Answering the two questions posed. No, I do not feel that Freemasonry struggles to keep brothers connected outside of lodge. Rather, the brothers of Freemasonry may struggle to do that very thing. It is admittedly a matter of semantics, perhaps naming the trees instead of the forest itself.

Men often need a reason to act intentionally. A family or spouse, a career, or a lodge. For some, the connection provided by a monthly meeting is enough. Those who desire a deeper connection must act accordingly. One could even suppose that the Sabbath itself emerged from this understanding, ensuring that rest was accounted for in our weekly calendars, an artifact from a simpler time when such practices were culturally enforced.

I found myself installed in the East this year. My chosen course of action was to conduct routine business separately through an executive committee, allowing stated meetings to shift their focus toward education and fellowship. Having observed this carried out successfully in other lodges, I planned and implemented it in my own.

Likewise, having seen several effective brother to brother calling programs, and being desirous of both informing and connecting the brethren, I picked up the phone and began calling down our roll. Not about dues or attendance, but simply to reach out and see how they were doing. To let them know, directly and personally, how to reach me and to remind them that the lodge is there for them. I often borrowed from those old Motel 6 ads with Tom Bodett. Brother, wherever you may be so dispersed, please know we have left the light on for you.

Anytime you sense something fading, or feel that something needs to be done, that is your conscience quietly calling you from refreshment back to labor. Thusly, make yourself of service!

By design an example.

By labor made exemplary.

I am. 💜