This is what I posed on the MoT facebook page. It'll ruffle some feathers...
The other day I opened my mailbox and noticed there was an urgent letter from the Grand Lodge of Texas. Hurriedly, I opened it up only to notice pictures of a bag, keychain, etc.
I'm not really interested in merchandise, especially when it's being solicited. Then I see a long message from our M.W. Grand Master asking for more $$$ because the GLofTX has a budget shortfall of $400k!!! What about the local Lodges that are on the brink of demise? Where can they get help? Should they continue making Freemasonry a sign up sheet for fundraisers? That's what Masonry is evolving into.
The biggest turnoff new members have is being rushed through the "Chairs" and being asked to work their tails off because the Lodge "needs them". It should be the other way around! Does YOUR Lodge teach the symbolism of Freemasonry or do they prefer bickering over light bills, who will mow the lawn, who provides the next meal, etc?
To the Grand Lodge of Texas. A $400k+ budget shortfall this year? Why not look at ways at cutting back? How come members haven't been proposed a plan to reduce the budget? Year after year we are told sad tales on how we NEED the Grand Lodge and that we NEED to support it. What's the plan other than soliciting funds? I'm listening.
The Masons of Texas received this letter, yet continue to bust our tails trying to keep our own doors open. We're asked to perform acts of charity, keep our lights on, send GL money AND if there's any time or effort left, teach Freemasonry.
I know each year we're told that Freemasonry is growing in new membership, but what the Grand Lodge fails to mention is the hundreds, if not thousands of Brethren we loose every year. Unless we, as Texas Masons, get someone in the Grand East who understands that tough times lie ahead and difficult choices have to be made, nothing will change, it will only get worse.
Blake L. Bowden
W.M. Gonzales No. 30 A.F. & A.M.
Founder of Masons of Texas and Freemason Connect