Page 6 - Education Programs

undertaking, I asked the 2015 Resource Team to develop an educational program for Texas Lodges
to implement during my term as Grand Master. This is only a beginning as each lodge must develop
a regular, consistent Masonic education program that educates and inspires its members. A
program that propels each of us on our Masonic quest.

During the 2015 Grand Lodge year (December 2014 through November 2015), I am asking each
Worshipful Master to set aside a few minutes at one stated meeting per month to present the
following Masonic education programs or a suitable substitute of a Masonic nature dealing with
the symbolism, allegories, or philosophy of Freemasonry. As Carl H. Claude wrote in The Master’s
Book, “One thing and only one thing a Masonic Lodge can give its members which they can get
nowhere else in the world. That one thing is Masonry.”

In 1987, Grand Orator Harrison challenged us to develop a Masonic education program to teach
Masonology to our members. This program is a step in that direction. It is a noble task; however,
it will not be easy, it will not be popular, and it will not be fashionable. It will take effort and a
commitment by each lodge and its leadership to provide its members with Masonic education, to
add an element of intellectual stimulation to our meetings, not occasionally but at each lodge
meeting.

As Harrison said, “Masonic education awakens the interest of a Master Mason in Freemasonry and
makes him enthusiastic, while ignorance keeps him lukewarm.” While Claudy wrote, “The Master
whose instruction program is strictly Masonic has to send to the basement for extra chairs for most
of his meetings.”

Michael L. Wiggins
Grand Master 2015
Grand Lodge of Texas

Acknowledgements

My Masonic education has been influenced by many people, Freemasons and non-Masons alike.
Each has had an impact in some way in shaping my understanding of Freemasonry and my belief
in Masonic education as the key to our Fraternity’s growth and prosperity. To each of you, I want
to extend a very sincere Thank You. For those that have gone to the Celestial Abode, I have fond
memories and hope I carry your legacy in a suitable manner.

I want to thank the members of the 2015 Resource Team for encouragement in completing this
task and their contributions in developing the concept for this project. My special thanks goes to
Judge and Brother Kenneth C. Curry who championed this project and was the primary contributor
to the final product.

MLW
December 2014

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