In connection with the 2026 theme, “Committed to the Craft,” introduced by the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, Shawn Johnson, we invited Ohio-based Masons to share the many ways their Lodges have recently grown and improved.
Their responses highlight the hard work, dedication, and commitment to Masonic values demonstrated across the state. These improvements range from physical renovations and facility upgrades to meaningful increases in positivity, engagement, and overall morale within their Lodges.
Proctorville, No. 550
Submitted by Wayne Elkins, Treasurer
We have a group of dedicated Brothers who are constantly looking for ways to improve our Lodge and community. Here is a small list of the things we are doing:
- Our long-range committee addresses all aspects of the Masonic experience, including anything from business and facilities to the quality of our ritual and community engagement. After careful review, the committee implements each improvement to ensure a positive outcome.
- We established the office of our Assistant Secretary and Treasurer and allow full access to ensure continuity and smooth operations when needed.
- We have implemented a cloud-based accounting system, allowing for transparency of all Lodge budgets and accounting which helps us stay on track and make wise decisions.
- We hired an outside cleaning service to have a facility we can be proud of and make every event enjoyable.
- We have a dedicated group of Brothers working on fundraising.
- We participate in every community event we are able to attend. For example, after The Village Christmas Parade, our Lodge was opened to the community for hot chocolate, coffee and cookies.
- We assist with local youth sports programs, including some Brothers who serve on the board and others that help with concessions.
- We also have plans for an elaborate memorial garden to serve as a place to reflect and honor our Brothers throughout the years.
I could go on and on about the positive things that are going on at Proctorville No.550. I use the word we a lot, but for a lodge to prosper, it takes everyone from the Brothers who are working and cannot attend very often but continue to pay their dues in a prompt manner, to the Brothers you can count on to be there every time. Our wives and family our Treasa Chapter #257 Eastern Star and a leadership that is willing to change the way things are done.
Does this mean there are never any roadblocks or bumps in the road? No, we can expect them and be stronger after working through them. Proctorville No.550 is ALIVE and well!
Eastern Star Masonic Lodge #55
Submitted by Blake Fiore
Eastern Star Masonic Lodge #55 is experiencing a remarkable season of growth. Not just in the improvements made to our building, but in the renewed energy, unity, and purpose of the brethren who call this Lodge home.
What started as an effort to strengthen fellowship has transformed our library from a quiet study space into a welcoming gathering area. With massage chairs and a television, it’s now a comfortable hub where Brothers can relax, connect and strengthen the bonds of Brotherhood.
The kitchen, long the heart of lodge meals and events, has been upgraded with new shelving and plans for a new stove and dishwasher—improvements that make hosting easier and more efficient.
The dining hall has also been transformed, replacing old tables and chairs with elegant round tables and comfortable seating, creating a warm space where fellowship thrives and Brothers gather with genuine joy.
Outside our walls, our new digital sign proudly announces our presence to the community. Visible to anyone driving toward Walmart or through the surrounding area, it shares upcoming events, celebrates holidays, and reminds our neighbors that Eastern Star #55 is active, engaged, and here to serve.
And serve we do.
Our Lodge has embraced fellowship not as a concept, but as a call to action. We host blood drives, support Toys for Tots, assist with parade patrols, and volunteer at local churches to help package meals for undernourished children around the world. These efforts reflect our belief that Freemasonry is most powerful when it reaches beyond the lodge room and into the lives of those who need it most.
Through every project, every improvement, and every act of service, one truth has become clear: the brethren of Eastern Star #55 are motivated, inspired, and united. We are committed not only to the Craft, but to one another living out the timeless tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth in ways that make a lasting impact.
Eastern Star Masonic Lodge #55 is not just updating a building.
We are strengthening a legacy.
We are building a future.
And we are doing it together as brothers, as servants of our community, and as proud Masons dedicated to making a difference.
Lucasville #465
Submitted by Jason Throckmorton
We decided to refresh our candidate prep room to create a chamber of reflection in order to be able to qualify for the Grand Master’s Award. Our candidate prep room hadn’t been updated since the building was constructed in the 1950s. The second time we used the room was at our annual inspection. Our candidate wrote his wedding vows while reflecting before the degree work began.
West Shore #804
Submitted by Robert Painter
Our Lodge’s Facade Revitalization Project deserves special recognition because it was more than just a building improvement — it was an investment in our community and in the future of our Lodge.
For years, our building has been a familiar part of the neighborhood. Like many older structures, though, it had begun to show its age. The exterior no longer reflected the pride we have in our work or the history behind our walls. Through this project, we repaired and restored the façade, updated lighting and signage, and made improvements that gave the building a clean, welcoming, and dignified appearance again.
The difference has been noticeable. Community members have stopped to comment on how good the building looks, and several have shared that they are glad to see it brought back to life. The updated exterior has improved the overall look of the area and has helped reestablish the Lodge as an active and cared-for part of the neighborhood rather than just another aging building.
The project also brought our members together. From planning and fundraising to coordinating the work, it was a true team effort. It strengthened our sense of pride and ownership, and it reminded us that stewardship of our building is part of our responsibility to the community.
Most importantly, the revitalized façade makes our Lodge more inviting. A well-maintained and well-lit exterior encourages people to attend events, ask questions, and feel comfortable walking through our doors. It shows that we care — about our building, our history, and the town we serve.
This project deserves recognition because it reflects commitment, pride, and community impact. It preserved a local landmark, improved the surrounding area, and renewed visibility for an organization that continues to serve its community.
Middleport #363
Submitted by Jordan Pickens
This August, our Masonic Lodge had the front of our building repainted as an ongoing effort to maintain and support the internal and external of our Masonic Lodge.
