James E. Bungard
Right Eminent Grand Commander
Sir Knights!
The Grand sessions have concluded and a new Templar year for New Mexico has begun. Thank you to all the Sir Knights that have accepted appointment to the grand lines and congratulations to all the elected officials. It was great to have the Right Eminent Grand Treasurer SK Bobby Simmons, GCT representing SK David Joseph Kussman Most Eminent Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America and the Right Eminent Southwest Department Commander SK T. J. Robertson of the Grand Encampment of the Knights Templar of the United States of America in attendance at our humble sessions. The Holy Land Pilgrimage dinner and fundraiser was a huge success and well attended. Thank you also to REPGC James Lamb for his support and dedication to Templary in New Mexico. I am humbled and enthusiastic to represent New Mexico as your Grand Commander and hope for a very prosperous year. Please allow us some time to update the website as we have updated to the new operating system and are continuing to migrate to a new host.
As we reflect on the profound significance of Jesus’ ascension into heaven. We commemorate this pivotal moment in the Christian Faith. Through his ascension, Jesus demonstrates his victory over sin and death, triumphantly reclaiming his rightful place at the right hand of the Father. In his exaltation, Jesus reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords, offering hope and salvation to all who believe in him.
Jesus’ ascension serves as a reminder of his ongoing presence with us through the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus promised to send the Advocate to be with us, his ascension inaugurates the age of the Spirit, empowering us to proclaim the Gospel boldly and to live as faithful disciples of Christ.
Let us rejoice in the ascension of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Let us lift up our hearts in praise and adoration, acknowledging the majesty and sovereignty of the risen Christ. And let us go forth with confidence, knowing that Jesus goes before us, preparing a place for us in his Father’s house.
Ascension Day is typically celebrated on the sixth Thursday or thirty-nine days after Easter Sunday. In 2024, this date would be May 9.
I highly encourage all Christian Sir Knights celebrate this glorious event by attending a service offered by a local place of worship, your local Commandry, or some type of virtual service. May the God of Love and Peace delight to dwell with and bless you all!