MS SC567

Recognizes the Grand Lodge of Mississippi of Free and Accepted Masons upon the occasion of their upcoming bicentennial celebration in Natchez, Mississippi on July 27, 2018

Acknowledges the Grand Lodge was officially established on July 27, 1818, in Natchez by delegates from territorial lodges nearly 15 years before Mississippi statehood

Notes the organization received a legislative charter on April 10, 1871, establishing it as a perpetual succession corporation governing Masonic Fraternity within Mississippi

Identifies the current Grand Lodge membership as more than 16,000 Master Masons across 239 lodges in nearly every community statewide, plus affiliated appendant bodies

Commends the organization for its civic contributions and service to Mississippi and recognizes the legacy of service by its members