SIXTY YEARS of MASONRY in NEWINGTON 1948-2008

Brethren all-  I have served as Master and acting-Master for the past 18 months and have concentrated our efforts on establishing a cohesive officers line aware of their responsibilities and dedicated to pilot our Lodge into the 21st Century. This has included doing precise ritual, making proficient Masons, and evolving systems of operation with input from all officers in the progressive line. We now portray an Entered Apprentice Degree at a moments’ notice on newly elected candidates in our Lodge and do not go outside for the EA. Much work has been done as well behind the scenes delineating administrative and financial policies and systems with the help of many.   Building for Those Who Follow…five simple words that embody the essence of Freemasonry. Those knocking at our door are demanding more and more from us in competent response to their requests and opportunities for enlightenment, service and knowledge of Masonry. The work of Freemasonry requires a “business-like” effectiveness and attention to details thus proving its worth and value and encouraging men to be active and devote their time and energy to the same. The spirit of Freemasonry also requires building relationships with each other and family where one goes to enjoy manly fellowship and share life’s experiences with those of like minds.

Built upon Accomplishments this year:

• Our front office management of membership, dues income and Lodge expenses are well in hand. Our duly installed recording secretary, financial secretary, treasurer and trustees work well together as responsibilities are clearly defined with proper checks and balances in place.
• The Lodge building and grounds are appealing to both the public and our members. Our Sequin Building Assn (SBA) is attending to this task and building operations as well. The exterior is shaping up and the next projected task is the roof and renovation of the Lodge room itself.
• Our activities are harmonious and action-packed where members and family enjoy every minute, come early, stay late and look forward to the next gathering together. We boast an excess of 40 members present each 1st & 3rd Thursday and over 90 attended our September Family Picnic. Some are able to attend only the dinner and others half-way through the business meeting…they are eager and welcome at any time.
• Our two Lodge Secretaries have revised our Bylaws to accurately depict our Lodge operations and worked with Grand Lodge to assure compatibility with all new GL Rules & Regulations.
• Our Secretaries have completed an overhaul of Lodge membership records, Widows list and establishment of a Policies & Procedures Manual.
• We will hear reports from our Lodge room renovation committee and Bylaw revision committee at upcoming meetings.

Educating those who Follow…the second and most vital element of our ancient landmarks is the duty and obligation of every Mason. To educate others, one must also engage in self-study, as it is true that the best way to learn and improve oneself is to teach others.

• Education in Masonic teachings and ritual is the initial step to making a good man better and a Lodge more vibrant. We no longer rush men through the three degrees having appointed a “Proficiency Officer” charged to meet with new Brothers and work on the Q&A’s knowledge prior to receiving the next degree.
• We ask the “recommender” to work also with those for whom they sign for, attend meetings and work on the Q&A’s with them and thereby refresh their knowledge as well.
• Service to others freely-given must also be learned and practiced by all true Masons. It is our charge to provide activities that cultivate opportunities to serve our Masonic Family and our Community. Our Craftsman Club continues to be the “service arm” of the Lodge and will continue to be next years focus of action.
• Those who agree to serve as officers have received education on management of Lodge affairs and superintending of obligations to our membership and Masonic family. More than just memorizing ritual, we encourage the words contained therein be taken to heart, understood and comprehended by all as well as practiced in our daily lives.
• Education is not propaganda or indoctrination as no man should endeavor to impose his vision of Masonry on another as it is up to the individual to take the tenants and obligations to heart and make them their own.

Many fun packed events in November and December  (EVENTS CALENDAR)

More to follow…See you in Lodge

WM  MWB Chip