111th Annual Communicationabfm.freemasons.ab.ca/ABF1605.pdf · 2019-01-07 · 111th Annual Communication The 111th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alberta, A.F.&A.M., Part

111th Annual CommunicationThe 111th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alberta, A.F.&A.M., Part I.1.L.1, will be held at the Ramada Edmonton Hotel, 11834 Kingsway Ave, commencing on Friday, 10 June 2016 at 1:00 PM and continuing on Saturday, 11 June, 2016. When booking the Hotel, phone 780-453-7347.Agenda: The Annual Communication, under provision of the Constitution and Regulations will be conducted by MWBro Chris E. Batty, Grand Master, from the Agenda, Part II.1.A.4, included in this issue of The Alberta Freemason, governed by the rules of order as per the Regulations and/or those listed in the Preliminary Report. The Grand Master may revise the Agenda.Registration and Balloting: shall commence at 8:00 AM Friday, 10 June 2016 and will continue until 6:00 PM on the first day of the Annual Communication. Registration and Balloting will resume on the second day, 11 June 2016, at 8:00 AM and continue until 10:00 AM (Part II.1.B.9). Note: on the Friday evening, there will be no balloting after 6:00 PM.Dress: Grand Lodge Communication — Business Suit (includes Grand Lodge Officers). Grand Lodge Banquet — Dark Business Suit, Semi-Formal, except Grand Lodge Officers to wear Tuxedos at Grand Lodge Banquet and at the Installation of Officers.

REGALIA MUST BE WORN AT ALL SESSIONS

Elections for 2016–2017Grand Master Automatic as per Part 1.1.G.2.BRWBro James RatchfordRockyford Lodge No. 123

Deputy Grand Master & Grand Master ElectBy acclamationRWBro Gordon BerardLodge Renfrew No. 134

Senior Grand WardenBy acclamationRWBro Kenn CulbertsonEvergreen Lodge No. 166

Grand TreasurerBy acclamationMWBro John D. HartPerfection Lodge No. 9

Junior Grand WardenOne to be elected

RWBro Ken CheelSaskatchewan Lodge No. 92

RWBro Kimberly GreenizanCarstairs Lodge No. 20 and Airdrie Wild Rose Lodge No. 2001

RWBro Art StevensMeridian Lodge No. 129

WBro Christopher Jerrod WoodsBaseline Lodge No. 198

See Cheel, page 2 See Greenizan, page 2 See Stevens, page 2

RWBro Ken Cheel was born in 1956 into a very strong Masonic family, where his grandfather, two uncles and a number of cousins were all members of the Craft. Of course, it was a well-kept secret until he reached 21 years of age.

He was Initiated into Royal Arthur Lodge No. 523 on 6 March 1978, passed to the Second Degree on 22 February 1979 and raised to the Sublime

WBro Christopher Jerrod Woods was born in 1982 in Rocky Mountain House. He was Initiated February 2006, Passed April 2006 and Raised May 2006 in Baseline Lodge, and served as Worshipful Master in 2012–2013. He is a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason as well as a Royal Arch Mason.

C h r i s is married to Natalie and a proud father of two.

RWBro Art Stevens was born in 1951 and raised on a farm north east of Davidson, SK, where he attended high school. Art was active in high school sports and the Boy Scouts. After graduation, Art attended McKay Tech in Vancouver where he received a diploma in Data Processing.

Later, Art got a job with the Federal G o v e r n -m e n t i n their Com-munity Pas-ture pro-gram as a rider. After

RWBro Kimberly Greenizan was born in 1955 in Murray-ville, BC. Bro Greenizan has a BA in Geography, a Masters in Psychology and a PhD in Psychology. He is also a Cer-tified Information Systems Manager and a Certified Di-saster Recover Planner.

He had served in the Military R e s e r v e s and Regu-lar Forces from 1974 to 2011, re-

May 2016

Volume 81: No. 5

Editor: RWBro George Tapley

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Degree of Master Mason in Hastings Lodge No. 633 on 28 March 1979, both in the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario. In February 1991, he requested and received a demit from that Grand Jurisdiction.

Bro Cheel became a member of Saskatchewan Lodge No. 92 in February 1987; was the Master in 1994 and 2004 and became Secretary in 2012. He joined the Lodge of Perfection of Scottish Rite in February of 1992, Mizpah Chapter of Rose Croix in March of the same year and the Alberta Consistory in October of 1992.

He was elected and served as DDGM for Northern Lights District in 2008–09. In January of 2010 his successor, RWBro Jack McBride, became ill. At Jack’s request and with the Grand Master’s approval, Ken completed the official parts of Jack’s duties over the next few months.

Bro Cheel was elected to the Board of General Purposes in 2009 for a three-year term and served as the President in 2010–11.

Under MWBro Shimmons, he served as the Chairman of the Leadership Committee. Starting with MWBro Peter Dunlop, and continuing under all of the Grand Masters since, he served as the Chairman of the Lodge Officers Training Committee. For the term 2014–15 he was also appointed by the Grand Master, MWBro John Slade, to serve on the Board of Benevolence for 2014–2016 terms.

Freemasonry has been a central feature of his adult life. He has been fortunate in the mentors he has had, from his grandfather, WBro Harry Austin; to his uncle, WBro Ken Austin, to members of Saskatchewan Lodge (most specifically WBro Jack Gardener) along with many others and to other members of this Grand Jurisdiction.

During his Masonic career, Ken has also been fortunate to be able to pass along his learnings by mentoring new members of the Craft. Answering their

Cheel, from page 1.

Greenizan, from page 1.

Stevens, from page 1.

questions definitely keeps him on his toes. It is said that education is a life-long process. Being a Freemason brings that phrase to life, as Freemasonry is a process of life-long learning and practice.

Through his Masonic journey he has enjoyed the positions he has filled, the people he has met and the friendships formed. He continues to enjoy visiting Lodges in Northern Lights District and other areas of this Grand Jurisdiction, with the highlight he treasures of serving as DDGM. Bro Cheel encourages all Past Masters to consider letting their names stand for DDGM. The people and friendships formed over the year stay with you for the rest of your life.

tiring in 2011 in the rank of Major, having held many command and staff positions, including Resources Manager. As a civil-ian, he is Regulatory Compliance and Security Manager for Raytheon Canada Limited. Kim also owns Crossfield Stor-age Solutions, a self-storage business.

Bro Greenizan was initiated in Ottawa’s Ionic Lodge No. 526 in 1991. He affiliated to Carstairs Lodge No. 20 and was WM 1996–1998 and DDGM of Phoenix District 2002–2003. He is a Charter Member of Internet Lodge of Research as JW, a Charter member of Airdrie Wild Rose Lodge as DoC and

returning to the family farm for several years he moved to Edmonton and got a job with IPSCO. In 1981 he joined AMA, retiring in 2014 after 33 years.

Art has two children and three grandchildren from his first marriage. In 1987, he married Melody and together they have two daughters.

Art was initiated 6 November 1996, passed 5 February 1997 and raised 10 May 1997 in Meridian Lodge No. 129, Stony Plain, where he served as Worshipful Master in 2002–2003 and again in 2010–2011. He was invested as DDGM of Yellowhead District in June of 2011, serving under MWBro Peter Dunlop.

has been Secretary of Airdrie Wild Rose Lodge since 2004. He was Advisor, Stampede Chapter, Order of DeMolay for 2003–2008; Associate Bethel Guardian, Bethel No. 19, 2004–2007 and Founder and President, Airdrie Masonic Temple Association. He was initiated into Royal Arch in 2006 and is currently Second Principal for Crescent Chapter.

Kim is Donations Chair of the Airdrie Legion and involved in the Airdrie Parade Committee, the Airdrie Writers Club and the Calgary Bee Keepers Association.

Board of General PurposesFive to be elected for three-year terms

WBro David N. BlueAvon Glen Lodge No. 170WBro David Blue was born in 1962 in Edmonton, and was proud to be installed as the WM of Avon Glen Lodge No. 170 in 1997. He staunchly supported the Lodge Brothers who followed him as WMs. David was elected by his Brothers to be Treasurer, and has filled that office in his Lodge for numerous years. In 2010 he was elected to the Board of General Purposes and served faithfully for three

years. He was reappointed by the Grand Master for the years 2013 and 2014 and served on the Finance Committee. For the year 2013, Bro David was appointed Chairman of a sub-committee tasked to consider and short list Auditors for the 2014 year end. This was successfully completed, and resulted in the recommended candidate being accepted by the Finance Committee and Board of General Purposes, and a new Auditor was engaged. He was appointed

Provided to Freemasons of Alberta and the Northwest Territories west of the 4th Meridian who are members of

The Grand Lodge of Alberta, A.F. & A.M.

330 – 12 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2R 0H2Tel 403-262-1140

www.freemasons.ab.ca

Grand Master MWBro Chris BattyDeputy Grand Master RWBro James RatchfordSenior Grand Warden RWBro Gordon BerardJunior Grand Warden RWBro Kenn CulbertsonGrand Secretary RWBro Jerry W. Kopp

Published each month except July and August by

The Grand Lodge of Alberta, A.F. & A.M.

Editor: RWBro George Tapley339 Whitefield Dr NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 5S2

Tel 403-280-6776e-mail: [email protected]

The Committee on the Grand Lodge BulletinRWBro George Tapley (Chairman);

MWBro Robert E. Juthner, Editor emeritus; VWBro Garth Cochran; WBro Loren Kline;

Ex Officio: Grand Master,

Deputy Grand Master & Grand Secretary

Republication rights are granted to other Masonic Jurisdic-tions, but acknow ledgement of the source is requested. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject and re-write material submitted for publication. Deadline for copy is the 1st day of the month prior to the month of issue.

ABF 81 (5): 3

Grand Pursuivant for the year 2014 by MWBro J. Slade.

Bro Blue operates a full service accounting practice, with a focus on corporate and personal tax. A highlight of his career thus far was when the Honourable Iris Evans appointed him to the Charitable Advisory Committee for the Province of Alberta in 1998. This is a position that he continues to hold. It is a standing committee and whenever required, he serves with his fellow committee members to review the rules and regulations in Alberta pertaining to the charitable, non-profit and voluntary sector.

WBro Wade T. CoxAvon Glen Lodge No. 170Wade was born in St. Catharines, ON in 1957. He lived in Toronto where he met his wife of 34 years at York University in 1979. Wade graduated with a BA in Economics in 1981. Tricia and Wade have four children of whom they are very proud. Wade has been a member of Avon Glen Lodge No. 170 since 2004. One of his sons, Brendan, was initiated, passed and raised into Freemasonry while Wade was the WM of Avon Glen Lodge No. 170 in 2010.

Wade began his career in insurance when he took a position as a Group Sales Representative with London Life in Toronto in 1981. He was made Group Sales Manager in Brampton, ON in 1983. In 1988 Wade was transferred to Saskatoon to run the Group Sales office there. Wade left London Life in 1991 to move to Edmonton and begin a new career with Canada Life in Group Sales Management. In 2003, Wade joined Benefex Consulting Inc. and became a partner in 2004. The company specializes in Employee Benefits and Human Relations. Wade became President and Managing Partner of the company in 2014.

He is heavily involved in many of the Scottish Rite degrees, having been a member of the Edmonton Valley since 2005, receiving his 32nd degree in that year. He is currently the Senior Grand Warden of the Lodge of Perfection in that Valley. Wade is also a member of North Star Chapter No. 2 of Royal Arch Masonry.

Wade has been a Director of the Edmonton Rite to Learn Foundation (ERTLF) and the Scottish Rite Charitable foundation Learning Centre for Edmonton (SRCFLCE) since their

inception eight years ago. He currently the Vice-President of the ERTLF and is the President of the SRCFLCE.

Wade was appointed by the GM to the Finance Committee for a one year term in 2014-2015.

VWBro Jim Davis Strathcona Lodge No. 77VWBro Davis was born in 1946 in Penticton and joined the Craft in the fall of 2002. He was Master of Strathcona Lodge No. 77 in 2009, served as Grand Steward for 2015-2016, and on the Board of General Purposes for 2013-2016.

Jim has been a Logistics Coordinator with ADCO Power since 1995.

RWBro Richard HopkinsCrescent Lodge No. 87Bro Hopkins was born in Liverpool in 1933 and was initiated into the Craft in Transcona Lodge No. 123, GRM, Winnipeg, in 1973. During his 23 years in Winnipeg he was WM three times in two different Lodges and was also the Secretary/Treasurer of the Winnipeg Masonic Temple for five years. During this period of time he was Secretary/Treasurer of three other Lodges, the longest being fourteen years. He moved to Calgary in 1997 and affiliated with Canada Lodge No. 165, serving as its WM in 2002.

He was elected to Grand Lodge’s Board of General Purposes for the period 2000-2004, appointed Senior Grand Deacon for the year 2015-15, elected DDGM for Phoenix District 2005-2006 and elected to the Board of General Purposes for 2010-2013.

For the past nine years he has been the Secretary/Treasurer of Crescent Lodge No. 87, relinquishing the position in December 2015. Bro Hopkins is also a member of the Internet Lodge of Research and was its WM for the years 2013-2015.

RWBro Wayne KingNorth Star Lodge No. 4RWBro King was born in Calgary in 1941 and completed his early education in that city when he joined the RCAF in 1959. He completed his studies for a BSc Degree in Engineering and served in multiple locations in Canada and the USA, retiring in 1982. After retirement he worked with Dome Petroleum, as Director of Purchasing and Materials until 1986, when he moved to Lethbridge as VP Operations and Maintenance

with Time Air. After leaving Time Air, he owned and operated several small businesses, including an automotive repair service and a trucking service.

RWBro King’s Masonic journey began with North Star Lodge No. 4 in 2000. He was raised to Master Mason in August 2001 and became Worshipful Master in 2007-2008. He was elected DDGM of Chinookarch District in 2011-2012. In 2014, he was elected to the Board of General Purposes and has served as Vice President for the past two years. He was appointed to the finance Committee in 2014 and serves as Vice Chairman.

RWBro King is an affiliated member of King George Lodge No. 59. He is Past Z of Shekinah Chapter No. 4, RAM, and a member of Acre Preceptory No. 66; Cryptic Rite Masons; Red Cross of Constantine and the York Rite Sovereign College. His non-Masonic interests include Executive Member and Service Officer for General Stewart Branch, Royal Canadian Legion and President of 702 Wing, Royal Canadian Air Force Association.

RWBro Kim Parkyn St. Mark’s Lodge No. 118RWBro William (Kim) Parkyn was born in 1956 and raised in Edmonton. In 1975 he started work with Imperial Oil in Edmonton with the Systems and Computing Services department. He then moved to the Redwater fertilizer plant in 1984 as the Systems Manager before moving to Calgary in 1992. He worked for 16 years with Imperial Oil before being outsourced to Digital Equipment Corporation, Compaq and then Hewlett Packard where, after 30 years in the field of Information Technology and Information Management, ,his worldwide IT engineering position was made redundant. He then took a position with Olympia Financial Group as the IT Manager. Currently he is working as an independent consultant.

Bro Parkyn’s Masonic career started when he was Initiated into St. Mark’s Lodge in Calgary in September of 1998. He held several positions as he progressed though the chairs, serving as Worshipful Master in 2004, after which he served as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge for four years. He is a charter member of the Internet Lodge of Research and served as the Worshipful Master of that esteemed Lodge in 2008.

Kim was accepted into the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in 2003 and

ABF 81 (5): 4

progressed through the chairs within the Calgary Lodge of Perfection, serving as the Thrice Puissant Grand Master in 2007. Since that time he has served as its Treasurer. He is a member of the Clown unit of the Al Azhar Shriners and is currently the secretary of that unit. He was accepted into the Strathmore Chapter of Royal Arch in September 2009 and received his Royal Arch degree in October 2009. He was also most happy to be admitted into the Royal Order of Scotland. He has been involved with the Masonic Spring Workshop over the

June 9, 2016

Cocktails 5:30 pm | Supper 6:00 pm

Fun Casino 7:00 – 9:00 pmLive Auction using ‘Fun Money’

Dress: James Bond Theme

Tickets: $40 | Available from Grand Lodge

Friday Night | June 10, 2016

Cocktails 6:30 pm | Dinner 7:00 pm

Dress: Formal

Entertainment by Trinity Players & Friends

Tickets: $75 | Available from Grand Lodge

GRAND LODGE

BANQUET

All events at Ramada Edmonton Hotel & Conference Centre 11834 Kingsway Ave

last few years and was the Workshop Chairman in 2012. He is currently the secretary for the Workshop. He was founding director for the Calgary Rite to Learn Foundation and is currently serving as the Centre Director. In June of 2010 he was appointed to the office of Grand Pursuivant of the Grand Lodge of Alberta, and he served as DDGM for Alpha District in 2012-2013.

In his spare time he likes to enjoy a round or two of golf, has a passion for good food, and enjoys a fine scotch whisky.

Masonic Higher Education Bursary Fund CommitteeElected By Acclamation

RWBro Martin BumsteadKing George Lodge No. 59RWBro Jason CasselmanNorthland Lodge No. 147

Board of BenevolenceElected By Acclamation

MWBro John G. CameronCrescent Lodge No. 87RWBro Bill LowrieBalmoral Lodge No. 185

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Agenda for the One Hundred and Eleventh Annual Communication June 9, 10 and 11, 2016 Remada Edmonton Hotel & Conference Centre — 11834 Kingsway Ave, Edmonton AB

Thursday June 9th, 20165:30 PM Grand Master's Dinner & Fun Night l) Auditor & Fanancial Statements7:00 PM Casino — Fun Money m) Board of Benevolence

Open to all Freemasons & Guests with tickets Block D Reports — Administration n) Fraternal Relations

9:00 PM Auction o) Publication & Forms Committee p) Grand Secretary's Report

Friday June 10th, 2016 3:20 PM Grand Secretary's Announcements8:00 AM Registration & Balloting Opens, Under the Correspondence & Regrets

Direction of the Grand Registrar 3:30 PM Adjournment8:00 AM Board of General Purposes — Conference Room 6:00 PM Registration & Balloting Suspended9:30 AM Education 5:30 PM Grand Lodge Banquet

7-Step Program to Initiation — Conference Room 5:30 PM Reception District Revitalization — Conference Room 6:30 PM Seating & Introductions

10:30 AM Education 7:00 PM Dinner Deacons & Floor work scenarios Toastmaster — Junior Grand Warden Social Media and You — Conference Room 8:00 PM Presentation of the Ross Shepard

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Lunch Memorial Bursary1:00 PM Formation of Grand Procession 8:30 PM Entertainment1:05 PM Grand Procession

Reception of: Saturday June 11th, 2016 Past Grand Masters 8:00 AM Balloting & Registration Resumes Visiting Grand Lodges 9:00 AM 111th Annual Communication Resumes Concordant Bodies Any Reports not completed from Friday Special Guests Block E Reports — Legislative Presentation of Colours q) Committee on the WorkExcuse non-Masonic guests r) Board of General PurposesOpen the 111th Annual Communication Auditor's Report 2015 Motion of Loyalty Approve 2017 Operating Budget Confirmation of the Proceedings of Notice of Motions 110th Annual Communication 10:00 AM Balloting & Registration Closes Service of Commemoration and Receive Credentials Committee Report Thanksgiving by the Grand Chaplain Report on the Elections

Other Masonic Awards1:30 PM Business of Grand Lodge 10:30 AM Masonic Medal of Merit Awards

Rules of Order 11:00 AM General & Unfinished BusinessBlock A Reports - Operations Election of Grand Tyler a) Jurisprudence **Any unfinished business will be tabled to b) DGM's Implementation the next Annual Communication c) Condition of Masonry d) Masonic Higher Education Bursary 12:00 Noon Lunch — Grab and GoBlock B Reports — Information 1:15 PM Grand Master'a Address e) Masonic Foundation of Alberta Installation of the Grand Master and the f) Grand Historian Investiture of the Grand Lodge Officers for g) Grand Lodge Bulletin 2016–2017 under the direction of MWBro John h) Lodge Officer — Training Slade i) Masonic Spring Workshop 3:30 PM Grand Lodge ClosesBlock C Reports — Financial 3:45 PM 2016–2017 Officers' Photographs j) Grand Treasurer 5:30 PM Incoming Grand Master's BBQ k) Finance Committee

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Candidate EssaysAt the Grand Lodge of Alberta Annual Communication held in Medicine Hat in 2005, a resolution was passed to amend

Regulation 1.2 of the Grand Lodge of Alberta Constitution and Regulations by adding a subsection that would read:

Candidates for the position of Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden shall be required to publish, in a regularly published and distributed Grand Lodge of Alberta communication, when their nominations are published, an unedited article of approximately 1000 words, but not less than 500 words, outlining their vision for Freema-sonry in this Grand Jurisdiction. This article shall focus at least, but not exclusively, on (a) the candidate’s description of current issues in Alberta Freemasonry, (b) his proposals for dealing with such issues during the ensuing four years should he progress to the office of Grand Master and (c) his ideas for leading the Craft in Alberta in the future.

This year’s essays are once again presented in an unedited form.

RWBro Ken CheelI was driving in my car a few days ago, trying to decide

what I should write and how I should word my essay, when on the radio came John Lennon’s “Imagine”. This started me thinking of what our fraternity could/should be like and what we could accomplish as a whole.

Imagine what it would be like if our candidates for admission came with open minds and a willingness to work on their short comings, while helping their Brothers overcome their own.

Imagine our business meetings as interesting and short.Imagine education sessions at every meeting being

interesting, challenging and thought provoking.Imagine the Brethren of a Lodge being willing to discuss

and challenge new ideas that come before the Lodge in a thoughtful and respectful manner, not as adversaries. At the end of the evening still being in good cheer and fellowship.

Imagine the Lodge Officers supporting the Lodge by attending every meeting, practice and social event the Lodge organizes.

Imagine no more suspended for non-payment of dues. When a Brother decided that the fraternity was not for them, for whatever reason, they communicated with the Lodge and left on good standing.

Imagine how the Secretary/Treasurer would feel if the Brethren would pay their dues on time.

Imagine going visiting to other Lodges and being received as long lost Brothers.

Imagine your significant other and children encouraging you to visit and participate because they recognize the benefits for the family and other outside organizations.

Imagine benevolence and charity being practiced in an eminent fashion by both the Brethren and the Lodge.

Imagine what Lodge would be like if every Brother was committed to performing their part for the betterment of the whole.

Imagine the Brethren, when performing the ritual work, having internalized the moral messages within the ritual; convey that meaning to the new candidates and the other members of the Lodge. That Brethren are committed to the wellbeing of the committee, board, office or position they hold and their overriding philosophy is; is the decision or recommendation “the best for the Craft?”

Brethren, if we can imagine something, we can make it happen. We need to persevere, to make our commitment to the Craft second nature. And to communicate by words and actions this commitment, not only to our Lodges but to each other. Above all, we need to work together as a team, to make decisions and recommendations which will last (we hope) for a lifetime, influence others to, if not join us, at least to imitate us, for the betterment of society.

In 1960, in his inaugural address, John F. Kennedy asked the American people “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” We, as Freemasons, know what Masonry can do for us. So the question should be, what can we do for Freemasonry and the answer is, a great deal. Volunteer, mentor a new candidates, become an Officer of the Lodge, join Grand Lodge, participate and make a difference. Freemasonry is a volunteer organization, so volunteer your time, either within the Craft or outside of it. And remember, within the General Charge it states “he did the good act, not for himself, but for the cause of good.” Each and every Mason has the duty to help make this fraternity the best and greatest fraternity in the world. When you see a job needs to be done, don’t complain about things not getting done, pick-up your working tools and get to work.

RWBro Kimberly GreenizanAs we continue our Masonic journey everyone will see the

changing landscape of masonry from different perspectives. Some may notice that certain method of old are no longer practiced while others will look to new modern methods and seek to advance them with simple things like email and texting for communications. We have made significant achievements in the past but now time and circumstances have shifted things to affect our present day operations. Even with this we still maintain the links with the past and hold our history as a proud banner of successes. In the face of such changes to technology, world perspectives, and community needs we must continue to learn, grow and achieve. This effort of growth and achievement can be focused on three words:

Connect Collaborate Communicate.Today the world is a more dynamic and fluid society. We

handle thing with speeds heretofore unheard of and informa-tion is the tool of every enterprise. The world of masonry is no different. If we were to look at the communities that we consider ourselves to be part of we will see that for us to connect with them we have to adapt to the technologies that they now consider to be minimum standards. For the most part a significant number of our lodges have done so.

We have advanced in the realm of technology. We connect with our friends and relatives with cell phones, i-phones, texting, emails, web sites, blogging, twitters, facebook, chat sites, etc. But do we connect to the individuals, the families, the neighbourhoods, the communities? How are we reflected in their minds; not just in our own? Are we considered to be a member of society – by the members of our society? Do we further the ideals, hopes and trials of our community? These are things that we need to consider as we progress into the future.

This leads me to the next step in that of collaboration.

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With every community, no matter how small, we will have a diversity of people. Some will have generally accepted ide-als and objectives to life and others will be special interest groups. We will surround our children with our beliefs as well as involve them in activities that we hope will add to their growth and understanding of life. In essence, preparing them for life as an adult. So we must ask ourselves how do we as masons assist them in achieving this? Do we embrace the technology so as to connect with the new generations coming forth? Do we prepare them in such a way that they can look towards the ever-changing landscape of technology and information and take the lead in their turn?

Do we step forward as a focal point of our community and guide them in the morality, and integrity of life and action? Do we silently assist in those pockets of the community that really need our help? Do we recognize those especially few areas where pride may sometimes overpower actual need and subtly assist as a good neighbor and friend? Or are we somewhere in the middle. I suggest that we have a way to go just to get into the middle.

We need to work with the organizations within our com-munity to make it a better place to live and raise our families, to grow our businesses and help stabilize our economies. To do this we need to collaborate with these groups be they the local library support group, schools, other social societies, youth development teams, etc. By working with them to achieve their aims we help ourselves achieve our own.

That leads us to the last item communicate. Just how well or not so well does your lodge communicate with your local community. Have you even recognized just what your community is? What boundaries have you placed on this community and do you venture out into it as a mason very often if at all?

Communication is the crux of man’s difficulties. It can be the downfall of many well intentioned projects and activities as well as the savior of others. We often take offense should someone try to circumvent the approval system for their pet project regardless of how it may be a benefit to ourselves. We fail to see the value in change for fear of bing left behind and forgotten. We fear that someone may get an unfair advantage off our personal efforts. We may be too busy or just too scared to accept change that w don’t fully understand. Why? Most likely because there was insufficient communications to let everyone know what was going on and we weren’t given the opportunity to express our concerns, ask our questions and gain that understanding. There are also many cases when we had just that opportunity and never bothered to respond. It is being given the opportunity and not the details of the quest, that concern many individuals in our communities.

Masonry is not different. If we have the true facts as best as they are known today, and they are intelligently com-municated to us we can make very good decisions. We can do this within our Masonic environment but we can also do the same thing in our personal lives. Think of what makes you feel a part of a solution and what makes you feel like an outsider? Then take the steps to be part of the solution by offering others the considerations you would like made to you. Now communicate this to your brethren, to your lodge, to your district and finally to Grand Lodge.

Like all things in life not all actions can be taken. We live in a certain level of restraint to ourselves, our budgets, our families and our communities. But that does not mean that

we cannot communicate our desires, hopes and aspirations to each other. By connecting with each other and the com-munities in which we live; by collaborating with ourselves and our communities on joint activities and projects; by having open and constructive communication with everyone we cannot fail to advance the benefits and strengths of our Masonic Family.

So I ask everyone to consider where they are in their pres-ent Masonic journey and then Connect to your community, Collaborate your efforts with others, and Communicate openly with everyone on your desires, hopes and aspirations to help us strengthen the Masonic family in Alberta.

RWBro Art StevensBrethren, the main issue that I think we are having is that

we are all aging! This is the natural way of things, and there is nothing we can do to change that. What we as Masons need to do it attract younger men. Some Lodges are very good at doing exactly this, and they are doing great while other Lodges haven’t had a new candidate for many years, and are suffering because of it. The hard truth of the matter is, if we do not start attracting young men, then Craft will eventually cease to exist!

If your Lodge has a younger member and he is the only one in his age group, take him to a Lodge that has several members in his age so that he can see; 1. He is not alone and 2. He might get a few of his friends to join the Craft with him.

How do we attract younger men? If we as an organization are more active in our communities, we will be noticed. If the outside world sees that we are having fun while we are doing this it might encourage young men to join us. We can have open houses. For the past few years I have attended the Fort Edmonton Masonic Museum. I know that the interest is there. If we hold open houses in our own Lodges every year, we would get new members. We should have more “family” events. The more we can do outside the Lodge that involves our wives, children, and grandchildren, the better for everyone. I know of a few Lodges that have a Christmas party instead of their regular meeting in December. Santa delivers presents to the children and everyone has a great time. Other Lodges have a family BBQ in the summer, while others have a golf tournament. Why not have several Lodges in your area get together and each Lodge puts on one event while the others support it. We could encourage our non-masonic friends to join in the festivities and who knows, they might join the Craft. This way the wives will get to also know each other as will the children and grandchildren.

We should challenge each of our upcoming officers to visit one new Lodge every month. If they all went to a different Lodge, with some other members accompanying them, that would get several Lodges visited every month. They would get to meet the Brethren that they will be with when they are Masters. Our visitations will eventually result in reciprocal visits from them.

There are some Lodges that would not be able to open if it wasn’t for the visitors. There are also Lodges where the members are quite old, they can’t get out as easily as they could a few years ago, and they are not attracting new members. If we don’t get out and visit them, they might have to go dark, and that would be a huge loss to everyone. Having a Lodge cases to exist because everyone got old is such a waste.

ABF 81 (5): 8

These Brethren have so much to offer us in both wisdom and Masonry that giving them a clear demit for years of dedication just doesn’t sit right with a great many of us. True, we cannot force the Lodge to stay open, but throwing them aside is not the answer either. There are a lot of benefits from being a member of the Craft outside the Lodge that would also not be available to them; a Masonic Funeral being one of them. Some reward for their years of dedication.

Visiting other Lodges is also a great way to learn things. We all do the ritual the same way, but a Brother in another Lodge might emphasize a word differently and that might result in your understanding the piece better. The way another Lodge does something might make you want to try something similar in your Lodge. When they return your visit, they might see you doing something that they want to try. During our visitations, there are several things that the Brethren who have accompanied me are going to try in our Lodge. Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.

MWBro Chris Batty has asked us to learn the ritual and to perfect it. In order to learn it properly we must first understand it. Our Ritual Book is full of ‘Life Lessons’. From the Working Tools in the three degrees to the Charge in the EA degree (Canadian Rite) to the General Charge, they all teach us what we should aspire to for our lives in general, not just inside the Lodge but more importantly out in the world.

The future of our Craft is not in the hands of a few, it is in all our hands, and we have to change with the times. The internet and social media is here to stay and we have to keep up with those changes. Many of our Lodges are being contacted via the internet and social media, and it is our duty to get to know these men and their families before we accept them into our fraternity. Meet with them several times, have them come to your festive boards or a local restaurant, they need to get to know you too. Make sure they know of both the financial and time commitment that we expect of them. They are all looking for something but they might not know just what it is. It is up to us to help them, and being honest enough with them to tell them whether or not we think Masonry is right for them. We would be doing both them and ourselves an injustice if we talked them into joining just to increase our membership.

If we don’t change Brethren, then we are doomed. There are a lot of other organizations out there that are also looking for members. Remember the words of Samuel Clemens; “If you always do what you’ve always done, then you will always get what you always got!”

WBro Christopher Jerrod WoodsA beautiful system of machoism, veiled in administration,

and illustrated by stagnation; this is what we have become. We have become an organization of clichés and talk, but no action. We sit around our precious sandwiches talking about what we think we do and make decisions for others, because we know what is best for them. I want to see more action. One of our greatest problems is we are run by an oligarchy. We have no autonomy to make decisions or actually uphold our fundamental principles. It seems that we are being held back and penalized for small details. Our Constitution and Regulations are vague and interpreted by people who want to be proven correct for something. When did cancelling a meeting because a summons was a day late trump performing true Freemasonry. This is getting ridiculous. I’m not saying

that we should be run in an anarchistic fashion, I just want our Brethren to realize that Freemasonry is NOT about submitting a form, being the best speaker, titles, or ensuring that so-and-so self-promotes before someone else and can’t speak after this other guy. Whatever!

So my vision? A true system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols. We should be promoting happiness in our Lodges. We should not be discouraging laughter and excitement in our sacred temples. Yes, there is a time for solemnity, during our ritual. But in don’t believe that reading of the minutes is a sacred rite of Freemasonry. I want our Grand Lodge representatives to rule with a kind heart and a soft hand. Their visits should be a celebration of friendship and not the receiving of a dictatorial emissary for “he who interprets our Constitution”. I guarantee you, if we focus our efforts on creating an exciting environment to meet as Brothers, we will see a better retention rate. I truly believe that some Lodges are beyond saving and others are being held back who want to create new ones. All for fear that it might interfere with the six men who hate each other, meeting once a month, wondering where it all went wrong.

Our Grand Lodge should be a true representation of members. We elect our members to represent us for the current Masonic term, yet we seem to have a Senate of Past Grand Masters who know what’s best for all. Mainly, they vote against a different clique, whom they are at odds with. There are many bad systems in place, that are not even part of our Constitution and Regulations, which need to be abolished for the true good of Freemasonry. We need to ensure that the Brethren who run for different offices do it for the right reasons and not for a “special” apron and title. I would love to see our jurisdiction call each other Brother and not worry about any preceding titles. Yes, we can honour those who are currently serving with the title of that office, and feel free to write as many letters about rank but remember that you are Brother.

It is my high hopes that we return to a true system of Brotherly love. I miss being able to walk into a Lodge room and you can feel the love, happiness and excitement. We need to create an environment that does not foster distain for our other members. We should ensure our ritual is well delivered. And finally my Brethren, need to ensure we uphold and maintain our fundamental principles and tenets. Too many bullies are not enough Brothers.

Grand Lodge of Alberta A.F. & A.M. 111th Annual Communication

Ticket Order Form To: All Alberta Freemasons **Special Diet? Yes No If yes, please specify_________________________________________________________________ Will you please determine your Ticket needs for the Grand Lodge Communication at the Ramada Edmonton Hotel, 11834 Kingsway Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, as outlined below. Once you have determined the number, please complete the bottom portion of this form and return to the Grand Lodge Office by 26 May 26 2016 enclosing your cheque in payment. No refunds will be given on tickets returned later than 26 May 2016. Lodge orders will be mailed out but individual ticket orders will be retrievable at the Book Store, (Grand Lodge Office) at the Annual Communication. (PLEASE PRINT) NAME AND TITLE: Thursday, June 9th, 2016 Quantity Amount Grand Master’s Evening “Casino Royale” Cost: $40.00/person After May 26th — $45.00 Dress: James Bond Theme Dinner and Fun Casino Ladies’ Program Friday June 10th, 2016 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Prince Charles Elementary School Fiddlers Presentation “The Alberta Quilt Project” Cost: $30.00 each After May 26th — $35.00 each Friday, June 10th, 2016 Grand Lodge Banquet & Entertainment: Dress: Officers Formal, Others - Business Entertainment - Trinity Players & Friends Cost $75.00/person After May 26th — $80.00 Ladies’ Program Saturday June 11th, 2016 Edmonton Provincial Building Visitor Centre Leave hotel 10:30 am return 2:30 pm Cost: $40.00 After May 26th — $45.00 Saturday, June 11th, 2016 Incoming Grand Master’s Bar Be Que: Hosted by Widow’s Sons Cornerstone Chapter Al Shamal Shrine Centre, 14510 – 142 Street NW, Edmonton Dress Casual $35/person After May 26th — $35

Total Payment Enclosed: $__________

NOTE: Tickets will not be mailed out. They will be retrievable at the Book Store at the Annual Communication.

ABF 81 (5): 10

GRAND LODGE COMMUNICATION

Friday Luncheon – Ramada Edmonton Hotel

June 10, 2016 | 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Music by Prince Charles Elementary School Fiddlers

Presentation by Lucie Heins, Assistant Curator, Western Canadian History, Royal Alberta Museum

Topic: The Alberta Quilt Project

Tickets: $30.00 | Available from Grand Lodge

Saturday Trip to Edmonton Provincial Building Visitor CentreJune 11, 2016

Theatre showcasing 4D telling of our Provincial History and Interpretive Interactive Gallery

Lunch at Culina Café at the MuttartFollowed by self-guided tour of the Muttart Pyramids

Tickets: $40 | Available from Grand Lodge

*Includes transportation, entrance fees and lunchLeaving Hotel 10:30 am | Returning 2:30 pm