Its all in a Name



Yesterday, I had the privilege and honor of traveling to Kansas City Lodge No. 220 Lodge and witnessing my first Missouri Degree. They did a wonderful job, and I found a few things I wish we did in our jurisdiction. That’s part of the joy of traveling. You get to see how other Masons practice their Craft. Then ask questions on how and why they do what they do. Some of the best Masonic Education ever.

One of the Friends, being made a Brother, had a name that was a bit different and hard to pronounce. There was a Brother, RW Rick Kingcade, a Grand Lecturer, who commented the Lodge, one that I feel was very important.

He reminded the Lodge that names are important. They are very important. RW Kingcade mentioned and I had not thought of it before. The only thing that friend brings in with him from the outside world is his name. So it is important that we know it, are able to pronounce it, and understand it. Call him by it as often as ritual allows, and beyond.

Not only is calling a Friend, and in time a Brother by their name, respectful. That name carried a bit of power. But what is it about a name that goes beyond just being respectful? Here are some things he did not mention, for the sake of time.

They represent our identity as well as our personal history, family background, and connection to our culture and community.

They are deeply personal, which means hearing our name can have a profound psychological effect.

They are closely related to our reputation, our honor, our origins, our parents, and, in many instances, unusual circumstances that surrounded our birth.

They tell a unique story and set us apart from the rest, allowing us to be identified in a sea of faces.

They can offer insights into our heritage, ancestry, and familial origins.

So from the time of a vote on a petition, investigating committee, election to the mysteries, and finally a degree. Part of getting to know your potential new Brother is knowing their name and who they really are.

Its all in their name

I love you and may we govern ourselves accordingly


 

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