Brethren– Just prior to composing this message I received an e-mail from a friend with an attachment that included an article from the Los Angeles Times dated May 18, 2008, “Freemasonry in the midst of popularity, membership boom”. I found it quite interesting; in fact it reminded me a bit of Warren #13 with sort of a California twist. It describes how Freemasonry is “booming” in Southern Ca.- “KAbooming” in our case with men in their 20s sharing camaraderie and fellowship with men in their 80s. Some wearing full dress tuxedos while others in more casual dress maybe showing a tattoo or some piercing, some financially set and others still struggling a bit, but all on an even keel in the Craft. It goes on to say that we numbered over 4 million in the 50s, but membership plummeted to just 1.5 million today, however the trend seems to be reversing itself and we are making a comeback. They credit this to the internet, as most Lodges now have websites and has made it easier to learn about Freemasonry since we don’t actively solicit membership. It also gives prospective members information about our Fraternity that previously wasn’t available until one would actually join. The advantage of this is that new candidates already have some knowledge as to what Freemasonry is and are thus more likely to be active members and to stay active. They know that as Masons they can make a positive difference and that the rewards of being a Brother can be priceless. Brethren this is good news. Let’s keep it going by helping our new Brothers realize their benevolent expectations and assure that this trend is not short lived. Be proud to be a Mason-we do make the world a better place to live.

John P. Hosterman

Worshipful Master