MASONIC HISTORY

The Benefits of Freemasonry

More than just a social club, Freemasonry is an opportunity for personal growth and learning

Freemasonry is a centuries-old fraternal organization that is shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. What is it, exactly, that draws men to join this esteemed organization? Whether it is the camaraderie of Brotherhood, the charitable community involvement, or the opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement, Freemasonry offers something for every man. Additionally, every man has something to offer Freemasonry.

First and foremost, the sense of Brotherhood that comes with being a Freemason is truly unparalleled. The bonds of Brotherhood forged through Freemasonry are unbreakable and serve to strengthen the moral fiber of its members. As men, we often find ourselves isolated in our individual worlds, with few opportunities for genuine connection and bonding with other men. Family and work obligations take over our lives. While those are noble and always come first, Freemasonry provides a space where men of all ages and from all walks of life can come together and form meaningful, lasting relationships. It is a place where we can support each other, both in good times and in bad, and where we can rely on each other for guidance and advice to improve our effectiveness at home and in our work.

More than just a social club Freemasonry is an opportunity for personal growth and learning. The organization places a strong emphasis on moral development and self-improvement then provides resources and guidance for men looking to better themselves. Getting involved with fundraisers or becoming a line Officer you will naturally pick up skills such as public speaking, event planning, and organizational skills.

Many Lodges have charitable foundations that support a wide range of causes. Some Lodges choose to support local baseball teams or give scholarships to the local high school students going to college. Others hold food drives and/or support their local food pantries. Most notably the Masonic Medical Research Institute is an internationally recognized biomedical research Institute founded by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the State of New York. There are always opportunities for community giving and Freemasonry opens a conduit to allow your efforts to reach further than you can imagine.
We cannot talk about the benefits of Freemasonry without mentioning that it is a worldwide organization. Since you can find Lodges in nearly every country on Earth, Freemasonry provides an opportunity to connect with men from all over the globe, and to learn about and appreciate different cultures. Brothers have been known to connect on social media, Zoom call, and online presentations. There is even an internet Lodge recognized by most Grand Lodges. However, more traditionally, Brothers take every opportunity to visit local Lodges when they are traveling for business or pleasure. They reach out to the Lodge and the Lodge does everything they can to welcome their Brother. Supplying dinner, refreshment, and sometimes even lodging. When we meet a Brother Mason, we know we can trust them with our families, and they can trust us equally.
Freemasonry changed the lives of countless men throughout history and continues to do the same today. This positive impact on individual men in turn improves their communities, which improves their countries, and ultimately, the world. Arthur Edward Waite said, “To be a Freemason is to be a citizen of the world, in possession of a key which unlocks the door of Brotherhood and understanding in every land.”

Written by:
WB Todd M. Paterek is Worshipful Master, Lodge Education Officer, Northstar Coach, and Webmaster of Blazing Star Lodge #694 F&AM, East Aurora, New York.