Brethren,
As we embark on another Masonic year it is clear that a great many of our brethren in this Province and across freemasonry world-wide are using social media platforms to communicate with each other and the wider public to promote freemasonry and masonic events of all kinds. The use of social media across all walks of life and societies is increasing year on year, Lodges and individuals are using a wide range of platforms to share photographs, report on meetings and events and generally celebrate their masonic activities.
The use of social media in freemasonry has risen dramatically over the last 2 to 3 years, many Provinces, lodges and individuals use their accounts to talk freely about their involvement in and enjoyment of freemasonry. United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) has a strong presence on social media with more than 50,000 followers on Facebook, 26,000 followers on Twitter and 24,000 on Instagram.
Dr David Staples UGLE’s Chief Executive encourages the use of multiple social media platforms stating:
“Freemasonry is one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world, so it makes sense for us to use social media channels to engage with the public, social media is part of our drive to show the public what modern Freemasonry really stands for – integrity, friendship, respect and charity”.
“We are very proud of and our social media accounts and the hundreds of posts each day from dedicated Freemasons”.
The Province of Cumberland and Westmorland has thriving Facebook and Twitter accounts with thousands of active followers in this Province, the Province’s across the UK and many overseas countries, masons and the public from the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, South America and the far east as well as those closer to home take a regular interest in the posts from Cumberland and Westmorland.
The United Grand Lodge of England is launching a social media campaign to be the most featured venue as part of Open House London this weekend.
UGLE will be taking part in the world’s largest architecture festival Open House London on 21-22 September – offering visitors architectural tours, fun family activities and access to the Museum of Freemasonry. UGLE is also inviting members of the public to visit its stunning Art Deco building in the heart of Covent Garden and post their pictures on social media using the hashtag #OHLFMH.
Freemasons’ Hall stands on Great Queen Street on a site that has been used to hold meetings for Freemasons since 1775. The current building was opened in 1933 as a peace memorial to honour the thousands of Freemasons who fought and died during the First World War.
For those who are users of social media and for those who are considering opening accounts our Rt.W.Provincial Grand Master William John Bewley and I would encourage you to look at the Social Media Guidance available on the UGLE website, https://www.ugle.org.uk/2-uncategorised/292-social-media-policy-guidelines the page gives good information on the use of social media and the expectations on us as Freemasons.
Fraternally yours,
Peter Clark PAGDC
