Read More 07/05/2009

From the East

Posted Sunday, 07/05/2009 - by WB Adam Wilson

Greetings Brethren,

I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Independence Day holiday weekend!

Did you know…… Of the 56 men that signed the Declaration of Independence, 9 are confirmed Freemasons including most recognizable names such as Benjamin Franklin and John Hancock, and another 11 are “rumored” to have been Freemasons.

Did you know…… Of the 39 signers of the U.S. Constitution, 13 are confirmed Freemasons including Brother’s George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

There have been many activities that have in the past month or so, since my last post. To begin with, I hope everyone took the time to remember our Veteran’s on Memorial Day, as we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have today in this country if it were not for them and the sacrifices they have made for us. I want to personally thank those who have served our country, and may God bless you all!

In June, we had the Grand Master’s One Day class, and 85 (which I believe is the correct number) new members joined the Fraternity in the 19th District. Of those 85, Farmers Lodge had 2 Brothers finish their degree work that day. Brother Nate Douglas, and Brother Kyle Fulton, who were initiated as Entered Apprentices back in May, completed their degrees on that sunny Saturday morning. Congratulations to you both, on being “Raised to the Sublime to Degree of Master Mason”, and we welcome you Farmers Lodge with the full “Rights and Benefits” of membership. All of these new Brothers, experienced some of the finest degree work possible, with the help of our Brethren throughout the District who volunteered their time either as Officers, or by giving the Lectures or Charges. This also could not have been possible without the help and coordination of our District Deputies and District Officers.

Also in June, was the Ohio Masonic Home Day in Springfield, the 13th & 19th District Picnic in Somerset, the Ohio Special Olympics at Jesse Owens Stadium and the 19th & 20th District Visitation at the Baku Grotto in Mansfield. I hope some of you had the opportunity to attend at least one of these events. I would personally like to touch on the Special Olympics, as this was my first time experiencing this event. On Friday, June 26th, approximately 340 Masons from around the state, led the parade of athletes during the opening ceremonies at the Summer Games, at Jesse Owens Stadium in Columbus. If you have never before attended this event, I urge you to do so, as you will come away with a lifelong experience you will not soon forget. To see these athletes, filled with such pride and gratitude is something you have to witness first hand. On that day, Ohio Masons surpassed the benchmark set in previous years, by donating $205,000.00 to support Summer Games of the Ohio Special Olympics. This is something we call all be extremely proud of my Brethren!

Our June stated meeting was our “Original Apron Night”, and quite a few Brethren took advantage of this opportunity to wear their Aprons they wore during their degree work. (Be sure to check out the “Photos” link, as many new pictures have been added, including new pictures from this meeting, the Special Olympics, and the Certificate of Appreciation presented to Bro. Gary Sites of New Home #338 back in May).

Some upcoming dates and events: (Also see “Calendar” Link at Left)

· Saturday, July 25th - RWB Terry W. Posey Roll Out Program (Pillars Program) at Heath Temple, where he will “roll out” his plans for the upcoming 2009-2010 Masonic year. Upcoming Lodge officers are extremely urged to attend this event, or any other Brother who is also interested, is also cordially invited.

· Sunday, August 9th - Hartford Fair - Volunteers needed to work the MCO Club booth. Details will be worked out at our July Stated Meeting for volunteers, and time slots needed.

Please join us at our next stated meeting on Tuesday, July 7th at 7:30! We still have some details to work out on some upcoming events.

Finally, Brethren, be ye all of one mind - live in peace; and may the God of love and peace delight to dwell with and bless us. Amen

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Adam Wilson - Worshipful Master