How To Attract Membership From a Decadent Society?

Today frequently, when one reviews Masonic publications, there will be an article pertaining to Freemasonry's continued membership decline. The articles will tend to offer reasons or remedies for the continued loss, then conclude that this great university is to blame.

I am willing to concede that some of the reasons may have merit. However, when it comes to the real reason for our troublesome membership loss, it is high time to observe the general moral decadence of the present permissive society in which we exist.

Moral decadence in a society is nothing new. It has occurred many times and in many cultures down through the ages.

Those who are initiated into Freemasonry and progress are taught morality and expected to learn these certain moral lessons and to practice them more than in the day in which we live.

When decay of moral values continues in our present day society, how can we expect to attract membership from a decadent society? Suffice to say the particular issue lies in the word "permissive." How often lately have you heard anyone say "Thou shalt not." Thus the blame for our loss in membership most certainly points to the general decadence in the present society.

It behooves the institution of Freemasonry to continue the profound impact teachings of high moral integrity, values, honor, with the virtues of Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice. It is the strong grasp of these Masonic principles and teachings that will attract to our membership men of like characteristics, and, as the saying goes, "Birds of a feather do flock together."

Doing this will enable us to weather the present time and prepare us for the time when the pendulum has started back on its upward arch. We will be ready to welcome members of that society into our midst. Let us then emulate the Craft brethren of the past, standing tall, proud, and fast.