Your friend is proud of Freemasonry and the fine character of its members. He believes that you have the qualities for Membership and that you deserve the opportunity to know more about it. The following will explain what Freemasonry is, who Freemasons are, what they believe in and what they do.
WHAT FREEMASONRY IS
Freemasonry is the world’s oldest and largest Fraternity. Its history and tradition date to antiquity. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Its bonds of friendship and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum for nor a place of worship. Instead, it brings together men from all religions that are based on the belief in one God.
WHO FREEMASONS ARE
Many of our nation’s early patriots were Freemasons, as well as thirteen signers of the Constitution and fourteen Presidents of the United States, beginning with George Washington.
Today, the more than four million freemasons around the world come from virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, they all meet as equals. They come from diverse political ideologies, but they meet as friends. They come from virtually every religious belief, but they all believe in one God. One of the most fascinating aspects of Freemasonry has always been: how so many men, from so many different walks of life, can meet together in peace, without political or religious debate and always conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship; and find pleasure in calling each other “Brother!”.
WHAT FREEMASONS BELIEVE IN
All Freemasons believe in one God and in respect for each other.
WHAT FREEMASONS DO
Freemasons are respectable citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which they live. They are men committed to charity and good works. They remain unchallenged as eager participants in “the world’s greatest philanthropy!” The Freemasons of America contribute more than 1.5 million dollars every day to charitable causes which they, alone, have established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique and honorable Fraternity.
QUALIFICATIONS
Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of “making good men better.” Only individuals believed to be of the finest character are favorably considered for Membership. Every
applicant must advocate his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being.
THOSE WHO SEEK MEMBERSHIP
Anyone seeking Membership in Freemasonry >MUST ASK< a member of a Masonic Lodge or a Mason to recommend him.He must sign a Petition, stating his age, occupation and place of residence. Members of the Lodge will visit with him to help understand the step he is about to take and then the members vote by secret ballot. To be accepted, the ballot must be unanimous.
THE MASONIC LODGE
The Masonic Lodge usually meets one evening per month to conduct its regular business and vote upon petitions for Membership. It is in these lodge meetings where the bonds of friendship and fellowship are strengthened.
Hey, have you heard that you don't need to be a Mason to come along to our social events? It's true! Whether you're curious about Masonry or considering becoming a member, you're more than welcome to join us for any of our social nights or meeting dinners run from 6pm to 7pm before our Thursday meetings at the lodge). We've got a fantastic group of Masons who would love to get to know you! There's no need to let us know in advance, but if you want to RSVP, just drop a note to our lodge Secretary via our lodge contact form.
To see when our next lodge social is, check out our lodge calendar (aka "Trestle Board") to see our activity schedule.
The New Mason: Walking the Tightrope of Engagement and Retreat
Embarking on the Masonic journey is a moment of great pride and solemnity, as the new Mason steps into a rich tapestry woven with the golden threads of camaraderie, wisdom, and service. However, this path, while potentially enriching, is strewn with challenges that require a vigilant and proactive approach.
From Stone to Digital: The Timeless Heart of Masonry
While the face of Masonry may change over time, its heart remains steadfast. The future may bring smaller lodges, digital gatherings, or new interpretations of ancient rituals, but the essence of brotherhood and the pursuit of wisdom will never fade. The Masonic journey is not about the size of the lodge or the secrecy of its rituals; it’s about the quality of the bonds formed and the impact made in our communities. In this way, Masonry remains as relevant as ever.
Bowling, Beers, and Brotherhood: Join the Fun at Your Local Lodge Social
Above: Carmel Lodge #421 brethren enjoy a social night at Woodland Bowl, Carmel, IN on 3/23/23. Hey there, Freemasons and wannabes! If you want to strengthen your brotherhood, you have got to attend a social night! And what better way to do that than to hit up the...
Discovering a Captivating Format For An Entered Apprentice Lecture
How Carmel Indiana Freemasonry Offers Relief from the Stresses of Life It's a common misconception that busy men simply do not have the time to participate additional external activities. While it's true that many men lead demanding lives with work, family, and other...
Common Preconceptions about Freemasonry
How Carmel Indiana Freemasonry Offers Relief from the Stresses of Life It's a common misconception that busy men simply do not have the time to participate additional external activities. While it's true that many men lead demanding lives with work, family, and other...
Carmel 421 Masonry: A Sanctuary for the Busy Man
How Carmel Indiana Freemasonry Offers Relief from the Stresses of Life It's a common misconception that busy men simply do not have the time to participate additional external activities. While it's true that many men lead demanding lives with work, family, and other...
The Power of Brotherly Love: Exploring the Rewards of Visiting Other Masonic Lodges
Above photo: On Jan 23rd, Carmel #421's WB Jerry Harvey, and brothers Donny Woodcock, Byron Vulgamore, and Merle Kranning attended Madison Lodge #44 in Pendleton, IN for a Master Mason degree.The Power of Brotherly Love: Exploring the Rewards of Visiting Other Masonic...
What are the top ten reasons for men to join Freemasonry?
The AI or ("Artificial Intelligence" or "computer generated") response was originally to a question posted by Carmel #421's post author at ChatGPT. The question was: What are the top ten reasons for men to join Freemasonry? There are many reasons why men may be...
The History of Freemasonry
The Freemasons are the oldest and most widely known fraternal organization in the world. Symbolically, the Craft dates back to the days of King Solomon and his building of the first Temple in Jerusalem, as depicted in the Old Testament of the Bible and in the Hebrew...
How to Kill Your Lodge
Don't come. When you do come, come late. Never accept an office. It is better to stay out-side and criticize. The officers asked for the job, let them do all the work. Never pay your dues in advance. Wait until you get your moneys worth and then wait a while longer....
