A resolution has been signed by Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves, Philip Gunn, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Senator Terry C. Burton, District 31,
President Pro Tempore, who is also a Past Master of Evergreen Lodge No. 57, recognizing the upcoming Bicentennial of Freemasonry in Mississippi, along with several appendant Masonic bodies.
The text of the resolution follows, but you can Download a Printable PDF Suitable for Presentation, Here.
Worshipful Brother, Senator Terry C. Burton, District 31
President Pro Tempore, signs the resolution.
The pen, adorned with Masonic Symbols, used by Worshipful Brother Burton to sign the resolution.
An Official Presser was Released, Available Here.
Text of the Resolution
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO.567
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE GRAND LODGE OF MISSISSIPPI OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS UPON THE OCCASION OF THEIR UPCOMING BICENTENNIAL.
WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge of Mississippi of Free and Accepted Masons is an organization dedicated to the ancient landmarks of the Order of Freemasonry; and
WHEREAS, on June 24, 2017, all Masons wheresoever dispersed celebrated 300 years of Freemasonry; and
WHEREAS, on July 27, 1818, the Grand Lodge of Mississippi of Free and Accepted Masons was officially established in Natchez, Mississippi, by delegates from territorial lodges warranted almost 15 years prior to the recognition of the newly established State of Mississippi; and
WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge of Mississippi was prior to 1871 an unincorporated, voluntary association of persons, but in said year and about the 10th day of April, 1871, the Grand Lodge procured a charter in perpetual succession by an act of the Mississippi legislature, which through its principle officers governs and regulates the Masonic fraternity within the State of Mississippi; and
WHEREAS, Masons are taught that all men are equal and individual freedom of thought and action, as well as morality and ethics, are the concepts and ideals upon which the Order is founded; and
WHEREAS, by teaching the great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and through its fellowship, its compassion and its concern, Freemasonry enables men to serve God, family, country, neighbors and self; and
WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge of Mississippi today consists of more than 16,000 Master Masons and 239 Lodges located in nearly every community across the State, as well as other appendant Masonic bodies such as the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and the York Rite, and other affiliated bodies such as Shriners International, National Sojourners, Order of the Eastern Star, DeMolay International, International Order of the Rainbow; and
WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize and commend the success, accomplishments and contributions fine institutions in Mississippi such as the Grand Lodge of Mississippi for its civic contributions and service, as well as to recognize and commend the long legacy of the civic contributions and service of its members.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Grand Lodge of Mississippi F&AM upon the occasion of their upcoming bicentennial, to be held in Natchez, Mississippi, on Friday, July 27, 2018.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be presented to representatives of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi F&AM and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.
ADOPTED BY THE SENATE
January 26, 2018
Signed Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves
President of the Senate
ADOPTED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 6, 2018
Signed Philip Gunn
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Signed Senator Terry C. Burton, District 31
President Pro Tempore
