Freemasonry is a tree of life. Its root is its belief in the fatherhood of God, the Brotherhood of Man, and the Immortality of the Soul. It consists of the millions of human beings of sundry races and creeds resident in far scattered lands, but particularly in the English speaking countries of the British Commonwealth of Nations and the United States. These millions may be humble tillers of the soil, industrial workers of the city, entrepreneurs of industry and commerce, learned scholars and scientists of the University, members of various professional bodies - educational, legal, medical - preachers of the religion of their race and country, and even the Monarch of an imperial throne or the President occupying the White House or their representatives, Governor-Generals, Governors, Ambassadors and Cabinet Ministers. (1)

Freemasonry is a large fraternal organisation that promotes moral and personal growth among its members. Its core values include Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Freemasonry offers a unique and rewarding experience to men of all walks of life, regardless of race, religion or social status. Membership is available to all men of good character over the age of 18 years. (2)

Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms, and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides. The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It does not allow religion to be discussed at its meeting. (3)

Some men are attracted to the contemplative and esoteric aspects of Freemasonry and enjoy a lifetime of research, meditation and self discovery. Others are drawn by the mateship that they form within the lodge. Still others enjoy the chance to develop their leadership skills and confidence in public speaking. Many of the world's most inspiring, influential leaders and intellectuals have been Freemasons. To be accepted into Freemasonry is a great personal honour and privilege. It therefore requires of its members an active dedication to self improvement and excellence in their personal, professional and civil lives, but the personal rewards are always worth far more than the effort invested.

In summary, Freemasonry endeavours to make a good man a better one, to nurture free and disinterested friendship, fellowship and co-operation within the community across the political and religious spectrum (similar to the Olympic Spirit) and thus aims to promote the happiness of mankind.

MYTHBUSTING:

  • Contemporary Freemasonry is not a "secret society". It is a "private society" that has a legal right, like any private organisation to keep some of its information confidential. In ancient times secrecy may have been necessary, to safeguard trade secrets such as building techniques or mathematical formulae from competitors and to ensure that a tradesman applying for work was a legitimate guild member and not an impostor or rival.
  • Masonry is not a "men's club". It is a society that promotes morality, personal development through symbolic and ritual drama, and fellowship among honourable and free-thinking men. Women can choose to join a number of "female" Masonic organisations such the Order of the Eastern Star, the Order of Amaranth and others, some of which exclude men.
  • There is no "Grand Lodge of the World" that controls the affairs of all Masons. Grand Lodges are actually fully autonomous entities that may represent regional, state and in some countries national associations of individual lodges. They administer and provide uniformity in the way Masonic ceremonies are conducted.
  • Freemasonry is not a cult, a religion nor a substitute for religion. It does not preach nor have any doctrine of salvation. It is a system of self development. Members are encouraged to be active in their own faiths. Many religious leaders are also Masons.
  • A Mason may resign at any time, without consequence. Ex members are bound not to divulge the experiences they promised to keep private. That's it.
  • You will not be "approached", invited or "chosen" to become a Freemason. You must approach a lodge by yourself, as solicitation is against the rules of Freemasonry. Our lodge recommends you contact our membership officer if you have any questions or concerns, or come along to one of our Social Events to meet some members and see whether you enjoy our esprit de corps. If so ( and that is very likely! ), then you would lodge your application, have an interview with the officers to formalise the prerequisites, and if all parties are satisfied, your membership will be processed.