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The Path Forward


In 2017, the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite commissioned the most comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the Scottish Rite and Freemasonry in more than 20 years.

The results of that study are outlined by former Sovereign Grand Commander John Wm. McNaughton in his the seminal work, Reclaiming the Soul of Freemasonry

Among many things learned, this effort crystalizes three important elements that forge our path forward:

  1. WE WILL increase our engagement with members of the Scottish Rite.
  2. WE WILL embrace technology to further engagement in between the times that we see our Brothers in person.
  3. WE WILL become a strong and clear voice for Freemasonry, working with all Brethren to attract good men to the Craft, and in turn, 32° Scottish Rite Freemasonry.

 From our anthemic Not Just a Man. A Mason. and Journey On campaigns to Thursday Night at the Rite, The Path Forward is the driving force behind the innovation and refinement of our programs and offerings. 

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Behind the Study & Key Findings

To design and execute this research, the Supreme Council worked with CerconeBrownCompany (CBC), an independent research and marketing firm with national and international clients, specializing in mission-based organizations.

Surveys were conducted on two groups:

  • To better understand member retention and satisfaction, The member survey was offered to more than 24,000 Scottish Rite Masons throughout the 15-state Northern Jurisdiction. More than 3,000 members responded.

    • The issues measured ranged from member opinions on Masonic programs to interpersonal conflicts between Brothers.
    • In addition to traditional questions that offered respondents multiple choice or ranking options, the survey featured a number of open-response questions. These generated more than 12,000 written opinions and suggestions.
    • Every written answer was read, categorized, and analyzed in order to make the conclusions quantifiable. This approach allowed us to truly gauge opinions, field suggestions, and otherwise read deeply into the state of membership.
  • A second survey was developed and administered to 1,000 men across the United States (ages 21-65). This phase of research allowed us to better understand American men today and inform member recruitment by gauging interest in the values and lifestyle of the Scottish Rite and Freemasonry.

    • The concept of Fraternity is alive and well: Beyond a doubt, the study proved that the organization’s message and identity is still timeless, and that there is a large population of men who would be willing to consider joining.
    • 79% of respondents would be interested in joining an organization that enables them to become a better person while helping to improve the quality of life for others.
    • 72% of respondents would be interested in an organization where men form deep and lasting friendships, regardless of race, religion, culture, or geography.

Book Review:

A book every Mason not only needs to read, but truly understand its message. There is no hidden message to be garnered. It is a wake up call and the author and researchers involved deserve kudos for forcefully putting the much needed words to print. (Amazon Review, MSC, October 17, 2017)

Order the Book

The Path Forward Campaigns & Resources

Armed with the right knowledge and tools, Masonic marketers can confidently and positively promote Freemasonry and Scottish Rite Freemasonry on the local or state level. 

Download our free resources to get started.

  • Our Anthemic Campaign for Freemasonry

    Not Just A Man. A Mason.

    Learn more about the campaign used by Grand Lodges across the globe.

  • The Campaign for Scottish Rite

    Journey On

    Journey On is Scottish Rite's signature anthemic campaign to instill pride in our fraternity while increasing membership. 

  • Best Practices for Promoting Freemasonry

    Masonic Marketing Series

    From Facebook to email and everything in between, you too can employ the same strategies and use the same materials to stoke Freemasonry’s visibility in your area.

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The Path Forward News & Highlights