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.
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.
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.
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.
What Are The Requirements For Membership?
Membership in the Masonic Fraternity is an act of free
will. A man must ask for the opportunity. The potential member must be at
least eighteen years of age, of sound moral character, and able to express
his belief in a Supreme Being. One member of the Lodge being petitioned must
be willing to sign his petition as Recommender, and one other Mason of any
Lodge must sign as Avoucher. His election is by unanimous consent.
Freemasonry - A Way of Life
As the oldest, largest, and best known fraternal
organization in the world, Freemasonry opens its doors to all who endorse
its teachings. A strong belief in family, community, pride in our country,
and sound ethical and moral values are what distinguish the Masonic
fraternity. Our strength lies in the unity of our conviction to these
ideals.
