Brethren,
The severe Winter made this Spring seem more beautiful, bountiful and promising. With Spring came the reassurance of renewed growth, the enjoyment of pleasantly warm days, and the optimism for bountiful harvests as the year goes forth. I feel the same way about Freemasonry in Pennsylvania -- a reassurance of renewed growth from the impact of Operation Rescue/ Recovery, a pleasantly warm fellowship among the Brethren as I travel, and an optimism that comes from the strong Fraternal support across the jurisdiction.
Much like nature has to take its course, the seeds of Operation Rescue/Recovery had to be planted and nurtured. Now, those seeds are sprouting. Many of our Blue Lodges that hadn't seen Petitions in a long time are busy conferring Degrees. Many are quality young men becoming Masons before they leave for college or to don a uniform. Our Membership Chairman, Brother John E. Adams, Jr., reports in this issue that Operation Rescue/Recovery is advancing membership development from "Winter to Spring" and the days for harvest are at hand.
Fellowship and the Bonds of Brotherhood are everywhere. That was obvious during the three days of reunions with our Brethren in Florida. As we greeted more than 1,000 Brethren and their ladies, it was a special privilege for me to present 50-Year Emblems of Gold to 51 proud Masons.
I find the same warmth and enthusiasm wherever I travel across Pennsylvania. It is important for me to meet and talk to as many Brethren as I can. There are many Lodge anniversaries and special events during the remainder of the year. Please check the Grand Master's calendar in the print edition of The Pennsylvania Freemason to know when and where there will be a celebration in your area and join us. I look forward to greeting you.
I am optimistic that we've passed through the "Winter" and are in the blossoming "Spring" for our Fraternity. I base my optimism on the strong personal and financial support of the Brethren, the Family of Freemasonry, and friends. In Freemasonry, service to mankind is paramount a heritage that we must preserve. I hope you read and acted upon the information in the brochure about the Gold Book Society and the Philanthropic Society that was inserted in the last issue of this magazine. If you haven't responded already, please read the "Golden Opportunities" (click here). I hope you will consider making your tax-deductible contribution now.
Thank you, Brethren, for your support. May you have smooth sailing in all that you do. God Bless America!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr.,
R.W. Grand Master
