News

All the latest Masonic news from the Grand Lodge of California.

Explanation of the symbols of Masonry. From the square and compass and the dollar bill pyramid to the trowel, learn all about the many emblems of Freemasonry.

Freemasonry Symbols

Maybe you’ve heard rumors about the “Freemason pyramid” on the dollar bill, seen the square and compass logo on buildings around town, or wondered about the meaning of emblems like the Masonic trowel. What’s the history behind Masonic symbols, and how do they factor into what happens in a lodge?

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CMMT Excel Awards

The San Diego Padres, in partnership with the Masons of California, announced the expansion of the Johnny Ritchey Scholarship Program on what would have been the 100th birthday for the “Jackie Robinson of the West Coast.”

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Master and Wardens Scavenger Hunt

At the 2024 Master and Wardens Leadership Retreats, attendees were asked to share their experience via social media throughout the weekend. Thanks to all of those who participated, and have fun reading the posts!

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In the Masons of California's 2022 Fraternity Report, review the highlights of the past year, from a sharp rise in new members to a full-scale renovation at the Masonic Homes.

2022 Fraternity Report

In the Masons of California’s 2022 Fraternity Report, review the highlights of the past year, from a sharp rise in new members to a full-scale renovation at the Masonic Homes.

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Portrait of a female Freemason. Women's Freemasonry, mixed Masonry, and coed Masonry have a long and distinguished history in California, the United States, and especially in Europe and Latin America. In addition, Masonic orders like the Order of the Eastern Star also serve women in Masonry.

Female Freemasons

Because Freemasonry was originally founded as an organization for men, there are naturally lots of questions about how women fit into it, including if and how a woman can become a Mason. In fact, female Freemasons appear in the fraternity’s history from its earliest, operative days—and even in its symbols. Today, many lodges around the world continue to accept both men and women, or women only.

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Explaining the ranks of Masonry, from entered apprentice to Master Mason to 33rd degree Mason.

Masonic Ranks

The craft lodges where Masons begin their journey through Freemasonry have three ranks, or degrees. Once they’ve completed those, they’re able to pursue further degrees through “appendant” Masonic bodies that offer even more ranks beyond that. What does it all add up to? Is there a system to putting Masonic ranks in order—and if so, what’s at the top?

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