What is a Mason, What is Masonry and How to become one?

Freemasonry's singular purpose is to make good men better and its bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor a place of worship. It is not a religion nor does it teach a religious philosophy. For nearly three hundred years it has attracted men of high moral character who support the tenets of temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice. Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. While its traditions look back to earliest history, Masonry in its current form appeared when its public events were noticed by the residents of London, England in 1717. We're often asked, "What do Freemasons believe?" The answer is quite simple: essentially the same things that teachers, bus drivers, Rotarians, or anyone else believes. There is no 'requirement' that all Masons believe certain things except insofar as good behavior dictates. A Mason professes a belief in a 'Deity' whatever form or belief that may take is his own business. Masonry - particularly in its earliest days - had some elements of secrecy, the first 'exposure' of the supposedly highly-secret Masonic ritual actually appeared in 1696! Since that time, there have been tens of thousands of books published about this 'secret organization'. And for over three hundred years, despite the good works done by its members, Freemasonry has continually suffered the slings and arrows of those who seek to use it's quiet nature against it. Today, the more than four million Freemasons around the world come from virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, all meet as equals. In fact, one of the most fascinating aspects of Freemasonry (and an obvious source of irritation for those who thrive on the seeds of discontent) has always been: how can so many men, from so many different walks of life, meet together in peace, ignoring political or religious debates, to conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship and to call each other "Brother!" It's truly a conundrum which perplexes those outside the fraternity. Laying aside petty jealousies and agreeing that issues of politics and religion are not proper for discussion within a lodge, the 'bones of contention' that so often divide are removed thereby making it possible for men of varying religious and political interests to meet on common ground. Freemasons are taught to conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which they live. They are men of charity and good works and they engage in charitable works which have made them "the World's greatest philanthropy!"  Their services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique and honorable Fraternity.

About Freemasonry

Masonry is a series of lessons, illustrated by symbols.

Masonry is a gathering of Brothers, dedicated to the improvement of themselves and their community.

Masonry is a lifelong pursuit, a never-ending goal.

With the advent of the Internet, it has become easy to find both good and bad information about Masonry.

Now ask yourself what is a Mason?


Ten Reason to become a Mason

1. Masonry is a place where you can confidently trust every person, entrust your family with them.

2. Masonry is a place where, within moral and civil guidelines; free thought, free speaking and the spiritual growth of man can grow into its fullest potential.

3. Masonry is a place, which provides the opportunity to meet, know, and call Brother, outstanding individuals from all walks of life that, I would not otherwise have met.

4. Masonry is a place to be a part of an organization that has for its principle tenets - Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

5. Masonry is a place that provides self-development opportunities, leadership training and experience, and to improve public speaking skills, without pressure or judgment.

6. Masonry is a place you can go to give support as well as seek it.

7. Masonry is a place where moral virtues are taught and through these teachings a regular reinforcement of the moral virtues is experienced.

8. Masonry is a place to spend time with a group of Brothers, who by acting as good men make me want to become a better man. Not better than others, but better than I would have otherwise been.

9. Masonry is a place to become better prepared to serve the community.

10. Masonry is a place to meet with established members of the community and to become a part of the community.

Becoming a Freemason

How do you become a Mason?

Sorry, waiting for an invitation is futile. We aren't allowed to invite you or solicit you for membership.

It has to be of your own freewill... you have to want to be a Mason.

If you want to become a Mason...

You ask a Mason.

Find a Mason, preferably one that is close to where you live or work, get to know them, and Ask.

Your new friend will most likely be more than happy to provide you with a petition. Fill out the petition, give it back to your friend. This starts the process of making you a "candidate." That's what we call someone who has shown interest in taking the degrees of Masonry.

A degree is a lesson, a set of stories and symbols that we present to our newest members. It is how we begin to introduce you to Masonry.

But don't wait for an invitation. If you want to join our Fraternity, all you have to do is ask.

Masonry has many layers, many levels. Some spend their whole lives content, satisfied and fulfilled in the Blue Lodge as a Master Mason, the very heart of Masonry. Others choose to learn more by pursuing the York Rite, or the Scottish Rite or both.

Many years of friendship and learning await you if you so desire.

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