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It's Spring, the time of renewal -- the time for fulfilling the promise of life springing eternal. It also is time for us to remind ourselves about fulfilling the promises we have made to ourselves and our Fraternity. Those promises include doing what we can to increase our knowledge and better our practice of the principles of Freemasonry.
I am pleased to tell you that the initial session of the Pennsylvania Academy of Freemasonry was a resounding success. More than 600 of our Brethren took advantage of the three-tracked learning opportunity: to learn about ritual, leadership, and Freemasonry on a wider scale from some of the world's foremost Masonic scholars. While the men were in their sessions, the ladies of our lodges' leadership were afforded the opportunity to see the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, thereby giving them a better understanding of our Fraternity as well.
We encourage you to broaden your knowledge personally in a very easy way -- attend at least one meeting of your lodge this year! Your Grand Lodge has developed personal safety programs that we hope every lodge -- your lodge -- will implement. Attend lodge and learn how to protect yourself at home, on the street, in your workplace and while traveling. Take a C.P.R. course. Be prepared to help not only yourself, but others as well.
We also are encouraging lodges to engage actively in projects that can benefit each lodge and increase visibility in its community. Through a cooperative effort with the Pennsylvania Affiliate of the American Heart Association, each lodge has been requested to survey its surrounding community to see if there is a need for a device known as an A.E.D., or automated external defibrillator. That is a device that can save lives in an emergency even when used by individuals with minimal training. If such a device is needed (and there are very few communities that do not need it), we are asking the local lodge to "make it happen" -- to do what it takes to place such a device where it can benefit the most people. Some lodges already are working to place them in schools, with fire and police departments, or in other public areas. This is just one way you and your lodge can become involved in helping others -- in fulfilling the promises you made.
Another way is to participate in something new that will be occurring -- something we have never done before. As a part of the June Quarterly Communication, your Grand Lodge will be having a "Fun Day," a day when you can golf, shoot, or learn about the history of a part of Pennsylvania that you may not know. You'll also be able to ride a train, or visit an amusement park. These events are being designed to encourage you -- and just as importantly, your family -- to participate in a truly unique Masonic event.
Freemasonry was created originally for purposes of learning, friendship and fellowship, and carrying forth certain ideals. We all have promised to perpetuate those ideals to ensure the eternal existence of our Fraternity. By your participation you, too, can fulfill the obligations you have taken. Come and learn . . . come and participate . . . come and enjoy.
So mote it be.
Sincerely and fraternally, |
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My Brethren:
