The Time is NOW! I really believe that. As Rebecca and I have talked with the Brethren and Ladies of this great jurisdiction, I believe more than ever that we are on the cusp of a new resurgence in Masonry. I am excited and optimistic for our future. But we must not sit back and rest, there is much to be done.
First, I want to thank the Grand Lodge Officers for a great year. They each have performed at a level that far exceeded my expectations, and the expectations were very high to begin the year. This group of men are the right ones to move the Grand Lodge and Masons of Ohio in the right direction. I am so proud to call each of them not only brother, but my friend.
The long range plan that we have developed is great. The Officers are all committed to staying the course, with minor changes, and moving us in the right direction. Leadership training is continuing and expanding. Wardens and Deacons training is continuing. Leadership and education will remain a focus. There are programs to be added, but they enhance what we currently have and are not 180 degree changes.
The move to technology has really been beneficial. Communication has been quick and accurate with email. Filing reports on line gives us the ability to query for information and help us determine what needs attention and what is working well. There is more to come. Thanks to all who have contributed to a successful “Quantum Leap” this year. It will make a huge difference.
Moving Masonry in new directions is not fast, and it is not easy. Roadblocks, potholes, construction, and naysayers are always obstacles to change, but, “The Time is Now” to work together to ensure the future is bright. It is not acceptable to utter the comment “We have never done it that way before.” If Freemasonry does not change, it will die.
We have said many times that Masonry is not about ritual. I firmly believe that ritual only starts the process of education and making good men better, but is not the entire journey, it is only the tip of the iceberg. We must start with GOOD ritual, continue with meaningful education, and change our meeting process to keep the good men we attract coming back. We won’t change our morals, ethics, and attachments to our principles, but we must change the process. Brethren, “THE TIME IS NOW!” to let go of the “way we used to do it” and step aside so the young men in our beloved Fraternity can lead us.
It has been a fantastic ride. Thank you to all who have ridden with us. May God bless each of you, Freemasonry, and our great country.
