*This interview was conducted in 2024 when Bro. Johnson was the active Senior Grand Warden. For a full list of up to date Grand Lodge of Ohio leadership please refer to our leadership page.
Please introduce yourself. Tell us your name, title, home lodge, and how long you’ve been a Freemason.
My name is Shawn Johnson and I am the Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. I am from the 9th Masonic district and am a member of Fielding Lodge #192 in South Charleston, Ohio. I’ve been a Mason for 32 years; I was raised a Master Mason on May 30, 1992.
Tell us about how and why you became a Grand Lodge Officer? When did you join?
In December of 2017 my wife Colleen and I were asked out to dinner with MWB Jess N. Raines, who was the Deputy Grand Master at the time, and his wife, Lady Kelly Raines. Colleen and I were both wondering why they were asking us to dinner but we knew them well and were happy to see them, regardless. When Colleen and I walked into the restaurant, we noticed that the Deputy Grand Master and Lady Kelly were already at the table and that he had a large folder sitting next to him.
We enjoyed each other’s company and talked during dinner for about an hour, but as dinner was winding down he asked me if I would like to help him planning the upcoming trip to D.C. As I was sitting there thinking about it, a smile came across his face and then he asked if I would like to be his Junior Grand Deacon. For the first time I was speechless and I was so curious as to why he had asked me.
I was given some time to think about it and there were several conversations between Colleen and I, as well as a handful of sleepless nights. After some time I called him back and accepted the appointment. The decision to become a Grand Lodge Officer was not an easy one, it is overwhelming to think that you will be involved with the leadership of the fraternity that you love so much.
What is the role of the Senior Grand Warden? What are your responsibilities?
As Senior Grand Warden my main focus is completing our yearly plan, taking into consideration everything that I have seen and heard throughout my journey. I also work on scheduling and optimizing my calendar for meetings and events. This is also the last year that I review inspection reports for Lodges around Ohio.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Grand Lodge of Ohio leadership?
It’s an honor to learn and help plan the future of our fraternity with such successful and distinguished brothers. I’m humbled and proud to be allowed to serve the brothers of Ohio.
What do you hope for the future of Ohio Freemasonry?
I hope we grow and find a way to appeal to a younger generation. Most importantly, we need to connect with our young men of Ohio DeMolay and help them transition into a blue lodge.
Do you have any advice for members looking to get involved?
My advice for members who are looking to get involved is just do it. It might be uncomfortable at first but the reward is worth it. You will meet so many Brothers from every walk of life.
Anything else you’d like to share?
This has been an amazing journey so far. I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from and serve with so many amazing brothers. This fraternity has made me a better man, husband and father, and I am thankful for the support from my family and to be able to share this brotherhood with my brother and father as well.
Want to learn more about this year’s Grand Lodge of Ohio Officers? Read our blogs with our 2024 Grand Treasurer and Junior Grand Deacon!