Our 2023 Christmas Message

Today in Masonic History we present our 2023 Christmas message.

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

For the last several 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 continues to be true. The rise of hatred in the world continues to overshadow all positives.

In parts of our planet, there are people huddled in darkness. Fearing for their lives and those of their families. We as Freemasons have a light. One of compassion and integrity. A path to bring out the best in those around us. When asked what do mason's do, often the response is we make good men better. We also need to lift others up regardless of their affiliation with our fraternity.

As masons we need to remember "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 set aside the hate which comes with stereotypes or preconceived notions. Make room in your heart for kindness and forgiveness. 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.