Trestle Board

Greetings from the East,

I trust this finds you well-rested and in good spirits after a wonderful summer spent with family and friends. As we return to the quarries, I look forward to a truly successful Masonic year ahead, a year filled with degrees, fellowship, breaking bread together, and the forging of new bonds and lasting memories.

Last year, we embarked on a new and humbling journey, rebuilding our Lodge from the very ground floor of King Solomon’s Temple. It was a year of trials and triumphs, but I choose to only dwell on our triumphs. We welcomed two new Entered Apprentices into our fold, with two more gentlemen patiently waiting to knock at our door. Also, this past June, we hosted a memorable Wine and Pizza Night in honor of our beloved Brother, the late R.W. Brother Michael P. Winkler. The evening was well attended, filled with laughter, brotherhood and cherished stories. Thanks to your support, the Lodge realized a profit of approximately $589 after all expenses. It was a small victory, but proof of what we can accomplish together, and with your continued help, we can achieve so much more.

This brings me to my theme for this year: The 24-Inch Gauge. We are all familiar with its lessons, that we are to employ it for a more noble and glorious purpose, dividing our day into three equal parts. But what does it truly ask of us? It reminds us that time is our most precious material, and that a Master Mason must be a master of his time. If we are to rebuild Carpenter Emmanuel Lodge #588 and secure its foundation for generations to come, we must take that working tool from the shelf and put it into action. Let us use it to measure our efforts, to balance our duties, and to build this Lodge into something far greater than any of us could have ever imagined alone.

My Brothers, I was told long ago that time waits for no man. So let us not put off until tomorrow what we can build today. I charge each and every one of you, to help chisel this rough ashlar into a perfect stone. Help make our Lodge a beacon within the 5th Manhattan District. Extend a hand, lend an ear, and guide our newest Brothers as they seek light. Help them discover not only what they are seeking in Masonry, but what in Masonry is seeking them, and assure them that what they seek can be found right here, within these walls.

This task before us will not be easy, but no great Temple ever was. With your hands, your hearts, and your commitment, all things are achievable. It is my profound honor to serve you for a second year as Worshipful Master of Carpenter Emmanuel Lodge #588, and I vow to give you my all, so that when my time in the East is done, my successor will have every tool he needs to continue this legacy we are building together.

Fraternally yours,
W.·. Charles Kevin Williams