A Place of Tradition, Brotherhood, and Personal Growth

Freemasonry is a timeless fraternity where men of good character come together in friendship, learning, and service.
Discover how you can become part of something bigger. For men residing in the Greater Pittsburgh area who are interested in joining Freemasonry, learn about the Masonic organizations who call the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center home right here.

Discover the values, purpose, and traditions of our fraternity, find answers to your questions and apply to join.
Speak with a Masonic representative to explore membership.

Tour our historic center – home to several local lodges and appendant bodies – and meet with local Freemasons.

Why Join Freemasonry?

A Brotherhood Like No Other

Connect with like-minded men dedicated to self-improvement and mutual support.

Rich History & Tradition

Become part of a centuries-old fraternity that promotes personal growth, ethics, and leadership.

Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth

Engage in thought-provoking discussions and symbolic teachings.

Service & Charity

Make a difference in your community through Masonic-led charitable efforts.

A Global Network

Gain access to a worldwide fraternity with members in nearly every country.

What are the Basics of Freemasonry?

Find answers to your general questions about Freemasonry at the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

What are some of the Key Features of being a Freemason at the GPMC?

01

Multiple Masonic Organizations

02

Meetings & Events

03

Mentorship & Support

04

Community Involvement

05

Exclusive Access to GPMC

What Masonic bodies reside at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center?

Lodge 45

Lodge 45 was founded in 1785 and is the oldest masonic lodge west of the Alleghenies. As one of the lodges meeting at the GPMC, Lodge 45 continues the Masonic tradition of fostering brotherhood and community service.

Franklin/St. John's/Trinity Lodge No. 221

This lodge represents a consolidation of historic lodges, emphasizing Masonic teachings and community involvement.

Dallas Lodge No. 231

Our organization was constituted on July 5, 1872, as Dallas Lodge No. 508 and which merged with Solomon Lodge No. 231 on December 7, 2005, to become Dallas Lodge No. 231.  We are a fraternal organization that is dedicated to supporting the causes of charity, truth, and loving kindness together.

Corinthian Lodge No. 573

Corinthian Lodge No. 573 focuses on the personal development of its members and charitable activities within the community.

Chartiers Valley Lodge No. 725

Chartiers Valley Lodge No. 725 was constituted on October 4, 1023, and celebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2023. Currently, with 170 dues paying members our small lodge contributes annually to worthy charitable causes as they can.

Perry-Ionic Lodge No. 796

Perry-Ionic Lodge No. 796 resulted from the merger of Ionic Lodge No. 525, which was constituted on November 10, 1873 and Perry Lodge No. 796, which was constituted on November 3, 1962, forming Perry-Ionic Lodge on December 27, 1983.

Lodge Ad Lucem No. 812

The name Ad Lucem means “To The Light” and describes our collective journey toward greater knowledge and understanding through Freemasonry.

Our organizing principles include: an initiatic focus, a high level of commitment by members and candidates, thoughtful and well-researched presentations, slow and careful advancement, and an atmosphere that promotes fraternal unity in our common pursuit of virtue.

The Lodge was constituted on September 25th, 2007 at The Pittsburgh Athletic Association.

Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh

32° Scottish Rite Freemasonry is a fraternity of Brothers committed to going deeper into the highest principles, teachings, and ideals of the Masonic craft. It is open to all Master Masons looking to continue the journey of self-discovery and finding a deeper sense of purpose.

Islam Grotto M.O.V.P.E.R.

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, whose subordinate bodies are called “Grottoes,” is an organization for Master Masons. While not connected with Masonry proper, its membership is restricted absolutely and exclusively to Master Masons in good standing. Although it is primarily an organization for good, wholesome fun and frolic, it also has its serious side. Its slogan is “Good Fellowship.

Mt. Moriah Council No. 2

Council of Royal and Select Master Masons within the York Rite focus on the degrees of Royal and Select Masters, exploring the construction of Solomon’s Temple and the preservation of its secrets. As part of the York Rite, Mt. Moriah Council No. 2 confers degrees that delve deeper into Masonic teachings, focusing on the preservation and transmission of Masonic knowledge.

Pittsburgh Commandery No. 1

The Grand Pittsburgh Commandery No. 1 of the Knights Templar of PA was formed in 1847 to promote, maintain and perpetuate the high ideals of Freemasonry and to support through charity Masonic-related Youth Groups, Knight Templar Eye Foundation and the Knights Templar Education Foundation.

Zerrubabel-Duquesne Royal Arch Chapter No. 162

This chapter is part of the Royal Arch Masons, which is a segment of the York Rite. It focuses on the teachings and principles that complete the Master Mason degree, emphasizing the discovery of lost Masonic knowledge. Royal Arch Chapters confer degrees that delve into the restoration of Solomon’s Temple and the discovery of lost Masonic knowledge.

Learn about the founding and legacy of the GPMC and significance of Freemasonry in Pittsburgh:

Questions About Genealogy or Masonic Memorabilia?

Genealogy & Family History Requests

It is rare that we can personally help people with these requests unless they actually know what lodge and that that lodge meets here. Please direct any requests concerning Masonic genealogy & family history to: https://pagrandlodge.org/

Masonic Memorabilia Question

Do you have an item of Masonic memorabilia that you are interested in donating? Please direct any requests concerning Masonic memorabilia to us via our contact page.

Freemasonry at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center - Frequently Asked Questions

For those interested in learning about or joining Freemasonry.

1. Understanding Freemasonry

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization dedicated to personal growth, moral development, and charitable service.
No. Freemasonry is not a religion but requires members to believe in a Supreme Being. It welcomes men of all faiths.
Masons engage in self-improvement, brotherhood, philanthropy, and educational activities through rituals, social gatherings, and community service.

2. Membership & Joining Process

Men 18 years or older who believe in a Supreme Being and seek self-improvement can apply.

The first step is to ask a Mason or submit an inquiry via the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

No. Freemasonry is open to all qualified men, regardless of family background.
Yes, there are initiation fees and annual dues, which vary by lodge.

3. Lodge Activities & Structure

Meetings include ritual work, discussions on personal growth, charity planning, and social engagement.

Degrees are symbolic lessons in moral and philosophical teachings presented in a ceremonial format.

GPMC is home to numerous Masonic blue lodges, Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh, Royal Arch, and the Islam Grotto. Additionally, there are a multitude of associated masonic bodies including Oddfellows and OES.

4. Freemasonry & the Community

Masons support local scholarships, children’s hospitals, food drives, and community aid initiatives.

Freemasonry is not a secret society – our charitable work and community impact are well known. However, some traditions and rituals are private.

Yes! You can attend an open house or public event to meet members and learn more. You may also inquire here.

Are you Interested in learning more about becoming a Freemason? Visit the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.