Happy Halloween!
Brethren,
Coming up on November 10th is our charity party at the Zal Gaz Grotto in support of the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor (CSC).
We're taught in the Entered Apprentice degree that all good Masons strive to reach the starry-decked heaven by the aid of the symbolism of the three principal rounds of Jacob's Ladder: Faith, hope, and charity. It is mentioned that the:
"...greatest of these is Charity, for Faith may be lost in sight, Hope may end in fruition, but charity extends beyond the grave..."
Charity is also mentioned in the three principal tenets of Freemasonry: Brotherly love, relief, and truth. Relief here does not just mean relief from poverty, or financial need. One of the things that CSC provides our community is relief. Relief for cancer patients to have a temporary reprieve from the difficulty of their journey. Relief for family members to find understanding and fellowship among others who know their pain and share their grief.
We'll be gathering as a craft to support this great charity and do what we can to help this organization do the good work that they do for our community and for our brothers. Charity too, does not just mean financial giving, though that's a welcome component too. Volunteering to help, stepping up with some elbow grease and doing what we can helps in every way. Not only do we have an opportunity to help a worthy cause, but to be active and vital in supporting our community, and the visibility doesn't hurt either.
During the EA degree the candidate is given a first-hand feeling of being destitute. Penniless and for all intents and purposes, alone, he's asked to make worthy donation for posterity, to be:
"...laid up among the records in the archives of this Lodge as memento that you were herein made a Mason."
A shot at posterity--dashed. It may be a long time since you felt that feeling, asked to contribute, and subsequently being asked if you are entirely destitute. I encourage you to think about the position you were in, nearly naked, and how far from that state you are now. I often reflect on that moment, as I'm truly blessed in this life and I need to remember to give back.
Let's dig deep into that feeling, to power us to come to the party, ready to contribute! Let's make it another successful fund raising event this November 10th! There will be live music (with cover charge towards charity), food and drink available for purchase from the Zal Gaz Grotto, as well as 50/50 raffle and silent auction. And of course, my favorite, a box to drop checks in. If you aren't able to make it, you can still contribute via gofundme!
Hope to see you there! We can't do this without you!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Steven Moazami
Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - See our Calendar for details
Nov 7 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
Nov 8 - Discussion Group:Brotherhood of Literature | Bro. Paul’s House
Nov 10 - Charity Fundraiser | Zal Gaz Grotto Club
Nov 28 - Special Communication [MM] | Saline Lodge
Dec 5 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
Dec 15 - Installation of Officers for 2019 | South Lyon Masonic Lodge
