We gather here brothers as just and upright Masons, with strict charges that we should ever walk and act as such. Prior to this and all of our fraternal undertakings we ask for divine guidance. All Masons must believe in God. Yet, we are not a religion. What we are, is a brotherhood of men who enjoy each other’s company, armed with symbolic teachings that are meant to help us become better men.

This great country that we are privileged to live in, was founded by good God fearing men. But, our country in its efforts to be tolerant toward non-believers has let God be banned from the classroom and indeed often seems poised to ban all governmental references to deity. Now three decades after Time Magazine proclaimed, "God Is Dead" on its cover, it becomes more important than ever for each of us to embrace our respective religions.

I have even acknowledged God in my own "Cowboy" way with the following poem.

"There is no God today he’s gone and dead."

These were the foolish words a young man said

At the end of a steamy summer day

While in the corral awaiting our pay.

Truly it was a discouraging word.

We couldn’t believe what we had just heard.

Angry eyes lit many a sunburned face

As we thought of putting him in his place.

Top Hand said, you’ve been schooled but you can’t see

What is obvious to the boys and me,

When we look out upon the setting sun

Or when watching a colt’s first awkward run.

We all can see God wherever we look,

Even in the stories of our camp cook.

We see his mighty hand in a new calf’s birth

And the majestic beauty of our Earth.

Surely we will suffer and all will die,

During bad times we will all ask God why.

But talk like yours could earn you a muzzle

Or get you tied till you learn this puzzle.

God created all this for a reason,

Surely as weather changes each season.

Take time to think about the times you’ve had

And son don’t you just dwell upon the bad.

Think about your loving mother’s sweet smile.

The fun of riding that first round up mile.

Think back and remember that simple joy

Of your Dad coming home with a new toy.

Remember that loud paint gelding you bought

And about how on that first ride he fought.

Think of each and every pleasure you took

From your training him right and by the book.

Please open your eyes son and don’t be blind.

God is everywhere, he’s easy to find.

When once you’re snugly down under a mound,

You’ll be mighty glad you just looked around.

Only the truly blind can deny that God exists. This moment was meant to encourage you to embrace your faith because by so doing, we will each be better able to live up to the tenets of our fraternity. By being good and Godly Masons we will shine as examples for others. Never doubt, my friends that what you do with your life influences others. As men, Masons, and Americans we should live the words, "In God We Trust".

Masonic Moment, Jacques DeMolay #1390

February 10, 2000 Scott Hill Bumgardner, Master of Ceremonies

P.O. Box 710770

Houston, Texas 77271-0770

713-981-0599