All things whatsoever ye would that men should
do to you, do ye even so unto them. This "Golden
Rule" is commanded of all men and knows no boundaries
of religion, denomination or nation. It is the very
foundation of Freemasonry throughout the world and
throughout the ages.
Throughout the long and distinguished history
of Roswell Lodge #165 there are numerous examples of
the fundamental principle of brotherly love. As with
charity, brotherly love can be practiced with gifts
of money, but it usually manifests itself in more esoteric
forms. Visits to brethren who have been hospitalized,
Christmas caroling at the homes of widows or brethren
who is shut in during the holidays. Helping those brethren
who are unable to help themselves, and finally graveside
ceremonies celebrating the lives of departed brethren.
Within the pages of Roswell Lodge’s archives
there are wonderful illustrations of that tenet of
brotherly love. In 1947, the lodge assembled to bury
their departed brother, A.W. Ledbetter. According
to the records; “After the opening ceremony
in the lodge, the brethren re-assembled at the graveside
where a most eloquent ceremony was preformed by the
brethren for Bro. A.W. Ledbetter.” Another
instance where the brethren celebrate the departure
of another is the practice of entering into the lodge
records a memoriam page. In the lodge records, a
page is left blank to signify the passing of one
of their own, and a memorial page is inserted, with
a copy being forwarded to the family as well a to
the community paper for publication. The letter is
usually formulated in a way that describes the life
of the brother, information regarding his family
and profession, and always with the quote: “Grieve
not, for those who doeth the masters will shall be
with Him to part no more.”
Another wonderful example of brotherly love is the
visiting of widows, and widows’ night. It is
important for the brethren to remember those wives
who have given so much to the lodge even after their
loved ones have passed. During the Christmas season,
it is the practice of the Lodge to visit these widows
and entertain them with the singing of Christmas
carols. Over the last few years, Past Master Lynn
Hicks and Past Master Jim Maultsby have worked diligently
to make sure that the widows have received gifts
from the lodge. The widows and their families greatly
appreciate all the love and attention that they receive
from the lodge. A card from family members of one
widow highlights just how much the lodge’s
love means to these widows.
Dear Lodge Member.
Thank you so very much for remembering our sister,
Myrtle Adams at the Great Oaks Nursing home at Christmas. The Poinsettia was
real pretty. She has really enjoyed it. Again let us thank you. You are a great
group of men.
Thanks Again.
Hubert and Louise Johnson
Of the many examples of brotherly love that permeate
the pages of Roswell Lodge’s minutes, it is
the outpouring of love that Past Master Hayward Smith
received that truly illustrates the Lodge’s
dedication to the brethren. During the last years
of his life, P.M. Smith was extremely ill, and the
lodge offered prayers for him and his family. There
are multiple examples of the Lodge members visiting
Hayward at the hospital and at his home, as well
as aiding his wife Betty with household needs.11
The lodge even painted the house while Hayward was
interned in the hospital. A letter of unknown date
from Betty illustrates just how helpful the lodge
was during their time of need.
Jim, Tom, Hubert, Steve, Brad, Steve, + everyone
who helped painting the house. It looks so nice.
We sure do appreciate all you all have done.
Hayward will never forget it + says to thank all
of you. He will certainly be surprised when he gets home.
Thanks to all of you again.
Betty and Hayward Smith
The lodge not only helped out Hayward and his family
with their physical labor, but also with the financial
demands of his illness. Another letter from Betty
illustrates this unselfish act.
Worshipful master and Lodge Members.
I want to thank you so much for the check. That
was very generous and so very thoughtful of you.
Hayward and I will never be able to thank you enough.
It will certainly help us so very much. Keep us in your prayers and come and
see Hayward when you can. He will need your support.
Thank you, Betty Smith
Unfortunately, Worshipful Brother Smith passed away
on February 6, 2003. But as with all those who had
gone before him, Hayward was comforted by the knowledge
that his family would always be in the hearts of
the Lodge.
Throughout the years, Roswell Lodge #165 has gone
out of its way to show those who have graced its
hall the love and support that they so truly deserve.
Page upon page of the lodge’s minutes reflects
this love and devotion. Every brother can rely upon
the lodge in their own time of need. Firm in the
knowledge that even after being called to their Maker
that the lodge would endeavor to care for their families.
Next: Morality...
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