I am a new Noble. To say that I am ignorant about the Shrine would be accurate. Like any new candidate, I seek further light. However, I have met with a series of dead-ends. My initial contact to BeAShrinerNow went unanswered. I persisted and was finally obligated. I am currently having a difficult time learning about the Units and Clubs. My Temple's website is short on information. I have e-mailed the IP, Membership Chair, and my top-line signer twice and have not received a reply. Phone messages have gone un-returned.
On the night I was obligated there were two clear messages: "congratulations, welcome" and "get involved." How is a new member to get involved facing these obstacles? THIS may be a (if not THE) reason for declining membership in the Shrine.
I do not want to sound like a whiner; I believe in the mission of the Shrine, but if the organization does not "get with the times" membership will continue to decline. Men, young men, expect organizations to be web-savvy. They expect instant access to information. Websites need regular and constant updating. E-mails need to be replied. Facebook should be employed. Whether Shriners choose to accept these truths or not, they ARE the ways of the world. Adapt or perish.
I hope mine is a unique experience. I hope others reply and can point me in a right direction.
On the night I was obligated there were two clear messages: "congratulations, welcome" and "get involved." How is a new member to get involved facing these obstacles? THIS may be a (if not THE) reason for declining membership in the Shrine.
I do not want to sound like a whiner; I believe in the mission of the Shrine, but if the organization does not "get with the times" membership will continue to decline. Men, young men, expect organizations to be web-savvy. They expect instant access to information. Websites need regular and constant updating. E-mails need to be replied. Facebook should be employed. Whether Shriners choose to accept these truths or not, they ARE the ways of the world. Adapt or perish.
I hope mine is a unique experience. I hope others reply and can point me in a right direction.