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Masonic Papers |
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Leadership
by W. Bro. Dan Zrymiak There are different opinions concerning the best approach to leadership within Freemasonry. Being a diverse fraternal order, there are different approaches which are best suited to their particular context and situation. The purpose of this article is to briefly categorize four distinct approaches, describe their respective applicability and relevance to our craft, and summarize how we as brethren can incorporate the best qualities of these dimensions towards our aspirations in Freemasonry. Defining the four dimensions can be derived fro m the relative emphasis placed on two attributes: formality of conduct (informal vs. formal) and adherence to masonic tradition (pragmatic vs. dogmatic). From this, we can establish four groups: Informal-Pragmatic, Formal-Pragmatic, Informal-Dogmatic, and Formal-Dogmatic. An Informal-Pragmatic style can be described as a Social Service approach. The emphasis is on fellowship and festivities with less attention to rules and structure, knowledge of Freemasonry, and ritual traditions. These lodges are proficient in fund raising, recruiting, and social events. The lodge officer that best typifies this role is the Junior Warden. A Formal-Pragmatic style can be described as an Administrative approach. The emphasis is on the properly structured organization of bylaws, treasuries, correspondence, and policies. These lodges are proficient in the operation of lodge business affairs. The lodge officers that best typify this rule are the Secretary and Treasurer. An Informal-Dogmatic style can be described as an Academic approach. The emphasis is on the research and communication of lessons, history, and training. These lodges are conscientious in ensuring that brethren have all of the knowledge needed to continue their masonic journey. The lodge officers that best typify this role are the Director of Masonic Education and the Lodge Historian. A Formal-Dogmatic style can be described as a Ritualist approach. There is an uncompromising commitment to the preservation of proper methods and traditions. The proficiency of these lodges in its organization and execution of the masonic craft serves as examples for others, but may render it as being haughty and inflexible. The lodge officers that best typify this role are the Director of Ceremonies and the District Deputy Grand Master. As a current Worshipful Master, I have become aware of the need to cultivate support from all of these perspectives, and apply leadership within the different contexts. Like a project manager leading cross - functional participants, the Worshipful Master (or any masonic Leader) must be prepared to manage in a way that brings out the best qualities of each style without compromising on the traditions. The true benefit of a comprehensive programme like the Grand Lodge of BC and Yukon Lodge Excellence programme is that it provides for areas of achievement that will inspire all four dimensions of masonic leadership. For example, a lodge that is strong in recruiting and fund raising but limited in its Masonic Education and Ritual Work should look to the four dimensions to identify where to improve. A strong leadership trait is the ability to assign or delegate tasks to individuals reflective of their talents and attributes. Each individual brother has particular strengths which should be promoted, as well as weaknesses which should be mitigated. The assignment of mentors and sponsors can offset some of the short comings. For example, an introverted brother may need some additional guidance before being comfortable in a role of instruction or presentation. Alternatively, a novice Master Mason should not be expected to be the champion and defender of masonic traditions within the lodge. What is the best approach to leadership within Freemasonry? Knowing the different approaches which are best suited to a particular context and situation helps us make that decision to everyone's benefit. Different styles can be applicable and relevant to the Craft, permitting us to incorporate the best qualities of these dimensions towards our aspirations in Freemasonry. W. Bro. Dan Zrymiak is the Master of St. James Lodge No. 80 in White Rock and a member of our Grand Lodge Education Committee.
This article appeared in the
JANUARY 2006 edition of
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