Province of East Lancashire

“Why am I a Mason”

A Guide for Mentors

Why am I a Mason?
First:
Explain the purpose of this evening
Establish some ground rules/guidance/rules of engagement!
Then:
Question: Give me a single word that summarises what Masonry means to you?

Purpose (which they do not need to know yet):

1. This will form a prompt sheet that the lodge members can use to explain THEIR freemasonry to potential
members in the future and,
2. The lodge can use this as a basis for producing their own document/statement about themselves and THEIR
masonry and,
3. It will help them focus on:
a. Their shared understanding
b. Their shared goal for their masonry
c. Help understand their masonry
d. Appreciate why they are a mason and importantly, why they have remained one

(These should be recorded on the flip chart – the following are examples from a previous session)
Learning
Traditions
Fellowship
Confidence
Helpfulness
Companionship
Multi-cultural
Charity
Generosity
Friendship
Pride
Fun
Socialising
Brotherhood
Satisfaction
Ritual
Sharing
Awareness
Then:
Ask each contributor to explain their word
Question what other people think
Reach consensus and involve everybody
Challenge language and meaning – NO ‘ALLEGORY’ OR RITUAL QUOTES!
On conclusion ask the lodge to consider the purpose
Ask them to place the words in order of priority so we end up with a ‘top ten’ – bear in mind that there will be
commonality/repetition with some contributions which will allow for it to be précised.
Point out what they have achieved:
discussed their masonry,
shared their understanding and
defined what it means to themselves in simple everyday language
How can it be used?

As a menu/agenda prompt to aid structured and meaningful discussion with

Family
Friends
Colleagues
Potential members
Now, have this list typed up – laminate if possible – and keep in your wallet for the next time you need to explain
… “What am I a Mason?”
 Prepared by:

THE EDUCATION & TRAINING COMMITTEE

Freemasons’ Hall
Bridge Street
M3 3BT

The ideas presented herein have been reproduced with the

kind permission of:

WBro Martin Roche

Who has given permission for this form of presentation

to be used in Craft Lodges throughout
the Province of East Lancashire.

For further copies please contact your

DISTRICT MENTOR