When you think “John Wayne,” you think “Famous Hollywood Actor.” You think “The Ultimate Cowboy.” You think “Red-White-and-True-Blue Patriot.” But did you know he also was a very devoted Freemason? Let’s take a moment to see why. Humble Roots in Iowa and California Born in Winterset, Iowa, on May 26, 1907, the man the world…
Let’s take a moment to focus on the Freemasonry Mission Statement spotlighted on the Valley of Portland’s website. It reads that our mission is “to improve [our] members and enhance the communities in which [we] live by teaching and emulating the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth, while actively embracing high social, moral,…
If you ask us, “What is the most frustrating thing Freemasons have to deal with?” many of us will reply, “All the myths and misinformation out there about Freemasonry.” The fact is, ever since Freemasonry was formally founded at the Grand Lodge of England in 1717, Masons have had to deal with a host of…
It’s a pretty amazing historical fact: Even though our U.S. presidents came from very different backgrounds and stations in life, nearly 1 out of 3 of them shared one important thing in common: they were Freemasons. What drew these outstanding American leaders—these 15 presidents—to Freemasonry? What values did they embrace as Freemasons that empowered their…
Here’s a quick, one-question Pop Quiz for you: In the U.S., which state is the “oldest” in terms of the median age of its citizens? If you guessed “Maine,” give yourself an A+. Because the median age of folks in Maine is 45.1 years, and more than 1 in 5 of us is 65 or…
Let’s call it “The Opportunity You May Not Have Seen.” Because the fact is, Maine’s long winter—which often brings challenges and perhaps a headache or two—also offers Freemasons an excellent opportunity to live one of our core values: to help others, to help neighbors. And this is especially true if your neighbors are older ……
January 24-26 Friday Night Pizza at the Rockport Masonic Center 361 Main St Rockport 5-8pm and then Hospitality at the Samoset Suite. Saturday couples explore the area. Room Rates between $149-$169 + $20 resort fee King or Queens, garden/partial ocean views. 207-594-2511 to book rooms. One- or two-night option is available, book your room with…
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…
When you think of Thanksgiving, do you think immediately of Freemasonry? Maybe not? Well, it turns out you should! Because two Freemasons—including U.S. President and Freemason George Washington—had a huge impact on the American version of the Thanksgiving holiday we celebrate today. In fact, President Washington and one of his Brothers in Freemasonry, Brother Elias…
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…