At the Massachusetts Grand York Rite Annual Convention held in Mansfield, MA on the weekend of October 25, 2025, Wor. Keith J. Zibolis of Saggahew Lodge in Haverhill was presented with the Grand Encampment Knight Templar Cross of Honor. This distinction, the highest conferred in Commandery, recognizes exceptional and meritorious service rendered far beyond the call of duty and the expectations of an officer or member.

The York Rite is a branch of Freemasonry which is comprised of three separate bodies, Royal Arch Masonry, Councils of Royal & Select Master Masons and Knights Templar. Zibolis has served in several capacities in the York Rite bodies, including High Priest, Pentucker Royal Arch Chapter; District Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts; Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts; Illustrious Master, Haverhill Council of Royal & Select Master Masons; Eminent Commandery, Newburyport Commandery No. 3; Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Massachusetts & Rhode Island. 

Each jurisdiction may nominate only one recipient per year, and the award is not always bestowed. The recommendation is approved by the Grand Commander of the state, with final approval granted by the Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America. When asked about the award, Zibolis commented, “I’m humbled to have been recognized with this honor. I never in my life expected this, and it really hasn’t sunk in yet. I’m grateful to all those involved in recommending me for this award.”

Above: Wor. Keith Zibolis of Saggahew Lodge, a member of all three York Rite bodies in Haverhill is presented the Grand Encampment Knight Templar Cross of Honor at the Massachusetts Grand York Rite Annual Convention. Pictured here (L to R) Keith Zibolis; Right Eminent Sir Knight Kenneth Caldwell, Northeastern Department Commandery, and Right Eminent Sir Knight Stephen Whitmore, Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.