Over the last few months, I have reflected not just on Capitol Lodge, a Lodge of Freemasons, but the fraternity of Freemasonry as a whole. The early readings, teachings of the Craft (per 1900’s) highlights Masonry at a time of important significance, a pivotal height in the Crafts history. A time when monarchs, politicians, law makers, scholars, scientists, country men of all race and creed, were bound together by oath, together in Brotherhood. A Brotherhood during a time when humanitarian support was needed, when Brethren dealt with issues that truly helped each and every Freemason within his Lodge, his Community and his Family. But as of late, I question the Brotherhood. I question if we as Freemason are abusing the greatest secret … the true meaning of Brotherly Love … the true secret of what it means to be a Mason.

We are in a time that should be cause for celebration, but the ego of man has entered our Temple, has entered our Lodge and has poisoned the spirit of Freemasonry, jeopardizing the Principal Tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

As Brethren we must remember that belonging to the world’s oldest fraternity, to the world’s largest group of voluntary men, in all cases should be considered a privilege. That this close association of men, entrust their Worshipful Master and Officers with the responsibility to employ and instruct them in Masonry, thereby leading them to a higher state of being and understanding of self and of life. Apathy and indifference due to lack of communication and misunderstanding do nothing more than reduce the spirited energy of the Brotherhood, staining the moral fabric of the Craft to a point that trust is lost … and trust my Brethren we cannot lose.

My year as Worshipful Master has been to focus on the Brotherhood. To instill in each and every one of you, as often as needed, the importance of the three Principal Tenets and that the experience of Masonry’s greatest secret will be forever impressed upon your minds and hearts until the end of our mortal  life here together on earth.

To our newly installed Brethren - the greatest challenge that lies before you as you progress through the three degrees of Masonry will be to “Know Thy Self”. Masonry is a path that truly enlightens and stimulates your senses and curiosities. Be ever mindful of its power … learn and understand Masonry. Know that the path that you have started to journey has been responsible for the greatest of leaders this world has ever seen. Be leaders, my Brethren … be strong, but most importantly be open hearted. Bring into your bosom the Principal Tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and know that you have taken the essential step in transcending to a high state of being, a time when the world needs men of great moral character.

My Brethren, summer is upon us. It is time that we open the doorways to our minds and hearts. Let out the staleness and negativity of self. Breathe in the fresh air that surrounds us. It is a time to change from the dark part of the year, to the light part of the year.

Be well,

Jeff Olafson, Worshipful Master