DDGM Messages for 2010-2011

Brethren

I would like to tie my theme this year of Back to the Future “ Getting back to the Basics of Masonry to preserve the Future of our Craft, in with remarks made by our Grand Master in his address to the newly installed DDGM’s. He stated that the greatest challenge facing the craft today is the lack of understanding of the profound meaning of Masonry. I fully believe that this includes not only the general public but us as Masons ourselves. We tend to stray or move away from the work as intended and when we do this we begin to lose its meaning and over time as with the Genuine secrets they may be lost forever,

During our travels throughout the District and for some throughout this Jurisdiction and for a lucky few to other provinces and countries, we notice many differences in the way the Ritual is performed. Some of these differences may be subtle while others may vary greatly. But the most important thing to keep in mind is that the Central Tenets of Masonry should never alter. Our Grand Master has stressed the importance of compliance with the book of the work and uniformity.

So Brethren this evening I will start at the beginning with the duties we owe to our Candidates to insure they have a pleasurable and memorable introduction to the Craft and throughout their entire Masonic Journey.

The first and foremost task of the Lodge officers and Brethren is to make sure every candidate is made to feel welcome, always keep in mind how you felt as you began your journey. From the time he shows interest and signs his application, keep him in the loop of what will take place and when, as well as reassure them that they are about to embark on a most incredible journey that many before them have traveled. From the time they set foot into the lodge we must ensure that a seasoned Mason remains with them at all times, introduces them to the members and visitors, not only on that first night, but through out every degree and until he feels completely comfortable and at ease, not only in his home lodge but also through out his travels.

All to often we tend to take for granted and forget our candidates needs after they are initiated. Remember they are the future and life blood of Masonry, we need to be with them and reassure them every step of the way.

This leads us to the next step as our Duties as sponsors.

As we all know it takes two Master Masons in good standing to recommend an applicant. We should all take heart and realize that our duties have not ended there. We need to be prepared to answer the applicants questions, advise them of the procedures and time frame of the application process. Inform him of the fees and dues structure, why they are applied and what they are used for. And most importantly remain in constant contact with him throughout his degrees. Also it is our duty as a sponsor to Mentor our Candidates to ensure that he is properly prepared for advancement. Remember that making sure our candidates are confident and prepared not only reflects well on the lodge, but that pride that the candidate feels while being congratulated sincerely on a job well done, gives him that added confidence and encouragement that he is now ready and is eager to take on greater tasks in the future. Naturally this will cause him to speak highly to his friends of the rewarding experiences he has had in Masonry. This in turn will peak the interest of his friends to seek admission to our Mysteries and Privileges as well, and this Brethren insures the future of our Fraternity.

Most of us have witnessed over the years that when these practices are followed we see not only a very active Lodge that is brimming with work and applicants. But a Lodge that operates with confidence and Harmony. This is a goal that is very attainable and something we should all strive to achieve.

On the other hand when we fail to encourage, teach and impress our Candidates, their interest begins to Wane, membership goes into decline and eventually yet another Lodge experiences difficulties and finally falls into Darkness.

Therefore Brethren the only way for us to ensure the continued longevity of the Fraternity we all profess to Love and Admire, is to take pride, teach correctly, with enthusiasm and sincerity, and to make sure our candidates are not only ready but willing to take the Reins and lead the next generation.

So Brethren for the Good of Masonry in General let us all strive to make a positive advancement in our Masonic Knowledge and daily lives and take time to share with and encourage our Candidates at every opportunity.

Thank you Brethren for your time and attention