International Gavel

How it all started:

Recently, I had the idea that creating an "International traveling Gavel" would be a great idea. A Gavel that would be passed from Lodge to Lodge and Nation to Nation in the spirit of Freemasonry.

The idea came to me this morning, while I discussed the "traveling Gavel" program in our district to another one of our Brethren online. I thought the idea of doing one within the district to be a great idea as a method to help bolster local visitation, but how about a global sign of visitation? Why think small after all?

So I sent some e-mails and made some phone calls today to feel out my idea with a few others and it seemed to get a rather good reception.

One of our Brethren is really excellent at wood working and I've asked him if he could help to make this Gavel and also if it would be alright for me to help (and document) the process.

Generally my idea is as follows:

• Gavel with nice wood box
• Passed on Internationally
• Nice log book to be taken with it to record such things as: Sitting WM, Lodge Name, Lodge City/Country, Meeting Number
• Setup a website/blog to record the "life" of the Gavel
• Include details in the log book to contact me with information such as: When, where and from whom did you receive the Gavel? When, Where and to whom did you give the Gavel? (I think I should request this from both the giver and receiver to ensure that we can track the Gavel easier).
  

Who am I?

Bro. Kenneth H. Dennis
North Bay Lodge #617
North Bay, Ontario, Canada
Under the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario

I'm originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada -- Though I joined the military (Electronics Technician) and got stationed at 22 Wing North Bay, where I joined the Fraternity.

Why Do the Traveling Gavel Right Now?

After nearly six years in the military I've decided that it just isn't for me. So upon my departure from the military (October 2006) I will be going on a backpacking and travel adventure to Europe and Asia. I think that this will be a prime opportunity to start a program like this because I will be able to "get it started" as I travel.

My idea is to travel to different Lodges and ask that the WM use the Gavel to preside over the meeting I attend, thus allowing me to take the Gavel to its next location as I go. After I am done my trip and I settle back down I will release the Gavel to travel of it's own free will and accord!

How do we contact you?

My current e-mail address is: Ken.Dennis [at] Gmail.com

After I return from my global travels, I will make my mailing address known, but for now e-mail will have to suffice.

Other Stuff:

I would really love to hear your comments regarding this project, and if all goes well and one day you find yourself with this Gavel in your hands I would very much appreciate hearing about it. Think of it's beginnings, where it has been, and the spirit in which it was created.

My humblest Fraternal greetings to you all and I hope that our paths may cross one day.

Bro. Kenneth Dennis
July 7th 2006