Benjamin Franklin Lodge #83, Madison, WI

Freemasonry finds itself at a crossroad. It enjoys a distinguished and inspiring past filled with famous members and grand achievements. But membership in many lodges has been declining and what the Fraternity is, or should be, in the minds of many brothers is unclear. We at Benjamin Franklin No. 83 have chosen to embrace Freemasonry’s rich heritage – especially its educational tradition - and to use it to plan our lodge’s future. Certainly building on this tried and successful foundation makes sense.

Two years ago, I read an inspiring article in one of the M.S.A.’s Short Talk Bulletins. It included eight actions that lodges might take to reinvigorate and motivate their members. I offer excerpts here for my brothers at Benjamin Franklin No. 83 and any other Freemason who happens upon our website. Not everything that follows is equally important or applicable, but it gives a nice framework for Masonic activity within a lodge. I will also make one final, if obvious, observation - strong lodges can not exist without strong Masons. In the context of Masonic education, it is our duty and joy to be constantly learning and sharing this knowledge with our brother Freemasons. For me, this is the real work of a lodge. It is also what I believe builds some of the deepest and most interesting connections within our Fraternity.

S & F

Robert C. Blackburn, Senior Warden

From the Masonic Service Association of North America’s September 2005 Short Talk Bulletin entitled, “Masonic Awareness in the Lodge.” Reprinted with Permission of the Masonic Information Center.

Masons are unique in their commitment to virtuous education. By this we mean appreciating Masonry’s commitment to life-long learning, self-improvement and personal growth. We are reminded that Masonic identity is distinctive, because Masons are seekers and doers…

(The following represent ideas noted in the article to inspire and promote creative activity and development within a lodge. Many of these ideals are being put into practice at Benjamin Franklin No. 83 and some, perhaps, can show us new ways to grow)

1) Apply concepts of education and self-improvement to current print and non-print communications tools from individual lodges, Grand Lodges, and national Masonic organizations and societies.

2) Improve the environment of lodge-based fellowship; refresh the look of the lodge; welcome new members; improve presentation skills; provide mentoring to study degrees.

3) Organize group activities based on education and self-improvement that can enrich lodge-centered fellowship such as: welcoming committees, lodge renovation and cleanup campaigns, leadership development conferences, mentor meetings, workshops on such things as Masonic ritual, history, symbolism, architectural works, arts and cultural works.

4) Initiate workshops on personal growth topics.

5) Call on local educational faculty for expert lecturers on topics of unique interest to the lodge and that enrich the body, mind, and spirit of the brothers.

6) Tap individual members’ talents and build a community of experts to help Masons to help themselves and their communities.

7) Improve community accessibility to Masonry through public outreach and program hosting.

8) Offer Masonic recognition and incentive programs for educational initiatives, visitor programs and Chamber of Commerce presentations…

Put aside old habits of saying simply, “Ah, that’s been tried.” Or “Yes, But!” Cast off negativism. Turn the objection around to a challenge. Encourage and reward open and positive communication throughout each stage of the process of change. Share ideas and ask yourself to take ownership of transforming the identity of Masonry through each and every action, regardless of how small.

Make it the brotherhood that you want!