BRYAN HOFFMAN
My Pythian Family, Friends, and Guests...
It is with deep honor and humility that I accept the privilege of serving as your Grand Chancellor of the Domain of New York.
Thank you all for being here this evening at the Investiture — and for giving me the opportunity to share my message with you.
My vision for the future of our beloved Order is simple, yet powerful —
“Health and Friendship.”
I encourage every one of us to focus on our health and well-being — so we can remain active, engaged, and able to promote the value that binds us: Friendship.
Because that friendship — when nurtured — becomes the spark that welcomes others in.
And membership, as we know, is the lifeline of our future.
A New Twist on an Old Saying
You’ve heard the saying:
“Feed them and they will come.”
We often joke about it… but there’s truth in it.
That said — maybe it’s time we consider offering a few healthier choices at our collations. It’s a small change, but a meaningful one — a way to support each other’s well-being.
It might not be the most popular statement...
...but it’s been made.
Friendship & Unity
Friendship is the “F” in our shield.
Let’s carry that value with us — in our meetings, our gatherings, and our service. Let’s also remember a key lesson:
“Avoid anger and dissension.”
We need one another. We must work together, united by a common goal:
To help people.
Supporting Veterans, Growing Our Order
I’m currently working to partner with a group that supports veterans — helping them transition to civilian life after serving our country.
If this succeeds, not only can we support those who have sacrificed for us — it could also open the door to future Pythians.
Membership Growth Initiatives
We’re teaming up with the Membership Committee to canvas temples, churches, and other community organizations where our members live.
We’re also exploring a partnership with the Sports Committee to sponsor local Little League teams — helping us connect with families and, potentially, future members.
If you have a membership idea — bring it forward.
All suggestions are welcome.
Continued Humanitarian Efforts
Our humanitarian efforts will continue through the various fundraisers we already have — and, hopefully, we’ll add one or two more.
We’ll ensure these events are listed on the Grand Lodge calendar.
My team will also remind members and bulletin editors during lodge visits to check the calendar a couple of times each month.
One Final Request
There’s just one thing I ask of you:
Let’s keep the negative comments to ourselves.
My team and I are committed to leading by example. Take the recent move of Grand Lodge, for example. Some doubted it could be done.
However, with the help of some who could not be here tonight — and some of you who are here — we accomplished it without hiring a professional moving company.
Why?
Because we help people.
And sometimes...
we need to remember to help ourselves, too.
In Closing
I hope to make my family proud — just as I promised my Uncle Joel Bergenfeld, Past Grand Chancellor, that I would do my best to keep King Solomon Utopia Lodge strong.
And with my Team, the Council and Committee Chairs I will also work to strengthen Grand Lodge by staying involved and active.
My grandfather, a Past Chancellor himself, helped form the King Solomon Triangle Club, the benevolent arm of KSUL.
Their example – of dedication, friendship and service – continues to guide me every day.
Thank you again — for your support, your energy, and your belief in our mission.
Fraternally,
Bryan Hoffman
Grand Chancellor of New York