WHAT MANNER OF MEN
What Manner of Men Mansour Hatefi,
“…So from day to day and strength to strength, you shall
members or a new candidate. What do they see?
build up an edifice of which it shall not be said: ‘See what manner of stones are here,’ but’ see what manner of men.” John Ruskin
The purpose of Freemasonry is wide in scope and universal in appeal. For those whose interests are spiritual, there are never-ending opportunities for advancement; for the lonely, the fellowship of good friends and the happiness of social intercourse; for the ritualist, the beautiful ceremonies, the ancient landmarks, the symbolism of the regalia; and for all, with the rush and turmoil of the present world, there is the healing peace of the lodge. Our purpose is to provide a change from the daily atmosphere, a safe and sacred retreat for brethren tired of the hustle and bustle of modern living, an opportunity to spend a quiet evening in contemplation of the blessings and the needs of mankind.
A
t the end of yet another year, conscious of where we are, and with an eye towards where we are going, I am mindful of the many real and perceived problems facing our fraternity in the dawn of the 21st Century. We face a world with new values, new opportunities and new challenges, different from that which was faced by our founding fathers. But I strongly believe that there are no new problems under the sun; only new men dealing with old problems. As Masons we seem not to look to the past, to see what is right with the institution; what it is that has enabled the Craft to survive. Instead, looking at the present and seeing only what is wrong, we tend to change some of the fundamental precepts and tenets that keep us viable as men and Masons. I believe in change, but I also believe that the uniqueness of Masonry is our strength. We offer something to men that can't be found anywhere else. Let us then pause long enough to take a good look at Masonry, at our lodges, and at ourselves. Let us observe ourselves perhaps through the eyes of prospective
Grand Master’s Message continued from page 3
Lodge is fortunate, indeed, to have its Grand Lodge Office manned by such dedicated and knowledgeable Masons, men who respond faithfully to the many and diverse demands made upon them, men whose sole aim is to cheerfully provide professional service to one and all. Let me now close by stating how honored I have been by being permitted to serve you as the Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia. Being a Freemason in this great city is for me a source of pride and joy, an experience that I shall never, ever forget. Permit me The Voice of Freemasonry
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PGM, Grand Secretary
I believe men want what Masonry offers. People today appear to be searching for direction, peace of mind. Masonry can play and important and necessary role for men. Masonry offers true friendship, solace in time of sorrow or need, a solid rock of morality. We have the responsibility of continuing to offer this to good men, in a way that will attract, enthuse, stimulate, challenge and encourage the uninitiated to our circles of friendship and brotherly love. The purpose of Masonry is the same as it has always
then to close with words taken from a melody written by Thomas Moore, who said what I would like to say in these words:
Farewell! But whenever you welcome the hour Which awakens the night-song of mirth in your bow'r Then think of the friend who once welcom'd it too, And forgot his own grief to be happy with you. His griefs may return, not a hope may remain, Of the few that have brightened his pathway of pain, But he ne'er will forget his short vision that threw The enchantment around him, while ling'ring with you. Albert McNair Smith, Grand Master
