Leadership Report

by Peter J. Samiec, 33˚ Sovereign Grand Commander

I’ve always liked this quote! In a few words, it speaks volumes regarding the labors and true rewards of a Freemason: his wages. And so I ask you, my Brothers, how are you earning your wages as a Mason? As we all know, the cable tow symbolizes our Fraternity’s commitment to service and humanity. It represents the bonds that connect us as Brothers, and it reminds us of our obligation to help those in need.

As Scottish Rite Freemasons, we take this obligation seriously. Over the past year, we helped nearly 100 Brothers and their families get back on their feet through our Grand Almoner’s Fund. Through our Children’s Dyslexia Centers, we served over 1,300 children struggling with dyslexia, providing the support they need to help them overcome their learning challenges and achieve their full potential. And we awarded 330 Leon M. Abbott Scholarships to deserving students seeking to further their education.

That’s 1,700 individuals with hope restored because of our great work. That’s roughly the population of Atlantic Beach, New York, a beautiful little seaside town located just 21 miles from Manhattan.

Of course, Atlantic Beach is a far cry from The Big Apple, but you can visualize the impact when you imagine a whole community of people served— from a six-year-old child just learning to read to the retired gentleman forced to start anew, having just lost his home to flood damage.

As we look to the future, I am proud of all that we have accomplished in helping serve those in need. This is the heart of what Freemasonry is all about, Brothers…and always should be.

In the August 1989 edition of The Northern Light, Sovereign Grand Commander Francis G. Paul, 33°, relays several letters he received from members, where he describes a sense of frustrated pride. A Brother from Wisconsin shared with the Commander that he thought Freemasonry was too self-oriented. “I think there are too many hats and badges, and jewelry and chains that say, ‘Look at me,’” the Brother stated.

All the jewels and regalia mean nothing without a Brother who is humble enough to recognize the needs of his fellow man and offer support without limitation. Help and support aren’t just limited to writing a check, either; one can also simply pick up the phone and talk to a Brother who could use an attentive and caring ear.

I recently received a note from a Brother who told me he reached out to his Valley for help and heard nothing back. This Brother said things were so bad for him and his family that, at one point, he contemplated taking his life. Let that sink in. A Brother asked for help, and we ignored him. How many Brothers in our ranks refuse to ask for help and simply walk away from the Fraternity, or worse yet, contemplate giving up entirely?

I urge our members to consider how they can best help those in need. Our Masonic labors are important and must continue—not for the fancy titles or the jewels—but because kindness can quite literally save lives!

Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those who are in need. As we embark on a new year, let’s vow to continue our labors of love, my Brothers, this year and beyond.