Each lodge is under the direction of a Worshipful Master, assisted by the help of several other elected officers, additional appointed officers and other members. Five of the seven principle officers serve a one-year term, in a progressive line that often culminates in a brother serving as Worshipful Master. The Treasurer, Secretary and Lodge Education Officer generally provide continuity by serving longer terms. There are many other offices and duties available for those who wish to serve. Each officer has specific duties within the lodge that supports the organization and helps him cultivate particular character-building traits.

The Grand Lodge consists of more-experienced and highly-qualified officers who choose to serve the craft beyond the lodge level. The Grand Master of Ohio oversees a progressive line similar to that of the subordinate lodges. He appoints District Deputies and Educational Officers to serve as representatives who support the individual lodges. These district representatives are responsible for sharing the common vision, providing educational and supporting services. They also help motivate and ensure good business practices, ethical behavior, and consistency in the craft.

Each lodge is a legal not-for-profit entity and operates according to a set of bylaws established by the Grand Lodge. Members pay a nominal annual fee determined by their lodge. There are many related Masonic bodies or specialized branches of Freemasonry which extend from the symbolic lodge (aka Blue Lodge). Among these include Eastern Star (men and women), Demolay, Job's Daughters and Rainbow (youth), York Rite, Scottish Rite, Grotto and Shriners.

A personal note here: One of the truly wonderful aspects of Masonry I have noticed is that it is a service organization completely supported by the volunteerism of its members. Those who progress as officers at the district and state level are very deserving of the duty/honor bestowed upon them. It is an organization whose leadership is based absolutely in heart-centeredness, willingness and competency to serve, not just the fraternity, but the world at large. Seniority, political and personal motivations are not considerations. As a whole, Masons truly are really good men.