District Deputies of the Grand Master. We’ve all (in Washington anyway) got them, and lots of us have filled that post.
What in your view, is the proper role of the DDGM?
How much authority should a DDGM hold?
What could a DDGM do to help your Lodge?
Has a DDGM helped your Lodge, or you as a Mason?
Has a DDGM harmed your Lodge?
Wherever the discussion takes us, let’s talk about our District Deputies of the Grand Master (or whatever that position is called within your Grand Jurisdiction)
The topic of DDGM’s is a good one. We’ve had some awesome DDGM’s in District No. 12, and our current DDGM, VW William Hubbard is a prime example since he’s doing a fantastic job. He’s easily approachable, offers great advice, and does everything possible to make sure we succeed as Masters. His special lapel pin idea that he hands out to “Super Stars” in our District is a great way to recognize Brethren. This was especially needed during this pandemic.
I feel it’s important to have a DDGM much like VW William Hubbard who keeps everyone informed, attends meetings on a regular basis makes sure all Lodges in our District are on the same page with the Grand Lodge.
I look forward to working with our new DDGM for District No. 12, whoever that will be.
VW William Hubbard, had special lapel pins made in the shape of a shooting star inscribed with the words “District 12 All Star” that he awarded to deserving Masons in District 12 who’s contributions to our beloved Craft was worth recognizing.
The proper role of the DDGM is to provide guidance and mentorship to the lodges as needed within his district. They make monthly reports to the GM on the health of his district. They should visit each lodge in his district monthly, even though they are only required to do so once a year AFAIK.
They do not, or should not, have "power".
Has brothers, in the capacity as a DDGM helped (or harmed) my lodge, or myself personally? I can't speak for the lodge, but for myself, no, I don't think I ever needed that sort of help, or was negatively impacted by our DDGM(s).
Can a DDGM help or harm a lodge? Of course. The DDGM should be conversant with the WMC and the ritual. If they see a lodge about to violate the code, they should advise the WM of the issue, but other than that, they let the WM run their lodge, code violations and all. They are not in charge of the lodge, and they do not (or should not) have the authority to order anything or anyone.
I visited a lodge a few years ago, and the lodge was very anxious to get a brother in as a member. Apparently this was a process that had been ongoing for quite some time (I don't know the particulars). Anyway, they called the lodge off session, the "investigating committee" took the brother into the preparation room, did their investigation, came back in, lodge was called back on session. They returned their reports, (all fair and favorable) and the WM called for a show of hands vote to see if the lodge approved his petition. He was voted in, and much handshaking all around. I was appalled.
This was a well established lodge, with an experienced WM, and the DDGM was sitting there all during the events and didn't say anything. I approached him after the meeting and commented on what had just transpired. He seemed aware of how that whole process was supposed to go.
Now, yes, he didn't (or shouldn't) have the power to do anything to stop it. But he should have said something.
At least in our district (possibly others) there isn't a line of brothers volunteering to be the DDGM. Much like the progressive line, the DDGM may not be the best choice for that role, but no one else is willing to do it. Our district only has four lodges, but most are struggling with membership and a revolving door of PMs in the line. The DDGM duties require a lot of time commitment that most people just don't have anymore.
So, does the DDGM system work? As designed it should, but the human factor plays a role. Does it need to change? Not necessarily, but due care must be given to the choices being made.
I didn't see, but I am aware of a situation extremely close to the one you describe with a man petitioning, being 'investigated,' and being voted in all while the meeting was going on.
To my knowledge at that one the DDGM wasn't present, but while the WM was very new to Masonry, there were experienced Brothers there on the sidelines. It was those experienced Brothers who sat there and watched it happening, without saying anything, that most disturbed me. The WM, rightly, took the fire for his wrongdoing, but those experienced Brothers should have at least tried to advise him.
With proper training and written expectations, the system of Deputies of the Grand Master can be very useful to the Lodges and to the Grand Master. Without training and expectations, DDGMs are place holders, title seekers and can cause great harm to the Lodges in their districts.
We are in complete agreement as to the need for proper training. It is never right or fair to throw a man into something without explaining the job and its expectations to him.
This is the charge that the Deputy of the Grand Master is given at installation.
"It will be your duty to exercise a general supervision over the Craft in your respective District; to visit all the Lodges therein during your term of office; to inspect their labors, examine and inquire into the state of said Lodge, and to give them masonic advice and instruction. Let the Book of Constitutions (the Washington Masonic Code) be your constant study, that you may be able to preserve inviolate the laws on the Institution, and impress upon the Lodges in your respective Districts the necessity of a strict adherence to our laws."
Properly trained (and that also means that the individual is listening), these words serve as a valuable guide.
Thank you for this reminder of our installation ritual. I think that when we are being installed it is hard to actually 'hear' the ritual, if for no other reason than our own excitement and anticipation.
I think though that much of our installation ritual can prove helpful, if it is carefully considered. I snagged a bit of the installation of the WM work this afternoon for an upcoming talk for example.
In District 3 of the Jurisdiction of Washington, Deputies of the Grand Master are commissioned for a two-year term, and serve at the will and pleasure of the Grand Master. The charter for a Deputy requires that the Deputy visit each Lodge in the District at least once during the term of office, and make a written report to the Grand Master on or before the first day of June. The Deputy is also required to make written report to the Grand Lodge each month, commenting on the conduct and mode of working, and the general state of each Lodge.
During my tenure as a Deputy, I felt I could not render an honest monthly report unless I had visited all the Lodges in the District. I wanted to be able to give the Grand Master and the Grand Line a running "State-of-the-District" commentary, noting strengths and weaknesses of each Lodge. I would offer suggestions and opportunities for improvement where I felt were pertinent, and make personal reports to the Grand Master where I felt emphasis was indicated.
Past Deputies in my District set a high example for me to emulate, inspiring me to become more conversant with the Washington Masonic Code and the Standard Work, and to be open, friendly, and encouraging to all my Brethren (something I try to do, anyway).
My one regret is that, as an appointed Deputy, I had no real authority to mandate a correction in practice and procedure where I felt it was needed. Lodges with deficiencies continued to stumble along as they always had, secure in the belief that no punitive or corrective action would be levied on the Lodge. “What you permit, you promote. What you allow, you encourage. What you condone, you own. What you tolerate, you deserve.” --Michelle Malkin
I suggest that the Grand Master give the District Deputies some teeth. After all the "suggestions" and polite discussions have failed to get the Lodges' attention, authorize the Deputy to suspend the Lodge's Charter for up to six months, accompanied by a printed plan for improvement. This would, of course be done by prior coordination with the Grand Master, but would be nonetheless binding. If the Lodge shows improvement after the period of suspension, they would be allowed to resume active meetings. If no improvement is demonstrated, the Deputy recommends to the Grand Master that the Charter be permanently removed, and the Lodge no longer exists. So be it.
All Lodges experience ups and downs, but there are no acceptable reasons to cease trying.
This is one suggestion I would oppose. Lodges have given up too much power to GL as it is. Having a district deputy with that sort of power undermines the authority of the WM and reduces that office to be a puppet of the DDGM. If things are that dire, the GM can come visit himself, or appoint a special deputy to go clean things up.
Quite a few years ago now, I was sitting in a Lodge, when the Worshipful Master kind of went off the rails.
He had done something completely moronic at the prior meeting, and at least one member of the Lodge had contacted the Grand Master to advise him of what had happened.
So, in any event, at this, the following meeting, the WM started throwing a temper tantrum, yelling at the members of the Lodge, making wild accusations. He wasn't in the East while doing this, the SW was in his place, so the tantrum was occuring down on the floor.
I'll not forget it, the DDGM very calmly stood up and made his way behind the podium. He directed the SD to escort the WM out of the Lodge, and the JD to close the door.
Was it within the rules for him to do that? Probably not. Did he have the power to do that? Not had the WM not respected him enough to actually submit to it. Was it the right thing for him to do? Absolutely.
He completely diffused a situation that was horrible, and was about to get much more horrible. He stopped it while words were still being thrown, had he not acted I could easily see where more than words could have eventually been thrown.
Are there any requirements, written or unwritten, to be selected to be a DDGM? Who does the DGM receive input from when selecting a DDGM? Should the DDGM that is to be appointed be someone that is well known and respected throughout the District, or is it more of a reward system? Is being a DDGM typically the unwritten path to being elected to the Grand South? We’ve had good DDGMs in our District. There role, as I understand, is to be the eyes and ears for the GM, making sure the minutes and financials are in order. The DDGM should never interfere with the day to day of a lodge, and should never get involved in personality conflicts. Only providing counsel when asked by the WM and then stepping away. From my own experience, I think GL needs to look at how they care for the DDGMs. The responsibilities of the DDGMs, especially in a larger District, seem to take a toll on the Brothers. I’ve enjoyed great relationships with the DDGMs from my District and have received great counsel from them.
>>"Are there any requirements, written or unwritten, to be selected to be a DDGM?"
Not really. Be a Past Master. Complete the PILM prior to installation. It is wholly up to the GM to appoint the men who will serve as his representatives.
>>"Who does the DGM receive input from when selecting a DDGM?"
Whomever he seeks it from. I think that most ask the current DDGM for some suitable names.
In my case, I watched as carefully as I could, as I traveled from place to place. In many Districts I was able to discover whom I wanted without seeking outside recommendations. In those I didn't have a good feel for I asked the current DDGM, the DDGM's in surrounding Districts, and my fellow officers.
The pandemic did make this more difficult. When MW Coffman was DGM we were able to 'interview' some of the Brothers under consideration while we traveled around, with the Pandemic I wasn't able to do the same.
>>"Should the DDGM that is to be appointed be someone that is well known and respected >>throughout the District..."
I think generally yes. I will say however that one of the best DDGM's that ever served in my District during my time here wasn't really well known outside of his own Lodge at all. I think that I'd only met him once prior to his becoming DDGM. Yet he was a tremendous DDGM. The DGM who chose him clearly saw something great within him, despite the fact that before he became DDGM he wasn't big on visiting other Lodges.
>>"Is being a DDGM typically the unwritten path to being elected to the Grand South?"
I don't know 100% for certain that this is true, as I've never looked it up, but, I've been told by more than one person that in all the time we have had DDGM's in this Jurisdiction, only one man has ever been elected JGW who was not first a DDGM.
When I was DDGM I felt that I was well supported by the Grand Lodge. MW Mendoza and MW Schoeben were both always there to hear any concerns I had, and to give good counsel. Things in my Lodges were very stable in MW Schoeben's year, but there were some serious problems within a couple of them in MW Mendoza's year. He listened to me carefully, and he took solid action in both cases which got both Lodges straightened back up.
I did my best to visit each Lodge in my District each month, but I think that might actually be too much. I think it is likely better to not hit every meeting of a Lodge as the DDGM. I enjoyed it though. I've had an issue with my eyes that makes it extremely difficult for me to drive when it is very dark, but VW Clayton Lavigne would usually drive me, and we had a superb time traveling around, visiting Lodges, and eating Midnight Denny's.
It’s been 10 years since I was a District Deputy. I found that once I was installed and proceeded to interact with the Lodges in my District, as well as the Grand Master, I quickly learned much more about what the Grand Master actually does, rather than what it appears he does when he visits your Lodge or speaks at a Grand Lodge function, such as a district meeting. That’s only the tip of the iceberg. Once you figure that out, you begin to tailor your contact with him in accordance to what he’s doing, what he’s occupied with at the time, also within the guidelines and expectations he has set for you as his Deputy.
From the Lodge’s standpoint, they will be summoning you from time to time to oversee, arbitrate, or offer suggestions and advice. It happened with me, and some of those issues were pretty serious. The Worshipful Master might say, “I’m at a loss on this one, Very Worshipful. What should we do?” For me, when that happened, it was sobering – I realized that what I suggested could solve the problem and allow the Lodge to move forward, or it could very well screw things up even worse. However, the Brethren of your district have confidence in you, as well as the Grand Master, or you wouldn’t have been appointed to such a position.
There was also a situation where the Grand Master directed me to preside over a Lodge to handle Charges that were made against the Worshipful Master and another principal officer. To date, that was the roughest experience I’ve ever had in a Masonic Lodge. Nevertheless, it’s what I had to do when I accepted the position. I do remember, throughout that whole episode, that I did my best to have that Lodge solve its own problem, though.
Also, even after your term as the Deputy concludes, you do indeed ‘return to the quarries,’ but the leadership will always know that you are a Past District Deputy, and you might be called upon to carry out a specific duty, to assist the current Deputy, or to be appointed a Special Deputy for a specified term to handle one or more situations. The current Deputies also might “pick your brain” about issues they might be encountering, because you might have been there in a similar situation.
And one of the coolest things about my term as Deputy? I’m still friends with the Grand Masters I served. It’s cool to kick back and chat with them to this day.
There’s a lot more to being a Deputy of the Grand Master than the Purple Apron and Jewel and the Very Worshipful Brother title. But it can be quite a rewarding experience. I’m certainly a better person for it.
During my term I was very fortunate to have VW Pat Murray as DDGM he attend every one of my meeting and would either offer praise or mention something for improvement. We developed a bond and visited the entire district (#6) each month, in most cases there two people sitting together that would be Pat and myself. And of course he got me into trouble (fun) a numbers time. He made himself available for any help needed, degree work or anything to be helpful. He always had a message from the GM and kept the lodges informed of the activities around the district. A DDGM does not need authority as mentioned, when he builds confidence with the lodges in the district his advise display his authority.
While I live quite a distance from District 6, I remember VW Pat as DDGM, and I agree that he was superb at the job. It was very clear to a visitor from out of the area that he served his District well.
As a member of Lodge(s) in District 14, District 15, and District 17 I have had very good experience with all the DDGM's. Two things I learned with talking with them over seven and a half years is that the Office requires organizational skills I simply don't have, and financial means I don't have.
I am satisfied with working in the quarry. I marvel at the work that DDGMs do. I just don't see that as a path on my Masonic journey at least right now.
I think that you are certainly as busy with Masonry as most DDGM's!
Who knows where your path may take you though now that you are a traveling man in more ways than one. If it was me, I'd be visiting our northern Lodges here in the summer, but in the damp winters I'd be looking to Nevada, New Mexico, all the nice sunny places!
After I charged up the batteries on our "new to us" Travel Trailer, the indicator shows, the battery is fully charged, the fresh water tank is empty, the grey water tank is empty, and the Black Water tank is FULL. I hope the indicator is wrong on the last part but judging by how things have been going lately, I would guess it is correct. Sometimes a new start starts by first getting rid of the old crap.
The pickup is getting full also and I will getting ready to make several. trips to the dump. Looking to get a clean slate soon for making the changes needed and to apply the lessons learned from the rough and rugged road of the recent past. Which leads to your next topic for discussion. LOL Looking forward to tonight.
I think I am coming to this thread a little late, sorry. When I became DDGM I was a bit apprehensive, as I had seen the job executed in many different ways. So, I reached out to past DDGMs I trusted for advice, and one comment stuck with me, "The job comes with a lot of cool jewelry, lots of responsibility and no real power." With that in mind I began my journey by simply attending Lodges, and listening to what people said, and what they needed. Slowly I began to find places where I could help, as a liaison between GL and the Blue Lodges, as well as between Blue Lodges. In the end DDGM is a true leadership position, in that because you don't have any institutional power, if you want to be helpful, you have to use your position to lead men toward behavior that expresses the Landmarks of Masonry. The power of listening can not be underestimated, just giving the Blue Lodge Officers a chance to voice their concerns and needs to someone wearing gold and purple. In doing that you can reduce the distance between GL and the Blue Lodges. As a DDGM you can do a lot of damage, if you talk more than you listen. A casual comment by a DDGM can be interpreted as a comment by Grand Lodge, and if you get that wrong, well its off to the races. I also found that when there are issues between brethren or Lodges, its important that everyone feel you are listening, and where possible you need to reduce conflicting energy rather than spinning it up by to quickly taking sides, or offering opinions without taking time to carefully consider the issues, and consult with your GM. this are my experiences, in brief.
No worries VW. All the threads remain open, and I think that, based on their email settings, at least some of our subscribers receive notice when comments are made on a thread they are interested in.
I think that you have given a lot of good advice here, and as we have a large number of new DDGM's coming into office soon, I hope that some will take it to heart.
You are very much correct that the most casual remark by a DDGM can be seen by his Lodges as an articulation of policy, so that needs to be carefully watched, especially when trying to inject some dry humor.
Happy Friday RW Sir and esteemed Brethren!
The topic of DDGM’s is a good one. We’ve had some awesome DDGM’s in District No. 12, and our current DDGM, VW William Hubbard is a prime example since he’s doing a fantastic job. He’s easily approachable, offers great advice, and does everything possible to make sure we succeed as Masters. His special lapel pin idea that he hands out to “Super Stars” in our District is a great way to recognize Brethren. This was especially needed during this pandemic.
I feel it’s important to have a DDGM much like VW William Hubbard who keeps everyone informed, attends meetings on a regular basis makes sure all Lodges in our District are on the same page with the Grand Lodge.
I look forward to working with our new DDGM for District No. 12, whoever that will be.
Have a blessed weekend everyone.
Fraternally and V/r,
Todd
I'd not heard of his lapel pin idea. Can you elaborate?
VW William Hubbard, had special lapel pins made in the shape of a shooting star inscribed with the words “District 12 All Star” that he awarded to deserving Masons in District 12 who’s contributions to our beloved Craft was worth recognizing.
I'd not heard of that, thanks for passing it along. It's a great idea! Recognition is important.
The proper role of the DDGM is to provide guidance and mentorship to the lodges as needed within his district. They make monthly reports to the GM on the health of his district. They should visit each lodge in his district monthly, even though they are only required to do so once a year AFAIK.
They do not, or should not, have "power".
Has brothers, in the capacity as a DDGM helped (or harmed) my lodge, or myself personally? I can't speak for the lodge, but for myself, no, I don't think I ever needed that sort of help, or was negatively impacted by our DDGM(s).
Can a DDGM help or harm a lodge? Of course. The DDGM should be conversant with the WMC and the ritual. If they see a lodge about to violate the code, they should advise the WM of the issue, but other than that, they let the WM run their lodge, code violations and all. They are not in charge of the lodge, and they do not (or should not) have the authority to order anything or anyone.
I visited a lodge a few years ago, and the lodge was very anxious to get a brother in as a member. Apparently this was a process that had been ongoing for quite some time (I don't know the particulars). Anyway, they called the lodge off session, the "investigating committee" took the brother into the preparation room, did their investigation, came back in, lodge was called back on session. They returned their reports, (all fair and favorable) and the WM called for a show of hands vote to see if the lodge approved his petition. He was voted in, and much handshaking all around. I was appalled.
This was a well established lodge, with an experienced WM, and the DDGM was sitting there all during the events and didn't say anything. I approached him after the meeting and commented on what had just transpired. He seemed aware of how that whole process was supposed to go.
Now, yes, he didn't (or shouldn't) have the power to do anything to stop it. But he should have said something.
At least in our district (possibly others) there isn't a line of brothers volunteering to be the DDGM. Much like the progressive line, the DDGM may not be the best choice for that role, but no one else is willing to do it. Our district only has four lodges, but most are struggling with membership and a revolving door of PMs in the line. The DDGM duties require a lot of time commitment that most people just don't have anymore.
So, does the DDGM system work? As designed it should, but the human factor plays a role. Does it need to change? Not necessarily, but due care must be given to the choices being made.
I didn't see, but I am aware of a situation extremely close to the one you describe with a man petitioning, being 'investigated,' and being voted in all while the meeting was going on.
To my knowledge at that one the DDGM wasn't present, but while the WM was very new to Masonry, there were experienced Brothers there on the sidelines. It was those experienced Brothers who sat there and watched it happening, without saying anything, that most disturbed me. The WM, rightly, took the fire for his wrongdoing, but those experienced Brothers should have at least tried to advise him.
With proper training and written expectations, the system of Deputies of the Grand Master can be very useful to the Lodges and to the Grand Master. Without training and expectations, DDGMs are place holders, title seekers and can cause great harm to the Lodges in their districts.
We are in complete agreement as to the need for proper training. It is never right or fair to throw a man into something without explaining the job and its expectations to him.
This is the charge that the Deputy of the Grand Master is given at installation.
"It will be your duty to exercise a general supervision over the Craft in your respective District; to visit all the Lodges therein during your term of office; to inspect their labors, examine and inquire into the state of said Lodge, and to give them masonic advice and instruction. Let the Book of Constitutions (the Washington Masonic Code) be your constant study, that you may be able to preserve inviolate the laws on the Institution, and impress upon the Lodges in your respective Districts the necessity of a strict adherence to our laws."
Properly trained (and that also means that the individual is listening), these words serve as a valuable guide.
Thank you for this reminder of our installation ritual. I think that when we are being installed it is hard to actually 'hear' the ritual, if for no other reason than our own excitement and anticipation.
I think though that much of our installation ritual can prove helpful, if it is carefully considered. I snagged a bit of the installation of the WM work this afternoon for an upcoming talk for example.
In District 3 of the Jurisdiction of Washington, Deputies of the Grand Master are commissioned for a two-year term, and serve at the will and pleasure of the Grand Master. The charter for a Deputy requires that the Deputy visit each Lodge in the District at least once during the term of office, and make a written report to the Grand Master on or before the first day of June. The Deputy is also required to make written report to the Grand Lodge each month, commenting on the conduct and mode of working, and the general state of each Lodge.
During my tenure as a Deputy, I felt I could not render an honest monthly report unless I had visited all the Lodges in the District. I wanted to be able to give the Grand Master and the Grand Line a running "State-of-the-District" commentary, noting strengths and weaknesses of each Lodge. I would offer suggestions and opportunities for improvement where I felt were pertinent, and make personal reports to the Grand Master where I felt emphasis was indicated.
Past Deputies in my District set a high example for me to emulate, inspiring me to become more conversant with the Washington Masonic Code and the Standard Work, and to be open, friendly, and encouraging to all my Brethren (something I try to do, anyway).
My one regret is that, as an appointed Deputy, I had no real authority to mandate a correction in practice and procedure where I felt it was needed. Lodges with deficiencies continued to stumble along as they always had, secure in the belief that no punitive or corrective action would be levied on the Lodge. “What you permit, you promote. What you allow, you encourage. What you condone, you own. What you tolerate, you deserve.” --Michelle Malkin
I suggest that the Grand Master give the District Deputies some teeth. After all the "suggestions" and polite discussions have failed to get the Lodges' attention, authorize the Deputy to suspend the Lodge's Charter for up to six months, accompanied by a printed plan for improvement. This would, of course be done by prior coordination with the Grand Master, but would be nonetheless binding. If the Lodge shows improvement after the period of suspension, they would be allowed to resume active meetings. If no improvement is demonstrated, the Deputy recommends to the Grand Master that the Charter be permanently removed, and the Lodge no longer exists. So be it.
All Lodges experience ups and downs, but there are no acceptable reasons to cease trying.
This is one suggestion I would oppose. Lodges have given up too much power to GL as it is. Having a district deputy with that sort of power undermines the authority of the WM and reduces that office to be a puppet of the DDGM. If things are that dire, the GM can come visit himself, or appoint a special deputy to go clean things up.
There are avenues for correcting errant behavior.
Quite a few years ago now, I was sitting in a Lodge, when the Worshipful Master kind of went off the rails.
He had done something completely moronic at the prior meeting, and at least one member of the Lodge had contacted the Grand Master to advise him of what had happened.
So, in any event, at this, the following meeting, the WM started throwing a temper tantrum, yelling at the members of the Lodge, making wild accusations. He wasn't in the East while doing this, the SW was in his place, so the tantrum was occuring down on the floor.
I'll not forget it, the DDGM very calmly stood up and made his way behind the podium. He directed the SD to escort the WM out of the Lodge, and the JD to close the door.
Was it within the rules for him to do that? Probably not. Did he have the power to do that? Not had the WM not respected him enough to actually submit to it. Was it the right thing for him to do? Absolutely.
He completely diffused a situation that was horrible, and was about to get much more horrible. He stopped it while words were still being thrown, had he not acted I could easily see where more than words could have eventually been thrown.
Are there any requirements, written or unwritten, to be selected to be a DDGM? Who does the DGM receive input from when selecting a DDGM? Should the DDGM that is to be appointed be someone that is well known and respected throughout the District, or is it more of a reward system? Is being a DDGM typically the unwritten path to being elected to the Grand South? We’ve had good DDGMs in our District. There role, as I understand, is to be the eyes and ears for the GM, making sure the minutes and financials are in order. The DDGM should never interfere with the day to day of a lodge, and should never get involved in personality conflicts. Only providing counsel when asked by the WM and then stepping away. From my own experience, I think GL needs to look at how they care for the DDGMs. The responsibilities of the DDGMs, especially in a larger District, seem to take a toll on the Brothers. I’ve enjoyed great relationships with the DDGMs from my District and have received great counsel from them.
>>"Are there any requirements, written or unwritten, to be selected to be a DDGM?"
Not really. Be a Past Master. Complete the PILM prior to installation. It is wholly up to the GM to appoint the men who will serve as his representatives.
>>"Who does the DGM receive input from when selecting a DDGM?"
Whomever he seeks it from. I think that most ask the current DDGM for some suitable names.
In my case, I watched as carefully as I could, as I traveled from place to place. In many Districts I was able to discover whom I wanted without seeking outside recommendations. In those I didn't have a good feel for I asked the current DDGM, the DDGM's in surrounding Districts, and my fellow officers.
The pandemic did make this more difficult. When MW Coffman was DGM we were able to 'interview' some of the Brothers under consideration while we traveled around, with the Pandemic I wasn't able to do the same.
>>"Should the DDGM that is to be appointed be someone that is well known and respected >>throughout the District..."
I think generally yes. I will say however that one of the best DDGM's that ever served in my District during my time here wasn't really well known outside of his own Lodge at all. I think that I'd only met him once prior to his becoming DDGM. Yet he was a tremendous DDGM. The DGM who chose him clearly saw something great within him, despite the fact that before he became DDGM he wasn't big on visiting other Lodges.
>>"Is being a DDGM typically the unwritten path to being elected to the Grand South?"
I don't know 100% for certain that this is true, as I've never looked it up, but, I've been told by more than one person that in all the time we have had DDGM's in this Jurisdiction, only one man has ever been elected JGW who was not first a DDGM.
When I was DDGM I felt that I was well supported by the Grand Lodge. MW Mendoza and MW Schoeben were both always there to hear any concerns I had, and to give good counsel. Things in my Lodges were very stable in MW Schoeben's year, but there were some serious problems within a couple of them in MW Mendoza's year. He listened to me carefully, and he took solid action in both cases which got both Lodges straightened back up.
I did my best to visit each Lodge in my District each month, but I think that might actually be too much. I think it is likely better to not hit every meeting of a Lodge as the DDGM. I enjoyed it though. I've had an issue with my eyes that makes it extremely difficult for me to drive when it is very dark, but VW Clayton Lavigne would usually drive me, and we had a superb time traveling around, visiting Lodges, and eating Midnight Denny's.
It’s been 10 years since I was a District Deputy. I found that once I was installed and proceeded to interact with the Lodges in my District, as well as the Grand Master, I quickly learned much more about what the Grand Master actually does, rather than what it appears he does when he visits your Lodge or speaks at a Grand Lodge function, such as a district meeting. That’s only the tip of the iceberg. Once you figure that out, you begin to tailor your contact with him in accordance to what he’s doing, what he’s occupied with at the time, also within the guidelines and expectations he has set for you as his Deputy.
From the Lodge’s standpoint, they will be summoning you from time to time to oversee, arbitrate, or offer suggestions and advice. It happened with me, and some of those issues were pretty serious. The Worshipful Master might say, “I’m at a loss on this one, Very Worshipful. What should we do?” For me, when that happened, it was sobering – I realized that what I suggested could solve the problem and allow the Lodge to move forward, or it could very well screw things up even worse. However, the Brethren of your district have confidence in you, as well as the Grand Master, or you wouldn’t have been appointed to such a position.
There was also a situation where the Grand Master directed me to preside over a Lodge to handle Charges that were made against the Worshipful Master and another principal officer. To date, that was the roughest experience I’ve ever had in a Masonic Lodge. Nevertheless, it’s what I had to do when I accepted the position. I do remember, throughout that whole episode, that I did my best to have that Lodge solve its own problem, though.
Also, even after your term as the Deputy concludes, you do indeed ‘return to the quarries,’ but the leadership will always know that you are a Past District Deputy, and you might be called upon to carry out a specific duty, to assist the current Deputy, or to be appointed a Special Deputy for a specified term to handle one or more situations. The current Deputies also might “pick your brain” about issues they might be encountering, because you might have been there in a similar situation.
And one of the coolest things about my term as Deputy? I’m still friends with the Grand Masters I served. It’s cool to kick back and chat with them to this day.
There’s a lot more to being a Deputy of the Grand Master than the Purple Apron and Jewel and the Very Worshipful Brother title. But it can be quite a rewarding experience. I’m certainly a better person for it.
I agree completely. I too really enjoyed my time as DDGM. WM was to me the most rewarding position so far, but DDGM comes in close behind.
During my term I was very fortunate to have VW Pat Murray as DDGM he attend every one of my meeting and would either offer praise or mention something for improvement. We developed a bond and visited the entire district (#6) each month, in most cases there two people sitting together that would be Pat and myself. And of course he got me into trouble (fun) a numbers time. He made himself available for any help needed, degree work or anything to be helpful. He always had a message from the GM and kept the lodges informed of the activities around the district. A DDGM does not need authority as mentioned, when he builds confidence with the lodges in the district his advise display his authority.
While I live quite a distance from District 6, I remember VW Pat as DDGM, and I agree that he was superb at the job. It was very clear to a visitor from out of the area that he served his District well.
As a member of Lodge(s) in District 14, District 15, and District 17 I have had very good experience with all the DDGM's. Two things I learned with talking with them over seven and a half years is that the Office requires organizational skills I simply don't have, and financial means I don't have.
I am satisfied with working in the quarry. I marvel at the work that DDGMs do. I just don't see that as a path on my Masonic journey at least right now.
I think that you are certainly as busy with Masonry as most DDGM's!
Who knows where your path may take you though now that you are a traveling man in more ways than one. If it was me, I'd be visiting our northern Lodges here in the summer, but in the damp winters I'd be looking to Nevada, New Mexico, all the nice sunny places!
After I charged up the batteries on our "new to us" Travel Trailer, the indicator shows, the battery is fully charged, the fresh water tank is empty, the grey water tank is empty, and the Black Water tank is FULL. I hope the indicator is wrong on the last part but judging by how things have been going lately, I would guess it is correct. Sometimes a new start starts by first getting rid of the old crap.
The pickup is getting full also and I will getting ready to make several. trips to the dump. Looking to get a clean slate soon for making the changes needed and to apply the lessons learned from the rough and rugged road of the recent past. Which leads to your next topic for discussion. LOL Looking forward to tonight.
I think I am coming to this thread a little late, sorry. When I became DDGM I was a bit apprehensive, as I had seen the job executed in many different ways. So, I reached out to past DDGMs I trusted for advice, and one comment stuck with me, "The job comes with a lot of cool jewelry, lots of responsibility and no real power." With that in mind I began my journey by simply attending Lodges, and listening to what people said, and what they needed. Slowly I began to find places where I could help, as a liaison between GL and the Blue Lodges, as well as between Blue Lodges. In the end DDGM is a true leadership position, in that because you don't have any institutional power, if you want to be helpful, you have to use your position to lead men toward behavior that expresses the Landmarks of Masonry. The power of listening can not be underestimated, just giving the Blue Lodge Officers a chance to voice their concerns and needs to someone wearing gold and purple. In doing that you can reduce the distance between GL and the Blue Lodges. As a DDGM you can do a lot of damage, if you talk more than you listen. A casual comment by a DDGM can be interpreted as a comment by Grand Lodge, and if you get that wrong, well its off to the races. I also found that when there are issues between brethren or Lodges, its important that everyone feel you are listening, and where possible you need to reduce conflicting energy rather than spinning it up by to quickly taking sides, or offering opinions without taking time to carefully consider the issues, and consult with your GM. this are my experiences, in brief.
No worries VW. All the threads remain open, and I think that, based on their email settings, at least some of our subscribers receive notice when comments are made on a thread they are interested in.
I think that you have given a lot of good advice here, and as we have a large number of new DDGM's coming into office soon, I hope that some will take it to heart.
You are very much correct that the most casual remark by a DDGM can be seen by his Lodges as an articulation of policy, so that needs to be carefully watched, especially when trying to inject some dry humor.