Most Worshipful Grand Master, Past Grand Masters, Officers, and Brethren all. The title of this mornings oration is “Why Masonry Survives - The Truth”.

A brief look at history shows us that there have been several different Fraternal Organizations over the years. To name just a few, the Moose, The Elks, The Eagles, The Odd Fellows, and of course the Freemasons. These organizations are, in most recent memory the most well known.

All of these organizations have something in common; the most obvious is social side of the groups. In fact, the Moose, Elks and Eagles are little more than a social club. Not to say there is anything wrong with that, as social clubs have their place in society. Unfortunately for these organizations, the passage of time has not been kind, and the number of members, along with lodges and chapters have fallen dramatically.

The Odd Fellows, a great organization itself, has defined itself as an organization whose primary purpose is community support and charity. They have been experiencing an increase in the average age of members and a subsequent decline in membership for years, much like we have.

We obviously have some similarities with these other groups, but we are seeing one thing that the other groups in large part are not. Interest in our Fraternity. There are many reasons why interest in Freemasonry is growing. Of course Hollywood has helped with depictions of the Fraternity in the movies. Though most of what they depict is not exactly correct, much of it has a kernel of truth. It is that truth that peaks the interest in young men to seek us out.

Albert Pike said, “It is most true, that Truth is a Divine attribute and the foundation of every virtue. To be true, and to seek to find and learn the Truth, are the great objects of every good Mason.”

So what truths do we offer that are helping to create new Masons? In short, everything we do and everything we offer is Truth. Our truth begins when the curious prospect first knocks on our door with questions, and we take the time to answer them honestly; when we take the time to dispel rumors and misleadings found in the media, and when we show a genuine interest in the new prospect.

Our Truth continues as the new candidate learns that he can rely on the fidelity of his conductor as he takes his first steps in the Lodge; as he receives his Apron, and learns the important significance of it; as he is faced with a demand from the Worshipful Master, and when he sees the look of satisfaction of all the Brothers on the side lines as they watch him progress through the degree.

Ultimately, Masons and Non-Masons alike observe everything we do and say. They look to see if we “practice what we preach”. Do we practice Brotherly Love, do we work with others on the Level, and do we square our actions toward all mankind. When we do these things, then it’s seen that we not only speak, but also live the Truth of what Freemasonry Offers.

The Truth here in the Northern part of the state is that these three Lodges are not only keeping Masonry alive, but they are, through their joint actions, showing the Masonic Community and the community at large the Truth of what Freemasonry is.

In the most recent Trestle board from Amity Lodge, it is mentioned how their last degree took place with the help and assistance from both Corinne Lodge & Harmony Lodge. It was also mentioned how the work could not be done without their assistance. This, Brethren is our Truth in Action.

These Lodges don’t just say that they care, they don’t just say that they will help out if and when needed. They show it through their actions. They are demonstrating the Truth of Brotherly Love, the Truth of Charity, and the Truth of all our Masonic tenants through their actions and interactions with each other.

So why does Masonry survive? Why is Masonry becoming more popular among the younger generation? The answer is simple. We as Masons are committed to our great Fraternity, we as Masons believe what we say, and we as Masons want to share the Truth of our Great Masonic Fraternity with the Community.

Our Motto, or Goal, is to Make Good Men Better. These are more than just words. These words are Truth. And this Truth will see our Great Fraternity into the Future.

Thank you for Listening, Please enjoy the rest of the visitation.