What Is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a voluntary, fraternal organization of men devoted to moral growth, self-improvement, and service to humanity. Its symbolic roots trace back to the stonemasons’ guilds of the Middle Ages, but its purpose is timeless — to build character, not cathedrals.
Through ritual, symbolism, and fellowship, Freemasonry teaches lessons in ethics, integrity, and compassion. A Mason strives to improve himself — not for privilege or power, but to become a better father, husband, friend, and citizen.
Is Freemasonry a Religion?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor does it replace or compete with one.
Masons come from many faiths and are encouraged to practice their own beliefs faithfully. The only spiritual requirement is belief in a Supreme Being — the “Great Architect of the Universe.”
Freemasonry teaches moral lessons, not theology.
It does not discuss religious doctrine or promise salvation. Instead, it helps men live the virtues their own faith already upholds — honesty, compassion, humility, and service to others.
What Freemasonry Is Not
Freemasonry has inspired myths for centuries. Here’s the truth:
- Not a secret society. Lodge locations, officers, and charitable works are public. The few “secrets” it keeps are traditional signs and words of recognition passed down from the old stone builders.
- Not a religion. Masonry unites men of faith; it doesn’t replace their faith.
- Not political. Debates on politics or religion are forbidden within the Lodge to preserve harmony.
- Not elitist. Freemasonry welcomes men from every walk of life who live by good character.
- Not a conspiracy. Its focus is inward — on self-improvement, fellowship, and service.
Freemasonry’s goal is simple: to help good men become better men and, through them, build stronger communities.
Freemasonry and Leadership: A Legacy in Building Nations
Freemasonry’s ideals of equality, integrity, and service have guided men who shaped history.
George Washington, initiated in Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4, remained an active Mason throughout his life. In 1793, as President, he laid the cornerstone of the United States Capitol in a Masonic ceremony attended by local brethren. At his funeral in 1799, Masonic rites were performed — a testament to the Craft’s presence in the nation’s founding era.
Other American Masons included Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Paul Revere, and many of Washington’s generals. While Masonry did not found the United States, its principles — liberty, equality, and moral duty — resonated deeply with the Enlightenment ideals that helped shape the Republic.
Today, Freemasonry continues to inspire men to lead with integrity and serve with humility.
The Three Great Tenets of Freemasonry
Brotherly Love
Strength begins with kindness. Brotherly Love is respect, empathy, and compassion in action. Within a Lodge, it means mutual support; beyond it, it means treating all people with dignity and fairness.
Relief
Relief is charity and service. Masons pledge to ease suffering, support those in need, and lend a helping hand wherever possible. It is compassion turned into action.
Truth
Truth is the cornerstone of character — honesty in word, integrity in deed, and humility in learning. A Mason strives to live truthfully, guided by conscience rather than convenience.
Why Become a Freemason?
Men join Freemasonry for many reasons, but they stay because of what they find:
- Brotherhood: Genuine friendship among men who meet as equals.
- Tradition: Connection to centuries of moral philosophy and symbolism.
- Growth: A lifelong path of personal development and reflection.
- Service: A chance to make a difference quietly and meaningfully.
- Perspective: A reminder that success is measured by integrity and compassion, not wealth or title.
Freemasonry offers no shortcuts, only a steady light to help men build better lives.
How Does a Man Join?
Freemasonry does not recruit — the journey begins with curiosity and a question.
If you are a man of good moral character, believe in a Supreme Being, and wish to improve yourself and your community, you are welcome to inquire. There is no secret invitation or hidden doorway — simply reach out and ask.
You may:
- Speak with a Freemason you know personally.
- Contact your local Lodge or Grand Lodge directly.
- Submit an inquiry through this website.
A Lodge member will guide you through the process respectfully and at your own pace — no pressure, only Brotherhood waiting to be discovered.
To Be One, Ask One. — 2B1ASK1
The Heart of the Craft
Freemasonry is a fellowship of builders — not of stone, but of character.
Its tools are symbolic, its purpose enduring: to shape better men, one degree at a time.
A Mason learns that the temple he builds is within himself — a structure of virtue, compassion, and truth. In doing so, he strengthens his family, his Lodge, and his community.
Freemasonry is a call to build, to serve, and to live honorably. Its light is open to all who seek it.
