What is Masonry?
Masonry (also known as Freemasonry) is the world's first and largest fraternal organization. It is a brotherhood of like-minded men who genuinely care about each other. We develop lifelong friendships with fellow Masons and their families, and are welcomed at Masonic lodges throughout the United States and the world.
 OUR MISSION
​The mission of the Masons of California is to foster personal growth and improve the lives of others.
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Our mission is guided by the enduring and relevant principles of our fraternity:
  • Brotherly love. We value respect, freedom, kindness, tolerance, and our differences - religious, ethnic, cultural, social, generational, and educational - and strive for harmony in our individual lives, in our lodges, and in the global community.
  • Relief. We take responsibility for the well-being of our brothers, our families, and the community as a whole. We provide relief through philanthropy, community involvement, and delivery of excellent care.
  • Truth. We stay true to our personal code of conduct and ethics - honor, integrity, personal responsibility, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.
TRESTLEBOARD
We’re excited to present our most recent bimonthly  Trestleboard.  You can view/download the Trestleboard by clicking the link below.

REWARDS OF BEING A FREEMASON

MAKING TRUE FRIENDS
Masonry is a community of men and their families who share similar beliefs and values. The fraternity finds it important to connect with other men of honor, compassion, love, trust, and knowledge, regardless of their race, color, religious beliefs, political views, sexual orientation, physical ability, citizenship or national origin. We are friends and brothers, and are connected through this vital and uplifting organization of moral men.
IMPROVING OURSELVES
​Our continuing pursuit of truth, knowledge, ethics, and leadership skills makes us better men and brings more meaning to our lives. Learning the tenets of Freemasonry, paired with being an active part of our community, gives us the opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills, and builds self-discipline through commitment and self-confidence.
HAVING AN IMPACT
​As a member of the Freemasons, the Grand Lodge of California, and Sunnyside Lodge #577, we are a part of a worldwide organization that values tradition, history, and timeless wisdom. The traditions and core values of our fraternity are meaningful today and will endure for centuries to come because of our direct impact in our community, through our charities, and on a personal level.

​Applying

​Applying for membership

One of Masonry’s customs is not to solicit members; men must seek membership on their own through a Mason they know or a local lodge.

A Mason who recommends you for membership will assist with completing and submitting the application. After submitting the application, you will be interviewed by members of the lodge you wish to join so they can learn more about you and you can learn more about Freemasonry. If the interview is favorable, your application is presented to the lodge for a vote. If the vote is affirmative, you receive the Entered Apprentice degree - the first degree of Freemasonry. When you advance through the next two degrees, you are a Master Mason and a full member of the fraternity.
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For more information about the application process, go to Applicant Information.

How to apply

If you are interested in submitting an application, and you meet the general requirements for membership (see above), you may contact a lodge near your home or work.

Use the Lodge Locator to find the California lodge nearest you. Many lodges have their own websites that highlight their members, activities, and community involvement.

If you are a California resident and would like to be referred to a lodge, please complete the request for information form and someone will contact you regarding membership.

JOIN US

Sunnyside Lodge membership is open to men 18 and older who meet the qualifications and standards of character and intention, and who believe in a Supreme Being.  Men of all ethnic and religious backgrounds are welcome. One of Freemasonry’s customs is not to solicit members – men must seek membership on their own initiative. Anyone is welcome to request information about the fraternity. If you are interested in applying for membership to our lodge, now is a good time to start.  Please contact us to schedule a visit during an event, or request more information.
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​Learn more about Freemasonry at the Masons of California website.
LINKS TO OTHER LODGES