Join us for our Grand Master Interview Series Part 2: Coming to Freemasonry, as we discuss how Most Worshipful Brother William M. Carter III came to our craft and what keeps him coming to lodge every month.
MWB Carter, tell us how you first came to Freemasonry.
My journey into Freemasonry began with a simple yet profound moment that can never be forgotten. My memory is forever marked with having seen tears in my grandfather’s eyes as he poured out his heart to me during a conversation about being a life member of Cedar Lodge #60 in Michigan. The depth of his emotion, his pride, and his connection to the Craft left an indelible mark on my heart. In that moment it became clear to me that there was something extraordinary about Freemasonry, something worth exploring – not just because it was a relative telling me so, but because of the fire inside the eyes of that man.
Yet, my path was not without its challenges. Upon my researching Freemasonry on the then-new internet back in the early 1990s, the first site presented by the search engine was vocally anti masonic in its tone and rhetoric. Honestly, it planted seeds of doubt that deterred me from joining for more than 10 years, but it never could fully extinguish the light of my grandfather’s passion that had also kindled a flame within me.
That early challenge eventually shaped both my role and my approach as a Mason. My grandfather’s love for the Craft, coupled with my drive to uncover the truth, inspired me to delve deeply into the origins and mysteries of Freemasonry. It has been said that the U.S. Secret Service agents do not study the vast number of methods to counterfeit money, but instead learn the qualities of real currency so intimately that any falsehood is immediately apparent to them. So began my 20-year commitment to learning the true essence of our Fraternity. By deeply seeking an understanding of our rituals, symbols, origins, and history, it not only dispelled the falsehoods but it brought me to a place of fiercely cherishing and defending the profound truths of Freemasonry.
This journey has been one of discovery and passion—a journey ignited by my grandfather’s tears and carried forward by my own determination and the support of my Brethren. This is the reason for my endless motivation to bring inspiring and educational moments into our Lodges and our assemblies. We, as Masons, have inherited something truly profound and transformational.
Where is your home lodge? Tell us a bit about your home lodge and what makes it so special. Are there any events or programs your lodge is known for?
My home Lodge is Dover Lodge #489 in Westlake, Ohio. Dover Lodge is one of the smaller Lodges within our State, but the Brethren there are deeply committed to Masonic education and meaningful experiences. Within our Masonic district, our Lodge is known for being one that focuses very heavily on building Masons by providing them with a profound level of education and equipping them to explore further through the lessons of history and humanity.
Dover Lodge is known for having its own very special and unique ceremonies that celebrate the Feasts of the Holy Saints John. During these highly symbolic and experiential ceremonies, deeper truths are uncovered in several key symbols and aspects of our initiation ceremonies. These ceremonies strengthen the bond between Dover Masons, as they are only held with members of the Lodge – creating a very special bond among our small but committed circle of Brethren.
Share your favorite memory from your time as a Freemason with us.
There are so many amazing memories! Perhaps one of my favorites was a road trip our Lodge took to tour the absolutely incredible Masonic complex in Detroit, Michigan. This edifice is truly awesome to behold and really inspired the Brethren with a sense of belonging to something ageless and profound. The creativity, skill, treasures, and time of countless Brethren have been poured so generously into our Craft, and as we drove back to Westlake the Brethren were both exhausted and energized.
In fact we were so energized that, despite our fatigue, we decided to stay at Lodge for another 3 hours for an impromptu educational presentation exploring the depths of the symbolism and the references to our origin that we had just witnessed!
Is there anything else you’d like to share about this Masonic year (charity, philosophy, Be Legendary)?
Let’s talk for a moment about the theme for this year, because “Be Legendary” is not just a theme; it is a call to action that resonates deeply within the soul of Freemasonry. It is an invitation to rise above the ordinary and make an extraordinary impact on the lives of our Brothers and the communities we serve. To be legendary is to learn endlessly and to labor tirelessly, with passion and purpose, leaving behind a legacy that others will look to with admiration and inspiration. Freemasonry has always been a light in the darkness, and each of us is called to be a keeper of that flame—to let it shine brightly in all that we do.
Recently it was my pleasure to have a conversation with a Brother about the essence of a legend. We agreed that legends do not rest upon their titles, nor do they fade into obscurity once their labors are done. A legend is someone who transforms the lives of others, who serves with selfless dedication, and who embodies the virtues that inspire others to be better. A legend is not defined by accolades or recognition but by the love and respect earned through service, integrity, and devotion.
“Be Legendary” is not simply a tagline; it is a calling to the heart of every Mason. It is our mark. It asks each of us to reflect upon the lives we touch, the wisdom we share, and the light we spread. It challenges us to carry forward the timeless values of our Craft with energy and determination, creating ripples that will resonate for generations to come. Masons, in realizing our profound inheritance, embrace this calling and live as the legends we are meant to be, blazing forth the Sacred Flame for all to see.
What do you envision for Ohio Freemasonry in the long-term?
My long-term vision for Freemasonry is rooted in the belief that our Craft is more relevant and needed now than ever before. In a world filled with uncertainty, division, and a yearning for purpose, Freemasonry stands as a beacon of Light, offering guidance, wisdom, and hope. There is a growing hunger for what we hold dear—the values of brotherhood, truth, and moral fortitude. Men, women, and youth alike are expressing an unprecedented interest in the mysteries of our Craft, seeking a sense of connection and meaning that our Masonic family can uniquely provide.
But with this interest comes a solemn responsibility. We must live up to the words we speak in our ceremonies. The world grows weary of promises undelivered, and we cannot afford to let our actions fall short of the ideals we proclaim. It is time to reinvest in creating quality experiences in our Lodges—experiences that reflect the profound teachings of our rituals and ceremonies, where each Brother feels inspired and uplifted. Freemasonry must recommit itself to being a place where those who seek Light find it burning brightly in every aspect of their Masonic journey.
For those concerned with quantity, let me be clear: focusing on quality makes Freemasonry immensely attractive. Prospects will see the depth and meaning of our work, and current members will rediscover the joy and pride of being an active Mason inside as well as outside of the Lodge. Quality builds a strong foundation upon which both our members and our Craft can flourish. And as we work to further enhance our Lodges, let us not forget our duty to care for one another. The strength of the family of Freemasonry lies in the bonds we share, and no Sister or Brother should ever feel left behind.
Freemasonry will grow organically when we are focused and inspired by leadership that sees a clear path forward. It is in the Lodge where Freemasonry truly happens, where ceremonies are performed, lessons are taught, bonds are forged, and the community is touched. Let us recommit to making our Lodges vibrant centers of brotherhood and learning. We will continue to be visible and relevant to a world that desperately seeks the Light we offer. Together, inspired and united, we can ensure that Freemasonry remains not only a legacy of the past, but a living, thriving force for good in the present and future!
If you’re interested in learning more about MWB Carter read Part 1 of our interview with the new Grand Master!