2nd November 2006
Eastern Light • Masonic Stories 1 reply
Brothers,
This message may or may not apply to you. I am definitely not singing to the choir, but rather trying to start a new one.
As of January 1, 1991 we enjoyed the fellowship of approximately 49,000 brother Masons. We have now slipped to, in the neighborhood of, 32,000 Masons state wide. If the rate of decline continues at the same pace and nothing changes, Freemasonry in the good old U.S. will cease to exist in the next century. What a tragic loss for mankind!
Why? I’ve heard all the excuses, two income families, television, to busy, etcetera. Hogwash. The real reason, it seems to me, is that we are failing to bring Freemasonry alive in the hearts of our members, especially our new members. People join for a variety of reasons, rarely the right reasons. Or for some reason unbeknownst to us, they may have become disenfranchised with our great fraternity. It is up to us to show the leadership, seize the moment, and turn the course so that this devastating loss will never occur.
If this situation might apply to you, I can help. I love our great Creator and I love my family very much, but I can honestly say, and if you know me you’ll have to agree, I truly love Freemasonry. Give me half a chance and I will stoke the embers of this wonderful and great fraternity, in your heart. Pete
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Nelson Gillis says:
November 22nd, 2006 at 7:01 pm
I’m sorry to hear this Pete, although some of the lodges out here are having the same problem. And some are doing a little better. They dress very informal some in dungarees or whatever. They have a session before lodge where they may have hot dogs,and soda. I have seen one where the wives prepare dinner before they convene. They have a great time having BarBeCues that they sell tickets to and most of the town comes. It all comes down to “they seem to enjoy each others company”. This probably wouldn’t work up there but something else might. Just food for thought. I remember when we had “excuse the spelling” Manicore night in Cramer Hill, that was a good get together. For a while we went to Cenellies restaurent after lodge. He was a member and may still be and the meal was free. Of corse that was all when we were in Camden. I know it’s hard to compete with Two and a Half Men, but I hope you find a way. (your old friend and brother)