York
Rite Masonry
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Without the Door
by Avlin F. Bohne
Within four walls due east and west, enshrined in mystery,
Our plans we draw on trestleboard and thank our Deity.
Our Lodge is duly tiled, as in the days of yore,
By a Brother Master Mason standing guard “without the door.”
But not confined to man-made walls, a Lodge of modern day--
From east to west, from north to south-- greet Brethren on their way.
Our laws remain; our vows the same, embracing ancient lore;
A Lodge too great to estimate exists “without the door.”
Chartered by our own desire, governed by our bond,
This Lodge of Masons’ fellowship is built on common ground.
Where e’re a Brother travels, be it near or distant shore,
He will always meet a Brother in the Lodge “without the door.”
Once, at refreshment (a time now past), and labor ceased for the while,
A journey I’d take for pleasure’s sake; a journey of modern style.
Refreshing myself with corn, wine and oil, as did our Brothers before,
A Brother, by chance, in like circumstance, I met “without the door.”
Hands were clasped, names exchanged and stories told with pride;
A pleasure shared to visit there, a pleasure not to hide.
But now to part, our visit done, perhaps to meet no more,
We’re richer far by meeting there, in the Lodge “without the door.”
And ere we’d part and go our ways, this meeting not to perish,
With pleasured look he signed my book; a note to ever cherish.
We parted there upon the square, but as in days of yore,
On a page of life his MARK he made, in the Lodge “without the door.”
Not confined to Lodge’s hall; not confined to meetings,
A journey here, a journey there to spread fraternal greetings.
There’s craft to seek, craft to greet. Wise in ancient lore
Are many Brothers yet to meet, in the Lodge “without the door.”
8 Alvin F. Bohne, PM
711 Decorah Lane
Mendota Hts. MN 55120
e-mail albohne@juno.com
M Ancient Landmark #5 AF & AM
St. Paul, MN
M Minnesota Chapter #1 Royal Arch Masons
St. Paul, MN
M St. Paul Council #1 Royal & Select Masters
St. Paul, MN
M Damascus Commandery #1 Knights Templar
St. Paul, MN