Brothers:
WOW what a year! Masonry in South Dakota and many Jurisdictions around the
world, is on the move and its light is shinning so all may see. I have truly
been impressed by the dedicated Brothers of this Jurisdiction and the work they
do for Masonry.
There have been numerous One Day Festivals this year and while the controversy
over them remains, One Days are a tool we can use that will benefit our
membership. I have witnessed most of the One Days and while some needed more
organizational skills, others have been exemplary in all phases of the work. I
believe or perhaps just hope with my heart, that down the road more constituent
lodges will be doing their own degree work. Until that time let us work together
to put on the best degree work we can. This can be the inspiration for members
to be active participants in our Lodges.
I was delighted to see a very good friend recently. During our conversation, he
shared with me that we have a problem in Masonry. That probably would not
surprise many of you but take a second to sit down before you continue. He and I
are of the same accord that masonry is moving forward in membership. It is a
trend we both believe will continue! However to see actual growth and not just
stability, we need to prepare now! That means giving new candidates the best in
education of Masonic Principles and just as important to be prepared to offer
new brothers and their Ladies activities that will keep them coming back to our
Lodge meetings. Lets continue to try new ideas and understand there is no magic
wand. What works in one Lodge may not work in another and just because it has
been tried before without success, does not mean that it should not be tried
again.
I hope you will be able to attend Grand Lodge June 17th thru June 19th . This
year we will be trying something a little different. On Friday at 12:30, there
will be a breakout session focusing on membership, attracting perspective
members, keeping them interested and attending Lodge. Please take time to
attend, share your thoughts, and gather some ideas to take back to your Lodge.
Make plans to attend now, Grand Lodge is an opportunity to network with many
other brothers, meet with your Grand Lodge Officers and let them know of your
thoughts and ideas.
Brothers this year has been very busy and rewarding. I sincerely appreciate all
the hospitality shown to both my lady and myself. I could never forget a moment
in this year and I will always treasure the memories. Thank you for the support
you have shown and for the opportunity to serve you as Grand Master.
Take care and God Bless!
Gary Griffith GM
Ladies Program
Wednesday June 16th, 2004
6:30 p.m. Dinner for Grand Lodge Officers and their Ladies
at the Masonic Center 520 South 1st Ave. Sioux Falls
7:30 p.m. rehearsal for Grand Lodge Officers
7:30 p.m. Officers Ladies meet with Lady Cheri Griffith
Thursday June 17th 2004
9:45 a.m. Leaving for the Empire Mall {fittings} and shopping
12:00 a.m. No Host Lunch
1:00 p.m. Tour Courthouse Museum
6:00 p.m. Social Hour {cash bar}
7:00 p.m. District Masters, Custodians and Awards Banquet
(Street Dress – ticket required)
Friday June 18th 2004
8:30 a.m. Public Opening of Grand Lodge
10:30 a.m. Speaker
11:30 a.m. Brunch with fashion show {ticket required}
2:00 p.m. Wine, Cheese & Bread Tasting
4:00 p.m. Installation of 2004-2005 Grand Lodge Officers
6:00 p.m. Social Hour {cash bar}
7:00 p.m. Grand Masters Banquet
(Dress Formal or to compliment a Tuxedo – Ticket required)
Saturday June 19th 2004
Free
The Hospitality area will be open Thursday, June 17th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Friday June 18th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Thanks for attending and have a safe trip home.
THE FOURTH STEP IN MASONRY
How you reflect the lessons learned