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Some Tips For The Master
CHAPTER vI
THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER'S
HANDBOOK
Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M. of the
District of Columbia
Quoting from "Congratulations, Brother," A letter to a
newly elected Master by Wayne T. Adams, Junior Grand Warden, in the
Winter 1994 Maine Mason.
YOUR OFFICERS - Communicate clearly what you expect of
them, the lectures they will be responsible for and the committees they
will serve on.
YOUR BRETHREN - Speak individually with each brother
who attends a Lodge meeting, let him know that you notice him and
appreciate that he is there. Do not overlook the importance of your
trestle board. This is the only way you have to communicate with 70% of
your members. Take your time with it. Make it informative. Mention
names. Give credit. Let the absent brethren know that there is activity,
and that they are missing it.
YOUR PAST MASTERS - Make them part of your team. The
best way to keep this garrulous old bunch off your back is by giving
them a job to do. They can be an asset to you. They are the backbone of
your Lodge. They invested their time in it, and they will be more than
willing to help you if they see that you are making an effort.
THE HELPERS - Communicate your appreciation to everyone
who helps on a Lodge project, from the chief cook to the bottle washer.
They are all important. Offer thanks in public. Give credit in your
trestle board. Everyone likes to know that his effort is recognized. One
of your most important tasks is to offer that recognition on behalf of
the whole Lodge.
YOUR ELDER BROTHERS AND WIDOWS - Stay in touch with
these people. A fraternity is distinguished from other organizations by
its concern for the welfare of its own members and their families. A
visit is important. A telephone call is almost as good. A Master
communicates not only his personal concern, but the concern of the whole
Lodge. If you succeed in this important aspect of fraternal life, you
will find that your Lodge will benefit in surprising and unexpected
ways.
WIVES - Recognize and chat with each wife who comes to
a Lodge event. Today, when both husband and wife commonly work, time
together is valuable. It is important for wives to feel that their
husband’s Lodge membership is important. Plan fellowship activities and
recognition evenings that include wives so that Lodge membership offers
them opportunities to participate.
YOUR WIFE - Lastly, but most importantly, communicate
with your own wife. Let her know in advance that being Master of your
Lodge is important to you and that it will be time consuming. Do not let
it come as a surprise. If you explain what you are doing and why, my bet
is that she will be a great help and support to you.
Your Lodge will reach out to as many people as you reach
out to.
It is a role no one else but the Master can play.
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