Last month we wrote that there are three degrees and they are the Entered Apprentice, Fellow craft and Master Mason.
In the early days of the guilds, an Apprentice learned the tools and skills of the trade. As a “Fellow of the craft” he showed his abilities to work hard and well and when he gained exceptional skills he became a “Master of the craft”. When a Mason receives the third degree he becomes a Master Mason and full member of the fraternity.
A man first becomes a Mason at his local Lodge. After he has advanced through the degrees, he may join any of the other Masonic organizations, each of which focuses on different aspects of Freemasonry.
The best known in the United States are the Scottish Rite, York Rite and Shrine.
A Mason may choose to obtain additional degrees through either Scottish Rite or York Rite.
In addition, California has four Research Lodges dedicated to promoting scholarly Masonic study and discussion.
There are Masonic organizations that admit both men and women, which offers couples the opportunity to share in the Masonic experience. The best known, Eastern Star, is the largest coed fraternal society in the world.
Our three youth groups share a common goal of character building and community service. Established nearly a century ago, the groups are DeMolay International for young men, and Rainbow for Girls and Job’s Daughters for young women.
There are many questions asked about Masonry. Here we will address some of the more common questions.
Is Masonry a secret organization?
It isn’t really, although at times it has had that reputation. Masons don’t make a secret of the fact they are members of the fraternity. We hold community events, Masonic buildings are clearly marked and are usually listed in the phone book and on Google. Lodge activities are not secret. Our events are often listed in the newspapers especially in small towns.
As with any fraternity or sorority, there are secrets and private meetings. First are the ways in which a can identify himself as a Mason, which are grips and passwords. This is the same for any fraternity or sorority. Second are Masonic ceremonies, which are private and for members only, but not secret.
The past couple of months we have been working to initiate, pass and raise brothers in the lodge. All of the Brothers who have helped in making sure our degrees are effective and memorable.
