Our Values:
Freemasonry is a Fraternal Order..
Membership in this Brotherhood is as old as time in memorial, steeped in historical mystic and ancient traditions as a rite of passage. In Most Jurisdiction within the United States of America, it is restricted to Men. However, there is an adopted rite affiliated with Freemasonry for Women known as the Order Of Eastern Stars (O.E.S.). As in most fraternal organizations, there is an initiation process that inducts its Candidates and Neophytes into the fold. However, there is no pledging as is found in some college fraternities and sororities to join. Your membership is earned through acts of service, charity, and demonstrated learning. The Masonic Order is a serious group that holds true to its ancient teachings and philosophies. It exists to fulfill and live up to its Moto..."To take Good Men in its fold, to help them to become Better Men." Thus, it is not a reform society or church; you must come to this Organization initially as a Good Man endowed with attributes that can benefit it as much as you can benefit from its Beautiful System of Morality, Veiled in Allegory, Illustrated by Symbols. It does not exist to reform criminals or people who would seek to join its ranks to use their membership for some self serving ill-gotten-gain, nor would such persons benefit from its teachings... It is also important to note that Freemasonry is not a Political group, Church, or Religious Cult seeking to change ones belief system...But we do require that you believe in a Higher Power or God and in life after death. This makes us all accountable for our actions, interactions, and behaviors while we are alive. Masons believe in the Universal Brotherhood of Man and the Universal Fatherhood of God, whom we refer to as "The Grand Architect of the Universe" (G.A.O.T.U.).
History of Freemasonry:
Through out the annals of time in memorial our organization has been Variously known by many names, before and after antediluvial time (B.C.E.)...
However in the Common Area (A.D.) our August Organization is usually referred to as Freemasonry, Masonry, or The Craft. Much of the details regarding the beginnings of our fraternity are lost to history and time. Although Operative Masonry is believed to be the oldest surviving fraternal organization in the world, the exact date of its founding is uncertain, but we know the builders of temples and alters date back to the Adamic period. A point in time associated with the early human experience and the establishment of human civilization. This period is characterized by the development of agriculture, family structures, and societal norms where harmony was the strength of most societies, most especially ours. Modern Freemasonry can, however, be easily traced to sixteenth century Scotland; although the first Masonic governing body was not founded until 1717 in London, England. The Oldest Masonic document, the Regius poem, dates to around 1390 A.D. We know of no Speculative Masonry prior to that date. Somewhere between 1390 and 1717 lodges of operative masons began to accept as members, men who did not work in the building trade. Eventually whole lodges composed of such persons arose, leading to a transition from lodges being composed of stone masons to lodges being composed of men from other occupations who gathered and shared a ritual replete with allusions to carpentry, architecture, and stone masonry.
Modern Freemasonry
In 1717, four of these lodges in England met and formed the first Grand Lodge of England. A Grand Lodge is a Masonic body having jurisdiction over the lodges within a certain geographical area or jurisdiction. Each Nation, Country, or State has its own Grand Lodge; to include the District of Columbia (D.C.), it too has its own Grand Lodge and is the Holy See of our Masonic Order.
Symbolic, Craft, or Blue Lodge Masonry has three degrees. The three degrees are, in order: Entered Apprentice (EA), Fellow Craft (FC), and Master Mason (MM). In early Speculative Masonry there was only one degree. Later a two-degree system developed and finally the three-degree system of today evolved and was firmly in place by around 1760 A.D.
A “Degree” is a drama in which a newcomer to Masonry, the candidate, is made to play a key part. These dramas have several characteristics and are progressive in nature, that is, they build on each other. These dramas are enacted with only Masons being present and are for the purpose of moral instruction and enlightenment of the Oneness with God and Man. A unique characteristic of each Masonic degree is an "Obligation” taken by the candidate. The obligation is an oath taken for the purpose of instructing the candidate in his Masonic duty.
The three degrees have a biblical basis. Much biblical imagery and historical background are used in the ritual of the degrees; yet it is not a religion or does it try to impress upon the Candidate to take on a particular religion or religious belief system of dogma. The central biblical image used in Masonic ritual is that of the building of King Solomon’s Temple, as meticulously described for us in the Old Testament books of I Kings and
II Chronicles. Whenever a Masonic lodge is in session, the Holy Bible is open upon the lodge’s altar to remind us of whom we place our trust.
Masonry does not require of its adherents to expound upon the particulars of his understanding of Thee G.A.O.T.U., but we do offer opportunities to spiritually and philosophically grow and learn of others beliefs to foster a better understanding of humanity and religious tolerance. This approach promote harmony and coexistence among diverse beliefs taken by masons all over the globe. There is some memory work the candidate must learn after each degree is conferred upon him. He has a set amount of time to learn the catechism, that is, a set of questions and answers, and to recite them before the lodge members at a lodge meeting to show suitable proficiency in the preceding degrees before proceeding to be being passed or raised to the next degree.
As stated earlier, Masonry is Not a religion. There is nothing in Freemasonry to interfere with a man’s religious life. Persons of all faiths and denominations are a part of the worldwide Masonic fraternity. Religion and politics are two subjects not allowed to be discussed when a lodge is in session. Masonry teaches the importance of tolerance and commonality within the human experience. We also stress the importance of helping the less fortunate with a moto of "Charity is a gift that keeps giving beyond the grave." It especially stresses care for the Widows and Orphans of Masons. Indeed, most Grand Lodges have within their jurisdiction a means to provide access to services that can provide a home for aged Masons, their wives and widows, and also a home and care for Masonic orphans.
It is Important to Note:
No Mason is supposed to ask another Person or Candidate to become a Mason. It is up to the individual man who has an interest in becoming a Mason to Ask a Mason he knows for a petition to join the fraternity.... Our Moto is, " ASK 1...2 BE 1." We firmly believe in Masonry that everything you decide to do should Always be of
"Your Own Freewill and Accord."
The General Grand Masonic Congress stands as a beacon of Masonic tradition and fraternal fellowship throughout the United States of America. Our organization represents the highest ideals of Ancient Free and Accepted Masonry, dedicated to the moral and spiritual development of our members and the betterment of society.
Founded upon the timeless principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth, we bring together Master Masons from across the nation in pursuit of light and knowledge. Our Congress serves as a unified voice for Masonic excellence, promoting the ancient craft while embracing the responsibilities of modern citizenship.
Through our commitment to charity, education, and moral uprightness, we continue the noble work of our predecessors, building better men and stronger communities. We are devoted to the perpetuation of Masonic values and the advancement of human dignity.
About Us:
What Is Freemasonry?
Most Excellent Grand High Priest
Most Excellent High Priest
Michael Bryant 33
He is dedicated to teaching and anointing Companions in the Royal Arch. He has tasked his Officers with ensuring its members have rituals that are representative of the True teachings and traditions of the craft that are representative of our Jurisdiction from the 4th to the 7th degree of York Rite Masonry.
Most Eminent Grand Master
Sir Knight Mark D. Williams 33
He is the Emanant Commander of the Knight Templars Order. He has taken the knights to a new level by putting them on display with military competitions and displays of the Arch of Steal at Ceremonies, funerals, and Events.
Sovereign Grand Commander
President General Emeritus
Most Puisant Inspector General Ollie Spencer Sr. 33/98
He is the Past Emeritus President General and the current leader over the Consistory Inspector Generals and Prince of the Royal Secret and Lodge of Perfection all operating under the United Supreme Council (U.S.C.) Southern & Western Jurisdiction (A.A.S.R.)
Imperial Potentate
Noble Reggie Hunter 33
He is the Potentate over the Imperial Council of the Ancient Arabic Order of Nobels of the Mystic Shrine (A.A.O.N.M.S.) and the Leader of one of the most philanthropic Order in the U.S.A.
President General
ILL. Michael Billingslea 33
He is dedicated to the service, growth, and advancement of our historic organization. Leading us into the 21st Century of the Masonic Order, our President General has implemented Leadership Workshops, Charities, Improved Visibility, and Communications
Our Leadership
Supreme Grand Matron
Worthy Supreme Grand Matron Sister Betty Davis
She is the Leader of the Order of Eastern Star (O.E.S.) & the Matriarch of our Organization that aids and assist the President General
What We Stand For...
Masonic Secrets:
Masonry asks its Candidates and Members not to tell the details of its ritual to non-Masons. This is not because Masonry is ashamed of anything or is doing something illegal or nefarious. It is because an element of secrecy serves to heighten interest in Masonic teaching; it is the catalyst that propels neophytes to seek more Light in masonry. It is also because most people would not benefit from being introduced to Masonic teachings outside of the context of the Masonic degree system. Would you share the secrete of your pin number to your bank account with the public? Why not? Then why should Masons be obligated to share those secrets dear to them with the public? (Matthew 7:6-12)
Why do Masons keep their rituals a secret? For the same reason that the ancient stonemasons kept their trade secrets. Their secrecy helped to maintain a better quality of work so that it did not get corrupted or altered, later to be susceptible to losing its true meaning over time. Our secrecy today helps us to better serve and trust those good men that we are helping to make better. It is difficult to believe that the secrets of Masonry should equate to something evil when you consider the heritage of Masonry that includes a long list of influential Noble leaders such as:
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Thurgood Marshall: The first African American Supreme Court Justice and civil rights lawyer who successfully argued the Brown v. Board of Education case.
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Booker T. Washington: One of the most prominent Black educators, authors, and leaders of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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Prince Hall: The father of Black Freemasonry in the United States. An abolitionist and leatherworker, he founded African Lodge No. 459 (now the Prince Hall Grand Lodge) in Boston in 1775.
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Duke Ellington: Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington was a legendary jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader. His lifelong work profoundly impacted American music.
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Shaquille O'Neal: An NBA legend, businessman, and dedicated philanthropist who was made a Mason in 2011.
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Richard Pryor: A groundbreaking, highly influential comedian, actor, and writer.
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John Lewis: A revered U.S. Congressman and pivotal civil rights leader. He was made a Mason in Atlanta in 1999.
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Benito Juárez: A fierce defender of Mexican independence and the first Indigenous (Zapotec) president of Mexico.
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Simón Bolívar: Known as "El Libertador," this Venezuelan general and statesman liberated multiple South American countries from Spanish rule.
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Martin Luther King Sr (1900-84) – was a member of the 23rd lodge in Atlanta, Georgia
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Medgar Evers, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) activist who was assassinated in 1963, was a 32nd-degree freemason in Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction.
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Nelson Mandela (1991) just to name a few.
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Rev. Jesse Jackson
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Ill. John G. Jones 33rd Chicago, IL
Masonry is NOT evil because it keeps its secrets... This is apparent when you see so many Masons working as a vital part of every community to provide better churches, better schools and better governments. It is difficult to look into the eyes of a little child in a Shriners Hospital and say the secrets of Masonry are evil. If we really believe the biblical teaching, “by their fruits ye shall know them” then we must believe that the secrets of Masonry really do help to make a good man better knowing that "a house divided surely will fall".
The influence of Masonry is like the influence of the home and the influence of the church. It does not produce perfect human beings. Despite the best efforts of the home there has never been a perfect child. Despite the best efforts of the church there has never been a perfect Christian, Muslim, or Hebrew. Despite the best efforts of Masonry there has never been a perfect Mason. Nevertheless, there is a place for all these in our society to work toward the goal of perfection. Man’s basic nature is such that he needs every good influence he can get. He needs the powerful influence of a good home. He needs powerful influence of a dedicated religious institution made up of True believers. He needs the influence of dedicated teachers in the schools. But, when it is all said and done, it doesn’t hurt to have a little extra push that comes from civic organizations, from professional organizations, and from fraternal organizations. Masonry has a proud heritage of over 635 years of service as a civic organization to the Modern World, and we hope this discussion has helped you come to a better understanding of the purpose of our fraternal organization. Masonry now looks to the future with the hope that a better understanding will allow the lodge to take its rightful place in every Community, right alongside the Church, the Synagogue, and the Mosque; right along with homes, schools, civic centers, and organizations as a positive force for good. With this better understanding there is every reason to believe that we can all work together to make our world even stronger than yesterday. The history of America proves that this Great Experiment taken on by our Founding Fathers, that were also Masons, to Establish a New World was built on the Strength of Masonic principals embedded in our Bill of Rights and Constitution. They all work for the good of the Order to contribute valuable service to empower its people to truly be Free.
Reflecting on the vision of esteemed Masonic pioneers like The Hon. John G. Jones, H. C. Scott, N. F. Henry, and W. T. Grant, alongside a global network of 50,000 members and high-ranking brothers from the Republic of Romania, we recognize a legacy defined by perseverance. The historical discourse regarding the legitimacy and regularity of '3-letter' versus '4-letter' Masons was conclusively resolved over a century ago. We owe profound gratitude to the legal expertise of William A. Allison and Charles Kergwin, who successfully blazed a trail for a recognized future, ensuring that the legitimacy of our 4-letter Scottish Rite lineage never requires further defense. Our standing as Regular and Recognized Masons internationally—spanning the U.S. and Canada—is backed by historical warrants, affidavits, and an definitive ruling by the Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. (No. 2007), dated February 1, 1910. This landmark victory remains accessible for public record.
To provide total clarity, we proudly display the reissued Original Warrant from the 1880 Romanian National Grand Lodge, presented in 1896 to honor the enduring bond between our Masonic bodies. Historical archives confirm this through a Decree of Recognition presented to the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C., A. F. & A. M., Ill. Ollie Spencer Sr. 33rd, 98th degree, on June 16, 2017. As the past Emeritus President General of the General Grand Masonic Congress, he accepted this document which affirms: 'The Honorable H. C. Scott was the sole representative for Colored Brothers in 1896 to receive the Romanian Warrant for American operations.' This historic act establishes the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. in Washington, D.C. as the Mother Grand Lodge and Holy See for all affiliated bodies under this constitution.
This Warrant, combined with the 1910 appellate court success, grants us full authority to operate as a registered and regular Masonic body in the United States. In accordance with the requirement that three Grand Lodges form a sovereign body, the 1910 case also verified the standing of two other specific bodies: M. W. St. John Grand Lodge of IL (led by Ill. John G. Jones 33rd) and M. W. St. Andrews Grand Lodge of LA (led by Ill. 33rd). Together, these organizations successfully overturned false allegations of irregularity brought forward by the M. W. Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C. in 1910. Following this victory, this coalition of Grand Lodges continued to flourish, recognizing one another as vital members of the national assembly reorganized in 1896 as the General Grand Masonic Congress (G.G.M.C.).