Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Freemasonry in Illinois
Founded in 1840, the Grand Lodge Af & Am-IL has dedicated over 180 years to fostering brotherhood, self-improvement, and community service. Our organization unites men of integrity from diverse backgrounds who share a belief in a Supreme Being and a commitment to personal growth. Through Masonic principles of equality, charity, and brotherhood, we empower members to become better individuals while making meaningful contributions to society. Our three-degree systemEntered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Masonguides members through symbolic stages of human development, emphasizing moral and ethical growth.With 420 lodges and 45,000 members statewide, we support charitable initiatives like the Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program, Academic Bowl, and Family Identification Program, addressing community needs through education, youth support, and emergency aid. As stewards of centuries-old traditions, we blend historical wisdom with modern relevance to cultivate leadership and civic responsibility.
Services
Freemasonry Membership
Charitable Programs
Educational Initiatives
Lodge Events
Masonic Education
Highlights and features
- We offer over 180 years of Masonic tradition and community leadership
- Our statewide network includes 420 lodges and 45,000 dedicated members
- We provide educational programs like the Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl
- Our charitable initiatives support families, students, and vulnerable populations
- We maintain historical preservation through the Illinois Masonic Library & Museum
Services
Freemasonry Membership
Our membership program welcomes men of integrity who believe in a Supreme Being and seek personal growth through Masonic principles. The three-degree systemEntered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Masonguides members through symbolic stages of human development. Each lodge provides opportunities for fellowship, leadership development, and community service while maintaining centuries-old traditions adapted for modern relevance.
Charitable Programs
We operate multiple charitable initiatives including the Illinois Masonic Outreach Services (IMOS) for member assistance, the Student Assistance Program (IMSAP) for educators, and the Children's Assistance Program (IMCAP). Our Family Identification Program helps prevent child abduction through identification workshops, while Coins For Children supports relief efforts for those in need across Illinois communities.
Educational Initiatives
Our educational programs include the annual Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl, which recognizes academic excellence, and the Scottish Rite's Path Forward Campaign for youth development. We provide resources for lodge-based education through the Masonic Library & Museum and support educators through training programs that help identify and assist at-risk students in partnership with local schools.
Questions
What are the requirements to become a Freemason in Illinois?
Applicants must believe in a Supreme Being, demonstrate good moral character, and be at least 18 years old. No specific religious affiliation is required, but candidates must support the principles of brotherhood and charity.
What charitable programs do Illinois Freemasons support?
We operate the Illinois Masonic Outreach Services (IMOS), Student Assistance Program (IMSAP), Academic Bowl, Children's Assistance Program (IMCAP), and Family Identification Program, focusing on education, youth support, and emergency aid.
How many lodges are there in Illinois?
There are 420 Masonic lodges across Illinois serving approximately 45,000 members, making it one of the largest Masonic jurisdictions in the United States.
What is the history of Illinois Freemasonry?
Illinois Freemasonry has operated under the Grand Lodge since 1840, with continuous service to communities across the state through charitable work, education, and fraternal support for over 180 years.
What community benefits do Illinois Freemasons provide?
We offer educational programs, emergency assistance, child safety initiatives, and support for vulnerable populations through our statewide network of lodges and charitable organizations.
