CATCHING THEM YOUNG

CATCHING THEM YOUNG

Author: The Builder Magazine

Year: 1929

This piece of architecture from 1929 addresses the " staggering problem " that the overwhelming majority of Masons, estimated at 97% of the three million members at the time, know little about the fraternity beyond a confused smattering of the ritual. The author's main concern is how to address this widespread lack of interest and knowledge. The central argument is that the most effective strategy is " catching them young. " The author contends that the first year of a Mason's life is formative, and that if a new member is not given proper instruction and encouragement early on, he will likely develop an impoverished idea of Masonry and never make any real progress. The goal is to encourage the newly-made Mason to "approach the East," which is defined as the symbolic source of light and knowledge. While acknowledging that older, uninterested members also need attention, the author believes it is strategically more important to focus on new initiates while their enthusiasm is still high. The proposed method involves two steps. First, presenting the candidate with pamphlets or introductory books during his degrees to show him there is more to the Craft than just ritual. Second, once