I really want to thank the Brethren for the expression of confidence in electing me as your Grand Secretary. As I said around the district meetings, it has always been my philosophy that a Mason should be a Steward and Custodian… of the Landmarks, the Ritual, of anything that has been placed in his care. In this regard, you have my assurance that I will do my best.
Sometimes change can be hard and sometimes it presents an opportunity to take a look to see if things can’t be improved. In response to several comments that the Grand Lodge Office hours could be improved, staff has insisted to support the office during lunch hours. They also insisted that the Grand Secretary take his turn, as well! We are aware of several other opportunities to improve service to the Lodges and you will begin to see other ‘low hanging fruit’ changes implemented over the next several weeks.
This (NEW) monthly newsletter is another of the improvements that the GL staff offered as better communication to the Brethren and Lodges. Each or all of us will take turns in updating you on projects, activities and other things going on in the office. And it gives you the chance to know us better!
Civility – A Masonic Characteristic
I hope to make this a standard article in every newsletter. You may ask why and my answer is that Masons and Freemasonry is among the last strongholds of civility in our society. We can no longer count on the normally recognized sources of Civility training, support or example. The focus of most churches has changed and do unto others is become a platitude, not an attribute. Schools are administratively directed to more of daycare than anything else. Being politically correct is NOT the same as being civil. We have a head start over most people, don’t we? Our Obligations and Charges not only define us, but Civility as well. Take a minute to review and familiarize yourself with them and see if you don’t agree.
Suggestions? Send them in. We’re working with several brothers to see where improvements can be made.
A bend in the road
Is not the end of the road
Unless you miss the turn and run off the road.
MWB Bowman, 2016/17 GM of BC&Y
Where’s Sam? Latest update!!
The house in Mukilteo is in the final phase of upgrades and renovation. Vickie and I are working to have it on the market no later than the end of July. I am already in the University Place area in temporary quarters (thanks to RWB Don Campbell). We will work the apartment problem over the next few weeks so that we will be in the office, uninterrupted by house maintenance! I’ll keep you posted, and thanks for your patience!
Annual Communication 2016 – THANK YOU!
Thank you to all of the Brothers that helped move all of the equipment necessary to hold the Annual Communication. A huge thank you to Worshipful Brothers Ralph Decker and Paul Leach. They have loaded and driven the equipment to and from the Annual Communications for MANY years, using Brother Leach’s truck and car carrier. RW Karl Reith is always instrumental in organizing and inventorying everything before loading day and re-loading after Grand Lodge. Thank you to the Brothers from both Harmony Lodge, No. 18 and Steilacoom Lodge, No. 2 who helped with the load out. The newly installed Grand Secretary, MW Sam Roberts, helped with the load out after Grand Lodge with the help of VWB Clint Brown, VW Jeremy Yielding, RW Donald Campbell, RW Karl Reith, WB Ralph Decker and WB Paul Leach. A big “Kudos” to the Credentials Committee for their dedication to ensure the electronicvoting went smoothly and Lodge representation was accurate.The Audio Visual team also did a great job and we all should give them a big “bravo” for a job well done. - Jane Davis
Greetings from the Bookkeeper
It was great to see everyone at the Annual Communication!
If you have any questions regarding your Lodge’s invoices, Life Membership or Grand Lodge’s matching Bikes for Books program, please contact me at kathleen@freemason-wa.org.
Have a great summer and Go Dawgs!
-Kathleen Lau
Thinking of Running for an Elected Position?
Brethren of the Jurisdiction of Washington: Are you interested in putting your name forward for consideration as our next Junior Grand Warden or Grand Secretary? How about serving on the Grand Lodge Building Association or maybe as a Trustee of Washington Masonic Charities? If so, you will want to attend an informational session being hosted by the Grand Master at the Grand Lodge Office on Sunday, August 7th, from Noon to 3:00. This will be a great opportunity to find out about each position in great detail, the expected commitment of personal time & resources, and to ask questions. If you are married, you should also bring your spouse as your decision to serve will impact her as well. If you are planning on attending, please email chantal@freemason-wa.org. As your Statement of Availability will be due in the Grand Lodge Office by September 1st, you will want to make the time to attend this informational session.
Lodge Secretary's Corner
Member Update Reports (MUR) will be mailed by the end of July.
It’s that time of year for Lodge Elections (from the first Monday after the close of Grand Lodge and ending December 14th) and Installations of new Officers (no later than January 31st). Secretaries please send in your Lodge’s Elections Form after the elections, to include the Installation date. No Officers can be input into the database without that date. CLICK HERE to download an election form.
Code Updates along with an order form will be mailed to Lodges no later than September 30th, 2016. CLICK HERE to view the 2016 Annual Communication Resolution Results.
2016 March of Unity
August 7th, 2016 @ 4:45PM (Church @ 5:00PM) - CLICK HERE to view Flyer
Dupont Presbyterian Church, Dupont WA
Outdoor Master Mason Degree
August 6th, 2016 - 7:00AM - All Day Events CLICK HERE to view Flyer
Masonic Family Park, Granite Falls, WA
Ladies encouraged to attend!
