Erie Masonic District

Grand Lodge of the State of New York
Erie County, NY

First Erie’s AGL’s Message

unnamed - Version 3My Brothers,

With the fun activities of the summer months coming to and end we now enter back into the quarries to the hard labor of Masonic work. It is time for the Masters of Lodges to start organizing their trestles for not just the fun of Masonic education and Lodge programs but also the serious work of making Masons. Remember my Brothers, our Degrees our not just for our candidates. Brothers in attendance, from the Master to the blindfolded candidate reaching for light, each have a part to play. What will all those present experience be? Will it be the true transformative experience that Masonry is meant to be or will it be something less? The men knocking on your door and entering this Craft are demanding something more and I know we in both Erie districts are ready and able to answer the call.

When I first was given notice that I would be appointed A.G.L, I asked our District Deputy Grand Master, Right worshipful Michael E. Storck, what I should do. He told me to “inspire them.” I hope to do that, Brothers. I love to attend your Degrees and see your work but I am far more useful at your practices. Please do not keep their dates a “Masonic Secret.” Let me know when you are running them so that I can be there to help coach your Lodge and build towards a better Masonic experience for all.

The School of Instruction has a wonderful lineup of topics coming this year. I encourage each Lodge to be there in force. The format will follow tightly with the style that Right Worshipful Clayton brought in his run as moderator. Don’t worry Very Worshipful Coleman has added a few twists to keep it new and fresh. With the input of both A.G.Ls this is going to be an educational and enjoyable school year. I can promise you this, you wont be just sitting on the sidelines hearing us talk. It is going to be interactive and just like any school bring your textbook – don’t leave your ritual books behind!

Remember what our Grand Master has said, “T.E.A.M – Together Each Achieves More.” We are all part of the Erie Districts’ team and our leaders are here to help! Don’t hesitate to reach out.

I wear two hats as A.G.L as I am also the Co-site Director for the Ritual Renaissance Program for both Erie Districts. This program, though not part of the standard works and lectures, is a guide for how spectacular our work can be. Last year the first section was run for the Erie region. We had strong attendance but little happened after Lodges took the information back. I encourage each Master to appoint a Ritual Director if they have not done so and don’t keep it a secret. Let your Lodge and me know who they are.

There is so much this program can do to help revitalize and deepen the work that you do. I know many Lodges want more from the Year One program that was given. Let me know. It would be my pleasure to run a short RRP Program in your Lodge explaining the program and the information available to you. Year Two program is going to be on November 1, 2014 at the Sweet Home Temple. Cost is $15 and is opened to all Master Masons looking to learn more about the 2nd Degree and the Middle Chamber.

 

I will see you all around the quarry! Very Worshipful Daniel J. Di Natale