Founders
The Grand Lodge of Jerusalem, established as Lodge No. 1966, has its roots in Malta. It was founded by the English Grand Master, Lord James Hamilton, on February 20, 1966. Prominent figures who played significant roles in its foundation and development include:
Grand Master: Lord James Hamilton
Masters: Louis Scerri Ferrante, Giovanni Garozzo, Carmelo Costanzo, and Peter Zammit
History
The Grand Lodge of Jerusalem has evolved and expanded its influence over the years. In 1968, the Jerusalem Lodge integrated the San Giorgio Lodge, sparking a steady growth in membership. By 1972, it reached 1,860 members from diverse backgrounds.
Through the efforts of Grand Master Louis Gale, the Jerusalem Lodge established connections with lodges worldwide, including one in Washington, fostering an extensive network of brotherhood. Adrian Busietta, a prominent Maltese Freemason and founder of Baron’s Castle, later served as Grand Master and continued expanding the lodge’s reach. In 1990, the lodge saw the establishment of its Spanish counterpart in Malaga, led by Giulio Rosi. The Grand Lodge’s leadership transitioned between Nicola Benvenuto, Englishman John James, and Maltese Antony Bartolo from 1991 to 2000, followed by Joseph Zammit, who established new lodges such as the Goldenroof Lodge 39 in Innsbruck and the Lodge of Gabriel 48 in Rome.
Origins
Our Grand Lodge of Jerusalem carries the legacy of the Holy City, Jerusalem, where King Solomon erected a temple dedicated to the GAOTU, representing a significant cornerstone in Masonic tradition. Jerusalem holds sacred significance for the three great monotheistic religions as the site of Jesus’s ministry, Muhammad’s ascension, and the Holy of Holies for Judaism.
Jerusalem, the “City of Peace” in Hebrew, symbolizes our dedication to friendship, brotherhood, and peace.
Freemasonry
Freemasonry is an inclusive fraternal organization dedicated to fostering personal development, moral integrity, and charity. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, committed to building a community based on respect, harmony, and universal values. Our guiding principles emphasize honesty, integrity, and a commitment to helping others through charitable actions and community engagement. In a world challenged by division, Freemasonry’s mission of unity is more vital than ever.
Principles
Masonic principles are rooted in the timeless Constitutions of 1723 by James Anderson, emphasizing our tradition’s universal values. While our fraternity does not engage in religious or political discourse, we celebrate freedom, equality, and brotherhood.
Freemasonry promotes universal values, including loyalty, sincerity, altruism, and respect for diversity. Our members are united in a lifelong quest for truth and the betterment of humanity. We believe in an inclusive, tolerant society that values freedom and democracy, transcending social, racial, and religious divides.
Our Vision
The Grand Lodge of Jerusalem is committed to nurturing an environment where moral integrity and universal fraternity flourish. Freemasonry, through its rituals and symbols, encourages continuous personal improvement. By embracing these timeless values, we seek to foster an inclusive society where individuals work collectively towards a world of greater harmony and peace.
DECREE No. 67432A
Grand Lodge of Jerusalem
Masonic Union of Initiatory Strict Observance
U.S. Grand Master Nicole Hamilton
Grand Master and President, Grand Lodge of Jerusalem
WE HEREBY DECREE:
Art. 1
The GRAND LODGE OF JERUSALEM, also known as the Lodge of Jerusalem, based in Triq il-Wardi, St. Paul’s Bay, is REGULARLY and INSTITUTIONALLY established and RECOGNIZED, in accordance with the provisions set forth on 04 November 1966.
Art. 2
The following currently operational lodges are hereby transferred to the Grand Lodge of Jerusalem, in particular:
- Grand Lodge of St. Paul 37
- Grand Lodge Golden Roof 39
- Grand Lodge of Mdina 38
- Lodge of San Antonio 42
- Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Sydney
- Lodge Hauteville Orient, Palermo
- Ordo AB Chao, Supreme Council Degree 33
- Lodge Campo dei Fiori N67
- Lodge San Gabriel N46
Art. 3
This decree serves as an official License Card regarding the Order and the Rite, as established by the attached document from the Grand Lodge of Medina, which has conferred upon the Lodge of Jerusalem and the lodges recognized by it, MASONIC REGULARITY and Fraternal Friendship.
Art. 4
The current Grand Master, Nicole Hamilton, will assume the position of Grand Master of the UNITED GRAND LODGE OF JERUSALEM, of which she will also serve as President.
Art. 5
The term of office of the Grand Master is indefinite, unless amended by corrective resolutions from the Supreme Council Degree 33, ORDO Ab Chao, Malta.
Art. 6
The GRAND LODGE OF JERUSALEM is hereby authorized to conduct Masonic activities both nationally and internationally. It may also recognize other Grand Lodges and enter into treaties of Fraternal Friendship with other National and International Masonic Bodies.
Art. 7
The following trademark is recognized as the official Logo of the Lodge of Jerusalem.
Thus, it was decreed in Zenith, Malta on the 2nd day of the 3rd month of the Year, 04 November 1966.
The GRAND MASTER
(Nicole Hamilton)