(888) ASK1 2B1

(888) 275-1221

Every Mason looks to the East for guidance and inspiration, for there sits the Master of our Lodge.

serving the community


WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?

Freemasonry, sometimes just called Masonry, is the word’s oldest and largest Fraternity. It aims to promote Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love among its members — men from every race, religion, opinion, and background — who are brought together as Brothers to develop and strengthen the bonds of friendship. There are more than 3 million members meeting in nearly every free country in the world. Freemasonry proposes to “make good men better” by teaching — with metaphors taken from geometry and architecture — about building values based on great universal truths. And of course, charity and community service is fundamental to Freemasonry and something we actively take part in.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A MASON?

Although exact membership requirements may vary slightly from country to country and state to state, generally anyone meeting the following primary requirements may petition a Lodge for membership. You are an adult male (usually 18-21, based on the individual jurisdiction) of good character and recommended by a Mason. You believe in a Supreme Being — no atheist can become a Mason but we are not concerned with theological distinctions or your particular religious beliefs. You are interested in becoming a Mason because you hold a favorable opinion of our institution; and, your decision to apply is based on your own “free will and accord.” No one will compel you to join.

HOW DO I BECOME A FREEMASON? ASK!

Because Masons have not traditionally recruited members, and do not hold public meetings, there has long been confusion about how to join the Fraternity. Does someone ask you? Do you ask?

If you meet the requirements above, it is really quite simple:

Most men can become a Mason by simply asking — — like Washington, Franklin, and most every Mason from the past to the present day. Each Lodge manages the membership process for its candidates. In general, men seek out a Lodge near their home or work (the “Find a Lodge” feature above will help you find the nearest Lodge), or they ask a Mason to recommend a Lodge to them. Once you’ve found a Lodge you would like to join, let them know of your interest and they will provide you with a petition.

If you are unanimously elected by the members of a Lodge, joining the Fraternity involves going through three “degrees”: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Every man accepted into the Fraternity goes through the degrees, thereby making each an equal to the others in the Lodge. Once you are a Master Mason, you are free to join the many appendant organizations. You should know though, that the 3rd Degree, or Master Mason degree, is the highest degree in Freemasonry — any others are supplemental, and though they may add to your Masonic experience, the degrees are no higher, regardless of their number.

WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW A MASON WHO CAN RECOMMEND ME?

It is quite possible you know a Mason but you just don’t realize it. If your father, uncles, or grandfathers aren’t Masons, they probably know someone who is. You might also want to ask around your workplace or school, church, or gym — anywhere that you find a group of men, you might find a Mason. Masons tend to be very proud of their association with the Fraternity, but though many love to talk about Masonry, others are uncomfortable talking about it. Some find it difficult to speak with their friends or family members because they don’t want to push Masonry on them. They might very well be looking forward to the opportunity to speak with you if you show interest, however. More importantly, they would probably be honored to sponsor you for membership.

If you don’t know anyone who is a Mason and you are interested in joining the lodge, you can fill out the contact request and someone will contact you. You are also invited to attend our lodge at 6 pm on the first Tuesday of the month. While you will not be able to immediately attend a full lodge meeting, the first hour is fellowship time, and makes for an great opportunity to meet members, and decide if masonry is for you.