Tutorial for a Worshipful Master

This essay serves as a tutorial on how a worshipful lodge master might inclusively develop the mission and vision of his lodge with the help of all its members over the next two years. Examples of a masonic lodge’s distinct goals and objectives

An instructional tutorial for a worshipful master of a masonic lodge, their role, and duties and their responsibility for its development needs.

By Brother Antonio Biella

Any successful organisation must have a clear sense of its purpose and aims. It serves as the foundation for establishing goals and objectives and gives members a sense of direction. All members of a Masonic Lodge should participate in the process of developing the purpose and vision.
A worshipful lodge master will receive a step-by-step tutorial in this communication on how to formulate the lodge’s purpose and vision for the next two years. There will also be examples of a masonic lodge’s clear mission and vision.

Step One: Establishing a Working Group

 

The first step for the worshipful master is to establish a working group that will be responsible for creating the purpose and vision for the lodge.

This group should be composed of a variety of members from different backgrounds and perspectives.

The members should be chosen with the intention of creating a diverse group that can provide different perspectives and ideas.

The working group should consist of at least five members but can be larger if needed.

It is recommended that at least one member of the working group should be a current or past Worshipful Master.

Step Two: Creating a Vision Statement

 

Once the working group has been established, the next step is to create a vision statement.

This statement should provide the foundation for the purpose and vision of the lodge.

It should be a concise statement that describes the desired outcome of the lodge activities.

The statement should be clear and straightforward and should be approved by the members of the lodge.

Step Three: Establishing Goals and Objectives

 

Once the vision statement has been approved, the next step is to establish goals and objectives for the lodge.

These should be based on the vision statement and should provide a clear direction for the lodge.

The goals and objectives should be measurable and achievable and should be approved by the members of the lodge.

Step Four: Establishing a Time scale.

 

The next step is to establish a time for achieving the goals and objectives.

This time should be realistic and attainable and should be approved by the members of the lodge.

Once the time has been established, the working group should develop a plan for achieving the goals and objectives within that period.

The plan should include specific steps and tasks and should be approved by the members of the lodge.

Step Five: Implementing the Plan

 

Once the plan has been approved, the next step is to implement the plan.

This includes assigning specific tasks to members of the lodge, setting deadlines, monitoring progress, and adjusting as needed.

It is important to ensure that all members participate in the process, and that communication is clear and effective.

Summary

 

The role of the Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge is a position of great responsibility. You must be prepared to lead, guide, and direct your lodge with a clear purpose and vision.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the lodge follows the rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge, as well as to ensure that the lodge is always in good standing.

You must also be prepared to preside over the meetings of your lodge, guide the decision-making process, and ensure that all the lodge’s activities are conducted in accordance with the principles of Freemasonry.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your lodge is successful and fulfilling its purpose.

1. To support the growth and development of Freemasonry in our community and to promote the highest ideals of brotherhood and service.
 
2. To foster the values of integrity, respect, and charity among all members, and to assist those in need through charitable service and outreach.
3. To provide a safe and inviting environment for members to learn, grow, and discuss the principles of Freemasonry.
4. To bring together individuals from a variety of backgrounds to share knowledge and experience, and to work together for the benefit of all.
5. To provide a platform for members to engage in social, intellectual, and spiritual activities that support the values of Freemasonry.

To Conclude

 

Having a strong mission and vision is the foundation for any masonic lodge, as it imbues the purpose and direction of the lodge for members and outsiders alike.

For the Worshipful Master, this tutorial provides a framework for developing and implementing a mission and vision that is suitable to his lodge in the next two years.

With the help of all his members, the Master can work towards achieving tangible goals which uphold the core values of fraternity.

Publishers Note

 

I asked a very good friend of mine ( not a freemason ) who is a Senior Public Relations Expert ( we can’t afford him ) to provide 20 question about our Lodge so we can start to get together some press releases and social media promotions etc..

His reply…  Certainly, I’d be happy to assist you in promoting your Freemasons Masonic lodge in Sussex and your charitable activities.

To better understand your organization and create the most effective social media and press materials, I’ll need to ask the following questions:

What is the history of your Masonic Lodge? When was it established and by whom?

How would you describe the mission or purpose of your Lodge?

How many members does your Lodge currently have?

What is the demographic makeup of your Lodge’s members (i.e., age range, backgrounds)?

What specific local charitable activities does your Lodge participate in or sponsor?

Are there any upcoming charity events or initiatives that you would like to promote?

How has your Lodge positively impacted the community in the past? Are there any specific success stories?

What are the core values of your Lodge?

How often does your Lodge meet, and what are typical activities during these meetings?

What sets your Lodge apart from other Freemason lodges in the area or in the county?

Who is the target audience for these promotional materials (i.e., potential members, community members, other lodges)?

What is your Lodge’s current public perception, and what would you like it to be?

What kind of tone or messaging does your Lodge typically use in its communications?

What are the key messages that you want to convey through these promotional materials?

Is there a certain visual style or branding guidelines that should be followed for your Lodge?

How would you describe the benefits for a person to join your Lodge?

Are there any misconceptions about Freemasonry or your Lodge that you would like to address?

What is your Lodge’s process for admitting new members?

What platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, local newspaper etc.) would you like these promotional materials to be designed for?

Are there any sensitive issues or topics that should be avoided in the promotional materials?

With this information, I’ll be able to develop compelling and targeted content that showcases the unique qualities of your Lodge and its positive impact on the community.

Article by: Antonio Biella 

Recent Articles: membership

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

Masonic Apparel

made to order

Share this article ....

Contents