California Freemasonry ardently supports free public education, and Chico Lodge has always been an active supporter of our public schools. the minutes of the Lodge are testimony to the concern and participation of the Masons of Chico in matters affecting public education in our community. Masons recognize the essential role of public schools as a primary unifying force for our free American society.
Masonry is a patriotic institution. Appreciation for the law of our nation is demonstrated by an annual observance honoring the U.S. Constitution, which is the foundation of our national liberty, and by observance of Flag Day.
Masonry stands for exemplary moral conduct to which we are personally committed by our vows and obligations as well as by the removal of membership of any Mason who does not lie up to the standards which he is expected to perpetuate. Past Gran Master of Indiana, Dwight L. Smith, summed it up this way:
"The person who yearns to be a bit above the average can climb several rungs on the ladder of excellence - first, by refusing to be content with mediocrity, then by lifting his standards to the highest possible level of attainment and working unceasingly to measure up to those standards."
"It all adds up to the fact that the purpose of Freemasonry is and always has been to take a good man - just one at a time - and try by our teachings to make a better man out of him."
Masonry must speak out for that for which it stands. It has a character building philosophy. It compels men to look at themselves, to clean up their own act when character seems to get out of line. Men will regulate their behavior when they do not want to affect the group to which they belong, especially when that group is a Lodge of Freemasons advocating standards which are the bond of all society.
It is not a social kind of thing; it is a fraternity, a brotherhood, mutually supporting yet helpfully guiding.
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