Freemasonry: does it live up to expectations?
What do we really know about our members’ expectations, and how well do we manage them?
Over the past two years, I’ve often asked new Brethren at mentoring sessions two simple questions:
❓ What were your expectations before joining?
❓ How have we, as a Lodge, failed to meet them?
Their answers have been honest and eye-opening. They remind us that enthusiasm fades when expectations go unheard.
UGLE’s Building Together initiative asks us to reflect on exactly this, to create Lodges where every Brother feels valued, heard, and connected. We’re encouraged to talk openly about what each member hopes for: learning, fellowship, ritual, or service. Our task as senior members and Past Masters is to listen first, then guide and support that journey.
Please take 15 minutes to watch this excellent talk 👉 https://youtu.be/AVMykZ6Whx4?si=HTVQYmGDip_h3-hO
By WBro Tony Harvey - Prestonian Lecturer !!
It captures what modern Brethren expect from Freemasonry, and how easily we can disappoint if we don’t ask, understand, and act.
Managing expectations isn’t about lowering them; it’s about aligning them with the true spirit of the Craft, so every Brother finds purpose and belonging.
A special note to our Membership Officer and Candidate Interview Committee, the podcast makes an important point that we must not gloss over: before initiation, every candidate should clearly understand what Freemasonry expects of him, financially, in time commitment, attendance, participation, and decorum. Too often we focus on “selling the experience” rather than ensuring the Brother truly knows what he is joining. Clear, honest conversations at the interview stage help prevent disappointment later, protect the reputation of the Lodge, and ensure that those who join do so with genuine understanding and readiness to commit.
Thanks for this WBro Alex. I agree that we need to form plans for meeting expectations, and have two observations: 1. The PDF seems, to me, to be geared toward lodge logistics and increasing membership. Although the advice in forming and executing strategy is broadly applicable, it doesn't explicitly bring out that point. 2. It seems that expectations vary widely. Some are here for fellowship/drinking, others networking, charity, ritual and a smaller group hoping for self-improvement. Whatever someone is looking for, outside of fellowship via the festive board (that the JW does, nothing seems organised at the lodge or district level. Even if there is a large enough group they seem to have no way to easily connect.
A possible solution may be a district directory, with names, titles, jobs and contact details so that self-organization would be easier. Even better if district would provide some infrastructure for things, like mailing list, websites, etc.
Basically, it just feels we're too fragmented to achieve much in the way of helping each other meet expectations.