Grand Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio

Today’s Mason Monday is Bro. Josh Nickles from Cedar Lodge #430. Bro. Nickles is a customer service manager, firefighter, Corvette-enthusiast, father, and proud Freemason. What does the Grand Master's Theme (Be Legendary) mean to you? “I joined Freemasonry because of my family’s rich history with it, there’s over 150 years of Masons in my family. It’s always been a big part of who we are, shaping our values and leaving a positive impact through the generations. Joining felt like a natural way to carry on that legacy while also building something meaningful for myself. The Grand Master’s theme this year of “Be Legendary” really hits home for me. It’s a reminder that we’re not just preserving traditions but also leaving a mark that inspires others. As a firefighter, I’ve always appreciated the focus on service and teamwork, and Freemasonry feels like an extension of those same principles.” Join us in congratulating Bro. Nickels for his great achievements in our comment section!

Freemasonry has long been a fraternity that values education and self-improvement. To support the next generation of leaders, the Grand Lodge of Ohio Charitable Foundation offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors across Ohio’s 25 Masonic districts. Applicants do not need to be related to a Freemason to be considered. If you're a parent with an eligible student, the deadline to apply for the 2025 scholarship is March 1, 2025. Don’t wait, download the application here: bit.ly/3YnuxdZ

“The Scottish Rite is an appendant body of Freemasonry that provides a Master Mason the opportunity to seek more light, or knowledge in Masonry as he continues his masonic journey. Here, a Master Mason builds upon the teachings of his Symbolic Lodge through our system of 29 “degrees”.” We recently sat down with Bro. Dick Heldman, a man with many Masonic titles, but most relevant to this interview, he currently serves as the Deputy for the State of Ohio, representing our Supreme Council. We discussed Bro. Heldman’s journey through Freemasonry and he shared a few words of encouragement for Master Masons in Ohio looking to advance their knowledge of Freemasonry. https://bit.ly/3AGS5TP

Grand View is more than just a member portal — it’s your gateway to expanding your Masonic knowledge. Dive into educational resources that help deepen your understanding of the degrees and broaden your perspective on Freemasonry. With Grand View, you can also pay dues, find lodge events, connect with Brothers, and stay updated with the latest from the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Explore the platform here: bit.ly/3rpOS5W

Do you know a man who should be featured in our #MasonMonday series? If you want to nominate a fellow Mason, email Bro. Jim Hieb at [email protected] and explain who they are, what lodge they belong to, and why you’re nominating them.

Last month during our Annual Communication we elected Grand Lodge Officer Bill Carter as the 169th Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ohio Masons. In Part 1 of our interview series with Brother Carter we discuss his excitement for the upcoming Masonic year, his goals, and how he hopes to positively impact our Craft. Read our full interview: https://bit.ly/4fncpZu

Just a few weeks ago, MWB Carter was elected to serve as the 169th Grand Master of Ohio Masons. In his Letter from the Grand Master, he shares his hopes and goals for this Masonic year and expresses gratitude for the men who make up our great fraternity. Take a few minutes today to read his entire message to Ohio Masonry: https://bit.ly/3iJJJRJ

Most Worshipful Brother Bill Carter and First Lady Zoe Carter have made it a priority this year to support Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation. Not only are they asking our members to provide financial support to this group, but they’re also encouraging active Masons to reflect on the impact this foundation has had on their communities. Together, we can ensure Ohio’s Masons are cared for throughout their life. Find out more about how you can help here: https://bit.ly/3tLJTOf

Honoring the Legends Among Us! #BeLegendary #VeteransDay

Today’s Mason Monday is Bro. Chuck Johnson from John W. Barkley Lodge #621. Bro. Johnson is a chef, papou, musician, and proud Freemason. What does the Grand Master's theme mean to you? “MWB Carter's theme of "Be Legendary" combined with his Grand Master's rollout, excites me as a Mason in Ohio. We are truly blessed by so many of our brethren who serve the Grand Lodge, in our district and around the state, who are energized to reinvigorate this fraternity and increase its relevance for not only our current members, but to provide real value to future men who will knock on our door. The Blue Lodge experience is integral to, not only the success, but the survival of this fraternity we hold so dear. The only way we will not just survive but thrive is to "Be Legendary!" and provide amazing education and experiences to our members.” What are you doing to “Be Legendary” this year?