10/20/2026
A Personal Reflection on the Lodge of Excellence
This year, I have had the distinct honor and privilege of presiding as Worshipful Master of McKee Lodge No. 144 F&AM in London, Kentucky**. Among the many accomplishments of our Lodge during this Masonic year, none fills me with greater pride than our Lodge being recognized with the **Lodge of Excellence** designation from the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
While the award itself is certainly an honor, what it truly represents is far more important than a plaque on a wall. It represents the dedication, character, and commitment of the men who call McKee Lodge home.
Throughout this year, I have witnessed firsthand a remarkable group of brothers who willingly give their time, talents, and energy not only to improve our Lodge, but to improve themselves. They understand that Freemasonry is not merely something we attend; it is something we live. It is a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, brotherly love, relief, and truth.
The men of McKee Lodge No. 144 continually challenge themselves to become better husbands, fathers, sons, friends, neighbors, and citizens. They invest in Masonic education, participate in charitable endeavors, support one another in times of need, and seek opportunities to make a positive difference in our community. Their efforts remind me that the true strength of a Lodge is found not in its building, but in the character of its members.
Receiving the Lodge of Excellence recognition is not a declaration that we have reached perfection. Rather, it acknowledges that we have chosen not to become comfortable with mediocrity. We have committed ourselves to continual improvement and faithful labor in the quarries of life.
As Worshipful Master, I recognize that no single mason earns such an honor. No one man can build a temple alone. This achievement belongs to every brother who attended meetings, participated in degree work, mentored a new Mason, contributed to a community project, supported a fellow brother, or simply showed up ready to work for the good of the Craft.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside such an exceptional group of men. Their dedication has made this year both successful and memorable. More importantly, their example demonstrates what Freemasonry is intended to be: good men striving together to become better men.
To the brethren of McKee Lodge No. 144, thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving as your Worshipful Master. Your commitment to the principles of our fraternity and your willingness to make a difference in the lives of others have made this recognition possible. I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished together.
May we continue our labors with humility, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the work that lies ahead, remembering that the greatest measure of excellence is not what we receive, but what we give.
Fraternally,
John S. Collier
Worshipful Master
McKee Lodge No. 144 F&AM
London, Kentucky
“The award may bear the name of the Lodge, but the honor belongs to the brothers whose labor earned it."
