Summary

In this episode of Riding the Goat, Dan Tooker hosts a conversation with Billy McIntyre, the Most Illustrious Grandmaster of the York Rite in Illinois. They discuss Billy's extensive involvement in Masonry, the current state of York Rite, challenges in degree work, and the importance of making Masonry enjoyable and engaging for new members. Billy shares insights on revitalizing interest in York Rite and the responsibilities of a Grandmaster, emphasizing the need for active participation and leadership in the Masonic community. In this engaging conversation, Billy McIntyre discusses his experiences and aspirations within the Masonic community, particularly focusing on the York Rite. He emphasizes the importance of making Masonry enjoyable to attract new members and foster brotherhood among different jurisdictions. The discussion also covers the unique aspects of York Rite degrees, the challenges of being a Masonic officer, and the significance of overcoming embarrassment in participation. McIntyre shares insights on promoting the York Rite and building relationships within the Masonic community, while also reflecting on his successful year as a leader.

Takeaways

• Billy McIntyre has been a Mason for 10 years and is heavily involved in various Masonic bodies.
• He emphasizes the importance of making Masonry fun to retain members.
• York Rite Masonry is seeing a resurgence in energy and joy among members.
• Challenges in degree work are prevalent, especially in outlying areas.
• Younger members often feel self-conscious about performing rituals due to older members' scrutiny.
• Billy is working to encourage younger members to take on roles in degree work.
• The decline in membership is partly due to the removal of requirements for joining the Shrine.
• Billy aims to increase membership and engagement in his role as Grandmaster.
• He believes that education and fun are key to revitalizing interest in Masonry.
• Active participation from leaders is crucial for the success of Masonic bodies. The importance of fun in Masonry to attract members.
• Promoting the York Rite is essential for growth.
• Building relationships across jurisdictions strengthens Masonry.
• You learn about the history of Hiram in York Rite degrees.
• Masonry faces challenges with declining membership.
• Traveling to other jurisdictions offers valuable insights.
• York Rite degrees provide a continuation of Blue Lodge teachings.
• Being a Masonic officer requires dedication and teamwork.
• It's common to forget handshakes and passwords; don't be embarrassed.
• Engaging non-Masons through lectures can spark interest.