I read with interest your well-written, accurate and informative feature article on the Masons in Carbon County. I joined the Masons in Connecticut in 1959 when Masonry was at its peak. I recently demitted because the organization no longer seemed relevant in our modern technological society.
The composition of Masonic membership has also changed drastically since 1959. Recently, in his opening address to the Grand Lodge of Utah, the new Grand Master pointed out that many professional, businessmen, and men of means no longer seek membership in Masonry.
The Grand Master also pointed out that major problem is loss of membership due to demits and suspensions for non-payment of dues. Utah Masonry has experienced great difficulty retaining members. The Grand Master said the new members must receive value for their dues or they will continue to leave.
There are many elderly Masons. Some older men do not like to change. Recently, when I asked one younger member how he felt about the Masons he said, “It’s boring. You go to meetings. The members that attend go through an opening ritual, read the minutes, have coffee and go home. They spend most their money to keep the building open and don’t have much left for anything else. I have chosen to be with my family. That is most important to me.”
Perhaps the remaining Masons will be able to turn things around in Carbon County. Indeed, they need to re-invent themselves. This would likely necessitate a change in the way members view caring fraternalism and what their priorities are. Only time will tell if the Masons survive. I hope they do.
—Dr. Joseph DiLorenzo
Price, Utah
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