A Message from the Grand Master
COL David N. Appleby, Grand Master IV
Dear Templars,
We are so fortunate and have so many opportunities! Our world has changed, and we are each changed with it. But what do we do now?
I have been reading and hearing a lot about how happy we all are to have 2020 behind us. It was a tough year, the pandemic, natural disasters, political strife, social injustice, persecution of Christians, homeless/unemployed/abandoned people, lack of food and water for many--the list of challenges seems endless. So happy we may be to ut 2020 behind us, but, in truth, none of the challenges are behind us. These are the same challenges that mankind has dealt with for millenniums.
What are we to do as Templars, and citizens of the world? Our manual states that every member is expected to contracture to the life and activities of the Order according to his or her talents and Possibilities. Tough to do when many of us are still restricted to our homes. But it is possible for us to do the simple things that show our Christian spirit to others. We must lean on one another for moral, and sometimes physical, support. A phone call or text or email to see how our Brothers and Sisters, family and friends are doing. As our Brothers and Sisters in the holy lands have often shared, just knowing there are others thinking of them and praying for them gives hope for a better tomorrow. And while you are doing this, please expecially rmember the families of our Templars who have passed this year-when we have so many problems ourselves, it is often hard to think about others-but this is our mission, and we must fulfill it. Why? Because if we do not, who will? Yes, there are churches and other charitable organizations, but the needs cannot always be met by organizations-ofthen it is the individual effort that makes the most difference. I pray that each of you will rise to the occasion and reach out to others with real love and support. I have often said that as an organization, OSMTH is making a positive difference in the lives of others.
We are in this together. Please do your part to bring comfort and hope to those around you.
Non nobis, Domine, non nobis,,
Grand Master David Appleby
OSMTH
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