What is The Order of the High Twelve?
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High Twelve International
“Fellowship, Patriotism, and Service.”
High Twelve is a social organization composed of Master Masons who extend the principles of Masonry beyond the Lodge room. Its mission is to support Masonic causes, with a special emphasis on youth leadership, public education, and patriotic service.
With over 5,000 members in more than 170 clubs across the United States and abroad, High Twelve unites Master Masons for fellowship and community engagement. While independent from formal Lodge ritual, it remains dedicated to strengthening Masonic unity and service throughout the fraternity.
A Spirit of Fellowship and Service
High Twelve encourages the same values found in Masonry—brotherhood, integrity, and service—expressed in a more relaxed and social atmosphere. Its members have achieved much together:
Building lifelong friendships grounded in brotherly love and goodwill.
Supporting public schools and educational initiatives.
Taking part in community improvement projects and civic service.
Promoting good government based on liberty and the rights of the individual.
Meetings and Membership
Although membership is limited to Master Masons, everyone is welcome to attend meetings. A typical High Twelve meeting features:
Brief business sessions,
Warm fellowship among members and guests, and
An informative program or guest speaker on a wide range of topics.
The name “High Twelve” comes from an old Masonic expression—“high twelve” was the noon hour, the traditional time to pause from labor for refreshment. Many clubs still meet at midday, keeping that symbolic link to rest, reflection, and fraternity.
High Twelve has no ritual but strongly encourages members to remain active in their Blue Lodges and their communities, living out Masonic ideals through fellowship and action.
Masonry in Action
High Twelve International assists Blue Lodges wherever help is needed, embodying the principle of “Masonry in Action.” Clubs work locally and collectively across states to serve common goals, always observing Masonic law within their jurisdictions.
Members focus particularly on youth and education, supporting:
DeMolay International,
The International Order of Rainbow for Girls,
Job’s Daughters International, and
The Wolcott Foundation, which provides scholarships to George Washington University students pursuing careers in public service and government.
Through these efforts, High Twelve continues to uplift young people, strengthen communities, and honor the best traditions of Freemasonry.