- I recently had the opportunity to attend the York Rite Emerging Leaders first year training held in Boise, Idaho, at the Northwest Regional York Rite Conference. Throughout the preceding year, I had heard little bits and pieces about the leadership training. My interest peaked when I heard that the course was multi-year, sought out potential future leaders, and offered exceptional Masonic leadership training within the York Rite bodies.
As a retired United States Army officer and having completed a Master's Degree that covered leadership, operations, and management, I looked forward to gaining a Masonic perspective on leadership. I didn't know what to expect from the training. My desire was to participate in the learning process with the hope of taking something back to share with the brothers at my local York Rite bodies. I quickly noticed the selection of reading materials and found some familiar authors and titles that brought back memories of management and leadership lessons I have studied over the years. I also found a few hidden gems mixed in between Covey and other big names in management training.
Past Grand Master John Palmer of Tennessee developed the Emerging Leaders Training Program in conjunction with Past Grand High Priest Carle Jackson, of Louisiana. It has grown into a successful multi-year program. It was an honor to spend the time listening, learning, and interacting with Past Grand Master Palmer in course 101, and I look forward to spending time next year with Past Grand High Priest Jackson in course 201. The information was timely and full of useful real world applications that were well researched and superbly presented. There is no question in my mind that Past Grand Master Palmer is a master among teachers. He brings a depth and breadth to leadership and life. The Masonic mindset, principles, and teachings blended seamlessly into the academic leadership lessons and enhanced their meaning and impact.
The Emerging Leaders Program far surpassed many graduate level courses, yet it has a simplicity that speaks to each participant. The program has an emphasis on building our future and developing man's natural education, real world knowledge, and talents to benefit the mutual, larger ideals of Masonry. Since completing the first year portion, I've had the opportunity to speak at Commandery and Council meetings on the Emerging Leaders Program and have found many worthy brothers whose interest was peaked in the search for more light.
Sir Knight Ken Kraft is Prelate of Commandery No. 15 in Oregon, resides in Oregon City, and can be contacted at kraftken@mac.com
