Steward Committee Report Whitney Lodge #229 F. & A.M. October 25, 2000             In September 2000 it was suggested by the Senior Deacon, Brother William Garrett, that a Steward’s Committee be formed for the incoming members of Whitney Lodge.  His idea was originated from The Grand Lodge of Maine's web site [This is one of the great Masonic web sites on the Net. Check it out. Whitney Webmaster.] that had a similar, but more mandatory, committee. (See original letter) This idea was modified into its present form. (See current Invitation Letter) It is the custom of Whitney Lodge to present all of our new members a key to the lodge building at the conclusion of their Master Mason degree work.  In addition to this key, an invitation letter is now also presented to the new brother asking him to volunteer to serve on the Steward’s Committee.  The Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden, and the Junior Warden sign this letter.             The invitation to serve on the committee is voluntary.  We ask the new members to arrive at Lodge approximately one hour before the meetings and assist the officers in the preparation for the events of the evening.  We ask the new members to serve on this committee for the period covering the next three stated meetings, or approximately ninety days.  It is stressed that this invitation is not made to make the new members shoulder a heavy portion of the work in the Lodge Room, building, or dining facility but it is done so that they may become better acquainted with the work that is done in preparation for a degree.  Our goal is to improve the new members in Masonic knowledge and help them build the bonds of brotherly love and friendship with their fraternity. Since the inception of this idea, we have experienced strong participation on the committee.  On Wednesday October 4, 2000 a clean up was held at the Lodge building.  The new members were contacted and at least six of them arrived and assisted with cleaning walls, floors, and the preparation room.  Other maintenance tasks were also performed that evening.  The clean up activity was open to all members of the Lodge and several attended.  This was a good opportunity for the new members, officers, and other members to work together in the care and upkeep of the Lodge. Also, participation of the new members at called and stated meetings has increased.  We are now making plans to track the participation of the new members as they serve on this committee.  On October 18, 2000 five new members attended the stated meeting.  The officers of Whitney Lodge #229 look forward to the continued success of this new committee. Respectfully submitted, Todd A. Hamilton Senior Steward, Whitney Lodge #229 F. & A.M.