A letter has been issued by M.W. Richard Stewart, Grand Master of Massachusetts, about the Boston Marathon bombing and its aftermath:
Dear Brother
I believe you share my shock and horror at what took place in Boston on Patriots’ Day near the finish line of the 117th Boston Marathon – less than one mile from the front door of the Boston Masonic building and the home of your Grand Lodge. My thoughts and prayers are with the individuals who have been impacted by this event; my deepest appreciation and gratitude go out to those who ran towards the scene to help while others – understandably – ran away.
It is completely foreign to the values we hold as Freemasons that someone would premeditate so base a crime. Since we may never fully understand why this occurred, it makes sense for us focus our attention and energy on doing something positive. We are taught that relieving the distressed is a duty incumbent on all men.
We have received a number of inquiries asking what can be done. The first reaction many had was to give blood. Massachusetts Freemasons have a long tradition of supporting the American Red Cross and being one of their largest donors. They have reported sufficient supplies for their immediate needs, but the demand will not end after the dust settles. Their need is ongoing. I encourage you to consider giving blood next week, next month, and next year.
For those who would prefer to make a financial contribution, Massachusetts’ Governor Deval L. Patrick and Boston’s Mayor Thomas E. Menino announced the formation of The One Fund Boston, Inc. to help the people most affected by the events. To learn more or to make a contribution to The One Fund Boston, visit theonefundboston(dot)org.
As of this writing, we have not heard any reports of the bombings directly impacting members of our fraternity. I pray this does not change. If you have different information, please contact the Grand Lodge Service Department as a potential resource for assistance. R.W. Ernest A. Pearlstein, Director, 617.426.6040, and Wor. Frank J. Kautz II, Chairman, 781.933.3507 are ready to serve you. May the Great Architect of the Universe bless you and your family; may he continue to bless our men and women who are protecting our great country so that we may enjoy the freedom to practice the Masonry we so dearly love.
Fraternally,
M.W. Richard J. Stewart
Grand Master
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