Deputy Grand Master's Calendar
Brethren,
Thank you for the honor and privilege you have bestowed upon me by allowing me to  serve you as your Deputy Grand Master. I cannot say thank you enough. Your overwhelming support, for not just myself, but for all your Grand Lodge Officers, is very gratifying.
We have recently concluded our 180th Grand Lodge Communication, and I must commend each and every one of you for your foresight.
Brethren, we are at a positive crossroads in our Fraternity. The exposure we have received from various films as well as books has put us at the forefront of many curious young men. They are inquiring into petitioning our Lodges. We must now examine our own Lodges and make sure that our Catechism Instructors, Mentors and Masonic Education Committees are up to speed and that their Proficiency cards are up to date.
Many of you have heard me say that to get back to the Membership that we once enjoyed in the early 1990’s is not a difficult task. It takes just 10% of us each year to bring in a Petition to replace ourselves. If we accomplish this, my Brothers, we will be well off to increasing our membership. By accomplishing this mission we can overcome losses because of death and NPD.
My Brothers, the biggest culprit the past couple years has not been losses due to death, but losses due to NPD. We must examine the reason we are losing so many Brothers to NPD. Can it be the economic times we are all experiencing right now? Is it because we are not communicating with our Brothers until it is time to suspend them? Let’s examine ways that we can HELP our Brothers, as we should through turbulent times. Let us begin calling them in February or March inviting them to come to Lodge and other functions.
Brethren, It has been said that the purpose of Freemasonry is the pursuit of excellence. All of the teachings of Masonry are directed to excellence in performing our duties to God, our country, our neighbors and ourselves. The continuing effort to improve oneself is the true mark of a Mason. This principle is well stated: “We must constantly be vigil that in every moment of our life – in public – at work – at pleasure – with our families – even when you are alone – YOU ARE A MASON!”
My Brethren, you are Grand Lodge and it is with great honor and humility that I serve you.
Fraternally submitted,
J. Dick Martinez
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