06/24/2026
A very blessed St. John’s Day to you all.
Once again, we arrive at that special time of year when we honor St. John the Baptist, one of the Patron Saints of Freemasonry. The other St. John’s Day, celebrated in December, honors St. John the Evangelist. Together, these two saints stand as enduring symbols within our Craft.
Today also marks two other significant occasions.
First, it is the Summer Solstice—the moment when summer truly begins and the day reaches its greatest length. From this point forward, each day will carry just a little less sunlight until we arrive at the Winter Solstice and the cycle begins anew. For those who follow astrology, the Summer Solstice also marks 0 degrees Cancer, the Crab. As a water sign, Cancer is associated with emotions, intuition, and the deeper currents of human feeling.
Second, today is recognized as the birthday of modern Freemasonry.
On June 24, 1717, four London lodges gathered at the Goose and Gridiron Alehouse and formed the first Grand Lodge. From that historic meeting emerged the first Grand Master, Anthony Sayer, and a new chapter in Masonic history began.
It is interesting that Freemasonry connects St. John the Baptist with the Summer Solstice.
A brief look at John's life reveals some fascinating connections. His mother, Elizabeth, was related to Mary, the mother of Jesus. John was born approximately six months before Jesus and spent much of his life in the wilderness preaching repentance and preparing the way for the coming Messiah. His ministry was devoted to directing attention away from himself and toward a greater Light. Ultimately, his life ended in martyrdom when King Herod made a rash promise that led to John's ex*****on.
As I write this, we've already touched upon the Summer Solstice and the physical light of the sun reaching its highest point. But what else have we touched upon?
St. John the Baptist proclaimed to the world the coming of the Messiah, representing spiritual light. In Christian symbolism, Christ is often associated with the Sun as well as the Son of God. The prophet Malachi writes, “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays” (Malachi 4:2).
Then we have the founding of the Grand Lodge in 1717, which represents another form of illumination—philosophical light. The pursuit of wisdom, understanding, and self-improvement lies at the very heart of Freemasonry.
When we consider all three together, we find something profound:
The Summer Solstice reminds us of physical light.
St. John the Baptist points us toward spiritual light.
Freemasonry encourages philosophical light.
Together they reflect the threefold nature of humanity: body, soul, and mind.
Today and throughout the coming days, many Brothers will gather around festive boards to celebrate St. John’s Day. While not quite a traditional festive board, I will be spending this evening with several Brothers at a local restaurant as we conduct an investigating committee meeting. Fellowship, conversation, and shared purpose remain among the greatest joys of our fraternity.
But knowing what we know about St. John’s Day and the symbolism of increasing light, how do we apply these lessons in our daily lives, both inside and outside the Lodge?
Perhaps by striving to become a source of light ourselves.
We can brighten someone's day through a simple act of kindness. We can sit and listen when someone needs to be heard. We can offer encouragement, prayer, or support. We can engage in thoughtful conversation that leads to greater understanding—both for ourselves and for others.
In doing so, we become participants in all three forms of light: physical through our actions, spiritual through our compassion, and philosophical through our pursuit of truth and wisdom.
As the sun reaches its height and the warmth of summer surrounds us, remember to stay grounded. Be present. Enjoy the moment. Share a little warmth wherever you can.
And, taking a lesson from St. John himself, try not to lose your head.
Happy St. John’s Day, my Brothers.
I love you and may we govern ourselves accordingly
