by Audrey Anderson
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Rabboni Masonic Lodge of Westwood held a Checkmate Chronicles event for players of all skill levels to learn how to play the historic game of chess and to enjoy playing matches.
To begin the morning event, the players learned or reviewed the history and rules of chess, the names of the pieces and how they move on the board, and a few pointers on strategy.
Then players found opponents and played matches to use the skills learned or reviewed. There was some head-scratching and deep thinking as players planned their moves and strategies. Cookies and pastries were provided to boost the players’ energy levels and stamina.
According to Rich Ryder, the Masons believe it is important to give back to their communities, as evidenced by the Rabboni Lodge’s regular blood drives, work with Toys for Tots and Habitat for Humanity, and other charity initiatives. The Rabboni Lodge held the Checkmate Chronicles event to provide an opportunity for people to gather socially and interact face-to-face without everyday distractions, especially electronic ones. Given that the game of chess is finding renewed interest lately, the lodge thought it would be a great way to invite the community into their building while sharing the benefits of playing the game of chess. They believe that chess teaches discipline, patience, critical thinking, planning, and concentration, all of which are needed in society.
The Rabboni Lodge hopes to hold other chess events in the future, including events for new players of all ages and tournaments for experienced players.
Freemasonry dates to the stonemason guilds that built Europe’s cathedrals and castles. Organized in Massachusetts in 1733, it has been an integral part of our nation’s history. Men like Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and John Glenn were among many famous men who joined the organization before achieving individual greatness.
To find out more about Freemasonry or future chess events, email the Rabboni Lodge at [email protected].
