What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is the oldest fraternal organization in the world. It is dedicated to promoting improvement in the character of its members. A Mason is taught to be a good citizen. To be of good character. To care for those less fortunate, and to give back to his community. The Masonic fraternity contributes over $1 Billion each year to its philanthropic pursuits. Over $750 Million of that in the United States alone. The Crippled Children's and Burns Hospitals sponsored by Shrine Masons are world famous for their ability to help those most in need.

Freemasonry traces its roots to the Middle Ages. It is from associations of stone masons, who built the magnificent cathedrals, castles, and monasteries of Europe that the fraternity started. These groups, eventually, began to accept members who were not actual working masons. At that time they adopted the term "Accepted" Masons, and Freemasonry was born.

The lessons Freemasonry teaches in its ceremonies, are to do with moral values. Freemasonry's acknowledgement, without crossing the boundaries of religion, is that everything depends on the providence of God. Freemasons feel that these lessons apply as much today as they did when it took its modern form at the turn of the 17th century.

Is Masonry A Religion?

No, it is not a religion. This is not to say that masons do not have religious beliefs. One of the tenets of the Masonic Fraternity is that its members are free to express their beliefs in the religion of their choice. However, it is also a condition of membership that each recognize that the wonders of the universe are not here as a result of our doing. But rather as a result of a Supreme Being, who brings order and purpose to our existence.

Freemasons are required to profess and continue in a belief in a Supreme Being. Their ceremonies include prayers, which are not in any way a substitute for religion. It has no theological doctrines, it offers no sacraments, and it does not claim to lead to salvation. By having prayers at its meetings Freemasonry is no more in competition with religion than, say, having a meal where grace is said. Freemasons are not allowed to discuss religion or politics at meetings. Freemasonry's aim is to encourage its members to discover what people from all different backgrounds have in common. As is all too well known, debate about religion and politics can lead to heated discussion rather than enlightenment.

Is Masonry A Secret Society?

This is a widespread misconception, and is completely untrue. The so-called secrets of Freemasonry have actually been in print for well over a century. The fraternity does nothing to hide its existence, its purpose or its membership. The lessons taught in our meetings are meant for the improvement and education of our members. As such, there are portions of these lessons that are not discussed with those outside of the fraternity.

Freemasonry's so-called secrets are solely used as a ceremonial way of demonstrating that one is a Freemason. In any case, Freemasonry have been exposed by the media for almost as long as they have existed. The real point of a Freemason promising not to reveal their secrets, is basically a dramatic way of promising to keep one's word in general. It is ironic that Freemasons used to be quiet about their membership. 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 and nasty because of the silence. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Grand Lodge - Local Lodges

A Grand Lodge is the governing body for a series of Local Lodges. The Local Lodge is where individual members belong. It is also where instruction is given and the actual work of the Fraternity is conducted. The first Grand Lodge was founded in London, England in 1717. It is from them that other countries petitioned for their own charters. They formed in groups, establishing their own Grand Lodges, which in turn gave charters to Local Lodges. Today, there are more than 150 Grand Lodges worldwide with a collective membership of more than 6,000,000.

The Requirements For Membership?

Membership in the Masonic Fraternity is an act of free will. A man must ask for the opportunity. In Delaware the potential member must be at least eighteen (18) years of age, of sound moral character, and able to express his belief in a Supreme Being. Two (2) members of the Local Lodge being petitioned must be willing to sign his petition. His election is by unanimous consent.

Masonic Charity

The Masonic Fraternity believes that its members have an obligation to give back to their communities, and to benefit others. It is an important point to emphasize that Masons are taught to go about these tasks in a quiet, unassuming fashion. This is meant to impress upon our members that it is the work, and not the individual, that is of importance. It is also to preserve the dignity of those for whom the work is performed.

What is it really?

Well, the more casual answer would add that Freemasonry is a body of like-minded, responsible men, who in their own way, wish to progress as individuals and share a journey of personal development towards self enlightenment ie make good men better.

Oh yeah, Freemasonry can also offer:

• Commraderee: having meetings and dinners amongst friends.
• Charity: An opportunity to give money or time to charities that are well managed.
• Enjoyment: Masonry wouldn’t survive if it were serious all the time.
• Mental gymnastics: Yes, there is a bit of learning involved!
• Trust: Frankly, you have to demonstrate this just to join.
• Historical Interest: Masonic history can be fascinating life long study.
• Self Evaluation: Time to consider and evaluate one’s moral outlook and character.
• Personal Growth: A friendly forum where you can develop confidence in public speaking.