Dear Faithful Companion,

This past week marked a long-awaited milestone: the chance to attend a Lodge meeting in Brampton. My visit to Ionic Lodge No. 229 for their official visit was nothing short of a remarkable evening—an experience I had looked forward to since relocating here. It has been quite some time since I’ve had the opportunity to make a fraternal visit to any Lodge, and settling into our new surroundings hasn’t afforded me much opportunity until now. It was with great joy, however, that I finally found myself among brethren, dusting off my regalia for an evening of fellowship and meaningful work.

Donning the apron once more brought a profound sense of joy—a tangible reminder of the values it represents. Joining the brethren on the level, sharing in their company and participating in the evening’s labors, was both humbling and invigorating. The Lodge room resonated with camaraderie, respect, and purpose—a shared commitment to something greater than ourselves.

The work conducted by Ionic Lodge that evening was impressive. It was evident that the brethren had practiced diligently, and for all in attendance, it was inspiring to witness such high-quality Masonic work. The Worshipful Master’s warm welcome set the tone for the evening, and the entire experience reaffirmed why I hold my connection to the fraternity in such high esteem. It’s not merely the rituals or traditions that inspire me; it’s the unspoken bond of brotherhood that transcends generations and borders.

Over the years, work commitments have made it challenging to remain as actively involved in the Craft as I would like. However, this visit reawakened my determination to reconnect and contribute more deeply to the fraternity. In the coming months, I plan to visit other Lodges in the area, hoping to find a new Masonic home closer to where we live. Of course, I will remain a member of my mother Lodge in Hamilton, staying connected with my brethren there and attending meetings when possible. Yet, to fully immerse myself in the Craft again, as I aspire to, I need to find an affiliation Lodge closer to home.

Being part of the fraternity has always been a cornerstone of my personal growth. It has shaped my character, encouraged me to refine my thoughts, and challenged me to align my actions with our shared principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth. These virtues guide me not only as a Freemason but as a man striving for continuous self-improvement.

Harry S. Truman once said, “We must create a future for our fraternity by living up to the highest teachings of the past.” This profound truth underscores the work we are called to do—not only to preserve the rich traditions of Masonry but to embody them in our daily lives. Each Lodge meeting serves as a reminder of the responsibility we carry—not only to each other but to the generations yet to come.

The hospitality of the brethren at Ionic Lodge was so splendid that I eagerly anticipate returning next month to share another evening with them. There is something truly invigorating about gathering with Masons for an evening of fellowship and work—a moment where time seems to pause, and the lessons of the Craft come alive.

Verbum Ultimum: Let the level remind us that, regardless of station, we all stand as equals in the work of building a brighter future—one stone, one lesson, one brother at a time. The act of placing the apron across my waist once more was a powerful reminder that the tools of Masonry still have much work to do in shaping the man I strive to be.

Until next we meet, with ink as my witness and virtue as my guide.
JCB