M.W.
BILLY V. MORRIS
MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND
MASTER
Greetings and welcome to this our 83rd Grand Assembly.
Today is one of the proudest moments of my life, as I stand before this
august body which elected me to serve as its Grand Master twelve months ago.
As I look about this assembly on our 83rd year, realizing that we have
gathered here from throughout this vast Jurisdiction, which extends to
Canada, Japan, Germany and now into the country of England, I realize just
“how good and great God is.” Many of us have been here for a few days
already experiencing, participating in and enjoying the reality and truth of
that great axiom of the first experience each of us had in Masonry, “Behold
how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in Unity,”
and we have also come for the purpose of constructive endeavor for the
benefit of more than two thousand brothers whom we represent.
My brothers, none of us traverse this land alone, unless we choose to
alienate ourselves from the One we call the Grand Architect of the Universe.
I have chosen to walk with Him and I feel that anything and everything that
has been accomplished that is worthwhile is a result of His blessings. In my
readings, I came across a prayer which said, “Lord, will thou graciously
grant us the opportunity of service.” It was a prayer given over 70 years
ago and I feel that it is a request which stands applicable for us today, as
we end our 83rd year and begin our 84th. Let us pause a moment as the Grand
Chaplain brings us a word of prayer, for each of us in this great fraternity
realizes that no great or important undertaking should begin without first
invoking the aid of Deity.
Brother Grand Chaplain, you will lead us in prayer.
Brethren, I can only assure you that to the best of my ability, I have held
high the banner of Freemasonry as it reflects on this Great Jurisdiction.
Granted, there have been highs and lows, problem areas which we have been
plagued with for years which have been avoided or ignored, but resurfaced
during this administration. We have either met them and made decisions,
which if you approve will be final or we are working on them for final
disposition. This administration, which you have elected, in my opinion has
two philosophies: 1. “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen,”
and 2. We’re like the Burlington Northern -- “we can handle it.”
There is a song which best reflects my personal belief when it says “He
didn’t bring me this far to leave me.”
God has a mission for men of character, dedication and love for their
fellowman. This may well be the organization of men He will use to carry out
His will. We must stand ready for the mission He has for us.
To the excellent staff of officers which you gave me, I would like to say
thank you for your support. The same goes to those who were appointed.
Without your support our successes could never have occurred. And to you,
the Worshipful Masters, Wardens and Craft, I repeat what I have said
throughout the year, you are the backbone of any program of this Grand Lodge
-- thank you for a successful year.
NECROLOGY
“The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the
Lord.” Again this year that Grim Reaper known as death has entered our ranks
and taken away those whom the Lord has seen fit to call to rest. It is not
ours to mourn, but to rejoice, for He who has given life, surely knows when
it should be taken. Those whom he has called home to rest are:
DATE OF DEATH
NAME
LODGE
·
July 10, 1985
John Marks,
Jr. Cassia #5
·
August 6, 1985
James Jones
True Resolution #16
·
September 5, 1985
Tom Brown
Harmony #2
·
September 13, 1985
Abraham Andrew
Union #43
·
September 29, 1985
Russell S. Gideon
Hercules #17
·
October 5, 1985
James Sorrells
Egyptian #44
·
October 10, 1985
Reuben Gillum,
Jr. Cassia #5
·
October 15, 1985
Sampson
Coleman Harmony #2
·
November 1, 1985
Herbert J. Gibbs
Egyptian #44
·
December 29, 1985
Manuel Wells
Hercules #17
·
January 26, 1986
Doctor L.
Nathan Hamma Hamma #35
·
February 2, 1986
Samuel P.D. Wilson
Abiff #37
·
March 26, 1986
Lawrence
Hollings Olympus #45
·
March 27, 1986
Thomas D.
Allen Evergreen #9
·
April 22, 1986
Olie J.
Anthony King Solomon #62
·
May 28, 1986
Wilmar H.
Porter Abiff #37
May God have mercy on their souls and bless and care for those whom they
have left behind. Let us observe a moment of silence in their memory.
STATE OF THE NATION
We are well aware of the conservatism that this nation has lived under since
1980, when Reaganism took place. Many programs which were in effect which
stood to help Black people as well as others which faced similar conditions,
have disappeared.
We looked on these situations with a sense of sadness that appeared to
permeate the Black family. But, as Bro. Benjamin Hooks stated recently, “for
every bad side, there is a good side.” The ills of this nation over turning
almost every civil rights law that had helped our progress for over 20 years
has caused us to look for help within our own people. Black people are
becoming more aware that if they don’t help themselves, no help is coming at
all.
Without diminishing our present efforts in pushing such organizations as the
N.A.A.C.P. and the U.N.C.F., we can still be involved in organizational activities
which will benefit our people without depleting the pocket book. Programs
such as the Assault on Illiteracy Program (AOIP), in which those of us with
the skills to teach or tutor lend our time and talent to help our Black
youth; the PLUS Program, a program designed to make our local communities
aware of the illiteracy that is present and the need for a program to combat
it; or the National Council on the Black Aged, which responds to the unique
need of lower income Black elderly. To affirm the need to be involved is
only to know that 27 million, or 44%, of American Blacks are functionally
illiterate. It is no wonder that Black organizations throughout the United
States are urging Blacks to support their own. All in all, there is fast
becoming a great and needed awareness that if we don’t, do for ourselves, no
one is going to do it for us. The choice is ours.
STATE OF THE CRAFT
I am pleased to report that the overall state of the Craft is excellent. In
an organization such as this, we always expect some problems as a normal
part of our everyday business. We meet those problems, make the necessary
decisions and move on. I feel that I have been a Grand Master that was
sensitive to the needs of those who I was put here to serve, yet mindful of
the fact that decisions are based on the needs of the whole, not the
individual.
We have in the Jurisdiction at present, 38 chartered lodges and four U.D.
lodges, three of which are asking for charters to be granted at this
Communication. Brothers, we are on the move. Our membership has not
increased as much as our potential shows it should, but I think we will
begin to pick up in the coming year. Our new lodges have great potential for
growth.
In the Far East, we continue to have building problems. Marianas Travelers
#49 is desperately in need of a building, as the place where they meet has
to be used for military purposes during certain periods of the year,
preventing them from holding their regular meeting for weeks at a time.
The building that Mabuhay #59 meets in will be taken down within one to two
years. Although they will be provided with a place to meet, the brothers
feel it is inadequate because of the sharing of the facility with many other
community based organizations and, of course, our brothers in Okinawa are
still facing their problem of housing. Also, O’Misawa has had its problems,
but at last report was slowly coming into its own.
I have requested these lodges to submit a detailed plan of action, which
they think the Grand Lodge might consider, knowing what could happen to the
building should we have to move out of the country or close down our lodges.
I have also been informed of the increased amount of vandalism being
committed in District #2 during their meetings and the lack of police
support to prevent it. I have suggested that the brothers take some
appropriate action, such as hiring guards or posting other brothers outside
during their meetings. It is a difficult situation because, in our society
the guilty, especially the young guilty, are sometimes more protected than
the victim.
I would like to take this opportunity to say “thank you” to the entire Craft
for their support on all of our projects this year. Some were not as
successful as we had hoped, but that gives us cause to put more effort in
all of our undertakings in the years to come. However, I would like to
mention that our boat ride at the beginning of the year was a surprising
success. We had a profit of $3,830.34. Our raffle, which culminated
in July, 1986, netted $2,246.60.
Likewise, we are hoping that the raffle we are having now will be even more
profitable.
It can only happen with the cooperation and support of each of you.
UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND
DONATIONS (UNCF)
Many of you are aware that I set a goal of $2,000.00 to present at our
banquet to a representative of the U.N.C.F. However, our goal is far short.
Since the cost of coming to Spokane to receive the gift would further lessen
the total contribution, I have decided to make our presentation at the
telethon, which will also give us more visibility among those outside the
fraternity. We have a total of $1,167.00 to present to the U.N.C.F. All
donations made at this communication and between now and the date of the
telethon -November, 1986 - will be added to that amount.
To my District Deputy Grand Masters:
RW William Rheubottom
#1
RW James B. Sloan
#2
RW G.T. McMillion
#3
RW James Troutt
#4
RW Isaac Gaiters
#5
RW Donald Hamilton
#6
RW Tiffany McCullough
#7
RW John E.
Allen #8
RW Andrew Morgan
#9
and to my Special District Deputy Grand Masters:
RW J.W. Woodard
#2
RW Willie C. Young
#8
RW Robert Denmark
#8
RW Maurice Thomas
#9
(England)
A special thank you.
These men have played a special part in every part of the program of this
Grand Lodge. They are the special “mouth-pieces” of the Grand Master --
Craft, will you give them a special applause.
ST. JOHN’S LODGE U.D.
St. John’s Lodge grew out of controversy within another Jurisdiction located
in West Germany. With limited knowledge of the real problem, we have only
accepted those personnel who have demits or are profanes and awaiting
‘initiation, passing and raising. The explanation is, briefly, that the
Oklahoma Jurisdiction took exception to an assessment being levied on those
brothers belonging to their lodges in Germany by the Scottish Rite and the
Shrine (this assessment was levied on all brothers that were members of
Scottish Rite and Shrine). Correspondence received records these events
surrounding the problem in chronological order. This correspondence may or
may not be all inclusive:
1. September 13, 1985 - Letter from Deputy of Oasis Carlease Jones
to Imperial Potentate Carl L. Wilson describing the development of the
Building Fund for Aswan Temple.
2. April 9, 1986 - Letter from D.D.G.M. Curtis James to D. of O. Jones
A. Exempt Oklahoma Masons from assessment and return funds paid in (from
both Scottish Rite and Shrine).
B. Authorization by MWGM Duncan to take action necessary to bar
participation in Scottish Rite and Shrine.
C. Letter to D.D.G. Matron, Assistant DDGM, and Worshipful Masters
3. Demits frozen until rotation to states.
4. Prohibited from participation in Scottish Rite activity.
5. Okay to participate in Royal Arch, Knight Temples, and affiliated
bodies.
6. April 2, 1986 - Letter from Carlease Jones to Carl Wilson in
which he explained problem and asks Imperial Potentate Wilson to intercede
on their (Temple) behalf.
7. April 21, 1986 - Letter from Carlease Jones to Lodge #40 - Demit
requested.
8. June 3, 1986 - Resolution from DDGM Curtis James to:
A. Carlease Jones - expelled.
B. Abe Brothers, Winston Crump, Cline Farrow, George Lassiter, James
Lavender, Norman Marble Jr., Wilton Range and Glenn Richie.
C. Victor Johnson - expelled.
9. June 9, 1986 - All brothers expelled from Masonry by Grand Lodge
of Oklahoma.
The brothers wanting to start St. John’s Lodge have demits. In my opinion, a
demit is one of the rights of a brother and cannot be denied, legally, if
the brother is paid up and in good standing. There is no indication that
these brothers were in other than good standing at the time of their demit.
This Grand Lodge has the power to issue a Charter and if it finds that the
Charter was under false assumptions, it has the power to retrieve the
Charter. Likewise, when not in Session, the Grand Master possesses the
right. Yet, until a valid reason exists not to grant such Charter, I would
certainly recommend the establishment of a lodge of men who have served this
great fraternity for many years of their lives. The choice is yours.
GRAND MASTER’S CONFERENCE
The Grand Master’s Conference was held in New York. Besides meeting many of
my peers, I found that we share many of the same problems. However, we found
that our problem areas, whatever they may be, are carried over from year to
year, mainly because there is never enough time to fully discuss them.
Therefore, we voted to send all the recommendations and topics which we deem
important to the Regional Presidents for discussion at Regional meetings and
the recommended solutions are to be brought back and presented at the next
Grand Master’s Conference.
SUPREME COUNCIL
I attended the Supreme Council session in Philadelphia, and witnessed the
cornerstone laying of the Scottish Rite House, by the Prince Hall Masons of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. M.W.G.M. Lorenzo Cruger, his staff and the
Past Grand Masters who performed the dedication are to be commended for a
job well done. We also congratulate the brethren who were elevated to the
33rd degree - R.W. Elbert Timmes, W.B. Leonard Baldwin, W.B. LaRoi Carter, and W.B.
Henry Sharp.
ANNUAL GRAND COMMUNICATION OF THE
JURISDICTION OF OREGON
I attended the opening festivities of the Oregon Jurisdiction Grand Session.
I was accompanied by D.G.M. Kenneth Swanigan, S.G.W. Daniel Lunsford, G.J.W. Victor
S. Baxter, P.G.M. James W. Davis, Grand Secretary David Archibald, and Grand
Senior Deacon Joe B. McNeal. The hospitality and brotherly love extended by
M.W.G.M. Joseph Harvey and his Craft was outstanding and greatly appreciated.
Our thanks to the brothers of our sister Jurisdiction.
LIBRARY
The Library Fund project has been an on again/off again project. The amount
in the Fund is $6,574.69. I think that this Grand Lodge needs to review its
decision on the Library and determine if we are serious about completing it.
As we try to promote the library during our visitations, there is always
some discontent being expressed. It is for this reason that I suggest
a review and possibly a redirection of our efforts.
FRATERNAL RELATIONS
I am pleased to report that there is peace and harmony between the bodies of
the order -- male and female. Where we saw there was a need, we made what we
hoped was the best decision for the good of the order. There have been some
differences of opinion, but nothing that would or should effect our good
relationship.
I established a committee to review the bylaws of the Order of the Easter
Star (OES) and the Heroines of Jericho. They will make their report later
with recommendations for changes as necessary.
The OES has questioned the Grand Lodge as it pertains to an amount of money
($5,600, plus interest) that was made as a loan approximately 30 years ago.
The Grand Lodge has taken the request into consideration along with the fact
that the OES, of their own volition, stopped paying their rental
approximately three years ago. A committee has been working on this problem
for some time. Once resolved, we expect to resolve the same problem as it
relates to other organizations who made similar loans or grants. My
committee will make a report and recommendation on this subject at this
Communication.
My real concern, as it relates to fraternal relations between us and our
female organizations, is that some of our brothers appear to be more
concerned, about our sister’s organization than they do about their own. I
would suggest that those who find themselves in such a predicament,
disassociate themselves from the problem or’ from discussion of it. I think
we all want a fair solution, but we still must determine what is fair and to
whom.
PARTICIPATION AT ROSLYN, WA
CENTENNIAL
As planned, on July 5, 1986 we participated in the Roslyn, WA Centennial
Parade and dedicated a marker commemorating the beginning of Prince Hall
Masonry in the State of Washington and also dedicated a marker for the grave
of P.G.M. J.E. Shepperson, who served this Grand Lodge as Grand Master from
1909 to 1910.
Estimates of between 150 and 200 of the Masonic Family were in attendance,
which gives credence to the fact that this Masonic Family supports
worthwhile causes. I wholeheartedly thank you for that support. Again,
thanks to R.W. G.S.W. Daniel Lunsford and his committee for a job “well done.” It
was truly a blessing to see, hear and converse with Mrs. Craven, of whom I
had heard so much. She is always willing and ready to give assistance when
needed. She and her family were very proud of this Prince Hall Family.
Our Brothers who participated in the parade were a credit to our Order and
to the Shrine as they were dressed. They came home with a trophy for their
outstanding display. Many thanks to them.
Even though it’s time to go back to Roslyn to clean the grave site again, to
all of you who participated on April 5, 1986, we owe a debt of gratitude.
Many compliments were heard about your outstanding work.
I believe I am safe in saying that a good time was had by all attendees.
Again, thank you.
GRAND MASTER’S WORKSHOP
Right Worshipful Brother Daniel Lunsford and his committee can be proud of
themselves for putting on an outstanding workshop. It was interesting, a
learning situation, and everyone, I believe, received something worthwhile
from it. Congratulations on a job well done.
YOUTH
The Youth Program under the Grand Junior Warden, Victor S. Baxter, is
expanding into many areas. Even though the Knights of Pythagoras remains a
viable part, other programs of interest to the youth are emerging. I know
his report will reflect the many fields of endeavor.
GRAND ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE
I have requested that the Grand Entertainment Committee give you a report
which includes a summary breakdown of expenditures. The chairman, RW Deputy
Grand Master Kenneth Swanigan, will render you a report of this year’s
activities and last year’s income and expenses and also the distribution of
the profits.
THE COMPTROLLER BOARD
This group of brothers has worked long and hard this year. We have been able
to work harmoniously and to accomplish those things which needed to be done.
With the computer age upon us, they are going to have more work to do and
more committees to form. For those of you who think the computer will lessen
the work, you may find that an ill—conceived perception because we will
place greater demands on the administrators to produce more. The seven board
members are to be commended as they work on a multiplicity of sub-committees
within the board, not to mention their external duties, as well as perform
regular board functions. I deem it a necessary action of this Grand Lodge to
have some type of recognition for this dedicated and distinguished group.
HONORS
1. I had the good fortune this year of being named to the Governor’s
Commission for the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday.
2. I was also deeply appreciative of the outstanding banquet held in
my honor by District #4.
3. I was especially honored to have a proclamation from the City of
Spokane proclaiming October 5, 1985 as Billy V. Morris Appreciation Day, by
the former mayor, James E. Chase.
4. Recently I was presented by the men of Bethel A.M.E. Church with
an “Outstanding Community Service Award”, of which I was very proud and
privileged to receive. This was the first of its kind.
SPECIAL COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS
Advisory Committee - This year I established an Advisory Committee
consisting of all Past Grand Masters. This committee was chaired by PGM
Carlton B. Tucker and was given certain tasks on which to make
recommendations to. the Grand Master. Some of the tasks assigned this
committee were: repayment of the OES debt, criteria for Honorary Past Grand
Masters, and other projects as they arose. My staff and I met four times
during the year with our Past Grand Masters, in which I have determined were
four very productive meetings.
To my Past Grand Masters - you have been an inspiration to me, as the Chief
Executive Officer of this great fraternity, and I’m sure to my staff. You
have been unselfish with your time and talents, a friend in need. May God
continue to bless you both individually and collectively.
Secondly, I have set up a commission on Inter-Fraternal Relations. This
commission will deal with all aspects of communicating with other Fraternal
groups on matters of mutual interest to include, but not be limited to,
clandestine or bogus masonry, recognition of other groups,
inter-visitations, and other joint ventures.
This commission will report to the Grand Lodge at each annual session and
between sessions to the Grand Master only. The work being done by this group
must remain within the committee.
Jurisprudence - A standing committee of which I have taken the liberty to
name nine individuals which will work as the core committee. Others who sit
in on this group may; at designated time set by the chairman, question any
point or area of concern. However, the final decisions will be made by the
nine selected individuals.
A special committee, chaired by RW Cleophus Chatman, to study and make
recommendations on the OES and Heroines of Jericho By-laws.
HEADQUARTER LODGE
We attempted to get Headquarters Lodge active again this year, as I had what
I believe are plans to keep it active. Yet, I was unsuccessful. Headquarters
Lodge with an active interest group running it can be a viable entity which
could stimulate growth in this Jurisdiction and at the same time act as sort
of a public relations arm as it attempts to bring brothers back into the
fold.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. That the Comptroller Board be expanded by two more individuals to better
serve this Grand Lodge. (This recommendation will be brought to you in full
by a special committee of the Comptroller Board).
2. That this Grand Lodge re-affirm a previous recommendation that the Grand
Lodge become a life member of the NAACP in each city in which it meets.
3. That a Grand Lodge Life Membership be granted to the following
individuals:
a. Past Grand Master James E. Chase, #3
b. Grand Trustee Elmo Dalbert, #3
c. Grand Trustee James T. Smith, #43
4. That the criteria for Honorary Past Grand Masters, as presented by my
special committee, be accepted.
5. That the Grand Lodge purchase aprons and collars for the six standing
committee chairman as listed in the code book at present - namely, Masonic
Jurisprudence, Appeals and Grievance, Masonic Charity, Foreign
Correspondence, Audit and Building. The seventh - that of Grand
Entertainment - is the Deputy Grand Master, who needs no other apron. I
further recommend that the aprons previously purchased for the Comptroller
Board members be designated as the Comptroller Board Chairman’s Apron and if
two or more members who are not otherwise officers of this Grand Lodge be
appointed to the Board, only the chairman will wear the apron, if he is one
of the two.
6. That all other committees, other than those listed in recommendation #5,
be labeled “Special Committees”.
7. That a donation of $3.00 per year be requested of each member on the
rolls of each Lodge for Charity.
8. That all new additions, changes or deletions to our code book, which
have not been rescinded, be printed and sent out to each code book holder.
9. That each district having a SDDGM raise such funds to purchase a
District Deputy Grand Master apron.
10. That Charters be granted to Sons of Light U.D., Germany, Russell S.
Gideon U.D., England, St. John U.D. Germany, with the following numbers
respectively: 77, 78, 79.
11. One question that surfaces frequently is the upper age of candidates.
We are, to an extent and rightfully so, protective of our Masonic relief.
Therefore, I recommend that any profane petitioning to become a Mason in the
Washington Jurisdiction, who is fifty-five (55) years of age or older, and
is accepted, must be a member in good standing for at least three (3)
consecutive years before he or his beneficiaries are entitled to Masonic
relief.
12. That a recognition banquet be given in honor of the existing
Comptroller Board as it now stands, by this Grand Lodge.
CONCLUSION
Once again, this is one of the proudest and most privileged moments of my
life as I stand before this august body; to say “thank you.” “Thank you” for
your confidence in me. “Thank you” for your trust in me. “Thank you” for
allowing me to serve you as your Grand Master. The way was not always easy,
but your help, dedication and support lightened the load.
One of the most enjoyable and pleasant tasks I undertook during this
administration was to raise my youngest son from the dead level to a living
perpendicular.
I am also glad to report that even though my load was heavy Masonically, I
found the time to perform my other community duties, such as the Treasurer
and Steward at my church, and serve on the many other boards as you have
heard mentioned in previous years.
I do not believe that any man can fill this high office of Grand Master and
carry the weight and duties successfully without an ever-present awareness
of his own inadequacies. My greatest desire during this year has been to
serve you faithfully and to be fair and square.
So, let me close by attempting to imprint these thoughts upon the altars of
your hearts: Live a life of faithful trust and hope; believe in God’s great
purposes toward the human race; believe in the mighty power of truth and
love; believe that the highest aim of man should be to contribute to the
happiness of others; to relieve pain and suffering; to awaken in others a
heavenly light, that will live and outshine the stars. Finally, brethren,
so live, that when this earthly temple is dissolved, you will have another
building not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Fraternally Submitted,
/s/Billy V. Morris
BILLY V. MORRIS
Most Worshipful Grand Master
