Masonic Question

[dekeguy]

There are a number of Free Masons on GC and I am sure they will chime in with good advice.
As a basic comment and in general, Grand Lodge is the headquarters of a jurisdiction (usually a state). It exercises authority over its constituent Craft Lodges (often called Blue Lodges). Often its facilities are made available to several of its Blue Lodges, and to OES chapters which are independent organizations but closely related. Also, there are "Appendant Masonic Bodies" such as Royal Arch Masons, Scottish Rite Masonic Bodies, and other allied organizations. These typically require membership in a Blue Lodge and progression to Master Mason in order to be eligible to join. The Shrine almost always has its own facilities. A lot of Grand Lodge web pages have downloadable pamphlets which explain all of this in greater detail. Also, the United Grand Lodge of England and Wales webpage has a lot of good info.
I suppose the key points to remember are that Craft Lodges operate under authority of charters granted by their Grand Lodge. Appendant and related bodies have a different 'command' structure but are closely related.
Rather than bore you to tears with details I suggest you check out some Grand Lodge web pages. PM me if I can help further.