Brethren:

We belong to the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the world. Today, there are more than two million Freemasons in North America. Masons represent virtually every occupation and profession, yet within the Fraternity, we all meet as equals. Masons come from diverse political ideologies, yet we meet as friends. Masons come from varied religious beliefs and creeds, yet we all believe in one God.

When one thinks of America's early patriots, we think of Freemasons. Thirteen signers of the Constitution and fourteen Presidents of the United States, including our First President, George Washington, were Masons. Benjamin Franklin joined our Fraternity in 1731 in France. At that time there were several Lodges in the "Colonies," but the first to be chartered was in Boston in 1733 and the first Lodge in New Jersey, St. Johns #1, was chartered on July 3, 1787.

When did Freemasonry begin? Actually, no one really knows. Some historians try to say that the roots can be traced to 900 A.D. and others say that Masonry can be traced back to the building of the Great Pyramids in Egypt. But the first Grand Lodge, which was in England, was formed in 1717 and this is the date used as the traditional forming of our Fraternity.

Today, Masonic Lodges are found in almost every community throughout North America, and in large cities, there are usually several Lodges. A Mason can travel to almost any country in the world and find a Masonic Lodge where he will be welcomed as a "Brother."

What is Freemasonry? According to the Entered Apprentice Degree, "Freemasonry is a Beautiful System of Morality, Veiled in Allegory, and Illustrated with Symbols." It was established by wise and virtuous men. Charity and Brotherly Love are important to all Masons.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Freemasonry is how so many men, from so many different walks of life, can meet together in peace, always conducting their affairs in harmony and friendship and calling each other "Brother."

Come to Lodge and see how Masons work. As a Brother of our Lodge, you are entitled to be a part of all that we do. Start doing something with your Lodge. Brother Ben Franklin, I am sure, would change his quote that you see above to "The problem with doing something is not knowing when to stop "doing" is a activity that pays rewards."

Have a nice Summer Break.

Fraternally,

John Lacki Jr.
Worshipful Master