Dear Brethren,
January - aptly named after the Roman God Janus, the god having two faces, one looking backward and one looking forward. Looking backward, we know where we have been and what we have done. Looking forward, we can now build on this experience and decide on what we want to be and do in the future.
As Masons, we have the opportunity of setting an example of all that is good. We should put ourselves in a position where others can look up to us and say, "They are Masons" and have it mean something. We can only do this if we honestly judge ourselves and ask what can be done to live up to this promise. There must be not only an involvement in the workings of the Lodge, but in the surrounding communities as well.
Involvement in the affairs of the community will require considerable thought as to where we best can serve and be the most effective. This will be brought up in the Lodge and will opened for discussion.
As for the workings of the Lodge, we plan to expedite the investigation, initiation, passing and raising of new candidates with a minimum of waiting between degrees. This has been a problem in the past and can only be accomplished with the help and expertise of experienced brothers.
With this in mind, we also hope to get all new members involved in the various workings of the Lodge as quickly as possible after their installation. The more experienced brothers can help by giving advice and encouragement to the newly initiated and help pave the road to the East.
There are many changes coming. Hopefully they will all be for the better and our Lodge will be the stronger for them.
Fraternally,
Robert James Rawding
Woshipful Master
