Members of the public had the opportunity to bear witness to a sacred ceremony within the world of Freemasonry, as The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island held a celebratory event rededicating the cornerstone of Freemasons’ Hall (222 Taunton Ave.), commemorating the 100-year anniversary of its construction.

The impressive building, notable for its bright white columns contrasted by red brick walls, was originally built for the Rising Sun Lodge No. 30. According to the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island website, it was designed by architect William Gilbert Upham of Norwood, Mass., who specialized in the design of masonic temples.

In 1992, the building was sold to the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, the central governing body of the 26 various Masonic Lodges located throughout the state, when they were seeking a new home.

Andre Faria, Jr., Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, said in a recent interview that the commemorating of a cornerstone has been an important symbolic ritual for their organization all the way back to its beginnings.

“Back in those days, there was a cornerstone placed in the northeast corner of the building, and every other stone that was laid in that building came from that stone. It was the foundation,” he said. “It had to be perfectly placed, perfectly square, perfectly level, and perfectly plumb. Because each stone after that was placed on top of it.”

The ceremony incorporates the use of the same tools that would have been used by stonemasons centuries ago, ensuring the cornerstone is square, level, and plumb. An offering of corn, wine, and oil is poured over the stone and spread, which symbolize plenty, health, happiness, and peace.

During the ceremony, Grand Masters from Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and the Master of Rhode Island’s oldest lodge (St. John’s Lodge #1), were all recognized. The Grand Masters from other states were named honorary Grand Masters of Rhode Island.

They also recognized Javier Alfonzo, a sculptor and stonemason by trade who was the first Master of the state’s first Spanish-speaking lodge, Club Masonico Libertad. Alfonzo carved a piece of Westerly granite commemorating the event.

There was a touching moment where a representative of the Grand Master of the Freemasons of the Country of Bolivia was recognized. The man was clearly struggling to find the words to express how he felt, and he indicated he didn’t speak very much English. Without hesitating, Faria asked the man in fluent Spanish if he could translate for him, which he accepted, and offered the attendees best wishes from his country and thanking them for the invitation, which drew a huge applause from the room.

“I’m married to a Spanish teacher,” Faria said, drawing a big laugh. “I had to learn Spanish!”

It was an unscripted example of the kind of atmosphere that Freemasons claim to be central to their purpose: to be accepting and welcome to all.

“That’s the principal values of being a freemason,” Faria said. “We don’t just do it. We enjoy getting together and learning about what makes us our best selves. We promote temperance, prudence, fortitude, brotherly love, and we’re called to be examples in our community of justice, fairness and truth.”

The Freemasons are known as the oldest and largest fraternity organization in human history, and date back to the 14th century. While the group began as a practical way for practicing stonemasons to keep trade secrets, it has evolved in the centuries since to become a group associated with promoting goodwill and strengthening their local community through charitable endeavors.

“The charity that you offer makes a positive difference in the lives of both ourselves and others,” said Mayor Bob DaSilva prior to presenting a certificate of recognition to the group. “That commitment to our families and friends, courtesy to our neighbors, service to our communities and country are foundations for a well-lived life, and who could possibly argue against any of that?”