What is Freemasonry? – free·ma·son·ry. Definition: One of the worlds oldest secular fraternities. It is an organisation of men who believe that the worth of a man can be measured . . . not by wealth or by fame, but by his deeds, character and by his love for others. Freemasonry is a mutual society concerned with the moral and spiritual well-being of its members and their families. Unlike other mutual organisations which are often geared towards the social and financial security of their members, it is a secular society of like minded men from all faiths and backgrounds who follow a moral and ethical approach to life, a society where religious and political discussion in a Lodge is forbidden.

Freemasonry: What is it all about?
Freemasonry: What is it all about? A video by the United Grand Lodge of England

Inside the Lodge: Freemasonry uses allegorical dramas which follow ancient forms. These ceremonies use stonemasons’ customs and tools to teach moral lessons and develop self-knowledge. Freemasonry is not a religion. During a Lodge meeting prayers are said and The Bible has a very prominent role much like in a court, a local council or a school governors meeting, where prayers are said to remind us to uphold moral & ethical virtues in all things.

Outside the Lodge: Freemasonry encourages its members to support the community and the welfare of their fellow men, fellow Masons and their families in distress or hardship, and raising money for charity. All of this is done within a moral and ethical framework. From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged and fund-raising benefits national and local charities. For example, read about How Warwickshire Freemasons support The Birmingham Settlement.

In some ways Freemasonry can be considered more of social club because the primary goal of Freemasonry is fellowship. A meal is usually shared before or after a lodge meeting, either in the lodge building or at a nearby restaurant. There are also many social activities which involve family and friends. For many Masons this fellowship is what sets the fraternity apart. Some place great store in the ritual and the moral lessons contained with in. Some regard Freemasonry as a hobby, for others it is a way of life. One thing is for sure… Freemasonry is enjoyable.

Freemasonry brings huge rewards to those who join. These rewards are spiritual, rather than financial and you should not expect any financial gain from your membership. Freemasonry is a journey of enlightenment and spiritual self-fulfilment. Membership of the Masonic fraternity aids your ability to feel happy and content through your own efforts. Freemasonry does not exist to assist its members in their business or employment. Freemasonry has no grand designs, apart from ‘being happy and communicating happiness’, something our Lodge is particularly good at!

Freemasonry embraces men from a wide variety of backgrounds with an equally wide range of interests and abilities. It is difficult to accurately define a ‘typical Mason.’ However, all Freemasons are bound together by their belief in a ‘Supreme Being’ and the three core principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

Hopefully the above has answer the question: ‘What is Freemasonry?‘ If not why not have a look at our ‘What is a Freemason’ page or contact us to find out some more. If you are considering how to be a Freemason contact us or have a look at ‘how I became a Freemason’ or our ‘guide to becoming a Freemason‘.

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