Many words could be used to describe this years Grand Lodge assembly...anti-climactic, harmonious, and several others come to mind. But, when it was all said and done I think that the word of the day was "victorious". Last year's GL meeting was filled with a victory of sorts. Many of us felt that with the PH resolution being passed that NC Freemasonry could once again "get back" to business at hand...supporting our noble charities, and spreading brotherly love and affection wherever we could. But, in all honesty many NC Masons didn't really feel the impact of what had truly happenned with that historic vote.....until now!
Going into the Meeting Hall, seeing the PH Brothers gathered among many Brethern we knew, and watching the company of 63 march into open Lodge showed us that it really had happenned. Hearing the splendid oration of a young character named Prince Hall, and finally being a part of history itself as PHGM Toby Fitch led us in that stirring lil hymn "This lil light of mine" led to an ovation that still rings with most who were there.
MWGM Dan Rice welcomes PHMWGM Toby Fitch to the podium.
A young orator dressed in period gives the Masonic history of Prince Hall.
MWGM Rice welcomes PHMWGM Fitch to the rostrum for his charge to NC Masons.
Once MWGM Rice got down to business, we learned that charity and what we do as Masons have had, is having, and will continue to have a great effect on people all over NC. There were no less than 5 people brought to stage, who gave testimony as to the way and manner in which Masonic charity had greatly effected their own lives. Two Montfort Awards were given by MW Rice....each to an individual who had gone far and above what was expected of them in service of our Masonic Home at Oxford. We found out that there were two "Little Charles's" who made their home at Oxford....and each were giving back to the home in their own special way. We listened as a young lady described how the MHCO kept her on the path toward a good productive life, and as how the Rainbow Girls was helping another help people all over NC. Yes, NC Masons were back to business as usual....helping those in need, and giving to those less fortunate.
MWGM Rice introduces a young lady from The MHCO.
One of the Montfort Medal recepients.
Brother Eddie Dickerson(Lil Charles) shares his experiences at the MHCO.
MWGM Rice recieves his official portrait.
Several Lodges present MWGM Rice with funds to the Masonic charities.
Brother Jimmy Hicks of St. Johns Lodge #3 is this years appointee to the Grand Line.
RWGS Walt Clapp accepts his election as Grand Secretary and shares a laugh with MWGM Rice over the pronunciation of his last name!!!
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