A Journey Worth Taking

Freemasonry, Brotherhood,
and Service

An open letter to the Brotherhood by Israel Gines, Five Points Lodge No 1137, District 60

Brethren,

When I first knocked on the door of Freemasonry, I had no idea how impactful the journey would be. Like many of you, I was searching – not just for fraternity, but for purpose, tradition, and something that would make me a better man. What I found in my Blue Lodge was all that and more.

My journey was not a typical one. Due to military obligations, training,
activations, and deployments, it took nearly two full years for me to be raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. During that time, there were long stretches when I was away from home, missing degrees and meetings, and wondering if I would ever complete what I had started.

But my Lodge never gave up on me.
The Brothers welcomed me each time I returned, helped me enhance my
proficiency, and ensured I knew I still belonged. To me, that is the essence of
Freemasonry, a Brotherhood that transcends absence, schedules, and life’s obstacles.

Being raised was one of the most meaningful experiences in my life, not only because I had finally completed the journey but also because I knew I hadn’t
done it alone.

Since then, I’ve explored other branches of the Masonic family: the Scottish Rite,
the Grotto, and the National Sojourners. Each has opened new avenues of
fellowship, service, and insight, yet they all rest on the same foundation: the Blue Lodge.

In the Blue Lodge, we learn about our identity and values. In the appendant
bodies, we explore the vastness and depth of Brotherhood.

As a Mason and a military member, I have come to deeply appreciate how
Freemasonry supports personal growth and promotes public service. Whether
through scholarships, assisting veterans, funding medical care for children, or simply being there for a brother in need, we quietly uphold the values that the world needs more: charity, truth, and brotherly love.

To any brother facing military, family, or personal challenges, remember this: the
Craft will wait for you. Your Brothers will stand by you. And when you return, the
Light will still be there.

Uplifting the craft through the community. As Masons of District 60 under the Grand Lodge of Texas, we are part of a proud tradition rooted in timeless principles and reflected in our service to others. At the heart of our Masonic experience lies the Blue Lodge, the sacred space where we first receive the Light and continue to grow in character, brotherhood, and purpose.

The Blue Lodge is more than just an entry point into our fraternity; it is the
foundation. Here, we learn to balance our actions, meet our obligations, and act with integrity. Within these walls, friendships are formed, leaders are shaped, and men are challenged to become better husbands, fathers, citizens, and servants in their communities.

However, the reach of Freemasonry does not end at the Lodge door.
Our appendant and affiliated bodies -including the Scottish Rite, York Rite,
Grotto, National Sojourners, Shriners, and others – extend the Craft's mission meaningfully. Each of these organizations offers opportunities to explore various facets of Masonic teachings while also engaging in charitable work that transforms lives:
– The Scottish Rite and York Rite delve deeper into the moral and spiritual
lessons of Masonry, developing leaders and supporting educational
initiatives.

- The Grotto promotes fellowship and fun among Master Masons while
supporting dental care programs for children with special needs.

– The National Sojourners uphold patriotism and serve veterans,
strengthening our civic fabric.

- The Shriners, known for their joy and pageantry, operate one of the world’s most respected networks of pediatric hospitals. They offer care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

These bodies do not replace the Blue Lodge they build upon it, expanding our impact and deepening our fraternal bonds.

Throughout District 60, we’ve witnessed Masons rising to the occasion during
natural disasters, supporting our schools, working with local law enforcement and first responders, and engaging in numerous quiet acts of relief and assistance.

Our impact is evident through scholarships, food drives, flag programs, or simply
lending a hand to a brother in need.
As Texas Masons, we hold both a legacy and a responsibility. Let us continue to
support our Blue Lodges as the cornerstone of all Masonic work. Let us also
remain active in our appendant bodies, recognizing their unique roles in
extending our reach and embodying our values.
Together, we shine brighter.

Fraternally,
Br Israel Gines
Five Points Lodge, No 1137
District 60, Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.

Become a Member

Are you a Regular Active Master Mason who believes in the power of brotherhood, laughter, and community service? Then Sitara Grotto invites you to step beyond the veil and into the Enchanted Realm. We are a growing fellowship of like-minded Masons committed to spreading mirth, forging meaningful bonds, and making a real impact in our community—through charitable works, public engagement, and a little well-placed humor. If you’re ready to serve with joy and build something lasting, join us at Sitara Grotto, founded in 2025—and help shape the legacy from day one.