‘Chap’s Guide: Why Men Need Brotherhood’

    

Today’s episode on The Chap’s Guide YouTube channel is titled “Why Men Need Brotherhood: Joining a Fraternal Organization,” in which host Ash Jones explains the benefits to one’s well being of being part of something larger than oneself. Click here. In twenty-two minutes of monolog, he repeatedly discusses Freemasonry and, for the first time, discloses to his viewers his brush with the Craft.

If you are unfamiliar with this channel, The Chap’s Guide has been updated prolifically, with more than a thousand videos since 2019, garnering more than 100,000 subscribers and approaching 14 million views. (Makes America’s third favorite Masonic blog here look like a boutique enterprise, honestly.) He has no connection to The Chap magazine.

Jones, located in the United Kingdom, set out seven years ago to encourage men to express themselves by upholding traditions in gentlemanly attire and grooming but, since you can make only so many videos about dress shirts and shaving soaps, he has branched into mindset and behavior. In that regard, he has shared his experiences in reading books, reflecting on life by journaling, and maintaining robust physical health, among other beneficial pursuits.

He has mentioned Freemasonry in the past, but the episode published today is prompted by a viewer named Steve, who asks “Are you a Freemason, Ash? What is your view on fraternal societies?” A candid talk ensues in which he explains his membership in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes, which he joined as a young man serving in the Royal Air Force; and The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers, the London-based livery company where internet content-creators have joined the traditional ranks of printers.

Jones’ description of his interview with a Masonic lodge’s investigating committee is distressing. I have no experience with English Constitution lodges, but it sounds like something went awry then. He makes clear he is not opposed to our fraternity; he simply found it isn’t right for him.

“Shared purpose gives you, as a man, meaning in your life,” he advises. Who can argue with that?

Click here to watch the video.