Freemasons in Wilmington - One Man's Perspective

When my friends and family find out that I am a Freemason, I am often asked the questions, why did you become a Freemason and what is it all about?  What I offer in return are my experiences and my perspective on what Freemasonry has meant to me.

I have been a Freemason for the past 7 years and I currently hold the titles of Brother, Noble, 32nd Degree Master Mason, Companion and Sir Knight and most recently and one that I am most proud of, Worshipful. Just this past June I was installed the 79th Master of Friendship Lodge, which granted me this title. To say the least, I have been a very active member of the Fraternity.   Freemasonry has truly become a large part of my life not only for me but for my family as well.

Becoming Master of Friendship Lodge has given me a true appreciation for the Lodge and its long and proud history in The Town of Wilmington. Friendship Lodge is truly a local community lodge whose members are ready and able to help out not only its own members but the community as well in any way that we can. From our MYCHIP events, Blood Drives, Angel Fund, Handicap Ramp Program, and HELP program just to name a few, Friendship Lodge will continue to be a proud part of the Wilmington Community and I look forward to being a part of its proud history.

I can tell you that the journey so far has been absolutely incredible. I have met men from all walks of life all throughout Massachusetts and overseas (I visited a Lodge in England).  Men I otherwise I would not have met and have made friendships that will last a lifetime. For me, joining Freemasonry was truly taking a blind step of faith into a Fraternity, rich with over 300 years of tradition, to not knowing a single person, to having a network of friends that I can truly call my Brothers. For me Freemasonry has taught me a few things about myself and the world around us and about our interactions with our fellow man. Not to sound cliché, but it truly has been an enlightenment. Each man has his own experience in Freemasonry, and the best part of it we are free to determine our own paths within the Fraternity. The more you put into it, the more you truly get out of it.

Being a part of Freemasonry is not only for men contrary to popular belief.  Other than what are known as Blue Lodges, Scottish and York Rites, which are restricted to men, Freemasonry also has organizations that are open to women, such as The Oder of the Eastern Star and Daughters of the Nile.  There are also organizations for young women and men as well, Rainbow for Girls and The Order of DeMolay for boys.  There is something for everyone in Freemasonry. 

I can go on and on about what I love about Freemasonry, but this is only one man's perspective. Is Freemasonry right for you?  That's a decision you alone can make. It's a decision I will never regret.  I look forward to the many great years ahead and the new friendships I hope to gain as I continue on my journey thru this great Fraternity. If you would like more information about Friendship Lodge or Freemasonry, please visit www.friendshiplodge.com or www.massmasons.org, and when you see Ben, tell him I said hi!