Brothers,

It is with a sense of great honor and commitment that I sit in the West.  I am filled with pride at the fraternity and its purpose, as well as the men with whom I have become associated.  The brothers who sit in our lodge are driven by a sense of purpose to see our lodge thrive and grow.  They are focused on continuing the good works begun long ago by brothers who have long since past into the hands of the Grand Architect.  They are focused on spreading the words of Masonry and ensuring our future by raising new Masons.  They are focused on retaining those new brothers and ensuring that they receive all of the light they seek and all the light of which we can provide.

I encourage all brothers of Center Lodge #97 to rededicate themselves to the future of our lodge.  It is our lodge and it will become what we make of it.  I ask that every brother looks within himself and asks, "What can I do to help my lodge and how can we make it better for all?"  The question itself is easy.  The hard part is acting on the answer of which we receive.

I also encourage all brothers who may not have been to lodge for sometime to let us know what will bring you back.  What is it that you seek that is not being given?  If it is because of a need you may have let us know.  Maybe you don't have a ride.  We can help.  Ask the Master, one of the Wardens, or any brother and you will find we would be more than happy to help and bring you back with the brothers in lodge.

Let us use the successes of the past as a template for future success.  It is only through hard work, dedication, and most of all focus that we will ensure our future.

I look forward to a successful year and offer my assistance in any way possible.

Fraternally.

Steve Abati

Senior Warden