“The Greatest Secret in Freemasonry Is That There Are No Secrets.” – Benjamin Franklin
That quote—often attributed to Brother Benjamin Franklin—captures one of the most persistent myths about the Craft. Freemasonry isn’t a secret society. It’s a society with a few secrets—but the rest is a legacy of community, personal growth, ethics, and service. And on Sunday, June 23 at 6:00 p.m., I’ll be sharing that legacy at Metropolitan Lodge No. 352 for their annual Layman’s Night.
This free event is open to the public and ideal for anyone who’s ever been curious about Freemasonry—whether you’re intrigued by the symbolism, unsure of what we really do, or simply want to see inside a Masonic lodge for the first time.
📍 Event Details
Layman’s Night at Metropolitan Lodge No. 352
🗓 Sunday, June 23 at 6:00 PM
📌 303 W. Lincoln Avenue, Anaheim, California
📞 RSVP or Questions: (626) 488-8834
📧 Email: noliona@metropolitanlodge352.org
🛠 My Talk: “From the Collegia to the East” – A Three-Part Evening
This evening is divided into three engaging parts:
1️⃣ A Brief History of Freemasonry
We’ll begin by tracing the Craft’s roots—from the Roman Collegia and medieval stonemason guilds to the founding of the first Grand Lodge in 1717. It’s a journey of how practical building tools and principles evolved into moral and spiritual tools for building better men and stronger communities.
2️⃣ The Journey to the East
Next, I’ll explain the progression through the Masonic officer line—from Junior Steward to Worshipful Master. This path is more than just a series of positions; it’s a structured journey of service, self-discovery, and leadership development. Think of it as a personal transformation track rooted in centuries of tradition.
3️⃣ Open Q&A – Ask Anything
The final part of the evening is an open question-and-answer session, and we mean that sincerely. You’re welcome to ask anything about the history, values, symbols, customs, and culture of Freemasonry. We’ll answer as openly and directly as we can.
There are only two things we won’t disclose—our modes of recognition (yes, we do have secret handshakes), and the precise details of our ritual work. But beyond those traditions, everything else is fair game.
❗ Why Attend?
This isn’t a recruitment night. It’s not a pitch. It’s simply an honest conversation about what Freemasonry is, what it isn’t, and why it still matters. Whether you’re skeptical or supportive, religious or secular, this night is designed to welcome all perspectives and answer sincere questions.
If you’ve ever looked at a lodge and wondered what really goes on inside, this is your invitation to find out.
I’ll also be staying afterward to chat informally. So bring your curiosity—we’ll bring the light.
— Raymond E. Foster, PM
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