Message from the DDGM

To the Members of the 19th East District,

 It is hard to believe that the oldest son of a Pastor and a Nurse from a small grain town in South Dakota would have the opportunity to represent our Grand Master. It is amazing how my parents, after they were first married, moved from their families in New England to a community in which they did not know a soul. The stories of them being welcomed and them fostering relationships continue to inspire me. I do not accept this appointment as District Deputy lightly. The values and sense of community are something I learned at a young age and have come to value deeply.

Our Craft fervently kindle friendships that have been made and those still to be made.

When we first began our journey by making a demand in our respective lodges, we were greeted by a stranger who we would soon come to find was our conductor in whom we could trust. This example of mentorship has been a hallmark in our Masonic journey, but I also see the powerful example it can provide in all our transactions. I certainly have valued the many mentors in my life that have and continue to shape me.

The lodges in our district are full of activities for the coming year and foster this sense of community such as a Table Lodge, Indoor Golf, Friday night socials, post-holiday gatherings, Men’s health groups, and an invigorating dip into the Atlantic to name a few. I will do my best to attend as many activities and events as I can-I certainly look forward to greeting each of you. My first activity will be the Polar Plunge on January 1st at Fort Phoenix at 10 a.m. and then attend a hearty breakfast back at George H. Taber Lodge. Perhaps you would like to attend?

As you may be aware, District Deputies need to first have a fraternal visit to their mother lodge before visiting other lodges in their District. As such, my first visit will be to Star in the East Lodge on February 3, 2026. There will be a dinner prior to the fraternal and I look for it to be a semi-public event. Reservations may be made HERE

It is amazing when I think of my past and present family, friends and mentors in my life. I want to thank all my family, friends and mentors that have shaped me with the values and sense of community that contributed to make me the man I am today. We are all so much better when we surround ourselves with those who inspire and care for us. The District Resource Team stands ready to be supportive and helpful. I hope each of you reading this message will reflect on those who have cared for you and have inspired you in your life. Let each of us be examples of inspiration to others.

I look forward to our time together in bringing light to our District and beyond.

Warm fraternal regards,

R.W. Peter W. Ham

District Deputy 19 East District

• R.W. Peter Webster Ham - District Deputy Grand Master 
• Bro. Ian M. Harcourt - District Deputy Grand Marshal 
• Wor. Dylan W. Arsenault - District Deputy Grand Secretary 
• Bro. Jeremy A. Lavendier - District Deputy Grand Treasurer 
• Wor N Douglas Schneider - District Co-Treasurer
• Wor. Keith L. Amorin - District Ambassador 
• Wor. Mark E. White - District Service Officer 
• Bro. Bradford F. Anselmo - District Youth Officer 
• Bro. Bradford J. Fish - District Veterans Officer 
• Wor. Norman R. Duchesneau - District First Responder 
• R.W. Joshua D. Bumpus - District Webmaster 
• Bro. Ian M. Harcourt - District Information Officer 
• Bro. William N. Travers - Assistant District Information Officer 
• R.W. Joshua D. Bumpus - District Rejuvenation Officer 
• Bro. Kristian V. Berg - District Photographer 
• Wor. Michael  Cordeiro - Lodge of Instruction Coordinator 
• Wor. Donald F. Valenti, Jr. - District Chaplain