3 minute read
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.
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.
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 to be gained by having chat groups to discuss the symbolism and core values within each of our degrees. Asking a knowledgeable Brother in your Valley to lead such a group will result in stronger fraternal ties with those who participate.
Master Masons are seeking membership in Scottish Rite which certainly has me very pleased. However, the Grand Architect of the Universe reduces our ranks each year with the passing of many of our loyal and beloved Brothers. While we can’t control the number called to the Celestial Lodge, there are things we can do to keep our Brothers happy and fulfilled members.
Please make sure that your Valley has a Brother-to-Brother calling program. Contact every one of your members at least once or twice per year. A Brother who finds value in our fraternity will not depart our ranks.
Brothers under financial strain need not give up their membership. We can take care of a Brother in need as long as we are aware of the situation. A Brother who wants to stay a member should never be dropped from our ranks regardless of his financial situation.
The Grand Almoner’s Fund is there to assist our Brothers, widows, and families in need at any time. Our Grand Almoner, Illustrious Peter J. Samiec, 33˚, responds quickly to all requests coming in through our state Deputies. If you know of a Masonic Brother or widow in need, make the situation known to your Valley Secretary, Deputy’s Representative, or local Active Member. They will then make
the request to your state Deputy; a Deputy’s request to the Grand Almoner is acted upon immediately.
Being fraternal starts with taking care of the greatest resource within the Scottish Rite: our members!
Please stay well!
Fraternally,
David A. Glattly
