By Billy Joe Smith, Grand Master

It is with a deep sense of humility and a great feeling of pride, that I humbly accept the position of Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi. No man rises to such a lofty position on his own. With that in mind, I would like to thank first and foremost the Lord God Almighty. I would also like to thank the Grand Lodge Officers and mem­bers, for allowing me the privilege of serving as Grand Master for 2006. Last but not least I would like to thank my wife, Linda and Family for their Love and support. I will serve this office with the dignity and respect that it deserves. I will make myself available to your needs and requests, as time will allow. Without your support we cannot move forward. My theme this year will be "A Time To Rebuild", not only the Gulf Coast but Masonry as well.

After the devastation of hurricane Katrina I have seen first hand how strong Masonry is not only in our state but from others as well. It proved to me that if we can stand strong after Katrina we will stand strong forever. Let us be seen in our communities helping our fellowman and let them see that mason's are outstanding leaders and pillars in our communities. While we mourn our lost, we look ahead with renewed purpose and confidence to a future rich in rebuilding Masonry. Though the road may be long and challenging, I am confident that together we will succeed.

There has been much talk about rebuild­ing in the aftermath of Katrina the storm that nearly annihilated parts of our state. We have and will continue to come to the aid of our Brethren and Widows in need.

With so much to be done, where do we start rebuilding? We start at the beginning, with the basics. Together we can aid and assist in rebuilding our Lodges. We can help, aid, and assist our communities in rebuilding and in the process, demonstrate to communities that Masonry is a caring organization. We should now be ready to stretch forth the hand of charity and help to relieve our brethren in distress. Masonry has instructed us well for this task. As Master masons we have all of the working tools at our disposal.  We only need to use them. We can use these tools everyday by recalling our obligations and putting those principals into practice. The designs are on the Trestle Board, our work is clear.  At this time, in this place, who is better suited to help our fellowman rebuild than us, The Builders.

As we marvel at the glorious days of spring, let us keep in mind that everywhere we look there is a rebirth of God's creation; with the trees and flowers in full blooming splendor.  Let us take advantage of this opportunity presented to us to share in the magnificent blessings that surround us. Let not one flower or tree go without notice or one glorious day pass without praising God for allowing us to take part in it.

I encourage all Masonic Lodges to gather their members, families and friends for a day of fun. Invite your Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts. Encourage everyone to take part in a good old southern BBQ, picnic, or Family Day. We can use this as a special time of fellowship and as a renewal of our commitments to our families and lodges

"A Time To Rebuild” is my theme this year. I will be mailing to all Mississippi Masons this month a personal gift from me; a magnetic Masonic Emblem inscribed: 'Mississippi Freemasonry" A Time To Re­build. Let us display these proudly as we work toward rebuilding Masonry and our Lodges, I would humbly express that all Mississippi Masons respond to this years Grand Lodge appeal; it will not only help our Grand Lodge but our subordinate Lodges as well. After the devastation of hurricane Katrina the Masons of Mississippi and sister jurisdictions have come to the aid and assistance of our distressed worthy brethren, widows and fami­lies. To have the ability to assist others is a rich blessing indeed. To relieve the distressed is a duty incumbent on all men, but particularly on Masons. We are taught in Masonry that what we do for ourselves, will soon be forgotten but what we do for others will extend beyond the grave through the boundless realm of eternity. We have accomplished much and there is much more to be done; by working together we will succeed. Many of our Masons and Widows in south Mississippi are now living in FEMA trailers. While this has been an improvement in the living conditions for many, they are still not home. Let us do what we can to bring our Masonic families home both in their respected lodges and physical addresses. The need is still strong for our prayers and assistance. Keep in mind as we move forward with our lives that there are others still in need. May God Bless Us All.