What is Freemasonry? - Frequently asked Questions.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a fraternal organisation open to mature men of good character.
It raises considerable sums of money, which are applied to a range of charitable purposes for the benefit of both Masons and the wider community.
How is Freemasonry organised in England?
The overall governing body in England is the United Grand Lodge of England.
Below this there are Provincial Lodges which generally cover a particular county or convenient grouping.
At a local level there are the Private Lodges; generally just known as lodges.
There are about 8,500 private Lodges under the auspices of the United grand Lodge of England.
How is Freemasonry organised elsewhere?
Generally in a similar manner to that in England.
Do I have to be of a particular religion to become a Mason?
No. Freemasonry is open to men of any religion, the only requirement is a belief in a "Supreme Being".
Why do you have a "Supreme Being" rather than just "God"?
Not all religions call their supreme being "God" so we use the generic term of a "Supreme Being" to accommodate this.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No.
What about racial or ethnic origin?
Men of all races and ethnic origins are welcome.
If a Freemason breaks the law do his fellow Freemasons have to help and protect him from justice?
No. A Mason’s obligation to assist a fellow Mason is limited to lawful undertakings. The exact wording from the obligation he takes is; "murder, felony, treason, and all other offences contrary to the laws of God or the ordinances of the realm, being at all times most especially excepted".
Can a criminal become a Mason?
Prior to joining, a prospective candidate must declare any previous criminal convictions.
Minor motoring offences are normally ignored and, provided the individual has since lived a law abiding life, minor "youthful" indiscretions can be overlooked at the discretion of the Lodge. Serious or repeated offences would preclude membership.
Equally, a criminal conviction after joining will generally lead to expulsion from Freemasonry.
Non-disclosure of an existing conviction at the time of joining can also lead to expulsion.
Why are the freemasons so secretive?
In general they should not be. Masons are free to disclose their membership as they see fit and discuss the fraternity within their family and friends etc. Some chose not to do this. That is their decision.
The only "secrets" are the traditional means of recognition, which are used in our ceremonies. In addition. Members are expected to respect confidences and matters of a personal nature where these are legal.
Is it expensive to be a Freemason?
There is a one off initiation fee of about £120.00, annual fees or subscriptions are typically £120.00, and dining fees are approximately £13.00 per evening.
Once initiated, joining other lodges can cost about £35.00.
In addition, there will be the expense of socialising at the Festive board (drinks etc) and regalia (initially £30.00).
Freemasons are expected to make donations to Charity as their circumstances permit.
These donations are a personal matter and can vary according to circumstances.
Can women become Freemasons?
Not under the auspices of the United Grand Lodge of England. There is a separate organisation for women. There is also an organisation that admits both men and women. Neither of these organisations are recognised or have links with The United Grand Lodge of England.
Where can I learn more?
Visit the web site of the United Grand Lodge of England. See links..
You can visit a lodge when they hold open days, these are often advertised in the local press.
What 'goes on' at a Masonic meeting?
The meeting is split into two sections.
First there is the formal part conducted in the Temple itself. During this the following occurs: A short ceremony to 'Open the Lodge' Reading and acceptance of the Minutes of the previous meeting. Report on any meeting of the Lodge management or reference committee. Either: the initiation of a new Mason, the 'promotion' of a recently admitted Mason, the installation of a new Master of the Lodge, or occasionally a lecture. Any other administrative business, e.g. voting of donations to Charity, increasing of Lodge fees, balloting of a new member. Collection of 'Alms' or money for Charity. A short ceremony to 'Close the Lodge'.
The second part of the meeting is the 'Festive Board' and is normally a formal 'sit down' meal followed by short speeches and toasts. During the Festive Board there are generally further collections or raffles to raise money for Charity. Most meetings start in the early evening although some are held during the day. Typically a meeting will last 3 to 4 hours.