September has always seemed to me to be a season of renewal. Although January is traditionally associated with new beginnings, there is something about the arrival of autumn that encourages us to refocus our attention and return to familiar routines with a renewed sense of purpose. Across Saskatchewan, the harvest begins in earnest, students return to their studies, and our Lodges once again come alive with the sound of gavels, ritual, and fellowship.
For many of us, the summer months have provided an opportunity to rest, spend time with family, and enjoy the beauty of our province. Those moments of renewal are important, for they prepare us for the work that lies ahead. As we gather once again in our Lodge rooms, we return not simply to meetings, but to the continuing work of making good men better—and, just as importantly, allowing Freemasonry to continue making each of us a better man.
Throughout this year I have spoken about my theme, It Starts With Me. September seems the perfect time to ask ourselves what those words truly mean as we begin another active Masonic season. Every successful Lodge depends upon Brethren who are willing to contribute—not because they have to, but because they choose to. A welcoming smile to a visiting Brother, careful attention to our ritual, serving on a committee, mentoring a newer Mason, or simply being present when the Lodge needs us are all reminders that the strength of our fraternity is built one Brother at a time.
It is easy to believe that someone else will fill the chairs, organize the event, mentor the candidate, or make the phone call. Yet experience teaches us that vibrant Lodges are created by Brethren who quietly decide, "If something needs to be done, I will help." Those decisions rarely receive applause, but they form the foundation upon which every successful Lodge is built.
As harvest continues across our province, it reminds us that we gather only what has first been planted and carefully tended. The same is true within Freemasonry. The spirit of fellowship we enjoy, the quality of our meetings, and the future of our Lodges are all the result of seeds planted through service, kindness, and commitment. The harvest we hope to see tomorrow depends upon the efforts we make today.
As we begin this new Masonic season together, I encourage each of us to reflect upon the contribution only we can make. No Brother can do everything, but every Brother can do something. When each of us accepts that responsibility with humility and enthusiasm, our Lodges flourish, our jurisdiction grows stronger, and our Craft continues to prosper.
May this new season of labour bring renewed friendships, meaningful work, and opportunities to support one another in the true spirit of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
Thank you, Brethren, for your continued dedication to Freemasonry in Saskatchewan. It is both an honour and a privilege to serve as your Grand Master, and I look forward to visiting many of your Lodges in the months ahead.
Fraternally,
Mike Keogan
Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan 2026-27
Mike Keogan
Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan 2026-27
Until next month, may we each remember that the work of Freemasonry always begins with one Brother. It starts with me.