Originally I was going to do another Ritual History article his month but in preparation for the new Masonic Year, I realized that there are 7 new, first time masters in the Oswego District so I thought that I would provide them with some information that they might find helpful. First, a Master Elect cannot be installed unless he has received the Secrets of the Chair which they should all have by the time they reads this.
Second, Norm Kruth and I are here as a resource to help you with your Ritual any way we can. We try to be supportive but not intrusive. The quality of ritual in this district is quite good but Masons always strive for that elusive goal of perfection. As with all things, Norm and I are best able to help in the early stages, practices and such, so keep us in mind. The most frequent request we get is for men to fill parts and we can do that.
Some planning items, I just got my initial marching orders from the Grand Lecturer today and we will be running at least 4 classes in the coming year, more to follow on that. Also, its not too early to start thinking about the Grand Lecturer's convention. If you can get all your officers to attend, you can win a Potts Award and receive it on the floor of Grand Lodge next May.
Finally, something near and dear to my heart is the Child ID program. This year the Oswego District will be manning the State Fair booth on Thursday, September 2nd. If you come and spend a couple of hours helping out, you get a free ticket to the Fair and when you hear the kind words from the parents, which you will, it makes you feel like a million. I enjoy visiting so I hope to see many of you in the coming year.