When it is said that it is necessary that we return to fundamentals it is easily misunderstood. This return does not mean more of the "same old, same old". It will seem like a radical change. It will seem revolutionary. It will not be accepted by all. The necessary changes will be resisted by those who maintain the status quo - those that want to advertise Freemasonry, extol its virtues, and convince the community how wonderful we are. Some of these formerly supporting members may even leave, again decreasing the membership, before growth begins anew.
Lodge meetings will undergo a fundamental change. It is too much to explain the details here. There will be a continuity from meeting to meeting. Sometimes there will be themes. Freemasonry will not be about knowledge, though a little bit will be taught, it will be about change of our being. It will be about practical application of the symbols and working tools to oneself in our daily life. Brothers will speak about intimate things and secrets will be necessary to maintain integrity and trust. The secrets are not the now well known ritual. The secrets are the private statements from one brother to another within a tiled lodge. Brothers will learn how not to lie and to seek the Truth. But first leaders must be trained. Leaders who do not want to be leaders. Leaders with no hubris. Leaders who lead by example with humility. Leaders with fortitude.
All this is on the event horizon.
---C.H.