Brethren,
First and foremost, I would like to thank all of the officers and members of Bytown Lodge for all of their assistance throughout this busy masonic year. Whether it was assisting by taking up a part for a brother who would not be able to attend a meeting, or a meal for a Festive Board, or one of the dozens of other tasks that a productive lodge requires to flourish—THANK YOU!!! The harmony within our lodge is incredible, and I am so proud to have been a part of it.
This year, we had an extremely aggressive degree schedule, even adding Third Degree to the Trestle Board that will extend our year into June. Not once did I hear anyone complain or state that we were trying to do too much. I think the reason for this is twofold: firstly, we are seeing the immediate benefit of having such an enthusiastic group of new masons brought into the brotherhood, and those same enthusiastic new masons are so deserving of taking their next step that it truly feels like a privilege for us to be able to assist them in meeting their goals.
For those at home keeping score, by the time we break for the summer we will have initiated two new members, passed four members to the Second Degree, and raised six members to the Third Degree. This is no small feat, and something that will set Bytown Lodge up for success for years to come. When our break for summer comes, it will be well earned indeed.
At the time of writing this, we still have the Cal Bellamy Memorial Chili Cook-off to come on April 26, 2024, and I trust it will be as successful and fun as in years past. Remember that all proceeds go to the district charity, Cornerstone Housing for Women, so please come out if it is within the length of your cable-tow. It is a casual event, open to all. The more the merrier!
We have an Emergent Meeting May 2, 2024, to raise Bro. Zach Porter to the Third degree; and our Regular Meeting in May will be our Ceremony of Installation of Officers. After the amazing job everyone did at our Step-up Night in April, it is apparent that Bytown Lodge is in great hands for many years to come.
Sincerely & Fraternally (and for the final time),
V.W. Bro. Jeff Hawkins, WM, Bytown Lodge