Why Your Lodge Should Consider Using Signal https://signal.org/ Good communication is one of the keys to a successful lodge. Officers need to stay in touch, committees need to share information, and members appreciate timely reminders about meetings and events. Today, most of that communication happens on our phones. Many people use regular text messages or social media apps to stay connected. While those options are convenient, they are not always the best choice when it comes to privacy. That is where Signal stands out. Signal is a free messaging app available for both Apple and Android devices, as well as Windows and Mac computers. It has earned a strong reputation for protecting the privacy of its users and keeping conversations secure. Private Conversations The biggest advantage of Signal is that every message is protected with end-to-end encryption. That means only the people involved in the conversation can read the messages. Even the company that operates Signal cannot see what is being sent. While there is very little Masonic business that should ever be considered secret, there are many conversations that are simply meant to stay within the lodge. Planning degree work, discussing committee business, coordinating charity events, or reminding officers about upcoming meetings are all examples of information that should remain among those involved. It Does Not Track You Many popular messaging apps collect information about their users. They may keep records of contacts, locations, browsing habits, or other personal data. Signal was designed differently. The app collects very little information and does not build advertising profiles or sell user data. It exists to provide secure communication, not to make money from its users. That approach fits well with the values of honesty, trust, and respect that we try to practice every day. No Advertisements One thing you will notice about Signal is what is missing. There are no advertisements, no sponsored posts, and no distractions. When you open the app, you simply see your conversations. It is clean, easy to use, and focused on communication. Organize Groups Easily Signal makes it easy to create private groups for different purposes. A lodge might have separate groups for: Lodge Officers Trustees Degree Team Building Committee Charity Committee Scholarship Committee Event Planning Keeping these conversations separate helps everyone stay organized and makes it easier to find information when it is needed. Voice and Video Calls Sometimes a quick phone call is easier than sending several messages. Signal includes encrypted voice and video calling at no cost. If an officer is traveling or cannot attend a planning meeting in person, joining by phone or video is simple and secure. Share Documents and Photos Signal allows members to send files directly through the app. Items such as agendas, flyers, meeting notices, budgets, or event photos can all be shared with the appropriate group. Everything stays together in one conversation instead of being scattered across email chains and text messages. Extra Security Features Signal also includes several features that help protect your information. Members can lock the app with Face ID, Touch ID, or a PIN. Message previews can be hidden from the phone’s lock screen, and the app can be set to disappear from the recent apps list until it is unlocked. Another useful option is disappearing messages. This feature automatically removes messages after a set amount of time. It works well for temporary conversations such as dinner counts, practice reminders, or event coordination. Official lodge records should always remain with the Secretary, but not every reminder needs to be stored forever. Easy for Everyone Perhaps the best feature of Signal is how simple it is to use. If you know how to send a text message, you already know most of what you need to use Signal. The app is familiar, easy to learn, and available on nearly every modern device. How a Lodge Can Use It Signal is not meant to replace official records, minutes, or emails sent by the Secretary. Instead, it is a tool that helps officers and members communicate more efficiently. It works well for: Meeting reminders Degree practice schedules Committee discussions Charity event planning Volunteer coordination Last-minute announcements Funeral notifications Community service projects Having one secure place for these conversations helps reduce confusion and keeps everyone informed. Final Thoughts Freemasonry has always adapted to new tools that help good men work together more effectively. We still value our traditions, but there is nothing wrong with using modern technology to improve communication. Signal is free, easy to use, and widely recognized as one of the most secure messaging apps available. It allows lodge officers and committees to communicate quickly while protecting their privacy and keeping conversations organized. For any lodge looking for a better way to stay connected, Signal is well worth considering.
2026 Grand Master’s One-Day Class LOCATION: 836 N. Market Avenue, Canton, Ohio ATTIRE: Business casual. Short sleeve collared shirts and slacks. (Please no shorts) The Cathedral room of the Temple is not air conditioned, so we want you to be as comfortable as possible. REGISTRATION: 7:30AM 7:30AM – Registration just inside the entrance to the temple. Bring Your Own Apron! Mentors/Master Craftsmen and Observers please have your Grand Lodge Dues cards with you. A digital Dues Card can be obtained on your GL Grand View page. If your Lodge has sent you with payments for registration, there will be a separate table set up for collecting payments. DOUGHNUTS AND COFFEE: 8:00AM Will be served starting at 8AM in the dining room. PROGRAM START: 9:00AM
Summit Lodge #213 F&AM is holding a fund raiser for the Hiram Lane Families. Howard Mowery will be collecting donations for two raffle baskets that he will be putting together. The first will be a wine, cheese, and cracker basket. The second will be a bourbon, scotch, and cigar basket. For this basket, I will gladly accept donations of unopened bottles and cigars. Thank you very much in advance for any and all donations. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Message Howard or email him at wakemaker14@gmail.com for details.
2025 Past Masters Convocation
2026 Wardens and Deacons Training
