Frequently asked questions

Thank you for expressing an interest in Freemasonry by seeking out this information. To become a Mason you must meet certain qualifications to be accepted by a Lodge. There are myths surrounding Freemasons and their activities and therefore the following may answer some of your questions or concerns.

It is considered the world's oldest and largest fraternity dating back possibly to the Middle Ages - although there can be no absolute agreement as to how, when and where it began. Its purpose is to promote the bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love.

Politics has no role in it. Neither is it a religion as some would have you believe but rather a friend and promoter of all religions which are based on the belief in one God or Supreme Being.

Regardless of their position in society, Freemasons meet as fraternal equals. 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 discuss politics or engage in religious debates, conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship, and call each other "Brother".

Freemasons are respectable citizens who are taught to respect and conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the country or state in which they reside. They are men of charity and good works who strive to support those less fortunate than themselves both inside and outside the Order.

Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of "making good men better." Only individuals believed to be of good character are favourably considered for membership. Every applicant must be 21 years of age or more and respected in his locality.

A Masonic meeting can be compared to a formal committee meeting with various officers performing specific functions - Chairman (called the "Worshipful Master"), Secretary, Treasurer and so on. Items on an agenda are taken sequentially and will typically involve a ceremony, involving a candidate, which dramatises his inner growth in morality and ethics, using the symbols and metaphors of Biblical events and the tools of the Mediaeval stonemasons. Announcements are made and the business of the lodge dealt with. Proposals requiring assent are put to a vote. The atmosphere is convivial, but dignified.

The meeting is usually followed by a supper or dinner, called a Festive Board, depending on the occasion, which is again convivial.

If this description appears limited, we ask you to contact us so that we may assist you further. Masons have no secrets to hide, but have only traditional modes of recognition that we prefer to keep confidential. Our constitutions and rules are available to the public, and we are well-known to the authorities.

There is a popular misconception that to become a Mason one needs to be invited to join. In fact the reverse is true - a longstanding convention within Freemasonry is that it is the potential candidate who should do the asking! Some American lodges have the phrase "To be one, ask one." If you know a friend or neighbour who is a Mason and you are interested in Freemasonry, just ask him. He will be delighted to talk with you as all Masons are proud to be members of their own Lodge.