January 2008

FROM THE EAST
Jim Wold, Master

 

It is a time for remembering lost loved ones and of future growth. It is a time for remembering our daily blessings and looking toward the future.

 

As Master of St. John's Lodge No. 9, I cannot help but to look to the future. This coming year holds many special treasures for all of us. Table Lodge, the Family Brunch, Herbs Night, the Open Air Master Mason degree (which we are putting on this year as well as opening and closing lodge at the Masonic Park), Youth Programs, lodge outings, such as Ride the Ducks and Bus Tour to Leavenworth for Oktoberfest, to name a few. It will be a busy year.          But, I would be remiss if I didn't look back and pay tribute to the Past Masters, trustees and members of the  lodge who left our lodge in its current state, which is very strong and vibrant.

Our membership and financial portfolio continue to grow and that is something we can all appreciate. I thank you for your past contributions and for your continuing support.

Looking back to the past year, I'm sure the Scythe of Time has visited most of our families. We grieve our loved ones passing, but know they are in a better place. We as Masons are taught of the immortality of the soul. We will see that the good works started by our loved ones continue. And, that their memory stays close to our hearts.

Looking to the future, we must continue to grow our lodge and fraternity. We need to attract good men who are looking to improve themselves and make a difference in our community. We have several new members who have yet to find their niche within our lodge. We as officers, trustees and older members need to help our newer members find their place and become active participants in our journey.

We have all traveled that rough and rugged road, at one time or another.

Let us not forget to stop and pick up those who need a ride, both literally and figuratively;  to go that extra step to make sure that every brother who wants to come to lodge has a way to get there.

Let us help a brother understand what his duties are and what is expected of him. Remember to praise in public and reprimand in private.

Let us be quick to offer a friendly hello to a visitor and make him feel welcome in our lodge.  And let us all work together in harmony for the betterment of our families, our communities and ourselves.

We have a great lodge, with a long and esteemed record of service to our members and community. As we enter 2008, let us make some new memories for which we may be proud.

Coming to Dinner at 6:15? RSVP at  206 623-0261

FELLOWCRAFT DEGREE

Bro. George Rine is assembling a team for the Fellowcraft degree, scheduled for Wednesday, January 30.  A practice will be held on Thursday, January 10th.

EVENING WITH GRAND MASTER

The District 4 & 5 reception for the Grand Master will be March 8 at 5:30 at the Ballard Masonic Center.  Tickets for the dinner will be $25 each.

CALENDAR

 

GOOD FOOD!  GOOD FELLOWSHIP!  COME TO LODGE! January marks the beginning of a new calendar year and a new Masonic year for St. John's.  Worshipful Master Jim Wold encourages all brothers within the sound of the gavel to come join us in our monthly celebration of spirit, friendship, and festive table.  To our lodge brothers, we invite you to share in our deliberations.  We invite you to give  good council and help to be part of our continuing growth and fellowship.  At St. John's, we always begin our monthly gatherings with a social hour around 5:30, with a delicious complimentary dinner served at 6:15 followed by an interesting program of education or entertainment prior to our 7:30pm stated communication.  We try to conclude the evening shortly after 9pm, although we have  been  known  to  have  too  good a  time  and too much to do to always meet that self-imposed deadline.  Good friends and good brothers are hard to leave behind for another whole month!   Our next stated communication will be Wednesday, January 16.  Representatives from the Sea Scouts will give us an update on how their 'shipmates' are doing.    WBro. Charlie Tupper will speak to us about how to prepare to become the Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge. Please make your dinner reservations with the secretary at 206 623-0261 or email by Friday, January 11th prior to the meeting.  All dinners are hosted by St. John's! If you need a ride, the secretary will be happy to find one for you.  Do you know of a brother who has not attended lodge in a while?  Call him and ask if you can pick him up and bring him to lodge for a little fellowship and fun! Entered Apprentices and Fellowcrafts are always welcome, too.