Dear Brothers,

This winter I spent a lot of time studying for degrees and reading books about the past and the present of our fraternity. It is obvious that our country currently experiences a revived search for value among people of all ages. Lodges all over Connecticut and the US receive petitions and many new brothers are raised each month. Many of Brainard’s older members belong to a generation with incredible dedication, discipline and high standards of moral value. It is my opinion that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for new and experienced brothers of Brainard Lodge #102 to meet and fraternally work with each other. Share the passion of Masonry among each other by a story, lecture or some socializing. If you haven’t been to lodge in years, make an effort and come to one of our numerous meetings. Check our calendar on line or the trestle board. We raised in April our newest Master Masons – Bro. Patrick Gerard Trainor and Bro. Craig Rory Merriman. Brother Patrick has stepped up to be an officer and already has contributed his time and energy on numerous occasions. Congratulations! Our Junior and Senior Warden will have their step up degrees from the East during the next EA and FC degree. I encourage all members but especially Past Masters to come and visit. We all remember the first time in the East during a degree and it is a moment where the support of a strong sideline means a lot to the Master. In mid June this year, 8 of us will travel to Hannover / Germany for an official reciprocal visit of the “Friedrich Zum Weissen Pferde #19” lodge and to participate in the biggest Masonic ritual in Germany – the “Johannisfest” as well as some degree work and a table lodge. If any brother is interested, there is still an opportunity to join us.

On May 11th we will host the home coming of one of our members, Illustrious Brother David McDonough with music, dinner and good company. Also on our agenda are a Care & Share breakfast on Sat. June 5th, and our traditional Steak dinner on June 8th. It is obvious that Brainard Lodge #102 is on the right path and I’m delighted to see the passion in my officer’s eyes when they work during degrees and put meaning into every sign, syllable and word they use. Our ritual is precise, meaningful and inspirational and recognized beyond the 8th district! Plenty of opportunities arise to meet, act and part on the level.

Fraternally,

Axel Mahlke

Worshipful Master