It helps a good man become a better man, a better father, husband, brother or son. Many men prominent in local, national and world affairs are Masons. From the earliest records individual and collective charity has been an essential characteristic of the Fraternity. In addition to the many charities of the individual member and Lodges, every Grand Lodge has large scale charity establishments. In Washington, through their Grand Lodge, Masons support the Masonic Retirement Center.
Masonic charity is more than giving money for some needy or worthwhile project.
It is the giving of your time, your talent, your fellowship, your understanding, your praise for anyone whose needs comes to our attention in our daily lives. There is no higher degree in Masonry than that of Master Mason. There is considerable confusion in the minds of many due to the fact that the York Rite and Scottish Rite have additional Degrees. A Master Mason may petition either or both for membership, after which he is eligible to petition the Shrine. The degrees given in these Rites elaborate the Masonic teachings.