I was Initiated June 1, 1954. Dated June 3, 2014
Dear Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren, Walnut Tree Lodge 5533.
Greetings and Salutations,
I would truly love to be with you all for the June meeting. Regrettably it was not to be, but I would have been pleased to declare to my Brethren that I was initiated in Walnut Tree Lodge June 1, 1954. That in itself gives me great pleasure and satisfaction that I have been blessed with my membership in this special Lodge. I want to encourage all my brethren to stay with it, to go the course. There are many distractions and temptations for Masons to say:
- I don’t think I’ll bother any more.
- I’ve been going there long enough.
- I don’t like the new members we’re getting.
- I don’t like some of the members we have.
- My wife wants me to stay at home. (Imagine this last one with only 4 meetings a year!)
Masonry is too significant and too rich today and with the heritage of the past, I say stay with this or Masonry, wherever you are wherever you may go. I’m very proud to say to Brethren anywhere, I remain faithful to my Mother Lodge.
I have satisfaction in the honours I have received. I’m honoured by being a 33 Degree Mason but I want you to know Walnut Tree Lodge has been the foundation and inspiration for all I do and have done in Masonry.
I thank you Walnut Tree Lodge, my father George Winstanley, and my “adopted” uncle Jeff Jefferies for placing their trust in me by applying their signatures to my petition to join you.
Thank you Walnut Tree Lodge, may the Great Architect of the Universe bless you in all you do.
Finally be faithful to your trusts and to the gift you received on becoming a Freemason. Support and be strong for our Lodge.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Gerald Winstanley.
