My first month as your Grand Master has been rewarding, albeit at a slower pace due to most lodges being in summer recess. I was proud to lead the Masonic Rites ceremony at the funeral service for MW Bro. Jack Colenutt. My first two official visits were at Corinthian Lodge No. 72 and Elfros Lodge No. 145. Both meetings were well attended, and I thank all the Brethren who were able to join us. I also attended the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario along with RW Bro. Gord Davey, your Deputy Grand Master. We were treated with great hospitality and the fraternal relations that we formed with brethren from across the Country will serve us and our jurisdiction well in the future. Lastly, I attended the 140th anniversary celebration for Indian Head Lodge No. 5. This was a very special occasion that was attended by brethren from many lodges in the jurisdiction. I was proud to be amongst my brothers on this auspicious occasion.
August often feels like a bridge between seasons. The warmth of summer remains with us, yet there are signs that autumn is waiting just beyond the horizon. The harvest season approaches; families begin preparing for new routines and many of our Lodges start looking ahead to the resumption of a fuller schedule of activities.
This time of year naturally invites reflection. Before the pace of life begins to accelerate once again, we are given an opportunity to consider where we have been, where we are going and what kind of example we hope to set for those around us.
My theme for this year, “It Starts With Me,” continues to challenge and inspire me. It reminds me that the strength of our Lodges and our fraternity is built upon the individual efforts of each Brother. While we often think of Freemasonry in terms of collective accomplishment, every success begins with a personal decision to contribute, participate and serve.
One of the lessons I continue to learn is the value of steadiness. Not every day brings great accomplishments or memorable moments. Much of life’s most important work happens quietly and consistently. A kind word, a phone call to a Brother, an offer of assistance or simply showing up when needed can have a lasting impact. These small actions rarely make headlines, yet they strengthen the bonds that unite us.
As harvest season approaches, we are reminded that we ultimately reap what we sow. The same principle applies to our personal lives and to our Craft. The time we invest, the relationships we nurture and the examples we set today will shape the future we experience tomorrow. If we wish to see stronger Lodges, deeper friendships and greater harmony, we must be willing to cultivate those qualities ourselves.
The coming months will bring renewed opportunities for fellowship, learning and service. As we prepare for that season, I encourage each of us to consider how we can contribute to the success and well-being of our Lodges and our communities. The answer may be different for each of us, but the starting point remains the same.
As Autumn approaches and our lodges come out of recess, I look forward to meeting with you in your lodges on my visits.
Fraternally,
Mike Keogan
Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan 2026-27