Dear Brethren,

This is a joyous time of the year, when we look forward to festive holidays and family gatherings. But we must also remember that during this time the work of the Lodge continues and we should still concern ourselves with how we can most effectively prepare ourselves for the future.

One of the most critical paths that we as a Lodge must take is to get our Lodge back on a solid financial footing: i.e., one that will remove financial concerns from future Masters and allow them the freedom to meet all their monetary obligations.

This will be accomplished (note that I say will) by a close observation of our expenditures, eliminating everything deemed unnecessary or not required for the operation of the Lodge. We will also establish a firm, realistic budget and develop an income to meet that budget that will stand us in good stead in future years.

To be sure, there will be some additional belt tightening required, but with the cooperation of the various committees involved, and a moratorium on unnecessary spending, we will be able to meet our goals.

Fraternally,

Robert James Rawding
Worshipful Master