The Grand Lodge of Illinois A. F. & A. M. is excited to announce Masonic Membership Visibility Day 2024! On Saturday, August 17, we celebrate being members of this most excellent fraternity with all regular Freemasons in Illinois. On this day, thousands of Brethren across the state will proudly display their affiliation with our ancient and honorable fraternity. 

Masonic Membership Visibility Day was created for our Brethren to visibly display their association with the fraternity and demonstrate the delight and profound respect we hold for our Masonic Membership Experience. Celebrated annually on the third Saturday in August, this day encourages us to proudly wear our Masonic Square and Compasses emblem on hats, shirts, or other clothing. By showing our appreciation for and commitment to Freemasonry, we hope to inspire Brethren and attract prospective members. It is a day to "Let Our Light Shine" and visibly show others who we are as Freemasons.

"My Brother, You Are Not Alone"

This year’s theme is "My Brother, You Are Not Alone." In recent years, loneliness has become a significant societal challenge, with research showing that many men experience feelings of isolation and a lack of meaningful connections, which can impact their mental and physical health.

Freemasonry provides a unique solution to the issue of loneliness through its strong sense of brotherhood, friendship, and community. Our fraternity offers a supportive network where men can form deep, lasting relationships based on shared values and mutual respect. By promoting fellowship, charitable activities, and personal growth, Freemasonry helps Brothers feel connected and valued.

Our theme highlights the powerful and valuable aspects of our Masonic Membership Experience. We aim to support current members and resonate with potential membership prospects by emphasizing the following key ideas:

• Bonds of Brotherhood: As a fraternity of good men, we create lasting bonds of friendship and support.

• Connected by Our Mystic Tie: Although invisible, this connection is unbreakable and enduring.

• Even When You Are by Yourself, You Are Not Alone: The fraternity provides a sense of belonging, community, and support.

• Brotherly Love Transcends Space and Time: Our commitment to each other goes beyond physical presence.

• United Across Illinois and Around the World: We are part of a global network of Brethren.

• Peace of Mind for Yourself and Family: Freemasonry offers security and support for members and their families.

• Genuine Friends – Trusted Companions Through Life: Our friendships are built on trust and mutual respect.

• When Life Happens, We Care – The Illinois Masonic Outreach Services (IMOS) charity allows Illinois Freemasons to fulfill their Masonic oath of helping a Brother, their spouse, widow, or orphans in times of necessity.

How Members Can Participate

If you would like to join us in this year’s celebration on August 17, we invite you to share the Masonic Membership Visibility Day flyer. This flyer is an excellent way to visibly display to other Brothers, family members, and friends the recognition and ownership we take as Freemasons.

We also ask that all members celebrate on the day by wearing clothing (e.g., t-shirts, polo shirts, hats, etc.) that prominently displays our Masonic Square and Compasses insignia as they enjoy their various activities. It is our collective way to be visible and "Let Our Light Shine" in our local communities statewide. 

Download the flyer here.

As you have conversations on Masonic Membership Visibility Day, either in-person or online, we encourage you to share how Freemasonry helped you combat loneliness and make genuine friends. On social media, you can share pictures of yourself and other Brethren alongside your personal experience related to the theme. We encourage you to begin your story with the 2024 theme: 

“My Brother, You Are Not Alone…”

If you share your story, then make sure you tag us @Illinois Freemasonry!

Most importantly, Masonic Membership Visibility Day is meant to be a day of fun and celebration! Saturday, August 17, 2024, is an opportunity for us all to demonstrate pride in our brotherhood, and we hope you will make the most of it.

If you want to share this year’s poster, then you can download it here.