All Things Masonic: I'm a Traveling Freemason

Sunday, January 19, 2025

I'm a Traveling Freemason

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I’m a traveling Freemason, and I think that you should considering becoming one too. As a Freemason we belong to a global community, and we have a unique opportunity to meet new Brothers and reconnect with old friends by just traveling across town or across the state, country or globe.

I will first tell you about some of my most recent travels before I explain the many benefits.

It was a pleasant January evening in Minnesota, with clear skies, clear roads and a full moon casting a glittering glow on the snow making the 51-mile drive to Faribault, Minnesota a pleasant experience just by itself.

By leaving my home bubble and by driving a few miles I can have a new experience by meeting people with different perspectives, experiences and occupations. By getting on a plane and traveling for a couple of hours, I can experience a whole new Masonic culture.

As I was driving that January night, I couldn’t help but reflect on the many places that Freemasonry has taken me. From Masonic Lodges in small rural towns, to beautiful Grand Lodges in bustling cities across the United States, and around the globe to England, Scotland, France, Israel and a few more.

For this night the Brothers from Star in the East #33-York Rite in Owatonna, Minnesota were hosting a social event at the Redemption restaurant. The restaurant is in an old warehouse in the historic part of Faribault and is known for its excellent smoked meats and dishes.

When I arrived at the venue, I was greeted by warm smiles and familiar handshakes, a reminder of the universal bond that Freemasonry has provided me over the years. It was good to see so many old faces and meet many new ones. The air was filled with a sense of brotherhood, and I couldn’t help but reflect on how profound this shared experience is, not just for me, but for every Mason who chooses to travel and engage with other members of the fraternity.

As the evening continued at the restaurant, I spoke with Brothers who had come from various places in the area. Some were longtime members of the Owatonna Lodge, so it was good to sit together and get caught up with our lives. One brother was visiting from Venezuela, so I got to practice my Spanish. Each brother has their own stories and experiences to share. The connections made over a great meal and good conversation are invaluable, and I found myself learning much from the Brothers around and their experiences as I hope they learned from me. This exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives is one of the greatest benefits of traveling within Freemasonry.

Beyond the personal connections, traveling and meeting other Freemason’s has also opened my eyes to the wide-reaching impact on our charitable work. When I visit a Lodge I always make a point to ask what charitable work that the Lodge is supporting. This evening one of the Lodge Brothers’ wives had recently passed away, and they were brainstorming ideas on how to help their Brother during this difficult time. I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the difference that Freemasonry makes a difference in communities across the globe. Whether it’s helping an impoverished community build a community vegetable garden, using the Lodge for a community Blood drive, providing help during a disaster, or supporting charities that help those in need, Freemasonry is a force for good that transcends borders. When you travel as a Freemason, you become a part of something much larger than yourself, and you see the tangible difference that Masonic philanthropy makes in the world.

One of the unique aspects of being a traveling Freemason is the opportunity to witness the diversity of Masonic traditions. Each Lodge has its own customs, yet all are bound by the same core principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth. It’s a fascinating experience to participate in a ritual or social event in a Lodge halfway across the world and notice the slight differences but still feel that deep sense of unity and purpose. In every Lodge, I am reminded of the universal truths that Freemasonry stands for and the common bonds that connect us all.

If you enjoy traveling and opportunities to connect with people from all walks of life, I highly recommend you become a traveling, Mason. Freemasonry offers a unique and rewarding experience, whether traveling across town, cross state lines or international borders. You always have a place to go, and a group of Brothers to connect with, and the opportunity to grow and learn while having an incredible journey.