Greetings
To God be the glory,
We are now embarking on another year of freemasonry, 109 years under the cloak of Garden City Lodge #59 Free and Accepted Masons of Chicago, Illinois
Garden City is deeply rooted in the annals of Masonic history. Through the test of time we have maintained our pride,character, and tradition. Since October 11, 1900 this lodge has laid the foundation for many prominant members of the community and fraternity.
Many men have stood in this place that I have so humbly accepted. For this I thank each and every one of you that share the confidence in me to perform the tasks of this honor you have given me.
Worshipful means "entitled to honor or respect on account of character or rank; as an honorific title for persons of distinguished rank or importance;" Master from the latin "magister." implies that he who possesses this title has skill beyond his fellows. Worshipful Master to me is more than just a title, it is an accolade,a commitment, a responsibility, and a priveledge. I pray that I can live up to your expectations. To the best of my ability I will endeavor to fulfill the duties of this office and carry on the tradition and spirit that has kept Garden City Lodge #59 cemented in the world of fremasonry. To achieve this task I will implore all of your assistance. No one man can be ruler, it takes a collective effort. To make us stronger we must stand united. I challenge you to make that commitment.
Our obligations have given us more than just an emblem to wear, it has given us a position in our community and abroad to make those who need examples to follow and find direction through our demeanor, actions, words and wisdom. Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth are our basic tenets. To be a better man and mason this basic package is necessary. If we can make these tree principles paramount in our lives and within our doors we will remain united in strength.
I ask for your support, your love, and your prayers. To suport is not only financial, it comes from time, words, prayers, thoughts, and loyalty. It takes a want and a need to make what we have as brothers better.
I challenge each member of Garden City Lodge #59 to reach out, to support, to help, aid, and assist, to, pray, to stand as men amongst men, to be the plumbline in the midst of the people, and be examples of what people expect of and from Masons.
Fraternally,
Maurice L. Hatter Sr.
Worshipful Master 2009