The Masonic Society
A young organization by Masonic terms, founded in 2008 the Masonic Society is the fastest growing research group in Freemasonry.
The name of the organization intentionally alludes to the Royal Society, the innovative organization of visionary men who were at the forefront of the Age of Enlightenment, many of whom were present at the formation of what became modern Freemasonry. Likewise, the Society is at the forefront of a new age of Freemasonry, and we are a vibrant, active community within the fraternity, with members in 17 countries around the world.
The goal of The Masonic Society is not just to look backward at the history of Freemasonry, but to foster the intellectual, spiritual and social growth of the modern Masonic fraternity.
To that end, The Masonic Society extends the hand of assistance and cooperation to individual research lodges throughout the Masonic world. It is the desire of The Masonic Society to cooperate with these lodges, to give their members the regular opportunity to publish their papers for an international audience, and to publicize their activities.
The Masonic Society has also forged a special relationship with those bodies that meet annually during Masonic Week, as well as with the Masonic Service Association, the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the US, and the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association. While not designed as a York Rite-specific research group, The Masonic Society especially encourages examination of this branch of Freemasonry.
The society is organized into two distinct groups:
Annual First Circle gatherings – Each year, The Masonic Society is an active participant in the Allied Masonic Degrees “Masonic Week,” held in February in Alexandria, Virginia, which includes their annual First Circle gathering. An additional semi-annual symposium is held elsewhere once a year. These events are educational, informative, but most of all, fun and memorable to attend.
Second Circles – Masonic Society members are automatically members of state-wide or regional groups called Second Circles. These groups organize more localized seminars, speeches, dinners and other gathering, and members are encouraged to meet and work with brethren in their areas.