At the recent Master and Wardens Retreat one of the biggest themes discussed was membership engagement.
According to Grand Lodge’s research there are three needs that keep our members coming back to Lodge and remaining active. They are:
- Establishing True Friendships
- Ongoing Learning and Growth
- Having an Impact, both on the Lodge and the Community
It is when these needs are not met that our members stop coming to Lodge. When we feel that we do not have a network of friends, we feel that no one will miss us. When we are not learning and growing as people due to our involvement, we wonder what the point is. When we feel we are not needed by the Lodge and/or when we have no way of contributing meaningfully, we question whether the time commitment is worth it. In the months and years to come we must make a concerted effort to address these needs, and to help our brothers become active in the Lodge again.
At Petaluma-Hamilton we have a wonderful and diverse group of men. If it is true friends that you are looking for I encourage you to come by our Stated Meeting Dinners and other events. This will give us a chance to sit down and talk with you. If you would like to learn and grow you should swing by our regular practices. We do more than just practice the words of our ritual, we discuss the meanings and their relevance as well. If you feel like you are not making an impact, I suggest that you stick around after the dinner for our business meeting. We have a variety of committees that would love your input.
Speaking of input, I would love some from you. I would love to get your ideas about how we can make a positive impact on our local schools. Every year we give to the Petaluma Music Festival, which benefits school music programs. Every year we provide scholarships to deserving students who are heading to college. Every year we receive a few requests from a school looking for support, which we gladly do. What else can we support our schools in all of the amazing things they do for our students?
If you have a thought, I would love to hear it. Please, feel free to email me at asaslow@masons180.org with your thoughts.
I look forward to working with you to become friends, learn and grow, and have an impact.
Alex Saslow,
Junior Warden
