{Presented at the 239th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York on Saturday, October 23, 2021}

To all of my Brothers, Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for your trust, support and confidence.

The Grand Lodge of New York is at a crossroads. The direction we now take will greatly determine our future for generations to come. There is a newfound interest in Freemasonry that is unparalleled in recent history. Gentleman of exceptional character, high moral fiber, unshakeable integrity and motivated to make a contribution to our world are knocking on our doors in unprecedented numbers. We must be prepared to open our doors!

We have hundreds of men in our membership pipeline waiting to become active Freemasons. Our lodges are in desperate need of these additional assets. Through the Guarding the West Gate Program and the Scottish Rite’s, Path Forward Program, Freemasonry has been thrust into the mainstream consciousness of the general public. Now we have to follow through on our promise to each of those interested men.

A successful membership program needs to be a two-prong effort. Recruitment and Retention. We often complain about the hurdles in attracting membership, but that is the easy part. Immersing these men fully into our lodges requires a lot more effort. We have to be cognizant that we are competing against an endless number of organizations for the same quality men. These gentlemen are also very selfish with their time and want to make sure their leisure time is spent prudently.

Recruitment must be honest and forthright. We need to be direct and concise in our message. Above all we must be consistent and timely in all our communications with the public. All means of communication need to be coordinated from face-to-face through the various social media platforms. One Message One Mission! The divisiveness in society cries out for a sane, well-established platform that accepts upright men from various walks of experiences. Freemasonry is that organization! Our Principles and Tenets direct us to not only accept, but to embrace diversity.

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