REINSTATEMENT - RETENTION - REVIVAL

The goal of Shepherding is to build a stronger fellowship and friendship within the lodge while trying to reach out and “Bring the Brethren Back” who have fallen by the wayside and or between the cracks through the years.  

This program IS NOT about dues generation.

The Three R’s of Shepherding

(can be done out of sequence or in combination)

The Three R’s of Shepherding show the full cycle of a healthy Lodge. Reinstatement is how we bring back the Brothers we have lost. Retention helps us keep the ones who are already sitting with us. Revival is about showing our Lodge is still alive by being active in the community. These three areas are not separate plans. They all connect and support each other. When used together, they can bring a Lodge back to life.

Every Lodge is different. That is why there is no required order. Your Shepherding Committee should meet and talk about what your Lodge needs most. Be honest. If you are losing men every year and no one is checking on them, you may need to start with Reinstatement. If your meetings feel dull or Brothers are not coming often, you may need to focus on Retention. If your Lodge is already active inside but quiet in the community, you may be ready for Revival.

Reinstatement 

Reinstatement means reaching out to the men who have been suspended or who never finished their degrees. These Brothers are still part of our story. Some may be waiting for someone to call. This step starts with contact. A phone call. A visit. A letter. Ask how they are doing. Let them know they are missed. Help them understand how to return. If they want to come back, your Lodge can walk them through it. Real conversations matter more than forms or letters.

Retention 

Retention is about holding on to the men you already have. Every Brother should feel welcome and wanted. That means greeting them at the door. Talking to them after the meeting. Checking in if they miss two or three meetings. A Lodge that cares for its members will keep them. You do not need a big budget. You just need real effort. Give your Brothers a reason to come back. Teach something. Share a meal. Make it personal.

Revival 

Revival is when a Lodge reaches back out into the world. This could be something simple. A table at a fall festival. Giving water out at a local event. Sharing your Lodge's story on social media. Helping a school or collecting food for a shelter. People notice when the Masons show up to help. Revival builds pride. It reminds the town that you are still here and still doing good work.

These three areas go hand in hand. Reinstatement brings Brothers back. Retention keeps them connected. Revival gives them a reason to be proud. Together, they bring energy and hope to the Lodge. If your Lodge will work on all three, you will see change. Not just in numbers but in purpose, strength, and Brotherhood. This work is not hard. But it does take heart. And it starts with you.