Month: July 2017

300 Years of Freemasonry
This year marks the 300th anniversary of our great fraternity! Join California Freemason in exploring the next chapter in the history of Freemasonry – from World War II to today’s brotherhood. 

Feature Story: The Anchor and the Ark
Our connections to each other play a crucial role in our communities, and in our own fulfillment and happiness. In modern society, Masonry offers an increasingly rare opportunity to build these connections. Here’s a look at the path the fraternity has been on since World War II, and the reasons it endures today.

Executive Message: The Future Is in Our Foundation
Grand Master John R. Heisner explains how Masonry today has been inspired by past members’ experiences.

Masonic Education: Freemasonry’s Workshops Evolve
As early blue lodges strengthened ties with their grand lodges, Masonic and social benefits began to flourish. Past Grand Master John L. Cooper III explains why.

Symbols and Answers
Past Grand Master R. Stephen Doan sums up one of his favorite Masonic lectures, recounts the moment his Masonic legacy hit home, and shares his reasons for giving back.

American Masons Who Shaped the World 
Read about American Masons who made an indelible imprint upon society as thought leaders, artists, and activists during the 20th century.

Democracy Brings Freemasonry to Light 
Masonry spread with the rise of democracy throughout the world. View a map illustrating the details.

A Global Experience
Learn how California Masons are thinking beyond borders, whether finding inspiration in readapting early Masonic rituals, or by building new networks worldwide.

Blazing New Pathways
David Okamoto views the future of Freemasonry through the lens of technology: bright and filled with possibility. Discover what inspires him.

Blueprint for Success 
From statewide support for Masonic properties to lodges operating outside the lodge “box,” Masonic real estate requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Young at Heart 
At Acacia Creek, life is filled with meaningful activities, lasting friendships, chances to grow, and – most of all – fun!

Home Where My Brothers Are
Learn how new shared housing in Covina will offer Masonic Outreach Services clients a home in a comfortable environment, amidst a supportive community of peers.

WEB EXTRA: The California Masonic Memorial Temple was dedicated at the 109th Annual Communication in 1958. See historic photos of its construction on the top of Nob Hill in San Francisco. View photos.

Read the previous issue: Explore the first chapter in our fraternal history – from 1717 to 1940.

More ways to enjoy this issue:

• Get the California Freemason app: Get on-the-go access for your iPad and iPhone; Android devices; or Kindle Fire.
  
• Print it! Trying to decrease your screen time? Download a PDF version of the magazine.

Have magazine feedback you’d like to share? Email your comments to editor@freemason.org.

Grand Master Heisner has declared July 2017 to be Support Our Veterans Month in California. Read his proclamation now.

This important recognition of service members in our Masonic family and greater community is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate veterans’ contributions with your lodge. Here are some ideas.

• Plan a special program during your July stated meeting to recognize veterans in your lodge.
• Contact your local VA to help identify veterans in your community and reach out to them to offer thanks for their service.
• Visit veterans in a local retirement community or VA hospital.
• Offer to help senior veterans in your community with home repair projects.
• Volunteer to drive local veterans to doctor’s appointments.
• Encourage veterans at your lodge to contribute to the Library of Congress Veterans History Project.
• Write thank-you letters to veterans in your community.
• Offer pro-bono professional skills to veterans – such as IT skills, legal aid, or tax preparation.

Support Our Veterans Month is a perfect time to partner with Masonic youth in your community. Set an example of giving back and help youth reach their service hours!

Share this story with your lodge! All freemason.org articles may be repurposed by any Masonic publication with credit to the Grand Lodge of California and the author. Print this article and post it at lodge; include it in your Trestleboard or website; email it to members; or use the buttons at the top of this page to share it on Facebook or Twitter.

Toast to Freemasonry during an unforgettable evening at the 300th Anniversary Gala and Banquet on Saturday, October 14. Held at the 110-year old Fairmont Hotel – a sparkling jewel atop Nob Hill – the evening will reflect the enduring sophistication and revelry of San Francisco’s golden era.

Mix and mingle during cocktail hour before enjoying a delicious seated dinner, with awards and recognitions throughout the night. Marking the culmination of a weekend steeped in tradition, as well as centuries of shared dedication to Freemasonry, the 300th Anniversary Gala and Banquet will be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of the bonds of brotherhood – and a night you’ll never forget.