Author Archives: masonicmaven

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 Masonic Maven has always maintained that, in practice, organizational leadership differs from corporate leadership.  In an organizational environment, like Freemasonry, effective leadership is more about persuasion than coercion, and consensus versus authoritarianism. Sharing this belief is … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 It is three days after Christmas and naturally, like most others, I look ahead to all the possibilities of a new year and new beginnings. But I can’t help but reflect on the year about to … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 Albert G. Mackey, in The Lexicon of Freemasonry, notes the following short description of ashlar: “Free stone as it comes out of the quarry.” – Bailey.  The Masonic Apprentice learns of the Rough Ashlar and the … Continue reading →

Author: RW Glenn L. Kubick, 2017 The overall design of the various collars that distinguish each Lodge officer are quite similar, except for the specific emblem suspended from the bottom.  Likewise, the actual weight of each officer collar is similar. … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 Money makes the world go around and like it or not it is required to operate your Lodge.  As such, the stewardship of lodge operating funds should be placed into the hands of a competent, dedicated, … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 The following is a dynamic list of potential skills, roles, and responsibilities for a Lodge Treasurer.  The lists are not to suggest that every Lodge Treasurer possess everything listed, but rather to raise one’s awareness of … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 Albert G. Mackey, in The Lexicon of Freemasonry, defines Hail and Hale, together.  Hail, from the Saxon word “hael”, refers to an inquiry, such as, “Whence do you hail?”, which may be used to ask from … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 No relationship can last without it. When lost, it is not easily found.  And it requires regular maintenance.  What is it? Trust. If you want to be an effective and respected leader you must strive to … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 (Editor’s Note: Reference related video and publications at the end of the article to view and read more about the events mentioned below) They gathered at the base of the hill, uncertain of what lay ahead, … Continue reading →

Richard H. Ryder, 2018 In part one of this British Freemasonry introductory series you received a brief overview of the Craft in England, Scotland, and Ireland; and an introduction to early British lodges.  This second installment describes the grades of … Continue reading →