Brother, A Term Like No Other

Brother, A Term Like No Other

Oct 8, 2024 | Masonic Life

MASONIC LIFE

Brother, A Term Like No Other

Many who join our numbers do so because they want to be a part of something greater than themselves and long to find meaning in their life. When I was initiated into the degree of Entered Apprentice, passed to the degree of Fellowcraft and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, I felt a huge sense of accomplishment and a greater connection to our fraternity because I knew that every Brother before me, and all that will come after, share the same path for Light in Masonry. It is amazing to think that I followed the steps of famous Freemasons like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Mark Twain.

When at Labor in Lodge and in my Masonic travels, I often heard it said the best title a man can receive is Brother — I agree 100% with this point. I often thought about what that idea meant in a time when me still greeted each other with handshakes, how that time has passed and what it means to be a Brother today. I am really inspired by profound bonds I’ve witness over the years between my Brothers in our ancient Fraternity. These bonds are forged by trust, respect and a shared belief that we raise each other to greater heights. As Brothers, we form close-knit kinships cemented by a spiritual and moral bond. Many organizations brandish the term “brother” when referring to one another because of a meaningful, shared bond. However, the term “Brother” in Freemasonry has a depth and meaning beyond any other definition; from a Mystic Tie that obligates us many levels, to a bond that seems to transcend mortal life spanning eons.

Freemasons don’t frequently display our bonds publicly, but one of the few times that we do is during Masonic funeral services. We are taught that Operative Masons buried their own with great reverence having shared many years of Labor with each other and that we, as Speculative Masons, do so in an ages old, sacred tradition. It is a time that we demonstrate our Brotherly Love and bond with the deceased to show that this man was a cherished member of our Fraternity.

In the beginning as an Entered Apprentice’ I tended to overuse the term “Brother” without the depth of knowledge one gains through shared Labor and commitment to Masonic values over time. I grew up in a family where we fought a lot amongst ourselves, so it appeals to me that as Brothers we are expected to overlook petty disagreements and to focus on the good in each other. I admit that this is something I struggle with at times in my personal life, but I’m learning to be more forgiving by practicing charity towards all and helping those in need so long as it doesn’t cause undue harm to myself or others.

I also find it appealing that my Brothers come from all walks of life, that it doesn’t matter where we came from or where we are going. This is explained to Masons at the end of our meetings, before we depart Lodge that we meet on the Level, act by the Plumb and part on the Square. This lesson is timely in connecting the importance of being respectful in our dealings with others, upright in our actions and fair in our decision-making. I find these principles comforting, especially when I think about the day I finally lay down my Working Tools. I find peace in knowing my Brothers will honor my memory and when I travel to the Celestial Lodge above, I will be surrounded by Brotherly Love and the Great Architect’s everlasting Light.

Written by Bro. Russell W. Dickson

Bro. Dickson is the Senior Deacon in St. Patrick’s Lodge 4 and is at labor in Collabergh-Radium 859, both in New York. He is a Royal Arch Mason in Hiram Union Chapter 53, and is a 32° Scottish Rite Mason at the Valley of Schenectady, where he serves as Senior Warden of Sigma Council Princes of Jerusalem.

Samuel Lloyd Kinsey

Lafayette Bicentennial – A Hero’s Homecoming Honored

Lafayette Bicentennial – A Hero’s Homecoming Honored

Aug 17, 2024 | Masonic History

MASONIC HISTORY

A Hero’s Homecoming Honored

Celebrating Lafayette’s Bicentennial

On a resplendent August morning, the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Staten Island bore witness to a historic commemoration. The first trail marker was unveiled, marking the bicentennial of General Marquis de Lafayette’s triumphant return to American soil and the commencement of his final tour. This momentous occasion brought together a distinguished assembly, including Masonic leaders, historians, and patriots.

The ceremony unfolded with reverence and enthusiasm. Warren MacKenzie, the church’s elder and pastor, extended a warm welcome to the attendees. John Lentine, a seasoned historian and Past Master of Tompkins Lodge 471, delivered a captivating keynote address, illuminating the life and legacy of the revered general.

RW Michael LaRocco displays the Masonic Knights Templar apron worn by Bro. Marquis de Lafayette. (Photo credit: RW Gill Raoul Calderon)

The event was further enriched by eloquent speeches from esteemed guests. Christopher R. Deats, District Deputy of Richmond District, Alberto Cotizo, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and Michael LaRocco, Executive Director of the Livingston Masonic Library, shared their insights and commemorated the occasion with the presentation of a 200-year-old apron worn by Lafayette himself during his investiture as a Masonic Knight Templar. The unveiling of the trail marker, a tangible testament to Lafayette’s enduring impact, was a poignant moment. Julien Icher, the visionary founder of The Lafayette Trail, Inc., expressed gratitude to the collaborating organizations: the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, Sons of the American Revolution Battle of Brooklyn Chapter, Tompkins Lodge No. 471, and the Children of the American Revolution Richmond County Chapter. Their collective efforts ensured the success of this commemorative endeavor.

As the day unfolded, it became evident that Lafayette’s influence transcended time. Daniel D. Tompkins, a former Vice President of the United States and a Masonic brother, had extended a warm welcome to Lafayette upon his return, hosting him at his Staten Island residence. This significant hospitality marked the beginning of a nation’s outpouring of gratitude towards its beloved hero.

In a powerful declaration, Michael LaRocco elevated Lafayette’s status from “Hero of Two Worlds” to “Hero of Three Worlds,” recognizing his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the principles of Freemasonry. This proclamation resonated deeply with the assembled Masons, inspiring them to uphold the ideals embodied by their illustrious forebear.

The day concluded with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. As the nation prepares to commemorate the bicentennial of Lafayette’s grand tour, this trail marker serves as a poignant reminder of a hero whose spirit continues to inspire generations.

Read more on Bro. Lafayette, view upcoming Bicentennial events, and add your event to the Craftsmen Online calendar!

LaFayette Events Page
Written by RW Michael LaRocco

Michael LaRocco, 33°, was raised 2011 by Lynbrook-Massapequa Lodge No 822. He is the AGL for Nassau District and Director of the Chancellor Robert R Livingston Masonic Library. Devout member of Freemasonry and if you ask him which Rite (York or Scottish) to go into he will say, “both, see it all!” Michael received the Meritorious Service Award (MSA) in 2019 by the NY COD Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, NMJ.

All photos provided by RW Gill Raoul Calderon

VW Michael LaRocco
Masons Must Preserve and Promote Our Past to Find Our Future

Masons Must Preserve and Promote Our Past to Find Our Future

Aug 11, 2024 | Masonic Life

MASONIC LIFE

Masons Must Preserve and Promote Our Past to Find Our Future

One of the reasons I am proud to be a Freemason is our fraternity’s great history. At St. Patrick’s Lodge 4, chartered in 1766 in Johnstown, New York, we meet inside a wonderful and storied building where we are preparing to celebrate the centenary of its cornerstone ceremony. St. Pat’s, like many lodges across the state, is blessed with an expansive significant building, and our home exudes grandeur! On approaching the façade, one beholds an impressive colonnade flanking the main entrance. Upon entering, we are transported back to the golden age of Freemasonry, when Masons were builders contriving in wisdom, strength, and beauty for the benefit of all who would come in the same way and manner in the future.

 

Photo: “St. Patrick’s Lodge 4, Johnstown, New York “

 

Our distinguished building was left to us by our Masonic predecessors, and one daunting question we face, as the building shows its age, is do we preserve our heritage, or do we downsize to a more modern home? Numerous lodges across our great state have had to sell to survive, and others have gone dark due to declining membership and finances. A quick search on YouTube yields multiple videos of abandoned lodge buildings left to crumble, being exploited by paranormal investigators and urban explorers.

We would be wise to undertake our own explorations to learn more about ourselves. One day before lodge, a couple brothers and I decided to look through our attic, but made it no further than the second floor. We found stacks and stacks of photographs scattered over tables everywhere; old ritual regalia and wardrobes; forgotten paperwork; neglected Bibles; yellowed certificates; and more, all just collecting dust. We ventured upstairs to the balcony, then finally to the attic, where the memories of how Freemasonry first inspired me as a child scouting in my grandparents’ Victorian attic came rushing back. I looked with wonder at all these old props and costumes, from both lodge and chapter, forgotten in the passage of time.

We must embrace our past if we are to have a future. These old lodge buildings contain our lodges’ memories, and they can be a big attraction in the eyes of those who would knock on our doors.

This is why Right Worshipful Brother Michael Millias and others are endeavoring to preserve our lodge’s history. We are documenting the inventory and figuring how best to preserve and display the treasures of our traditions. A few of these items are the original charter from the Grand Lodge of England, our original officers’ jewels, and an antique key said to have come from the lock of William Morgan’s jail cell.

Photo: “Grand Lodge of Czech Exhibition Poster”

Last year, I traveled to Prague to visit family. My father-in-law belongs to a lodge there, and he told me about an exhibition the Grand Lodge of Czech Republic was presenting to mark its own centenary. My understanding was this exhibit was meant to raise funds and increase public knowledge of Freemasonry, possibly to attract new members. It was titled “Freemasons, Freemasonry Through the Eyes of Freemasons.” I remember thinking what a great idea this is, and that it may be an activity New York lodges could emulate.

I have heard brothers say we need to change and modernize our fraternity if we are to survive. In some ways, maybe that is true, but I think our survival should rely on preserving and promoting our great history. What better way to do that than to showcase our lodges for the public? We can provide spaces where our neighbors can come together, exchange ideas with us, and gain perspective on Freemasonry’s traditions and cultural heritage.

Written by Bro. Russell W. Dickson

Bro. Dickson is the Senior Deacon in St. Patrick’s Lodge 4 and is at labor in Collabergh-Radium 859, both in New York. He is a Royal Arch Mason in Hiram Union Chapter 53, and is a 32° Scottish Rite Mason at the Valley of Schenectady, where he serves as Senior Warden of Sigma Council Princes of Jerusalem. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in journalism from the State University of New York at Albany, and has been a freelance journalist for more than twenty-five years. His work has been published internationally, in multiple languages, by both online and print news outlets.

Samuel Lloyd Kinsey

1867 to Eternity: Hugh Barkley Bull and the Beginnings of Wallkill Lodge 627

1867 to Eternity: Hugh Barkley Bull and the Beginnings of Wallkill Lodge 627

Jul 28, 2024 | Masonic History

MASONIC HISTORY

1867 to Eternity: Hugh Barkley Bull
and the Beginnings of Wallkill Lodge 627

Earlier this year, I noticed the gravesite monument of W. Bro. Hugh Barkley Bull, located in the Brick Church Cemetery in Montgomery, New York, had fallen into severe disrepair. I had taken it upon myself, as Worshipful Master and Historian of Wallkill Lodge 627, to rally the brethren for a stone-cleaning workshop. Because W. Bro. Bull was initiated, passed, and raised in Goshen Lodge 365, I invited the Goshen brethren, through Worshipful Master Erik Geehern, to collaborate with us on this heartfelt mission. After personally funding all necessary equipment, I scheduled Saturday, July 20, 2024—honoring the 155th year of W. Bull’s passing—for the arduous project.

Few men or Masons ever reach the inconceivable heights of profound distinction. For many, their records, merits, and achievements vanish into history. One such Mason, who was revered and remembered for a life of selfless service, but whose memory is all but lost, is Brother Hugh Barkley Bull. He embodied endless faith in God and devoted selfless service to community; it was said upon his passing that he was “a useful and esteemed citizen” whose “life was distinguished by great usefulness.”

His story begins October 1, 1816, in Crawford, Orange County, New York. His mother was Maria Barkley; his father, David C. Bull, was a descendent of the iconic William Bull, an English immigrant and operative stonemason who built Knox Headquarters, which at one time was used by generals Nathaniel Greene and Horatio Gates during the American Revolution.

Hugh Bull grew up on a well-cultivated, 1,000-acre farm near Bullville, New York. Dozens of workers from nearby villages worked on the many farms, creameries, and distilleries about the hamlet which bears the Bull family name. Bull was afforded many comforts during his childhood, owing to his family’s prosperous stature.

After completing his early education at the local prep school Montgomery Academy, Bull entered the prestigious halls of Union College in Schenectady. Founded on the motto Sous les lois de Minerve nous devenons tous frères (Under the laws of Minerva we all become brothers), Bull immediately was enamored with the deeper meanings in education and he was active in many social circles. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, was active in the pipe and song Kappa Alpha fraternity, and was a loyal member of the literary Philomathean Society. Bull also sat on the reputable Senate Committee which, in 1841, welcomed distinguished speaker Benjamin Butler who, twenty years later, would serve as a major general in the Civil War, and then governor of Massachusetts in 1888. Also in 1841, Bull and his class of ’80 graduated from Union College. Many would become accomplished physicians, clergymen, teachers, and lawyers. Bull pursued the latter, and upon removing to Goshen, he began studying law under the Hon. Samuel J. Wilkin, late congressman. After being admitted to the New York State Bar, Bull practiced law in Montgomery, New York.

By 1847, Hugh Bull was an Orange County district attorney and, for many years, served as justice of the peace. During this time, he grew a reputation as a tremendous public speaker, and was known to be thorough in all his vocations. Bull grew so popular in many social circles that in 1851, he was elected to the State Assembly. Although his stint in Albany was only one year, he was active with legislation that supported his Orange County district, including bills concerning banking, insurance, securities, and infrastructure.

Upon his return to Goshen, Bull was met with great accolades and fandom. In 1855, he was requested to speak in Montgomery on the history of the late Orange Hussars who, in 1793, served as the hamlet’s local militia. The following year, he was invited to speak before the Orange County Educational Society, where he praised the importance of teachers, and the significant duties that rest upon them.

He served as the recording secretary of the New York State Agricultural Society in 1859; was president of the Orange County Bible Society; and was secretary and counselor of the Montgomery & Erie Railroad.

In 1866, Bull petitioned for the mysteries of Freemasonry at Goshen Lodge 365, and was initiated during the lodge’s 210th communication on June 18 which drew visitors from Port Jervis, Warwick, Hiram, and Hoffman lodges. Bro. Bull was passed to the Degree of Fellow Craft on the following July 2, and was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason two weeks later, becoming the 114th member of Goshen Lodge at the age of 49.

With his law office ten miles away in Montgomery, and with his zeal for the fraternity, Bro. Bull approached the Grand Lodge of the State of New York to begin the process of forming a new lodge. On October 10, 1866, Most Worshipful Robert D. Holmes, Grand Master, granted dispensation to the fledgling lodge. A week later, the town of Montgomery was chosen to be its location, and the name Wallkill was selected, chosen mainly because the Wallkill River’s strong current provided employment to thousands in grist mills, factories, and agriculture.

On December 7, five Master Masons, donning white gloves, jewels, and white leather aprons, assembled for Wallkill Lodge’s first regular communication. Those in attendance were:

Worshipful Master Hugh Barkley Bull, raised in Goshen Lodge 365; Senior Warden Constant W. Wadsworth, raised in Hiram Lodge 144; and Junior Warden Robert Young, raised in Columbia Lodge 38. Brothers Henry H. Hallet (Pyatt Lodge 194) and William J. Welsh (Hancock Lodge 552) also were entered onto the rolls.

The first order of business was appointing officers: Constant W. Wadsworth, Treasurer; William J. Welsh, Secretary; Henry H. Hallet, Senior Deacon; Henry H. McElhenny, Junior Deacon; Sidney D. King, Senior Master of Ceremony; Robert Brown, Jr., Junior Master of Ceremony; and Samuel N. Sands, Tiler.

Afterward, a motion was proposed to adopt the by-laws of Goshen Lodge 365 with a few alterations establishing dues at three dollars per year; remunerating the Tiler at one dollar per meeting; and scheduling Regular Communications weekly on Friday evenings.

Eight petitions were read at the first meeting, all proposed and recommended by Bro. Wadsworth. The lodge was then closed in Due and Ancient Form on the Third Degree of Masonry.

The following week, there was confusion in the Craft during the second Regular Communication, testing W. Bro. Bull. During frigid temperatures with five inches of snow accumulated, it was entered in the minutes that “a rascal, commonly called ‘Jack Frost,’” entered the lodge room without permission from the Master, but without proper heating, was allowed to remain under protest for the duration of the meeting.

Wallkill Lodge would confer the Entered Apprentice Degree five times before hosting its first Fellow Craft Degree on February 1, 1867. W. Bull, still a new Worshipful Master, had met some obstacles early on and was a little behind in ritual proficiency. With great regret, he stepped aside and allowed W. Bro. David A. Scott, Master of Hudson River Lodge 309, to confer the degree. Later that night, they would raise four Brothers to the Sublime Degree. The first to be entered onto the rolls of Wallkill Lodge were Theron M. Little (teacher), Daniel C. Carvey (merchant), Gardiner S. Graham (farmer), and Allen Mead (tobacconist). Those who would follow them came from all concerns and employments, including politicians, lawyers, wagon & harness makers, farmers, physicians, firemen, and police officers, among others.

On St. John the Baptist Day 1867, Wallkill Lodge received its charter and was issued number 627. The document was signed by Most Worshipful Stephen H. Johnson, Grand Master, and attested under the seal of Grand Lodge. Right Worshipful Landon S. Straw, District Deputy Grand Master of the Orange, Rockland and Sullivan Masonic District, noted earlier in his official report to Grand Lodge: “I have visited Wallkill Lodge, working under a dispensation, and found them in possession of the Standard Work, and being satisfied their aim is the highest, I cordially and cheerfully recommend that a warrant be granted to them.” This was an iconic and historic moment, full of jubilee for W. Bull and brethren of Wallkill Lodge. The Secretary proudly wrote on the first page of the new visitor book: “1867 to eternity.”

Bull would serve two more years as Master, however, on June 15, 1869, he would preside in the East for the 53rd Regular Communication to confer the Entered Apprentice Degree, but this would be his final meeting.

The following month, after delivering an eloquent and patriotic Fourth of July address, Bull fell ill with extreme bouts of diarrhea, stomach pain, and mind-numbing fevers. He was removed to Port Jervis to recover.

W. Hugh Barkley Bull laid down his Working Tools July 10, 1869 due to typhoid fever. He left behind his loving wife Hannah Jane Decker Bull and fifteen-year-old daughter Maria. Bull was a devout Christian and an elder of Montgomery Presbyterian Church. When news of his passing spread far and wide, members of the local community were utterly devastated.

Two days later, Wallkill Lodge opened a Special Communication where District Deputy Grand Master G. Fred Wiltsie presided. The meeting was short. The lodge was opened on the Third Degree and closed soon thereafter, allowing the brethren to travel by horse and carriage to the home of deceased. After a mournful funeral service, the brethren proceeded to march in a grand procession, escorting the remains of their dear brother to his final resting place. Bull was interred and laid to rest at the Brick Church Cemetery in Montgomery, where that towering 15-foot white granite obelisk stands, marking his eternal honor and legacy.

On August 3, 1869, Wallkill Lodge, under Bro. Henry H. Hallet, acting-Worshipful Master, passed the following resolution:

To the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren of Wallkill Lodge No. 627 F.&A.M.

Whereas: It hath pleased the Supreme Architect of the Universe to remove from our midst our Brother H.B. Bull, the WM of this Lodge thereby severing another link in the fraternal chain be it

Resolved 1st: That we the Brethren of Wallkill Lodge No. 627 F.&A.M. in our associate capacity deeply deplore the loss we have sustained in his removal from our band. 

Resolved 2nd: That we make this public acknowledgement of our appreciation of his excellent character as a man and Brother Mason and that his sudden removal should be a warning to each one of us and serve to teach us to be prepared to meet in the Grand Lodge above.

Resolved 3rd: That we sincerely mourn with the widow and fatherless in this, their hour of desolation and sorrow, and extend them our heartfelt sympathy and commend them to the care of God, who doeth all things well.

Resolved 4th: That a copy of these resolutions be handed to the family of our deceased Brother and that they be entered in full upon the minutes of the Lodge and also published.

Hugh Barkley Bull was a noble man, full of sound moral principles. He governed his life through the beacon of faith and for his love of the Craft. In 2019, a watercolor painting was privately commissioned and donated to the lodge. Today, it is proudly displayed in the East behind the Secretary’s desk.

That graveside monument restoration on July 20 kicked off at 9 a.m. with a brief talk on the life of Hugh Barkley Bull. Immediately following, I provided thorough instruction on stone-cleaning. Then we began. Approximately ten brothers between both lodges, employing two ladders, ten gallons of water, five gallons of D/2 Biological Solution, numerous soft bristle brushes, and various other cleaning equipment, completed the work by early afternoon.

It was a shining moment for the Orange-Rockland-Sullivan Masonic District as two lodges united to honor a pillar of our shared Masonic history.

Bibliography

Butler, B. F., An Address Delivered Before the Senate of Union College on the 26th July, 1841. C. Van. Benthuysen, 1841.

Catalogue of the Members of the Philomathean Society, Instituted in Union College, 1795, J. & W.H. Riggs, 1847.

A Catalogue of the New-York Alpha of the Phi Beta Kappa; Union College, Riggs, 1852.

Catalogue of the Officers and Students in Union College, 1841, Riggs, 1841.

Davies, H. E., A Compilation of the Laws of the State of New York, Relating Particularly to the City of New York. Banks, Gould & Co., 1855.

Death of Hugh B. Bull, Evening Gazette, July 13, 1869.

Hugh B. Bull, New York Herald, July 15, 1869.

Meeting Minutes, Goshen Lodge No. 365 F. & A.M., Archives.

Meeting Minutes, Wallkill Lodge No. 627 F. & A.M., Archives.

New York Alpha of the Phi Beta Kappa Union College, 1922.

New York State Register, 1847; Being a Supplement to the Register for 1845-6, J. Disturnell, 1847.

A Record of the Members of the Kappa Alpha Fraternity and a City and Town Directory, A.H. Kellogg, 1892.

Ruttenber, E., History of the Town of Newburgh. E.M. Ruttenber & Co., 1857.

Ruttenber, E., & Clark, L., History of Orange County New York, Everts & Peck, 1881.

Transactions of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of The State of New York, Holman, 1864.

Wilder, A., The New York Teacher: A Monthly Periodical, Devoted to The Cause of General Education and to the Elevation of the Teachers Profession (4th ed.), James Cruikshank, Publishing Agent, undated.

By W. Bro. Kyle A. Williams

Bro. Williams, a collector of New York Masonic history, is Worshipful Master of Wallkill Lodge 627 in Walden, New York, where he also is lodge Historian.

Samuel Lloyd Kinsey
Strengthening the Masonic Fraternity

Strengthening the Masonic Fraternity

Jul 26, 2024 | Editorial

EDITORIAL

Strengthening the Masonic Fraternity

IDEAS ON HOW TO INCREASE THE VISIBILITY OF YOUR LODGE IN THE COMMUNITY

The purpose of our Masonic Fraternity has always been “to make some good men, better.” Freemasonry encourages its members to improve themselves and to establish strong links among each other. In addition, some of these better men have felt a call to improve their communities, making Freemasonry a valuable asset for society. However, this important aspect doesn’t seem to be well understood by some. In this article we examine this situation further.

Let’s consider three fundamental factors: (1) the state of our contemporary society, (2) the nature of our Institution, and (3) the different types of Freemasons.

First, contemporary society has ceased to be as gregarious as it used to be. Computers, cell phones, and other such media devices foster individuality. As a result, most organizations, professional societies, churches, unions and clubs, have seen their membership decline.

The second factor is the nature of our Institution. Organizations acquire an unwritten contract with its members, to make good use of their time and resources. After we raise a Brother, do we provide further masonic education, substantial fellowship events, or further involvement in community work? Attending Lodge to discuss budget issues does not raise much interest. Providing lectures or training on useful topics (e.g., internet, computers, software) will help Brethren succeed in the profane world.

The third factor is the type of member, as not everyone is the same, likes the same things, or has joined our Craft for the same reasons. For example, some join in search of fellowship; and find it in our meetings and social activities. Others join to acquire esoteric experiences, and they find it in our Observant and Research Lodges. Still others, join to improve themselves -and some of these, may also want to help improve society at large.

One way to increase our visibility is by developing community projects. Grand Lodge has several national projects such as the Masonic Medical Research Lab. But Freemasonry, like politics, is Local. Our community needs to know what we are doing for them: developing a food pantry; providing Thanksgiving and Christmas meals; Breakfast with Santa; Easter egg-hunts; a career day for high school kids; building ramps for the disabled, etc. These few examples of projects give the Craft more visibility in our communities. They do not cost much, but require work, which can also help increase Lodge fellowship and participation.

We can also open our Lodges for selected activities, inviting friends and neighbors to participate and see what we do. It is sometimes difficult to explain that we are not a secret, but a discrete organization. A better way is by having people visit our Lodges.

Lodges can organize public activities, such as documentaries about travel, especially during our long winters. Lodges can develop presentations about identifying drug problems, or potential health issues, and about ways to resolve community problems. We have Brothers with many backgrounds, that allow them to address these issues.

Most Lodges have a multipurpose room, where social events can be prepared, using a projector, computer, sound system, etc. A District-wide lists of lecturers can be established to find speakers. Offer coffee and donuts. Some topics may have been already presented elsewhere. But our neighbors may prefer to hear a speaker they know, and can relate to.

After the presentations, invite the audience to visit the Lodge room, and have a Brother answer questions. Advertise events in the local newspaper and radio stations. Join forces with other local organizations: Rotary, Lyons, VFW, the library, etc. and with other local Lodges.

Finally, work with DeMolay, Rainbow Girls and other youth groups. Provide them with interesting activities such as camping, canoeing, bowling, as well as training in practical things (computers, exam reviews, etc.). They will grow up and eventually join …
Such things help members develop an increased and stronger Lodge involvement. People usually respond positively to groups activities. Project work creates stronger fellowship bonds.

The Craft will attain higher visibility in our own communities. Friends and neighbors will have a different outlook of who we are, and what we do. Community work may become the best promotion of our Craft, and an efficient recruiting tool. For, some of these neighbors and friends, participating in our activities, may want to know more about us, and eventually join the Craft.

Planning, preparing and carrying out of such activities and projects will take extra time and energy, from our Lodge members. But such activities will also contribute to retain them. Some other Masonic writers have proposed radical changes to our Craft, that reminds me of the saying “you are throwing away the baby with the bath water”. Maybe, losing members will help us think through all these issues, and come up with efficient answers.

Written by Bro. Jorge Luis Romeu. WB Romeu is Past Master of Liverpool Syracuse Lodge #501, dual member of the Grand Lodge of Puerto Rico, and a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite mason. He is Membership Chair of the Onondaga District and a member of the GLONY Retention Training Program.