Installation, December 18, 2009
Just over three years ago, I was raised from a dead level to a living perpendicular. At that time I never imagined that I would be leading a lodge, let alone one that I had helped start. This is both a blessing and a curse for our fraternity. It is a vote of confidence for newer members, but at the same time, what does it say when the newest, most unproven members are thrust into leadership roles?
Two things. First, it shows that Masonry continues to attract good men. But conversely, it shows that Masonry does not have an available pool of leaders within its existing ranks.
With this dilemma, what can we do? Do we continue to recruit good men, only to burn them out in leadership roles? I would say that is a death warrant for our craft. We need to develop men for leadership roles. Take our time; try different brothers in different roles without the expectation of them moving on in the line the next year. That is what I’ve sought to do with the officer cadre for this lodge; let those who are in appointed office serve without the expectation of moving up the next year, but simply to focus on their role this term.
With that, we have focused on an aggressive plan for 2010. This plan is focused on the three pillars of Specialis Procer, Education, Socializing, and Ritual. Some of you have seen this plan, while it has yet to be officially presented. Regardless, the plan for 2010 will, hopefully, allow us to look at Masonry through a different light, one that will make our lodge a beacon for many years to come.
I truly appreciate the confidence placed in me, and pray that I will not only meet, but also exceed every expectation as Master for 2010.
To the officers, we all serve the Lodge, not the Master. And that is what we must focus on and work toward the bar has been set high, and we will meet it.
Brethren 2010 will be a year of adventure and paradigm shifting, and Specialis Procer will be leading the way.
Are we up to the challenge?
0 comments:
Post a Comment