In a blend of historical tradition and educational advancement, the Grand Lodge of Masons of Nebraska and Masonic Lodge 26 of Beatrice participated in a cornerstone laying ceremony at the newly constructed Beatrice Elementary School on Saturday. The event, which took place in the school's commons area, brought together representatives from Beatrice Public Schools, Huesman Construction, and the local VFW Honor Guard.
Superintendent Jason Alexander emphasized the significance of the occasion, praising the vision, leadership, and teamwork that brought the project to fruition. "Our kids deserve the best we can give them, and we've tried to do that," Alexander stated, expressing optimism about the future of education in Beatrice.
John Ferguson, grand master of the Masons of Nebraska, led the symbolic ceremony, explaining its deeper meaning. "Masonry relies heavily on symbolism to relay its message," Ferguson said. He elaborated on how masonic tools are used metaphorically to impart moral and ethical lessons, with the cornerstone representing morality, the level symbolizing equality, and the plumb teaching rectitude of conduct.
The ceremony featured recurring themes of trinities, which Ferguson noted represent "the three principal stages of life, as well as the components of the mental, physical and spiritual." Throughout the event, prayers were offered, underscoring the spiritual aspect of the proceedings.
Ron Nielsen, grand marshal of the Masons, officially proclaimed the cornerstone "true and trusty," laid in accordance with ancient masonic customs. Adding historical context, Grand Orator Mohan Krishna highlighted the parallel founding of Beatrice and the Grand Lodge of Freemasons in Nebraska in 1857, emphasizing the longstanding connection between the community and the masonic order.
The new Beatrice Elementary School is set to open its doors to pre-kindergarten and elementary students in mid-August, marking a new chapter in the city's commitment to youth education. This ceremony not only celebrated the completion of a modern educational facility but also reinforced the enduring relationship between civic progress and time-honored traditions in Beatrice.
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