Members of Dunes Masonic Lodge 741 in Portage recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of their charter. A ceremony steeped in allegory and symbolism commemorated the event. Kenneth Willis Jr., grand master of the Indiana Masons, traveled from Indianapolis to conduct the ceremony. Members from local and state lodges donned white aprons and royal blue chain collars, then filed into an adjoining room with their families. Dunes Lodge master Stanley Mills welcomed the group, introduced guests and initiated the proceedings. Willis walked to the center of the room, removed his black silk top hat and placed it over his left shoulder. He poured a vessel of corn on a mat and dedicated the hall to Freemasonry. He explained that corn was the emblem of nourishment. Next, he dedicated the hall to virtue by pouring wine, the emblem of refreshment. From a third vessel he poured oil as a symbol of joy. Willis dedicated the building to universal benevolence in the name of the whole fraternity. more Solemn ceremony marks Masonic lodge's 50th anniversary :: Neighbors :: Post-Tribune
