Bro Kerry LeBoutillier's paper, "Masonry and the Internet," explores the impact of the internet on Freemasonry, particularly through online discussion groups. He observes that while many Masons utilize the internet for various inquiries—ranging from website creation to personal assistance—there is a notable trend of members primarily seeking help rather than contributing. This raises a question about the alignment of such behavior with the core values of Freemasonry, which emphasize giving and community support. LeBoutillier highlights the existence of localized discussion groups that foster more meaningful exchanges among members who share common interests. He encourages Masons to actively participate in these forums, share their perspectives, and engage with diverse viewpoints to enrich their understanding of the craft. The paper advocates for a more reciprocal approach to online interactions, suggesting that Masons should not only seek assistance but also offer their insights and experiences to enhance the collective knowledge within the fraternity.
Kerry LeBoutillier – Australia
December 17th, 2025
March 10th, 2026
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education and_development
Short Papers Competition 2009
© 2010 Internet Lodge and the author
Paper 24/2009
Title Masonry and the Internet
Author Bro Kerry LeBoutillier – Australia
I recently joined a business network. One component of this network is discussion groups. Lots of
them. Thousands in fact. I put in Freemason as a search and found a group for masons. I joined it. I
found it mildly interesting but dominated by our US brethren.
The power of the internet can be in little doubt. Here is the first page of discussion topics on this site.
One brother wants help setting up a website for his lodge. Another wants some assistance publishing
a book. Yet another is looking for Masonic antiques. And the last wanted assistance to find the
kidnapper of his friend’s sister. All this might sound a little far fetched, but I assure you brethren it is
all true.
But when I look at this list, there is a common element which dominates. They are all asking for
something. None of them is offering to give anything. So I have a question to pose to you. Is this
really in the spirit of Freemasonry? We join Freemasonry because we espouse the ideals that the
craft offers. I don’t recall ever hearing that we are in here for what we can get out of it.
So let me move along in my little story. I then discovered a subgroup centred on my own little neck of
the woods. This was much more interesting because the subjects discussed were much closer to
what I was interested in. It was helped by the fact that I knew personally some of the members of the
group.
It is true that many Freemasons have embraced the internet and websites have abounded. But
websites express the views of a few. Blogs offer the right sort of forum but hold little interest for many
of us. There are many masons who have something to say but are unable to find somewhere to say
it.
I encourage anyone who wants their point of view heard, to join a discussion group. Offer your views
no matter how outrageous. Get some feedback. I would be surprised if someone doesn’t answer you.
You will learn about the craft through the views of others. You will start to appreciate the diversity
which makes Freemasonry great.