About the fraternity

Masonry is the world's first and largest fraternal organization, and is based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to help make the world a better place. Through our culture of philanthropy, we make a profound difference for our brothers, our families, our communities, and our future.

Masonry is a brotherhood of like-minded men who genuinely care about each other. We develop lifelong friendships with fellow Masons and their families, and are welcomed at Masonic lodges throughout the United States and the world.

With more than 50,000 members in the state of California, Masonry represents the entire spectrum of diversity. Masons believe in the importance of religion; men of all faiths are members of the organization.

Membership in California Masonry is growing and getting younger. The fastest growing segment of our membership is 18-30 year olds. About 2,000 men are initiated each year; their average age is 39. 

The mission of the Masons of California, to foster personal growth and improve the lives of others, is carried out through Masonic principles and tradition. Through the study of our heritage and dedication to new and ongoing Masonic education, members understand and can apply the tenets of Freemasonry. 

Our mission is guided by the enduring and relevant principles of our fraternity:

• Brotherly love. We value respect, freedom, kindness, tolerance, and our differences - religious, ethnic, cultural, social, generational, and educational - and strive for harmony in our individual lives, in our lodges, and in the global community.
• Relief. We take responsibility for the well-being of our brothers, our families, and the community as a whole. We provide relief through philanthropy, community involvement, and delivery of excellent care.
• Truth. We stay true to our personal code of conduct and ethics - honor, integrity, personal responsibility, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.

What do Masons do?
Freemasonry is the world’s 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.

Masons are deeply involved in helping people. Their compassion for others manifests itself in many ways, from housing neglected and abused children to helping seniors remain independent. Masons contribute more than $1.4 million every day in the United States to aid individuals who are sick, aged, or destitute, or whose physical, emotional and psychological needs are not being met. The vast majority of Masonic philanthropies assist people who are not Masons.  Charity is at the heart of most Masonic activities. 

Charity

Masons were instrumental in establishing the public education system in the United States and have an ongoing commitment to public schools, and have enabled thousands of students to attend college with scholarships awarded annually by the California Masonic Foundation. The Foundation also supports nurse leader training in California and facilitates community partnerships between lodges and public school districts throughout the state.

The Masonic Homes of California have been committed to fraternal care for more than a century. Established in 1898, the Homes provide housing and health care to Masons and their wives or widows at campuses in Union City and Covina. Masonic Senior Outreach provides ongoing care management and financial support to help older members stay healthy and safe in their homes or in retirement facilities in their home communities. Masonic Family Outreach offers services and programs to California Masons and their families who need help dealing with today’s complex issues, such as the impact of divorce, the stresses of a special needs child, and other significant life challenges.

Mission:

The mission of Freemasonry in California is brotherhood, community involvement, and self-improvement through education, family values, moral standards, and charity. We invest in children, our neighborhoods, and our future. Our mission is guided by the enduring and relevant tenets of our fraternity: brotherly love, relief, and truth.

Vision:

Our vision is measured by member vitality, lodge prosperity, and the general awareness of Freemasonry throughout California