Brother to Brother: Mentorship, Growth, and the Power of Freemasonry

Brothers, meet Brother Alex Hayes, 32°, a member of Yeatman Lodge #162 and the Valley of Cincinnati. We sat down with Brother Hayes to understand his journey through Freemasonry as a young and accomplished Brother in the Craft. During his interview, he shares how growing up around Freemasonry shaped his path, how the Scottish Rite deepened his experience, and why mentorship is key to the fraternity’s future.

How were you introduced to Freemasonry, and what motivated you to join?

Brother Hayes: Freemasonry has always been a part of my life. My father and grandfather were Masons, and my mother belonged to Job’s Daughters. As a child, I couldn’t wait to join. When I was finally old enough, I asked my father how to begin. I’ll never forget how quickly he pulled out a petition as if he had been waiting for me to ask.

What were your first experiences with Freemasonry like?

Brother Hayes: Even though I grew up around Freemasonry, I had no real idea what to expect. My Entered Apprentice degree was my first time stepping into a lodge, and the experience was magical. I met Brothers who had watched me grow up, and finally sharing this Brotherhood with them was deeply emotional.

Being raised a Master Mason changed my life. The stories of morality inspired me to improve myself, and they even led me to a better career. A Brother in my lodge worked as an HVAC technician and helped me transition into the field.

What drew you to the Scottish Rite? How has it enhanced your Masonic journey?

Brother Hayes: I always planned to join the Scottish Rite, but I sped up the process when I learned their iconic Cincinnati building was for sale. I wanted to experience it before it was gone. Once I got involved, I realized it was even more incredible than I had imagined.

The grand buildings, the intricate rituals, and the dedication behind each degree showed me that Freemasonry is more than just a group of friends—it’s a transformative fraternity. On my first day, I toured the Scottish Rite building and saw the Children’s Dyslexia Center (CDC) in action. Witnessing the tutoring sessions made me proud to be part of something that changes lives.

Beyond its wider impact, the Scottish Rite deepened my understanding of Blue Lodge teachings. The expanded lessons and degree presentations continue to inspire me. It makes sense that our Valley was next to the Taft Theatre – our degrees, with their special effects and extensive rehearsals, feel like professional productions.

What aspects of Freemasonry have been the most rewarding for you?

Brother Hayes: Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite have taught me discipline, motivation, and the value of hard work. Pursuing something I’m passionate about has boosted my confidence and helped me reach my potential. If I can embody these values, memorize these rituals, and speak in front of men I admire, I can do anything.

My Masonic experiences have also improved my career. My memorization and public speaking skills have grown tremendously.

It has given me a community—something I think many men struggle to find after high school. I’ve built lifelong friendships with my Brothers and people in my community through our charitable work.

What have you enjoyed most about being a part of a multi-generational Brotherhood?

Brother Hayes: Learning from those with more life experience has been invaluable. During a slow period at work, I met with a Brother who had launched multiple businesses. He invited me to his kitchen table and spent three hours sharing his knowledge. That conversation gave me the confidence to start my own business.

What do you wish older generations of Masons knew about engaging with younger Masons?

Brother Hayes: Mentorship is crucial, and younger Masons crave it. When I guided a Brother through Masonry, I made myself available as often as I could. We met after work, practiced ritual, and discussed its meaning. Today, he’s one of the best Masons I’ve ever met and one of the most respected in our district. Because he was able to fully understand the lessons, he had the opportunity to grow into the Mason he was meant to be.

We must invest in the next generation.

What advice would you give to men thinking about joining?

If you’re interested, talk to some Masons before deciding. Many people assume we’re always formal, dressed in suits and ties, but they’d be surprised at how much fun we have. My Brothers and I regularly get together outside the lodge or Valley.

Also, remember that you get what you put into it. Freemasonry doesn’t offer instant gratification—you must be engaged, give back, and truly invest in the experience. But it’s worth it. It has changed my life.

Brother Hayes’ story underscores the power of mentorship and engagement in strengthening our fraternity. His experiences show why connecting with younger Masons is essential to Freemasonry’s future. This conversation is part of the Scottish Rite, NMJ’s Path Forward initiative, helping Masons adapt our fraternity to ensure our Brotherhood thrives for centuries. Additional insights can be found in Supreme Council’s new book, The Path Forward: Empowering the Future of Freemasonry.