Charity

Brethren, I stand before you to reflect on a concept that transcends mere generosity—it is the essence of humanity’s better angels, the embodiment of selflessness, and the cornerstone of a compassionate society. I speak of none other than the noble virtue of charity.

Charity is not merely a monetary transaction; it is a manifestation of empathy, a testament to our shared humanity. It is a force that binds us together, weaving a tapestry of kindness that spans across communities, nations, and the entire human family.

In a world often marked by strife and inequality, charity serves as a beacon of hope. It is the outstretched hand reaching into the darkness, offering comfort to those who find themselves in the depths of despair. It is a reminder that, in our shared journey through life, we are not alone. For if men had goodwill in their hearts towards one another, peace would be the result everywhere. The Great Commandment, according to the Master, is to “love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength: and like unto it, the second greatest is to love thy neighbor as yourself.” The Kingdom of which he spoke so often is an idyllic realm in which Charity is the law of the land. A Kingdom in which “Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men” would be the motto for all.

The act of giving, be it time, resources, or compassion, is an affirmation of our interconnectedness as Ma-sons. It is an acknowledgment that the well-being of one is intrinsically tied to the well-being of all. When we engage in acts of charity, we not only alleviate immediate suffering but also contribute to the creation of a more just and harmonious world. As St Thomas Aquinas said, Charity is a choice.

Charity, in its purest form, extends beyond the material realm. It encompasses the sharing of knowledge, the offering of the attentive ear, and the cultivation of understanding. It is about building bridges of empathy that span the gaps of ignorance and misunderstanding, fostering a sense of unity in our diverse global com-munity.

Moreover, charity is not reserved for the affluent or the privileged; [3110897] it is a call to action for every man and Mason, regardless of their station in life. It reminds us that, regardless of our circumstances, we all possess the capacity to make a positive impact. As the saying goes, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

Charity is a force that transforms not only the lives of those who receive but also the hearts of those who give. It is a profound realization that true wealth lies not in the accumulation of possessions but in the enrich-ment of the human spirit. The joy that comes from giving, from making a difference in someone else’s life, is a testament to the boundless potential for goodness within each of us as Masons.

Along with the other working tools we have been given, we must put our trowel to ceaseless use if the Temple we’re building as Masons, is ever to be completed. The Temple of humanity will not build itself. Craftsmen are required. The blueprint on the trestleboard has been drawn by the Great Architect, but it is up to Craftsmen to begin the work and see it through to its completion. Paraphrasing what St. Augustine rightly said, “without God we cannot, without us, God will not”.

Finally, let us embrace the spirit of charity as a guiding principle in our lives. Let us recognize that, in lifting others, we uplift ourselves. As we navigate the intricate web of existence, may we be inspired to be beacons of kindness, sources of support, and agents of positive change. For in charity, we discover the transformative power of love, compassion, and the enduring legacy of a truly benevolent brotherhood. As alluded to in the 18th degree, in the spirit of good Faith and undaunted Hope, may we begin the work and devote our time to the building of the Temple of Humanity; the cornerstone of which is Charity.