R.W. John C. Toto

R.W. John C. Toto has devoted himself to serving the Craft and advancing Masonic education throughout Massachusetts. He credits his wife, Debby, with her encouragement and support as an essential part of his Masonic journey.

Bro. Toto serves as Chairman of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Education and Training Committee, where he leads a jurisdiction-wide effort to make Masonic education more accessible, relevant, and valuable to every Brother.

As chairman since 2024 he has relied upon his extensive service to the Craft, as Senior Grand Warden (2025) of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, District Deputy Grand Master of the 14th Masonic District (2019-2020), and Worshipful Master (2018-2019) of Joseph Warren-Soley Lodge in Lincoln. Before assuming leadership of the broader Education and Training Committee, he helped revitalize the Lodges of Instruction as Chairman of that subcommittee. Brother Toto is also a member of the Strategic and FLIC committees, and previously served on Membership. Brother Toto has been a Mason since 2010.

His Committee has worked to strengthen and connect programs including Hiram Builders Academy, Masonic Leadership Institute, Master’s Path, the "new" Past Masters Forum, Lodges of Instruction, and practical officer training. He re-styled Deacons Academy as Hiram Builders Academy, recognizing that the former name incorrectly suggested the program was intended only for Deacons or junior officers rather than for Brothers at every stage of their Masonic development.

Bro. Toto believes that education must provide genuine value to Masonic membership. This includes helping Brothers better understand the teachings of the Craft and continue “building the temple within,” while also providing practical instruction in Lodge leadership, administration, and Masonic understanding. Leadership is the common thread connecting the Committee’s programs, whether a Brother is preparing for the East, continuing to serve after the Oriental Chair, or seeking greater usefulness within his Lodge and community.

His work as Chairman also emphasizes communication and accessibility. He has supported the creation of a unified Education and Training digital hub through which Brothers can easily find and participate in programs, schedules, resources, and continuing-learning opportunities. His standard is straightforward: the information should be clear enough for all to understand while reflecting the dignity and excellence of the Craft.

Since he was raised a Master Mason, Bro. Toto has consistently emphasized working in the quarries over recognition. His leadership reflects a belief that the Brothers who quietly perform meaningful work, often make the most lasting contributions. Through his chairmanship, he continues working to ensure that Masonic education strengthens individual Brothers, their Lodges, and the fraternity throughout Massachusetts.