A Legacy of Light: Brother Jim L. Irwin Sr. Receives 50-Year Award of Gold

On the evening of May 5, 2026, the atmosphere at our May Stated Meeting was one of profound history and fraternal pride. The lodge gathered not just for routine business, but to witness a milestone that few achieve: the presentation of the 50-Year Award of Gold to Brother Jim L. Irwin Sr.

This remarkable honor is a distinctive mark of the fraternity’s gratitude, reserved for those who have dedicated a half-century of their lives to the principles of Freemasonry. It serves as a testament to Brother Jim’s steadfast character and his enduring commitment to the craft.

A Distinguished Presentation

The evening was made even more memorable by the presence of Right Worshipful Brother John Bridegroom, the Deputy Grand Master of the State of Indiana. RWB Bridegroom took the floor to personally present Brother Jim with the iconic golden pin and a special commemorative certificate.

During the ceremony, the Deputy Grand Master offered incredibly thoughtful remarks, reflecting on the weight of fifty years of service and the impact such longevity has on the strength of our fraternity. For those who were unable to attend, or for those wishing to revisit the moment, his full address is captured in the video recording of the event.

A Half-Century of Service

The presentation of the "Gold" is more than a ceremony; it is a celebration of a journey that began five decades ago. Brother Jim’s Masonic history reflects a steady and dedicated climb through the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry:

  • Entered Apprentice: February 21, 1974
  • Fellow Craft: May 16, 1974
  • Master Mason: January 9, 1975

Since being raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason in early 1975, Brother Jim has been a pillar of our Lodge. As we look at the golden pin now adorning his lapel, we are reminded that the strength of our lodge is built upon the shoulders of men who remain true to their obligations for a lifetime.

Please join us in congratulating Brother Jim L. Irwin Sr. on this incredible milestone.

Fifty years a Mason; a lifetime of brotherhood.

20260505_184520
20260505_184522
20260505_184531
20260505_184536
20260505_184539
20260505_184549
20260505_184520
20260505_184522
20260505_184531
20260505_184536
20260505_184539
20260505_184549
20260505_184551
20260505_184557
20260505_184605
20260505_184610
20260505_184612
20260505_184645
20260505_184656
20260505_184749
20260505_192851
20260505_192856
20260505_192912
20260505_192915
20260505_192924
20260505_192933
20260505_192936
20260505_192941
20260505_192942
20260505_192946
20260505_192954
20260505_193020
20260505_194525
20260505_194533
20260505_194538
20260505_194544
20260505_194549
20260505_194554
20260505_194557
20260505_194810
20260505_194816
20260505_194827
20260505_194837
20260505_194842
20260505_194854
20260505_194858
20260505_194904
20260505_194936
20260505_194940
20260505_194944
20260505_195901
20260505_195904
20260505_195927
20260505_195930
20260505_195932
20260505_200130
20260505_200131
20260505_200132
20260505_200133
20260505_200134
20260505_200135
20260505_200136
20260505_1845510
20260505_2001340