Companions,
I want to begin by reflecting on our previous meeting, which was an absolute pleasure to preside over. It was highly efficient, we opened well, and the decorum was excellent—striking that perfect balance of being fun, yet appropriately serious. We also shared a great period of education. None of this would be possible without all of you loving our York Rite and possessing a genuine desire to educate and improve yourselves.
Right now, the Lubbock York Rite is growing and changing in many incredibly positive ways. In York Rite Masonry, we are taught that our journey is one of continuous discovery and refinement. Just as the ancient craftsmen labored tirelessly in the secret vault to preserve the foundational truths of our Craft, we too must labor to preserve, protect, and improve our own bodies. Change is the necessary tool that allows us to secure our future.
To that end, we have made some important structural decisions. We have raised the dues across all three bodies, a crucial step that will ensure our long-term stability. We are also rigorously vetting our processes for operating the building and paying our bills to guarantee responsible stewardship of our resources.
Most importantly, we are focusing heavily on the Masonic work itself. We have held schools of instruction to sharpen our ritual skills, and we are making absolutely sure we progress our new candidates through their degrees with deep, meaningful education—not just herding them through like cattle. As we are taught, “knowledge is attained through degrees,” and we owe it to our new Companions to provide them with that true light and understanding.
I am truly humbled to have been elected as your Thrice Illustrious Master this year. While our Masonic year will be drawing to a close soon, I have no doubt that our growth will continue if we all stay committed to this path.
Thank you each for your dedication, your hard work, and for treating our Convocations with the reverence and purpose they deserve, rather than just treating them as a place to hang out. I look forward to finishing this year strong with all of you.
Fraternally,
James A. Clark
Thrice Illustrious Master
Vernon I. Bartlett Council No. 183