June 2023 Stated Communication

Brethren,

I’d like to take a moment to remind everyone that our Lodge cannot continue to progress and improve without your support. In May, we had a turnout of only six (6) Brethren. While we were able to conduct business, and engage in lively discussion about the Grand Lodge legislation change proposals, our resources were stretched very thin, and it was disappointing to see such a small crowd. I challenge everyone to take time and evaluate how taut your cable-tow is, and prioritize engaging with your Brethren and Lodge, if possible. Officers have an obligation to make a concerted effort to attend our Stated Communications; you are the foundation on which we build the structure of our Lodge.

A quick note on the Semi-Annual Grand Lodge Communication. An amazing turnout on Wednesday, May 10th included representatives from all but 7 Lodges in the District. Lively discussion and debate took place, and the decision was made to call a special to further amend the proposals to ensure that the language reflects the intent without unintended consequences in the future. As a summarized reminder, the proposals were: 1 - Any Mason who brings a suit or legal action against another is automatically expelled; 2 - Any individual who refuses admittance to the Grand Lodge Officers in a Masonically-affiliated meeting shall be expelled; 3 - changing the language for the Grand Secretary’s salary from a salary to an annual honorarium; and 4 - clarification on the definition of Lodge rooms, and adjustments to the proper procedures with illegible ballots. At this time, the Brethren have all agreed that we feel that the proposals are incomplete and need refinement. We will be working closely with the Grand Lodge, and the rest of the jurisdiction to revise these proposals.

At our June Stated, we will have a Warden’s night, meaning that all Lodge Officers will rotate one seat towards the East. Brother Arce has planned for a guided meditation to an 18th Century Egyptian Rite Lodge; he has requested that all who wish to participate bring a yoga mat or beach towel. Pizzas will be ordered, so make sure to respond to Brother Junior Warden if you are planning to join for dinner. He has also invited the Grand Lodge physician to give a presentation on the proper use of an AED (automated external defibrillator) in case of emergency.

Finally, in an effort to gauge how many Brethren are reading our bulletins and communications, I am offering a bit of trivia, which if you find me in Lodge and answer correctly, will earn a beverage of your choice from the Almas bar. What are the three highest production pinball games in modern history?

Sincerely and Fraternally,
WB James M. Hall
Worshipful Master

Full Trestleboard available here.