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Masonic History and Teachings Page:

FREEMASONRY is first and foremost a fraternity. It is also “ A Way of Life.” The brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God is primary – this means that its activities should always be designed to promote friendship, morality and brotherly love.

Freemasonry is a unique institution that has been a major part of community life in America for over two hundred and fifty (250) years. It is America 's largest and oldest fraternity, and one that continues to be an important part of many men's personal lives and growth.

Although Freemasonry is not a religion, its emphasis on the Fatherhood of God ensures that the Brotherhood of Man follows naturally. This coupled with the obligation to abide by the Golden Rule, particularly with a fellow Mason, makes for one of the strongest bonds of society. When you meet another Mason, the odds that he will treat you as you would like to be treated are very high indeed.

Who are Masons?

Freemasons come from all walks of life – from the rich and famous to the poor and obscure. Masons are men who have joined together to improve themselves. The latter is accomplished through the principles and ceremonies of the fraternity and the application of those in their homes, in their work, and in their communities. They endeavor to extend Masonic lessons into their daily lives in order to become positive influences in their homes, communities, nation, and throughout the world. They base their efforts on morality, justice, charity, truth and the laws of God. Worldwide, membership encompasses millions of men who believe and support the same fundamental principles.

What Is A Mason?

(One man answered as follows)

A Mason is a man who professes a faith in God. As a man of faith, he uses the tools of moral and ethical truths to serve mankind.

A Mason binds himself to like-minded men in a Brotherhood that transcends all religious, ethnic, social, cultural, and educational differences.

In fellowship with his Brothers, a Mason finds ways in which to serve his God, his family, his fellowman and his country.

A Mason is dedicated. He recognizes his responsibility for justice, truth, charity, enlightenment, freedom and liberty, honesty and integrity in all aspects of human endeavor.

A Mason is such a man.

MASONIC POEM

Those men who help my dad each day, They wear those Mason rings.A Square and Compass set in gold, The praise of which I sing.

My dad, he hurt his back you know, One cold and wintry day. He slipped and fell upon the ice, The insurance would not pay.

And since that time those rings I see, On hands that help us much. With mowing lawns and hauling trash, Each day my heart they touch.

They even built a house for me, Amid our backyard tree. Where all the neighbor kids, Would play with laughter full of glee.

My Mom she cried from happiness, The time the Masons came. To aid our family in distress, Without a thought of gain.

And when I'm big, just like my dad, Of this it must be told. I want to wear a ring like his, A Square and Compass gold.

Long years have passed since when My dad was in that plaster cast. And since I swore that Solemn Oath, Which unites us to the last.

But more than that I'm proud to say, I wear his Mason ring. The one dad wore for many years, Until his death this spring.

And one last time his comrades came, To aid my weeping mother. They praised and bid a fond farewell, To our fallen Brother.

And after which MY son did ask, About their Aprons white. And of the rings upon their hands. Of gold so shiny bright.

With tearful eyes I said with pride, They're men of spirit pure. Those men who wear those Mason rings, Of that you can be sure.

And before he went to bed that night, The family he foretold. Someday I'll wear a ring like dad's, A Square and Compass gold.

Bro. Michael R. Strampe