The Masonic Orator

05/14/2026

After a long period of development and refinement, I am pleased to introduce the new official seal of The Masonic Orator.

The seal was designed to reflect the purpose behind the page and the work it represents: education, research, historical preservation, philosophy, brotherhood, character, and service.

Its symbolism brings together the written word, the working tools of the Craft, scholarship, and the pursuit of Masonic light through study and understanding.

While The Masonic Orator often discusses symbolism, history, and philosophy, the deeper goal has always been simple: to encourage thoughtful discussion, accurate information, and a greater understanding of Freemasonry for both Masons and non-Masons alike.

I appreciate all of those who continue to follow, share, discuss, and support the page.

~ The Masonic Orator

05/12/2026

I have received a large number of requests asking permission to use the educational images and graphics I post for Lodge education, PowerPoint presentations, pages, and other social media or educational purposes.

I am happy to allow any Regular and Recognized Masonic Lodge, Masonic organization, or individual to use these materials, provided they are used factually, respectfully, and in proper context.

My only requirement is that the credit:

~ The Masonic Orator

remains attached and sourced items are not removed, altered, or misused.

Please also be advised that many of the higher-quality or 3D-style graphics may trigger “AI-generated” labels on social media platforms. These images are created in a variety of ways. In many cases, AI tools are simply used to clean up, enhance, or stylize original compositions into higher-quality visual formats.

This permission applies not only to current images already posted, but also to future educational graphics and materials shared through The Masonic Orator.

If using written scripts, educational excerpts, books, research projects, or other sourced material, citations may be listed as:

“The Masonic Orator, 2026” or “Mason Oratus, 2026”

as appropriate to the context and usage.

~ The Masonic Orator

05/12/2026

Illinois Odd Fellow Rebekah Picnic
Saturday June 6th, 10am-2pm rain or shine
At the Odd Fellow Rebekah Home in Mattoon.

05/12/2026

How to become a Freemason

For the many who have been asking about joining and becoming a Mason… it is actually much easier than most people realize.

In general, one only has to contact or visit a local Masonic Lodge and request information about joining.
Freemasonry has traditionally believed that a man should come of his own free will and accord, which is why Masons do not actively recruit members.

That is where the phrase: “2B1 Ask1” comes from.

However, it is also important to ensure the Lodge is a Regular and Recognized Masonic Lodge operating under the recognized Grand Lodge of its State or Jurisdiction.

Unfortunately, there are many groups and organizations that claim to be “Freemasons” while not being Recognized within Regular Freemasonry.

Because of this, it is always wise to verify legitimacy through the official Grand Lodge of your area. If there is concern, will help if possible.

Freemasonry is not a secret society in the way many imagine, but actually are a Private Fraternity.
Lodges openly exist in communities across the world, and most are happy to answer respectful questions from good men seeking more information, knowledge, fellowship, charity, and personal growth.

If you have been curious about Masonry… sometimes the first step is simply asking.

~ The Masonic Orator

05/11/2026

Happy Mothers Day. Hope you all are having a great day. This is a pic of my parents, me and my sister.

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day !

Today, we honor the women who shaped us long before the world ever knew our names.

To the mothers who sacrificed quietly… who carried burdens no one else saw… who stayed strong when life demanded everything from them… thank you.

To the mothers raising children with love, discipline, compassion, and integrity: your work matters more than words can express.

To the mothers working long hours, holding families together, comforting pain, guiding with wisdom, and loving unconditionally, you are the foundation many lives are built upon.

And today is also for:
• the grandmothers who became mothers again
• the stepmothers who chose love
• the adoptive mothers who opened their hearts
• the mothers who have lost children
• the children who have lost mothers
• and the women whose care, guidance, and sacrifice helped shape lives without ever asking for recognition

A good mother leaves a mark on the soul that time never removes.
No title, achievement, wealth, or success a man reaches in life can erase the importance of the woman who first taught him kindness, strength, compassion, and perseverance.

Happy Mother’s Day to every mother and mother figure.

May you know how deeply valued, respected, and appreciated you truly are.

~ The Masonic Orator

05/08/2026

05/08/2026

Perspective Shapes the Man

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Life gives every man hardship, obstacles, and moments that test his patience and character.

The question is not whether difficulties exist.
They always will.

The question is what we choose to focus on.

One man sees only the thorns. Another sees the rose growing despite them.

Freemasonry teaches much the same lesson: to meet adversity with discipline, to meet difficulty with perspective, and to continue building ourselves even when life is not ideal.

Character is often revealed not in comfort… but in how a man chooses to see the world around him.

~ The Masonic Orator

05/07/2026

Join us for Shrewsbury Lodge No. 423's Crab Feast!
Date: Saturday July 18
Time: 12-5
Menu: All you can eat Crabs, crab soup, corn and salads.
Cost: $50 per person. Kids under 10 free
RSVP to Tom Cate at 443 324 0442