Unknown Candidate – Part 3

Has your lodge accepted an unknown candidate from the internet?

Before we commence with the third article in this series, I would like to summarise the first two articles.

Unknown Candidate – part 1
In the first article we discussed mindsets, and lodge members readiness to contemplate the idea of accepting an unknown candidate from the internet into their lodge.

For some members this will be quite an obvious route to the long-term success and health of the lodge and Freemasonry in general.

There will be many members who will never accept the idea, as for them, it is far too radical a change to the lodge.

Then there will be those, who might be sceptical, but are open to change, and in time will be supporters for the strategy.

Unknown Candidate – part 2
In the second article, we discussed how to use social media marketing to attract new potential members.  The idea to separate Freemasonry from membership.

The concept to sell membership as a product. Focus on the benefits of being a member.

Never forgetting, people buy benefits.

Now in the third article, we look at how the whole process is managed, from first contact, through to Initiation, Passing, Raising and beyond.

The Lodge Membership Officer

 

The Lodge Membership Officer is critical to oversee the success of the whole process, from first contact through to Initiation. Clearly, they should be a supporter for the initiative, and they will need to commit time and energy to the following:

Enquiries will come from many social media platforms. Therefore, a good level of competency with Email, SMS text, WhatsApp, Facebook iMessage, and Instagram Direct Messenger.

They should also have time available in their daily life routine, to be able to quickly respond to incoming messages through the various communication sources.

Patience and tenacity are two very good qualities for a Lodge Membership Officer, as they should be prepared to undertake 20 – 50 points of communications for each new candidate.

The Lodge Interviewing Panel

 

An interviewing panel should be established under the leadership of the Lodge Membership Officer.

It is important that, as soon as practically possible, the prospective candidate has an initial face-to-face meeting with lodge members, ideally two members, one being the Lodge Membership Officer. 

The initial screening interview serves two purposes: first to ascertain how serious the applicant is in becoming a Freemason, and will he fit in within the lodge? Secondly, for him to understand the joining process, from this first meeting right up until his Initiation. 

This initial meeting should also address the three critical qualification requirements for membership; a belief in a deity (if that is a requirement with-in your obedience); is he free of criminal record; and does he satisfy the minimum age?

The other three areas that should be discussed include: his time commitment to attend meetings, and LOI;  the financial commitments to lodge dues, dining, and charity; and finally, his family supporting him in his application to become a Freemason. 

In my own personal experience as a member of the interview panel, while undertaking the initial screening process, the most common issue for applicants is their own time commitment, either to family or due to work.   

If now is not the right time for them, then it should be suggested and presented in a positive way, that they should wait until family or their work situation changes. Accepting a candidate at the wrong time in their life, will result in them quitting the lodge and Freemasonry altogether. If that happens, the interview team have failed in their duty of care to both the applicant and the lodge.

As a guide, aim to arrange at least three meetings, each meeting with two different members, each meeting takes about one hour. That translates to about six man hours before the applicant makes their petition to the lodge.

Some lodges will have additional steps in their interview process. The most important objectives are, that the candidate understands what is expected of him, and he understands what he can expect from the lodge. So both sides can fulfil the others expectations. 

If this is achieved, then the lodge will have gained an asset, and the applicate will have joined a good lodge and will be set on the right path to enjoy his Masonic career.

The Lodge Mentor

 

The Lodge Mentor should be able to appoint and supervise a team of private mentors, to look after individual new members.

I would also suggest that the Lodge Mentor is not the DC or Secretary doubling up, as they will have a full time role in the success of the whole process.

The Lodge Mentor should be involved at the early stages, and ideally be a member of the pre-screening interview panel. 

The Lodge Mentor will be looking to match a Private Mentor to coach the candidate. The sooner the Private Mentor is introduced to the prospective candidate the better. 

The Lodge Communications Officer

 

The Lodge Communications Officer will be responsible for the social media communications. 

With the absence of outside help, the Lodge Communications Officer will be responsible for creating images and text elements for Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Also producing a schedule to post on a regular basis.

In reality, very few private lodges will have a member with the necessary skill set. They may have the enthusiasm, but not the skill set to carry the task through.

Therefore, I anticipate that the District / Provincial Grand Lodges will need to support private lodges in their jurisdiction with the necessary materials and tool kits, so that the Lodge Communications Officer is able to prepare, produce and run a successful social media marketing campaign.

United Grand Lodge of England Pathway to Success

 

United Grand Lodge of England has developed an 11-step lodge management structure – The Members’ Pathway. This is a guide for lodges to focus on the important points regarding membership and mentoring.

There is a tri-fold overview which outlines the 11 steps, then a more detailed 20-page step guide and a further 248 comprehensive guide. It is available at https://b.ugle.org.uk/membership

This guide has been prepared by United Grand Lodge of England for lodges that meet in its provinces and districts overseas.  

Undertaking the work in the lodge

 

The final part to this jigsaw is the ability to undertake the work in the lodge. Be prepared for success. A successful outcome will be where a lodge is able to attract enquiries, filter these, and undertake the degree work in the lodge in a timely manner. 

As a short term measure, it might be possible to invite other lodges in close proximity to undertake some degree work in their lodge. 

The long term strategy must be to be able to undertake all the degree work in the lodge, which might mean undertaking multiple candidate ceremonies (a discussion for another time).

The message is be prepared for success. The members in progressive office will have more work to undertake. There will be a higher level of time commitment required from senior lodge members.

It is very easy to be a member of a failing lodge. Just sit back and let it fail!

It takes a lot of time and effort to be a member of a successful lodge.

So before you set out on this strategy, ask yourself this question:

Do I want to take the easy option and be a member of a failing lodge – or do I want to take the difficult option and be a member of a thriving successful lodge?

Article by: Nicholas J Broadway

njcholas broadway

Nicholas was initiated into Freemasonry in 1989 in Stonewell Lodge No. 9137, Essex England (UGLE) and was Master in 1995, 2011 and 2016. He also joined other UGLE craft Lodges and is a PZ in the Royal Arch Chapter. 

He acquired the title of The Square Magazine in January 2020 and oversees the technical running of the digital publication.

Recent Articles: unknown candidate

Unknown Candidate - part 3

Has your lodge accepted an unknown candidate from the internet? Third in a three-part series looking at the process to accepting candidates via the internet
 

Unknown Candidate - part 2

The second article in the Unknown Candidate series - Outlining the social media marketing process to attract the unknown candidate to make that first enquiry
 

Unknown Candidate - part 1

Has your lodge accepted an unknown candidate from the internet? First in a three-part series looking at the process to accepting candidates via the internet
 

Recent Articles: membership

A Rose by any other Name may not be the same

Explore the profound distinctions between conferred and transmitted Masonic degrees with Bro. Scott Wisdahl. Delve into how presentation quality, personal impact, and setting shape these rituals, and consider the potential for digital adaptations in modern Masonic practices. Join the discussion on enhancing the Masonic journey and preserving its essence. 

Progression through the Degrees; a Rite or a Privilege?

Exploring the layered journey of Freemasonry, Matt DA Fletcher probes the essence of progression—whether it's a mere rite or a privileged path. Delve into a nuanced perspective where every degree is not just a milestone but a fraction of a grander continuum.

Quantity vs Quality within the world of Freemasonry

Dive into the compelling debate of quantity vs quality within the world of Freemasonry. Discover the transformative focus on attracting members aligned with the institution's values, promising not only growth but quality growth. High-value individuals assure sustainable development with their commitment to serving the brotherhood.

Are we really Freemasons?

Maybe Freemasonry has opened its doors too wide. Perhaps some have not understood that the survival of Freemasonry in order to achieve its sublime purpose lies not in the number of members it has, but in their quality. Maybe we need less members and more Freemasons. Less men in Freemasonry and more Freemasonry in men.

What is ritual and why is it important? P1

Delve into the profound world of Freemasonry rituals and their significance. This insightful piece unravels the underlying importance of rituals, their impact on participants, and the transformative power they hold. Uncover why these centuries-old traditions remain integral to Masonic practice today.

Could Freemasonry be helpful for young men?

Unravel the Masonic Brotherhood: Could Freemasonry be the antidote to modernity's challenges for young men? Dive in as we explore the Masonic world, its principles, camaraderie, and how its traditional rituals could help forge stronger identities in an increasingly complex world.

Lodge Meetings & Wellbeing

Discover the remarkable benefits of Lodge Meetings on your well-being. From fostering connections to combating stress, learn how these male-oriented gatherings offer an antidote to anger, hunger, isolation, and exhaustion. Dive into the power of shared experiences, understanding, and camaraderie. Your key to improved mental health awaits inside.

Tutorial for a Worshipful Master

Unlock the Secrets to Leadership Mastery in our Worshipful Master's Tutorial! Brother Antonio Biella shares step-by-step guidance for Masonic Lodge leaders on honing their roles, duties, and future vision. Discover how to drive growth and engagement in your Lodge, setting ambitious goals and inspiring member participation.

Freemasonry for University Students

What are social skillset challenges facing students when they graduate from university ?
As they graduate and enter the workforce, university students may encounter a variety of social skills issues. Following are some examples of how freemasonry can teach valuable life skills.

Freemasonry for Entrepreneurs

How the Core Values of Freemasonry; Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth Can Be Applied to Improve Productivity For Entrepreneurs

Why I became a Freemason: a personal journey of self-improvement

Salik Tariq shares his reasons for becoming a Freemason – a journey of self-improvement, finding a community, and personal growth.

Freemasonry: Coming out of the Cloisters

This paper examines the fundamental tensions on the lines of religion, gender and political ideology that exist in some jurisdictions of Freemasonry. It is on the first of these, religion, on which he makes an initial and exploratory focus. - by Gerald Reilly

The Relevance of Freemasonry in Contemporary Society

The role of Freemasonry in contemporary society is an indispensable one. Despite the challenges and misconceptions it faces, the organization remains steadfast in its humanitarian pursuits and commitment to personal growth and self-betterment. Through its efforts to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its members and the world, Freemasonry continues to be a vital force in shaping a better future for all.

Reviving a Slumbering Giant

Has Freemasonry managed to revive and thrive after the darkness of the Pandemic? Robert Lomas gives us some (promising) insights.

21st Century Freemasonry – a Sign of the Times?

A recent article in The Times of London highlighted the dilemma 21st Freemasonry is facing. In this article one Master Mason shares his views of the strengths, and the challenges of modern Masonry.

Freemasonry and Teamwork

A concept that is both based on our Freemasonic rituals and what we understand as teamwork. This article by Chris Batty examines why teamwork in the lodge is the network that binds us.

Freemasonry in Lebanon

Lebanese Freemasonry has been both witness to and sometimes participants in turbulent events and forces, which shaped and influenced their world.

Is a Masonic Tradition Necessary?

Dealing with Masonic tradition is a complex subject that requires careful analysis in order to reach a balanced point on the best etymological definition and the set of discourses and practices, which often end up being presented as such, without, however, presenting bases that support them, often serving only as a discourse that restricts and controls the masses. Fernando Rodrigues de Souza debates this complex subject.

New Year's Resolution with Benjamin Franklin's Personal Improvement

Are you ready for a new year's resolution challenge ? To accomplish his life’s goals, at 25 ( around 290 years ago ), Benjamin Franklin developed and committed himself to a personal improvement program that consisted of 13 virtues. You are invited to join me in practicing his daily routine for 2023.

Freemasonry and Education

The Alberta Masonic Higher Education Bursary Fund is to help the next generation of Albertans, our children and grandchildren, to obtain the education they need to lead successful lives and contribute to the welfare of mankind. As you can see from this little lesson of our history, education is truly a Masonic obligation.

To be a Better Citizen of the World: Step 4

A value proposition for Pure Ancient Masonry as defined in terms of Citizenship; the allegories, symbolism and lessons are a blueprint for all Freemasons to be a better citizen of the world.

To be a Better Citizen of the World; Step 3

A value proposition for Pure Ancient Masonry as defined in terms of Citizenship; the allegories, symbolism and lessons are a blueprint for all Freemasons to be a better citizen of the world.

What is an Egregore?

In connection with recent article about Freemasonry in the metaverse, we look at how an Egregore applies to Freemasonry in a digital world

To be a Better Citizen of the World; Step 2

A value proposition for Pure Ancient Masonry as defined in terms of Citizenship; the allegories, symbolism and lessons are a blueprint for all Freemasons to be a better citizen of the world.

Brotherhood and Freemasonry

There are many brotherhoods in the world, and Freemasonry is one of the most significant and successful of them all. This article will be the focus two questions: the importance of brotherhood ? and is there room for improvement in Freemasonry?

Intergenerational relations in Masonry: challenges and possibilities

Backed with scientific research, Professor Luiz Neto and Professor Alexandre Braune investigate the Intergenerational relations in Freemasonry and explores the challenges and opportunities.

To be a Better Citizen of the World; Step 1

A value proposition for Pure Ancient Masonry as defined in terms of Citizenship; the allegories, symbolism and lessons are a blueprint for all Freemasons to be a better citizen of the world.

The Masonic Temple

The Masonic Temple is a platform where both Freemasons and non-Masons, enthusiasts of real art and spiritual growth, connect to the new world of the metaverse. A Freemasonry in the metaverse project, based regular freemasonry principles.

Opportunity to fix the Sussex fudge

Is there a value proposition for members, that under English Constitution Freemasonry, we have a 4 part offering; Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft , Master Mason and Companion, conducted in a single craft lodge ?

Value Proposition of Freemasonry

In addressing declining lodge membership and lack of attendance, we need to assess the value it offers to members. What is value, and what does it mean to you?

Millennial Masons - Response

What is a 'Millennial' and what do they want from Freemasonry? You'll be surprised at the answers.

Rethinking Masonry

Let us help answer a fundamental question, from a confused newly raised brother asking “What does it all mean and where do I go from here?”

The Candidate

Written in 1930, much of the advice is still relevant today - although some may provoke further thought or debate!

Product Life Cycle of Freemasonry

An inconvenient truth about the product life cycle of Freemasonry

Be a Unifier

Freemasonry is local. This is where we need to start. We start with our Facebook friends, our neighbours, our colleagues, our lodges…

Freemasonry in the time of pandemic

The Rule of Six. Localised lockdowns. Second wave? What do we do now?! The answer is simple - engage with members, promote Masonic education and get thinking outside the lodge.

What Future for Freemasonry

The current functioning of the Masonic movement has some positive aspects and others that are blatantly backward and counterproductive.

Millennial Masons

What is a 'Millennial' and what do they want from Freemasonry? You'll be surprised at the answers.

Membership Marketing

How to improve your Lodge Membership Marketing Program.

The Anti-Social Impact of Social Media

The 'dark side' of social media and its negative effect on our mental health

Sunglasses Ritual Amendment

If Freemasonry cannot meet, is this an opportunity to make a change to how we do things?

Unknown Candidate - part 3

Has your lodge accepted an unknown candidate from the internet? Third in a three-part series looking at the process to accepting candidates via the internet

Brother of my Brother

Is the brother of a brother a brother ? Rights to visit - recognition and regularity re-evaluated.

Unknown Candidate - part 2

The second article in the Unknown Candidate series - Outlining the social media marketing process to attract the unknown candidate to make that first enquiry

Making Good Men, Better

Ask a random Freemason the purpose of Freemasonry and the likely response will be to “make good men, better”. Research undertaken by James Justin Davis Pennsylvania Academy of Masonic Knowledge.

Unknown Candidate - part 1

Has your lodge accepted an unknown candidate from the internet? First in a three-part series looking at the process to accepting candidates via the internet

Mental Health & Freemasonry

Mental Health - Raising its awareness and how we as Freemasons throughout the entire UK can help our fellow brethren and their families when they need it.

Share One Thought...

Share one thought why freemasonry is relevant today - Open question posted on Facebook with a very wide range of responses from Brethren across the globe

The Tipping Point of Freemasonry

Why do brothers lose interest in Freemasonry and what can we do to get that spark back? At what moment did our own thoughts begin to waver?

masonic knowledge

to be a better citizen of the world

share the square with two brothers

click image to open email app on mobile device

Tubal Cain

Masonic Aprons NFT

Each Tubal Cain Masonic Apron NFT JPEG includes a full size masonic apron and worldwide shipping 

Share this article ....

Contents