At the time of this interview, Bro. Darryl Carter was the Junior Deacon of the Lodge.

When did you join Masonry?

I was initiated an Entered Apprentice in 2005. 

What first attracted you to BBF?

About 10 years ago I was very interested in Masonry and made some inquiries in Maryland (where I reside), which were responded to lukewarmly at best. So frankly, I got the message, and lost interest. I actually visited BBF for the first time to hear a Russian Orthodox priest present a paper on the classic of Christian mysticism, The Cloud of Unknowing. The presentation was excellent, but the ensuing discussion was absolutely brilliant. After the meeting we retired to the Blue Gin for refreshment, and I was privileged to experience the sincere welcoming warmth of the Brethren of BBF. I knew that night that I wanted to be a part of this extraordinary band of brothers. 

Are you married?

Yes, I’ve been married to my wife, Marsha, for 23 years. We have a daughter, Claire Nora, who will turn 10 next month. They mean everything to me. 

What do you do professionally?

I’m a physician and biomedical research scientist. Five years ago I left the faculty of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine to found a biopharmaceutical company, Nora Therapeutics. I’ve found that a genetically engineered version of one of the body’s own proteins that is used as a medication in cancer patients can also prevent unexplained spontaneous miscarriages. Approximately 5 million women in the US alone suffer from unexplained recurrent spontaneous miscarriage. My company recently raised $25M in a series A equity round from three blue chip venture capital firms in Silicon Valley, which will allow us to proceed with formal clinical trials. By the way, “Nora”, is Biblical Hebrew. It’s my daughter’s middle name, and it has important Biblical and Kabbalistic significance. That’s a riddle for anyone who’s interested.

Where do you live?

I live in Owings Mills, Maryland, which is about 20 miles northwest of Baltimore City. That’s pretty far, how long does it take you to get to lodge? It usually takes an hour and forty-five minutes, but dealing with I-695 and I-495 at rush hour, I try to budget two hours. 

How have you found the time to be an officer in BBF?

Well, through the support of my family, and through the support of my fellow officers (including yourself of course), and of the Past Masters, and all of the Brethren. It’s not easy; it’s one way to say “thank you” for all that I get from BBF. 

Do you have other Masonic or non-Masonic activities?

I’m a member of a couple of other Masonic bodies including the Pythagoras Lodge of Research, where I’m the current Junior Steward. I’m also an ordained priest in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (although I am not Ethiopian). I’m also an avid but mediocre target shooter.

What vision do you have for BBF, and what needs to happen to realize that vision?

That’s really difficult. I’ve been a Mason for such a short time. I have to improve myself so much before I think it’s even appropriate to have such a vision. As the Junior Deacon, I’m in observation and learning mode. As far as my personal priorities, Masonic education is very important to me, especially the symbology of the Craft, which is a relative weakness of mine; one of many! I’m also big on sacred geometry. When I was passed to Fellow Craft, the “G” in the East really clicked for me. For example, I’ve been studying the geometry of the Temple of Solomon for a few of months. I have so much to learn. Should I have the privilege of sitting in the East, I will face a very high bar set by those who have occupied that seat so impressively before. The easiest part of a vision for BBF is simply to provide for the continuity of its tradition of Masonic excellence. But, that is a part, and not the whole of a vision.