Installation Day

Every year in most American lodges the officers are elected and installed into their offices. This brother is about to be elevated to the highest office in his lodge, that of Master. It is an office of great responsibility and authority. Masonry seeks only to elevate its best brothers to this office, and depends on them to exercise their wisdom as custodians of our honored craft.

The George Washington Bible

George Washington, the first President of the United States of America, took his oath of office on the Bible owned by St. Johns Lodge No. 1 in New York City. This Bible has remained in the possession of St. Johns Lodge since that time, and is maintained as a national treasure.

Frequently the officers of many Grand Lodges, New York in particular, ask to take their obligations on the George Washington Bible. Here you see the Bible being placed on the altar for the installation of officers for the Grand Lodge of New York during their 2006 grand session.

The Bible is always accompanied by a team from St. Johns Lodge. The gloves you see are always worn when handling the Bible. This prevents oils from our hands from causing damage. Also, all flash photography must be done from a safe distance.

The Great Light

The Holy Bible, the Great Light in Masonry, is the rule and guide that a Mason should diligently search within to find the path to righteousness. Freemasonry, though, urgess upon all of its members that each should read the Great Light personally to find the light they need in their lives. Masonry is not a religion and we obligate our members on their holy book, if it be the Talmud, the Koran, or the Gitas. But in every regular and well governed lodge of Freemasons you will find a volume of sacred law.

Here you see a lodge room with the altar in the center upon which rest an open Bible. The three candles placed around the altar are always lit when the Great Light is open, as a sign of respect, and to illuminate it for the benefit of the craft.

The Shriners

The Shriners of North America are likely one of the best known Masonic organizations in America. Many people do not know it, but to be a Shriner you must first be a Freemason.

The Shrine is involved in many philanthropic pursuits. It's greatest being their burn and orthopedic hospitals for children.

Shriners participate in parades in their local communities to raise awareness of their works with children, and to promote the organization. Members will ride motorcycles, miniature cars, play in bands, but probably the most recognizable participants are the Shrine clowns.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II, Canon EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L USM, 1/800 @ f/5.6 400mm ISO 400