World Conference of Grand Lodges, 08

THE 9 TH

WORLD CONFERENCE OF GRAND LODGES COMES TO WASHINGTON, DC IN 2008

On May 8 – 10, 2008, the Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M., of the District of Columbia will host the 9th World Conference of Grand Lodges. The theme we chose for the conference is “Making a Difference in a World in Turmoil.” In a world that is increasingly unstable due to the rise of the forces of darkness – ignorance, fanaticism and despotism – great challenges lie ahead for human civilization. Can Freemasons make a difference? How and by what means? What does the universal nature of our Noble Craft entail? The conference will offer great opportunities for forging new friendships, renewing fraternal bonds, and most importantly, unleash a thousand points of light to illuminate the world in which we live.

After close to a 10-year absence, the World Conference is coming back to the United States, to Washington, DC. In November 2007, at the 8th World Conference in Paris, 91 Grand Lodges voted unanimously to bring the 9th World Conference in 2008 to Washington, DC. The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia is honored to host the conference and to organize memorable and enlightening activities for the occasion.

DRAFT CONFERENCE AGENDA

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 • Arrivals • Early Registration • Welcome Reception

Thursday, May 8, 2008 • Daytime: Plenary sessions and discussions • Evening: Banquet Dinner “A Celebration of the Arts”

Friday, May 9, 2008 • Daytime: plenary sessions and discussions • Evening: Reception

Saturday, May 10, 2008

• Site Visits • Wreath Laying Ceremony • Evening: Universal Brotherhood Gala Banquet

Sunday, May 11, 2008 • Departures

For registration materials and more information, please visit www.glworldconference.org

This is a conference you do not want to miss. See you in Washington!

O noble brow, so wise in thought! O heart. So true! O soul unbought! O eye, so keen to pierce the night And guide the “ship of state” aright! O life so simple, grand and free, The humblest still may turn to thee. O king, uncrowned! O prince of men! When shall we see thy like again? The century, just passed away, Has felt the impress of thy sway, While youthful hearts have stronger grown And made thy patriot zeal their own. In marble hall or lowly cot, Thy name hath never been forgot. The world itself is richer, far, For the clear shining of a star. And loyal hearts in years to run, Shall turn to thee, O Washington.