Worshipful Masters, Wardens, Officers, and Brethren All.

As we begin a new Masonic year, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside each of you. The strength of our district is found not only in our Lodges and traditions, but in the men who give their time, talents, and hearts to Freemasonry. It is in that spirit of appreciation, fellowship, and shared purpose that I write to you today.

Serving in this position is both an honor and a responsibility. I am grateful for the confidence you have placed in me, and I look forward to working with all of you in the year ahead.

Our success will depend on our willingness to support one another. To the Worshipful Masters and officers of our Lodges, thank you for accepting the responsibility to lead. Your service requires time, preparation, patience, and commitment. Through your example, you strengthen your Lodges and our district.

To the Past Masters and experienced Brethren, thank you for the wisdom and guidance you continue to provide. Your knowledge helps preserve our traditions and prepares the next generation of Masons to serve.

To our newer Brethren, thank you for bringing enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and renewed energy to our Craft. Become involved, ask questions, accept opportunities to serve, and continue learning. You are not only the future of Freemasonry; you are an important part of its present.

During the year ahead, let us remain focused on the values that unite us: brotherhood, integrity, charity, service, and personal improvement. Let us support our Lodges by attending meetings, participating in activities, encouraging one another, and reaching out to Brethren who may have become less active.

A strong district is built one Brother at a time. It grows when we visit one another’s Lodges, share ideas, assist with challenges, and celebrate each other’s accomplishments. Our differences are less important than the common bond we share as Masons.

I also want to recognize the families and loved ones who support our Masonic commitments. Their patience, encouragement, and understanding make our service possible. Please extend to them our sincere appreciation.

My commitment to you is to serve this district with fairness, respect, and dedication. I will do my best to support each Lodge, assist our officers, encourage cooperation, and create opportunities for fellowship, learning, and service.

I ask each of you to join me in making this a year of unity and progress. Support your Lodge and its officers. Reach out to the Brother who has not attended recently. Encourage the new Mason who is still finding his place. Share your knowledge, give your time, and never underestimate the difference one Brother can make in the life of another.

If we work together with a common purpose, we can strengthen our Lodges, serve our communities, and ensure that Freemasonry continues to make a positive difference in the lives of those around us.

Thank you for your friendship, your support, and your willingness to serve. Above all, thank you for allowing me the privilege of calling you Brother.

May the year ahead bring continued growth to our Lodges, renewed enthusiasm to our Brethren, and greater unity throughout our district. May the Great Architect of the Universe bless you, your families, our Lodges, and our district.

Fraternally,
R.W. Bro. James A. Lee
District Deputy Grand Master · 2026–2027, Victoria District