To all the Masons of Texas and their families:
 
This is the time of the year we celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah. For the Christian faith it is the time to celebrate the birth of Jesus and for the Jewish faith a time to celebrate rededication and the Festival of Lights.
 
For those of us who are Christians, the birth of Christ nearly 20 centuries ago is the fulfillment of age-old prophecies and the reaffirmation of God's great love for all of us. Through a generous Heavenly Father's gift of His Son, hope and compassion entered a world weary with fear and despair and changed it for all time. On Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ with prayer, feasting, and great merriment. It is a time of celebration and gift giving, but, most of all, we experience that most precious gift of love in our hearts.
 
For our Jewish Brethren, the celebration of Hanukkah brings forth the festival of lights and rededication. It celebrates the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil burning for eight days. It too is a time for celebration and gift giving.
 
We should reflect on these special times throughout the year whenever faith overcomes doubt, hope conquers despair, and love triumphs over hate. They are present when men of any creed bring love and understanding to the hearts of their fellow man. The feeling is seen in the wondrous faces of children and in the hopeful eyes of the aged. Joy overflows the hearts of cheerful givers and the souls of the caring. These celebrations are reflected in the brilliant colors, joyful sounds, and beauty of the winter season. Let us resolve to honor the spirit of these celebrations and strive to keep them throughout the year.
 
We are continually thankful for the men and women of our armed force who continue to preserve our liberties and for the sacrifices of their families during their service.

 
May God bless each of you and your families during this season and may the New Year bring happiness and prosperity to all.
 
T. E. "Gene" Carnes
Deputy Grand Master