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Grand Officers as follows:

Aubrey L. Burbank, M. W. Grand Master

John M. Littlefield, R. W. Deputy Grand Master

B. Glen McGee R. W. Senior Grand Warden

Norman W. Lindquist, R. W. Junior Grand Warden

H. Norton Maxfield R. W. Grand Treasurer

Earle D. Webster, R. W. Grand Secretary

Wallace H. Campbell, R. W. D. D. G. M., 1st Dist.

Joseph C. Ingalls, R. W. D. D. G. M., 2nd Dist.

Clifford H. West, R. W. D. D. G. M., 3rd Dist.

Donald L. Stickney, R. W. D. D. G. M., 5th Dist.

Albert W. Hoffses, R. W. D. D. G. M., 7th Dist.

L. Fair Elwell, R. W. D. D. G. M.,8th Dist.

David Duncan, Sr., R. W. D. D. G. M.,9th Dist.

Leon P. Munro, R. W. D. D. G. M., 10th Dist.

Francis E. Branch,R. W. D. D. G. M., 12th Dist.

Allan P. Robinson, R. W. D. D. G. M.,13th Dist.

Nathaniel A. Gilpatrick, R. W. D. D. G. M., 14th Dist.

Harold T. Ricker, R. W. D. D. G. M.,15th Dist.

Paul Wadsworth, R. W. D. D. G. M.,16th Dist.

M. Donald Gardner, R. W. D. D. G. M., 17th Dist.

Willis H. Webber, R. W. D. D. G. M., 18th Dist.

Kenneth M. Ritchie, R. W. D. D. G. M., 19th Dist.

William H. Gruber, R. W. D. D. G. M., 20th Dist.

Lester C. Gray, R. W. D. D. G. M., 21st Dist.

Kilborn H. Merrill, R. W. D. D. G. M., 22nd Dist.

John M. Halfyard, R. W. D. D. G. M.,23rd Dist.

L. Jackman Sleeper, R. W. D. D. G. M., 24th Dist.

Raymond M. Rideout, R. W. Grand Lecturer

P.G.M. Rev. David L. Wilson, LHD., W. Grand Chaplain

Rev. Ernest Heywood, W. Grand Chaplain

Rev. Percy Cotton, W. Grand Chaplain

Warren Moses, W. Grand Chaplain

Rev. Milton McGorrill, W. Grand Chaplain

Douglas R. Spaulding, W. Grand Senior Deacon

Roland W. Cornish, W. Grand Junior Deacon

Donald O. Worcester W. Grand Steward

Malcolm R. Holts, W. Grand Steward

Richard C. Cookson, W. Grand Sword Bearer

Ernest S. Webber, W. Grand Standard Bearer

Alpheus G. Dyer, W. Grand Pursuivant

Walter F. Townsend, W. Grand Pursuivant

Fred Lincoln Hill, Bro. Grand Organist

Frederick C. Davis, Bro. Grand Organist

Wilfrid Tremblay, Bro. Grand Organist

Henry Doherty, Bro. Grand Tyler

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The following Permanent Members:

M. W. Edward W. Wheeler	P.G.M.
M. W. David L. Wilson	P.G.M.
M. W. Clark D. Chapman	P.G.M.
M. W. Henry R. Gillis	P.G.M.
M. W. George F. Giddings	P.G.M.
M. W. Charles E. Crossland	P.G.M.
M. W. Carroll W. Keene	P.G.M.
M. W. Ervin E. J. Lander	P.G.M.
M. W. Benjamin W. Ela	P.G.M.
M. W. Paul L. Powers	P.G.M.
M. W. Aubrey L. Burbank	P.G.M.
M. W. Ralph J. Pollard (Honorary)	P.G.M.
R. W. Lewman B. Soper	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Alvoid E. Cushman	P.S.G.W..
R. W. Arthur H. Lander	P.S.G.W.
R. W. William A. Levensalor	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Harold L. Gerrish	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Clyde French	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Elmer P. Smart	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Frank L. Milan	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Judson P. Lord	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Lewis T. Brown	P.S.G.W.
R. W. George R. Caswell	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Everett S. Higgins	P.S.G.W.
R. W. Royal L. Cleaves	P.S.G.W.
R. W. George W. Haskell	P.J.G.W.
R. W. Harry S. Grindall	P.J.G.W
R. W. Edward H. Britton	P.J.G.W
R. W. Elbert G. Moulton	P.J.G.W
R. W. Arthur W. Stockbridge	P.J.G.W
R. W. Earle D. Webster	P.J.G.W
R. W. James A. Sanker	P.J.G.W
R. W. Wesley L. Oxton	P.J.G.W
R. W. Merton E. Leech	P.J.G.W
R. W. Fred J. Lowell	P.J.G.W
R. W. Clifford H. M. Perry	P.J.G.W
R. W. Merrill R. Kittredge	P.J.G.W
R. W. Harold W. Blaisdell	P.J.G.W
R. W. Norman W. Lindquist	P.J.G.W

And the following Grand Representatives:

Alabama— Lewman B. Soper

Arizona — Arthur W. Stockbridge

Arkansas — Clarence D. Hackney

British Columbia — Everett S. Higgins

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California — Benjamin W. Ela

Costa Rica — Roland W.. Cornish

Connecticut Ervin E. J. Lander

District of Columbia — Arthur H. Lander

England — Alvoid E. Cushman

Florida— Merton E. Leech

France, National Grand Lodge — Austin A. Alden

Georgia- William A. Levensalor

Iceland — Royal L. Cleaves

Idaho — Frank L. Milan

Indiana—H. Norton Maxfield

Ireland — Norman W. Lindquist

Kansas— Raymond M. Rideout

Louisiana — Earle D. Webster

Manitoba — George R. Caswell

Massachusetts— David L. Wilson

Michigan — Benjamin W. Ela

Missouri — Edward H. Britton

Montana — Harold L. Gerrish

Nebraska — Jambs A. Sanker

New Hampshire — Paul L. Powers

New Jersey — Aubrey L. Burbank

New South Wales— Merrill r. Kittredge

New York — Edward W. Wheeler

North Carolina — George W. Haskell

North Dakota — Fred J. Lowell

Ohio — Nathaniel A. Gilpatrick

Oklahoma — Clyde French

Panama — John J. Faas

Peru — Albert W. Hoffses

Philippine Islands — Elmer P. Smart

Prince Edward Island — Alpheus G. Dyer

Porto Rico — Norris C. Estabrook

Quebec — Carroll W. Keene

Queensland—Harold W. Blaisdell

Rhode Island — Clark D. Chapman

Scotland — George F. Giddings

South Australia — Lewis T. Brown

South Carolina — Willis H. Webber

South Dakota — Elbert G. Moulton

Sweden—Ralph J. Pollard

Tasmania — M. Donald Gardner

Tennessee — Harry S. Grindall

Texas—John M. Littlefield

Utah — B. Glen McGee

Vermont — Charles E. Crossland

Victoria — Alfred L. Holbrook

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Virginia — Henry R. Gillis

Washington — Judson P. Lord

Western Australia — Wesley L. Oxton

Wisconsin — Clifford H. M. Perry

Lodges represented, 188; Not represented, 20; Number of Representatives, 303; Grand Officers, 42; Permanent Members, 36; Representatives, 33.

Lodges represented 188; Votes 564; Grand Officers, 42; Permanent Members. 36; Total 642.

Fraternally submitted,

George P. Jackson,
John Vacca,
Merrill W. Sweetser,
Committee

The Grand Master then read his

ANNUAL ADDRESS

To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Maine:

Brethren:

By the grace and divine favor of the Supreme Architect of the Universe, we are permitted to meet here once again as free men and as Freemasons, in this our One Hundred Thirty-eighth Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge. May we be guided by that same Divine Light in our deliberations today, and continue ever in His favor.

One year ago, you placed in my hands the " potent emblem of authority " within this Grand Jurisdiction, and, in accordance with the custom which has now become nearly equivalent to law, I submit to you an account of my stewardship and such other matters as are deemed to be of interest to you.

As we engage in the deliberations of this Annual Communication, may you be mindful that this is your Grand Lodge, and thus feel free to express your opinions on any and all matters which may concern the welfare of the Fraternity.

welcome.

To each of you, as members and guests of this Grand Lodge, I extend a most cordial welcome. May our combined

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efforts prove fruitful, as, together, we labor in the vineyards of Masonry.

We are privileged in having with us many distinguished guests from other Grand Jurisdictions. We warmly welcome you to our Grand Lodge and to our State, hoping that we may make your stay with us as pleasant as that which we have enjoyed in your respective jurisdictions. Our visitations to sister jurisdictions stand out as among our warmest recollections.

The time element is such, at a Grand Lodge Communication, that we are constantly on guard lest we over-run our schedule. While this annual event provides an excellent opportunity for a Grand Master to address the brethren, it is my personal opinion that such an address should be more in the nature of a report than an actual address. The Grand Master spends the greater part of twelve months traveling about the Grand Jurisdiction, and is thereby afforded the opportunity to address the brethren and to expound upon his presumptive repertoire of Masonic wisdom. I shall therefore endeavor, through the medium of this so-called address, to confine myself to such matters as I consider pertinent at this time, and of greatest interest to the Craft.

Necrology.

Within the course of a Masonic year, losses are inevitable, and it is with sincere regret and deep emotion that we announce that nine hundred and fifteen of our beloved brethren have answered the call of the Supreme Architect during the past twelve months.

While our Grand Lodge line was not broken, we have, however, suffered the loss of four Permanent Members, including one Past Grand Master.

Most Worshipful Brother Granville Chase Gray, our sixty-fourth Grand Master, passed to the Celestial Lodge above, after a brief illness, his death occurring at the Eastern Maine General Hospital at Bangor, on September 2, 1956. No loss has been felt more deeply for a great many years by so many people of all walks of life. Most Worshipful Brother Gray distinguished himself in every field of endeavor in which

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he was engaged, by his sincerity, fidelity to truth and justice, and genuine goodness. He was never so occupied as to neglect or reject the plea of the helpless or the needy. His first concern was always for others above himself and his family above all.

Funeral services were held, in the presence of a host of friends and associates, at the Brewer Methodist Church, on Wednesday, September 5, 1956, with the Rev. Brother E. Charles Dartnell, pastor of the Church, and the Rev. William R. Riddiough of Machias Congregational Church officiating. Members of the Maine State Bar Association, and distinguished Masons served as honorary bearers. Com-mital services were conducted by officers of St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 83, of Bangor, together with military rites. Several Past Grand Masters and Permanent Members were in attendance, with the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge being represented by your Grand Master. No man or Mason in this Grand Jurisdiction commanded greater respect and love than did Most Worshipful Brother Gray, and words are inadequate to express the loss as felt by this Grand Lodge.

The Grand Lodge suffered another great loss in the death of our venerable and Right Worshipful Brother Convers Edward Leach, Grand Secretary Emeritus, to which office he had been elected only five days before. Right Worshipful Brother Leach passed into the care and keeping of the Supreme Architect, on Sunday, May 6, 1956, only three days after the close of our last Annual Communication. Many of you will recall that he was in critical condition at a Portland Hospital at the time of that Annual Communication. He was among the oldest office-holders of any Masonic Jurisdiction throughout the country, both in age and years of service, being nearly 90 years of age, and having served as a Grand Lodge Officer since 1901, and as Grand Secretary from 1931 to 1956.

Active in religious life as well as civic and Masonic life, Right Worshipful Brother Leach was looked upon by all his fellowmen as a leader among men. As one of the great pillars of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction, his passing is an irreparable loss to Maine Masonry.

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Funeral services, attended by a large body of Masons, civic leaders and friends, were held at the Woodfords Congregational Church, of which he was a member, on Tuesday, May 8, 1956, with the Rev. and Most Worshipful Brother David L. Wilson officiating, assisted by the Rev. J. Edward Elliott, Associate Minister of Woodfords Congregational Church. The Grand Lodge was represented by your Grand Master together with several Past Grand Masters.

Right Worshipful Brother Daniel G. Chaplin, Past Junior Grand Warden, died at his home in Cornish, on Monday, December 3, 1956. While Right Worshipful Brother Chaplin's passing will be deeply felt by this entire Grand Jurisdiction, his absence from our ranks will be most deeply felt by the brethren of the eighteenth and surrounding districts where his ritualistic ability brought him constantly before the Craft.

Funeral services were held at the Cornish Methodist Church on Wednesday, December 5, 1956, with the Rev. Brother M. Gerry Plummer, Grand Chaplain, officiating. Masonic services were conducted by Greenleaf Lodge, No. 117, with Right Worshipful Brother A. Stewart Varney officiating. The Grand Lodge was represented by our Grand Secretary and several present and past Grand Officers. It is with profound regret that we note the passing of this distinguished Masonic scholar.

On February 3, 1957, this Grand Lodge was saddened by the news of the passing of Past Junior Grand Warden, Right Worshipful Brother Harry E. Rowe, whose death occurred at Ellsworth on the above date, following many weeks of lingering illness. Right Worshipful Brother Rowe had long been a faithful and familiar figure in Grand Lodge circles, having served on several committees from time to time, and having been a member of the Committee on Grievances and Appeals for several years.

Your Grand Master and several Grand Officers and Permanent Members were in attendance at the funeral which was held at Ellsworth on Tuesday, February 5, 1957, with the Rev. Edward A. Smith of the First Unitarian Church as officiating clergyman.

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As we mourn the loss of Right Worshipful Brother Rowe, we are yet mindful that we have been privileged to have been associated with him through the years, and give thanks to the Great Architect of the Universe for having been so privileged.

Appropriate memorials will be presented for these brethren at a later time in these proceedings.

Let us stand for a moment of reverent silence in memory of these departed brethren.

condition of the fraternity.

It is always a pleasure to report progress in numbers in any Order or Association, and I am happy to report a net gain of 192 members, bringing our total membership to 47,624. However, we must be mindful that progress is not measured in numbers alone. Great numbers without lasting and strengthening qualities would be to erect our Temple on sand, or as cowans, building without benefit of mortar. I am pleased to note that such is not the case. Progress is being made in many different aspects of Masonry in this jurisdiction. Our educational program has exceeded our fondest hopes. What appeared at first to be a five-year plan in bringing this program into universal usage has progressed to the point where nearly every lodge reports faithful use of the Pollard Plan. This does not mean, however, that we can relax our efforts in this direction. There is still much to be desired, but if the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction will con-tinue diligently in their efforts to bring to their newly-raised brethren the information to which they are entitled, the future of Masonry in this jurisdiction will be strengthened and our heritage will be thus preserved.

Under the able direction of our Grand Lecturer, our program of ritualistic instruction continues to show increasing results in proficiency and understanding.

Nothing of a serious nature has been reported in the matter of invasion of jurisdiction within or without this Grand Jurisdiction.

While the problem of unpaid dues still plagues some of our lodges, there has been marked progress in this matter and a

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great many of our lodges have recognized the need of increasing their dues and fees in order to stay abreast of increased costs of operation, as indicated by the revisions of by-laws recorded in the Appendix D of this report.

Fraternal relations between this and sister Grand Jurisdictions continue at the same high level which has marked its progress for a great many years.

Requests for recognition from certain foreign jurisdictions continue to come in and the Committee on Foreign Correspondence, of which our M. W. Brother Ralph J. Pollard is chairman, has given them careful consideration and will report at this session. I urge your strict attention to this report. It was the privilege of your Grand Master to serve on the Commission on Recognition of the Conference of Grand Masters during the past year, and to thereby gain first-hand information on the problems involving recognition. As a result of this experience, together with the knowledge gained in our own Grand Lodge through the years, I am happy to urge continuance of our program of conservatism in this matter of recognition, an approach which has never brought embarrassment to this Grand Lodge.

masonic charitable foundation.

In accordance with the Constitution of this Grand Lodge, the Trustees of the Masonic Charitable Foundation met at Portland on Tuesday, May 1, 1956, at which time the necessary routine business was transacted and the meeting adjourned to the call of the President.

The next meeting was called and held at the Worster House in Hallowell on August 23, 1956, at which time nine of the Trustees were in attendance together with the Grand Treasurer. Investments were reviewed and the recommendations of the Investment Committee adopted. Applications for relief were carefully reviewed and the report of the Chairman of the Committee on Distribution was accepted. It was also voted at this meeting that $10.00 checks from the Relief Fund be enclosed in Christmas Cards for 1956 going to all beneficiaries at that time.

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Pursuant to the amendment to Section 59 of the Constitution as passed by this Grand Lodge at its last Annual Communication, the Annual Meeting for 1957 was held at the Worster House in Hallowell on April 16. There were present at this meeting nine Trustees together with the Grand Treasurer. In addition to the routine business of the Annual Meeting, the Grand Treasurer reported the receipt of $1,000 from the Estate of Gladys M. Gould of Bangor, bequeathed in memory of Fred H. and Alice V. Gould to be used for aged Masons. The Maine Masonic War Relief Fund was thoroughly discussed and it was voted that no action be taken to change the status of this Fund for the present. After hearing and passing upon reports by the Investment Committee and the Committee on Distribution, the meeting was adjourned to the call of the President.

One cannot fully appreciate the work which is being done through our Relief Fund, under the capable administration of the Chairman of that Committee, M. W. Brother Crossland, until he has had first-hand knowledge through direct contact with that Committee. During the past fiscal year seventy-two persons and their families have been assisted, in an aggregate amount of $22,840.

As the matter concerning a proposed Masonic Home in this Grand Jurisdiction may well involve action by the Trustees of the Charity Foundation, the Committee on Masonic Home was invited to sit with the Trustees, at the close of their Annual Meeting, in order that mutual problems might be considered. These matters will be further covered in the reports of the respective committees later in this session.

grand representatives.

Grand Representatives of other Grand Jurisdictions, near the Grand Lodge of Maine, have been appointed as follows:

California	Benjamin W. Ela	No. Anson
Costa Rica	Roland W. Cornish	Bowdoinham
Ohio	Nathaniel A. Gilpatrick	Richmond
Peru	Albert W. Hoffses	Camden
South Carolina	Willis H. Webber	Berwick
Tasmania	M. Donald Gardner	Portland
Texas	John M. Littlefield	Auburn

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I have been pleased to make the following appointments as Grand Representatives of Maine near other Grand Jurisdictions, acting in each case upon the recommendation of such other Grand Jurisdiction:

Arizona	S. Barry Casey
Alberta	Dr. Samuel Hershal Hardin
California	Elbert W. Davis
Cuba	Placido Lugris Beceiro
Denmark	A. A. Lusberg
Mexico (York G. L.)	Simon Utay
New South Wales (U.G.L.)	W. H. Hooke
No. Dakota	Edward Johnson
Quebec	J. B. Nayler
Rhode Island	Ralph Simpson
Sweden	Gustaf Adolph Bratt
	(Consul General)

You will note that the exchange of Representatives with the Grand Lodge of California is in the nature of an entirely new appointment, the request coming from the Junior Grand Jurisdiction (California).

Vacancies now existing will be filled after this Grand Communication.

District Deputies Schools of Instruction.

In accordance with the pattern set several years ago, District Deputies' Schools of Instruction were held in Portland and Bangor on Thursday and Friday, August 30 and 31, 1956. The Schools were well attended with all District Deputies appearing at one or the other of the schools. We were also pleased to welcome several past and present Grand Officers.

In conjunction with the Schools this year, the State Chairman, or one of the Area Chairmen of the Maine Masonic Blood Bank Program was in attendance at each school to outline and elaborate on the existing program of that Committee. This was intended to clear up troublesome issues and

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misunderstandings between the Committee and the District Deputies in order to make the program more efficient. I believe it served a much-needed purpose, and was appreciated by those involved.

The Grand Master and Grand Lecturer outlined their respective programs and objectives and acquainted the newly appointed Deputies with their duties. Likewise, the Grand Secretary was given opportunity to meet the Deputies personally and to outline the duties pertaining to his office.

Through the medium of these schools, much valuable information is gleaned which is of benefit to both the Deputies and the Grand Master and is an essential part of the over-all program of this Grand Lodge.

work of the grand lecturer.

The lodges of this Grand Jurisdiction have been indeed fortunate in having Right Worshipful Brother Raymond M. Rideout as their Grand Lecturer. R. W. Brother Rideout conducted schools of instruction in each of the twenty-four Districts during the fall months of 1956, and his records will indicate an increased attendance at the schools, but what is more important, they will show an increased and broadening interest in Masonry in general. Only ten lodges failed to be represented at a school, and while this is a great improvement over past years, it is fervently hoped that next year will see every lodge represented at at least one school.

Strict attention has been given to order and decorum in the degree work, particularly as regards " Special Teams." Visiting degree-teams are to be encouraged only as they conform to our established usages and customs. Our Grand Lecturer has taken great care in preserving this standard among visiting degree-teams and is to be commended for his fidelity to duty.

I wish to commend our Grand Lecturer for his intense interest in furthering the cause of Masonry through better understanding of the nature and purpose of our degree work.

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Dedications.

constituting of new lodges.

At least four lodges had planned Dedication Ceremonies for this past year, but due to circumstances involving construction problems and financial needs, these ceremonies were delayed. It is now believed that these dedicatory services may be held within the coming year.

One new lodge was constituted this year. Brotherhood Lodge of Portland, having been granted a Charter at our last annual communication, was constituted according to ancient form and usage, at a Special Communication of the Grand Lodge called for that purpose, on Saturday, October 13, 1956. A large attendance of Grand Officers and brethren from all parts of the state witnessed the official birth of Brotherhood Lodge, No. 218. The Constituting Ceremonies took place in the afternoon and were followed by impressive installation ceremonies in the evening, the Installation being conducted by M. W. Brother Paul L. Powers, together with several past and present Grand Officers.

We take this opportunity to extend to Brotherhood Lodge, No. 218, our sincere congratulations and best wishes for a most rewarding future in the labors of Freemasonry.

district meetings.

Twenty-one District Meetings have been held during the past year, and, with one or two exceptions, have been largely attended.

The size of our Grand Jurisdiction, both geographically and numerically, makes it next to impossible for a Grand Master to visit every lodge. Further than this, I do not believe it to be the policy of this Grand Lodge that the Grand Master be expected to visit every lodge. Our system of representation through District Deputy Grand Masters was doubtless inaugurated for this purpose in the days when traveling conditions forbid state-wide visitation. However, it is the desire of every Grand Master to meet as many of the brethren as possible, and to acquaint them with his programs and those of the Grand Lodge, that they might feel that they are a

Page 29

definite part of the great body of Masons who compose our Grand Lodge.

To bring about a further understanding of the operations of our Blood-bank program, the General Chairman, or one of the Area Chairmen were invited to participate in the program of each District Meeting. I believe that this proved to be successful in that many questions arose at these meetings resulting in greater efficiency in the over-all program.

For the most part, degree work was avoided at these meetings, giving the Grand Master an opportunity to bring a message to the lodges which he deemed to be for the betterment of the Craft.

It has been the desire of your Grand Master to instill in the hearts of the Masons of this Grand Jurisdiction, a greater appreciation of the great heritage which is ours, and to charge them with their individual responsibility as Masons and as citizens of this free and greatest country of the world, to preserve this heritage, and God-given dignity of the individual, that the principles which characterize Masonry may so influence the world as to remove the walls of prejudice and disunity, and bring about for future generations a greater understanding of our relationships to one another and to God, our Supreme Grand Master.

It is the hope of your Grand Master that you may share with him in this thought, and that, together, we may labor diligently in the erection of that Temple, to the glory of God and the satisfaction of man.

Lodge History Program.

As you are well aware, a concerted effort has been made during the past three years to bring all lodge histories up to date in accordance with Standing Regulation No. 2. The report of the Grand Lodge History Committee, as will be heard later, will indicate that substantial progress has been made in accomplishing a strict compliance to this regulation, with only twenty-two lodges now delinquent.

While this is indeed gratifying, it is not yet perfect and I would urge those delinquent lodges to give attention to this

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matter that their name may be erased from the delinquent list.

In my contacts with brethren over the state, I find that there is much concern as to what constitutes a history in the opinion of the Grand Lodge. While no definite pattern has been set up, yet a suggested procedure was made available to all lodges in the beginning of this program, and the Committee stands ready to assist any and all lodges in outlining their histories. Many have felt that a simple statistical report is nothing more than a duplication of records on file in the Grand Lodge office, and thus serves no useful purpose. With this, I am inclined to agree. Let us, therefore, in future compilations, give more attention to unusual events and happenings in the life of a lodge which will be of particular interest to future generations, and will indicate the part which Masonry has played in the shaping of community and national life.

I wish to commend the committee on their diligence in bringing all lodges into line, in compliance with the Standing Regulation, and I recommend their continuance.

MASONIC BLOOD BANK PROGRAM.

Our Masonic Blood Bank Program continues to grow under the able direction of its State Chairman, Brother Elmer S. Doe. To further implement the program, the state has been divided into three areas, over which Area Chairmen have been appointed. This has proved to be of great benefit in the operation of the program and has resulted in better informed District and Local Chairmen.

We still have problems, and will continue to have so long as this program is in operation, but problems create learning and we have benefited by many such problems.

The matter of reciprocal agreement with our sister jurisdiction of Massachusetts continues to be one of our major problems. By reason of the medical centers in the City of Boston, serving all New England, the balance of reciprocity is heavily borne by the Blood Bank Program of Massachusetts. While they have been most generous and understanding, and have never refused blood to Maine brethren, it behooves us

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to recognize this situation and to endeavor to correct it to the very best of our ability. In order to compensate in a measurable degree for the assistance given Maine brethren through the Massachusetts Blood Bank Program, I have requested an additional appropriation to provide for the transporting of at least two bus-loads of brethren from various points in Maine to the Blood-bank center in Massachusetts, there to give blood which will be credited to the Grand Lodge of Maine. Further particulars of this program will come through our Committee, and I urge the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction to give all support possible to this venture. We have a moral obligation to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts which MUST be met.

I express the deep appreciation of the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction for the work which is being done by our Committee.

MASONIC EDUCATION.

As indicated in this report under Condition of the Fraternity, there is vital need for education along other than ritualistic lines. This need is being met by the effective use of the "Pollard Plan."

Reports from District Deputies and others indicate, however, one weakness which must be overcome if this program is to accomplish its full purpose. This weakness lies in what we generally term "The Elder Brother" phase of the program. Little is accomplished in the total program if a newly-raised brother is cast out on his own immediately following his raising. The fourth Booklet, and the "Elder Brother" phase of the program are intended to keep the newly-raised brother in contact with his lodge and instill in his heart a desire to further his Masonic education.

Many of our lodges have lost sight of the fact that through this medium, an old complaint may be easily rectified. For many years now Masters and Officers of lodges have complained that S. R. No. 54, requiring a newly-raised Master Mason to show proficiency over the work of the Master Mason degree could not be effectively carried out since the candidate has received his degrees and direct contact with

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him is thereby lost. While I have never agreed with this neglectful policy, yet through the use of the "Elder Brother" phase of your educational program, you have an instrument by which this S. R. can be more easily enforced.

Our Grand Lecturer has a further recommendation incorporated in his report to further implement our present program. I urge strict attention therefore to his report.

The Committee on Masonic Education, of which M. W. Brother Ralph J. Pollard is Chairman will report more fully on this matter, and I urge strict attention to that report also.

OCCASIONAL BULLETIN.

One occasional bulletin has been printed and distributed this year bearing the message of the Most Worshipful Grand Master to The Council of Deliberation.

I am happy if this message proved to be of interest to the Craft.

It is our hope that further Bulletins may be distributed from time to time carrying information of value and particular interest to Maine Masons.

Our Junior Past Grand Master, in his report of last year, stated: I am convinced that an annual message from the Grand Master should be distributed to every member within our Grand Jurisdiction each year."

I share with him in that conviction except that, unless prompted by unusual circumstances, one such message during the administration of a Grand Master would be sufficient.

Therefore, should I be re-elected at this session, you may expect to receive such a message within the coming year.

MASONIC DISCIPLINE.

The reputation of Masonry in our several communities is of so vast importance as to admonish us to be constantly on guard lest we bring shame upon our Fraternity.

There have been few cases involving lodges that could not be corrected by direct appeal to the members.

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Two cases involving misuse of the ballot have been reported, but the element of time has corrected the situation in both of these cases.

One case involving possible mis-use of the ballot in another body of Masonry has had very troubling effects upon Masonry in the community, bordering on damage to the reputation of Masonry. This case is still pending and is being watched carefully by your Grand Master lest Masonry be brought into disrepute.

Several reports have come to the attention of the Grand Master of the existence of "Beano" or "Bingo" games being prevalent in Masonic circles. Such games of chance are expressly forbidden by this Grand Lodge, and corrective steps have been taken in each case cited. This rule applies not only to lodges themselves but to any and all organizations owing allegiance to this Grand Lodge. Let us not jeopardize our high standards in the community by becoming involved in such unlawful enterprises.

It has been the unpleasant duty of your Grand Master to suspend four brethren in accordance with the provisions of Article VIII, Sec. 14 of the Constitution of this Grand Lodge. Three of these suspensions were brought about as a result of conviction and sentence on morals charges, and the fourth on charges of embezzlement, the suspensions in each case being effective until this annual communication at which time they are referred, with detailed information on each case, to the Trial Commission of this Grand Lodge which will report on their findings later in this session.

Let us take unto our hearts the words included in the charge to the Tyler at an Installation Ceremony — words applicable to each one of us: "so it should admonish us to set a guard over our thoughts, a watch at our lips, and post a sentinel over our actions; thereby preventing every unworthy thought, word or deed, and preserving consciences void of offense towards God and towards men."

TREASURER'S REPORTS.

For several years, District Deputies have been instructed to admonish Treasurers of lodges to submit copies of their

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annual report to this Grand Lodge within ten days after the annual meeting of the lodge. This practice has been so long in effect as to become tantamount to Law.

Many treasurers have failed to submit such reports, thus handicapping this Grand Lodge in making an honest appraisal of conditions within the Jurisdiction.

I, therefore, urge Treasurers of lodges to give strict attention to this matter in the future. Suitable blanks are provided by this Grand Lodge, or one can use his own type of report as submitted to the lodge if the same is more comprehensible.

In this regard also, matters have come to light which are very disturbing to your Grand Master. It is found that there exist in some lodges, conditions whereby the lodge has no knowledge of their own charity funds—the amounts invested—the amount expended for relief—or the balance remaining. The elected Trustees of such funds have taken it upon themselves to be sole custodians, and have deemed it of no concern to the lodge or its members as to the status of such funds. It is true that such elected Trustees are empowered with certain rights and duties as prescribed by the By-laws of the Lodge, but this does not absolve them from rendering just accounts to the lodge, annually, of the status of such funds. It is still lodge money and should so be reported. I trust that lodges in which such conditions exist will make careful appraisal of the situation and take immediate steps to correct it. It is not the intent of the Grand Master to meddle in the affairs of the lodges, but he is charged with responsibility of correct conduct of affairs throughout the Jurisdiction.

Speakers' Bureau.

By Standing Regulation No. 74, the Grand Master is empowered to organize a Speaker's Bureau. Such an agency has existed in this Grand Lodge for some time, but has not been taken advantage of as we might hope that it would.

The existing Bureau is undergoing revision and we hope that the lodges will avail themselves of this service more frequently in the future.

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grand lodge inventory.

It is good business policy that the assets of Grand Lodge be reviewed in annual inventory.

Such an inventory has not been taken during the past two years, because of circumstances beyond control.

However, plans are being made to cause such an inventory to be taken at the earliest possible moment after the compilation of reports of this Grand Session.

masters' and wardens' associations.

Following the example set by two or three Districts in the lower part of the State, Master's and Warden's Associations have been set up in several districts and have proved to be of invaluable assistance to the District Deputies and to the lodges. Increased interest in inter-visitation between lodges has been promoted by these associations resulting in larger attendance and greater activity. One of the greatest benefits derived from these associations has been the search for further wisdom through the use of quiz programs, lecturers, etc.

Not only do I urge continuance of existing associations, but also urge those District Deputies where such associations do not exist to avail themselves of this wonderful opportunity to work in closer contact with their lodges and to learn their problems and share in their experiences.

approval of building plans.

No plans for new buildings have been submitted for approval during the past year.

One lodge has requested permission for extensive alterations and two more such applications are pending.

On October 3, 1956, Abner Wade Lodge, No. 207, of Sangerville, requested permission to shingle the side-walls of their building. After investigation of the circumstances and the proposed financing of the project, permission was granted. Later it was learned that the lodge had decided against such action at this time and submitted in its stead an application for permission to purchase and erect a new heating plant.

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The proposed financing of this project was likewise investigated and permission granted.

occupation of halls.

On December 3, 1956, Preble Lodge, No. 143, was granted permission to occupy and hold meetings in the new hall being erected as a Masonic Temple. The new building is less than one-half mile from the previous location of the lodge, and as the lease had run out on the former building, it was deemed wise to permit occupancy of the new building, it having been previously inspected by the District Deputy Grand Master. I have since visited the lodge in its new quarters and can testify that upon its completion it will be one of the finest Temples in this Grand Jurisdiction.

On March 13, 1957, King Solomon's Lodge of Waldoboro, was granted permission to occupy and hold meetings in the building formerly purchased by the Keystone Association of Waldoboro. This building was purchased with the intent of converting it into a Masonic Temple. Having been erected as a Theatre, it provides a beautiful auditorium which, with necessary alterations, will make a splendid Masonic Hall. This Association had been faced with difficult financial problems which were the result of a waning interest in the project due to the fact that the lodge was unable to occupy the building. Several committee meetings were held with your Grand Master and plans outlined which would make more funds available upon occupancy by the several Masonic bodies in the community. A sound program has been set up which should insure an early liquidation of the mortgage, and after careful consideration of the facts, permission was granted the lodge to occupy the new building. Reports of a recent meeting held in the new quarters indicate a revival of Masonic interest in the community. I have personally inspected the building and find it adequate for present occupancy.

equipment in grand lodge office.

Two years ago a Committee was appointed to make a survey and equip the Grand Lodge Office. The program

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was further continued by action at our last annual communication. Great strides have been made in accomplishing this project, and the work of this committee is nearly completed.

If you have not already visited the office, I urge you to do so that you may see for yourselves the transformation which has taken place.

There are still a few details to be taken care of, and a further appropriation has been requested for this year in order to complete the work.

This should serve to be of great benefit to the Craft throughout the State as it makes for greater efficiency in the work of that office.

I trust that you will approve the further appropriation, and will, by personal observation, take pride in this accomplishment.

resignations.

Due to matters of employment, it became necessary for the District Deputy of the Fourth District to tender his resignation early in the fiscal year of this Grand Lodge, and I appointed in his place Brother Warren A. Partridge of Blue Hill.

vacancies.

Due to the passing of M. W. Brother Granville C. Gray and R. W. Brother Harry E. Rowe, several vacancies were created in committees.

I have appointed R. W. Brother Harold W. Blaisdell to fill the vacancy on the Committee on Grievances and Appeals, and have appointed R. W. Brother Elbert G. Moulton to fill the vacancy on the Committee on Pay Roll.

Two vacancies remain unfilled, but will be appointed during this session.

revision and annotation oF constitution.

In accordance with the report which was presented to and adopted by this Grand Lodge at its last annual communication, the recommendations of the Special Committee on Revision of the Constitution have been carried out, and each

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lodge has been furnished with copies of the proposed revision printed in galley form. The main purpose of this revision was to bring the book up to date and to make it more usable and consistent with itself.

It is now ready for action by this Grand Lodge and will be presented during this communication.

Order of DeMolay.

Consistent with the vote of this Grand Lodge at its last annual communication, the sum of $300.00 as appropriated, was expended by your Grand Master as he deemed proper and for the best interests of the Fraternity.

The Grand Treasurer was authorized to draw a check in that amount ($300.00) in favor of the DeMolay Activities Fund, with the stipulation that it become a revolving fund for the establishment of New Chapters of DeMolay.

Anyone familiar with this work will realize that this comprises a start in the right direction and I have consequently requested a like appropriation for this year to further implement the work of DeMolay.

On October 27, 1956, I attended a state-wide meeting of DeMolay at the Masonic Temple at Lewiston, at which time a large class of candidates were initiated, and named in my honor, which honor I was pleased to accept in the name of the Grand Lodge of Maine.

On the 24th of January, 1957, it was my privilege, along with other present and past Grand Officers, to raise to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason in Caribou Lodge, No. 170, the first DeMolay boy in that district to become a Master Mason.

On Saturday, April 27, 1957, I attended that Annual State Conclave of DeMolay held at Dover-Foxcroft. Fifteen Chapters of DeMolay were reported as active in this State, with a total membership slightly under 1,000. Every courtesy was extended me at this meeting and I was given the opportunity to address the boys briefly. The dignified manner in which their meeting was conducted might well serve as an example for some of us.

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I am convinced that the time has come when we must recognize our responsibility to the youth of this nation and the world. Without the guidance which we are so much in a position to give, our youth are subjected and forced to turn to other paths of leadership, many of which are not conducive to good citizenship and right living. The responsibility rests with us in great measure, and I look forward to the day when this Grand Lodge will really face up to the situation and take even greater strides in promoting the welfare of our youth.

proposed amendment to part four, article I, Section 134.

The proposed amendment to Article 1, Sec. 134, as presented one year ago and referred to the Committee on Amendments to the Constitution has as its purpose the right to belong to more than one lodge at one and the same time, or what is commonly know as " Dual Membership." If adopted at this communication, it will permit a member of a lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction to apply for membership in another Grand Jurisdiction, provided, of course, that said other Grand Jurisdiction permits dual membership. Likewise, it would allow a member of another Grand Jurisdiction to petition for membership in a lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction under the same provisions.

Care should be taken in consideration of this amendment that it not be construed to mean membership in more than one lodge within our own Grand Jurisdiction.

It is my hope that this amendment will pass.

proposed amendment to article VIII, section 117.

This amendment was proposed at our last annual communication and has to do with suspension for non-payment of dues.

If adopted, this amendment would provide that notice to the last known address of the offending brother not less than fourteen days prior to the date of the proposed action of the lodge shall be sufficient notice to permit action by the lodge.

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Also, if adopted, this amendment would automatically render useless Standing Regulation No. 77, having to do with lodges being excused from paying per capita tax on delinquents who cannot be located.

This amendment was referred to the Committee on Amendments and will be further discussed in their report.

automatic suspension.

In view of the above proposed amendment having to do with this same subject, further action in the study of Automatic Suspension has been postponed.

Should the amendment to Article VIII, Section 117, fail to pass, it would then be in order for this Grand Lodge to take such steps as they deem expedient in further consideration of Automatic Suspension.

Resolution Re: Masonic Home.

In compliance with the resolution presented to and adopted by this Grand Lodge one year ago, the following committee was appointed to investigate the need for a Masonic Home, ways and means of raising funds therefor, for acquisition, maintenance, and operation.

M. W. Granville C. Gray, Chairman M. W. Henry R. Gillis R. W. Philip D. Tingley Wor. Reginald F. Berry Wor. William T. Danes

With the passing of M. W. Brother Gray, I appointed M. W. Brother Charles E. Crossland to assume chairmanship of this committee. This committee has worked diligently in an effort to establish factual information which will be of value to this Grand Lodge in rendering its decision. Much material has been gathered from other Grand Jurisdictions to aid them in making a comparative study of such homes. Letters have been sent to all the lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction requesting information pertaining to their particular membership. Efforts have been made by your Grand Master and

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others to acquaint the brethren of the probable cost and the problems involved. Thus far, this information has been purely speculative except as it is the result of comparative figuring. I would not wish to trespass upon the report of the committee at this time and will therefore not pursue the matter further, except to admonish the members of this Grand Lodge to exercise great care in the consideration of this problem, as once embarked upon, it must be carried through to its fulfillment. I think that there is little question as to the desirability of such a home, but there are a great many matters to be considered in making such a home a practical move for this Grand Lodge. I therefore urge strict attention to the report of this committee.

Decisions.

Many questions have been raised during the past year regarding proper procedures to be followed in many different phases of Masonic law. With one exception these questions have been answered by reference to existing laws and decisions of former Grand Masters.

The one exception has to do with irregular re-instatement of a brother formerly suspended for non-payment of dues.

Question: What is the Masonic standing of a brother re-instated in a manner contrary to the By-laws of the Lodge and the Constitution of the Grand Lodge?

Answer: The attempted re-instatement of a member in a manner not in conformity with the Constitutions of the Grand Lodge is irregular and invalid, and the standing of the individual is that of an unaffiliate. Moneys received at the time of such irregular re-instatement are improperly received and should be refunded by the lodge.

religion and politics.

A request was made of your Grand Master to enter a brief "amicus curiae," friend of the court, in a case involving politics and religion, pending in the Superior Court in Augusta. The request was rejected on the grounds that it would be unwise, extremely unfortunate, and contrary to the precepts

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of Freemasonry as practiced and understood in this Grand Jurisdiction, for the Grand Lodge, or anyone representing said body to participate or be represented in a controversy which is plainly political and religious. In the discussion of these subjects, Masonry takes no part.

incorporation oF lodges.

Despite several references to the subject through the years, the matter concerning incorporation of lodges continues to plague this Jurisdiction.

In 1869, upon recommendation of M. W. Brother Josiah H. Drummond, this Grand Lodge forbid the incorporation of lodges " under penalty of forfeiture of their charters " and further recommended " that lodges already incorporated, surrender by formal vote their civil charters and dissolve as corporations, having previously conveyed their real estate, if any, to a new corporation to be formed as provided."

Some of our lodges, incorporated prior to 1869, have failed to heed this recommendation, and as a result have frequently found themselves in disturbing circumstances.

I therefore urge such lodges to carefully check the provisions of Chapter XIX, of the Maine Masonic Textbook (1942), and take such steps as are necessary to correct this situation.

Maine Council of Deliberation.

On the 13th of July, 1956, I was the guest of the Maine Council of Deliberation holden at Augusta, Maine. Every courtesy due the office of Grand Master was extended to me. Most Illustrious Frank C. Allen, Deputy for Maine, was most kind and generous in his attention to my comfort, and I am deeply grateful for the many courtesies extended.

It was my privilege to address this distinguished group of Masons at this Convocation, which address was printed in the Proceedings of that body, and was also circulated to the lodges of this Grand Jurisdiction through the Occasional Bulletin.

 

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