OSCAR DE ALFONSO ORTEGA
Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Spain
I would like to offer you all my most sincere and fraternal welcome. My address will be short but full of gratitude and appreciation.
I would like to thank our Illustrious Visitors for their presence, as it makes us feel that we are part of a Universal Brotherhood that does not recognize races, frontiers or languages.
I would also like to thank those who have come from all the corners of Spain. I am aware of the personal and economical effort that you have carried out to fulfill your commitment with Freemasonry.
I would like to show my gratitude to all those Brethren who have worked in the organization of this Grand Assembly, offering their time and dedication in order to make this ceremony run smoothly. I dedicate an affectionate recognition to the Grand Secretary and the staff of the Grand Lodge, Mrs. Elisabeth and Mrs. Puri, who have carried out an impressive work during these weeks, and also for their permanent dedication to our Institution, so often beyond their labour duties. I have to make a special mention to the Grand Director of Ceremonies, R.W.Bro. Stuart Macdonald, and his team of Deputies, Assistants and Provincial Stewards from Valencia, who have offered a great performance.
Finally, I would like to thank all the Brethren in the Grand Lodge of Spain for taking part in today’s elections with maturity, openness and responsibility. Thank you very much indeed.
The Brethren have given me the opportunity to represent and conduct the Order for the next four years. Dear Brethren, I feel so honoured and proud for your decision, democratically adopted.
I have the same motivation than four years ago, and I am certain that the Grand Lodge of Spain will remain in the same path to stability and progress that has already been laid out. Your assistance and support are essential, as without them no aim could ever be achieved. The authority of a Grand Master is nothing without the respect and consideration of their Brethren. And this respect and consideration is not given freely, but you have to gain it day after day, in a constant proof that you are worthy of it. There is no better Judge than your own Brethren, and no better proof than your own actions. I have tried to do my best during these four years, and I feel a great satisfaction that the Brethren have appreciated it.
Thank you very much for your patience, sacrifice and, above all, for the encouragement and effort you place in your Masonic work in order to improve yourselves, to serve the Order, and to honour this Grand Lodge to which you belong.
May the Great Architect of the Universe grant you health, strength and happiness to you and your families. Thank you very much
