Hello,

First, I would like to say that as an outsider who has a great deal of interest in Freemasonry, and hopefully one day becoming a Mason myself, this website and forum is wonderful for gaining information and hearing the words of actual Masons...thank you.

Therefore, I was wondering if there was another “Open Lodge Day” in the works, as I feel that will be the best opportunity for me to inquire and learn more about the Fraternity.  I have asked family and friends and coworkers, and it turns out that I do not know a Mason personally. 

Also, is it a requirement to seek admittance to a Lodge in the town/city you live or work, or may you go attempt another Lodge if it would be equally as convenient?  This is a little less clear to me through all of the correspondence I’ve read.

Thanks for your time,

David

dkelly1980 - 29 June 2008 08:02 PM

Also, is it a requirement to seek admittance to a Lodge in the town/city you live or work, or may you go attempt another Lodge if it would be equally as convenient?  This is a little less clear to me through all of the correspondence I’ve read.

As a rule, residency requirements, if any, are on a state level.  You are not required to join a specific lodge just because you live in a particular town.

Normally, a man will join the lodge in his city/town of residence. This varies around the USA. Some states have “concurrent jurisdiction”, where a man may join any lodge in his county of residence. Some individuals join more than one lodge (I belong to three different lodges, one in Kentucky, one in New York, one in Mass). Also, once you are a mason anywhere, you have visitation privileges at all lodges worldwide. (Last night, I visited a lodge in Alabama, and participated in their meeting).

I suggest that you select the lodge you wish to join, and contact the secretary. If your residence is within their jurisdiction, then you may petition immediately.  If your residence is not in their jurisdiction, then the secretary can assist you in obtaining a waiver of jurisdiction.

Dear DKelly:
I am pleased to let you know of the pending plans to unveil the dates for the next Massachusetts Masonic “Open House”.  This very successful endeavor started small but complete and now has developed into a wonderful community based portal to the exposure and sharing of the State’s Masonic family.  The next “Open House” will be scheduled in October 2008.  Look here for more details.  Ronald Doucette - Moderator

Saturday, October 18th from 9:00 - 3:00 is the confirmed date for Open House in MA.  I do not know what town you live in but I can tell you that Corner Stone Lodge in Duxbury, MA will have a public Installation of Officers one hour after the open house.  You are more than welcome to come and see the installation ritual.  You can email me for any additional information.