An Introduction
There are 250,000 Freemasons belonging to 8,000 lodges throughout England, Wales and districts overseas. Worldwide, the figure rises to 6 million Freemasons, all with their own special reasons as to why they enjoy Freemasonry.
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. For many, its biggest draw is the fact that members come from all walks of life and meet as equals no matter their race, religion or socio-economic position in society. Its values are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasonry does not discriminate on grounds of race, colour, religion, political views or social standing.
Freemasonry provides a unique environment for people from all backgrounds to learn skills, make lasting friendships, achieve their potential and, above all, have fun. What is more, the organisation provides a valuable forum for discussion between members in an open environment, helping to build trust.
Freemasonry prides itself on its transparency. Not only are Freemasons completely free to acknowledge their membership, but they are also encouraged to do so.
What is it about?
Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with the mutual improvement of moral and spiritual values which its members are encouraged to put into practice in their daily lives. Membership of the Craft is open to every respectable man who believes in his personal Supreme Being – usually known in Masonic terms as the Great Architect of the Universe, Grand Geometrician of the Universe or Most High. These descriptive names show the importance the Freemason places on his Supreme Being in the order of things in Life.
There are three great principles of Freemasonry that have endured for many years and, whilst they may seem old fashioned, are still as relevant today as they were when first conceived:
// Brotherly Love
Characterised by tolerance and respect for others and their opinions and behaving with kindness and understanding towards all people with whom we come into contact throughout life.
// Relief
Practising care and charity towards our own members and the community as a whole; giving some of our time and attention to care for those who are less fortunate and for the good of our communities; and personal charitable giving, without detriment to our families.
// Truth
Freemasons believe in Truth in all things, in honesty and integrity in his personal, business and public life, in fair dealings and in firm standards of decency and morality.
As every man progresses in Life by education so every Freemason is taught how he can be a better Man. This is done by a series of degrees – each degree educates him and answers some questions but leaves a door beyond. When the candidate has grasped the teaching of one degree, that door is opened by his progress to the next degree. Freemasons believe that through the daily practice of these three great principles, men may achieve self-improvement and higher standards in life.