M.W.
DANIEL L. LUNSFORD
MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND
MASTER
To The Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, Right Worshipful Grand Senior
and Grand Junior Wardens, Past Grand Masters, Grand Lodge Officers,
Worshipful Masters, Visiting Dignitaries and Brothers.
Greetings:
Knowing that only through his Grace, I give thanks to God for allowing me to
stand before you today, as well as the opportunity to serve this august
body. It is a distinct honor and pleasure as Grand Master of Masons for the
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., Washington and
Jurisdiction, to welcome each of you to this our Eighty-Nineth (89th) Annual
Communication.
I want to take this opportunity to thank this Grand Body for allowing me the
great honor of serving our Grand Jurisdiction by bestowing on me the highest
honor possible, by electing me as its Most Worshipful Grand Master. I pray
that I have not disappointed nor disgraced you as I attempted to provide
good leadership to our Masonic Family as well as representing our Grand
Jurisdiction in a manner that would properly reflect our great order
throughout my many travels.
Before proceeding further, I would be remised not to thank my family for
their understanding, strength and support rendered me this past year. For
without that understanding and support the successes that we enjoy surely
would have been negatively impacted.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all Elected and Appointed Grand
Lodge officers, and all Past Grand Masters for the great support rendered me
this past year. However in fairness to those who gave 100% and more, I must
say that in my opinion, some officers fell short in their expected team
role, as well as the responsibilities of their position. This however can
and probably will be remedied through appointments made by the next
administration.
Again, I must say a Grand Master could not have more proficient, dedicated,
supportive and team-oriented line officers than those I have had the
privilege of working with these past two years. To each of you I say thank
you for your strong and much appreciated support.
Deputy Grand Master, Victor S. Baxter, you were always there when I needed
you, including those last minute notices to attend meetings and being
assigned special projects to resolve. Not to mention your responsibilities
as chairman for the Grand Entertainment Committee; and I must not forget
your sacrificed Saturdays working with our Masonic choir knowing it was a
frustrating experience.
Grand Senior Warden, William C. Rheubottom has provided excellent leadership
in the organization of our annual Spring Workshop and has continued to
produce and improve our Masonic Community Monitor publication, and continues
to address other special projects assigned as well as his responsibilities
on the Grand Entertainment Committee. Bill also represented us this past
year by accepting an assignment to be guest speaker for a lodge in Victoria,
B.C..
Grand Junior Warden, James B. Sloan is a Work-A-Holic, once he set his
direction there’s no looking back. The work he and his staff have
accomplished this past year with our youth has been simply outstanding. Both
the youth and adult memberships have increased as well as more youth and
adults attending meetings. Many of our young boys cannot wait to attend the
next meeting. Although I have no direct involvement, I’ve had parents
contact me and say what an excellent job we are doing with the youth, also
they can recognize positive changes in their behavior. Some youth are
boasting in their schools about their involvement with the Knights of
Pythagoras.
I heard many positive comments made by members of our communities when the
two councils in district #1 and #2 were invited and served as ushers at the
two events held at the Tacoma Dome, (Banquet Honoring Jack E. Tanner,
Federal Judge and the Annual Martin L. King, Jr. Annual Recognition Award
and Celebration). I also had the honor of being received in the first, to my
knowledge, Grand Conclave held by the Knights of Pythagoras in Washington
Jurisdiction. All are to be congratulated; it was a site to behold. R.W.
Sloan and his committee for Scholarship Enhancement continues to do great
things, you may recall what they accomplished last year. In fairness to him,
I won’t mention anything at this point that might take away from his report.
I am confident you will be well pleased.
The Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, what can I say other than Job Well
Done. The performance of brothers Timmes and Archibald, respectively has
been simply outstanding. in carrying out their responsibilities, to observe
them it would appear to be effortless, however we all know this is not the
case. We can feel assured that our finances and records are well maintained
by these two responsible individuals.
Grand Lecturer, Jesse P. Miller, continues to amaze me, he is everywhere.
Before the recognition between the Grand Lodge of Washington and our Grand
Lodge, it was a challenge for a Grand Lecturer to travel and service the
lodges within our jurisdiction. This brother has not only met that challenge
but also meets the requests made of him to visit and address lodges of the
Grand Lodge of Washington. We could not have elected a better ambassador. In
addition to his regular duties he was given a special assignment, that of
chairing a committee appointed by the Grand Master and has done an
excellent job. I will allow him to present this project at a later time.
Your Grand Lecturer is proficient in his work, thank you Grand Lecturer
Miller.
There are many others that are worthy of mention and you know who you are,
however time will not permit. I will just say to all of you on behalf of
myself and the craft, thank you for your efforts and your contributions.
- NECROLOGY -
Grand Architect of the Universe, creator of all mankind, grant us thy peace
at this moment Bless us in thy Holy name. We mourn, not for our departed
brothers but for us who remain behind and shall not see them for a while.
Our hearts are full by the memory of those whom God in his infinite wisdom
has taken on the Journey to eternal rest. Let us pause for a moment in
tribute to those brothers who have departed this troubled earthly world, who
are now with the Grand Master of the Universe for beyond the sky.
Charlie R. Smith Cassia #5
June 29, 1991
Charlie Jennings Evergreen #9
June 29, 1991
Isaac Mitchell . Guiding Star
#6 August 8, 1991
Willie Rolax, Sr. Abiff #37
August 28, 1991
Talbert D. Fowler Lee Grant Rogers,
#61 October 3,1991
David H. Dudley Harmony #2
October 19, 1991
David Dawson Hercules #17
November 3,1991
Roland D. Minnis Olympus #45
November 8, 1992
Earl Blackshear Cassia #5
November 9, 1991
James E. Lockhard
Harmony #2 November 20, 1991
George Gaston, Sr.
Martin Luther King Jr. #65 November 25, 1991
Albert Ratcliff
Hercules #17 December 7, 1991
Nathaniel Brannon
Harmony #2 December 9, 1991
F.C. Prosper Smith
Martin Luther King Jr. #65 December 12, 1991
Obera Edward, Jr.
Cherry Blossom #42 January 17, 1992
Samuel G. Rembert
Hamma Hamma #35 February 18, 1992
James D. Hall
Mabuhay #59 March 9, 1992
Leon T. Nolan
Lee Grant Rogers #61 June 11, 1992
-STATE OF THE CRAFT-
There has been a great deal of activity within our jurisdiction this past
Masonic year, some negative and some positive.
From a negative perspective, many of our lodges have been impacted by the
downsizing of our U.S. Military forces. The greatest impact being felt by
our European Lodges. At last report it has caused three lodges, one of which
was a UD, to be completely eliminated and another to be relocated. All
remaining lodges were affected by the lose of members.
With the withdrawal of all military forces from the Republic of Philippines,
I made an unpopular decision and issuance for the closing of one of our
largest active, productive and supportive lodges, Mabuhay #59, effective
July 12, 1992.
Another negative is the non-compliance by many lodges to the twenty-five
dollar Education Assessment approved by many of you at our 88th Annual
Communication, that became payable on or before June 20, 1992. Some lodges
have attempted to pay, some have requested extensions, while others have
done absolutely nothing. Those lodges failing in these categories will be
confronted and asked their Intentions toward the compliance of this
obligation.
Also impacting our Craft negatively are those who are only content when they
are busy creating havoc and confusion, or seeking revenge. It is said that
when we seek revenge, we administer slow poison to ourselves. They are the
ones who throw rumors and lies as if they were stones and stand innocent
with their hands in their pockets, and like bats they operate only from
darkness. These individuals have long forgotten the principles and tenets of
the order, not to mention the obligations they swore to uphold. They are not
difficult to identify, because they are usually the ones nearest you looking
like the cat who swallowed the canary and are usually the ones doing nothing
for the good of the order.
From a positive perspective, even with the downsizing of our armed forces,
we have four U.D. lodges being recommended to receive charters, one from
mainland Japan and three from Germany. I want to commend D.D.G.M. Leslie Jones,
District #6 and D.D.G.M. Andrew Morgan, District #9, for their insight, hard
work and dedication.
Excluding the members of the UD Lodges, from the 2755 members reported
during this same period last year, our current membership is 2925, an
increase of 170 members. This can be attributed to the continuous efforts of
many of our lodges, as well as those lodges who traditionally were not so
aggressive in their actions or visibility.
With the downsizing of the military forces in other areas, we are
experiencing a build-up of military forces within Washington State. Many of
our lodges are now reaping the benefits of this change.
As for those who are content with destroying and creating confusion, slowly
they are being exposed and as well as eliminated. Their numbers are two and
getting smaller with each passing day. Some however, are very difficult to
expose, but I am confident that in time, Good will cast a light so Bright
that they too will be exposed and eventually eliminated. Meanwhile, until
this occurs, we must be ever mindful of their presence, knowing the devil is
always busy.
Also from a positive note, with much of the revenue coming from our most
recent quarterly reports, we have now received better than 66% of our
Educational Assessment. We can now put the committee in place to address the
intended usage of these funds. Those of you who have complied with the
assessment are to be commended.
- STATE OF THE NATION -
It has been said that sometimes the best way to get attention is to ask a
question. My question to you is how do you view the nation, particularly as
it affects African Americans? If you think this is two questions combined,
then you are absolutely correct.
History has shown over and over again that there are two separate agendas,
one for African Americans and one for other races of people.
We have been inundated by the news media of the Rodney King travesty in Los
Angeles and the truck driver incident The system and the news media has
given the message that it is OK for an African American to be beaten
mercilessly, but it is not OK for a Caucasian to be beaten, even though the
proof was on tape in both situations.
When Haitian refugees risk their lives and that of their children trying to
escape political tyranny in their country, they are forced to return home
because the powers that be in this country say they are fleeing Haiti
because of economic reasons. These people in power, positions and wealth
have never felt the pains of hunger or lived under such conditions that
these Haitians live under and yet struggle to survive. Our country has never
been to war with them.
When refugees enter this country from the former Soviet Bloc countries they
receive totally different treatment. They are welcomed, honored and given
different amenities. At one time our country viewed these people as our
enemy. We built bomb shelters and fought wars against them. Many African
Americans served the government in these wars and political battles, and
came home to live under different agendas.
Today we are no longer living in an isolated society. Our community is a
world or global community. Can you remember when we did not have restaurants
featuring Mexican, Chinese, Korean or other ethnic food choices? Look
around, today they are everywhere. In our African American neighborhoods
there was usually a Barbecue Stand or a Cafe. Those people worked hard,
gave good food and service, but they did not grow. Why? Two separate
agendas?
Today, Ross Perot is running for President. He has never served in a major
political capacity. Yet he is seen as the great white hope for this country,
a leader that is noted for the times. When Jesse Jackson vigorously sought
the presidency, received the popular vote after registering and motivating
thousands of people, they said he Is not ready yet, he has not held a major
political office. Why? Two separate agendas?
Now to get to where you live, in your neighborhood, where you work, where
you worship, are there two separate agendas? Look around. The invisible
Insidious cloud that prevailed over Los Angeles and moved across the
country, is everywhere. When any people are continually oppressed and
mistreated it brings about an eruption that cannot be contained. Situations
must be addressed. Our unborn babies, our youth and our elders must be
protected. We all want to live, work, grow and thrive In this global
community in an atmosphere where the air is clean, jobs are available and
people are treated with dignity and respect regardless of their conditions.
Again I say to you, How do you view the nation, particularly as an African
American. What are you doing to make this world a better place? There can be
many answers and solutions. Think about what you can do.
Perhaps a very sound and profound answer is found in the Old Testament of
the Bible in the Book of 11 Chronicles, Chapter 7, beginning at verse 14....
(The Lord and Solomon are having a conversation) “0 If my people, which are
called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and
turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive
their sin, and will heal their land. This is a good chapter to read for your
further enlightenment. God heard Solomon’s prayer, and we can believe that
he will also hear our prayers.
As we move forward into a new environment, a new year and a new agenda, let
us be more creative, innovative, motivated, and dedicated. We can and we
must work our own agendas, together.
- CONFERENCE OF GRAND MASTERS -
This past May I had the great privilege of attending the 73rd Conference of
Grand Masters, held in Nassau, Bahamas, hosted by Most Worshipful Grand
Master Charles B. Sands. The conference was exceptionally enjoyable in that
the 111th Annual Session for the United Supreme Council, A.A.S.R. of
Masonry, Northern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., Inc., was held at the same location
immediately following the Grand Master Conference. It was truly gratifying
to see so many sisters and brothers from the Washington Jurisdiction in
attendance.
As I recall, with the exception of three, all Prince Hall Grand Masters were
in attendance for the Conference.
There were many issues addressed during the Conference of which I will share
just a couple. One point discussed, which has been ongoing, was the respect
and protocol given Grand Masters by Appendant Bodies. Another was the
establishment of uniform protocol throughout all Prince Hall Jurisdictions;
and the enhancement of our youth program, Knights of Pythagoras.
There was also information shared concerning some of the Jurisdictions
having joint agreements with their counterparts within their Jurisdiction
for recognition and Rights of Visitation. It would appear for those who have
entered into such agreements, the benefit and relationship are very
positive. However, we are not home free, there are still those from both
sides who are opposed to the relationship. It was also revealed that other
Jurisdictions are pursuing similar agreements. However, many of the hard
core Jurisdictions who from the very beginning openly opposed such
relationships, once again reconfirmed their positions.
Also noteworthy, for the first time ever to my knowledge, was the opening of
the United Supreme Council, when the Grand Masters were received
(approximately 22) each was regaled as a Grand Master.
- FRATERNAL RELATIONS -
Once again I am pleased to report that peace and harmony exist between our
Grand Organizations of the Prince Hall Family of Washington. I have
experienced pleasant working relationships with both Grand Worthy Matron,
Bennie Sue Wright, Prince Hall Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Stars and
Most Ancient Grand Matron, Rubye McCullar, Prince Hall Grand High Court,
Heroines of Jericho.
The good working relationship that has been established with Grand Inspector
General, James W. Davis and myself continues. Although he Is probably not
present today due to illness, I wish to thank him for his support and wish
him a speedy recovery. Also I wish to thank Grand Inspector General Frank
Russell for his support and positive working relationship.
The fraternal relationship between the Grand Lodge of Washington, F. & A.M.,
and our jurisdiction continues to thrive, the growing relationship and
exchanges of visitation is extremely gratifying. Brothers are becoming more
and more relaxed with one another and feel they are all brothers as it
should be. I’m sure that individuals like Past Grand Masters, William H.
Upton and George R. Bordewick of the Washington Jurisdiction and Past Grand
Masters James E. Chase and Jimmy Simmons, who have left us, as well as
others, are smiling, to look upon such a positive change within the Masonic
community and the world. We must continue to move forward in this vein, and
remember, We Do It Because Its The Right Thing To DO.
Also noteworthy, Is that the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington has been
requested and have consented to conduct the Open Air Degree at the Masonic
Park, at Granite Falls. Grand Lecturer Jesse P. Miller has been assigned
coordinator for this event which is scheduled to occur on August 7, 1993.
Along with my wife and many of the elected and appointed Grand Lodge
Officers, I had the pleasure of attending a portion of the 135th Annual
Communication for the Grand Lodge of Washington, F. & A.M. We were received
and treated royally. The communication was held in Wenatchee, Washington.
The then Deputy Grand Master, George Leslie, was elected to the office of
Most Worshipful Grand Master. Due to other obligations, he is unable to be
with us today. However he did send his Junior Grand Warden as his
representative.
Our relationship with our sister jurisdiction on our southern boarder
continues to be an enjoyable one. Accompanied by the Deputy Grand Master and
Grand Secretary I attended the 32nd Annual Communication for the Prince Hall
Grand Lodge F. & A.M., of Oregon, held in Boise, Idaho. Again we were
treated royally; my personal thanks to M.W. Grand Master Hampton W. Wright
and the members of his staff for their hospitality. In as much as the Prince
Hall Grand Lodge of Oregon and the Grand Lodge of Idaho have an agreement
between their Jurisdictions for Right of Visitation, we had the distinct
honor of sitting with the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Jurisdiction
of Idaho, along with Past Grand Masters and members of his craft Another
historical event.
- CONCLUSION -
In my message last year I stated that those of us who were elected as heads
of our organizations must remember that leadership is an action, not a
position. That we must plan activities for our lodges, focusing on the
principles and goals of freemasonry. I believe that some of you heard and
understood, and it is reflected in the success of your lodges.
Again we can see that progress has been made this past year, yet we can also
see that much more remains to be accomplished. We have demonstrated what can
be accomplished when just a few are working in harmony. Can you imagine what
we could accomplish if all were working in harmony.
We can easily see and many of us are experiencing the impact from the social
diseases that are destroying our communities. The increasing numbers of the
homeless, drugs and related activities, youth gangs and related crime,
teenage pregnancy and prostitution to name a few.
The Bee-Hive speaks of industry, and suggest the practice of that virtue to
all created beings, from the highest seraph in heaven to the lowest reptile
of the dust. It teaches us that, as we are rational and intelligent beings,
we should be industrious, never sitting down contented while our
follow-creatures around us are in want, especially when it is in our power
to relieve them.
A freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to his God through his faith
and religious practice; and then, without detriment to his family and those
dependent on him to his neighbor through charity and service. Freemasons
believe that the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth represent a
way of achieving higher standards in life. I challenge you to ask yourself
the question and answer honestly, Are You A Freemason?
Let us rededicate ourselves to the principles and teaching of freemasonry,
through friendship, morality, and brotherly love. Let us make a serious
commitment to building our organization and being providers of services to
our communities. Remembering that great discoveries and improvements involve
the cooperation of many minds.
To aid us in our deliberations let us remember the two following guides:
“Lord, grant me the strength to change those things I can, the serenity to
accept those things I cannot, and the wisdom to know the difference
(Serenity Prayer); and “in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct
thy path (Proverb 3:6).
- RECOMMENDATIONS -
Recommendation #1 Lodges that have not paid the
required Education Assessment be granted extensions not later than March 30,
1993.
Recommendation #2 Lodges that have not paid the
Education Assessment by the newly established deadline will not be permitted
to vote at our next Annual Communication.
Recommendation #3 That Past Grand Master F.
Benjamin Davis, who served this jurisdiction as Most Worshipful Grand
Master, from the period 1951 - 1952, be granted life-Membership.
Recommendation #4 The report and recommendations
coming from the committee on life-Membership be adopted and those brothers
recommended be granted life-Membership.
Recommendation #5 That the following four (4) U.D.
Lodges be chartered at this 89th Annual Communication: Genesis Lodge U.D.,
Japan; Haile Selassie Lodge U.D., Germany; Booker T. Washington Lodge U.D.,
Germany and Unity Lodge U.D., Germany.
Fraternally Submitted,
Daniel L. Lunsford
M.W. Grand Master
F. & A. M., Washington and Jurisdiction
