HOULTON, Maine – On Saturday, May 21, Monument Lodge No. 96 in Houlton was afforded the special opportunity to attend to the final needs of a Masonic Widow.
At the request of the family of Melva Folsom, widow of Bro. Dean R. Folsom, the Lodge conducted a memorial service and interment at the Jewell Cemetery in Monticello.
Such a service had been conducted for Bro. Dean at the time of his death in 2018. The family was so moved by the message of the service they inquired if such a service could be done by the Lodge for their mother when her time came.
Approval was obtained from the Grand Master to do such, as long as there were no specific references only appropriate for Masons. The essence of the Masonic service with references to the deceased, is to the life sought to be lived, encouragement to those attending as they go on, and of the life hereafter was believed to be appropriate. It was not to be a Masonic service, but rather a service done by Masons, wearing their aprons and jewels, for a Masonic widow upon request. It follows the motto: “It’s What Masons Do for Masons.”
The service was concluded with the presentation of four roses to the family: a red rose to remind them of the love and respect they had for Melva, wife, mother, grandmother and friend; a pink rose to remind them of the appreciation and respect that those of her community had for her; a yellow rose to bring joy and hope to them as they remember the life of Melva; and a white rose to remind all of the love and loyalty of Melva as she enters the eternal life of the beyond.
The service was conducted under the direction of Bryan Shaw, Worshipful Master of the Lodge, W. Bro. Elwood “Chip” Wilde as Chaplain, and R.W. Bro Richard L. Rhoda as Master. The service was also attended by R.W. Bro. Donald J. McDougal, Chairman of the Ritual Committee for the Grand Lodge of Maine. A copy of the ritual used for this special request has been provided to the Ritual Committee for its consideration.
