With Freemasonry expanding to new jurisdictions, it can be tricky to remember what one can – and can’t – share. How does one navigate conversations?
Masons in California may discuss the principles, philosophies, and purposes of Freemasonry with Masons of rites and jurisdictions not recognized by the Grand Lodge of California. California Masons may not discuss the portions of the ritual that are in cypher, nor is intervisitation permissible.
CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS FOR A PERSONAL AND MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION:
- Why are you a Mason and what drew you
to membership? - What speaks to you most as a Mason?
- What in yourself are you seeking to improve?
- What are you hoping to give back to the organization? Your community?
HERE’S WHAT’S OFF LIMITS:
- Discussing the portions of the ritual that are
in cypher - Visiting tiled meetings of lodges not recognized by the Grand Lodge of California
The rules of engagement are simple, and you might find that members of other jurisdictions have an understanding of Masonry that is deeper, and more thoughtful, than the average member of the public. In fact, you might find that there is less that you can’t talk about, than what you can.
More from this issue:
The Heroes of Masonry: They Wear Aprons, Not Capes
Celebrating the best and brightest of Freemasonry in California.
The Exemplars: Meet the 2024 California Masons of the Year
Dennis Caoile and Henry Dosdorian, the 2024 Masons of the Year, demonstrate that the common denominator of Freemasonry is service to others.