Alright, brothers, let’s face it. Sometimes our lodges and temples can feel a bit…stuck in the past. We cherish our traditions (and rightfully so!), but that doesn’t mean we can’t embrace the 21st century and all the cool tech it has to offer. In fact, using technology strategically can boost our lodges, improve communication, and maybe even attract some younger guys to the Craft.
Here’s how I’m using tech in my lodge, and some ideas you can try too:
Ditch the Cash, Embrace the Code:
Remember fumbling for cash at the lodge dinner? Yeah, me neither. QR codes linked to payment platforms like Square (square.com) have been a game-changer. Whether it’s collecting dinner donations, Saturday breakfast fees, or even annual dues, a quick scan and tap on their phone, and boom – payment done! We even used it for Shrine Circus ticket sales with great success. Stripe (stripe.com) and PayPal (paypal.com) are also great options with similar functionality. Plus, it makes tracking those funds a breeze.
Turn Your TV into a Masonic Billboard:
Ever thought of using those big screens in the lodge for more than just watching the game? I use a Fire Stick and Yodeck (yodeck.com) to create dynamic displays. Think:
- Fun Facts: Did you know…? (Insert interesting Masonic tidbit here)
- Upcoming Events: Don’t miss our next stated meeting!
- Welcome Guests: A personalized welcome message for visitors.
- Trestle Boards: Display a digital version for all to see.
The possibilities are endless!
Ditch the Leather, Go Digital:
Who needs a bulky dues card when you can have it on your phone? WebFez (Shriner Webfez) offers virtual Shrine dues cards, and the Grandview app (every jursdiction has a differnt page) (https://grandview.systems/) does the same for Masonic dues. Convenient, secure, and always at your fingertips.
Track Your Masonic Travels:
Ever wondered how many lodges you’ve visited? The Amity app (https://amity.copiri.com) is like a Masonic travel log. It helps you track your lodge visits, connect with other Masons around the world, and even learn about Masonic history in different locations.
Email Like a Pro:
Newsletters, event reminders, lodge announcements – Mailchimp (mailchimp.com) and Constant Contact (constantcontact.com) make it easy to keep your members informed. You can even segment your lists to send targeted messages to different groups.
Let’s Get Social:
A Facebook page, a Twitter account, an Instagram feed – these are all great ways to connect with members, especially younger ones, and promote your lodge’s activities.
Your Turn!
I’m always looking for new ways to use technology in Freemasonry. What are you doing in your lodge or temple? Share your ideas! Got any questions? Hit me up at sammy@locker357.com. Let’s work together to bring our fraternity into the digital age!
