From the East - December 2019

Brethren,

The leaves have almost all fallen and we have made it through our first snowfall as the weather begins to change. The month of November seems to have come and gone so very quickly with the Holidays and the New Year just around the corner. Our regular meeting this past month saw our annual Remembrance Day ceremony take place in Lodge, as well as two moving pieces of education – one in Lodge and as well as an explanation of the ‘empty chair’ ceremony at our festive board. Thanks to the brethren who prepared such appropriate tributes. It was evident that our District Deputy and visitors were as moved as the Brethren of Ionic.

At the time of the writing, the Ionic hosted Emulation of the First Degree at our Emergent Meeting is days away and preparations are well in hand. Thanks to the hard work of a team of past Masters this event promises to be a resounding success. We will have a full house of members and visitors including many eminent masons from around the district and the Grand Jurisdiction.

December brings us two important events within our Lodge. At our regular meeting, we will be initiating an eligible candidate for the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry. This first degree will likely hold new meaning for many of us happening so shortly after the Emulation – a happy coincidence. On Saturday, December 14th, we will be holding our Annual Holiday party which is a chance for family and friends to join us for a meal in a casual environment. Plans are still evolving, however, it promises to be an enjoyable afternoon for all.

As the year winds down and we reflect on 2019, I wish all the Brethren of Ionic and their loved ones the best of the holiday season as well as safe and happy festivities. Regardless of how you celebrate this time of year, enjoy your family and friends and commit to all that good you can do in the new year to come.

     “Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new      year find you a better man.”  – W. Brother Benjamin Franklin

See you in Lodge, Brethren.

- Jason Solomon, WM