According to the book of Ezra, Zerubbabel, was the governor of Judah, was tasked with the monumental responsibility of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after it had been destroyed; and return the sacred vessels that Nebuchadnezzar II had preserved after the conquest of Babylon. His story is a beacon of light that illuminates the path for the next generation of Masons, guiding them in the ultimate quest to carry the torch of the fraternity into the future.
Just as Zerubbabel did not undertake the task of temple construction alone, we, as Masons, must recognize the importance of building and nurturing the next generation of Masons and leaders. Our fraternity has a rich tradition of passing down knowledge, values, and wisdom from one generation to the next. It is through mentorship that we ensure the continuity of our mission.
Mentorship is not merely a formal tradition within Freemasonry; it is the lifeblood that sustains our organization. By sharing our experiences, wisdom, and values, we help new Masons develop the tools and knowledge needed to lead and serve their lodges, communities, and society at large. Just as Zerubbabel had the assistance of skilled craftsmen, we, too, must extend our wisdom to our fellow brethren; however mentorship should not be looked at as just acting as a mentor, but being mentored by those with life experience and wisdom that will benefit our continued growth as a man and Mason.
Too often mentoring within the fraternity is synonymous with the catechism process and providing guidance and instruction. It involves the guidance and support provided by experienced and knowledgeable Brothers (mentors) to newer or less-experienced Brothers (mentees). This mentorship should also go beyond the transfer of practical knowledge; but encompass the sharing of values, moral lessons, and the deeper understanding of the fraternity’s principles. It’s more of a journey of personal and moral development, where mentors impart wisdom, nurture leadership skills, and help mentees navigate their own path in their own life.
Being a mentor is extremely important to the continuity of Freemasonry and the development of good men, but is also important to the purpose of the Craft, which is to take good men and make them better. This endevour does not begin and end with the catechism, but extends beyond the ritual of the degrees and should be an ongoing part of one’s lifelong journey in the fraternity. To endevour to be a better man requires constant work and refinement. This cannot be done alone, but through knowing one’s self and constantly working on the improvement of one’s Ashlar.
Zerubbabel’s story reminds us that building the temple was not just about construction; it was about preserving and carrying forward a sacred legacy. Likewise, as Freemasons, our role is not limited to attending meetings and participating in rituals. It is our responsibility to emphasize the significance of this tradition, encouraging brethren to actively engage in mentorship and to be the guiding lights that will illuminate the path for those who follow. Let us remember that our fraternity is not just a collection of individuals but a continuum of builders working together to create a better world.
Learn from the past, improve in the present and build for the future!
It’s a great day to be a Mason!