As I sit here writing this in mid November it is impossible to believe that my year as Worshipful Master of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 is rapidly drawing to a close! It has been an honor to serve you and our beloved Lodge, but I also have to admit that it has been a great deal of fun as well. I have greatly enjoyed the fellowship and support of the Brethren and have learned a tremendous amount from them. Still, I look forward to passing the gavel to the next Master and enjoying that fellowship and friendship from the sidelines.

I would like to thank especially the 2005 officers for their tireless work and support during the year. We have had a very heavy schedule of degree work that has demanded a lot of extra nights away from home and family. The officers have performed superbly, and I am totally confident of their readiness to move up the line towards the East. I wish them the best of luck in the future.

Also, AW22 could not function without the unselfish contributions of the core of involved members (White Apron Masons, newly minted Master Masons, as well as Past Masters) who are always there for that extra duty, ever ready to stretch forth their hand to sustain a falling Master. Thank you so much for your help and understanding! How I wish we had tenfold your number!

I do not think it an overstatement to say that the very future of this wonderful Lodge is dependent on somehow finding a way to add to this core. To the Brethren who have been unable to attend recently - your lodge desperately needs you to return. I know the incoming Master will have many fine programs that will make your attendance worthwhile. Do please give him your support.

The final Stated Communication of the year will be held on the 8th. We will address my departing message, annual reports, 2006 elections, Masonic birthdays, the memorial service for our departed brethren, and the closing of the Lodge of Sorrow.

On the 14th we will commemorate the passing of our Illustrious Brother, George Washington. Bro Jim Rees, Executive Director of Historic Mount Vernon, has offered to give us a private tour of the new visitors’ center construction site following the ceremony. The center will feature Freemasonry prominently and include many artifacts from our Archives. Following that tour, we will proceed to Collingwood for a reception to include their famous hot cider, a welcome respite from our December weather.

Tuesday, December 27th will be the annual Installation of Officers which will begin the 222nd year of our Historic Lodge. This is an open ceremony – please invite your friends, especially those men who have expressed some interest in the Fraternity, to join you.

Thank you again for the privilege of serving Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22. Brethren, Widows of our deceased Brethren, and friends of our Lodge, I wish you and your families all the best for a wonderful Holiday Season and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Sincerely and fraternally,



Jesse T. McMahan
Worshipful Master

STATED COMMUNICATIONS - The Stated Communications of this Lodge shall be held at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial (GWMNM), Alexandria, Virginia on the second and fourth Thursday of each month except the fourth Thursdays of November and December and for the additional Stated Communications for the observance of George Washington's birthday and December 27th for the installation of officers on Saint John the Evangelist Day.

CALLED COMMUNICATIONS - Usually on Mondays as announced herein.

LODGE RITUAL SCHOOL - Will always occur the Sunday before a Monday Called Communication Degree at 7:00 PM, unless otherwise stated. Additional ritual schools will be announced herein when necessary.

YOUTH MEETINGS AT GWMNM - Alexandria-Washington Chapter, International Order of DeMolay, meets the first and third Sundays at 2 pm in the North Lodge Room. Bethel No. 22, International Order Jobs Daughters, meets the first and third Sundays at 6 pm in the North Lodge Room.

"His Memory In Our Hearts" THOMAS GAYLE LITTLE Senior Warden and the officers and members of ALEXANDRIA-WASHINGTON LODGE No. 22 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons request the honor of your presence at their Installation of Officers for the Masonic year 6006. The public ceremony will be conducted on Tuesday, December 27, 2005 At 7:30 p.m. in the Auditorium of The George Washington Masonic National Memorial Alexandria, Virginia. Black-Tie Optional Reception to follow in the Memorial Assembly Hall.