This is an exciting year for Freemasonry in Ohio. There are a lot of new things happening. As we have traveled the state, I am encouraged by the positive comments we are receiving from the Brethren. I am confident Freemasonry is moving in the right direction.
There have been about a dozen District Leadership training courses held. The feedback we have received has been outstanding. Worshipful Brother Mike Clevenger has put together a session that is helping the Brethren hone their leadership skills. This program will help all who take it to not only become better Masonic Leaders, but will help them in their personal and professional lives. If you have the opportunity to attend one of these sessions, I would highly recommend it.
There are other learning opportunities. Wardens and Deacons will be, or have attended a training session. The Lodge Education Officers have already been trained. There is also a plan to teach investigating committees the proper way to conduct these sessions. This Masonic Education is focusing on procedures to help Lodges with long-range planning and successful programs.
Your Grand Lodge Officers have been working hard to find new and exciting ways to help the Lodges. We have asked Lodges to think of ways to enhance the experiences of their established and new members. It is critical for our long-term success to find ways to improve the Masonic experience and still keep Masonic values in place. We would ask any Lodge or Brother who has an idea to contact the Grand Lodge Office or me to discuss the ideas. We are open to new ideas, as long as they do not violate our Masonic Code.
Brethren, “The Time is Now.” Masonic ethics, morals, and virtues are important in our world today, but we all know they are sadly lacking in society. We, as Masons, must do our best to spread Brotherly Love to all that we touch. Have you given a petition to someone you know would be a good Mason? Are you proud of your Masonic memberships? I know you are. We must do all we can to enrich the Masonic experience of our Brethren, whether they are a 70 year member or new. The Masonic Fraternity offers something for all good men. What have you done to increase membership, improve the social aspect of your Lodge, or increase public awareness of who we are, what we do, and what we stand for?
Have a safe and prosperous New Year.
