Why we meet

When was the last time that you went to Lodge? Why should we even meet after receiving the Degrees?

Here is an eloquent explanation of the importance of attending Lodge meetings and making yourself available to your Brothers.

The following paper was created for a live presentation in Lodge by Bro:. Matthew J. Taheri of Paumanok Port Washington Lodge No. 855 F. & A.M., New York.

My Brothers,

This weeks paper relates to something many of us have thought about frequently. Why do we meet in Lodge, even after we have received the Degrees. While there are many reasons, I think that the simplest is truly the most important.

We often use the allegory of building our temple, from the foundation up, to allude to our continuous efforts toward being outstanding human beings, to improve ourselves so that we might improve the world around us. We are taught that although this might be done on our own, it is best done with the aid of loving Brethren. The Degrees aren’t the toil themselves, they are the architecture (the design and method of practice of construction), they are the foundation. The construction itself is left to us.

When we bring ourselves before our Brethren, we allow ourselves an opportunity to assist in improving their lives, and in turn, allow them an opportunity to improve ours.

Let this remind us that every time we bring ourselves before the lodge, we bring ourselves before our Brethren. This is one of the reasons as to why attendance is truly important (more covered at a later date). When we bring ourselves before our Brethren, we allow ourselves an opportunity to assist in improving their lives, and in turn, allow them an opportunity to improve ours. The Great Temple of Solomon was not built by one man, but by many men with many points of view and bits of wisdom to offer.

Take such constructive criticism as just what it is: The input of a skilled Craftsman into the erection of a temple; Not the snide remark some individuals may interpret. And as importantly, give only that criticism you think might help. Talk not judgmentally, but wisely and concerned, because if you lend your opinion as to the erection of a temple and that temple falls, you will be partly responsible.

Matthew J. Taheri Paumanok Port Washington Lodge #855, New York

-Juan Sepulveda

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