Freemasonry is the worlds first and largest fraternal organization. It is a
body of knowledge and a system of ethics based on the belief that each man
has a responsibility to improve himself while being devoted to his family,
faith, country, and fraternity.
The mission of the Grand Lodge of California is to understand and convey the
wisdom of Masonic teachings to its constituent lodges in a way that engages
and inspires members to conduct their lives according to Masonic tenets and
values. The Grand Lodge charters and guides Masonic lodges within
California and provides important resources and unity to lodges and
members.
Our Mission is guided by the enduring and relevant tenets of our fraternity -
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth - and our core values, which include:
Tolerance
The fraternity values religious, ethnic, cultural, social, and educational
differences. We respect the opinions of others and strive to improve
and develop as human beings.
Freedom
Masons value the liberties outlined in the U.S. Constitution and
continually promote freedom of speech and expression, freedom to
worship a Supreme Being in an individual way, and other important
liberties. We believe it is our duty to vote in public elections and to
exercise all of our liberties within due and proper bounds.
Philanthropy
We make a difference in our communities through charitable giving,
community service, and volunteerism.
Family
We strive to be better spouses, parents, and family members and are
committed to protecting the well being of members and their families,
especially when they are in need.
Personal growth
Our continuous pursuit of knowledge, ethics, spirituality, and
leadership brings more meaning to our lives.
Ethics
Our lives are based on honor and integrity, and we believe that
honesty, compassion, trust, and knowledge are important.
Freemasonry in California is a relevant and respected fraternity committed
to attracting, developing, and retaining members of high quality who seek
self-improvement and opportunities to make a positive difference in their
communities. Through the study of our heritage and dedication to new and
ongoing Masonic education, members understand and can apply the tenets of
Freemasonry. The organization is well led and governed.
Our vision is measured by member vitality, lodge prosperity, and the general
awareness of Freemasonry throughout California.
Member Vitality
Masons in California are informed and well connected to their lodge and to
the Grand Lodge. They understand and practice what it means to be a
Mason both inside and outside the lodge. They actively develop their
Masonic knowledge and share it with others.
Key measures of member vitality include:
personal and professional achievements
the quantity and quality of new shared Masonic study
philanthropic activity
membership recommendations
participation in lodge, district, Grand Lodge, and community activities
and programs
A lodge is a brotherhood of Masons who attract and develop leaders, retain
quality members and inspire pride in the membership and the community.
The prosperous lodge possesses the ability to:
attract quality members
impressively convey Masonic teachings through a relevant and
thought-provoking performance of the ritual
sponsor worthwhile educational, philanthropic, and social activities
govern and manage the business of the lodge and center association
effectively, efficiently, and with high standards of integrity and
accountability
maintain a Masonic center that demonstrates commitment to
providing a quality environment for Masonic and community activities
through the maintenance and renovation of existing centers, or the
development of new ones.
Community Awareness
California communities are aware of Masonrys mission and values through
lodge activities and programs that improve public education and the general
well being of fellow citizens. Lodges and the Grand Lodge effectively use the
Internet and local media to communicate with their communities.
Community awareness is measured by:
the frequency and quality of lodge participation in community
activities and programs
media coverage of Masonry
the quality of lodge and Grand Lodge Web sites
public inquiries on lodge and Grand Lodge Web sites
The following have been adopted by the Grand Master as initiatives for the
current Masonic year.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
I. Membership
Member Retention
Prospect cultivation and relations
Candidate advancement
II. Lodge Development
Lodge revitalization process
New lodge development strategy
III. Masonic Knowledge
Education
Improved candidate and member education
Increased and enhanced statewide educational events
Programs to encourage new Masonic research and writings
Increased emphasis on applied Freemasonry
Relevant educational resources for Masons, their families,
and communities
Ritual
Improved approach to instruction
Impressive conferral of degrees
Advanced technology for lecture delivery
Recognition of outstanding ritual work
IV. Leadership Development
Comprehensive training program
Leadership identification and cultivation
Increased awareness of leadership opportunities
Lodge officer development strategy
V. Masonic Center Development and Preservation
Masonic property standards
Standardization of center association business practices
Masonic center preservation and capital planning program
Preservation and utilization of historic sites
Preservation of historic artifacts
VI. Communications
Quality communication tools and improved websites
Expanded resources for lodges
Expanded distribution of Masonic information
Expanded distribution of the California Freemason
VII. Community Involvement
Community program development
Increased participation in community events
Effective use of Public Ceremonies at community events
VIII. Masonic Relief
Increased care for Masons, widows, and their families
Increased participation in Masonic Philanthropies
Lodge support for other charitable programs
Individual involvement in community relief