The masonic way means a lot of different things to many different masons. Some search for enlightenment, others history and tradition, or even others, a drink at the banquet table. This is not to say that any one way is right or wrong, but is rather an apt description of freemasonry and what it means to masons. Being a mason is one of the proudest aspects of my life, and something I will cherish until I’m put in the ground. And as unreasonable as it may seem, I want the impact it has had on my life, to direct the same energy into those entering the fraternity after me.

Unfortunately that is not always the case, and there are some brothers who find that there is no value in masonry for them and therefore slowly stray away from the craft. I do not blame them, it is the lodge’s duty to see that each of its members are fulfilled in their masonic lives, as is it the duty of new brothers to seek out knowledge that is unknown to them. Regrettably, as they are new masons, they are sometimes not shown the paths that masonry can take them and are lost in the lodge, not knowing what they can do. As there are the various classes in popular role-playing games that define what a player is capable of, so is there a similar set of classes in masonry:

The Historian: Someone who seeks knowledge and is always on the path of learning. This mason will most likely dive into the history books and will soak up ritual history like a sponge. They will likely delve into the deep mysteries of masonic teaching that very few experience or understand.

The Scholar: Someone who has the rituals and by-laws at the tip of his tongue and can be trusted to deliver the entire working. They are a substantial asset to the lodge.

The Mentor: Usually the most experienced brother in the lodge. Takes careful care to guide new brothers as others look up to him as scale by which to measure themselves.

The Host: Someone who takes it upon himself to see that his fellow brethern are well fed at the banquet table or any other occassion. They are usually the ones who plan the parties and fesitive nights, and make sure that his brethern have a good time. Can also be a brother who keeps the entertainment flowing, and is always seen showing others a good time.

The Traveller: Someone who frequently visits other lodges. They are usually the ones who experience a holistic view of masonry from all its different perspectives.

The Philanthropist: Someone who takes up the call to charity in the lodge and is continually devoted to helping his brothers and those less fortunate. They usally have the biggest hearts and are the caregivers of the lodge.

The Teacher: Someone who teaches and guides new brethern during their formative months. It is their impression that will form the basis of masonry for these new brethern.

These are just some of the numerous paths that can be taken by new brethern. Of course, these are just examples of what is possible and it is up to them to decide what they would like to do as a mason. But in my experience, if they are not shown the possibilities, they are reluctant to take the next step forward, and it is up to the lodge to remove as many roadblocks as possible to the development of new masons.