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, compassion and
brotherly love have survived even the most devisive
political, military and religious conflicts through
the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor
a place for worship. Instead, it is a friend of all
religions which 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, never have
any political or religious debates, always conduct their
affairs in harmony and friendship, and call each other
" Brother!"
What Freemasons Believe
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 of charity and good works. They remain
unchallenged as " the World's Greatest Philanthropy!"
The Freemasons of America contribute more than one
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 ( atheists
are not accepted into the Fraternity).
Those Who Seek Membership
Anyone seeking Membership in Freemasonry must ask a
Masonic friend to recommend him. He must sign a Petition,
stating his age, occupation and place of residence.
Members of the Lodge vote by secret ballot. To be accepted,
the ballot must be unanimous.
The Masonic Lodge
The Masonic Lodge meets one or two evenings per month
to conduct its regular business and vote upon Petitions
for Membership. It is here where the bonds of friendship
and fellowship are strengthened.
The Masonic Degrees
The Candidate receives three Masonic Degrees, concluding
with the Third (or Master Mason's) Degree. The Degrees
are solemn, enlightening, and an enjoyable experience
with no uncomfortable or embarrassing moments. It is
here where the principals of Freemasonry are taught
and where the new Member learns that his family and
his own necessary vocations are to be considered above
Freemasonry.
Every Master Mason is welcomed as a "Brother"
in any of the thousands of Regular Masonic Lodges throughout
the world.
The above material
Copyright 1994 Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.
For copyright
information write to:
The Office of The R.W. Grand Master
Masonic Temple
One North Broad Street
Philadelphia, Pa. 19107-2598
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