Spring 2025 Issue Out Now: 175 Years
Raffi Bedrossian of San Marino № 408 had just returned home on January 7 when his life changed. As he, his wife, and their daughter landed in Altadena, his phone lit up with warnings about the fast-moving Eaton Fire. Within hours, his home was gone, every possession of theirs left in ruins.
When Bedrossian was finally able to return to his home, there was nothing left except one thing. Under the rubble, he found a Masonic stone ashlar, given to him several years ago by Past Grand Master David Perry. Now, two months later, Bedrossian counts himself as one of the lucky ones. His family is safe. They’re getting ready to leave the hotel they’ve been staying in and move into a new apartment. His world has changed dramatically, but in time he’ll rebuild it.
In this issue of California Freemason, we’re celebrating 175 years of incredible Masonic history in this state. And what that history shows us is that moments like these are when our fraternity is at its best. When disaster strikes, Masons have always been there to help. That is the real legacy of California Masonry. We’ve been heartened to hear stories of our members and lodges reaching out to people throughout L.A. to offer money, supplies, or a place to stay. This is, after all, what we do. It’s what we’ve done for 175 years, and it’s what we’ll always do.