Today is officially, my last day as Worshipful Master (St. Johns’ Day next or December 27^th).  What an experience!  The primary job of the Master of an operative masons’ lodge was to teach and motivate.  While I did my share of teaching, I have learned so much more from you.  Of the 38 new Brothers who have joined us this year, each one has taught me something new.  Soon I will no longer be Master of the Lodge, I hope that we will continue to teach each other in the years to come.

 In my profession, I thought I was at least somewhat up on social media and many other forms of communication.  Was I wrong!  In the last two years, I and many others, have managed to drag a very old and prestigious fraternity close to the Twenty-First Century, at least in Oil City.  Now, will you help pull it the rest of the way?   We must preserve our ritual and ancient ways, but out side of the lodge room, we MUST CHANGE.

Thank all of you for making this one of my greatest memories.  I expect you to continue on and make this the greatest fraternity ever, by continuing to learn and make yourselves better.  By perfecting the ritual and memorizing great volumes, as our ancient Bothers did.  Lead by the Grand Architect of the Universe, you will improve your skills in all areas of life.  You will learn leadership skills. You will begin to understand the great truths found in the Degrees.  As you listen to and learn the Charges, they will provide a guide and a light unto your path through life.  You will make friends like you have never made before.  Know that I am here to help you. 

Continue to support Brother James Monson in his ninth year as Master.  He and Brother Dennis Butler were behind many of the innovative changes this past year.  Jim has more great plans for the coming year.  He cannot be successful alone, we all need to help, by simply attending and getting involved.  Let us show the world what a real family is.  Again, thank you all.