About Masonry

What is Freemasonry

Freemasonry is the oldest and largest world wide fraternity dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of a Supreme Being. Although Freemasonry is not a religion, it urges its members, however, to be faithful and devoted to their own religious beliefs.

Masons, when asked such a question, will give different answers, in the their own words, based on their own experiences and education. One common answer is "a fraternal organization dedicated to making good men better".

The lessons Freemasonry teaches through its ceremonies are to do with moral values (governing relations between people) and its acknowledgement, without in any way crossing the boundaries of religion.

All Freemasons are taught that any duties which they have as a Freemason come only after their duties to family, work, and faith. In no circumstances should their membership interfere with these aspects of their lives. Freemasons feel that these lessons apply just as much today as they did when it took its modern form at the turn of the 17th century.

What It Does

As a fraternity, Freemasonry provides an opportunity for men to meet and enjoy friendly companionship. In the spirit of helpfulness and brotherly love and guided by the strict moral principles it encourages goodwill toward all mankind. Freemasonry is of a personal nature in its private ceremonies. Its ritual dramatizes a philosophy of life based on morality. It promotes self-improvement. The tools of operative masons are used to symbolize and teach the basic principles of brotherly love, charity and truth, which Masons are encouraged to practice in their daily lives. Charity is a tangible way in which Masons help those whose circumstances in life fairly warrant it.

It is ironic that because Freemasons used to be reticent about their membership, as they were and still are taught never to use it to advance their own interests, critics have taken this the wrong way and think that there is something secretive going on. Nothing could be further from the truth.

What Freemasonry Is Not

Freemasonry is not in any way a secret society despite what many people claim. Our name is on the building, our number is in the phone book, we are in parades and newspapers and our members where lapel pins and tie tacks showing they are a Freemason. Freemasonry’s so called secrets are solely used as a ceremonial way of demonstrating that one is a Freemason when in Lodge meetings; that is, its traditional modes of recognition. Like any other societies, it regards some of its affairs as private matters for its members.

Why Become A Mason?

Becoming a Mason is an individual choice and many men do consider that question at some point in their life.

Most people remember an uncle, grandfather, or even their own father grabbing their apron and ring and heading out to the local meetings. Didn't you always wonder what went on in those meetings?

An intriguing thing to me was that these men seemed to be at ease with each other and even called each other "brother".  I did wonder what made that bond possible between men of different ages, occupations, backgrounds, & education.

Here are just a few reasons I suggest you check into what it takes to become a member.

These men promise to help other members if asked to.  This is extended to include a members family, also.

Members of this fraternity will include outstanding individuals from all walks of life. You may have the opportunity to get to know these men under favorable circumstances.

This Fraternity offers the individual man the opportunity to experience being in charge of a committee or maybe help plan, develop and implement projects in the lodge and community.

Moral virtues are important to Freemasonry. Many of the older members are good role models by example in the community.

Just spending time with such good men will make you want to become one, in most cases.

Why Become A Mason? Borrowed from http://www.masonic-lodges.com/mason