Brethren,

As 2007 draws to a close, we may look back with heartfelt gratitude for the blessings and comforts we take for granted. As Pat and I have traveled the world, we have experienced the soulful tune of an Incan flute, mourning the passing of a great empire, resounding among the clouds and mountain peaks surrounding Machu Pichu. We have traveled from our perch on an elephant's back in the jungles of Thailand to enjoy homemade apple pie in Ethel's Cottages in Tarpum Bay, Eleuthera. We have witnessed the throngs of Buddhist worshippers, dressed in simple homespun cloth, anxiously waiting their chance to enter the temple in Lhasa to pray. We have walked down the aisles of the great cathedrals of Europe, cruised the Nile and climbed inside the pyramids where mighty pharaohs once reigned supreme. From 6,000 feet above the plains of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon to the mountain-top monasteries of Kalampaka, we have seen a wonderful world that is within reach of very ordinary middle class Americans.

As we begin this New Year together, we look forward with excitement to the challenges that lie ahead. The teachings of the fraternity are guideposts which show men and women from all parts of the world how to live together in peace and harmony. We are thankful for the groundwork which has been laid by dedicated men and women in years past who have given unselfishly of their time and money to make this Lodge and the brotherhood of Freemasons what it is today. We look forward to 2008 and ask you, on occasion, to take a moment out of your busy lives to share with us in fellowship throughout the year ahead- whether with us in person or with our Supreme Architect in prayer.

Shalom,

Dennis R. Hamlet
Worshipful Master