Preserving Masonic Traditions in Indiana
Explore our legacy of leadership and community service across the state.
Preserving Masonic Traditions in Indiana
Explore our legacy of leadership and community service across the state.
About MW. St. Mark Grand Lodge AF&AM of the state of Indiana
Our Grand Lodge
The Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of the State of Indiana, Inc. is a sovereign Masonic jurisdiction dedicated to the principles and preservation of Ancient Free and Accepted Masonry. Founded in 1972 and chartered in 1974, we have built a legacy of service, leadership, and Light across the state of Indiana
Live Legacy
August 1, 1972 said M. W. St. Mark Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. For the State of Indiana became a Member of and a participant in The General Grand Masonic Congress of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United States of America and Canada subject to all rules, laws, practices, and customs.
The first home was located in Hammond, Indiana with Brother George W. Harrison as M.W. Grand Master.
In the year, 1974, the charter was transferred to Gary, Indiana with Brother Frank White Sr. elected as M.W. Grand Master and Brother Lorenzo Williams R.W.G.S. Warden. Brother Frank White served faithfully for 9 years and under his leadership a temple was purchased at 610 Massachusetts St. Gary, Indiana and later destroyed by fire. Temporary meetings were then held at 3990 Broadway of Gary.
In June of 1983, Brother Horace Askew was elected M.W. Grand Master and through his vision and leadership, a Temple was purchased and M.W. St. Mark Grand Lodge was then relocated at the present site at 2167 West 9th Avenue Gary, Indiana 46404. Brother Askew served faithfully for 14 years until 1998. Brother Monroe Garth was elected in 1998 and served until death claimed him. His successor was Brother Errol T. Heffner.
In June of 2000, Brother Elijah Judkins was elected as M.W. Grand Master and served faithfully for 11 years.
In June of 2011, Brother Claude M. Chandler was elected as M.W. Grand Master of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. Of the State of Indiana Inc. Served faithfully for 12 years.
In June of 2023, Brother William H. Rhodes III was elected as M.W. Grand Master of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. Of the State of Indiana, as he currently serves in that capacity.
About MW. St. Mark Grand Lodge AF&AM of the state of Indiana
Bio of our Grand Master
William H. Rhodes III, 33°/90°
Most Worshipful Grand Master
Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge, AF&AM of the State of Indiana, Inc.
William H. Rhodes III is a distinguished Masonic leader with over 30 years of dedicated service in the craft. He currently serves as the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge, AF&AM of the State of Indiana, Inc., where he leads with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to Masonic education and community engagement.
Brother Rhodes began his Masonic journey on May 27, 1995, and has since held numerous significant positions within the fraternity, including Treasurer and Past Master of South Gate Lodge No. 5, Past Commander in Chief of St. Mark Consistory No. 1, and Past Potentate Emeritus of Oasis Temple No. 1. His leadership extends nationally, serving as Elect 9 Treasurer for the Universal Supreme Council and as Grand Senior Warden General and Assistant Workshop Dean for the General Grand Masonic Congress of Grandmasters and Past Grand Masters U.S.A.
He is recognized as a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor (KCCH) and a 33rd Degree Sovereign Grand Inspector General. His Masonic career is marked by excellence in governance, mentorship, ritual work, and community service. From charitable initiatives to youth mentorship programs, Brother Rhodes exemplifies the Masonic tenets of brotherly love, relief, and truth.
He is fluent in English, conversational in Spanish, and speaks basic Arabic. Brother Rhodes continues to serve as a beacon of light for all Masons under his jurisdiction and beyond.
📧 Email: mwstgl@gmail.com
📞 Phone: 219-200-4277
Bio of our Deputy Grand Master
D.G.M. Tremell Williamson 33°
Deputy Grand Master
ILL. Tremell D. Williamson 33° began his Masonic journey on February 26, 2005, when he entered the M.W. St. Mark Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. Inc. of the state of Indiana as an Entered Apprentice under South Gate Lodge #5. Raised on April 23, 2005, alongside his two blood brothers, Tremell's dedication to the Craft has been unwavering since.
A lifelong resident of Gary, Indiana, Tremell Williamson is 42 years old and has been serving the community as a member of the Gary Police Department for the past 15 years. He has been married to his lovely wife Tia for 12 years, and together they have four beautiful children.
Tremell's Masonic career has seen him hold various esteemed positions within his lodge. He has served as Junior Stuart, Junior Warden, Senior Warden, and Worshipful Master, a position he held for five years. He continues to be an active and respected Past Master of South Gate Lodge #5. Tremell is dedicated to imparting as much Masonic teaching, knowledge, and understanding as possible to his brethren.
In addition to his Blue Lodge responsibilities, Tremell is an active member of several other Masonic bodies, including the Royal Arch, Cryptic Council, Knights Templar, Consistory, and Shrine. He has held multiple leadership roles in these organizations and currently serves as Commander in Chief of St. Mark Consistory #1 and Past Potentate of Oasis Temple #1, and Thrice Illustrious Master presently.
Tremell embodies the essence of Freemasonry, a brotherhood that transcends simple definitions. As he articulates, "Our Masonic ancestors had an understanding of human needs and human aspirations. They understood human nature and what motivates the spirit of man." Through his commitment to the principles of Freemasonry, Tremell Williamson contributes to the building of character, unity, and understanding within the fraternity.
Tremell's life and work within Freemasonry exemplify the profound and timeless principles of "the brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God," reflecting the highest ideals of the Craft.
About Oriental Grand Chapter, OES of the state of Indiana
Oriental Grand Chapter, OES
Sandra Baez
Worthy Grand Matron
Born of Puerto Rican descent and raised in Michigan in a Masonic home, my journey of dedication began when I joined the Oriental Grand Chapter, OES, Palmyra Chapter No. 1 under the MW St. Mark Grand Lodge AF&AM State of Indiana, Inc.
I am a grateful and proud mother and grandmother of two, and a proud Indiana University graduate. My affiliations extend to a Divine Nine fraternal organization. With over 30 years of successful management in the mortgage financial sector, my passion has always been in helping others. I take great pride in hosting and supporting multiple charity events, fundraisers, and community events, including forming and supervising our very own Fields of Morals youth program.
My journey has been both wonderful and fulfilling, culminating in my acceptance of the grand seat to the East as Worthy Grand Matron of Oriental Grand Chapter OES, Indiana. I continue to serve selflessly, leading while assisting the Grand Chapter and subordinate chapters in upholding the sacred roles, obligations, and regulations of our Order. My focus remains on providing the needed guidance, knowledge, and mentorship essential for fostering Fidelity in sisterhood and our fraternal family.
I strive to elevate my sisters and brothers and continue to dedicate myself to charity, true love, and kindness.
Fraternally Yours,
Worthy Grand Matron
Oriental Grand Chapter, OES
Theresa Thomason
Grand Matron
Sister Theresa Thomason has been an esteemed member of the Eastern Star since approximately 1990. She began her Masonic journey as a member of Martha Chapter #2, where she diligently served as secretary and was assigned to several star points under the leadership of Worthy Matron Frankie Mask.
Throughout her distinguished career, Sister Thomason held the prestigious position of Worthy Matron in both Palmyra Chapter #1 and Esther Chapter #4. She further demonstrated her leadership capabilities when she served as Associate Grand Matron to Grand Matron Carolyn King in 2008.
In June 2010, Sister Thomason ascended to the role of Grand Matron, a position she held with distinction until April 2024. During her tenure, she provided invaluable assistance to the Matron and Patron Council under the leadership of PGM Carolyn King. Additionally, she served on the Activity Committee, where she played a crucial role in planning annual banquets.
Her Masonic affiliations extend beyond the Eastern Star. She is a member of the Royal and Exalted Degree of the Amaranth, Dorcas Court #1, where she served as Secretary. She was also a member of the Heroines of Jericho, Geneva Court #1, and the Lady Knights Templar, Vesti Council, where she held the position of Secretary. Furthermore, Sister Thomason is a dedicated member of the Daughter of Sphinx and Royal Lady.
Sister Thomason held the role of Supreme Financial Secretary of the Heroines of Jericho from 2012 to 2019. In 2022, she was appointed as the Chairman of the Supreme Board of Trustees, a position she holds to this day. She also contributed to the committee responsible for updating the Eastern Star Leadership Manual.
Her educational background is equally impressive, with an Associate’s degree in Medical Records from Indiana University Northwest (IUN), a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Calumet College, and a Master of Science degree from National Louis University.
Sister Theresa Thomason’s unwavering commitment, leadership, and dedication have significantly enriched the Order and it community, earning her the respect and admiration of her peers.
Oriental Grand Chapter, OES
Sis. Carolyn R. King,
Grand Matron
My Journey Began: 1989
My first encounter with the Order of the Eastern Star was through Brother Otis Mead, who approached me to apply to his local chapter, Palmyra Chapter #1. Eager to join and learn, I quickly rose to various positions within the local chapter, including Worthy Matron.
Accomplishments:
• Organized the Annual Musical held on the 3rd Sunday in March.
• Earned the Chapter of the Year Plaque.
• Celebrated a chapter member winning the Queen of the 5 Point Tea Contest.
• Organized New Member Folders for incoming members.
• Elevated to Grand Matron and represented the Grand Chapter at various events.
• Chaired and participated in multiple committees and events at both local and Grand Chapter levels.
• Advanced within the higher degrees of the organization, including Queen of the South and Royal and Exalted Degree of Amaranth.
I am grateful for the guidance and support of my sisters in the Oriental Grand Chapter, which has allowed me to be a guiding light to all I meet.
Fraternally Yours,
Sis. Carolyn R. King, Grand Matron
Children of Sarah Grand Chapter
Atlanta, Georgia
ABOUT our Most Worshipful Past Grand Master of the State
Past Grand Master
Ill. Claude M. Chandler 33° Past Grand Master
I was born in Giotto, West Virginia
on Aug 9, 1947 and was the
youngest of eight children. I
attended Princeton High School,
in Princeton, West Virginia. After
graduating I entered the U.S.
Army where I spent a year in
Vietnam. After being honorably
discharged I came to Gary,
Indiana. I worked briefly at
Bethlehem Steel than I began my
career working for the U.S. Postal
Service where I retired with 37
years of service. I attended
Indiana University Northwest
where I earned a Bachelor’s
degree in Public and Environmental Affairs. I am married and the
grandfather of eight grandchildren and two great grand children. I am a
member of the Bethlehem A.M.E. Zion Church where I serve as Chairperson
of the Trustee Board and Church Treasurer. My Masonic career begins in 1994
and has been an enjoyable journey. I was initiated, passed, and raised in
South Gate Lodge #5 where I held offices of Jr. Warden, Sr. Warden,
Worshipful Master, Secretary and presently Secretary. I am a member of
Jacob Chapter of Royal Arch Masons where I hold the office of King and
have held Scribe. As a Sir Knight in St. Anthony Commandery #1 and now as Past Grand Master and Trustee of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge AF&AM of the state of Indiana Inc.; Deputy of state of the Consistory and Command In
Chief, Past Potentate of the Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine Oasis
Temple. To GOD be the Glory!
Past Grand Master
Ill. Elijah Judkins 33°
Past Grand Master
Past Grand Master Elijah Judkins was born on February 11, 1941, in Montgomery, Alabama. He began his spiritual journey as a member of Pine Grove Baptist Church and is currently a member of Clark Road Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana.
Elijah Judkins entered the realm of Freemasonry in September 1968, affiliating with MW St. John Grand Lodge in Gary, Indiana, under the leadership of Most Worshipful Frank White Sr. During his tenure at MW St. John, he served in several key positions, including Secretary, Worshipful Master, Imminent Commander Knights Templar, and Potentate.
In 1974, Judkins became a member of MW St. Mark Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. in Gary, Indiana. He demonstrated exceptional leadership as Worshipful Master of King Hiriam Lodge #4, a position he held for an impressive ten years. That same year, he founded King Hiriam Lodge #4, cementing his legacy within the Masonic community.
In 2000, Elijah Judkins was elected Most Worshipful Grand Master of MW St. Mark Grand Lodge, a role in which he served with distinction for 11 years. During his tenure, he was instrumental in initiating MW St. Mark Grand Lodge’s Annual Banquet, held every February. His commitment to philanthropy led to significant donations to various charities, including the Juvenile Diabetes Association, multiple shelters, and providing Thanksgiving dinners to the needy.
Beyond his contributions as Grand Master, Judkins also served as Potentate of Oasis Temple, further showcasing his dedication to the principles and charitable endeavors of Freemasonry.
Most Worshipful Grand Master Elijah Judkins’ enduring contributions to Freemasonry and his steadfast commitment to charity and community service have left an indelible mark on the fraternity, earning him the respect and admiration of Masons and community members alike.
Past Grand Master
GM. George W. Harrison
1972-1974
GM. Frank White 33°
1974-1983
GM. Horace Askew 33°
1983-1998
GM. Monroe Garth 33°
1997-1999
(Photo Here)
Past Grand Master
THE WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER HORACE B. ASKEW 33°:
WAS BORN ON SEPTEMBER 7, 1941 IN PADUCAH, KENTUCKY, THE THIRD OLDEST OF SIXTEEN CHILDREN BORN TO HORACE AND LEXIE M. ASKEW.
I ATTENDED LINCOLN ELEMENTARY AND GRADUATED FROM LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL IN PADUCAH, KENTUCKY MAY 29, 1959.
ENLISTED AND HONORABLY SERVED IN THE UNITED STATES NAVY FROM JUNE
1959 THRU AUGUST 1962. WHEREBY I HAD A CHANCE TO TRAVEL OVER EUROPE, NORTH AFRICA AND THE CARIBBEAN.
I RELOCATED TO GARY, INDIANA SEPTEMBER 1964 AND WENT TO WORK AT
J. AND L STEEL FORMERLY CALLED YOUNGSTOWN SHEET AND TUBE COMPANY WHERE I WORKED FOR FIVE YEARS. AFTER LEAVING YOUNGSTOWN I WORKED FOR SIMMONS COMPANY, U.S. STEEL TIN MILL AND THE CITY OF GARY.
WHILE EMPLOYED BY THE CITY OF GARY I ATTENDED INDIANA UNIVERSITY NORTH- WEST AS A FULL TIME STUDENT FOR THREE SEMESTERS, OCCASIONALLY I ENROLLED IN CLASSES FOR LABOR STUDIES.
I AM CURRENTLY EMPLOYED BY THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE, WHERE I HAVE BEEN EMPLOYED FOR THE PAST EIGHTEEN YEARS, AS A LETTER CARRIER.
SERVING THE SAME ROUTE FOR THIRTEEN AND ONE HALF YEARS.
I WAS UNITED IN MARRIAGE TO THE FORMER JOSEPHINE BALL IN DECEMBER
1968. WE WILL CELEBRATE OUR TWENTY-FIFTH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY DECEMBER 1993. TO THIS UNION WAS BORN FOUR CHILDREN NICOLE 22, COREY 21, ANTIONE 13, AND CRYSTAL 11.
I PETITIONED TO KING HIRAM LODGE #4 IN 1976 AND WAS RAISED IN JULY
1976 SHORTLY AFTER I WAS APPOINTED JUNIOR WARDEN OF THE LODGE.
LATER I WAS APPOINTED BY M.W. FRANK WHITE SR.G.M. AS WORSHIPFUL MASTER OF KING HIRAM LODGE #4.I HAVE BEEN ELECTED TO FIVE SUCCESSFUL TERMS AS WORSHFUL MASTER. UNDER MY STEWARDSHIP WE ATTAINED A MEMBERSHIP OF THIRTY-FIVE MASTER MASONS. TO THIS DAY NO LODGE IN THIS GRAND LODGE HAS REACHED THIS MEMBERSHIP.
I HELD OFFICE IN OTHER MASONIC HOUSES, AS POTENTATE OF OASIS TEMPLE FOR FIVE YEARS. FIRST COMMANDER OF ST. MARK CONSISTORY. SECRETARY OF ST. MARK CONSISTORY AND SECRETARY OF JACOB CHAPTER R.A.M.. I AM PRESENTLY DEPUTY OF STATE OF ST. ANTHONY COMMANDERY NO. 1 KNIGHTS TEMPLAR.
IN MOST WORSHIP FUL ST. MARK GRAND LODGE A.F. AND A.M. OF GARY, INDIANA INC. I HAVE SERVED AS ASSOCIATE GRAND PATRON, SENIOR GRAND DEACON, GRAND TREASURER. GRAND SECRETARY, JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN, DEPUTY GRAND MASTER AND MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER FOR THE PAST TEN YEARS.
Past Grand Master
GM. George W. Harrison
1972-1974
GM. Frank White 33°
1974-1983
(Photo Here)
GM. Horace Askew 33°
1983-1998
GM. Monroe Garth 33°
1997-1999
Meet the pillar of service and distinction.
Past Master
ILL. Terrell Triggs, 33°
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
ILL. Terrell Triggs, 33° is a distinguished member of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge AF&AM of the State of Indiana, Inc. With a Masonic journey defined by exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to Freemasonry's core values, ILL. Triggs continues to inspire and impact the Masonic community.
Masonic Leadership and Contributions
ILL. Terrell Triggs’ leadership journey within the fraternity includes his service as Worshipful Master of King Hiram Lodge No. 4. Under his guidance, the lodge experienced growth, increased membership, and enhanced community involvement. His leadership style combined a deep respect for Masonic traditions with an inclusive approach to nurturing brotherhood and fellowship. Through his mentorship and vision, King Hiram Lodge No. 4 strengthened its reputation as a center of Masonic excellence.
Eminent Commander and Distinguished Positions
In addition to his service as Worshipful Master, ILL. Triggs also served as Eminent Commander of St. Anthony Commandery No. 1. As a Knight Templar, his leadership exemplified the virtues of honor, chivalry, and dedication. His commitment to the principles of the Commandery inspired many brothers to follow in his footsteps. ILL. Triggs has held various other distinguished seats within the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership.
Mentorship and Education
A passionate advocate for Masonic education, ILL. Triggs has focused much of his energy on educating brothers, especially in ritual work and leadership development. His mentorship has guided many brothers on their Masonic journeys, helping them to embrace and uphold the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. His work in advancing Masonic education within the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful St. Mark Grand Lodge has left a lasting impact on the future of the fraternity.
Community Impact
ILL. Triggs has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community service. His active participation in charitable endeavors and community outreach projects highlights the true spirit of Freemasonry. By giving back to his community, ILL. Triggs has helped improve the lives of many, reinforcing the Masonic ideals of charity, integrity, and service.
Continuing Legacy
The legacy of ILL. Terrell Triggs is one of selfless service, leadership, and dedication to the Masonic principles. His contributions to King Hiram Lodge No. 4, St. Anthony Commandery No. 1, and the broader Masonic community continue to inspire future generations of Masons to live with purpose, uphold the values of charity, and lead with integrity.
