Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. Its history and tradition date to antiquity. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Its bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military and religious conflicts throughout the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor a place for worship. Instead it is a friend of all religions which are based on the belief of one God.
Who are Freemasons?
Many of our nation's early patriots were Freemasons, as well as thirteen signers of the Constitution and fourteen Presidents of the United States, beginning with George Washington. Today, more than four million Freemasons around the world come from virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, they all meet as equals. They come from diverse political ideologies, but they meet as friends. They come from virtually every religious belief, but they all believe in one God. Freemasonry is a home where many men from different walks of life, can meet together in peace, conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship and call each other "Brother!"
The graphic image above depicts King Solomon and some of the most famous Freemasons of all time:
•President and Brother George Washington •Brother Benjamin Franklin •Confederate General and Brother Lewis A Armistead being aided by •Union Captain and Brother Henry H. Bingham (as depicted by the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial at Gettysburg PA.) •President and Brother Franklin D. Roosevelt •President and Brother Harry S. Truman •U.S. General and Brother Douglas MacArthur •U.S. Lunar Astronaut and Brother Buzz Aldrin
Designed: Dean E. Vaughn, P.M.
Artist: Frank M. Hummel
What do Freemasons do?
Freemasons are responsible citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws of the government under which we live. They are men of charity and good works. They remain unchallenged as "the world's greatest philanthropy!" The Freemasons of America contribute more than one and a half million dollars every day to charitable causes which they, alone, have established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique and honorable Fraternity.
Masonic Belief
Members of the Masonic Fraternity practice a sincere belief in the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man.
The Masonic Lodge
The Masonic Lodge meets once or twice each month to conduct its regular business, to vote upon Petitions for Membership, have informative speakers or schedule special events of all types for its members, their ladies and children. Traditionally, following Masonic meetings, refreshments are served. It is here where the bonds of friendship and fellowship are strengthened.
The Masonic Degrees
The Candidate attends several meetings to receive the three Masonic Degrees, concluding with the Third, or Master Mason's Degree. The Degrees are solemn, an enlightening and enjoyable experience with no uncomfortable or embarrassing moments. It is here where the principals of Freemasonry are taught and where the new Member learns that his family and his own necessary vocations are to be considered above Freemasonry. Every Master Mason is welcomed as a "Brother" in any of the thousands of Regular Masonic Lodges throughout the world.
Qualifications
Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of "making good men better." Only individuals believed to be of the finest character are favorably considered for Membership. Every applicant must advocate his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being.
Anyone seeking membership in Freemasonry must ask a Masonic friend to recommend him. He must sign a petition, stating his age, occupation and place of residence. Members of the Lodge vote by secret ballot whether or not to accept the applicant. To be accepted the ballot must be unanimous.
Information courtesy of the Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania
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