Author: charitylodge

On Sunday, November 23rd, the 61st Annual Santa Parade brought thousands of families to downtown Haverhill for one of the community’s most cherished holiday traditions. Freemasonry was strongly represented this year, with an impressive turnout from across the jurisdiction.

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, led by the Grand Master, M.W. George F. Hamilton, marched with dignity and warmth, embodying the principles of brotherhood and service. They were joined by Saggahew Lodge, the Aleppo Shriners, and Newburyport Commandery No. 3, whose presence added color, pageantry, and fraternal spirit to the procession.

Charity Lodge was proudly represented by P.M. Ali Taciroglu, who joined the parade to support our local Brothers and to demonstrate the unity and friendship that bind all Massachusetts Masons. His participation helped ensure that Charity Lodge was part of this uplifting community event, celebrating the start of the holiday season with our neighbors.

The Santa Parade remains a joyful reminder of the shared values—charity, fellowship, and civic engagement—that Freemasons strive to uphold year-round. We look forward to standing shoulder to shoulder with our Brothers again next year.

On November 9th, Worshipful Master Michael Simon and Past Master Ali Taciroglu joined our Brothers from Mount Olivet Lodge for their annual visit to Cambridge Cemetery—a heartfelt tradition dedicated to honoring veterans by placing coins upon their gravestones.

This quiet act of remembrance carries deep meaning. The custom of leaving coins on headstones became especially widespread during the Vietnam War. At a time when the nation was divided and emotions ran high, a simple coin allowed service members and civilians alike to honor the fallen without engaging in political debate or lengthy explanations. It became a silent salute—one that spoke volumes.

The gesture, however, has roots even older. Throughout history, cultures across the world have placed tokens on graves to show reverence or symbolically “pay passage” into the afterlife. In today’s military tradition, each coin left carries a distinct meaning:

• Penny — You visited to pay your respects.
• Nickel — You trained together in boot camp.
• Dime — You served in the same unit.
• Quarter — You were present when the service member passed.

Together, these coins convey a simple but powerful message:
You are remembered. You mattered. Your sacrifice endures.

Charity Lodge is proud to stand beside our Brothers at Mount Olivet Lodge in this meaningful act of remembrance. May we continue to honor the legacy of those who gave so much for the freedoms we cherish.

On November 8, 2025, Charity Lodge was strongly represented at the Valley of Boston Scottish Rite Fall Reunion, reaffirming our commitment to brotherhood, Masonic education, and active participation within the wider Masonic family.

Worshipful Master Michael Simon, P.M. Ali Taciroglu, Brother Askin Bas, Brother Doug Casey, and Charity Lodge Organist Bora Kurucu attended the Reunion, standing shoulder to shoulder with brethren from across the jurisdiction. Their presence and participation reflected the dedication and enthusiasm that continue to define Charity Lodge.

Brother Doug Casey further contributed his time and talents by working with the staging team, helping to ensure that each degree was presented with dignity, order, and precision.

A special word of recognition goes to Brother Askin Bas, who served as a member of the Massachusetts Consistory degree team. His work in the degrees exemplifies both his personal devotion to the Craft and the spirit of active involvement that Charity Lodge encourages in all its members.

During the Reunion, the following Degrees were conferred:

• 4º – Builder
• 5º – Perfect Master
• 6º – Master of the Brazen Serpent
• 16º – Prince of Jerusalem
• 18º – Knight of the Rose Croix of H. R. D. M.
• 29º – Knight of Saint Andrew
• 32º – Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret

Events such as the Fall Reunion strengthen our fraternal bonds, deepen our understanding of the Scottish Rite, and highlight the active role Charity Lodge continues to play in Massachusetts Masonry.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all who represented the Lodge with honor.

July 4, 2014

Brethren,
What an extraordinary day we are celebrating today. Independence is one of the treasured gifts that we all can enjoy. We are celebrating the 238th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. On July 4, 1776, representatives from the original thirteen colonies signed the Declaration of Independence announcing independence from British Empire. The Declaration proclaimed that “all men are created equal” and that all men enjoyed “unalienable rights” including “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Freemasons were involved in these principle throughout the history of the United States of America. The history of Freemasonry and the history of this country are very clearly interwoven. Freemasons continue to play an essential part by ensuring the foundation of a successful and productive nation. Your promise and preservation render these achievements possible. Take a time on this day to remember what independence and freedom means to you and renew your masonic obligation in your heart. Let each one of us make a promise, that as long as we live, we will be good citizens of our country in the best of our abilities and we will work to make our country into a better nation with each passing day. May our country always flourishes and rejoices many more years of independence.

Happy July 4th my Brothers,
Wor. Ali Taciroglu
Master, Charity Lodge

Annual Fishing Trip of Charity Lodge at The Gulf Of Maine.

Charity Lodge presented a check to the Salvation Army.