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.
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