Freemasonry in 2025: Enduring Relevance
One of the biggest misconceptions about Freemasonry is that it's a cult. However, it’s more accurate description might be an "occult". The word "occult" simply means "hidden" (from the Latin "occultus," meaning "hidden").
In Freemasonry, the "hidden" aspects aren't about sinister secrets but rather - what’s hidden inside you. That which you have not revealed to yourself (yet). It’s about knowledge and self-discovery that is revealed gradually to its members.
This revelation often involves a personal, spiritual journey, connecting the member to a sense of something greater than themselves – whether that's called the Creator, the Great Architect of the Universe, God or simply a higher power. This journey is guided by the exploration of virtues and life lessons presented through symbolic degrees.✦
At its heart, Freemasonry is built upon core values that remain profoundly relevant: brotherly love, relief, and truth. Brotherly love fosters a sense of community and mutual support, something deeply needed in our world which seems to promote divisiveness. Relief translates into charitable work, both within the fraternity, the community and around the world. And truth, pursued through ethical conduct and the search for knowledge, provides a moral compass for individual action.
To remain relevant, Freemasonry, like any institution, must adapt.
~ Solomon's Staircase
Freemasonry's contribution to self-development is significant. By engaging with Masonic teachings, members are encouraged to reflect on their (personal) values, to improve their character, and strive for personal excellence. The fraternity delves into philosophy, spirituality, and history, prompting members to see life through a broader and more thoughtful lens. This helps “unlearn” some things which society focuses on. This process of intellectual and moral exploration can be transformative.
And Freemasonry isn't just an inward-focused organization. Lodges actively engage in community work, donating food to shelters, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive difference and even partnering with organizations like Major League Baseball.✶ This can range from supporting youth programs like the Boys & Girls Club and Child ID programs to honoring the service of local first responders and participating in community clean-ups.
To remain relevant, Freemasonry, like any institution, must adapt. While preserving its time-honored traditions, California Masons embrace modern tools like social media, apps, and online communication to share stories and connect with a new generation. This allows the fraternity to showcase its enduring value and demonstrate how its principles can positively influence a man's life, his family, and the world around him.
✦ This is not to indicate that Freemasonry is the only source for one to find their inner self or true meaning. Many have found this through religion, spiritual awakening, and other writings like the Torah or Chinese Taoism.
✶ Source: Masons4Mitts, California Freemasonry partnering with 4 MLB teams to help promote sports in the communities, provide a mitt for all T-ball kids and help raise funds for their RBI programs.
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