Brethren,

It is indeed an honor to be elected Master of Center Lodge #97.   I did not accept this role casually and without thought and focus.  I accepted this role with a mission.  I intend to pass the chair in the East, at the end of 2010, having made a significant impact on the Lodge and the Masonic community.  But this goal is hollow without the support and hard work of the brethren of Center Lodge.  I can do nothing alone, but together we can achieve things the likes of which we have yet to imagine.  My plan is the following.

1)       Increased Masonic education through lectures, presentations, book clubs, and field trips.

2)       Increased Fraternal bonding through Table Lodges with other lodges, fraternal visitation, social events with family, sporting events, and just having fun.

3)       Increased Social Awareness and Charitable Service through partnerships with organizations such as ARC of Meriden-Wallingford, Quinnipiac River Watershed Association, and Habitat for Humanity.

4)       Increased Public Awareness of Masonic activities through media sources including newspapers, television, and internet.

5)       Significant increase in Attendance at Lodge Meetings through increased communication and events of interest with the brethren.

6)       Reestablish Visitations with home bound brethren and the sick and distressed.

I could go on, but this gives a general outline of my plan for 2010.  It is my will and pleasure that every brother on the books as a member of Center Lodge #97 feels connected to the Lodge.  I want every member to get something from the Lodge.  A one year Mason is no more or less entitled to the wages of a Master Mason than a 50 year Mason.  By the same token neither is more or less obligated to perform the work.  Just because you can no longer lift the heavy stones, does not mean there is nothing for you to do. 

I ask that each member of Center Lodge do the following:

A)       Contact me or one of my officers to see what you can do to help.  Give me an email address so I can update you on events that are happening and changing.  With all that is going on I want you to have the most current information possible.  We have tasks that are simple and quick and others that require time and commitment. There is more to do than I could possibly write in a letter or on the tressleboard.

B)       Read the website (www.centerlodge97.org) and Tressleboard frequently, so you know what is going on and when you can participate or observe.

C)       Tell me what interests you and why you are a Mason.  I cannot give you what you need if I don’t know what that is.

Again thank you for this honor and I look forward to a fun, rewarding, and enlightening year.

Fraternally,

Steve Abati

Worshipful Master, Center Lodge #97