With the utmost honor and a profound sense of privilege, I addressed

all Mechanics, including Sir Knights Companions, Families, and friends,

on this momentous occasion of our annual St. John’s Day Worship.

As we reflect on the Spirituality of our Patron Saint, St. John the Baptist

of Jerusalem, we, Sir Knights Companions, should endeavor to magnify

his teachings and principles.

Who was St. John the Baptist of Jerusalem?

He was of a Priestly descent. His father, Zachariah, was a priest of the

course of Abia (1 Chronicle 24: 10), and His Mother, Elizabeth, was the

daughter of Aaron (Luke 1: 5)

His mission?

 “The forerunner for our Lord” Prophecy (Matthew 3:3) (Isaiah 40 : 3 )

His birth, which took place six months before the birth of Christ, Was

foretold by an Angel. His father, Zachariah, was deprived of his speech

as a token of God’s truth and a reproof of his own incredulity with

reference to the birth of his Son. He had the power speech restored to

him on the occasion of his circumcision. (Luke 1: 64)

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, said of St. John the Baptist, "Verily I

say unto you, among them that is born of women, there hath not risen

any greater than St. John the Baptist, notwithstanding he that is least

In the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he. (Matthew 11: 11)

My fellow Companions, I entreat you to be of one mind, follow in the

footsteps of our beloved Patron, St. John the Baptist, and love each

other as Christ loves us. Let us be our brothers and sisters' keepers,

extending love and unity to our families and all those we encounter in

our daily lives.

The Executive Grand Councilors, our families, and I extend our heartfelt

gratitude to all Companions Sir Knights Mechanics and their families on

this St. John Day. We are blessed to have each one of you in our lives,

and we pray that the Great Architect of the Universe continues to watch

over us and bless the Independent United Order of Mechanics, Friendly

Society Western Hemisphere Incorporated.

Fraternally yours,

Rt. Hon. Errol G. Collins

Most Worshipful Grand Master

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