My Dear Brothers,
I hope you’re getting out there and enjoying the Spring weather. Some of these summer-like days we’ve had as of late make February’s “snowcrete” an ever-distant memory, that’s for sure! Anyway, I was so very glad we were able to host, not only visiting Brethren from Maynilad Lodge No.1521 and Éireann Lodge No. 98 at our April Stated, but we likewise had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Brothers from UGLE’s Orrell Lodge No. 8371 and Solon Lodge No. 757 in Ohio. It was truly great fellowship.
I’m also pleased so many were able to attend our program for the evening, where journalist and author Kathleen Aldworth Foster shared insights from her research into the story of her relation Elizabeth St. Leger Aldworth, the only Lady Freemason, which provided the foundation for her historical fiction novel, Doneraile Court. Hope you got your signed copy as well! As some of our Brothers know, by pure coincidence, I came upon Elizabeth St. Leger’s burial site just days earlier in Cork during my family trip to Ireland, so I myself will try to do my small part to keep the memory of our Lady Freemason alive.
April shaped up to be a busy month, with our Grand Lodge’s Universal Brotherhood Celebration at the George Washington Masonic Memorial on the 11th. It was wonderful to partake in this august event and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of our Masonic community here in the District, which is so unique to our Grand Lodge.
I appreciate those Brothers who were able to come out on April 18th to support Honor Flights and help greet visiting WWII, Korean, and Vietnam War vets at the WWII Memorial. Don’t forget, there’s another Honor Flight Super Saturday on May 16th, so come on out at 1 P.M. and meet me at the WWII Memorial to greet and thank more groups of veterans flying in from across the country!
Our program in May will feature a discussion by Junior Grand Steward Right Worshipful Bro. James Morgan, III of his book, The Lost Empire: Black Freemasonry in the Old West. R.W.B. Morgan, who also serves as Worshipful Grand Historian of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of DC, will explore the experiences of our Prince Hall Brothers in the American West during the late 19thcentury. Don’t miss out!
Brothers, keep bringing in those canned goods every month to benefit the Capital Area Food Bank! This noble effort by our Brothers at L'Haïtienne Lodge No. 925 remains ongoing, and every contribution is appreciated. Also, to assist the Brandywine Valley SPCA, the District’s animal care and control service, please think about bringing to our Stated Communications donations of any spare sheets, towels, and blankets—there is tremendous need by this DC non-profit for these supplies.
And, since I just attended the Masonic Foundation’s annual meeting late this month, I’m reminded of all the good our foundation does to help dozens of deserving young people. Check out dcmasonicfoundation.org for more information.
Brethren, take care for now and be well, until next we meet. We’ll see you at our May Stated Communication!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
WB David J.C. de Hosson
Worshipful Master