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Freemasonry
is the oldest, largest and most widely
recognized fraternal organization in the World.
Founded in London, England in 1717, its current
worldwide membership totals 3.6 million members,
1.6 million of which are in North America. With
125,000 Masons and 540 local Lodges, Ohio has
one of the largest Masonic memberships of any
state in the country.
As a
fraternal organization, Freemasonry unites men
of good character who, though of different
religious, ethnic, or social backgrounds, share
a belief in the fatherhood of God and the
brotherhood of mankind.
The
traditions of Freemasonry are founded upon the
building of King Solomon's Temple, and its
fraternal ceremonies use the working tools of
the stonemasons to symbolize moral lessons and
truths. For example, Masons are reminded at
Lodge to "meet upon the level of equality, act
by the plumb of uprightness, and part upon the
square of virtue."
Like most
organizations, one will get out of Freemasonry
what he is able to put into it. However,
membership in Freemasonry is not meant in any
way to interfere with an individual's commitment
to his faith, family, or occupation. Freemasonry
is not and never can be a replacement for these
important institutions, but rather it is a
positive environment that reminds every Mason of
his duty to God, his community, his family and
himself.
Freemasonry
provides opportunities for sincere, honest,
forthright men who believe in God and desire to
contribute to the improvement of their
communities and themselves. Through our Masonic
Fraternalism, we reaffirm our dedication and
unity to become involved citizens who have a
strong desire to preserve the values that have
made and continue to make America great. |
