Here we Go. Here we Grow! For years, Masons have been hearing about the slow decline of membership in Blue Lodge and in the Scottish Rite. Since the launch of The Path Forward program, we’ve seen the tide begin to turn for both. The result of this growth and energy can be seen most vividly in our own Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
Thanks
to innovations such as Thursday Night at the Rite and our Virtual Reunions, we have continued to initiate new members during the pandemic. These programs have also provided a spike in our restorations as members sought meaningful Masonic connections during quarantine. In fact, 10 states have seen an increase in percentage of Scottish Rite membership vs. Masonic membership per state. Additionally, 46 of our Valleys have seen an increase in initiates over the previous year.
TOP10
Increase In Scottish Rite to Blue Lodge Membership—2020 1. Rhode Island.......... 2.04% 2. Massachusetts......... 1.61% 3. New Jersey............. 0.95% 4. Connecticut............ 0.88% 5. Delaware.................. 0.75% 6. Ohio.......................... 0.33% 7. Pennsylvania.......... 0.32% 8. New York.................. 0.18% 9. Vermont................... 0.08% 10. Indiana..................... 0.04%
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ScottishRiteNMJ.org
This is trend-defying and something we haven’t seen in a while. This membership section examines the reinvigoration of our membership program. We’ll take a look at how we are bringing new members into our ranks, and how we continue to service and care for Brothers who have been with us for decades. From membership benefits, to education, to Valley success stories, there’s lots to tell.
It All Started in 2017 In 2017, the NMJ compiled the most complete survey of the state of Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite that had been done in more than 20 years. The results from our own members prompted the Supreme Council to take a look at the member experience from top to bottom. We listened and worked diligently to create new ways for Brothers to connect and to add value to their experience. The paradox is that the dry, sterile numbers of the survey led us to create rich programming and outreach opportunities for the Brethen.
by Linda Patch, Director of Marketing and Communications
Sovereign Grand Commander David A. Glattly explains the initiative that came to be known as “The Path Forward” this way: “Caring for each other is one of the most important of our Masonic values. When we examined the survey results, we knew it was imperative that we heed the words and wishes of our members—our very existence as an organization depends on doing so. It would have been a considerable misstep not to follow the very clear directions given by our Brethren about what would enrich and enliven their membership experience. “Members wanted us to focus on compassion, the fraternal bond, and education—the deep rewards Freemasonry promised to all of us when we first joined. Through Supreme Council and Valley programming, the increased use of technology, and many nights on the road traveling throughout the jurisdiction, we’re creating a deeper and more personal connection with our members. “The job is far from done. In fact, working to energize and revitalize our fraternity is extremely gratifying for me and my staff. It’s work that should never end.” And it hasn’t.
The Northern Light
