WM, WBrethren and Brethren all, this lecture is delivered in
commemoration of my 20^th anniversary in Freemasonry, having been
initiated on the 25^th September 2006

Introduction

WM and Brethren all, in every Masonic Lodge, we are reminded
that masonry is founded upon three grand principles namely Brotherly Love,
Relief and Truth.

They are not just words on the ritual. They are the
foundation of upon which we build both the Lodge and ourselves.

By the exercise of Brotherly Love, we are taught to regard
the whole human species as one family.

1.     
Brotherly Love

Brotherly Love is defined as the genuine affection and regard
we owe to every member of the human race, but especially to a brother Mason.

In practice, it teaches Equality in the Lodge, Toleration and
Loyalty.

Equality in the Lodge

When we meet on the level, titles, wealth, and background are
set aside. King and commoner sit together.

Toleration

We differ in religion, politics and tribe, yet we meet as
brothers. That is Brotherly Love.

Loyalty

To stand by a brother in good report and in bad, to defend
his character in his absence. (Ref: FPOF)

The point within a circle with two perpendicular lines teach
us to keep within due bounds and practice Brotherly Love to all.

2. Relief

To relieve the distress is a duty incumbent on all men, but particularly
Masons.

In Masonry we practice three types of Relief which are
Material Relief, Emotional Relief and Community Relief.

Material Relief

This is done by helping a brother, widow or orphan in times
of need as charity is the cornerstone of our profession.

Emotional Relief

A listening ear, counsel and comfort to a brother burdened.
“Bear ye one another’s burden”. These are words you will find recorded in
Paul’s letter to the Galatians chapter 6 verse 2.

Community Relief

Lodges in our District have a long history of supporting
schools, hospitals and disaster relief in Sierra Leone and The Gambia.

Relief is not just giving money. It is giving time, skill and
compassion. A mason does not wait to be asked.

3. Truth

Truth is a divine attribute and the foundation of every
virtue. To be a good man and true. In practice we ought to be true to
ourselves, to others and to Freemasonry. Not forgetting to be true to the Great
Architect of the Universe.

Truth to self: Let me borrow words from the motto of our Sister
School, the Albert Academy, “Esse Quam Videri”. To be, rather than to seem. It
implies that one should have integrity when no one is watching.

Truth to others: This teaches us about honesty in business,
keeping our word and speaking the truth in love.

Truth in Freemasonry: This is done by seeking knowledge,
studying the liberal arts and sciences and searching for light. The 24 inch
Gauge reminds us to divide our time by giving eight hours to God, eight hours
in labour and refreshment, and eight hours in serving a friend or brother in
time of need.

How do these three virtues work together?

They are inseparable. Without Brotherly Love, Relief becomes
cold charity. Without Relief, Brotherly love is just words. Without Truth, both
Brotherly Love and Relief have no foundation.

Together they make the Lodge a family and they make the Mason
a better man in society.

How do we apply these in the District in general and to our
Lodge in particular?

WM and Brethren all, we face real challenges: hardship,
division and misinformation.

Our call is to love each other across Lodges and
constitutions. Relieve by supporting education and health projects in our
communities. Speak truth with integrity in our Lodges, places of work and our
homes.

Conclusion

In concluding WM and brethren all, Brotherly love, Relief and
Truth are not degrees to be taken once. They are degrees to be lived daily.

Let us leave this Lodge determined to practice them more
perfectly. For in doing so, we honour the Craft, we help our fellow man and we
glorify the Great Architect of the Universe.

May Brotherly Love prevail and every moral and social virtue
cement us. SMIB.