Massachusetts Grand Master Warns About Bogus Masonic Recruitment

[My Freemasonry]

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by Christopher Hodapp



Back in June, MW George Hamilton, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts AF&AM, issued a warning about the recruiting activities of a lodge claiming to be part of a bogus organization calling itself 'The Grand Lodge of the USA.'

According to the letter, this group seems to be specifically targeting Brazilian immigrants in the U.S. and charging an exorbitant fee for joining them. (Click image above to enlarge)

From the letter:

"It is reported that these representatives are contacting local members of the community and hosting coffee gatherings and meetings at hotels or restaurants. Their pitch includes an official-looking application complete with an employer identification number to a lodge that cannot be verified.

"The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts can confirm that the Grand Lodge of the USA does not exist and is encouraging you to warn anyone who may be targeted to do their due diligence and to stay clear of this association."​

I realize I'm late in discovering this letter, but it's important to alert Masons and non-Masons alike when these types of moneymaking schemes pretend to be part of the authentic world-wide fraternity. If you have an interest in joining the Freemasons in the U.S., there are only two organizations in every state that can claim legitimacy, that are male-only and generally permit inver-visitation with lodges all over the world: a state "Grand Lodge of (*your state here*) F&AM (or AF&AM)", usually founded around the time your state was admitted into the Union; and the historically black "Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of (*your state here*) F&AM" – often adding PHA (for Prince Hall Affiliated) in its documentation.

If you have a serious interest in joining, seek out the websites for those two groups in your state, or visit the website BeAMason.org, which is sponsored by the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite - Northern Jurisdiction. The contact forms at that site will be forwarded to the appropriate grand lodge in your area.

For a longer explanation of bogus, illegitimate, or what we call clandestine Masonic groups, have a look at Addressing Clandestine Freemasonry: Why It's Important.

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[Glen Cook]

As a note, the PHA GLs in Florida and Mississippi are Union and Stringer, respectively.