Brothers,

The first half of the year is now complete.  Worshipful Master Little has led us through a very productive and enjoyable six months.  He has an equally challenging and fun second half planned.  Well done to Del for his leadership and well done to the brothers who participated!

But Brothers, there is much more to be done.  We have made progress in many areas.  Our ritual work continues to be excellent.  We have raised a number of brothers who continue to be active.  We have had several brothers return after a period of inactivity.  We have had several social functions that have included families, brothers from other Lodges, and brothers from Prince Hall Lodges.

Although all of this is wonderful and continues to strengthen the core of our Lodge, I am not content.  I will not be satisfied until every brother of Center Lodge feels welcome, useful, and a valued part of the world's oldest and finest fraternity.  I will not be satisfied until the people of our community know who we are and what we do.  I will not be satisfied until we take an active role in our community, most specifically, in the area of charitable works.  I will not be satisified until every young brother knows exactly where and how to get information to answer his questions about Masonry.  I will not be satisfied, and neither should you.

We cannot wait for someone to ask us to help or participate in achieving any of the goals I have mentioned.  It is our responsibility to step up and be a leader.  I fully understand that the Worshipful Master is the "leader" of the Lodge.  That is not what I mean.  I am referring to being a leader through example.  Being one who says, "Worshipful Master I will, with your permission, call the brothers who have not attended in a while" or "Worshipful Master I will, with your permission, organize a program of fraternal visitations."

So I extend the challenge, who will step up and be a leader?  I for one will do what it takes to make Center Lodge the Lodge it once was and the Lodge I know it can be again.  Who will join me?

Fraternally,

Steve Abati

Senior Warden