LEADERSHIP REPORT
Being Fraternal
by David A. Glattly, 33˚, Sovereign Grand Commander
Greetings! I hope this message finds you well as we continue through our pandemic challenges.
A
fraternity is defined as a group of people sharing common interests. It is further defined as a state or feeling of friendship and mutual support within a group. Freemasonry is undoubtedly a fraternity, but it is a fraternity with the highest of callings. As Masons, we are called upon to be a true brotherhood.
Why does any man decide to join Freemasonry? We know many men (of their own free will and accord) join as they follow family tradition or because a friend asks them to join. Men who become Freemasons experience the close ties of brotherhood that exist within our Craft. If that experience does not happen, each of us, as
Masonic Brothers, need to look in the mirror, because it is us who have failed to guide that new member to the same fraternal connection that is so deeply meaningful.
Men who become Freemasons experience the close ties of brotherhood that exist within our Craft. A new member who receives the degrees of Freemasonry needs to feel welcomed beyond the ritual he has witnessed. He needs to understand the meaning of the words spoken to him and the symbolism presented. An informal follow-up orientation in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere outside the lodge room will go a long way to create a strong fraternal bond. Those interactions create the ties that keep this new Brother interested in continuing in the Craft.
It’s really quite simple: A Brother who feels genuine connection and caring will likely remain a Brother for life.
It’s really quite simple: A Brother who feels genuine connection and caring will likely remain a Brother for life. The issue of fraternal welcoming applies to Scottish Rite Freemasonry too. There is so much more to Scottish Rite beyond witnessing 29 degrees and filling passports. There is much 4
ScottishRiteNMJ.org
The Northern Light
