Leading Men

by David A. Glattly, 33˚, Sovereign Grand Commander

Greetings.

I hope this message finds you well as we continue through our pandemic challenges.

This issue of The Northern Light focuses on leadership, particularly with a spotlight on our Grand Masters serving the Grand Lodges within our Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Each of these distinguished Masons earned the leadership role within their respective states through their dedication and service to the Craft. We salute each of them and thank them for their service.

How does one describe the characteristics of leadership? Distinguished author Jon Meacham describes the three necessary characteristics of a good leader: curiosity, humility, and empathy. As I listened to Meacham assert his thesis in a documentary, I came to agree wholeheartedly with his analysis. Curiosity inspires us to explore what more can be done for those we serve. Humility reminds us that we should put others first. Empathy allows us to listen and understand those being served. Not bad!

In Scottish Rite, we also have key words—our core values: Reverence for God, Devotion to Country, Service to Humanity, Tolerance, Justice, and Integrity. These are not just words but the inspiration for each of our twentynine degrees. Without question, these are the key values our Scottish Rite leaders follow.

In the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, we have a tiered leadership structure that allows our members to serve the fraternity in many ways. We certainly appreciate those willing to serve the leadership roles available in each Valley—the true unsung heroes of Scottish Rite. These are the leaders who enthuse and excite the members, particularly our newest brethren. Leaders in the Valleys give our new members their first true experiences of Scottish Rite, setting them on their path for future participation.

Leaders in the Valleys give our new members their first true experiences of Scottish Rite.

I call upon all our local leaders to take special care in welcoming our newest members. Help them feel welcome. Make their participation special. As a DeMolay state officer years back, I was always taught that the most important people at any DeMolay meeting were the newest members, not the highest ranking. This still stands true in my mind for lodge meetings, Valley gatherings, or any other Masonic events. Always pay attention to this! Don’t let a new member sit alone at a meeting. Even more importantly, don’t let that new member fend for himself at social collation following the meeting. Your attention to that new member can make or break his interest in Scottish Rite.

There are many self-help books that you can study on leadership skills, and much of that can be valuable. However, as a local leader, being yourself and sincerely caring about the members will take you a long way.

Please stay well!