Claremont Lodge No. 436: News

A Homeric Tale

On the 25th anniversary of the Simpsons season 6 episode 12, “Homer the Great,” we pay homage to one of the best, and certainly the funniest, send-ups of Freemasonry ever to hit the airwaves.

A Beautiful Experiment: Public Schools Month at 100

Learn more about the Masons of California’s century-long support of public education, and about the present and future of those efforts, in the latest issue of California Freemason magazine.

The Forever Home

For more than 60 years, California Masons have called the California Masonic Memorial Temple on San Francisco’s Nob Hill their home. At long last, it’s also their lodge.

Challenge Accepted

California masons responded to the #bluelodgechallenge, highlighting acts of everyday charity that are transforming their communities.

Family Matters

Meet American Canyon Lodge No 875, California’s youngest Masonic lodge—both in terms of its members and in terms of its charter, presented November 17, 2019.

He’ll Never Ride Alone Again

Last summer, Long Beach Lodge No. 327 member Dave Romero hit upon a fun idea to give back to his favorite charities: a 550-mile fundraising bike ride from Long Beach to the California Masonic Memorial Temple in San Francisco.

Annual Report 2019: The Future is Bright

Learn about the overview of the present and very bright future of the fraternity, from the charitable work being done in lodges up and down California to exciting developments on the campuses of the Masonic Homes of California to expanded relief operations launching in the Central Valley.

R.I.P. Finally

How did a 19th century Masonic tombstone from Piedmont find its way to the side of the road in Stanislaus County, 100 miles away? That’s exactly what members of Oak Summit Lodge No. 112 set out to discover—and to lay a long-lost brother to rest.

Golden Revival

Up and down California’s Gold Country, lodges are tapping into their unique history to chart their way into the future. Read more in the latest issue of California Freemason.

Striking Gold: Masonry in the Mother Lode Now

Learn about the new sound coming out of Auburn’s Eureka No. 16, a legendary Nevada County gearhead, and the curious case of a lost Masonic headstone in the latest issue of California Freemason Magazine, this month dedicated to the foothill lodges of California’s Mother Lode.

Rising From the Ashes

In the wake of the 2018 Camp Fire that destroyed his entire hometown of Paradise, Nate Smith—member of Table Mountain Masonic Lodge No. 124—turned to music as an artistic outlet—and found the big break he’d been searching for.

The Pin Code

Every fall, as the Grand Master prepares for the busy year ahead, he’s faced with the task of articulating the theme which will both guide his administration and define its legacy. And it needs to fit on a lapel pin.

Lodge Open House

Secrets of the Cloth: The Mystery of Masonic Folk Arts

Whether it’s through floor cloths, jewelry, woodwork, or aprons, learn about the stories Masons have been telling through these precious objects of interest. Learn more in the newest issue of California Freemason, Crafting their Legacy.

Tales From the Underground

Whether in underground caves or quarries, Masons have been known to meet in some unusual places. Learn more about how these underground meeting spaces elevated the lodge experience.

Take the #BlueLodgeChallenge

Whether your lodge is funding generous scholarships for local students or clearing trash from the roads or beach, we want the world to know about it with #bluelodgechallenge.

September Issue of Claremont Masons

Click on the image below to access the September 2019 issue of Claremont Masons

The Forever Pace

For most of the past year, Loren Newman ––member of Prometheus Lodge No. 851–– had a set morning routine: Wake up at 5 a.m. and get ready for an early jog… up and down a 1,000-foot-high mountain… five times.

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Armin Houshmandi, a master Mason with Golden Rule Lodge No. 479 and the founder of the riding association the Seekers of Light, puts it this way: “The asphalt is unforgiving and physics are unforgiving, and you have to learn to work within the rules and laws of life… Where do you really do that, aside from Masonry?”

Read the Newest Issue of California Freemason!

The July/August issue of California Freemason magazine is now available on our newly redesigned online edition: californiafreemason.org!

Summer BBQ

July Issue of “Claremont Masons”

Click on the image below to access the July 2019 issue of Claremont Masons  

Symbols of Femininity

On aprons and teapots, in the first degrees and the virtues and lessons of Freemasonry, feminine symbols are threaded into the very fabric of Freemasonry.

Of Their Free Will and Accord

Freemasonry’s relationship with women evolved during its long history. How has this relationship changed over time, and why are separate streams of Masonry likely to continue?

The Flame Within a Heart

The Order of DeMolay supports young men in building character and leadership skills that serve them for a lifetime. Its close friendship and enduring values provide vital support, cultivate deep understanding, and nurture emotional intelligence at a pivotal point in life.

Generations Connected

Two Senior DeMolays cross a generational divide and find commonalities through their experience in DeMolay International.

Mentorship is Meaningful

Adult mentors of our youth orders find that not only is mentorship helping the kids thrive and build important skills, it’s also fulfilling for the mentors themselves. Watch this brief video featuring Masons who mentor DeMolay chapters at their lodges.

Pin & Paddy’s – March 16 @ 6:00pm

Please join us as we celebrate 50 years of service and brotherhood by presenting Worshipful James R. Perry with his Golden Veteran Award! 

Coming Together to Give Back

In the 2017-2018 fraternal year, 18 lodges pledged – as Pace Setter donors – to the Let’s Write the Future campaign between $100,000 and $300,000. Learn why three lodges chose to write a better future for California communities.

For Our Children. For Our Future.

California masons’ partnership with raising a reader has brought crucial literacy training to nearly 600 classrooms – and we’re not close to done yet!

2019 Installation Ceremony – Saturday, January 26th @ 1:00pm

Please join us Saturday, January 26th for the 107th Annual Installation of Officers

The January Newsletter is Available!

Click here to download the Lodge Newsletter for January 2019

“We Take Good Lodges and Make Them Better”: A Master’s Manifesto

There is an implication that a lodge, being made up of masons who are “good, and becoming better” has by extension the same duty- to be good, and to work to be better. So how can we each contribute to the improvement of the lodge as a whole? That is the focus of this manifesto.

Memorable Moments

At Orange Grove Lodge No. 293 in Southern California, fraternity, and family are deeply intertwined with Freemasonry. Learn more about what inspires these brothers and their fun-filled Masonic experience – from luaus to support for California public schools.

Welcome Grand Master Wright!

Last Sunday, October 21, Most Worshipful Brother Stuart A. Wright was installed as grand master of Masons in California. We look forward to a year of growth and prosperity under his leadership, inspired by his theme: “Freemasonry… the difference is you.”

Commemorating a Masonic Monument

Earlier this summer, Grand Master Galloway joined the Masons of King David’s Lodge No. 209 for a ceremonial resealing of the Dorn Pyramid, a 23-foot tall granite mausoleum originally constructed in 1905. Robert Sachs, master of King David’s Lodge, shares the history and rumors of the Dorn Pyramid.

A Big Spark

Raven’s Rock Lodge, since it’s opened its doors on June 10, 2017, has been producing local events that revolve around education and the arts, aiming to lift the community while staying true to Masonic tenets and traditions.

Wonders of Masonic America

If you’ve been seeking an excuse to see the country, there’s no better time than the present. The lens of Freemasonry offers a fascinating perspective!

Masons4Mitts: Baseball Is Back!

Dust off those gloves and get ready to knock one out of the park for your team: The 2018 Masons4Mitts season is now underway!

Help Us Celebrate #MasonicDads!

California Freemason is launching a new hashtag campaign, #MasonicDad, to correspond with our July/August issue, which will focus on the theme of “Freemasonry and Fatherhood.” To participate, show us what Masonic fatherhood means to you!

A Tradition of Scholarship

The 2018 Symposium – taking place June 9 in San Francisco and June 10 in Long Beach – will explore the fraternity’s whirlwind arrival in California, and the daring brothers who led the way.

Of a Divine and Moral Nature

The term “sacred geometry” can be somewhat intimidating: How might geometry be sacred, one might wonder. And, how does Masonry fit in?

Youth Orders Appreciation – March 30 @ 7pm

California Freemason: Sacred Geometry

In Masonic philosophy, sacred geometry reveals ephemeral spiritual realities and personal truths through tangible architectural forms. From its roots in classical philosophy to contemporary applications, sacred geometry’s contemplation oftentimes leads to revelation.

Why I Became a Mason

For Past Grand Master John L. Cooper III, the promise of Freemasonry inspired a life devoted to its craft.

The Rites and Rituals of Freemasonry

One of the most interesting – and sometimes confusing – aspects of Freemasonry is its varied rituals and rites. To study them is to understand the fraternity’s wild creative streak and its ability to adapt to diverse social and cultural trends.

Mozart’s Masonic Magic Flute

Learn about this Masonic masterpiece from one of our fraternity’s great scholars.

A Spectacular Occasion

Masons from around the world gathered at the Royal Albert Hall for the United Grand Lodge of England’s tercentenary celebration. They celebrated the history and future of Freemasonry.

California Freemason: The Prospect Issue

Read about members throughout California whose Masonic experience brought them exactly what they were seeking: brotherhood, friendship, and the path to a more meaningful life.

Masonic Formation: From the Quarry to the Heavens

Masonry professes to “make good men better”. This implies that a good man is the only kind that we should allow through our doors; but even then he must realize that he can become better still- if he will make himself a vessel for the teachings and experiences that “make a mason”.

The Masonic Hand of Charity

From the beginning, fraternal relief was both innovative and practical.

Initiation in Freemasonry

So what’s all this “initiation” stuff about, anyway?

Initiation is not a word one often hears in everyday conversation. Other than a certain gym which calls the first installment of their monthly dues an “initiation fee”, it’s just not used very much. So just what does it refer to and why are Freemasons always using it?…

California Freemason: Into the Future

This year marks the 300th anniversary of our great fraternity! Join California Freemason in exploring the history of Freemasonry – from today’s brotherhood to what might be possible in the future as society continues to evolve.

AMERICAN MASONS WHO SHAPED THE WORLD

In the mid- to late- 20th century, our country’s Masons led the way for lasting change.

New Video: We Make a Profound Impact!

A new video created by the California Masonic Foundation offers an inspiring perspective of our Masonic quest to live a meaningful life.

July/August California Freemason: 1941-Today

This year marks the 300th anniversary of our great fraternity! Join California Freemason in exploring the next chapter in the history of Freemasonry – from World War II to today’s brotherhood.

July Is Support Our Veterans Month

Grand Master Heisner has declared July 2017 to be Support Our Veterans Month in California. Read his proclamation now.

300th Anniversay Gala and Banquet

Join your brothers and toast to Freemasonry during an unforgettable night at the 300th Anniversary Gala!

From Enlightenment to Revolution

Freemasonry’s fledgling years had an enduring impact on the future of Western civilization. Read the latest California Freemason feature now.

Masons4Mitts Supports Children in Need

Masons are teaming up with Major League Baseball teams’ charitable progarms to support children in need.

June Is Masonic Homes Month

Masonic Homes Month is the perfect opportunity to recognize the remarkable accomplishments of Masonic relief in California. Follow these helpful tips for starting a celebration of your own.

CALLED FROM LABOR

In November 1910, San Francisco’s California Lodge No. 1 held its 61st annual banquet and ball. The program, which included remarks by several lodge members, as well as music, was accompanied by a mouth-watering four-course meal. Each guest received a printed program and menu card listing the courses. Presented in French, the menu suggests a high level of elegance.

Around the Masonic Table

For hundreds of years, sharing meals with brothers has been a treasured Masonic tradition. In the newest issue of California Freemason, we delve deeply into this practice – from the beginning of the fraternity to today’s traditions. Join us for a trip around the world from Masonic tables to toasts and beyond!

The First and Most Important Care of Leadership

As Masons, we have made the choice to join a group of like-minded individuals to assist in our personal growth and improvement. Many of us have chosen to become leaders within this fraternity, as we find this aspect of the craft to be fulfilling.

Get Ready for Public Schools Month!

A priority of the 2020 Fraternity Plan is to make a positive impact on society. When public schools get the support they need, that impact is made not only in classrooms, but in the future of each student. Here are some ways you and your lodge can make a difference. Donate to the California Masonic […]

Celebrate Youth Orders Month

Throughout our state, young men and women turn to DeMolay, Job’s Daughters, and Rainbow for Girls for a unique environment of brotherhood and sisterhood. There, they transform from timid youths into confident leaders. They learn respect, patriotism, tolerance, and reverence. They form friendships that last a lifetime. To recognize our Masonic youth and to encourage […]

History at Your Fingertips

Freemasons have been active in California even since before it was officially a state, and many notable artifacts from every age are available online to interested Masonic scholars. Kick off a research project or ignite your inner history buff by exploring the collections of the Henry Wilson Coil Library and Museum of Freemasonry. CLICK HERE […]

Freemasonry Set Free

DECIPHERING THE CONNECTIONS BETWEEN PRINCE HALL MASONRY AND THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. By Tyler Ash For nearly 200 years, the Underground Railroad has been an elusive, almost mythical aspect of American history, shaping the way we view the cultural and sociopolitical landscapes of the American psyche during the 1800s. A key question continues to elude historians: […]

Masons of California Annual Report

In 2016, California Masons led the way on many different fronts for our fraternity — and now we are looking forward to our future. Read the 2016 Annual Report to learn more about statewide initiatives that will come to fruition in the coming year, and discover how you can apply the lessons and successes of […]

Acacia Creek Receives National Distinction

At Acacia Creek’s founding, its board members set out to create a different kind of retirement community: One that would unite Masons and non-Masons alike in a shared culture of respect, community, and enthusiasm for life. One where the desire to “age successfully” — to establish continued growth and learning as an integral part of […]

A New look at the mythology of The Travelling Man

In addition to the symbolism attached to architectural tools, Freemasonry is built upon stories and legends. And, no story is more intriguing than the one about the “traveling man” – the stonemason who traveled from work site to work site in search of a job. We have little direct evidence of how traveling stonemasons did […]

Welcoming California’s Newest Lodges

On September 16, 2016, the fraternity celebrated the institution of Regius University, U.D. in Fresno. This was followed by the institution of Benicia’s Carquinez Lodge, U.D., on September 23, and that of The Downtown Masonic Lodge, U.D. in Los Angeles on September 30. Between 75 and 100 brothers attended each celebration. It’s the beginning of […]

The Modern Masonic Maker

Since the beginning, Freemasonry has captured the minds and hearts of some of the most imaginative men of each generation. Though far removed from the stonemasons who envisioned and built Europe’s grand cathedrals, the desire to create something new, beautiful, and impactful carries through to present day. In this issue of California Freemason, Mark Frauenfelder […]

An Early California Leader, and a Mason

The Henry Wilson Coil Library and Museum of Freemasonry has among its archives an 1857 petition for the Royal Arch degrees of John Bidwell. Shown here, with punctuation added for clarity, the certificate reads: To the M.W. High Priest, King, Scribe, and Companions of Washington R.A. Chapter No. 13: The petition of the subscriber respectfully […]

Brothers Across the Pond

In 2014, Bro. Mark Rosen of America Lodge No. 3368 in England visited Pasadena Masonic Lodge No 272. Rosen had grown up in Pasadena and settled in England after moving there for an Air Force assignment. Since moving to England, he had been married, started a successful business, and become a Mason. During his visit […]