Once again, companions we embark upon a new capitular year and together it will be a great year. Thank-you for electing me to this most high office and as my oath reflected, I will perform to the very best of my ability. Also, my great thanks to the installing team for their outstanding efforts.

As we start out the year, we face many challenges, most of them not new, nor are they very different ITom those of the other Masonic bodies. We all have the challenge of time and money; and we all have the challenge of increasing membership and retaining the interest of those who are already members. To each of you in the Councils, I challenge you, individually, to bring a new member in or bring an old member back. As you work to replace yourself you will also be inspired to improve our organization.

We must strive to improve our ritual and develop, in each Council, the capability of doing at least one of the degrees. In each department there is a degree team; look to your inspector for information as to how to become part of the department degree team, or at least a backup for a regular member. We do not expect the department degree team to do your work, but to work with you to improve your efforts. Our Grand Director of Ritual conducts a School of Instruction for all of the ARCH's your participation as a player or as a supporter is expected.

When you are in need help, do not hesitate to ask me, you're Grand Officer, your Inspector, or a nearby Council for help.

Remember Companions "Not one of us is as good as all of us". Somebody once said "We may not have it all together, but together we have it all".

Together, we can meet the challenges.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Edmund W. Heath
April 29, 2003