From the East
Brethren,
This year seems to be on a fast-scoot with new petitions, candidates stretching their grey cells working in the quarries toward their next degrees, and of course a beautiful Spring underway (sneeze-cough-cough). Spring school of instruction was great – watching how all the lodges in our district perform the same work. It’s fascinating to see the subtle differences handed down in each lodge. Officers, remember when there is a School of Instruction we are ALL supposed to attend.
Please pay attention to the date reminders in lodge and here in the Trestleboard.
Speaking of dates, let us make an effort to attend lodge more often and especially the degrees. These are special days for our new brothers, as they were for you and me. Your support on an Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, or Master Mason degree is very important. Meantime, the door is open to those of us who might like to get more involved in ritu-al and ceremony. How about as; coaches, conductors, understudy for the Stewards, Deacons, Wardens, Chaplain, & Tyler. We could use a bit more depth at each station in case someone is out. Besides, science has shown that learning something new or brushing up something already learned is great for the brain. It keeps us all sharp and makes the experience a lot more meaningful to everyone involved.
I look forward to seeing you in lodge!
Fraternally,
John Harder – Worshipful Master, PM
From the West
Brothers,
But the greatest charity which Freemasonry provides for its members is charity of thought; the greatest relief it can render is relief of the spirit. – Unknown
Recently I observed an act of charity and relief performed by one of our brothers. When it occurred, I held my breath that it would not make a bad situation worse. It didn’t involve money. I didn’t involve property. It didn’t involve physical contact. There were hardly any words spoken.
Afterwards I was able to talk to the recipient and learned just how profoundly that simple act affected them.
Sometime later, I thanked the Brother for what he had done and told him that his act meant so much. He didn’t even remember what had occurred.
At some point in our lives, hopefully, Charity and Relief becomes so second nature to us that we don’t even know we are doing it. Remember as you go through your day that the littlest of things you do can have such a big impact. Remember that the greatest charity is Charity of Thought and that the greatest relief is Relief of the Spirit.
That Brother is one of my greatest role models.
Fraternally,
Bill Stout, SW
From the Secretary
Brothers,
The recent School of Instruction provided a reminder of the everlasting nature of our relationships and friendships that we can enjoy as members of our wonderful fraternity. As many brothers from lodges throughout our district gathered, I was reminded that we can see each other maybe only once or twice over the course of a year, and still enjoy a special bond that this brotherhood provides.
The shared experience of the degrees and catechisms, setting a solid foundation upon which we can build and grow our own character, gives us a commonality that few other life experiences can provide. This brings to mind Psalm 133: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
Finally Brothers, you’ll note the upcoming important dates on the next page. We are thankful to be quite busy, and would love to see you in the Lodge.
Fraternally,
Mike Hamrick, PM
Secretary