Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free and Accepted Masons Georgia Masonry: Making Good Men Better Since 1786. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://glofga.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Masonic Home of Georgia - Our Kids. Our Story. Our Impact.](https://glofga.org/2026/08/masonic-home-of-georgia-our-kids-our-story-our-impact/) - [The Legal Foundation of the Grand Lodge of Georgia (1796)](https://glofga.org/2026/02/the-legal-foundation-of-the-grand-lodge-of-georgia-1796/) - In February 1796, the State of Georgia formally incorporated the Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Georgia, recognizing an organization that had already existed in the state since 1735. The Act acknowledged the long-standing presence of Masonic lodges, their charitable purpose, and their commitment to universal benevolence. Through this legislation, the Grand Lodge of Georgia was - [Masonic Home of Georgia Budget](https://glofga.org/2024/10/masonic-home-of-georgia-budget/) - Download the Preliminary Signed Budget (PDF) - [Masonic Education & Leadership Development](https://glofga.org/2024/07/masonic-education-leadership-development/) - Join us for MELD's tenth anniversary and another year of exceptional Masonic leadership education! - [A Spotlight on Richard G. Burke (Imperial Potentate)](https://glofga.org/2024/07/honoring-leadership-a-spotlight-on-richard-burke/) - The Grand Lodge of Georgia is proud to highlight the remarkable leadership within the Masonic community. A Journey of Dedication Richard Burke's Masonic journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and service. As a member of the Imperial Divan,z Burke has demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding Shriners International with vision and integrity. His contributions have - [Masonic Messenger: Summer 2024](https://glofga.org/2024/06/masonic-messenger-summer-2024/) - Download the Summer 2024 Edition - [Hello world!](https://glofga.org/2019/08/hello-world/) - Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing! ## Pages - [](https://glofga.org/) - Discover the rich history and traditions of Georgia Freemasonry. Learn how our members contribute to their communities and build better versions of themselves. - [Southeastern Masonic Conference](https://glofga.org/se-masonic-conference/) - Grand Lodge of Alabama: www.glofal.com Grand Master- M∴W∴ Andrew BarnettGrand Secretary- R∴W∴ Zachary A. Holmes Grand Lodge of Arkansas: argrandlodge.com Grand Master- M∴W∴ Thomas LampirezGrand Secretary- M∴W∴ Bradley Phillips, PGM Grand Lodge of Florida: grandlodgefl.com Grand Master - M∴W∴ Haskell R. Vest, Jr.Grand Secretary - M∴W∴ Jeffrey S. Foster, PGM Grand Lodge of Georgia: glofga.org - [Grand Lodge of Georgia • Appointive Officers](https://glofga.org/grand-lodge-of-georgia-appointive-officers/) - Appointive Officers - Traveling Crew Appointive Officers Traveling Crew (Grand Lodge of Georgia) Year Name Grand Master Office Status 2025-2026 Ronald H. Wise, Jr. William F. "Bill" Shepard Worshipful and Reverend Grand Chaplain 2025-2026 Christopher D. Gabor William F. "Bill" Shepard Worshipful Grand Marshal 2025-2026 Charles E. Taylor William F. "Bill" Shepard Grand Tyler 2024-2025 - [Annual Communication](https://glofga.org/annualcommunication/) - October 25–28, 2026 240th Annual Grand Lodge Communication Georgia Masons will gather in Macon for fellowship, service, leadership, and the important work of our Grand Lodge. Be Humble – Make a Difference Grand Lodge of Georgia, F. & A.M. • Macon, Georgia Welcome from the Grand Master MWB William F. Shepard, Grand Master of Masons - [2026 MELD Conference](https://glofga.org/2026-meld-conference/) - 2026 MELD Conference The 2026 Masonic Education & Leadership Development Conference will be held July 10–12, 2026, at Georgia College in Milledgeville. This conference is designed to help build stronger Lodge leaders across Georgia. Lodges are encouraged to select a Brother from their officer line, but the opportunity is open to all Master Masons in - [Masonic Messenger](https://glofga.org/masonic-messenger/) - 2013 December 2013 October 2013 August 2013 June 2013 April 2013 February 2013 2014 December 2014 October 2014 August 2014 June 2014 April 2014 February 2014 2015 December 2015 October 2015 August 2015 June 2015 April 2015 February 2015 2016 October 2016 August 2016 June 2016 April 2016 February 2016 2017 December 2017 October 2017 - [Children's Garden Paver Locator](https://glofga.org/childrens-garden-paver-locator/) - Use the search box below to find a paver stone. - [Past Grand Master List](https://glofga.org/past-grand-master-list/) - [2026 District Conventions](https://glofga.org/2026-district-conventions/) -  2026 Masonic District Conventions Registration is 1 hour before meeting time. District Date Time Location Host Lodge 1st March 28, 2026 10:00 AM Rome Cherokee Lodge No. 66 2nd February 28, 2026 9:00 AM Loganville Fergus Lodge No. 135 3rd March 21, 2026 10:00 AM TBD Gainesville Lodge No. 219 Statham Lodge No. 634 - [Privacy Policy](https://glofga.org/privacy/) - Privacy Policy This privacy policy describes how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you use our website and services. 1. Information We Collect We collect information that you provide directly to us, such as when you create an account, make a purchase, or contact us for support. This may include your name, - [Terms and Conditions](https://glofga.org/terms/) - Terms and Conditions Please read these terms and conditions carefully before using our website and services. 1. Acceptance of Terms By accessing and using this website, you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of this agreement. 2. Use License Permission is granted to temporarily download one copy of the materials - [](https://glofga.org/online-store-zeebro/) - [Grand Master Items for Sale](https://glofga.org/grand-master-items-for-sale/) - Below are Grand Master Shepard's items. If you would like to purchase one, contact the Grand Secretary's office by email or call 478-742-1475.Please note that credit cards can be processed by phone, and a small processing fee and shipping will be added to the transaction. Recommended products Your cart is currently empty! Browse store New - [Grand Master's Journalism Award](https://glofga.org/grand-masters-journalism-award/) - This annual award recognizes high-quality and well-written articles contributed to the Masonic Messenger by Georgia Masons. The winner shall be selected by the Grand Master after nominations by a majority vote of the members of the Publication Committee. The committee and the Messenger editor are not eligible to receive this award. The award does not - [Community Engagement Award](https://glofga.org/community-engagement-award/) - The Grand Lodge Community Engagement Award is an annual recognition presented by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. This award honors Masonic Lodges and Masons who actively contribute to their communities and engage in positive public activities. It highlights the dedication and commitment of Masonic organizations to make a meaningful impact on the - [Grand Master's Cup](https://glofga.org/grand-masters-cup/) - [Rupert H. Bramblett, PGM Award](https://glofga.org/rupert-h-bramblett-pgm-award/) - [Grand Lodge Officers](https://glofga.org/grand-lodge-officers/) - Most Worshipful Grand Master William F. Shepard (717, 214) Deputy Grand Master Brian C. Coffey (271, 749, 710) Senior Grand Warden Tom D. Bruce (42, 216) Junior Grand Warden Scott W. Johnson (68, 376) Grand Treasurer Jeffrey L. Anderson (200, 6, 376) Grand Secretary V.S. "Mac" McGee (26, 70, 753) Grand Chaplain Ronald H. Wise, - [Distinguished Service Medal Award](https://glofga.org/distinguished-service-medal/) - Distinguished Service Medals a.k.a Medals of Honor (Awarded from 1920 to 2023) Grand Master Charles Larkin Bass, in 1920, requested Robert Jesse Travis, PGM, to make five honorary presentations on behalf of the Grand Lodge. Brother Travis then addressed the Grand Lodge. Every Mason must labor without weariness and hope of any reward. This is - [Masonic Home of Georgia Happenings](https://glofga.org/masonic-home-of-georgia-happenings/) - Stay informed and connected! Download digital copies of the Masonic Home of Georgia's newsletter here and keep up with the latest updates and stories. - [Support Georgia Masons](https://glofga.org/support-georgia-masons/) - PERPETUAL MEMBERSHIP ARE YOU A PERPETUAL MEMBER? You can be. Pay just 21 times the amount of your Lodge dues, and you will never have to pay dues, ever! In addition, your Lodge will continue to receive your annual dues forever, even after your death. There is no better gift you could leave to your - [Grand Master Items Store](https://glofga.org/official-bookstore-online/) - Welcome to the Grand Master's store! Recommended products - [Shop](https://glofga.org/shop/) - [GEORGIA CHILD IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM](https://glofga.org/georgia-child-identification-program/) - A Gift From the Freemasons of GeorgiaGeorgia Masons provides the GA Child Identification Program FREE of charge as a public service and as our gift to the citizens of our state.GACHIP, the Georgia Child Identification Program, is one of the most comprehensive Child Recovery, Identification, and Abduction Awareness programs ever offered to parents in the - [Grand Lodge Office](https://glofga.org/grand-lodge-office/) - CONTACT LIST AND RESPONSIBILITIES Julie Hickman - Administrative Assistant to the Grand Secretary / Office ManagerE-mail: jhickman@glofga.orgOut-of-state transfer certificates and out-of-state certificates of good standing for plural membership, demits, requests to withdraw dual membership, out-of-state and country correspondence, district conventions, dispensations, By-Laws/Amendments, and Code Bills and Resolutions. Membership and out-of-state Years of Service Awards. Eagle Scouts Awards, - [Dewey Harold Wollstein Award](https://glofga.org/dewey-harold-wollstein-award/) - CHAPTER 9-1. AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS of The Masonic Code of The Grand Lodge of Georgia sets forth the rules dictating the Awarding of the most prestigious and highest award that can be conferred to a Member of the Masonic Fraternity - 'The Dewey Harold Wollstein Award'. This section of the code reads as follows: 9.101. - [GL Awards](https://glofga.org/gl-awards/) - Distinguished Service Medal Award Dewey Harold Wollstein Award Grand Master's Cup Rupert H. Bramblett, PGM Award Grand Master's Journalism Award Community Engagement Award - [Lodge of the Year](https://glofga.org/lodge-of-the-year/) - [Masonic Home of Georgia Charity Golf Tournament](https://glofga.org/masonic-home-of-georgia-charity-golf-tournament/) - [Contact](https://glofga.org/contact/) - Contact List and Responsibilities Julie Hickman - Administrative Assistant to the Grand Secretary / Office ManagerE-mail: jhickman@glofga.orgOut-of-state transfer certificates and out-of-state certificates of good standing for plural membership, demits, request to withdraw dual membership, out of state and country correspondence, district conventions, dispensations, By-Laws/Amendments, and Code Bills and Resolutions. Membership and out-of-state Years of Service Awards. Eagle - [How to become a Mason](https://glofga.org/how-to-become-a-mason/) - Georgia Masons are not allowed to ask anyone to join the Fraternity but are free to respond to inquiries. This is Freemasonry in Georgia When you join Freemasonry, you join a band of brothers stretching from coast to coast and beyond. Knock on any Lodge door, and you will be welcomed by men who, although - [Lodge Website Criteria](https://glofga.org/lodge-website-criteria-2/) - Download and complete the Website Application and send to Grand Lodge Office Lodge Website Application-2023Click to download in WORD format. Lodge-Website-Application-2023 Questions? Contact the Grand Lodge Office These criteria and rules are set forth by the Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free and Accepted Masons and committed to the General Welfare Committee of this Grand Lodge for - [District Map](https://glofga.org/district_map/) - THE LARGEST STATE EAST OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER GIS Map provided by R. Brian Lackey, GISP - [2022 District Conventions](https://glofga.org/2022-district-conventions/) - [Secretary Forms & Reports](https://glofga.org/secretary-forms-reports/) - Online Forms are no longer available on website, update to member record can be done on Grand View Forms to Print and Send to the Grand Lodge Office Election Return (Word Document)Election Return (PDF)Change of Address (Word Document)Application for 50 Year Award (PDF)Report of Lodge System of Masonic Education (PDF)Lodge Monthly Report (Word Document)Lodge Monthly - [2021 District Conventions](https://glofga.org/2021-district-conventions/) - [Endowment Fund Lodge Recognition Program](https://glofga.org/endowment-fund-lodge-recognition-program/) - [Masonic Children's Home](https://glofga.org/masonic-childrens-home/) - "The Heart of Georgia Masonry"... Our Children's Home Your browser does not support the video tag. Overlooking the Ocmulgee River in the city of Macon (Bibb County), Georgia is one of the most beautiful buildings in the entire state of Georgia. During the 1902 session of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, construction plans were approved - [Grand York Rite Calendar](https://glofga.org/grand-york-rite-calendar/) - [Awards and Associations](https://glofga.org/awards-and-associations/) - AWARDS Distinguished Service Medal AwardDewey Harold Wollstein AwardGrand Master's CupThe Albert F. Garner, Jr. Eagle Scout Recognition Award MEMORIAL ASSOCIATIONS Cobb County8th District - [The Albert F. Garner, Jr. Eagle Scout Recognition Award](https://glofga.org/the-albert-f-garner-jr-eagle-scout-recognition-award/) - The Eagle Scout Award is the highest rank a Scout can achieve. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than 2 million young men. The title of Eagle Scout is held for life, thus giving rise to the phrase "Once an Eagle, always an Eagle". Requirements include earning - [THE COTTAGE CAMPAIGN](https://glofga.org/the-cottage-campaign/) - The Masonic Home of Georgia is in Macon. It was built in 1903-04, and the same building is still in use today. The first children were accepted in 1905. Since that time over 2,200 have called it home. Today we have 28 children ranging in age from seven to twenty-one. There are 16 girls and - [History of Freemasonry in Georgia](https://glofga.org/history-of-freemasonry-in-georgia/) - A band of English colonists under the leadership of General James Edward Oglethorpe, British soldier, statesman and humanitarian, arrived on the west bank of the Savannah River on February 12, 1733. This was the birth of the English Province of Georgia, the last of the Thirteen Colonies. Georgia was the southwestern frontier of British America - [MASONIC MESSENGER](https://glofga.org/masonic-messenger-2/) - Download the Masonic Messenger in PDF format. If you'd like an earlier issue, please contact our Webmaster, Chris Brown 2019 February 2019April 2019June 2019August 2019October 2019 2018 February 2018April 2018June 2018October 2018December 2018 2017 February 2017June 2017October 2017December 2017 2016 February 2016April 2016June 2016August 2016October 2016 2015 February 2015April 2015June 2015August 2015October 2015December 2015 2014 February - [EVENT PHOTOS](https://glofga.org/event-photos/) - 2016 Grand Master's Forum (Savannah) - [Masonic Specialty Car Tag](https://glofga.org/masonic-specialty-car-tag/) - Georgia is joining so many other states by making a specialty tag available featuring the Square and Compasses. When you purchase, and each time you renew your Freemason tag, the Georgia Masonic Charities Foundation (which supports many youth programs and youth safety programs) will receive $10.00. Please stop by your local tag office to purchase - [APPENDANT ORGANIZATIONS NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INC.](https://glofga.org/appendant-organizations-national-sojourners-inc/) - NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INC. National Sojourners, Inc., has an unequaled military Masonic history. Born of the requirements of wartime, the Order has been nurtured by the desire of displaced military Masons to seek each other’s company, counsel, and aid. The “Purposes of National Sojourners” affirm our responsibilities to our Brothers, our Fraternity, and our Nation. Sojourner - [Perpetual Membership](https://glofga.org/perpetual-membership/) - Are you a Perpetual Member? You can be. Pay just 21 times the amount of your Lodge dues and you will never have to pay dues, ever! In addition, your Lodge will continue to received your annual dues forever, even after your death. There is no better gift that you could leave to your Lodge - [2019 DISTRICT CONVENTIONS](https://glofga.org/2019-district-conventions/) - Registration starts one (1) hour before the convention starts. DISTRICTTIMELOCATIONHOST LODGE1st DistrictMarch 23, 201910:00 AMSylvaniaScreven County Shrine ClubSylvania Lodge #3012nd DistrictApril 6, 20199:00 AMBlakelyMagnolia Lodge #863rd DistrictMarch 16, 20199:00 AMButlerFickling Lodge #1294th DistrictAugust 17, 20199:45 AMNewnanCoweta Lodge #605th DistrictSeptember 14, 201910:00 AMAtlantaAtlanta Masonic Center6th DistrictMay 4, 20199:00 AMGriffinMeridian Sun Lodge #70Hampton Lodge #707th DistrictMay 10 - [Masonic Principles](https://glofga.org/masonic-principles/) - "Freemasonry is a charitable, benevolent, educational and religious society. Its principles are proclaimed as widely as men will hear. Its only secrets are in its methods of recognition and of symbolic instruction. It is charitable in that it is not organized for profit and none of its income insures to the benefit of any individual, - [Grand Lodge](https://glofga.org/grand-lodge/) - [Lodge Directory](https://glofga.org/lodge-directory/) - [District Deputies to the Grand Mater](https://glofga.org/district-deputies-to-the-grand-mater/) - Download - [Statement of Sovereignty](https://glofga.org/statement-of-sovereignty/) - Statement_of_Sovereignty-1Download - [Grand View Member Registration Video](https://glofga.org/grand-view-member-registration-video/) - [UPCOMING EVENTS](https://glofga.org/upcoming-events/) - 233RD ANNUAL COMMUNICATION The 233rd Annual Communication will be held October 22nd and 23rd at the Macon Centerplex. Registration opens at 7:00 A.M.The Tommy Irvin cookout will be held October 22nd at the Macon Farmers Market at 6:00 P.M. ROAST FOR DEPUTY GRAND MASTER, BROTHER JOHNIE M. GARMON All Brethren and their ladies from the - [SECRETARY FORMS AND REPORTS](https://glofga.org/secretary-forms-and-reports/) - FORMS ONLINE Election Report - Online FormLodge Monthly Report - Online Form FORMS TO PRINT AND SEND TO THE GRAND LODGE OFFICE Election Return (Word Document)Election Return (PDF)Change of Address (Word Document)Application for 50 Year Award (PDF)Report of Lodge System of Masonic Education (PDF)Lodge Monthly Report (Word Document)Lodge Monthly Report (PDF) - [LODGE WEBSITE CRITERIA](https://glofga.org/lodge-website-criteria/) - Download and complete the Website Application and send to: Grand Lodge Webmaster Website Application Questions? Contact the Grand Lodge Webmaster These criteria and rules are set forth by the Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free and Accepted Masons and committed to the General Welfare Committee of this Grand Lodge for execution. A Subordinate Lodge, District, and or Masonic - [MASONIC EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTORS 2019](https://glofga.org/masonic-education-and-leadership-development-directors-2019/) - STATE DIRECTOR Wiley Q. Forrester, III (292)4251 Autumn Lake DrBuford, GA 30519Phone: (678) 925-9333meldstatedir@gmail.com ASSISTANT STATE DIRECTOR Randy D Payne (66) 7-B118 Sagewood Dr. NWRome, GA 30165Home: (706) 295-7441Cell: (770) 547-7231Rpayne-pm66@comcast.net FIRST DISTRICT 1-A1-B1-C1-D1-EJay Johnson405 Cambridge CtHinesville, GA 31313Phone: (912)610-3701OpenOpenMike Nichols (54)PO Box 60254Savannah, GA 31420Cell: (912) 313-3474E-mail: Clinton_54@comcast.netKeny Drescher (693), Chairman1116 Kolic Helmey RdGuyton, GA - [THE GRAND LODGE OF GEORGIA MELD COMMITTEE MASONIC SELF-STUDY COURSES](https://glofga.org/the-grand-lodge-of-georgia-meld-committee-masonic-self-study-courses/) - MASONIC SELF-STUDY COURSES Except “Rules of Order” and "The Symbolism of the Three Degrees", all required study material can be obtained from your Lodge library or purchased directly from the Grand Secretary through your Lodge's Secretary. A ‘Rules of Order’ study material pdf file can be downloaded by clicking on the ‘Rules of Order Study - [GOVERNOR SIGNS TAG BILL](https://glofga.org/governor-signs-tag-bill/) - Georgia Governor, Nathan Deal signs the Masonic Tag Bill. The funds raised by tag sales will go to Masonic Charities. - [MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAMS](https://glofga.org/miscellaneous-programs/) - THE ALBERT F. GARNER, JR. EAGLE SCOUT RECOGNITION AWARD The Eagle Scout Award is the highest rank a Scout can achieve. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than 2 million young men. The title of Eagle Scout is held for life, thus giving rise to the phrase - [Past Grand Masters](https://glofga.org/past-grand-masters/) - [My Bookings](https://glofga.org/events/my-bookings/) - CONTENTS - [Tags](https://glofga.org/events/tags/) - CONTENTS - [Categories](https://glofga.org/events/categories/) - CONTENTS - [Locations](https://glofga.org/events/locations/) - CONTENTS - [Events](https://glofga.org/events/) - CONTENTS - [Member Information](https://glofga.org/member-information/) - [Philanthropy](https://glofga.org/philanthropy/) ## Products - [GM Bill Shepard Dress Tie](https://glofga.org/product/gm-bill-shepard-dress-tie/) - [Framed Masonic Declaration Signers Poster (Pick-up Only)](https://glofga.org/product/framed-masonic-declaration-signers-poster/) - Must pick up from the Grand Lodge Office: Celebrate 250 years of liberty with this amazing poster featuring the Grand Lodge seal and signers of the Declartion of Independence who were Freemasons. - [Challenge Coin Display](https://glofga.org/product/challenge-coin-display/) - A beautiful set of Grand Master Bill Shepard's coins in a felt black box. - [Unframed Masonic Declaration Signers Poster](https://glofga.org/product/masonic-declaration-signers-poster/) - Celebrate 250 years of liberty with this amazing poster featuring the Grand Lodge seal and signers of the Declartion of Independence who were Freemasons. Choose your own frame as this comes as a rolled-up heavy-duty paper only version. - [Commemorative Coin](https://glofga.org/product/250-year-commemorative-coin/) - New commemorative coin celebrating 250 years since the birth of our nation and 240 years since the chartering of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons for the State of Georgia. - [GM Bill Shepard Bolo Tie](https://glofga.org/product/gm-bill-shepard-bolo-tie/) - [GM Bill Shepard Knife and Commemorative Case](https://glofga.org/product/gm-bill-shepard-knife-and-commemorative-case/) ## Galleries - [Past Grand Masters](https://glofga.org/rl_gallery/past-grand-masters/) - [First Row](https://glofga.org/rl_gallery/first-row/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://glofga.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Shrine](https://glofga.org/category/shrine/) - [Masonic Leadership](https://glofga.org/category/masonic-leadership/) - [Education](https://glofga.org/category/education/) ## Product categories - [GL Issued](https://glofga.org/product-category/publication/gl-issued/) - [Publication](https://glofga.org/product-category/publication/)