About Freemasonry

Freemasonry is among the oldest non-religious fraternal societies in the world. It is a society of men who are concerned with moral and spiritual values. It encourages men to live better lives, to discipline themselves and to consider their relationships with others. Because it is a basic and essential requirement that every member professes and maintains a belief in a Supreme Being, it has a spiritual basis. However, it should never be regarded as a substitute for any form of religious faith.

Freemasons attempt to follow three great principles which represent a way of achieving higher standards in life:

Brotherly Love - tolerance and respect for the opinions of others as well as a kind and understanding behaviour towards fellow creatures.
Relief - practising charity, not only for other Freemasons, but also for the whole community.
Truth - Freemasons always strive for truth, demanding high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.

Men of all ages, races, colours, religions, politics or financial or social standing are members of Freemasonry. When admitted a man becomes known as a 'Brother' and remains so for the rest of his Masonic career.

There are certain preconditions of membership of any Masonic lodge.

You must believe in a Supreme Being.
You must be at least 21 years of age.
You must be prepared to take an oath to preserve the private aspects of Freemasonry.
You must be willing to strictly observe the Laws, Regulations and Constitutions of Freemasonry.
You must be of good character and be prepared to uphold the Civil and Criminal Laws of any country in which you may reside.
You must have the full support of your partner and family.

When a man joins Freemasonry he takes part in three different ritual dramas, known as ‘Degrees’ that progress him through three stages of Masonic development ultimately becoming a ‘Master Mason’.

After joining a lodge and usually after becoming a Master Mason it may be possible to take an office in the Lodge. This means you will be taking part in the dramatic representation of the moral messages mentioned earlier. Officers progress through the offices in a Lodge, usually on an annual basis, until the office of Master of the Lodge is attained. Many men find it is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a Freemason and discover talents they did not know they had!

The ceremonies described earlier take place in the lodge room, and are followed by the social part of the evening, historically known as the 'Festive Board'. At the Festive Board members will have dinner after which dining toasts are given to the King and various members of the Order, a few short speeches.

At most meetings charitable collections are taken and there is sometimes a raffle at the Festive Board for Lodge funds.