What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry means different things to each of those who join. For some, it’s about
making new friends and acquaintances. For others it’s about being able to help
deserving causes – making a contribution to family and for society. But for most, it
is an enjoyable hobby.
Freemasonry is one of the World’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political,
fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches self-knowledge through participation
in a progression of ceremonies. Members are expected to be of high moral standing
and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What happens at a lodge meeting?
The meeting, which like those of other groups, are open only to members, is normally
in two parts.
First, there are normal administrative procedures such as:
• Minutes of the previous meeting
• Proposing and balloting for new members
• Discussing and voting on the annual accounts
• Masonic news and correspondence
• News about charitable work
Second, there are the ceremonies for:
• Admitting new members
• The annual installation of the Master of the Lodge and his officers
Why do Freemasons take oaths?
New members make solemn promises concerning their behaviour both in
the Lodge and in society. Members also promise to keep confidential the way they
recognise each other when visiting another Lodge. Freemasons also promise to
support others in time of need but only so far as it does not conflict with their
family and public obligations.
Are Freemasons expected to give preference to fellow members?
Certainly not. This would be unacceptable and may lead to action being taken
against those involved. On joining, each new member states that he expects
no material gain from membership.
Who do the Masonic charities donate to?
Whilst there are Masonic charities that cater specifically, but not exclusively, for Masons
or their dependants, others make significant grants to non-Masonic organisations.
What is Freemasonry’s relationship with religion?
All Freemasons are expected to have a religious belief, but Freemasonry does not
seek to replace a Mason’s religion or provide a substitute for it. It deals in a man’s
relationship with his fellow man not in a man’s relationship with his God.
Why do some churches not like Freemasonry?
There are elements within churches who misunderstand Freemasonry and its objectives.
They confuse secular rituals with religious liturgy. There are many Masons in churches
where their leaders have been openly critical of the organisation. Masonry has always
actively encouraged its members to be active in their own religion.
Is Freemasonry an international order?
Freemasonry exists throughout the world. However, each Grand Lodge is sovereign
and independent. There is no international governing body for Freemasonry.
There is no international governing body for Freemasonry.
Are there women Freemasons?
Yes. Whilst UGLE, following the example of medieval stonemasons, is, and has
always been, restricted to men, women Freemasons have two separate
Grand Lodges, which are restricted to women.
Why do you wear regalia?
Wearing regalia is historic and symbolic. Like a uniform, the regalia indicates the
rank of the wearer in the organisation.
How many Freemasons are there?
Under the United Grand Lodge of England, there are over a quarter of
a million Freemasons.
There are Grand Lodges in Ireland, which covers both Northern Ireland and Eire,
and Scotland which have a combined total of approximately 150,000 members.
Worldwide, there are approximately six million Freemasons.
How many degrees are there in Freemasonry?
Basic Freemasonry consists of three degrees:
• Entered Apprentice
• Fellow Craft
• Master Mason
How much does it cost to be a Freemason?
It varies from Lodge to Lodge. Anyone wishing to join will find a Lodge to suit his pocket. There is an initiation fee on entry and in due course regalia will have to be bought. The meeting is normally followed by a dinner, the cost depending on the venue. There is, in addition, an annual subscription.
Members are invited to give to charity but this should always be within their means
and it is entirely up to the individual how much they wish to contribute.
Charitable Work
The values of Freemasonry are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness.
Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but
also for the community as a whole – both by charitable giving, and by voluntary
efforts and works as individuals.
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of
orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums
are given to national and local charities.
Masonic charity is exercised at every level: individual Lodges make gifts and give
aid to their own communities and every Province also gives large sums of
money to regional causes. Nationally, our efforts are channelled through
four main charity organisations:
The Grand Charity
Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys
Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution
Masonic Samaritan Fund
