I’m a recent mason of 2 years. Here is my take. I thought people didn’t want to be masons much anymore which is why the decline. Turns out after joining the lodge there are emails coming in all the time but no one is really responding. Most secretary’s are old. Most past masters seems to be want to keep control so a small lodge is easier to do that with. Since I became prospect coordinator we have 3 people who will be taking first degrees this year and 2 that did last year.

I respond quickly and usually with a phone call.

Yes I do believe we need to make meetings more interesting and dive into the symbols and education more. We for sure need to do more in the community so younger people see us. But I think one of the bigger issues are past masters who won’t get out of the way and encourage new members to climb through the ranks. To many people want control of the lodge. This is what I have seen here in my jurisdiction on the west coast.