Brethren and Friends all,
The Holiday season has all too quickly come and gone again. Our family gathered to celebrate and enjoy the wonder of the season together. I hope your holiday was also filled with happiness and joy. Each winter in Ohio, we cycle from above average temperatures to Old Man Winter moving in with single-digit temps. Hang in there, Ohio. Spring is right around the corner. Remember, it’s a good time to check in on your friends and neighbors.
The Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation has been reviewing options to create continuity for the foundation for improved awareness and fundraising efforts. The Junior Grand Warden currently serves as President each year and plays a critical role in managing requests for relief from the foundation. To retain the President’s role, a Chief Executive Officer position was added to provide year-after-year continuity. At the Annual meeting of the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation in October 2025, a revision to the by-laws was approved to add the office of Chief Executive Officer. The board elected the Grand Secretary to also serve in the new role.
Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation ties are still available on the Grand Lodge website
www.Freemason.com. To celebrate the semi-quincentennial of America, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a limited-edition coin has been struck. One side remembers America’s 250 years of Independence with 13 stars. The other side is a tribute to Ohio being the 17th State of the Union and recognizes Freemasonry and The Grand Lodge of Ohio today. There will only be 1,776 coins available. Watch for their release coming soon.
This past December, I had the privilege of visiting the Annual Communication of The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. It was a wonderful experience with old friends while meeting new friends. Their Installation of the Grand Master and Grand Lodge Officers is a beautiful ceremony. Even more beautiful was our tour of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania building. If you haven’t already visited this magnificent building, I would recommend a scheduled visit in your future. Make sure to check building tour hours before your visit.
Lodges in Ohio are well on their way through the Inspection season. There is no better time to put your Masonic mileage on the car than now. Pick up a friend and make memories traveling to your District or even throughout the State. You’ll be surprised to see how much we learn by watching the Degrees, not to mention creating lifelong friendships. That is what Masonry is all about. See you on the road.
It’s an honor to serve the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The office staff is committed to serving you, so please call on us if we can be of any assistance.
It's a Great Day for Freemasonry!
Keith W. Newton, PGM
Grand Secretary
