The Orinda Masonic Lodge #122 will mark 75 years of community service with a Cornerstone Ceremony on Nov. 22. The public is invited to witness the ceremonial ritual, which will be led by California Grand Master Garrett S. Chan.
This year marks a significant milestone for the Orinda Masonic Lodge #122, celebrating 75 years of service, fellowship and community engagement. For Larry P. Becker, PM (past master) of the Lodge in 2006, the anniversary is a testament to the enduring strength of Freemasonry in California.
“When other businesses and organizations are going under, it is great to see that Freemasonry in California is still active and strong after 175 years,” Becker said. “Locally, we started in Alamo, moved to Concord, and over the years consolidated with other Lodges to establish a newer, larger building in Orinda in 1950.”
The first Masonic lodge in California was established in San Francisco in 1850 and globally, the first official Masonic lodge was established around the late 16th century in Scotland, roughly 425 years ago.
“There are over 340 Masonic Lodges in California,” said Becker. “We are in every state and over 100 countries around the world.”
Orinda’s Lodge #122 is currently presided over by Lodge Master Michael Malliarys of Orinda, though on Dec. 6 new Lodge Master, Mick Finein, PM, of Alameda, will take over.
Over the past 75 years, the Lodge has evolved to play a vital role in the Orinda community. Members have participated in the July 4th parade since 2008, sponsored the Miramonte Speech Program for more than 20 years, and donated to a variety of charitable organizations. Youth programs such as DeMolay for boys and Eastern Star and Jobs Daughters for girls, along with initiatives like Mitts 4 Kids, Raising a Reader, and support for handicapped Little League baseball, have helped countless local families.
“Our goal is to make a man better, and charity is our number one priority,” Becker explained. “Through our actions, we support Masons in need at the Masonic Home in Union City and we welcome those of good character who seek personal growth.”
Looking ahead, Becker hopes the Lodge will continue to develop strong leaders and serve the community for another 75 years.
Planned improvements to the Lodge building, continued collaborations with neighboring Acalanes Lodge, and community events such as BBQs and dinners supporting Masonic widows are all part of the vision for the future.
Becker, who was born and raised in San Francisco and has been a member of the Orinda Lodge for over 26 years, emphasizes the personal growth aspect of Freemasonry.
“If a person wants to learn more about themselves, polish up those Golden Rules, virtues or Ten Commandments, Masonry can help. We accept members who believe in a God and come from diverse religious backgrounds – Catholics, Jews, Muslims – and encourage everyone to get involved in charitable causes,” he said.
75th Anniversary Celebration
The Orinda Masonic Lodge #122 will commemorate its 75th anniversary with a Cornerstone Ceremony and re-dedicate the lodge building for the next 75 years. The event will be hosted by the Grand Master of all Masons in California, Garrett S. Chan, along with members of the Grand Lodge.
This traditional ritual, rooted in centuries of Masonic history, signifies the foundation of the building and a commitment to moral principles.
During the ceremony, the cornerstone will be tested using the square, level and plumb to ensure it is true and sound. Corn, wine and oil will be spread on the stone, symbolizing nourishment, refreshment and joy for the community.
Orinda Lodge #122’s mission is to promote personal growth, improve the lives of others and strengthen the community through respect, kindness and charitable action. Freemasonry, the world’s first and largest fraternal organization, has for over 300 years provided fellowship, opportunities for service and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Located at located at 9 Altarinda Road, Orinda, the Nov. 22 celebration (which is open to the public) will go from 11 to 12 p.m. A light lunch is provided and RSVP is required by emailing orindalodge122@gmail.com or contacting 925.254.5211. For more information about Masonry or the Orinda Masonic Lodge, visit orindalodge.org.
