My dear brothers and sisters, following the tradition of the Noble Order to undertake a pilgrimage to the Holy Land every 2 years, I joined 40 pilgrims to visit Israel, Italy, Lourdes (France) and Fatima (Portugal). The pilgrimmage began with visits to the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, to Cana, Mount Camel, Mount of Beatitudes, a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, a visit to River Jordan, a trip to the Mount of Temptation in a cable car,and to the Basilica of Nativity in the Manger Square where Christ was born. This was to be followed by visits to the Mount of Ascension, the Garden of Gethsemane, walking along the 14 Stations of the Cross (Via Dolorosa), and praying at the Wailing Wall. With the conclusion of the visit to the Holy Land, the cradle of our faith, the pilgrimage took us to the St. Peters Square in Rome for a Papal Audience, visits to the Tombs of Popes, the Vatican Musuem, an open bus ride to the Vatican Gardens, the Catacombs, St Paul’s Basilica, St Padre Pio’s Shrine, and a Mass with the Ghanaian Catholic Community In Rome. The pilgrimage was rounded off with a fulfilling and satisfying spiritual experience at the Marian Grottos in Lourdes and Fatima. The trip was enriching for all participants. On a personal level, my encounter with the Pope during the Papal Audience was a moment to cherish. The Holy Father truly radiates Love and Holiness. In a conversation between him MRL Margaret Essilfe and myself, he assured us of his prayers for a peaceful election in Ghana, and divine blessings for our families and the Noble Order. Fellow Marshallans, as pilgrims, it was an undisputable that we were all thrilled, excited and proud about the rich heritage of the Catholic Church. Furthermore, our faith in God has been deepened, giving us the strength to be active agents in the establishment of God’s Kingdom on the earth. Finally, as I sat in the plane to fly back home, I became convinced after deep reflection and meditation about the importance of Positive Thinking. The tenets of positive thinking are dependent on a strong faith in the word of God. Scriptures says that “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” My brothers and sisters, I encourage you all to have a positive outlook every day. I urge you to focus on the things and outcomes you want and not the things and outcomes you don’t want. Never put out into the universe you are having a bad day. Rather, in your moments of despair, remember that The Lord watches over his people and has plans for our best interest. Fraternally yours Sir Kt. Derx Baffour (Supreme Knight)