Im just saying, they apparently feel the need to put it in several places in the law book...
Art. 38. (38). Lodges Appearing in Public. The Grand Master may grant dispensations to Lodges to appear in public for any proper Masonic purpose including, but not limited to fundraising activities, which funds are to be used exclusively for any purpose consistent with the principles and purposes of Masonry, or the Laws of this Grand Lodge; but no dispensation shall be granted to Lodges to appear in public at any function except one of noncontroversial, nonpartisan, nonsectarian, patriot and/or community character. (Revised 1989)
Art. 240. (278) Appearing in Public. No Lodge shall appear in a public procession or make any public display as a Masonic body except to bury a Brother or to celebrate the anniversaries of Saints John, unless by dispensation from the Grand Master as provided and limited by Title 1, Chapter 7, Article 38 in which latter event the proceedings must be reported to the Grand Master as soon as possible thereafter. The Grand Master may designate the presiding officer in such dispensation. The Grand Master may grant a dispensation for a Lodge to have a float in a parade, or to participate in special historical occasions if the Grand Master shall determine that such occasion is of proper historical significance and that Lodge participation will result in a definite enhancement of the public image of Freemasonry.
Notes on Decisions:
Dispensations have been refused to Lodges or Masons as such, either individually or in groups to appear at or participate in the following gatherings:
(a) Divine Services.
(b) March in Loyalty Parade.
(c) Act as escort in Commandery Easter Services.
(d) Attend Odd Fellows Anniversary.
(e) Funeral not conducted by a Lodge.
(f) Attend a Fair.
I can only think of a few reasons why...