About Our Lodge
Since 1896 Freemasons with the mission of making men better and improving their community have been meeting right here in New Smyrna Beach to enjoy fellowship, self-improvement, and the opportunity to help others. New Here?Get InvolvedOur Mission & Vision
Our mission is simple:
This fraternity was created to offer men the opportunity to better themselves. Our goal is very simple, to help men learn to subdue their passions and improve themselves through the moral teachings of Freemasonry that have existed for thousands of years. The lessons that we teach might contain some secrets in the way they are communicated, but the truth is that our fraternity is not giving away any secrets, just simply helping men recognize things they have known all along, and reminding them to walk and act as just and upright men, before God and man.
What We Want…
The goal of every Freemason across the world for the last 300 years has been the same, how do we make men better so they can make a difference with their lives? Well we start by taking men who have the desire to be the best versions of themselves, and to leave a positive lasting legacy behind, and giving them the teaching and direction they need to build a “spiritual building” that will help them understand who they are meant to be and the morals and values of life. Freemasonry is not a “religious organization” but rather a philanthropic organization dedicated to teaching men how to live morally upright lives, improve their community, and harness the power of true friendship.
Ask.
If you want to know what being a Mason is all about you have already taken the first step. Now all you have to do is ask.
Seek.
By coming to the lodge and visiting with the brothers you are searching for answers. We are happy to impart them.
Find.
Once you have become a brother there is nowhere in the world you can go that you don't have support.
Our History
New Smyrna Lodge #149 was chartered on January 22nd, 1896. Since that time the “Lodge” has moved in geographical location but the mission and direction of the lodge has remained the same. Making good men better through teaching and philanthropy that has a positive impact on the local community.
Who We Are
Our Officers
Every “lodge” of Freemasons is composed of several officers. These are men who have shown their commitment not only to the continued efforts of the members of the lodge to do charitable work within their community, but also men who have shown their commitment to their own self improvement and spiritual maturity. Without the officers, the lodge would not be able to conduct it’s business, do it’s charitable work, or perform the necessary ceremonies and teachings to create new Masons.
The required elected officers of the lodge are as follows:
The Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, and Secretary. These men are elected by secret ballot and without them the lodge would not function.
The required appointed officers are as follows: The Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Senior and Junior Stewards, and Tiler. These men are appointed by the Worshipful Master of the lodge and serve vital roles in all of our ancient teachings and customs.
Robert "Bob" Segarra W:. M:.
Worshipful Master
The term “Worshipful Master” truly means “knowledgeable” as in “the Master of knowledge in the lodge”. He is responsible for making sure that our business and ceremonies are conducted in accordance with the laws of our land, as well as the ancient and sacred laws of our fraternity.
R:.W:. Greg Davis
Senior Warden
Steve Lane, PM
Junior Warden
Stephen L. Kenney
Treasurer
A.J. Winterwerp, PM
Secretary
Glenn Smith, PM
Chaplain
Walter Layton PM
Marshall
Bob Wheeler
Senior Deacon
Tim Brown
Junior Deacon
Randall Johnson
Senior Steward
Roger Hayle
Junior Steward
Bud Bacheller PM
Tiler
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “Mason”?
A Mason is any man, from any walk of life, regardless of creed, color, social, political, or financial status, who has been accepted into the fraternity and seeks to make himself, and the world around him, a better place.
Are you a secret society?
No. In fact, most of our information is very public. We only reserve certain parts of our ceremonies and identifications in order to maintain the traditions that have created the basis for our organization for hundreds of years.
Are you part of a conspiracy?
Alright, this one is for laughs. Of course not. While many powerful and influential men have been a part of our fraternity, it is a fundamental tenant that every Mason submits to, and obeys, the laws of the country in which he resides.
Are there any famous Masons?
Actually there have been thousands over the last 300 years. Kings and Presidents, entertainers and scientists, we have a rich history of brothers including: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill, William Shakespeare, Harry Houdini, Mozart, Beethoven, Arnold Palmer, Shaquille O’Neal, and others.
What do Masons do?
Masons have three goals: To learn, to subdue their passions, and improve themselves. By studying the system of morals, veiled in allegory and illustrated through symbols, of our ancient order, men learn to be friendly, charitable, and just in their actions.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Although in order to be a Mason you must have a belief in a “supreme being”, there are absolutely no requirements or restrictions on your individual practices. Simply that you believe in the existence of one true “God”.
Who can be a Mason?
In Florida, the requirements of being a Mason are simple: you have to be a man, 18 years or older, believe in a “supreme being”, and be of good character, meaning that you can pass a background check and simple interview.
Benefits of Joining?
If you are seeking personal or financial benefits you are going to be sadly disappointed. The main benefits to being a Mason are friendship, charity, and brotherly love. The freedom of knowing you are among peers, free to be yourself, and knowing that you are part of something larger than yourself are the benefits.