Senate Resolution No. 1814

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING St. Cecile Lodge No. 568, Free and
Accepted Masons, Grand Lodge of New York, upon the
extraordinary occasion of its 160th Anniversary on
March 22, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those venerable institutions within the Masonic Family whose
enduring works of brotherhood, fellowship, and civic uplift have
enriched the cultural, spiritual, and social fabric of our communities;
and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
St. Cecile Lodge No. 568, Free and Accepted Masons, Grand Lodge of New
York, upon the extraordinary occasion of its 160th Anniversary, to be
celebrated on Sunday, March 22, 2026; and

WHEREAS, St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 was constituted in 1865, when
twelve Brothers of the musical profession, both vocal and instrumental,
presented a petition to Deputy Grand Master Robert D. Holmes seeking to
establish something virtually unprecedented in the history of
Freemasonry: a daylight lodge, born of necessity and ingenuity, so that
those whose professional obligations occupied their evenings might yet
enjoy the privileges and fellowship of the Craft; and

WHEREAS, The founding Brothers sought not only to serve themselves,
but to open the doors of Freemasonry to their fellow artists and
musicians, envisioning a "Masonic Musical Corps" that would add greater
interest and ceremonial distinction to the works of the Craft; a vision
as noble and forward-thinking as it was unique; and

WHEREAS, In the 160 years since its constitution, St. Cecile Lodge
No. 568 has welcomed into its ranks individuals of extraordinary
distinction from the worlds of music, performance, and the broader
entertainment industry, among them the legendary illusionist Harry
Houdini, celebrated entertainer Al Jolson, renowned jazz musician Bobby
Hackett, and pioneering film producer Louis B. Mayer - a brotherhood
whose collective contributions to American culture and artistic life are
without parallel; and

WHEREAS, Through six generations of dedicated Brothers, St. Cecile
Lodge No. 568 has upheld the timeless principles of Freemasonry:
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, while honoring the unique artistic
heritage upon which it was founded, and has continued to serve as a
distinguished and storied institution within the Grand Lodge of New
York; and

WHEREAS, Providing distinguished leadership for this momentous
celebration is Worshipful Master Lance Green, whose dedicated
stewardship and commitment to the principles of the Craft have guided
St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 with honor and integrity; under his leadership,
the Lodge continues to uphold the proud legacy upon which it was founded

and to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that have defined it for 160
years; and

WHEREAS, The 160th Anniversary of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 stands as
a testament to the Lodge's enduring vitality, its unwavering commitment
to the Craft, and its remarkable legacy of brotherhood, cultural
excellence, and community service across more than a century and a half;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor and commend St. Cecile Lodge No. 568, Free and Accepted Masons,
Grand Lodge of New York, upon the magnificent occasion of its 160th
Anniversary, and to recognize its extraordinary legacy of brotherhood,
artistic distinction, and devoted service to the principles of
Freemasonry; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body extends its congratulations and
warmest regards to the Officers, Brothers, and members of St. Cecile
Lodge No. 568 on this momentous milestone, and expresses its sincere
admiration for the Lodge's continued commitment to the Craft and to the
communities it so faithfully serves; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 as a token of this Legislative
Body's esteem and highest regard.