We hear these questions all the time: Is Freemasonry a religion? Is it somehow related to Christianity? How do Freemasons view Christmas? If you are reading this Valley of Portland blog, you likely know that no, Freemasonry is not a religion. We warmly welcome men of many different faiths and beliefs into our Brotherhood. We […]
Masonic Values & Leadership
What is Healthy Masculinity … and How Can Freemasons Achieve It?
You’ve probably heard it your entire life: “Man up,” people say. Or “Act like a man.” Statements like these reflect a “Guy Code” that society often imposes on men, reflecting unspoken rules you are supposed to follow. But how much do these “rules” reflect healthy masculinity—as opposed to the “toxic” kind? And how can Freemasons […]
Why Truth is So Important to Freemasons
If you’re like most American men, you probably remember that very important life lesson you learned from your dad. The lesson about Truth. Your dad likely said something like, “Be truthful, son. Don’t lie. A man’s word should be as good as his bond.” In this way, you learned that Truth is foundational to personal […]
Early History of Freemasons in Maine
Some things just go together naturally. Take, for example, the state motto of Maine (“Dirigo”) and Freemasonry. “Dirigo” is a Latin word meaning “I lead.” And being an honorable leader—someone who steps up for your family and community—is a core part of being a Mason. So how did Maine and Freemasonry first come together? Where […]
Are You a Good Role Model? A Checklist for Masons
Take a moment to ask yourself: “Who do I know who is a good role model?” Do you think of your dad? Your mother? A beloved grandparent, uncle, or aunt? Or do you think of Masons throughout history such as George Washington, whose life was the very embodiment of integrity? No matter who you think […]
Christmas and Freemasonry: Exploring the Deeper Meaning
As we go through the very special and cherished Christmas season, let’s pause for a few moments to reflect on the deeper meaning of Christmas for Masons. What is the relationship between Christmas and Freemasonry? What affirmed values does our brotherhood share with the Christmas story and with the teachings of Jesus? Let’s consider . […]
Treating Women Respectfully: Thoughts for Masons & Order of the Eastern Star
As Masons, we are deeply and profoundly committed to living a values-based life—one devoted to Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth. And if you are one of the more than 6,000 members of the Maine Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, your membership is based on a Masonic affiliation or relationship, and […]
Values-Based Listening Skills for Masons
As Masons, we are crystal-clear—and deeply passionate—about our moral values. Go to our Valley of Portland website and you’ll see it plainly laid out: “We believe in teaching and emulating the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth.” And though we often don’t think specifically about listening skills in this connection, the fact is […]
How to Promote Freemasonry to Friends and Other Prospects
It’s one of the tougher challenges we face: How can we successfully promote Freemasonry to others? How can we most effectively communicate to others the deep enrichment we receive by being brothers—and the enrichment we bring to others in our community? Let’s take a couple of minutes to shine light on a few of the […]
Why Maine Men Should Become Masons
When you think of “Maine men,” what do you think of? The stereotype might be a guy with a northern New England accent, wearing a plaid shirt and expertly handling a lobster roll. But it goes way beyond that. Maine men come from a distinctive culture—with a distinctive set of values—that makes them perfectly suited […]
