R.W. Grand Secretaries Exchange Roles
Pictured: Deputy Grand Secretary Mark A. Haines and his wife, Karen
Reflecting on a Legacy of Service
Brother Mark A. Haines has spent two decades serving the Craft as R.W. Grand Secretary with distinction, humility and unwavering devotion to the timeless principles of brotherhood, charity and integrity.
Mark has been a steadfast guardian of Masonic tradition and an innovator committed to ensuring the fraternity’s continued relevance in a rapidly changing world. From managing the administrative functions of the Grand Lodge — maintaining vital records, coordinating communication among lodges and upholding Masonic law — to offering mentorship and guidance to countless brethren, his influence has been a true testament to a life lived in the light of the Craft.
Behind every decision and initiative was a simple guiding belief: “It’s all about relationships,” Mark reflects. “The bonds we form, how we treat each other and how we get along — that’s what matters most.”
Mark’s tenure has been marked by his outreach and connection with Masons across the Commonwealth, the nation and the world. His travels provided opportunities to exchange ideas, share traditions and strengthen the ties that unite Freemasons everywhere.
Those who have worked alongside him speak of his calm leadership, deep respect for Masonic history and ability to balance tradition with progress.
“I’m humbled and honored by the opportunity to serve the Grand Lodge and work with so many wonderful people,” Mark says. “I wish to thank the members and officers for supporting me in my efforts and helping me to learn and grow in my role. I’d like my legacy to be that I gave my all and did my best to live a life that exemplified Freemasonry.”
As he prepares to pass the torch, Mark expresses full confidence in his successor: “I look forward to helping Brother Pete [Kraus] succeed; he will take us to the next level, especially in terms of technology.”
Mark was installed as R.W. Grand Secretary on Dec. 27, 2005. He is a Past Master of Reading Lodge No. 549 and a dual member of Teutonia Lodge No. 367, West Reading, and a Past District Deputy Grand Master for the 7th Masonic District. He is a recipient of the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal and the DeMolay Legion of Honor.
“The contributions of Brother Mark, whose 20 years of faithful administration and wise counsel have ensured the smooth operation of our Grand Lodge, cannot be overstated. He has been counselor, conciliator, arbitrator and confessor to many Grand Lodge officers, District Deputy Grand Masters, lodge officers and members. We are fortunate that he will be staying on as a Deputy Grand Secretary to ensure a smooth transition to our new Grand Secretary, Brother Peter Kraus. Thank you, Brother Mark, and welcome, Brother Peter!”
-R.W. Grand Master Robert D. Brink
Welcoming New Leadership
Brother Peter M. Kraus looks forward to the opportunity to serve the Craft in his new role.
“I’m deeply grateful to the Grand Lodge officers and to all the brethren throughout Pennsylvania for their confidence in electing me to serve as R.W. Grand Secretary,” Brother Pete said.
“My greatest joy and refuge is time spent with my wife, Pauline (of 33 years), and family, the real source of my strength and inspiration. Growing up the youngest of nine children, family is at the core of who I am, and I’ve always felt that Freemasonry is a natural extension of that bond.
“I’d like to thank my mentor and predecessor, Brother Mark A. Haines, R.W. Past Grand Secretary, for his friendship and trust, which I will always value and strive to honor. And to Brother Richard N. Fitzsimmons, Past District Deputy Grand Master of District 24 – thank you for seeing something in me so many years ago. I hope to make you proud.”
Pete & Pauline Kraus Portrait
R.W. Grand Secretary Peter M. Kraus and his wife, Pauline
