Senate Resolution No. 1836

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117 of Mount
Vernon, New York, upon the occasion of hosting its
Annual Widows Breakfast

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those fraternal organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
citizens of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117 of Mount Vernon, New York upon the occasion
of hosting its Annual Widows Breakfast on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the
Macedonia Community Center in Mount Vernon; and

WHEREAS, The Free and Accepted Masons are the oldest fraternal
organization in the world, dating back some 3,000 years; Saint Joseph
Lodge No. 117, Free and Accepted Masons, has been successful for 71
years because throughout its distinguished history, it has continuously
been a great influence in the community by providing leadership, a
principled way of life deeply-rooted in a system of values, social
benevolence, emphasis on individual excellence, and its serving as a
stabilizing force in the community; and

WHEREAS, Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117 was founded in 1953 in Mount
Vernon, New York, in the basement of Deacon William Grant of Mt. Zion
Church; the first Worshipful Master of the lodge was Herbert Grant (22),
then Charles Webb (5), and finally Willie Gibson (4); Saint Joseph Lodge
No. 117 was a member of the Alpha Grand Lodge of New York City; and

WHEREAS, The principle of freemasonry compel these dedicated lodge
members to dispense charity while maintaining integrity and honesty in
their communities; belief in God, family, and community are the core
values of their institution; and

WHEREAS, The Widows Breakfast was established to pay honor and just
tribute to the widows of the members of Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117, and
has remained a staple of the lodge as an annual event not only of
remembrance, but of respect to those who have passed on, and thanks to
the beloved partners who supported them in their journey and good
community works; and

WHEREAS, From time to time, this Legislative Body takes note of
certain altruistic organizations it wishes to acknowledge for their
philanthropic and community-oriented contributions to our society which
enhance the basic humanity among us all; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proudly moved to honor and commend
the members of Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117, Free and Accepted Masons,
past and present, along with their dedicated partners who have labored
so conscientiously to secure and improve the quality of life for the
community it serves; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117 of Mount Vernon, New York, upon the
occasion of hosting its Annual Widows Breakfast; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Saint Joseph Lodge No. 117.