Macoy Publishing & Masonic Supply
ISBN 978-0-88053-108-5
Also available from Amazon.com
This is an excellent book. It is a deceptive book in that it is an easy read about complicated topics. The author, Brother Dan Hrinko, PM, PDDGM, is a Doctor of Psychology who addresses practical questions of human nature in a Masonic context, and in doing so, gives us a thoughtful, original work.
The Craft in the title, of course, are you and me – Freemasons. The concept is simple. The Lodge should reflect and fulfill the wishes of its members, the Craft. He writes, “The Craft Driven Lodge is one where the individual members of that Lodge are in a position to direct the activities of the Lodge and to practice their desired trade, Speculative Masonry, in a manner consistent with their own needs, desires, and goals as individuals.”
Brother Hrinko helps us ask the right questions to put us in the driver’s seat. He is not prescriptive in the sense of telling us what to do. You may not agree with some of his views – he would not expect you to. But his book is very good at helping us engage in a dialogue with our Brothers. He explains that there are four fundamental principles of the Craft Driven Lodge:
- Everyone has a Voice
- Everyone sees the Vision
- Everyone has a Role
- Leaders let the workers (Brethren) work
He then walks us through each of the principles, and in part 2 of the book, demonstrates how they were applied in the formation of Arts and Science Lodge No. 792 in Columbus, Ohio. Many will find his practical example very helpful, even liberating in terms of not being stuck in old ways of thinking or doing things.
Thus, The Craft Driven Lodge is a tool to help Masons – officers and members – either explore forming a new Lodge or revitalizing an existing Lodge. I recommend it to all.
