Our Illinois Masonic Awareness Ashlars in Practice

In Illinois Freemasonry, we are always looking for men of fine character to join our brotherhood. One way we do so is through our Illinois Masonic Awareness Ashlars – three tactics lodges across the state have used to attract good men to our fraternity. Those are:

1.        Be Visible

2.        Tell Our Story

3.        Inspire Pride and Respect

These three things will help us expand our fraternity and connect with good men who would make an invaluable addition to our Brotherhood, and this past month, we heard from Lodges across the state about putting these tactics into action.

Keep reading to learn how!

Ashlar #1: Be Visible

Since 2018, Cary-Grove Lodge No. 1157 has organized a car show on the Sunday before Memorial Day.  Soon entering the 7th year, the car show has continued to grow annually.  On average, the show features 250 cars and draws crowds of around 500-800 additional spectators. 

Cary-Grove Lodge promotes the show throughout the Masonic community, with help from the entire 3rd Northern District - the Widows Sons attend the show along with the Shriners Aviator Club, who sell raffle tickets at the event. 

The Cary-Grove Car Show

In collaboration with Nunda Lodge No. 190, the two Lodges had professional banners printed to advertise the shows. Additionally, the show features professional and local DJ Rudy K, a live performance of the national anthem by the McHenry Middle Choir, and even more special guests!

Along with professional banners, the show is advertised on social media, newspapers, radio, and printed flyers – reaching thousands annually.  The funds raised are used to support Cary-Grove’s College Scholarship Program, and portions are donated to various charities.

Ashlar #2: Tell Our Story

Since 1849, Scott Lodge No. 79 has been telling the story of Illinois Freemasonry through their actions in the Carlyle community. Currently, they offer three $1000 scholarships to high school seniors and support the Caring4Carlyle food program, which sends home food bags to the unfortunate students of the Carlye School District. Last year, they also participated in the Bikes for Books Program offered through the Grand Lodge of Illinois A. F. & A. M. For these reasons, they’ve had members ask to be reinstated, saying that these actions are what Masons are supposed to be doing.

Scott Lodge Brothers and their family

Another example of their charitable actions?  When a Scott Lodge Brother suffered a stroke and was in the nursing home, his Lodge Brothers built a handicap ramp, making his home accessible for his return.

Ashlar #3: Inspire Pride and Respect

St. Paul’s Lodge No. 500 inspires pride and respect through constant activity in the lodge. Using the Grand Master’s Award of Excellence Program as a roadmap for the year, events are planned and conducted, including numerous educational programs, special dinners, officer and member training sessions, charitable outreach, a robust degree schedule (with over 30 degrees completed in the last year), and more.

St. Paul’s Lodge Brothers

This wide array of options allows each Brother to find activities that match personal interests, inspiring efforts that “go the extra mile”.  These efforts are further reflected through a focus on proper Masonic etiquette, professional attire at meetings and events, mentorship for new members, and recognition of time and labor provided by the members.  All these items are components of a formula that will ensure the lodge remains strong well into the future.

How has your Lodge exemplified these three Illinois Masonic Awareness Ashlars? Submit your story here!