2023’s Lessons Lead to 2024 Wins
Our Abilities to Come Together to Best Work, Agree, and Care to Make a Better Future.
By: Steve Almager
Deputy Grand Master
![Steven Almager Deputy Grand Master](https://nmfreemason.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/02_Almager-683x1024.jpg)
Wow, what a whirlwind year this has been. All of the duties are at times overwhelming. But I would not have it any other way. Being able to serve each and every one of you is an honor and a pleasure.
New Mexico Freemasonry is doing well. To think, four years ago, we were completely shut down, and little, if any, work was being done. The Leads for information in the last year have picked up, and I hope that each and every one of the potential candidates is being spoken with. The current Leads system is not the best, but it is what we have to work with. Grandview will soon take over this and will provide us with some accountability.
Throughout my travels I have had the opportunity to visit with many of you. I have listened and heard your ideas and concerns. I can assure you that we are working to include all of them. Continued input is essential to all of our success.
In September of 2023, we made a switch to Grandview from Groupable. I am pleased to say that the transition has been better than expected. This is accredited to the Brethren who are using the system that the Grand Lodge has put in place. While we are not 100% sure of our users, our numbers are better than those of the previous system. I have heard the good and the bad about Grandview and it always seems the good out ways the bad. We still have a way to go, but I am certain with your help, we will make this an enormous success.
In November 2023, I was elected President of the Binational Border Conference. This year’s conference will be held in Las Cruces, NM in November. This will allow New Mexico Freemasonry to shine and show our Brothers from the South what we have to offer and that we are willing to help them in any manner possible. At the first Conference, we had many countries and states represented. Ideas, thoughts, and Fellowship flowed abundantly. I urge each of you, to make plans to attend the Conference in Las Cruces.
Brethren, here are our numbers for 2023:
Degree – Initiated – EA | 88 |
Degree – Passed – FC | 49 |
Degree – Raised – MM | 32 |
Deceased | 79 |
SNPD | 84 |
While the numbers from EA to FC (57%), I like to look at the numbers from FC to MM (65%). The EA degree is our last line of defense. It is almost impossible to prepare a petitioner for the experience of the EA degree. This is when we will naturally lose the most candidates.
The numbers we really need to be looking at and producing a solution for are the SNPD’s. These are our Brothers who have completed the degrees and, for one reason or another, no longer come to Lodge. I believe these numbers can be solved, by providing an experience when you go to Lodge. No more reading the minutes, paying bills, and then closing. Why would anyone leave the comforts of their homes to come to that?? Bring in speakers, always provide education, and allow Brothers to interact on topics of discussion. Brothers, you know these men that are not coming back to Lodge. Reach out to each of them and see why. Some of our members can no longer drive at night. We should be providing them with transportation if needed. Look after and cherish each of your Brothers, this is one of your three Jewels, Brotherly Love.
I hope this message serves as a beacon of leadership, urging all members to embody the principle that we are indeed our brother’s keeper. This is an invitation to actively participate in the fraternity’s growth, to innovate, and to care for one another with renewed commitment.
GrandView
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