The Supreme Council has adopted a strategic plan to guide
all Scottish Rite entities in setting and achieving goals.

It’s that time again—the holidays are upon us. It seems only a few weeks ago that I finally got the Christmas tree down, the decorations stored, and my clothes back from the tailor with additional “breathing room” (as they tactfully put it). Now, here we go again. The holidays cause the making of many lists—wish lists, shopping lists, grocery lists, and the burgeoning “to do” list. I almost need a list of lists!

Following shortly after the holidays is my list of New Year’s Resolutions. Boy I hate that one! Primarily because I know my performance will not match my intentions in the coming year.

Realistic resolutions are good, though. They lead us to assess where we are, to consider where we would like to be, and to devise a plan to get there. In their best sense, resolutions represent a strategic long range plan, for our lives. Granted, we might fail to achieve a goal, but at least we’re on the way—taking charge of ourselves and being proactive rather than reactive to the events in our lives.

I’m happy to report that the Scottish Rite for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States has adopted a long-range strategic plan, a set of resolutions you might say. Styled “Building Our Future on the Traditions of the Past,” the plan calls upon each Scottish Rite entity—from the Valley to the Supreme Council to assess realistically where we are, where we want to be, and how we can get there. In short this is a plan to enhance the value of Scottish Rite membership for each Mason. Equally important, we recognize the great traditions and heritage of the Rite, and we rededicate ourselves to preserving our solid foundation—the essence of who and what we are.

Our strategic plan has developed over a two year period and nears finalization. A summary of it appears elsewhere in this issue of the Scottish Rite Journal. As we consider “New Year’s resolutions” for the Rite, wouldn’t it be desirable to enhance the positive image of Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite in the eyes of the public? Shouldn’t we support and expand our philanthropic activities? Wouldn’t fulfilling the promise of additional Masonic knowledge through training and Masonic education be a worthwhile endeavor? Can’t we provide a framework for effective leadership to ensure stability and long-term success of the Fraternity? Finally, do our financial processes demonstrate wise use of our assets? These are some of our “resolutions” as we enter the New Year and beyond.

I am excited, and challenged, at the prospect of where this quest might take us. I believe that we have a vital message to offer men of today’s generation that is just as timely and relevant as in the days of their fathers and grandfathers.

Over the next few months, you will hear much about the Scottish Rite strategic plan. At our spring regional workshops we will feature the details and specifics of how you can get involved and help in this great effort. Our workshops are scheduled in Houston on March 17–19, in Atlanta on April 21–23, and in San Francisco on May 19–21. Watch for more details in the Journal, our Web site, and through your local Valley.

Yes, this is a time of lists, a time for planning and focus. I’m pleased that the Scottish Rite has accepted this challenge, and I invite you to join with me in this worthwhile endeavor.