The Freemasons: History, Secrets and Future

with John Toto and Doug Ellis

The idea of Freemasonry conjures up all sorts of images, mostly from popular culture.  This fraternal organization has its origins in the stonemason guilds of the 16th Century.  Its tenants are timeless:  Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.  Some define it as an organization of men symbolically applying principles of architecture and masonry to the science and art of character building.  The groundwork for America's founding was laid by the cornerstone of Freemasonry.  What is it about this organization that intrigues many today?  The secrets it keeps?  The Knights Templar link?  The storied history and the great men who have been and are Freemasons?  What is its place in society today?

A Mason for 10 years, member of Joseph Warren-Soley Lodge in Lincoln and a Wayland resident for 26 years, John Toto will enlighten attendees with a talk to understand this so-called secret society.  In Masonic circles Mr. Toto's title is Right Worshipful.  He is presently the District Deputy Grand Master of the 14th District overseeing seven Lodges and over 1,000 Freemasons.  Mr. Toto is a 32 Degree Scottish Rite Mason, a member of the Shriners, and a member of several York Rite bodies including Knights Templar.