Part 2 | Background & Vision
In the second part of our interview, Grand Master Johnson reflects on his beginnings in Freemasonry, his home lodge, favorite memories, and hopes for the future of the Craft in Ohio.
How did you first come to Freemasonry?
I grew up in a small town in Ohio, three traffic lights, very small. My father was a Mason, and I remember him walking down the street to another Brother’s house to learn ritual. After I got out of the service, my father saw me struggling a bit and decided that I needed to be a Freemason. I know he’s not supposed to ask, but he kind of told me what I was going to do, and it’s been a blessing ever since.
Where is your home lodge, and what makes it special?
My home lodge is Fielding Lodge No. 192 in South Charleston, Ohio. It’s small, only about 80 members, but we’re known for being a lodge that enjoys having fun. We’re all good friends and like to joke around, but when it’s time for ritual work, we come together and do it well.
One thing we’re famous for is our inspection dinners, we serve prime rib that’s so big it falls off the plate, with a huge baked potato. It’s a little lodge with a big heart.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time as a Freemason?
There are so many, but one that really stands out is when I received my 3rd Degree. That moment impressed upon me what Freemasonry is truly about. The Brothers who conferred the degree gave of themselves and delivered excellent ritual work, it had a profound impact on me. That’s part of why I emphasize ritual excellence today; I know how powerful it can be.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about this Masonic year?
We are at our best when we live by Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Charity has always been a defining part of who we are. This year we’ll continue to support causes that reflect our core values, especially those that honor veterans, first responders, and their families.
Charity is more than writing a check, it’s about presence.
That’s why I’m encouraging every Mason to consider becoming an Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Volunteer, to reach out to a Brother or widow who may feel isolated or forgotten. A visit, a phone call, or a helping hand reminds them that they are valued members of our Masonic family.
Philosophically, we also need to remember why we knocked at the door in the first place: to become better men through ritual, fellowship, learning, and service. When we strengthen those pillars, we strengthen not only the Craft but every community in Ohio that relies on good men to lead with integrity and compassion.
If there’s one message I hope guides us this year, it’s this: “let’s make Masonry visible, meaningful, and matter every single day.”
What do you envision for Ohio Freemasonry in the long term?
I envision Ohio Freemasonry thriving- not just in membership numbers, but in strength of character, purpose, and community impact. I see lodges filled with Brothers who are deeply engaged in the Craft, living their values, and forging strong bonds within their communities.
We must preserve our traditions of ritual excellence and brotherhood while embracing tools that help us remain relevant in an ever-changing world. The future depends on developing leaders, within and beyond the lodge room, and empowering every Mason to contribute his unique talents.
The central part of this future is strengthening our connections with the appendant bodies, the Ohio Masonic Communities, and the many programs that serve veterans, first responders, and neighbors in need. Through these partnerships, we can be a visible and reliable resource in every corner of Ohio.
Ultimately, our legacy will be defined by how faithfully we uphold our obligations to one another and to society. If we remain true to our principles and show the world the good that Masonry can accomplish, our light will shine even brighter for generations to come.