From the DGM / by R.W. Bro. Russ Reno
Membership is the subject of this month’s Planning Tools. To many, it is the most important aspect of Masonry. That perception is fueled by concern about our declining membership, and the challenges you may be facing in your lodge.
If you’ve read this column before, you know I’ve stated several times that membership is not our most pressing problem. Instead, it’s active lodges with programs that meet the needs of our members that will attract members and keep them involved in their lodge. Excited by your lodge’s activities, members will make brothers of their friends, acquaintances and relatives so they can join in the fun.
Nevertheless, our lodges must effectively “sell” Freemasonry to men interested in joining. That’s the focus of this month’s Planning Tools.
Included in the information is extensive research that has been conducted of men. One of the more interesting findings is that only 2 percent are definitely interested in joining groups, while 23 percent may be interested. That’s a small pool, and you can bet other organizations are pursuing the same men as aggressively, if not more, than Freemasonry.
That’s why we all need to sharpen our approach to recruiting members. Of course, it all begins with having something to sell. What does your lodge offer men? What will it offer next year when you serve as Master?
As you continue planning for next year, bear in mind that the program you implement will be the only answer you and your members will have when prospective members ask, “What do you do?” Make sure your answer will appeal to potential members, entice long-absent members back to lodge and enthuse active members.
It’s all up to you. Plan well!