Vision Developing a FORWARD

By Mark Schmidt

As Brethren, we all want our Lodges – and every Lodge – to prosper. We know that the strength of the Fraternity is found in the development of a network of like-minded organizations that can help support and strengthen others in their area, region, state, and nation.

Yet, we also understand that moving forward may look quite different in each lodge. Strong, thriving lodges may already have a well-developed process for charting their way forward. Others may do little more than meet on a regular basis, pay the bills, conduct an infrequent community event or fundraiser, and retire to refreshments.

Realizing that forward motion does not just happen is the first and most crucial step in getting our lodges moving. It might be helpful to think of the process of moving forward in terms of three distinct steps.

Does your Lodge have the INTENT to move forward?

While this might seem like a silly or simplistic question, it is one that should not be assumed or overlooked. It is entirely possible that some Lodges and their members may have become apathetic or deeply rooted in doing the same things that “have always been done” in the Lodge. One likely reason for such attitudes may be the lack of new blood or younger membership. The answers you find to Step One will help you determine what the important first steps must be to determine your way forward.

How does your Lodge define Forward? The old adage is correct: “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will take you there.” You and your Brethren must decide on the best future for your Lodge. What makes sense for your community and your membership? For some Lodges, it might be important to begin by recruiting a pool of younger, more active members. Other Lodges might want to dedicate themselves to assisting one or more of the Masonic youth organizations; others to raising money for worthwhile causes such as medical research, scholarships, or to fund a new community facility such as a park or community center. Still others may wish to sponsor teams in a youth sports league, or by supporting Academic Bowl activities. By taking a good look at your community, you should be able to find a number of appropriate ways in which you can help meet community needs while growing your Lodge at the same time.

How can your Lodge put this vision of “Forward” into action? This step is where your Lodge defines the strategies needed to create your vision of the future. This step will not be easy, and it will not be quick. But it will be rewarding. Plan to take the time necessary to answer key strategic questions and bring all your membership into agreement regarding future directions. Among the questions you might want to ask:

• Is there a true need in our Lodge or community that we are trying to address? How can this need be solved? Is it a matter of money? Manpower? Organization? All the above?

• Who are the stakeholders? Are there people outside our Lodge with whom we should be meeting to seek input?

• How do we attract partners? There are some goals that your Lodge may not be able to address on its own. How do you make others aware of your efforts and solicit their active support?

• How do we share the good news of the progress we are making? Often, success builds upon itself. As word gets out about your progress, others will be drawn to the effort, and this, to your Lodge. An active and public social media presence and contacts with newspaper, radio and television reporters can be extremely useful here.

By taking these three steps and answering these important questions, you can help define a way Forward that is as unique as your Lodge and perfectly suited for the community in which you live.

W.B. Mark Schmidt, Associate Editor