Johnson City Unity Lodge 970

07/15/2026

Thank You, W. Steven Kocich and District Deputy Grand Master, Tim Hill!

The Masonic Medical Research Institute extends its heartfelt appreciation to W. Steven Kocich and R.W. Tim Hill, District Deputy Grand Master, for their outstanding leadership in rallying the Southern Tier Masonic community in support of MMRI's mission.

Through their dedication and commitment, the Southern Tier secured more than five 3-5-7 donations, including generous support from Tri-Town Lodge No. 472, Deposit Lodge No. 396, Windsor Lodge No. 442, Johnson City Unity Lodge 970, and St. Mark's Vestal Lodge No. 435. During St. John's Weekend, these gifts were proudly presented to Most Worshipful Grand Master Robert L. Hogan, Jr. and Maria I. Kontaridis, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Masonic Medical Research Institute.

We also offer special recognition to W. Steven Kocich for his creativity and generosity in organizing a one-of-a-kind fireplace raffle to benefit MMRI. His innovative fundraising effort exemplifies the spirit of service and community that drives our mission forward.

Because of leaders like Steve and Tim, MMRI scientists can continue pursuing groundbreaking research in autism, cardiovascular disease, lupus, Long COVID, PTSD, congenital heart disease, and many other areas of human health.

Thank you for your leadership, your generosity, and your unwavering commitment to helping make the next medical cure possible.

07/01/2026

🔥 MMRI Fire Pit Raffle Winner Announced! 🔥

During St. John’s Weekend in Utica, Johnson City Unity Lodge 970 held a raffle for this beautiful handcrafted fire pit to benefit the Masonic Medical Research Institute - MMRI.

Congratulations to Anthony Aquino Catajan, the lucky winner!

This stunning fire pit was designed and fabricated by Brother Matt Johnson of Diamond J Metal Works. Brother Matt generously donated his time, talent, and craftsmanship to make this fundraiser possible, and we are incredibly grateful for his support.

Thanks to the generosity of everyone who purchased raffle tickets, we raised $1,300 for MMRI. These funds will help support the Institute’s groundbreaking medical research and its mission of improving lives through scientific discovery.

As an MMRI Ambassador, I’m especially proud of what our lodge and the Masonic community accomplished together. This fundraiser is another example of the power of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth in action.

Congratulations again to Anthony, and thank you to everyone who supported this worthwhile cause. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Brother Matthew Johnson and Diamond J Metal Works for making this raffle such a success.

Together, we turned craftsmanship into charity and made a meaningful contribution to MMRI.

W. Steven Kocich

05/29/2026

Congratulations to this years Mason of the year!!!!! Matthew Johnson!

04/01/2026

The first fire pit is doing so well we added another, to help celebrate 250 years of the United Stares!!!!

03/20/2026

Message for details!!!!!

03/18/2026

Congratulations to are newly passed fellowcrafts.

03/03/2026

If you’d like any information on how you can help support the work done at MMRI. Please reach out and we will put you in contact with someone who can help.

11/27/2025