When Most Worshipful Brother Shawn Johnson selected “Committed to the Craft” as the theme for his term as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, he chose words that reflect how Ohio Freemasons live the values of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth through everyday service.
Commitment is not found in titles or positions alone. It is found in consistency. In showing up. In quiet service. In mentoring a Brother, strengthening a lodge, and living the lessons learned during ritual long after the meeting has ended.
To bring this theme to life, the Grand Lodge of Ohio invited Ohio Freemasons to nominate Brothers and lodges who exemplify what it truly means to be Committed to the Craft. The responses reminded us that Freemasonry’s strength lives in its people — men who lead through action, humility, and care for others.
We are honored to share a few of those nominations.
East Palestine Lodge No. 417: Brotherhood Without Borders
Commitment to the Craft is also reflected in the moments when Freemasonry brings men together across distance, background, and perspective.
At a recent stated meeting of East Palestine Lodge No. 417, that commitment was on full display. Three Brothers from Glasgow, Scotland joined the lodge in attendance as an Entered Apprentice Degree was conferred, a powerful reminder of the global bonds that unite Freemasons.
They were joined by nearly 60 Masons from across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, representing a wide range of professions and life experiences. Marketers, auctioneers, bankers, and many others gathered not as titles or viewpoints, but simply as Brothers — meeting on the level and enjoying each other’s company.
The fellowship did not end with the closing gavel. More than 30 Brothers stayed late into the evening, sharing conversation, refreshments, and genuine connection. In a world often marked by division, the gathering stood as a quiet but meaningful example of what Freemasonry does best: creating space for unity, respect, and friendship.
Moments like these remind us that being Committed to the Craft means valuing fellowship, welcoming others, and strengthening the bonds that transcend geography and circumstance.
Worshipful Brother Kim Sparks: Leading with Humility and Care
Past Master, Englewood Lodge No. 743 | Secretary, Vandalia Lodge No. 742
Worshipful Brother Kim Sparks is known for strengthening Freemasonry wherever he serves.
From guiding Englewood Lodge through a thoughtful and successful merger, to serving as Secretary of Vandalia Lodge with exceptional care, to supporting events across the Second Masonic District, Brother Sparks leads with humility and purpose.
He is known for his warm smile, his willingness to help wherever needed, and his dedication to uplifting his Brothers. Through leadership that is steady rather than showy, he demonstrates what it means to live Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth every single day.
Worshipful Brother Mark Harris: A Life of Quiet Service
Past Master, Rubicon Lodge No. 237 | Associate Grand Chaplain
For more than a decade, Worshipful Brother Mark Harris has embodied the principles of Freemasonry through steady, reliable service.
For 12 years, he has been the Brother others can count on — consistently showing up, lending a hand, offering comfort, and quietly taking care of what needs to be done, no matter the circumstance or the day.
Now 71 and enjoying retirement, he continues to serve with the same dedication that has defined his Masonic journey. His compassion, dependability, and unwavering presence remain a source of strength to his lodge and to all who know him.
This is commitment, lived daily.
Brother A. K. Fullmer: Service in Action
Junior Warden, Hoover Lodge
Brother A. K. Fullmer’s commitment to the Craft is visible in both large and small ways.
As Junior Warden of Hoover Lodge, he is often the first to arrive and the one ensuring the Lodge room is ready — taking responsibility for behind-the-scenes work that allows others to focus on fellowship and ritual. His leadership is quiet, dependable, and consistent.
When a newly raised Master Mason needed help preparing for his returns, Brother Fullmer made time to study with him, answer questions, and offer encouragement. When a Brother faced a difficult situation and needed assistance with his vehicle, Brother Fullmer immediately stepped in — coordinating help, organizing resources, and ensuring the need was met without seeking recognition.
His 20 years of service in the United States Army reflect the same values he brings to Freemasonry: loyalty, humility, and integrity. Whether supporting fellow soldiers, assisting Brothers in need, or speaking at a Veterans Day ceremony focused on love of country and community, Brother Fullmer lives the virtues taught in our degrees.
He does not simply speak about Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth — he lives them.
Commitment That Sustains the Craft
These Brothers represent something essential about Freemasonry: the Craft is strengthened not by words alone, but by actions repeated over time.
We are grateful to every Brother who took the time to share these nominations, and to the countless Ohio Freemasons whose daily commitment ensures that our fraternity remains strong, meaningful, and enduring.
Together, these stories show how Ohio Freemasonry is sustained by men and lodges who live our values and remain truly Committed to the Craft.
To learn more about “Committed to the Craft,” the theme guiding MWB Shawn Johnson’s 2025–2026 term as Grand Master, read his full blog feature.