FROM THE EAST - SEPTEMBER

We continue to be focused on relocation efforts. Unfortunately we cannot announce concrete plans but that does not mean we don’t have several members working diligently behind the scenes. Although we have had several, positive discussions, we are waiting on the formal vote from the Lodge where we hope to temporarily relocate before any formal announcement. And we are working through other, necessary procedural items concerning the potential impact on our stated meeting time. Once we get these final answers we will be in a position to move forward. We will be sending out a separate, formal communication later this week confirming our new location, as well as updating everyone as to our future dates for our next stated meeting, formal officer’s meeting as well as floor work.

We will not have a stated meeting in September on our normal night, the first Thursday of the month. We had discussed a visitation on that night to the stated meeting of the Lodge to where we plan to relocate. At this time, we will not go forward with that visitation as they will likely be finalizing approval for Hillcrest’s move to their facility. I would like to see them in a situation where they can openly and honestly discuss the situation and that probably would be best served without a large contingent of Hillcrest members in attendance.

This has been a long and difficult process and I want to thank the many Hillcrest members who have expended their time and energy. This effort was started quite some time ago. From the sale of the building to the physical move of our items to temporary storage, I do not know what we would have done without this help.

Our goals now are to get in our temporary home, which again should be formally announced later this week, and continue our work. We have seen interest in Masonry from several young men. We have also been involved in some unfortunate situations with the recent passing of some of our members. We cannot, and will not, let the relocation issue alter our commitment to live up to our Masonic duties. Rest assured we will do everything in our power to continue to see Hillcrest continue as a functioning Lodge with as little disruption as possible. Once we see the dust clear and have a chance to catch our breath we can again focus on our long-term plans.

I know moving into a new location will be difficult. No matter how long we are there we will have to work through a period of adjustment. But with every new challenge comes new opportunities.

So as we continue to move through this process, I would hope everyone would feel free to contact us with any questions, concerns or advice. The Lodge’s phone number remains the same and you should always feel free to contact me personally. Over the coming weeks and months we will try to keep everyone up-to-date and you can also look for information at our website at www.dallasfreemasonry.org.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
Gregg Yates, Worshipful Master