Our 2021 Christmas Message

Today in Masonic History we present our 2021 Christmas message.

On this special day we take the opportunity to talk about Freemasonry and it's role in the world.

For the last two years I have started our Christmas Message with "Daily we seem to be living in a world spiraling out of control. From natural disasters to violence against the innocent it is hard to imagine a time or a place when this wasn't the case." This statement was true in preceding years, it continues to be true. In this past year we have seen death on a global scale, families torn apart and lives forever changed. Those lucky enough to recover from the virus still may see unknown effects from their illness. Despite strides in medical treatments, the global pandemic continues to impact lives.

As dark as this picture is, it also brings opportunity for everyone, mason or not, to make the world a better place. We all have neighbors in need of a friendly smile as we stand distant from therm. Elderly neighbors especially may need help getting groceries, as they are nervous about venturing into public. Empathy needs to be come one of our new cardinal virtues.

As masons we need to remember in the community at large "it is okay to disagree, it is not okay to be disagreeable." We have an obligation in masonry to extend the idea of brotherly love outside our brothers and into the community as a whole. Agreeing with another person on every point, political or otherwise, can never happen. Accepting them in the love which Jesus taught is very possible. This does not mean acquiescing, it means choosing our words carefully to not further enflame the disagreement, it means providing a civil discourse in all matters. We as masons and as human beings need to strive to achieve this lofty goal. We as masons hold an advantage, in better times we attend a space where we can practice this high virtue in a microcosm of society, so we can take the skill into the world and set an example by showing tolerance for the beliefs and opinions of others, making the world safer and brighter.

In this season of peace, regardless of your religion or affiliation with the masonic fraternity, I hope you find a way to let forgiveness in your heart and make room for those who are in need of the miracle of generosity and kindness. More than ever the World needs our efforts in this endeavor.

I hope everyone who reads this has a Merry Christmas and celebrates the idea of peace on Earth and goodwill toward ALL man kind.

This article provided by Brother Eric C. Steele.