Page 5 - MFM Nov Dec 2021

Greetings from the Grand East and on behalf of all your Grand Lodge Officers we wish
you and yours the best as the holiday seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas approach!

It is no exaggeration that Montana Masons are known as rugged individualists and
claim all rights granted to them by their national and state citizenship, and the rights
granted them by being Masons. We do not shrink from our duties to God, our country,
our neighbors, and to ourselves.

We understand that conflict and resolution of conflict leads to our greatest personal
and collective growth.

We are in a worldwide pandemic, and not untouched by the loss of many of our great,
good men and their family members. Our liberties are being challenged, driven by fear
and divisiveness, and uncertainty of how to do the right thing for ourselves and by
extension, humanity.

Now, is the time to be thankful, that we have each other, that we are of one mind and
have the freedom to improve ourselves. That we have had the common foundation we
have shared with those brothers who have passed to their celestial rewards, and to
those still with us, binding together under friendship, morality, and brotherly love. It is
together, in thanksgiving to God, that we will, by the forge of conflict and trial, become
better than we were.

Christmas, which by its very name represents the Christian faith, also teaches us
generosity and compassion for our fellow man, regardless of their religious beliefs. We
gather together collectively to share meals, gifting, and warm heartfelt conversations,
and by those acts remember that each of us is endowed by our creator with something
special that is important to the whole of Masonry and mankind.

Yes, we are all individuals, and together through the power of our Masonic teachings,
can be the illumination to the path to drive the darkness of tribulations to a place where
we continue to honor what is good in men and edifying in Masonry.

I cannot say it any better than this:
Brethren-You are now to quit this sacred retreat to mix again with the world. Amidst
its concerns and employments, forget not the duties you have so frequently heard
inculcated and so forcibly recommended within the Lodge. Be diligent, prudent,
temperate, discreet. Do unto others as you would have others do unto you, and good
unto all.

Remember that you are to befriend and relieve every worthy brother who shall need
your assistance.

Finally, Brethren, be ye all of one mind, live in peace; and may the God of love and
peace delight to dwell with and bless you.

MW Bill Murphy