HR0185 100TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0185 LRB100 11648 MST 22476 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to recognize the 150th anniversary of the founding of Virginia Masonic Lodge #544 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons in 2017; and

WHEREAS, Virginia Masonic Lodge #544 was formally organized on April 3, 1867, and its charter was issued on October 1, 1867; its current building opened in 1983; and

WHEREAS, Gustave F. Hillig, a Civil War veteran, was elected as the first Worshipful Master and served in the position a total of 12 times; Robert H. Mann was the second-longest serving Worshipful Master with a total of 11 terms; and

WHEREAS, Lodge members have served as mayors, aldermen, city attorneys, and in the judiciary; some have served in other public offices, including county clerk, county board member, state legislator, and Congress; they have served in every branch of the United States military; and

WHEREAS, Lodge members support orphanages, scholarships, and families in need; members are strong supporters of education; all three cornerstones for Virginia's high schools were laid by Masons, most recently on June 7, 2014; and

WHEREAS, Lodge members exemplify the Masonic Mission: "Freemasonry aims to promote Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love among its members. It is, by definition, a fraternity; comprised of men from every race, religion, opinion, and background who are brought together as Brothers to develop and strengthen the bonds of friendship."; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDREDTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the 150th anniversary of the founding of Virginia Masonic Lodge #544 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons in 2017, and we wish them many more successful years; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the members of Virginia Masonic Lodge #544.