I was attending the Conference of Grand Masters of North America and one of the topics was “Who is Guarding the West Gate. It is you, my Brother, who is guarding the gate?” If someone should ask you for a petition or someone you know asks for one, would you sign that petition without knowledge of his background or would he uphold and conform to our code and constitution? In past years everyone lived in the community in which they were born and everyone knew of their character. Most of the time members of the Lodge knew the petitioner’s family and could give a favorable opinion of that person. In today’s transitient society you may have known a person that moved away for several years and returned. We can’t possibly know that persons action in the years he was away. It is therefore necessary to have a criminal background check into their character by a reputable company. It is also necessary to visit the petitioner’s home and get the wife’s opinion of Freemasonry. If we let one man in with bad character we may lose many good men who refuse to join because they will not associate with the questionable member. As a member of an investigation committee you are obligated to complete an extensive background check on the history of an applicant. Any member who knows something concerning the applicant has a duty to convey the information to the Worshipful Master or the investigation committee. You are the Guard at the West Gate.
In a few days we will observe the Thanksgiving holiday. In America we have so much for which to be grateful. God has blessed us as a fraternity, as a nation, as well as a family. We are able to wake each morning and greet a new day in good health. We are able to go where we want and do as we please—to church to worship, school to learn, or work to provide for the needs of our families.
We take so much for granted. Why are we free as a nation? It’s because we have a military who volunteers to leave family, businesses, and homes to defend our nation if necessary, so that we won’t be in bondage like so many other countries. Many of them have never known how wonderful it is to be free. Many of our men and women in Armed Services sacrifice so much for us. Some of them come home without limbs, blind, burned beyond recognition and others never see America again because they have paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.
Share Thanksgiving with others this year to show how much you appreciate what you have. Make a contribution to feed the homeless. Give them clothing to keep them warm in all kinds of weather. Many churches have ministries to donate food and clothing for the needy. They also need to hear and know that someone loves and cares for them.
And, above all, as you gather around a bounteous table of food with your families and friends, remember to thank God for His blessings and live a life of gratitude each day.
Fraternally,
William B. Rogers
Grand Master
In a few days we will observe the Thanksgiving holiday. In America we have so much for which to be grateful. God has blessed us as a fraternity, as a nation, as well as a family. We are able to wake each morning and greet a new day in good health. We are able to go where we want and do as we please—to church to worship, school to learn, or work to provide for the needs of our families.
We take so much for granted. Why are we free as a nation? It’s because we have a military who volunteers to leave family, businesses, and homes to defend our nation if necessary, so that we won’t be in bondage like so many other countries. Many of them have never known how wonderful it is to be free. Many of our men and women in Armed Services sacrifice so much for us. Some of them come home without limbs, blind, burned beyond recognition and others never see America again because they have paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.
Share Thanksgiving with others this year to show how much you appreciate what you have. Make a contribution to feed the homeless. Give them clothing to keep them warm in all kinds of weather. Many churches have ministries to donate food and clothing for the needy. They also need to hear and know that someone loves and cares for them.
And, above all, as you gather around a bounteous table of food with your families and friends, remember to thank God for His blessings and live a life of gratitude each day.
Fraternally,
William B. Rogers
Grand Master
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