Valley of Portland Scottish Rite

10/25/2026

Freemasonry has deep roots in Maine—stretching back to a time before Maine was even a state.

From the establishment of early Lodges in communities such as Machias, Wiscasset, Castine, and Hallowell to prominent Maine Masons who helped shape both the fraternity and the state, Maine's Masonic history is filled with notable people and milestones.

Take a look back at some of the early leaders, Lodges, and events that helped establish the Masonic tradition we continue today.

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https://valleyofportland.org/early-history-of-freemasons-in-maine/

10/21/2026

Halloween should be fun for every child, but costumes, crowds, loud decorations, and even the tradition of trick-or-treating can be challenging for some children.

A little patience and kindness can make a big difference. From welcoming trick-or-treaters without expecting them to speak or perform to considering children with allergies or sensory sensitivities, there are simple ways we can help make Halloween more enjoyable for everyone.

It’s also an opportunity to put the Masonic value of Brotherly Love into practice within our own neighborhoods and communities.

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https://valleyofportland.org/how-freemasons-can-be-especially-kind-to-children-at-halloween/

10/18/2026

Sometimes making a difference in someone’s life starts with something simple—a phone call, a ride to an appointment, help around the house, or just taking the time to visit.

For Freemasons, service to seniors is an opportunity to put Brotherly Love and community service into practice while building meaningful connections across generations.

This article shares practical ways Masons can support older Mainers, help combat loneliness and isolation, and strengthen the communities we call home.

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https://valleyofportland.org/service-to-seniors-how-freemasons-can-build-generational-bonds/

10/14/2026

How do you explain what Freemasonry means to someone who has never experienced it?

For many Masons, the best place to start isn’t with a sales pitch—it’s sharing the values —brotherhood, personal growth, and commitment to community — that make the Masonic experience meaningful.

This article explores practical ways Masons can introduce others to Freemasonry and help men who share those values learn more about the Craft.

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https://valleyofportland.org/how-to-promote-freemasonry-to-friends-and-other-prospects/

10/11/2026

What do 15 U.S. presidents have in common? They were Freemasons.

From George Washington and James Monroe to Theodore Roosevelt and Gerald Ford, Freemasonry has attracted American leaders from different generations and backgrounds.

What drew these men to the fraternity? This article explores the Masonic values of leadership, education, human rights, service, integrity, and personal responsibility—and how those principles intersected with their lives in public service.

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https://valleyofportland.org/why-15-u-s-presidents-were-freemason

10/07/2026

Being a good role model isn’t about being perfect. It’s about how we show up for the people around us.

For Masons, the principles of integrity, responsibility, service, and leadership provide a foundation for setting a positive example—not only within the fraternity, but for our families, workplaces, and communities.

So, how are you doing? This checklist offers an opportunity for reflection and a reminder that becoming a better man is an ongoing process.

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https://valleyofportland.org/are-you-a-good-role-model-a-checklist-for-masons/

10/06/2026

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Subscribe to our email list to receive upcoming events, Valley news, Masonic education, articles, and other updates delivered directly to your inbox.

Whether you’re a member of the Scottish Rite, a fellow Mason, or simply interested in learning more about the Valley of Portland, our emails are an easy way to stay informed.

Use the link below to sign up. 👇

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10/04/2026

What do Shaquille O’Neal, John Elway, Tim Horton, and Sugar Ray Robinson have in common beyond remarkable careers in sports?

Each has a connection to Freemasonry, and their stories demonstrate values that extend far beyond athletic achievement—from charity and community involvement to kindness, compassion, and giving back.

Take a look at several notable athletes and the Masonic values reflected in their lives on and off the field, court, rink, and ring.

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https://valleyofportland.org/great-mason-athletes-of-the-20th-and-21st-centuries/

10/01/2026

Freemasonry has been around for centuries—and so have many of the myths and misconceptions surrounding it.

Do Freemasons discuss politics and religion in Lodge? Is Freemasonry itself a religion? Are there really secret Masonic symbols on the U.S. dollar bill?

This article takes on five common myths about Freemasonry and separates fact from fiction.

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Unfortunately, there are many myths about Freemasons. To counter this misinformation, here are 5 common myths and misperceptions about Freemasons—and the truth regarding each.

09/30/2026

Looking for an approachable way to learn more about Freemasonry?

“Freemasons for Dummies” by Christopher L. Hodapp covers everything from what it takes to become a Mason and how Lodges operate to Masonic philosophy, charity, history, and some of the myths and conspiracy theories surrounding the fraternity.

Whether you’re a newer Mason or simply interested in learning more about the Craft, this 5-minute book review offers a look at why the book has become a widely recommended introduction to Freemasonry.

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https://valleyofportland.org/5-minute-book-review-freemasons-for-dummies/