Tis the Season

Tis the Season in Iowa. The weather is cold cold, the snow is pilled high, and installations are going on all around. Yes, tis the season to install the new officers and leaders of our local masonic orders and bodies.

I have attended only five of the sixteen or so lodge installations around Des Moines. I used to make more when serving as an officer. I had the great privilege of being Installing Master for Capital Lodge No. 110 and Gnemeth Lodge No. 577, and will be installing Lodgic Lodge No. 636. The public installation ceremony, while a bit dry, does explain to the officers and those in attendance the responsibilities of office. I enjoy several of the "admonitions" given. Like,

"The very conscientiousness of the possession of great authority will ever make a

generous man cautious and prudent in its exercise. To rule well has been the

fortune of few, and may well be the object of an honorable ambition. It is not

by the strong arm or iron will, that obedience and order, the chief objects of

good government are secured, but by holding the key to the hearts of men."

Last night my chauffeur John, did a wonderful job driving to and from Dubuque. John is a good friend and likes to drive and I really appreciate his willingness to escape from his home duties to drive the Grand Commander around the state. It was the installation of officers for Siloam Commandery No. 3 of Dubuque. As Grand Commander I was honored to conduct the installation. They served a wonderful meal and while it was zero outside, inside the warmth of masonic fellowship burned. Next week I will be installing the Commandery in Iowa City, and the week after that my home Commandery in Des Moines.

Tis the Season, for the change of the guard in our Commanderies. As Sir Knights across Iowa assume new offices, new responsibilities, may our Blessed Lord keep watch over them and protect them now and forevermore.

I extend to all new Eminent Commmanders, their officers, and members all the best for the coming year.