LEWISTON — Barry Gates has been installed as potentate of Kora Shrine for 2012.

This fraternal organization, based on the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth, supports 22 children’s hospitals that provide care for children with burns, cleft lip and palate, orthopedic needs and other non-burn conditions, without financial obligation to patients or their families.

As its potentate, Gates will lead a group of nearly 2,600 Shriners in Central and Southern Maine. His goals for the year are to increase awareness of Shriners Hospitals, increase membership in the shrine and provide programs that enhance the fun and fellowship that Shriners are known for.

Gates is active in Masonic activities including Blue Lodge, York Rite, Scottish Rite and Knights of York Cross of Honour as well as other affiliated Masonic organizations. He has served as president of the Auburn Lewiston Rotary Club, president of the Institute of Management Accountants and president of the Board of Directors of Pathways. He is the chief financial officer at Kents Hill School, a private college preparatory high school in Kents Hill.

Barry lives in Turner with his wife, Bobby Jean (BJ). He has two adult children and five grandchildren.

Also installed were Everett Kaherl, chief rabban; Dan Gove, assistant rabban; Rick Hersom, high priest and prophet; Paul Poulin, oriental guide; Charley Bonney, treasurer; Paul Sherman, recorder; John Gailey, first ceremonial master; Doug Phinney, second ceremonial master; Steven Boucouvalas, director; Bill Gowen, marshall; Rick Bergeron, captain of the guard; and Gerard Therrien, outer guard.