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Deputy Grand Master Joell H. Lales
Deputy Grand Master Joell H. Lales
Past Master - Bathala Lodge No. 1 I Masonic Name: Matimpiin
Leadership, Perseverance, and the Strength of Brotherhood
The history of a Lodge is shaped by men who accept responsibility during times of both stability and uncertainty. For Right Worshipful Hermano Joell H. Lales, known in the Craft as Matimpiin, his Masonic journey has been marked by leadership, perseverance, and a commitment to the continued growth of Bathala Lodge No. 1 and the wider Soberana Masonic family.
Serving as Worshipful Master of Bathala in 2022, Hermano Joell assumed the responsibilities of the East during a period of rebuilding following the pandemic and amid a broader transition within Soberana. His experience required more than the fulfillment of traditional duties. It called for determination, sound judgment, and a shared commitment to rebuilding the foundations of the Lodge for the generations that would follow.
Today, as Deputy Grand Master of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Philippine Archipelago, his journey reflects the continuing responsibilities of Masonic leadership and service.
A Vision for a Stronger Lodge
A Vision for a Stronger Lodge
Becoming Worshipful Master had long been an aspiration for Hermano Joell. The opportunity became especially meaningful because he served alongside brethren who shared a common purpose: to build a stronger future for Bathala during a challenging period of transition.
The work involved restoring consistency in the Lodge's activities and bringing together the remaining foundations and legacies entrusted to a new generation of Soberana brethren. It was a period that demanded patience, cooperation, and a clear understanding that the future of the Lodge depended on collective effort.
Leading Through Challenges
Leading Through Challenges
Hermano Joell's term brought both internal and external challenges. Internally, the Lodge faced the demanding work of rebuilding and maintaining regularity in its Masonic labors. Externally, the growth of Soberana brought increased attention and pressure, which he recalled as difficult experiences for some brethren.
Despite these challenges, he remained firm in his belief that Soberana's history and roots formed an important part of the nation's Masonic heritage. He emphasized that Philippine Freemasonry should be understood within the perspective of a broader Filipino Masonic family, rather than simply as competition between jurisdictions.
His reflections illustrate a central lesson of leadership: progress requires conviction, but it must also be guided by perspective, patience, and commitment to the principles one serves.
Upholding Standards and Responsibility
Upholding Standards and Responsibility
One of the most difficult experiences during his term involved maintaining the Lodge's requirements when a Brother was not permitted to advance because the necessary requirements had not been met.
For Hermano Joell, the experience reinforced the importance of consistency and accountability. Leadership sometimes requires decisions that may be unpopular, but the responsibility of the office demands that standards be upheld fairly and responsibly.
The lesson extended beyond a single decision. It reflected the weight of the gavel and the obligation to safeguard the integrity of the Lodge.Ritual Proficiency and the Value of Fellowship
The lesson extended beyond a single decision. It reflected the weight of the gavel and the obligation to safeguard the integrity of the Lodge.Ritual Proficiency and the Value of Fellowship
Among his priorities as Worshipful Master was improving the brethren's familiarity with ritual work and floorwork, with the aim of developing greater proficiency throughout the Lodge.
He also placed importance on fellowship after labor. Sharing refreshments and spending time together were, in his view, meaningful extensions of Lodge activities. These moments allowed brethren to know one another more closely and strengthen the relationships that sustain a Lodge beyond its formal proceedings.
His experience reminds us that a strong Lodge requires both proficiency in its work and genuine bonds among its members.
The Importance of Mentorship
The Importance of Mentorship
Hermano Joell acknowledged the important role that other brethren played in his Masonic development.
He identified Hermano Charles Amoroso as his first mentor in the Craft—a trusted source of advice and support who helped him navigate decisions and continue his Masonic journey within Soberana.
He also expressed gratitude to Most Worshipful Hermano Cesar Ramil S. Margate, the current Grand Master, for recognizing his leadership potential, supporting his service as Worshipful Master of Bathala, and continuing to provide guidance.
Their influence highlights the value of mentorship in Freemasonry: a Brother's growth is strengthened not only by personal effort, but also by the encouragement, counsel, and example of others.
The Sacrifices Behind the Gavel
The Sacrifices Behind the Gavel
Masonic service often requires time and attention beyond scheduled meetings. Hermano Joell reflected on the personal sacrifices involved, particularly the time taken away from family and other responsibilities when additional activities and meetings required his presence.
Yet he also recognized the value of the lessons gained through the Craft and the importance of applying them to everyday life—in the family, at work, and in one's dealings with others.
For him, Masonic responsibilities are most meaningful when their lessons extend beyond the Lodge itself.
His Advice to Future Leaders
His Advice to Future Leaders
When asked what advice he would give himself at the beginning of his journey, Hermano Joell offered a concise reminder:
“Love the Craft. Know your place in the Lodge.”
His message emphasizes that Freemasonry is not about individual recognition. It is about contributing to something greater than oneself and helping the Lodge remain a living institution that can endure beyond the tenure of any one Mason.
His advice to future Worshipful Masters carries the same principle. The gavel is not simply a symbol of authority; it represents responsibility and accountability. Those who accept it must safeguard the welfare of the brethren, exercise balanced judgment, lead by example, and remain committed to learning.
A Legacy of Brotherhood
A Legacy of Brotherhood
Looking back on his administration, Hermano Joell remembers the camaraderie among the brethren and the fellowship they shared. He considers these bonds one of the strong foundations of a Lodge: brethren who know one another, understand one another, and maintain relationships beyond formal meetings.
His reflections offer a reminder that the strength of a Lodge cannot be measured by ceremonies and accomplishments alone. It is also found in the trust, fellowship, and shared purpose that unite its members.
From his service as Worshipful Master of Bathala Lodge No. 1 in 2022 to his present role as Deputy Grand Master, Hermano Joell's Masonic journey continues to form part of the wider story of Soberana and the brethren who work to preserve its traditions.
The office may change, and the gavel may pass to another hand, but the responsibility to uphold the Craft and strengthen brotherhood remains.
This biography is part of “THE MEN WHO HELPED SHAPE BATHALA,” a continuing series by the Bathala Lodge No. 1 Historical Archive dedicated to preserving the lives, service, and Masonic journeys of the brethren who have helped shape the Lodge's history.
Preserving Our Brethren, Our History, Our Legacy.
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