My Brothers, Since January 2024, our Lodge has experienced serious issues. This month’s message from the East is meant to provide a brief review of decisions made and recognition of issues yet to be resolved.
Over the past 45 years I have learned that all members of an organization need to develop a common understanding of the organization’s strengths and weaknesses.
The stresses of losing everything to the arson fire of our home (Leesburg Masonic Lodge) weighed heavily upon all our shoulders and minds. We were able to rent space within the Wildwood Masonic Lodge until we were in a better position to determine a location that would best serve our interests.
We established a Strategic Planning Committee to provide an overview of the status of our Lodge and provide a plan of work for The Villages Masonic Lodge to move forward. The goal was simple, but formidable: How do we position ourselves for success?
Some initial goals were: where should our Lodge be located; how can we replace that of which we lost; how can a sense of community rise from the ashes of destruction; how can we recruit new members in this environment; how can we build stronger community ties; and, how can we build a stronger fellowship of brothers who can survive and flourish should another disaster fall upon our shoulders?
A strategy was formulated and approved. We concluded that it was in our best interests to relocate to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge in Leesburg. Your officers have worked hard, diligently and gently to create a Masonic environment which defines true fellowship and harmony. Additional efforts for fellowship have been advanced this year. More will be forthcoming.
We established a fundraising drive, the Phoenix Fund, to replace that which was lost in the arson. This effort is ongoing.
When we moved to the IOOF, our initial lodge room was small but cozy. Our hope was to eventually move into the larger lodge room at the IOOF. Members of the IOOF and of The Villages Masonic Lodge have labored to renovate the new larger lodge room into a home of which all can be proud. We are now completing the final finishes. Over the next six to eight weeks, our Masonic symbols and tracing boards will be lining the walls.
We have examined our lodge business practices against those laid out in the Digest of Masonic Law. The Digest requires us to follow specific rules and practices. Processes are being improved and to better track our adherence to these requirements. A new secretary was recruited and installed. We have officers and an approach that both meets required guidelines and that has become efficient and effective. We will soon have an office for the secretary with improved filing systems and procedures to elevate our Lodge.
Another issue to address is: What action should our Lodge take to resolve potential breaks in our line of Officers. Recognizing the importance of an unbroken line, we have been working diligently to provide a full line of officers now and for the future.
Recruiting efforts and outreach have been ongoing and programs are being implemented in the very near future. More is planned in the near term, for example, a “Rusty Nail Degree" and our providing an ongoing presence at our town squares. You will also have noticed that our WEB presence and our Trestle Board have improved. Effective representation to other Masons and to the public can enhance long-term visibility and recruitment.
Recruiting non-affiliated masons residing in The Villages and surrounding communities is an ongoing effort. As we know, Florida's rituals and practices differ from those of other jurisdictions. Worshipful Gaudiosi chairs a workgroup that is putting together, a Masonic Education program to smooth the transition of these members to the expectations of Florida and our Lodge. We should have such a program this year.
This is the fifth quarter of my term as your Worshipful Master. We have seen turbulent times. We have felt significant stress. Our tempers may have been elevated at times. We have endured. You should feel proud and comforted by the work and effort provided by our line of officers.
Has the recent past been all that I envisioned of our future? No. But, I can confidently state our Lodge is stronger. Our course is set and as the phoenix ... we are rising. Momentum is growing and your future is in good hands in the line of upcoming officers.
May God light your path.
Jeffrey P. Lessard, WM, (352) 430-8040, jplbbu@rit.edu
