"To enlarge the sphere of social happiness is worthy of the benevolent design of a Masonic institution; and it is most fervently to be wished, that the conduct of every member of the fraternity, as well as those publications, that discover the principles which actuate them, may tend to convince mankind that the grand object of Masonry is to promote the happiness of the human race." - George Washington [Letter to the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, January 1793]”
Brethren,
Firstly, I want to wish all of you a Happy Holiday season and wonderful New Year! I think that there are a lot of good things in store for 2016, especially in St. John's
I would also like to thank all of you who were present for the Induction at our Stated December meeting. It truly meant a lot to see so many of you with family, loved ones, and even some potential new Brothers.
I thought that starting off 2016, it would be helpful to be reminded of the words of a great man, and Mason, George Washington on his thoughts about the value of the Craft. There is some very dark events happening in the world today, and in many ways can make you doubt the true potential of the human race; but Masonry provides a candle of good light to break into that darkness.
The Craft provides a forum for good men to become better men.
We hear that line, or something like it often, but stop a moment a think of what it really means. We are one of the front line troops against the bad men and the darkness out there. We cannot give into the fear and anger that can come in times like these, because we know ourselves, our worth, and our purpose. Combine our individual value, with the millions of men in the Craft and you begin to see a large force for good.
But every soldier of good needs his orders right? Yes, but your orders are yours, and yours alone. Look around, do what you can everyday to make the world a slightly better place. Whether that means making someone smile, showing a person the proper respect now often withheld by others, or even providing a sense of calm understanding which can help others through difficult times.
I ask you all to be the very Masons that the world needs right now.
Fraternally, Ryan Nalty