The following press release was issued today by the Masonic Service Association of North America:
Congratulations, Brother Braatz!
George O. Braatz was selected recently as the new Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association of North America by MSA’s Executive Commissioners.
Brother Braatz is a Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary Emeritus of the Grand Lodge of Ohio.
He succeeds Richard E. Fletcher, who is retiring after 24 years of service as the chief operating officer of the MSA. Brother Fletcher is a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Vermont and has been recognized nationally as a leading voice speaking on behalf of Freemasonry.
The MSA, was formed in 1919 and now headquartered in Silver Spring, MD, provides educational material, statistical reports, Disaster Relief and administers a Hospital Visitation Program across North America.
Brother Braatz, who has served for many years on the steering committee of MSA’s Masonic Information Center, is also currently a member of the board of directors of the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, VA. Over the years, he has been active in numerous Masonic activities at state and national levels.
The Executive Commissioners of MSA began a search for a new Executive Secretary in the fall of 2010 after Brother Fletcher submitted his resignation. Announcement was made to all member jurisdictions of MSA and a deadline of June 1, 2011 was set for the acceptance of applications by the executive commissioners.
Nearly 20 distinguished brothers expressed interest in the position and submitted resumes and/or letters of qualifications.
After reviewing the written materials, Executive Commissioners cast ballots to determine the two finalists for the position who were interviewed at the board’s semi-annual meeting in Silver Spring last month.
Brother Braatz emerged as the board’s designee.
The Executive Commissioners of MSA are extremely excited in this selection and look forward to the continuing service of MSA to all member jurisdictions and Masonry in general with the support of Brother Braatz as executive secretary, Chairman William G. Roberts, PGM of Nevada said this week.
“We strongly acknowledge the leadership of M.W. Brother Fletcher during his nearly-quarter-century of service to MSA and wish him God speed in a well-deserved period of retirement among family and friends.”
William J. Roberts, PGM (NV)
Chairman Executive Commissioners
Congratulations, Brother Braatz!
