Today we’d like to introduce you to Pineland Lodge No. 86.
Hi Pineland, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Pineland Lodge No. 86 was chartered in 1878 and is part of a proud history of 300+ years of Freemasonry.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We face two major challenges. First is a decline in membership. Freemasonry has seen a decline in membership, similar to other fraternal and voluntary associations. The central challenge may reside in the traditional Masonic experience and the expectations of a modern, fast-paced world that has less time for regular, structured meetings and fellowship.
The second challenge is Public Perception and Conspiracy Theories. Freemasonry has a stigma of being a “secret society”. We prefer an “organization with secrets”. Despite efforts toward greater transparency, there are lingering suspicions of a large, oath-bound fraternity even if those secrets are only concealing our rituals and modes of recognition. This unjust negative public perception is often amplified in the digital age, where antagonistic, sensational content about “clandestine groups” spreads faster than transparent Masonic information, leading to an unfair portrayal of the fraternity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Freemasonry is fundamentally a fraternal, self-improvement, and charitable organization that provides a place for men of good character to further improve themselves. It is described as a “beautiful system or morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols”. Freemasonry focuses on personal development through moral teachings, fellowship, and mentoring. Our organization is guided by three great principles: Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. This is often expanded to core values like Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service.
Our core activities take place in a Lodge, which is the basic organizational unit. There are typically two kinds of meetings. The first is Ceremonial/Ritual. These involve conferring three progressive degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason) to make a man a Mason. These ceremonies use the tools and symbols of the ancient stonemasons’ craft as allegories to teach moral, intellectual, and spiritual lessons. This is where the “secret” part of Freemasonry lies; in the ritual work. The second type of meeting is for Lodge Business. This includes administrative & operational work, planning events, and organizing charitable efforts.
Freemasonry is widely known for several aspects, both historical and contemporary. Historically in the United States, several of our Founding Fathers were Freemasons and signed the Declaration of Independence and The Constitution as well as several Masons serving as President. Modern Masons are primarily known for their extensive philanthropic and charitable work. This includes local community service, fundraising for causes, and large-scale charities (e.g., the Shriners’ Hospitals for Children).
What matters most to you? Why?
Making Good Men Better. A Freemason strives for personal growth so that he can better fulfill his “duty to God, his neighbor, his family, and himself”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pineland86.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinelandlodge86
- Other: https://www.beafreemason.org
