barryguitar

Yes, the same celebration(s) is (are) lacking in Florida. There are 2 St. John's Days as there are 2 Saints John. June 24 is the Day of St. John the Baptist on Midsummer's day. May 6 or (traditionally) December 27 is the Day of St. John the Apostle and Evengelist. There should be a lot of information about Masonic celebrations on the Feast of St. John (Dec 27). Here is one view: http://www.freemasons-freemasonry.com/ward.html

In reading the book, The Hiram Key, the author emphasized the (probable) Egyptian origins of the two pillars. Perhaps these two Saints John can be seen as serving in some way reminiscent of the two pillars representing strength and establishment (and kingly and priestly roles).

Before I was master of my lodge in 2005 in Florida, I had thought about planning 2 feasts and then got busy with running the lodge, etc. By tradition, lodge bylaws, and Florida Masonic law, we had our installation of officers soon after Dec 27 with food and festivities. Then the M:.W:. Grand Lodge of Florida has its annual communication on or around June 24. Perhaps these dates coincide in many state Grand Lodge jurisdictions and around the world.

I am returning to my native state, Texas, this weekend after 8 years in W Palm Beach and 4 years in Nashville. I grew up in Houston but will be moving to Austin.

Just last week, my wife and I drove by Cumberland Lodge #8, F & AM of TN, of which President and Brother Sam Houston had been a member. It is tucked in a neighborhood right next to a municipal golf course and has two lion statues in front. I have enjoyed visiting the grand lodges of both TN and FL, participating in York Rite dinners hearing some excellent, inspiring speakers, and pondering the meaning behind many symbols.

In June, I took my 14-year-old son to Alexandria, VA, to visit the George Washington Masonic Memorial. It was awesome!

I look forward to helping throw many parties in honor of the holy Saints John, the principles they taught, and the Great Architect of the Universe whom they worshipped.