By Edgardo Gonzalez Lopez

Worshipful Master

Founding a new Masonic lodge is a rare honor—and a big challenge. It means starting entirely from scratch: pooling initial funds, navigating legal frameworks, and gathering a dedicated group of Brothers ready to pour their time, energy, and heart into an idea.

In 2023, that idea materialized when the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island granted our charter, making Libertad Lodge No. 50 the newest lodge in our jurisdiction, as well as the very first Spanish-speaking lodge in the state. But as any Brother knows, reaching that milestone is not the finish line—it is where the real work begins.

Like many lodges, Libertad faces common hurdles: attracting new members, retaining existing ones, fundraising, and so on. Yet, our greatest journey has been discovering and shaping our identity.

Beyond Language: Building Blocks of an Identity

Contrary to what one might assume, our identity isn’t defined solely by speaking Spanish. It runs much deeper.

Libertad Lodge is built upon several foundational pillars, such as cultural diversity, with multiple vibrant cultures converging under a single roof, a deep-rooted value placed on family bonds, and adaptability – the shared experience of adapting to a new society and, through it, expanding our understanding of the world.

However, the key building block of our identity stems from a unique place: many of us were raised in a different tradition of Freemasonry.

Bridging Two Great Masonic Traditions

In many Grand Jurisdictions of Spanish America, Freemasonry developed along the lines of the "French branch," where the first three degrees are practiced under rituals rooted in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. In these lodges, meetings are rich with discussions on philosophy, history, and symbolic interpretation. While American Freemasonry emphasizes the tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, the French tradition instills Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity from the moment an Entered Apprentice is initiated.

Neither branch is inherently superior—each comes with its own challenges and merits. But the philosophical focus of the French tradition produces remarkable outcomes. I have seen Brothers who grow into thought leaders, breaking free from mental constraints and learning tolerance for opposing viewpoints. 

I have seen firsthand how this type of Masonry ignites an appetite for learning. Members who never imagined doing so find themselves exploring social sciences—philosophy, economics, law, comparative religion—while others venture into natural sciences like astronomy, physics, biology, and chemistry.

Syncretism: The Cornerstone of Thoughtful Liberty

At Libertad Lodge No. 50, we are bringing the best of both worlds together—blending the rich philosophical tradition of the French tradition with the strong community principles of the English/American tradition.

This tendency to combine disparate elements to create something richer and more harmonious is deeply ingrained in Hispanic culture. This syncretism is the heart of our identity, and it serves as the cornerstone upon which every member honors our name: Liberty of Thought.

This syncretism can’t just be described; it is lived, felt, and shared. If you are curious about our unique blend of traditions, or eager to learn more about our vibrant community, our doors are open. 

Join us for an evening of warm fellowship, engaging discourse, and fraternity that transcends borders and languages. Experience firsthand how two great traditions converge to shape the exciting future of Libertad Lodge No. 50!

Libertad Lodge No. 50 meets on the first Saturday of each month (except July and August). More information at https://logialibertad.com/