Chapter and I truly enjoyed the experience. I am enriched by the many memories we created and grateful for the opportunity serve you!
There is an old axiom in leadership: to leave an organization in better shape than how you found it. In looking back, I must say our Chapter has all the tools and experience necessary to succeed, it just needed a gentle jump-start to get us back in motion.
We have accomplished so much over the last few years, from foundational elements such as updating and approving our bylaws, and due’s structure, creating a budget, and cleaning up our roster, implementing the mandated Grand Chapter data base and establishing good business relations with the Grand Chapter Officers and management. We have updated the General Grand Chapter magazine list, and EVERYONE should be receiving the quarterly publication.
We now have 42 Companions on our rolls and have received recognition from Grand Chapter for such an increase in membership. In addition, we recognized the Covid-19 challenges by implemented a monthly newsletter which was “chock-full” of educational materials to enrich the Companions minds during this sequestered period of isolation.
Additionally, we have successfully conferred the Mark Master, the Past Master, and the Holy Royal Arch Degrees which were competently and impressively portrayed.
We enjoyed great moments of fellowship such as our Wild Shirt Cigar Steak Bake, Table Chapter, Meritorious Companion Presentation, Grand Presentation, Raymond’s Ponds sojourn and wine tasting weekend. We visited a few Chapters and Grand Lecturers Conventions.
In short, we have given our Companions a reason to attend our Convocations and to enjoy the benefits of being a Royal Arch Mason. I am especially excited to see the response to RE Keith Dash’s recruitment of new line officers which portends the magnificent upturn in our membership. When new leadership takes over there is an automatic increase in energy and excitement, and I am already charged up for a new and sensational 2022.
In summary, I am very proud of Holy Ark our Chapter No. 304, and I hope you are as well! I thank you for your continued support as we all assume new and different rolls in our Chapter. The final linchpin to real success is to pass these leadership roles down to the next generation, and I look with great satisfaction to seeing this unfold before my very eyes! I remain, with fervency and zeal, your loyal Companion!
ME Jeffrey Williamson,
High Priest
Oct 23, 2020 | Uncategorized
RE Bert Larson, designated “Dean of Past High Priests”, RE Fred Velott Jr, awarded “Secretary Emeritus” and RE Ron Baumler awarded GRand Representative New South Wales.
Mar 10, 2020 | Uncategorized
Holy Ark Chapter No. 304 is pleased to host the visitation of Right Excellent Jamie Kiam, Jr. to the Sixteenth Capitular District on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. The Grand Visitor program is designed in such a manner that a progressing Grand Chapter Officer will have visited the entire jurisdiction prior to being elected Grand High Priest. It is an opportunity for the Companions to learn about our future leaders, and a time for the Grand Chapter Officers to share their ideas and concerns with the members. It is expected that the other Chapters in the District and surrounding area will also attend this important meeting.
That evening, Holy Ark Chapter No. 304 is recognizing and honoring our beloved Companion RE J. Frederick Velott, Jr. as “Secretary Emeritus” of the Chapter. Companion Fred has labored in the quarries for many years and has gained the esteem of Companions all around the Western New York area. There will be several presentations and proclamations in his honor and we hope you will join us on this joyful tribute and celebration.
A dinner is schedule preceding the convocation. We are offering a tasty oven baked breaded one inch thick pork loin entrée (similar to pork chop) with baby salt potatoes, spring vegetables, salad, rolls and butter, together with coffee and tea with dessert.
The cost for the dinner is ($12.00) twelve dollars.
Dinner is scheduled for six o’clock PM and reservations are a “must” to Companion Scribe Dennis Lyons telephone: 716-912-3809 or e-mail: Trapperpd@verizon.net In order to properly buy-up the job; the deadline is seven days from the event May 13, 2020.
Let’s give our Grand Visitor and Secretary Emeritus a big Western New York welcome! We appreciate your support and look forward to greeting you in our Chapter Room that evening!
With Fervency and Zeal,
MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, High Priest
Mar 10, 2020 | Uncategorized
Dear Companions of Holy Ark Chapter,
It was a real pleasure to be the official representative from Holy Ark Chapter No. 304. I love the annual migration to Albany! It reminds me of the march of the penguins! Nothing stops us! We had a great turnout. The fellowship is always outstanding, and the best part of the weekend is renewing old friendships and making new ones as well! Also attending from our Chapter was RE Paul Barrera Jr. and his Lady Donna and RE John Haslam, Sr. and Ex. Peter Stein.
There were several highpoints this year:
- Companion John Haslam received a commission from the Grand Chapter of Virginia directly from their Grand High Priest! Congratulations Right Excellent John!
- I had the privilege of installing ME David H. Raymond and the Grand Chapter Officers together with ME Bruce Renner as ME Installing Grand Captain of the Host.
- ME RJ Kessler and the team from Tonawanda Keystone No. 71 did an outstanding job conferring the Order of High Priesthood on the incoming High Priests!
- Ex Peter Stein received the Keystone Award for bringing in at least five new candidates!
- RE Brian Singer advanced to the Grand King’s position as well as receiving the prestigious Ezra Ames Medal for his work with the youth groups. Congratulations!
- R E G. Franklin Gaskill was installed DDGHP of our District! Congratulations Frank! He will be making his official visitation in October.
- The Order of Old Saratoga had 29 new members which raised over two thousand dollars for the Grand Chapter charities! Everyone had a great time! If you ever decide to visit Grand Chapter, make it a POINT to receive the Order of Old Saratoga!
- The Ladies theme baskets raised over thousand dollars! Congratulations on a job well done.
- The Royal Arch Charities had the second highest amount collected in recent times.
- The Zerrubabel Society (those Companions who pledge $100.00 per year for ten years) has over 360 members with many receiving double, triple diamonds or more! If anyone is interested in becoming a member and receiving a Zerrubabel Jewel and lapel pin, please contact the Chapter or District Deputy and we will get you enrolled.
- The Royal Arch Masonic Medical Research Foundation completed its 3 year pledge and presented a check in the amount of $175,000.00 for the Microscopy Room located in the MMRI.
- In addition, The Royal Arch Masonic Medical Research Foundation combined with an estate donation (with thanks to ME Huck) and presented a check in the amount of $60,000.00 for the Histology Suite. The unveiling ceremony will be held in the summer months.
ME David Raymond’s theme is “I CARE” and each letter represent various action items and projects he wants us to focus on. His pins are very attractive and high quality and are on sale for $5.00 each. I’m sure that RE Gaskill or RE Singer will have them for sale.
Feb 17, 2020 | Photo Galleries
Prior to our Convocation, Companion Scribe Dennis Lyons set up a very nice Wegman’s Submarine luncheon complete with chips, cookies and drinks for the enjoyment of those present.
Approximately twelve noon, the Special Communication commenced. The Chapter Officers opened the Chapter in full form thereby demonstrating their proficiency before the Grand Scribe. Congratulations to the Officers for a job well done!
After opening the Chapter, the Canadian Visitors were admitted into the Chapter room. Recognizing the large amount of work on the Chapter Trestle board, ME Williamson offered a general and cordial welcomed to everyone in attendance.
Our Canadian Visitors included RE John Newton, Ex. Comp. Tim Whitfield, V. Ex. Comp. John H. Perham – who is recovering from a triple bypass and valve replacement, Ex. Comp. William (Bill) Hodwitz, Ex. Comp. Terry Kirk, R. Ex. Comp. Richard Shave, Ex. Comp. Gerry Candelino, Charles Lemmex, Terry Kirk, Roland Barnes and Kyle MacDonald.
There were several delegations and notable individuals in attendance from local Chapters such as East Aurora, Arcade, Tonawanda-Keystone, Le Roy and Arcade Chapters. Many Grand Line dignitaries were present including RE Steven R. Shearer, GRAC, RE Brian Singer, Grand Scribe, RE David Raymond, Grand King, and ME Paul Huck, GHP GC Royal Arch Masons, State of NY.
The Chapter was pleased to welcome RE John Newton and Ex. Companion RE Tim Whitfield who affiliated as new members. Congratulations and welcome to the team!
The Mark Master and Past Master Degrees were conferred on a large class of members. The Chapter also welcomes the following NEW members (all Brothers): James M. Lovullo, Western Star Lodge 1185, David J. Peters, Western Star Lodge 1185, Jeffery E. Thomas, Living Stone 255, William W. Dawson, III Living Stone 255, Alex Casucci, Living Stone 255 and William Adam, West Seneca Lodge 1111.
Seven or eight companions from East Aurora Chapter were present with a constitutional number of members needed to vote on several new members at this metering. This is a very exciting turn of events for the Chapter…Congratulations!
At the end of the meeting ME Paul Huck, GHP GC Royal Arch Masons, State of NY addressed the candidates. He expressed his congratulations and stressed the need for each candidate to further their Masonic education and learn about the degrees. ME Williamson and ME Huck next presented authentic Jewish Shekels to the candidate as a token of the event.
There being no further business, the Grand High Priest waived the reading of the minutes and directed the Secretary to e-mail the minutes to the Companions. He then closed the Chapter in ample form. The assembly retired downstairs to the collation room to enjoy drinks, punch and cake. Special thanks to RE Keith Poppendeck handling the post-Chapter meeting refreshments.
Our next Regular Convocation will be April 15, 2020- Official Visit of the DDGHP and Special Honors Presentation to RE J. Frederick Velott Jr., Secretary Emeritus. 6:00 PM Dinner, 7:30 PM Stated Convocation, Dress: Sport Coat & Tie.
Dec 21, 2019 | News & Events
Companions
We opened the December 18, 2019 Convocation of Holy Ark Chapter at 5:00 PM in order to get ahead of the busy evening ahead of us. After opening the Chapter High Priest Gary Fazio and Companion Dennis Lyons prepared a “Make your Own” submarine sandwich dinner. Many thanks to them!
At 7:30 PM we conferred the Past Master degree upon four of our Canadian visitors. At the conclusion of the degree they were given a Chapter Penny and a special card signifying that they received the NY Past Master Degree. Our thanks to RE Jim MacConnell for conferring the degree together with RE Fred Velott Jr as Marshal, RE Paul Czubaj as Sr Deacon who also did Q&A’s with RE Keith Poppendeck. Participating in the degree was Ex Selom Adjogah, RE Pepper Weinheimer III and several others.
RE Jim Kintzel conducted the elections and ME RJ Kessler and Ex John Haslam Sr. officiated in the Installation together with RE Gaskill, RE Singer and Ex Dinatale and MW Sullivan. Thanks to everyone for their fine efforts!
Special distinction was conferred upon RE Velott Jr. who was elected Secretary Emeritus… congratulations Fred! A special program will be held in April to honor this distinguished Companion. Ex Gary Fazio was presented with a special Royal Arch and Cryptic Apron and the Imediate PHP jewel.
After the meeting the Companions retired to the Collation Hall to enjoy a special cake and punch which was furnished by RE Poppendeck. A great time was had by all! Merry Christmas!
