Freemasonry
Freemasonry is the oldest and, by far, the largest fraternal order in the world with Lodges in the United States and many other countries. It traces its roots to ancient times, but reliable records show that the first Grand Lodge was formed in England in 1717; and Lodges were formed in our country soon thereafter.
It is a Way of Life
We stress respect for God and country and respect for others — the Golden Rule.
It is a Universal Brotherhood
We reach across the great religious traditions to join together men who would otherwise remain apart. We reach across social and economic lines to attract men who work with their hands and men who work with their pens. We join the young and the not-so young, the rich and the not-so rich.
It is a force for good…
…with high standards of integrity and courtesy. We fight for democratic values, for freedom of expression, and for religious toleration. We seek to unite men of good will. We care about our community and our country.
Masonry Stresses Morality
A thinking man’s environment in which the virtues of Brotherly Love, Relief of the distressed, and a search for Truth are the tenets by which every Mason is taught to live. A Mason’s word is his bond; he deals fairly and honestly with all.
Masons are Patriotic
Masons have fought shoulder-to-shoulder with other patriots to win our independence and time after time to preserve our precious freedoms. Masons are taught allegiance to their country and obedience to its laws. They are encouraged to discharge their civic duties and promote peace and good order in society.
Masonry is Charitable
Masons value hard work and independence, but they are unselfish, charitable to all, and ready to assist their Brother Masons. Freemasonry supports many charities, including homes for the aged, blood programs for the sick, and scholarships for the youth. We contribute millions of dollars per day to charities in Virginia and around the country.
Masonry is for the Whole Family
A Mason strives to be a good husband, a good father, a good son, and a good neighbor. We socialize with our Lodge brothers and conduct many events to involve the entire family. In addition to Masonic Lodges, there are various affiliated organizations – including the DeMolay for boys and young men aged 12 to 21, the Job’s Daughters and the Rainbow for Girls aged 10 to 20, and the Eastern Star for the ladies.
Masonry has a Purpose
Our purpose is enjoying fellowship, building life-long friendships, and strengthening and improving our character. We do not compete to be better than one another; we compete to be better than we now are.
Popular Misconceptions
“I don’t have time to join.”
Fact: You are only expected to be as active as your circumstances permit. While you are raising family and trying to get ahead in your career, your time may be limited. At other periods, you may have more time and become more active. Of course, if you wish, you could find a Masonic event – a meeting, a dinner, an educational program, orange. community service project – every day. But most of the Brethren will attend their monthly Lodge meeting.
“I am going to be required to commit long tracts of complex text to memory.”
Fact: There is a modest amount of memory work; but it isn’t overwhelming. Even men in their latter years do not have a problem.
“Masonry is a ‘Secret Society’.”
Fact: Information about Masonic principles, purposes, and charities are available in books and on the Internet. Prominent Masonic markings appear on Masonic Halls, and many Masons wear distinctive Masonic jewelry.
“I can’t afford to be a Mason.”
Fact: It is deliberately quite inexpensive. Masonry strives to see that members receive the benefits of Masonic brotherhood regardless of their occupation or economic status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do you become a member:
A: Freemasons do not actively solicit members. A candidate must apply of his own free will and accord. A “petition” for membership can be obtained from any Freemason, and is submitted to a Lodge near your home. You will soon be visited by Freemasons who will answer the questions you or your wife may have. You will next be scheduled to receive the first of the three degrees of Freemasonry. Upon completion of the last of these degrees, you will be a Brother Master Mason.
Q: What are its principal teachings?
A: Brotherly love, relief, and truth. It seeks to make good men better.
Q: Is Freemasonry a religion?
A: No. It is open to men of all religions, requiring only the belief in a Supreme Being.
Q: Is Freemasonry political?
A: No. The discussion of partisan politics in Lodge is forbidden, but Masons are encouraged to vote and be good citizens.
Q: What is a “Lodge”?
A: It is the individual local unit of Freemasonry. Lodges are found in almost every community. There are over 40,000 Masons in over 300 Lodges in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Q: Who is the head of the Masons in the United States?
A: No one. Each state has an independent Grand Lodge headed by a Grand Master.