Librarian's Report for November 16

Gabby Cooper Librarian

A Tribute

Since tonight is Fraternal Night, I would like to read a tribute in appreciation of all that they do to support us.

Women are no part of the Masonic Order. But a woman's heart does beat responsively to the same inspiration that prompts a man to noble deeds, and out of this desire to serve in a like manner and the human desire for fraternal fellowship came the banding together of women of Masonic relationship as The Order Of The Eastern Star.  

The history of Masonry dates back to the time before the Christian era. In the middle of the seventeenth century, a group of skilled architects band themselves together for the Protection of their craft and the prosperity of their skills. They were the first "Master Masons," creators of the magnificent edifices of the Medieval Period of cathedral building in Europe. They worked under their own government, traveling from place to place as work required.  

Some years later, in 1702 a London, England lodge decided to open the doors of Masonry to men unskilled in architecture. As the demand for operative skill decreased, the lofty moral principles, noble ideals and manly virtues of those who were already members, attracted to this society, men of prominence in church and state, whose higher character and fine attainments had made them distinguished. This is the origin of Freemasonry, as we know it today.  

A writer of authority on the subject of masonry tells us that the great secret of this Order is that it makes men aware of the divinity within them. It is impossible to be a good Mason without being a good man.   

Thank you for coming. We want to greet you after the meeting and we have a special presentation for each of you.

Gabby Cooper Librarian