Thanksgiving Senior Outreach

On Thursday, November 20, 2025, members of Unity Lodge No. 146 once again visited the Warren County Senior Center—this month joined by a special guest from our Masonic family. The Senior Deacon and Junior Warden were accompanied by the Worthy Matron of Front Royal Chapter No. 6, Order of the Eastern Star, for a lively and joy-filled afternoon with our county’s seniors.

What greeted us upon arrival was nothing short of uplifting. The Senior Center was bustling—more active than we’ve seen in months. Seniors were walking freely between the dining area and craft room, taking part in wreath-making and creating small Christmas trees adorned with lights. Live music added to the warmth, and the energy throughout the building had a renewed lightness.

This change was especially meaningful because the Senior Center floor repairs were completed just one week earlier. For several months, taped-off sections, uneven surfaces, and restricted movement had created challenges for both staff and seniors. Between September and October, our Senior Deacon made three public appearances before the Warren County Board of Supervisors—the body that owns the building—to advocate for expediting the repairs. Seeing the restored floor in full use brought a sense of relief and gratitude shared by everyone present.

A few seniors took the time to thank the Masons personally for being attentive to their safety and well-being. Their appreciation meant a great deal, and it reminded us why this monthly outreach remains a cherished part of our Lodge calendar.

A Thanksgiving Meal Shared With Friends

Typically, our Lodge serves between 20–25 seniors at these monthly visits. This time, the turnout grew significantly—we served 34 participants, not including several familiar faces who were absent that day. The increase reflected the renewed mobility and high spirits throughout the center.

The Junior Warden prepared smoked turkey as part of the Thanksgiving meal, and the full menu was a feast:
Turkey, gravy, stuffing, macaroni and cheese, green beans, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls.
Desserts followed—a tray of treats featuring pumpkin pie, lemon meringue pie, and a special surprise: Pumpkin Fudge.

During lunch, staff asked everyone to share what they were thankful for. Responses were heartfelt—gratitude for the Lord, for family both by blood and by choice, for friends, good health, restored mobility, and the Senior Center itself.

The Worthy Matron shared her appreciation for the Senior Center, the Order of the Eastern Star, and the two Masons accompanying her. The Senior Deacon expressed thankfulness for the Senior Center, the repaired floor, the fun atmosphere, and the joy the seniors continue to bring.

A Note About the Next Day

Before leaving, the Worthy Matron shared that she would be returning to the Senior Center the next day to take part in their themed Sock Hop event. She encouraged the Masons to join her; however, both officers had previously scheduled commitments and regrettably were unable to attend. Even so, her enthusiasm was infectious, and we look forward to catching a future special event together.

After the Visit: A Message of Thanks to County Leaders

After the event, the Senior Deacon sent a detailed message to the Warren County Board of Supervisors and the County Administrator expressing appreciation for the repairs and describing the positive changes observed since the work was completed. He also invited each Supervisor to visit the Senior Center in person and to join us for our monthly “Last Saturday Breakfast,” held from 7–9 AM at the Lodge.

Returning in December – All Brethren and Eastern Star Members Welcome

Unity Lodge No. 146 and Front Royal Chapter No. 6 will return to the Senior Center on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
All brethren and OES members are invited to attend and share fellowship with the seniors.

For those who haven’t joined us before, these gatherings are always warm and lively. We help serve lunch, call out bingo cards, read trivia, share fun facts, and spend our time moving from table to table visiting with seniors who truly appreciate the company. It is a simple act of kindness that brings genuine joy.

The Senior Center’s programs—including activities, transportation, nutritional support, and daily meals—are provided through Seniors First, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping older adults live independently at home.

We are grateful for every opportunity to support our seniors, uplift their spirits, and strengthen the bonds of community that Freemasonry holds dear.


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