

                       SENIORS HOLD ONE KEY 


                      F. J. RUTHERFORD, 33 
                    #810  5166 Lakeshore Road 
                   Burlington, Ontario L7L 1C3  

   
   CANADIAN author and futurist Jan Debrek states that in ten 
years fifty percent of the population will be over forty and one-
third over fifty years of age. 

   If maturity brings with it a clearer focus on the purposes of 
life's journey, then no doubt we can expect a wiser and more 
stable society. Will Masonry have a role in this renewal? 

   Surely one area to seek new members for our Lodges and Temples 
is to be found in our growing numbers of seniors and retirees. 
These older members are also fathers and grandfathers. Together 
they can produce a ripple effect of influence towards a 
membership balanced in regard to age. 

   How to reach the older prospective member is not as much a 
problem as the failure to recognize the needs of an older member. 
The problems are, first, how to approach the prospect and where; 
second, how to adjust to the needs of these members. 

   The answer to the first question may be found in the fact that 
many retirees are seeking the interests and activities we have to 
offer. Also, what they want to leave behind is a good influence, 
and Freemasonry gives them the opportunity for many lasting and 
significant good works. 

   As to where these Brethren can be located, others of their age 
grouping will find them at seniors events, at their churches, and 
in retirement communities. 

   The second question, how to adjust to the needs of seniors, is 
more complicated. What many do not like, for instance, are 
meetings that continue till ll:00 P.M. and are followed by a 
social hour which makes the homeward trip even later. In fact, 
many do not like to go out at night at all. How about afternoon 
meetings with programs and pleasant social activities oriented 
toward the interests of seniors? 

   In summary, Freemasonry can build membership on existing and 
new older members as well as by serving the interests of younger 
members. A successful law firm is often made up of senior and 
junior members. Each is essential. The seasoned members give 
perspective, experience, and stability. The junior members - 
junior only in number of years, not importance or influence - 
provide fresh vision, enthusiasm, and change. Together, they 
create a dynamic, growing Fraternity serving the interests of 
all! 
 _____ 

   F. J. Rutherford is a member of Waterdown Lodge, No. 357, 
Grand Lodge of Ontario, Canada, and has served as Most Wise 
Sovereign of the Hamilton, Ontario, Chapter Rose Croix. 
