Laying the Cornerstone

Building a New Year and Foundation in Freemasonary

by
Senior Warden
Ed Arico

The act of laying the cornerstone is far more than a mere architectural necessity. It is a deeply symbolic ritual that marks the beginning of a significant endeavor. Entered Apprentices are set in the Northeast corner to mark the start of their journey and the future of the craft. Today's laborers become tomorrow's overseers, so it is important to guide new Masons attentively as they become the foundation of our lodges.

The cornerstone is chosen with care and often evaluated to ensure it is “true” that is, perfectly square, level, and plumb and placed with ceremony, representing the ideals of strength, stability, and virtue. In Masonry, it is a metaphor for the individual’s character; a basis upon which a life of integrity and purpose can be constructed.

As the New Year approaches a time that is universally associated with renewal, fresh beginnings, and reflection. There emerges a unique parallel between the ceremonial laying of a cornerstone and the personal foundations everyone is encouraged to set for the coming year.

 Just as a cornerstone marks the start of a new structure, the New Year offers the chance to reset, reorient, and recommit to personal and communal goals.

Setting resolutions helps lay a solid groundwork for the upcoming year. Setting these intentions mindfully, and with the diligence of a master builder, can ensure that the structure of one’s life is both sturdy and purposeful. The symbolism of the cornerstone reminds us that a solid foundation is essential for enduring success and fulfillment.

Our Masonic cornerstone ceremony and the symbolism of the New Year offers a powerful reminder: every significant endeavor be it the construction of a temple, the formation of character, or the pursuit of a new chapter in life begins with a solid foundation. As we stand at the threshold of another year, may we each be inspired to lay our own cornerstones with care, intention, and the wisdom drawn from timeless tradition.

Order Of The Eastern Star Of Arizona 

Verde Valley Chapter No7

534 S 12th St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326

Secretary: Barbara Wunder, PGM

602-290-9547   barbara.wundervv7@gmail.com

Stated Meetings: First Tuesday at 7:30PM

Dark: July and August

2025-2026 GRAND LINE OFFICERS

Grand Master Most Worshipful Leigh Creighton

Deputy Grand Master Right Worshipful Roger Biede III

Senior Grand Warden  Right Worshipful Eric Dupree

Juni​or Grand Warden Right Worshipful James Xie

Grand Secretary​​ Very Worshipful  Greg Vasquez, PGM

Grand Treasurer Very Worshipful Ron Richards

Deputy Grand Secretary MWPGM Jim Baker

Deputy Grand Treasurer Brother John Olson

Senior Grand Deacon Worshipful Brother Reed Houge

Junior Grand Deacon Worshipful Brother​​ Steve Bracety

Senior Grand Steward Worshipful Brother William Carnell

Junior Grand Steward Worshipful Brother​​ Michael Flutty

Grand Lecturer WB David Fierro​

Grand Chaplain VR WB Nathan Schick

Grand Orator WB Thomas Carpenter 

Grand Marshal WB Lew Ivy

Grand Standard Bearer David Aguayo

Grand Sword Bearer WB Timothy Strasser

Grand Bible Bearer WB Harold Lindamood

Grand Pursuivant WB DJ Arps

Grand Organist Jonathan Edward D’Emilio

Grand Editor WB George Balady, Jr.

Grand Tyler WB Augustin Delgado

Grand Counsel WB Richard Leland Brooks

Grand Photographer WB Allen Nichols  

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