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What really happens when you join the Freemasons? Forget everything you've seen in The Simpsons or read in conspiracy theories—this episode takes you behind the veil through the eyes of Yotti, a Fellow Craft who joined just over a year ago.

The transformation from outsider to brother proves more profound than our guest ever imagined. "All these strangers, many retired longer than I've been alive, coming up to me, welcoming me as if I'd been part of the family the whole time," he shares, describing the genuine brotherhood that stands in stark contrast to the superficial connections that dominate modern life. His initiation night ranks among "the nights of my life"—an experience he returned home from "beaming, buzzing" with excitement that kept him wide awake.

Family reactions reveal another dimension of the Masonic journey. From his Greek Orthodox grandmother's initial concern to his partner's hesitation about something significant happening in his life that she couldn't access, Yotti candidly discusses navigating these relationships while embracing his new path. Over time, witnessing positive changes has transformed scepticism into support.

Perhaps most surprising is Yotti's discovery of Freemasonry's charitable work—something completely absent from public perception. "I had absolutely no idea about anything to do with Freemasonry and charities and scholarships," he admits, contrasting sharply with the reality of millions donated annually. Meanwhile, the intergenerational mentorship from brothers in their 80s and 90s provides wisdom rarely accessible in today's age-segregated world.

For young men seeking meaning and growth in an increasingly disconnected society, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into what might be the world's most misunderstood brotherhood. Listen now and discover why Yotti calls joining "one of the best decisions I've made in my adult life."

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What happens when ancient traditions meet modern challenges? Worshipful Brother Arvind Masilamani takes us on a fascinating journey spanning continents and cultures, revealing how Freemasonry bridges worlds while staying true to its core values.

Growing up in Chennai, India, eight-year-old Arvind first glimpsed Freemasonry through his father's monthly ritual of donning formal attire before disappearing to mysterious meetings. This childhood curiosity would eventually lead him to join the craft after relocating to New Zealand in the 1980s, where he discovered both similarities and striking differences between Masonic practices across hemispheres.

Arvind's unique perspective, shaped by growing up in India's rich cultural tapestry with its 546 languages and diverse religious traditions, offers profound insights into Freemasonry's principle of tolerance. "You tend to learn to become very tolerant," he explains, describing how this multicultural upbringing prepared him perfectly for Masonic life in New Zealand, where he was often the only non-European face in his lodge for many years.

As both a Worshipful Master and Grand Steward, Arvid shares candid observations about the challenges facing modern Freemasonry. While membership in New Zealand has plummeted from 45,000 to under 5,000, lodges in India continue to thrive through stronger social connections and community involvement. His recent decision to join the Canterbury Masonic Charitable Trust reflects his vision for revitalising the craft through meaningful community service that appeals to younger generations seeking purpose beyond ritual.

Throughout our conversation, Arvind weaves together thoughtful reflections on cultural identity, organisational adaptation, and the delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing change. His story reminds us that Freemasonry's greatest strength may lie in its ability to unite diverse individuals through shared values while respecting their differences.

Connect with fellow Freemasons across New Zealand by downloading the Masonica app today and join the conversation about the future of the craft.

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Freemasonry operates on the principle of meeting “on the level and parting on the square”, a powerful metaphor for universal equality, transcending background, race, or social standing. But this isn’t just philosophical, it’s ritualised. It’s something we do, not just something we say. It’s reflected in the very layout of the lodge room, where the checkered pavement reminds us of life’s duality, light and dark, joy and sorrow, ignorance and enlightenment. But more than that, it speaks to unity: two sides of the same coin, bound together in balance.

We have witnessed this unity in the simple but profound act of mentorship, the passing down of knowledge, experience, and wisdom from one brother to another. It’s a tradition as old as time itself, shared across all cultures and languages. And that’s the heart of this episode: exploring how diversity strengthens the Craft, enriches our lodges, and deepens our understanding of what it means to be a Freemason.

Today, we’ll be viewing these themes through a unique lens, the Filipino Masonic experience here in Aotearoa. We're proud to be joined by Worshipful Brother Jun Lobido, the current Master of The Lodge of Progress No. 22, and a pillar of Christchurch’s vibrant Filipino Masonic community. Together, we’ll explore the shared values, cultural differences, and unifying power of Freemasonry that brings us all to labour on the level.

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