Target MenToring in the Province of Middlesex
Target MenToring is now a core element of Freemasonry in Middlesex, aligning with both national and local strategies. While the Province faces increasing challenges in attracting and retaining quality members—due in part to external pressures like work, family commitments, and shifting societal values—mentoring has become a vital tool for strengthening membership.
The real issue often lies not in attracting new members, but in retaining them. That’s why retention is vital, and mentoring serves as a powerful means to enhance member satisfaction, fulfilment, and involvement—ultimately reinforcing attraction, retention, and re-engagement efforts across the board.
A Strategic Approach to Growth
To support this goal, the Province has introduced a formal Mentoring Policy. Under the guidance of the Provincial Grand Mentor and his team, Lodge Mentors—supported by Centre Mentors—will implement and sustain structured mentoring programmes. This initiative is built upon assigning capable, well-supported Mentors to Brethren, ensuring consistency and enhancing the mentoring culture across the Province.
As famously stated during the Installation Ceremony’s Address to the Brethren:
“I therefore trust that we should have but one aim in view… to please each other and unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.”
That spirit lies at the heart of the mentoring mission.
Target Mentoring Programme Objectives
The programme aims to enrich the Masonic journey for every Brother by:
Implementation & Delivery
Though mentoring is a nationwide initiative, it is locally adapted in Middlesex by the Provincial Grand Mentor’s team. With a structured, yet gentle approach focused on pastoral care, experienced Mentors will be appointed and trained to ensure the best outcomes. Awareness and involvement are encouraged beyond mentoring teams, aiming for a culture-wide embrace of mentoring principles.
Resources such as the “3 P’s” (Poster, Presentation, Papers), along with UGLE and Provincial websites, will support consistent execution. The framework aims to deliver measurable results and lasting impact.
Who Mentoring Serves
Mentoring supports both newcomers and seasoned Masons. From pre-initiation through to long-standing members, it empowers Lodge growth and revitalisation. Initially, the focus is on areas where mentoring can make the most immediate difference for individuals and Lodges alike.
Roles & Responsibilities
The Provincial Grand Mentor leads the programme’s rollout, supported by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and a network of Centre Mentors and Communications Officers. Lodge Mentors play a hands-on role in delivering personalised support and guiding others within mentoring roles. Day-to-day operations and communications are managed via Centre Mentors, ensuring alignment and feedback to the leadership.
Honouring Mentorship
To highlight its importance, UGLE now permits Lodges to bestow a Collar of Office to their Mentors. Middlesex encourages this practice, recognising the commitment and aptitude required for the role. Mentors are expected to participate in ongoing development activities, and their tenure is not to be considered indefinite, ensuring continued dynamism.
Visibility, Reflection, and Renewal
Mentoring should be visible and celebrated within Lodge meetings and at Festive Boards. Lodges are encouraged to embrace opportunities that underscore its benefits. An annual review process will assess the programme’s consistency and effectiveness, with feedback guiding continuous improvement.
By embedding target mentoring into the Province’s culture, Middlesex is building a more supportive, engaged, and thriving Masonic community.
