James E. Bungard, REGC
Editor: SK L Roughgarden: lenrough@gmail.com
Good Sir Knights of the New Mexico Division!
September is upon us, and we will shortly be resuming our good Christian works if your Commandery did not take a summer break. Our 1st Quarterly meeting was held on July 25, 2024 followed the next day by our Land of Enchantment Festival which was a huge success, we had a suitable class of 11 candidates and it was my honor and privilege to Knight all 11 as Knights Templar and welcome them into the Valiant and Magnanimous Order of the Temple as Sir Knights.
The success of the festival was attributed to several things, logistics, good planning, timely execution, and effective management of the festival’s various aspects (like food, security, excellent degree work and the facilities). As always, this festival always offers something unique or special, which makes it memorable for all attendees. I received numerous feedbacks and laudatory comments regarding the great experience from all who attended.
I would like to extend my appreciation and gratitude all who contributed their tireless efforts in making it a wonderful event.
The 69th Triennial Conclave was amazing, what an experience. Over 700 Knights Templar participated in this event, it was truly amazing. The biggest event each triennium is the Grand Encampment Conclave. Every three years this gathering is held to select officers, consider legislation, and to generally celebrate this fantastic organization. Business was conducted on Monday and Tuesday, including the introduction of Masonic national and international guests, as well as delegations of all Grand Commanderies, including those outside of the United States. The most important work of Freemasonry happens locally, but we are part of a much greater whole. The excitement and pageantry of a session such as this is a wonderful opportunity to broaden one’s perception, celebrate with Templars from around the world, and participate in the future of our order. It was truly and honor and privilege to be received and represent New Mexico as your REGC.
General Order #3 has been published as it pertains to my state visitation schedule. I will recap it below:
Santa Fe No. 1 Santa Fe December 10, 2024
Pilgrim No. 3 Albuquerque December 16, 2024
Rio Hondo No. 6 Clovis December 8, 2024
Las Cruces No. 11 Las Cruces November 11, 2024
Baldwin No.12 Gallup December 4, 2024
Shiprock No. 15 Farmington December 12, 2024
Two more General Orders will be coming soon, if not already by the time this supplement is posted. General Order #4 is a notification to all students that the Grand Commandry of New Mexico will be offering a $1,000 scholarship. General Order #5 is a reminder to all commandries to submit any Templar awards by the end of October. If there are any questions about these orders, please contact either myself or you can reach out to the Grand Recorder.
Don’t forget about our other upcoming events: Four Corners Royal Arch October 5th in Holbrook, AZ Southwest Regional Conference in Salt Lake City UT, November 1-2, and the Colorado River Fall Festival, October 20-22 in Laughlin NV.
We have a busy schedule ahead! Carry on good Knights!