A Little Background
Charity is at the heart of most Masonic activities. Each year, California Masons donate millions of dollars to both small and large philanthropic causes. This strong commitment to public education is exemplified by the California Masonic Foundation, which offers an innovative outreach program for educators and a generous scholarship program for approximately 100 high school students each year.
Another result of the Masons’ spirit and brotherhood is the Masonic Homes of California. Established in 1898 to help Masons affected by the cholera epidemic, the Masonic Home at Union City and Covina provide housing and health care to Masons and their wives or widows.
Originally a refuge for orphaned children called the Masonic Home for Children, the renamed Masonic Home at Covina today offers care and assistance for children who suffer from neglect or abuse. Since 1899, more than 1,800 children have thrived in this caring and compassionate environment which is open to all deserving children. In 1990, the Masonic Home at Covina added separate apartments to provide independent and assisted-living care for senior Masons and their
wives or widows. It is important to note that Masonic charities receive no local, state or federal funding and are supported entirely by member contributions.
Our fraternity has a wonderful history, which dates back more than three centuries. It is one of the world's oldest secular fraternities, a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Founded on the three great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, it aims to bring together men of goodwill, regardless of background and differences.
There are approximately 5 million Masons worldwide, including 2 million in the United States. The Grand Lodge of California has nearly 90,000 members and about 400 lodges throughout the state.
People might think that to become a Freemason is quite difficult. It's actually straightforward. Membership in the Masons is open to men 18 or older who believe in a Supreme Being and meet the qualifications and standards of character and reputation. One of Freemasonry’s customs is not to solicit members; men must seek membership on their own.
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