Strength in Unity: A Powerful Night of Fellowship at the Grand Master’s Visitation in Deerfield Beach
Eastern Star Standing Up To Speak The Current Government Shutdown
On Friday, October 4th, 2025, members of the Masonic family across Zone 3 gathered at First Zion Missionary Baptist Church (125 SW 1st Ct, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441) for a remarkable evening of unity, dialogue, and fellowship during the Grand Master’s Visitation. This significant event was held under the protection of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge, Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity Free & Accepted Masons of Florida, Belize, Central America & Jurisdiction, Inc., Prince Hall Affiliated, and presided over by The Honorable Gus Harris, 20th Most Worshipful Grand Master.
More than just a formality, this visitation served as a reminder of our shared responsibilities, our enduring commitment to community, and the power of coming together as Brothers and Sisters united in purpose.
Zone 3 Comes Together in Strength and Fellowship
The energy in the sanctuary was uplifting as lodges and Eastern Star Chapters from across Zone 3 came together for this momentous occasion. The presence of so many committed members—each bringing their unique perspectives and passion for the Craft—made it clear that this jurisdiction is both active and forward-thinking.
The Honorable Gus Harris addressed the assembled body with wisdom, humility, and clarity. His remarks centered on not only preserving our traditions, but also pushing ourselves to evolve in response to the changing needs of our lodges and communities. He reminded us that leadership is not just about ceremony or titles—it’s about action, accountability, and service.
Discussing Challenges, Developing Solutions
What set this Grand Master’s Visitation apart was the open forum and honest conversations that followed. Brothers and Sisters didn’t hesitate to speak on some of the real challenges affecting both our Masonic bodies and our surrounding communities. These discussions were productive, respectful, and solution-oriented.
Some of the major topics included:
Lodge growth and member engagement
Support for aging members and struggling families
Improving communication and unity across lodges and chapters
Strengthening youth mentorship and scholarship programs
Addressing economic pressures and increasing charitable impact
What was truly inspiring was that each concern came paired with thoughtful ideas and proactive energy. We weren’t just identifying issues—we were creating pathways forward. The dialogue gave birth to several exciting ideas, including:
Cross-lodge mentorship initiatives for new and young members
Monthly service projects open to all Zone 3 members
Greater collaboration between Eastern Star Chapters and lodges on community outreach
Investment in leadership development and succession planning
Enhanced use of social media and technology to reach and retain members
This type of engaged collaboration reflects the true spirit of our Craft—not just talking about solutions but being willing to build them together.
Food, Fellowship, and Family at Tradewinds Park
Following the visitation, the celebration continued with a family-style cookout and get-together at Tradewinds Park (3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073). This casual event was the perfect way to unwind and deepen the bonds formed earlier in the evening.
The park was filled with laughter, the smell of grilled food, and the joyful sounds of children playing while Brothers and Sisters from across the region fellowshipped under the South Florida sun. It was more than just a cookout—it was a reminder that we are a family, not just an organization.
There was something special about breaking bread together after such a meaningful gathering. Plates were loaded with barbecue, mac and cheese, baked beans, and more—all prepared with love by the cooks and volunteers who made the meal feel like home. People gathered under shaded pavilions to share stories, introduce their families, and reconnect in a laid-back environment that emphasized the relational core of our Masonic journey.
Whether seated at a picnic table or tossing a football across the grass, every interaction added another layer of trust and camaraderie among the members of our fraternity and Eastern Star family.
Honoring Our Leadership
We extend our deepest thanks to The Honorable Gus Harris, 20th Most Worshipful Grand Master, for his steadfast leadership, and for taking the time to visit, listen, and encourage the members of Zone 3. His presence reminded us of the power of connection and the importance of staying grounded in our mission.
We also thank the officers of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge and the leadership from across the Zone 3 lodges and Eastern Star Chapters. Your dedication and planning made this event not only possible but deeply impactful.
A heartfelt thank you goes to First Zion Missionary Baptist Church for graciously hosting the visitation and to everyone who helped coordinate the cookout at Tradewinds Park. Your hospitality and support provided the perfect spaces for both reflection and celebration.
Looking Forward with Purpose
The Grand Master’s Visitation in Deerfield Beach wasn’t just another date on the calendar—it was a turning point. It reminded us that even in times of change and challenge, we are never alone. Our strength lies in our unity, and when we come together with open minds and open hearts, there is no obstacle we cannot overcome.
The commitments made on October 4th won’t end there. They will continue to take shape in lodge meetings, service projects, mentorship circles, and in the lives of the people we’re called to serve. Every conversation, every handshake, and every idea shared brought us one step closer to a stronger future.
Final Reflections
As we return to our respective lodges and chapters, we do so with renewed energy, a clearer vision, and a deeper sense of purpose. We are reminded that our work is sacred, our mission is vital, and our fraternity—when united—is unstoppable.
Working under the protection of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge, Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity Free & Accepted Masons of Florida, Belize, Central America & Jurisdiction, Inc., Prince Hall Affiliated, we move forward inspired and determined.
To The Honorable Gus Harris, thank you for your leadership and presence.
To the lodges and chapters of Zone 3—thank you for your service and your spirit.
And to every Brother and Sister—the work continues, and the future is bright.
One Brotherhood. One Purpose. One Future.
