Illinois Freemasonry

Summer is for fellowship, fun, and travel — and Grand Master Joseph B. Ferrell will be on the move across the state for the next few months.

Wherever you find him, snap a selfie. And wherever you don't, bring him with you. We've linked a downloadable portrait of MWB Joe in the comments below. Send it to a local print shop, or print it at home, and the Grand Master can join your Lodge picnics, degree nights, and summer gatherings in spirit!

Tag our page and use the hashtag when you post, and we'll share the best ones.

One month from today, our nation marks 250 years.

For many of us, that milestone hits a little differently. The values that have carried this country through two and a half centuries — duty, courage, integrity, loyalty to something larger than yourself — are the same values that have carried our fraternity for just as long.

It's one of the reasons so many veterans and service members find their way to a Lodge. The structure feels familiar. The brotherhood feels familiar. And the commitment to live a life of honor doesn't end when the uniform comes off.

If you served and you've been looking for that sense of brotherhood again, you might find it here in Illinois Freemasonry.

Learn more:

How to Become a Freemason — Illinois Freemasonry Start your journey to becoming a Freemason, a part of our brotherhood, and the best version of yourself. Join Illinois Freemasonry.

Brothers, the clock is ticking.

June 30 is the last day to complete activities for the Grand Master's Award of Excellence — the recognition program that honors Illinois Lodges going above and beyond in growing membership, serving their communities, and living out the values of our fraternity.

Think your Lodge qualifies? Talk to your Worshipful Master before the Masonic year closes and learn more at the link in the comments.

Brothers, did you know that Jack Dempsey, one of the greatest heavyweight champions in boxing history, was a Freemason?

Known as "The Manassa Mauler," Brother Dempsey was as celebrated for his character outside the ring as he was for his ferocity inside it. His life reflected values our fraternity knows well: discipline, resilience, and integrity.

Learn more about Brother Dempsey's Masonic story at the link in the comments.

"Brother Armour has also been there anytime I have a question about something Masonic or anything else, helping me be a better man and a better Mason."

When the call went out for stories to share for Masonic Mentor Appreciation Day this month, Brother Steve Farrare thought of one man: Brother Jeffrey Armour.

From just calling to chat, attending cookouts, and even driving him to the hospital, Brother Armour is one he could count on.

Read his full story at the link in the comments.

Somewhere in Illinois tonight, a newly raised Master Mason is sitting on his couch with a book his mentor handed him after Lodge. He has questions he didn't get to ask and symbols he is still working to understand.

He is not the first Brother to feel that way. Masons have been writing for one another about exactly this experience for more than three hundred years.

On the blog, we share five essential titles that together offer a strong foundation in the Craft. Read them in any order. Read them slowly. And then keep reading.

Find the link in the comments.

On this Memorial Day, we pause to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to something greater than themselves reflect the highest ideals of humanity and the very values at the heart of our fraternity.

Today, we remember them with gratitude and with reverence.

Every child deserves support, stability, and a chance to thrive, and the Grand Lodge of Illinois A.F. & A.M. is committed to making that possible.

The Illinois Masonic Children's Assistance Program (IMCAP) provides critical resources and support to children and families in need across the state. It is one of the many ways our fraternity puts its values into action.

Learn more about IMCAP at the link in the comments.

"Eric Wilson has been much more than an Exemplar to me; he has been a steadfast guide, a vital mentor, and a loyal friend."

Throughout his entire Masonic journey, Brother Tyler McKelvey has had Brother Eric Wilson by his side. Not only did Brother Wilson stand by his side whenever he needed, but he also extended a helping hand to every Brother who has walked through their lodge doors.

Read their full story:

Masonic Mentor Appreciation Day 2026: My Masonic Exemplar — Illinois Freemasonry Illinois Masons honor their mentors on Masonic Mentor Appreciation Day 2026 with personal tributes from four Brothers.

There is still time for your Lodge to earn recognition before June 30!

The Grand Master's Award of Excellence celebrates Lodges across Illinois that are going above and beyond by growing membership, giving back to their communities, and living out the values of our fraternity. Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels are available.

Talk to your Worshipful Master about where your Lodge stands and what it takes to qualify. Find the link in the comments to learn more.