What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. This page
is intended to explain Freemasonry as it is practiced under the United Grand
Lodge of England, which administers Lodges of Freemasons in England and Wales
and in many places overseas. The explanation may correct some misconceptions.
Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values.
Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow
ancient forms and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides.
The Essential Qualification for Membership
The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is
a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of any race or religion
who can full-fill this essential qualification and are of good repute.
Freemasonry and Religion
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential
qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue
to follow their own faith. It does not allow religion to be discussed at
its meetings.
The Three Great Principles
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:
- Brotherly Love
Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of
others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.
- Relief
Freemasons are taught to practice charity, and to care, not only for their
own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving,
and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
- Truth
Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to
achieve them in their own lives.
Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher
standards in life.
Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans,
the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums
are given to national and local charities.
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in
which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with
its members' duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their
private and public responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of their membership
to promote his own or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests
is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission
to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation
to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably
or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.
Secrecy
The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of recognition.
It is not a secret society, since all members are free to acknowledge their
membership and will do so in response to inquiries for respectable reasons.
Its constitutions and rules are available to the public. There is no secret
about any of its aims and principles. Like many other societies, it regards
some of its internal affairs as private matters for its members.
Freemasonry and Politics
Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings
is forbidden.
Other Masonic Bodies
Freemasonry is practiced under many independent Grand Lodges with standards
similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England. There are some
Grand Lodges and other apparently Masonic bodies which do not meet these
standards, e.g. which do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or which
allow or encourage their members to participate in political matters. These
Grand Lodges and bodies are not recognised by the United Grand Lodge of England
as being Masonically regular, and Masonic contact with them is forbidden.
Conclusions
A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to God (by whatever name he
is known) through his faith and religious practice; and then, without detriment
to his family and those dependent on him, to his neighbour through charity
and service. None of these ideas is exclusively Masonic, but all should be
universally acceptable. Freemasons are expected to follow them
To become a Freemason you must:
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Be a man of at least 21 years of age |
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Be of good moral character |
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Have a personal belief in a Supreme Being (the definition of a Supreme
Being is a personal matter for each individual) |
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Decide to become a Mason of "your own free will and accord" without
expectation of any material gain or benefits |
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Be loyal to your country |
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Be dedicated to providing for your own family |
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Have a sincere determination to conduct yourself
in a manner that will earn the respect and trust of others |
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Possess a desire to help others through community service and universal
benevolence |
TO PURSUE YOUR INTEREST IN BECOMING A MEMBER follow these
steps:
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Talk with someone you know who is a Freemason |
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If you do not know anyone who is a Mason, contact a Lodge in your neighbourhood
Masons do not solicit for members. You'll need to express your personal
interest in joining Freemasonry |
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You may be invited to meet with the Lodge Committee
or selected Members to discuss your application and to answer your
questions. |
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Subject to you being considered eligible and properly
motivated you will be asked to complete an application for membership
and return it your to local Lodge Secretary |
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Your application will be presented to a Lodge Meeting
and a secret ballot conducted in which Members vote on your suitability.
You will be notified of the result and invited to attend a Lodge Meeting
for your initiation into Membership. |
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