\r\n\r\nA Process in an Event-Fueled Society\r\n\r\nBrethren in Masonry, one question that we as a fraternity are facing is how to maintain the interest of our newer members. This is by no means a new question or a new problem. A look back in time shows that this is a challenge faced by every generation of Freemasons. Unfortunately, that same look back shows that what worked in the past will not necessarily work now. Society changes and we have to change along with it if we are to remain relevant to the members of our Craft.\r\n\r\nThe society that we live in today is an event fueled society. Everything is an event, and then it’s over and we’re on to the next event. And, in most cases we either don’t realize or don’t see the processes that make those events possible.\r\n\r\nFreemasonry happens (not an event but a process)\r\n\r\nWe’ve become so accustomed to our lives being a series of events that we, at best, ignore the processes or, at worst, find them boring and uninteresting. The Masonic society is filled with events: the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason; Lodge meetings, Lodge functions, etc. Freemasonry, though, is not an event; it is a process. It is what happens in the background and in between and during those events. It is the processes involved in bringing those events to fruition that manifests as Freemasonry.\r\nFreemasonry is working side by side with others toward a common goal and for the common good. It unites men who otherwise would never have met, and brings them together in an atmosphere of genuine support and affection. It is what happens in the heart and in the mind when men labor together to succeed, or even to fail, in shared aspirations. It is the admiration and respect of one man for another, not for material accumulation but for strength of moral character and selfless service. It is holding oneself up to an ideal even knowing that our human frailties make it impossible to achieve the ideal. Freemasonry is a process by which a man comes to know himself.\r\n\r\nThe Masonic Degrees are not Destinations\r\n\r\nAs we investigate potential candidates and discuss the fraternity with our newer members we need to make them understand that the three degrees of the Craft are only the first three steps in a lifelong journey. To presume to know Freemasonry from the first three degrees would be to stand on the seashore, take three steps, and presume to know the world. The degrees of Masonry are intended, not to impart, but to ignite a desire for more Light.\r\n\r\nIn order to institute a structure for enhancing this developmental process I have developed and have discussed with key officers an outline of a five year plan to guide the lodge over the coming years.\r\n\r\nThe aim is to build on the foundation laid by our “Backbone” the past masters of this lodge and to take the batton safely forward while keeping our sights on our masonic goals.\r\n\r\nTHEME\r\n
“REACH, ENGAGE, BUILD”