Tucked away in Kenyon, Rhode Island, Charity Lodge No. 23 stands as a bastion of tradition and tight-knit community. As a small country lodge, we offer an experience that is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world—a place where history is respected, ritual is perfected, and every member is part of a true brotherhood.

A Commitment to Meaningful Ritual

At the heart of Charity Lodge is a deep-seated pride in our ritual work. We believe that Freemasonry is transformative, and that the quality of the experience we provide to our candidates is paramount. Our members, including seasoned past masters who have dedicated decades to the craft, work tirelessly to ensure that every degree is meaningful, precise, and impactful. For us, ritual isn't just a requirement; it is the core of who we are and how we make Masons.

The Result: A Journey of Commitment

The leadership of Charity Lodge No. 23 that has recently entered an exciting season of renewal. The story of how current Worshipful Master, Matthew Pelletier, came to lead the lodge is a great example of the results of this transformative work and the dedication required to step into the East.

Matthew’s Masonic journey began nine years ago when he was raised at Moosup Lodge No. 113 in Connecticut. After moving to Rhode Island, he submitted an affiliation request to Charity Lodge. His path to becoming Master was not easy; it required genuine work. Because Connecticut and Rhode Island rituals differ, Matthew had to essentially unlearn his prior training to master the work as it is practiced in the jurisdiction.

Matthew didn't just walk into the chair—he earned it by stepping up as Junior Deacon, serving through all five officer chairs, and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the lodge’s rigorous standards. Today, as he leads Charity Lodge, he is focused on ensuring that the degrees they confer remain transformative for every candidate who walks through their doors, viewing his role not as a title, but as a responsibility to preserve the profound, life-changing experience of Freemasonry.

Rooted in Community

Brethren of Charity Lodge are proud of their deep connections to their local area. The lodge is known for its grassroots approach to community involvement:

• The Washington County Fair (August): Their presence at the fair is a well-oiled machine, serving as their primary fundraiser and ensuring they can maintain the lowest dues in the state for their members.
• Scholarship Programs: They are dedicated to supporting the next generation through local scholarships, reflecting their commitment to the future of our community.
• Christmas Day Dinner: Each year, they host a free Christmas dinner open to the public. It is a labor of love that allows them to serve their neighbors and foster a spirit of community during the holidays.

A Unique Masonic Experience

Charity Lodge offers a unique atmosphere that you won't find just anywhere. They are fortunate to have an outdoor lodge on their property—a space built by local vocational students in the 1970s. This distinct feature even includes an altar crafted from a piece of the iconic "Superman" building from downtown Providence—a small, tangible piece of Rhode Island history right in their own backyard.

The Future of Charity Lodge

The lodge is currently seeing a new generation step up to the helm, bringing fresh energy while honoring the traditions that have sustained them for years. They are actively looking for new members who are eager to learn, contribute, and grow with them.

If you are looking for a lodge that values the deep, transformative nature of the craft, fosters genuine friendship, and is dedicated to serving the community, we invite you to visit Charity in Kenyon. Come see why their small, country lodge is a place you can call home.