Greetings Brethren,

This being my first article as Master of Hollywood Lodge #355, I would like to thank the membership at large for entrusting me with such a great honor. It is my pride, privilege and pleasure to serve the craft and take part in shaping the future of Hollywood Lodge. I also want to congratulate all of our newly installed officers, without their efforts and dedication, the East would be quite lonely. Finally, I want to thank all those who assisted in making our Installation a fantastic one and to all those who attended. Your support is greatly appreciated.

As I mentioned on the night of the installation, our lodge is at a critical junction. As a lodge, we can either choose to test our mettle and serve as greater role models within the Masonic community, or we can choose to continue the status quo and simply remain a great social organization. I believe our lodge is poised to take the lead on many fronts and by which position itself as a center for Masonic education and philanthropic activity.

To solidify ourselves as a center for Masonic education, it is imperative that our membership participate in the Grand Lodge Masonic Formation Certification Program and be willing to volunteer as mentors and assistant candidate's coaches. It is also vital that we continue our Masonic Forum Lecture series, and continue to acquire quality masonic scholars. Finally, it is integral that we build a space for our membership to seek knowledge and feel comfortable spending time in this pursuit.

As a leader in philanthropic activity, it is important that we reassess our current contributions to our Masonic Homes. As one of the 15 largest lodges in the state, it is unfortunate that we are one of its lowest contributors to such an import Masonic charity. We should all take greater pride in this institution, and make a donation at each Stated Meeting. Together we can make a difference. Furthermore, we need to reevaluate our current public charitable involvements to determine how we can make a stronger impact on our local community.

To these effects, the following committees have been formed. The Masonic Development Committee, the Masonic Education Committee, the Lodge Restoration Committee, the Community Programs Committee, and the Masonic and Public Relations Committee. These committees are intended to be highly active and working to devise short and long term strategies for success. If you wish to serve on any of these committees, please communicate your wishes to anyone of our executive committee members, myself or our Wardens.

Fraternally,

James Bayhylle
Master

jbayhylle@gmail.com