It’s one of the tougher challenges we face: How can we successfully promote Freemasonry to others? How can we most effectively communicate to others the deep enrichment we receive by being brothers—and the enrichment we bring to others in our community?
Let’s take a couple of minutes to shine light on a few of the very best ways for you to help promote Freemasonry.
Identify Your Best Prospects
Like an archer roaming through the Maine woods, there’s no point having a great bow and arrow if you don’t know what your target is. So grab a cup of coffee, sit down in your favorite easy chair, and start brainstorming: Who do you know at work … at church … in your neighborhood … or in another organization … who shares your values? Which of your male colleagues seems to have a passion for empowering others and the local community? Who do you know who may benefit from the values-centered friendship and brotherhood he would gain by being a Mason?
Inviting Prospects to Learn More
Once you’ve identified likely prospects, begin to reach out to them in a variety of ways. One of the best ways is to simply talk about your experiences with them. Remember that speaking simply, openly, and honestly is ALWAYS more effective than engaging in “hard sell” techniques. Simply say something like, “I’ve been involved in Masons for X years, and it has really enriched my life … in a way that also enriches others. Would you like to hear about my experiences sometime?” If your prospect says, “Yes,” be sure to let him know about The Valley of Portland website (ValleyofPortland.org) as you speak to him.
Community Events Promotion
Another great way to promote Freemasonry is by using various community events to help spread the word. Consider hosting a “What Are Masons All About?” event at your lodge, and invite male prospects from around your local community. If the event will be held in Portland, use the FREE “Events listing” feature offered by the Portland Press Herald to get the word out to many potential prospects at no cost. This free advertising method can, of course, be used to promote any other Masonic events to which the public may be invited, as well.
Social Media Power
In this day and age, “it’s all about social media,” so be sure to use such things as blogs, emails, and posts to achieve maximum outreach. After you talk with prospective Masons at your workplace, church, civic organization, etc., about your personal experience, ask them if they would like to be placed on The Valley of Portland’s email list. In this way, they will receive our monthly blog, plus other news and updates. Use all social media in which you are engaged (Facebook/Meta, Twitter/X, Instagram, YouTube) to spread the word about your personal experiences as a Mason and about upcoming events that could attract new brothers. You never know who will see something you’ve posted and say, “That sounds great—exactly like something I’d like to be involved with!”
Want to Learn More About the Valley of Portland?
Additional information about the Valley of Portland can be found on the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Scottish Rite website and on our membership page. Interested in learning more about local events? Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date and informed about upcoming events.
New brothers interested in joining the Valley of Portland can do so by completing this online application.
