Discover Freemasonry
How Old is freemasonry ?
Elias Ashmole is the first recorded mason – in 1646. The first Grand Lodge in the world was founded in England on 24 June 1717.
Why was it formed ?
To try to help good men become better men and build a better world. These principles are taught through symbols, stories and dramatic plays, which were based originally on Biblical stories, using the building of King Solomon’s Temple as the basis.
All for one…?
A Freemason must respect the law of the country in which he works and lives. His duty as a citizen means that he is not allowed to shield or protect another Freemason if he is acting unlawfully. Equally, use of membership to promote one’s own or others’ business or interests is not permitted.
Isn’t it all secret?
Our rituals and ceremonies were made public in 1723 and are available on the Internet. Keeping membership ‘secret’ became necessary during WWII, creating the current false impression of overall ‘secrecy’. We are now free to acknowledge our membership, and are now one of the most open and active groups on the Internet. Our constitutions and rules are available to the public, as is a list of all our national office holders.
Is Freemasonry a Religion?
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It asks only for a belief in a Supreme Being, which opens it to men of any religion.
Why should I join?
The benefits felt by those who join are many and varied. Some enjoy the camaraderie of being in a group of like-minded individuals, without the often divisive effects of political or religious views.
For some, the collective ability to do far more charitable good in their local community and wider society than they could achieve alone, is important.
The feeling of a real sense of belonging to something worthwhile is cited by many Masons.
Some list the non critical environment in which to develop their own moral compass, personality, improved sense of self worth and self confidence; something they can take and use in everyday life.
All Masons enjoy the social interaction of Festivals, Dinners, social events, weekend excursions and many activities you would expect to find in any other social club, and always irrespective of one’s origins, religious beliefs, political convictions or material worth.
Where else can you find all this and so much more?
Can I become a Freemason?
Membership is open to men of all faiths who are law-abiding, of good character, who acknowledge a belief in a Supreme Being, and who have no unspent criminal convictions. With a few exceptions, a member must also be 18 years or over.
Freemasonry is a multi-racial and multi-cultural organisation. Its membership is wide and diverse.
You will need someone to propose and someone to second your application for membership of a Lodge. If you do not know a Mason to propose you, please use the contact form and an introduction can be arranged.
Charity?
Charity is at the heart of Freemasonry. It includes giving of both time and money. Approximately £52 million is raised annually – all of it from Masons themselves. Charitable giving operates on three levels:
- Individual lodges
- County level for local charities
- National for large causes and major events
Is Freemasonry political?
Freemasonry is not a political organisation, has no political agenda, and discussion of politics is not permitted at meetings. We have concern for people as a core value, but Freemasonry as a body will never express a political view.
What promise will I make?
New members make solemn promises concerning their conduct in the lodge and towards society, similar to those taken in court or upon entering the armed services or many other organisations. It includes a commitment to keep confidential the traditional methods of proving he is a Freemason. Members also undertake not to make use of their membership for personal gain or advancement. Misuse of membership can lead to expulsion.
What are Ceremonies?
Our Ceremonies are two-part plays intended to be experienced rather than described. There are 3 levels (Degrees) which form a journey of self knowledge that leads an already moral and ethical man, to a deeper understanding of his place in society, and how he can better serve his fellow man, be they a Mason or not.
This information has been compiled and provided by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Berkshire berkspgl.org.uk
