Grand Lodge of NH, F&AM
Social Media and New Hampshire Freemasons
The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire recognizes that the use of social media is growing by leaps and bounds and its goal is to support the regular and extensive use of it. We understand that many Brethren are now connected by Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others. We as Masons are to be mindful however that our individual postings not only reflect our own character but that of Freemasonry.
Social Media Policy
- A Mason should conduct himself as he would in front of the general public with courtesy for others.
- As a Mason, he must be aware that his postings are a permanent record; therefore, his conduct may influence the world with a positive or negative opinion about him personally and about the organizations to which he belongs.
- A Mason should never use disparaging comments, profanity, etc. while posting; including, but not limited to graphic video and audio recordings.
- A Mason should be mindful of “ritual” postings on the web.
- Masonic pages are to be supportive of the organization and its members, promote upcoming events, discussion of past events, video sharing, and discussion of times of fellowship and promotion of Masonic bodies.
- A Mason should not use Social media to obtain personal advantage in promoting political, religious or business activities by targeting other Masons.
- There should never be discussion regarding an application, background, or investigation of an applicant.
- There should never be discussion regarding the ballot of a candidate.
- There should never be discussion related to the Business of a Lodge and what is discussed behind Tyled doors.
- Information about Lodge or District social activities must comply with the regulations already in place for them (for example no reference to alcohol or games of chance).
- It is the expectation that PRIVATE Masonic groups on Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.) are open to Masons ONLY from New Hampshire or Jurisdictions recognized by the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. It is therefore understood that any administrator(s) of such groups properly verify that any members admitted to such PRIVATE Masonic Social Media Group(s) are Masons in Good Standing of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire or some recognized Jurisdiction. Any posts in these group will be Masonically appropriate and follow the guidelines outlined in this Social Media policy.
We should seek Brother to Brother intervention. As a Mason you should advise a brother if something he has posted is improper within the framework of our Grand Constitution, Rules and Regulations, etc.
Ultimately, your actions as a Mason on these Social media sites should promote the highest standards of morality and integrity. You should always be mindful of the penalties as described in the Grand Constitution relating to trial, suspension, and/or expulsion for any un-Masonic behavior. Posting a comment related to the Fraternity and then posting a disparaging comment about a social or political stance can easily be misconstrued by readers that your stance is representative of Masonry and all Masons. Be mindful that the public and members of the Masonic Fraternity are reading your posts on Social Media.
Revised on August 1, 2020