Seasons Greetings!
As your newly elected Master, I want to thank all of you for your continued dedication to the success of Hollywood Lodge and for supporting next year's officer line. I also want to congratulate Worshipful Marco Romey on successfully raising four Master Masons during his year. As you all know, the process of making a man a Master Mason is both complex and rewarding. It takes a combined effort on the part of the candidate, his coaches, the presiding officers, officers at large and even the Officer's Coach. We are now fortunate enough to have these men as brothers of our Lodge and members of our Masonic family. Congratulations Worshipful!
Despite our successes, our Lodge still faces many challenges. Fortunately, we are already hard at work. As the point within our masonic circle, the Lodge is a source of strength and support for our members and their families, and likewise it is our duty to ensure that our Lodge remains as such. By your vote at the last Stated Meeting, we have acknowledged this duty and have begun the process of reconciling our Lodge finances and restoring fiscal responsibility. Thank you brethren for your strength and wisdom.
Another challenge incumbent on us all, is to always remember that as Masons we are united as one sacred band, or society of friends and brothers among whom no contention should ever exist. Let us then, as we enter this holiday time of peace, love and goodwill, take a moment to greet a worthy Mason, despite any differences, as a brother and a friend. After all, it is harmony that is the force and foundation of our ancient institution.
Finally, let us also remember our Masonic families. We are the cornerstone of their existencee and as such we should be ever willing to aid and assist them whenever possible. Our Junior Warden elect has embodied this act by helping create a DeMolay chapter, a truly great achievement and worthy of much praise. However, I would like to take a further step, and begin the process of connecting with other Masonic organizations. Our Grand Master's belief in Flag, Family and Fraternity should be our belief as well. As such, I charge each of you to make an effort to attend at least one meeting or event held by another Lodge or Masonic Order, and when you do let them know they have the fidelity of Hollywood Lodge.
Have a great holiday season and I look forward to seeing you at Installation of Officers on December 17th and making 2007 a truly memorable year!
Fraternally,
James Bayhylle
Senior Warden