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Masons, or Freemasons, are members of the Freemasons, one of the oldest and largest fraternal organizations globally, with over two million active members. Originating in the late 16th or early 17th century, its members have included kings, presidents, scholars, and religious figures. Learn about the traditions of the Freemasons and how to join this esteemed brotherhood.
Steps
Preparing to Become a Freemason
Understand the fundamental principles of Freemasonry. Freemasonry was founded by individuals committed to mutual support in friendship, brotherhood, and service to humanity. Over centuries, they have sought spiritual integrity and the pursuit of knowledge as part of this brotherhood, where core values remain unchanged despite evolving times. To become a Freemason, you must meet the following requirements:
- Must be male.
- Have a good reputation and be respected by peers.
- In most Masonic jurisdictions, you must believe in a Supreme Being, regardless of your religion.
- Be over 18 years old.
Focus on ethics and personal growth. The motto of the Freemasons is "a better man makes a better world." Freemasonry emphasizes honor, responsibility, and integrity, offering its members the following:
- Monthly or bi-monthly meetings at Masonic lodges, often held in churches or public buildings. In the UK, most lodges are specifically built for Masonic use.
- Lectures on the history of Freemasonry...
- Encouragement toward a lifestyle beneficial to humanity and guidance on fulfilling civic duties and treating others with love and compassion.
- Invitations to participate in ancient Masonic rituals, including handshakes, initiation ceremonies, and the use of the iconic square and compass symbols.
Separate fact from fiction. Novels like The Lost Symbol portray Freemasonry as a secretive organization aiming to dominate the world, with symbols hidden in cities like Washington, DC. However, the truth is that Freemasonry is not involved in such conspiracies, and those joining with such expectations are approaching the brotherhood with entirely wrong intentions.
Request to join the lodge
Contact a nearby Masonic lodge. The simplest way to start the membership process is to reach out to a local Masonic lodge, often listed in phone directories or online. Express your interest in joining Freemasonry. Depending on your location, there may be other ways to join, but starting locally is best. The process begins here:
- Look for a Freemason. Many members proudly display Masonic symbols on their cars, hats, clothing, or rings. They are usually happy to discuss Freemasonry with interested individuals.
- Some jurisdictions require potential members to approach the brotherhood independently, while others allow members to extend invitations. If you’ve been invited by a Freemason, proceed with the next steps without hesitation.
Attend an interview with lodge members. After your application is reviewed, you’ll be invited to a nearby Masonic lodge for an interview with a group of Masons known as an Investigating Committee.
- They will ask about your reasons for joining, your background, and your character.
- You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about Freemasonry.
- The committee will spend one to two weeks speaking with your references and verifying your information. Issues like alcoholism, substance abuse, or domestic violence may lead to rejection. In some countries, this process can take years.
- Lodge members will vote on your application.
- If approved, you’ll receive an invitation to join Freemasonry.
Embark on a Freemasonry Career
Start as an Apprentice. To join the Freemasons, you must undergo a symbolic three-degree initiation process. The Entered Apprentice, the first degree, introduces candidates to the fundamental principles of Freemasonry.
- Moral truths are often powerfully conveyed to new candidates through the symbolic use of builder's tools.
- New members must master a catechism before progressing to the next steps.
Advance to the Fellow Craft Degree. The second degree continues to educate candidates on the rules of becoming a new member, particularly the close connection between Freemasonry and the arts and sciences.
- Candidates will be tested on the knowledge they acquired as an apprentice.
- Candidates must memorize the second catechism to complete this degree.
Achieve the Master Mason Degree. The Master Mason is the highest and most challenging degree a Freemason can attain.
- Candidates must demonstrate their understanding of the values of Freemasonry.
- Upon completing this degree, the Lodge will hold a ceremony to celebrate your achievement.
- In the U.S., the average time from application to becoming a Master Mason ranges from four to eight months.
Advice
- Memorizing the catechisms is a challenging task, but it will greatly benefit you during your time of dedication to the fraternity.
- Some branches of Freemasonry accept women, but they may not be recognized as true Freemasons by other members.
Warnings
- An applicant might be denied for minor reasons. However, even if rejected, they can reapply for membership later.
- Your membership can be temporarily or permanently suspended if you act against the principles of Freemasonry.
- You can request a leave of absence or resign for any reason; ensure your decision is personal. Even if others disapprove, the choice to step away is ultimately yours, not the fraternity's.
