Freemasonry is a fraternal organisation that provides its
members the opportunity to participate in a life-long journey of learning and
self-discovery and a deepening personal moral strength and compassion. Most
Masons find the experience both challenging and rewarding and above all,
enormously enjoyable.
The exact origin of Freemasonry is unclear however many of our symbols and
ceremonies are based on the practices of the ancient stonemasons’ guilds.
Members are taught our precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow
ancient forms, and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides.
Freemasons are taught an approach to life which seeks to reinforce
thoughtfulness for others, kindness in the community, honesty in business,
courtesy in society and fairness in all things. Members are urged to regard the
interests of the family as paramount but importantly Freemasonry also teaches
and practices concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those
in need.
Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can have a belief in a
Supreme Being and who are of good repute. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is
it a substitute for religion. Its essential qualification opens it to men of
many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It
does not allow religion to be discussed at its meetings. Freemasonry is
non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings is forbidden.
A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to his God through his faith and
religious practice; and then, without detriment to his family and those
dependent on him, to his neighbour through charity and service
What we do
Being a Freemason is about a number of things. It
provides guidance on the way to conduct one’s life in a moral and ethical way.
It can also provide an active social calendar to the member who wants to meet
new people. Whilst all lodges hold regular meetings, it is the global community
of Masonry that many members find the most fulfilling.
Apart from general business, the focal point of a Lodge Meeting will be a
ceremony to bring new members into Freemasonry and progress them through the
various levels in a Lodge. The ceremonies are a series of short plays which
symbolise progress through life and seek to communicate a series of moral
lessons and principles by which to live. A meeting will usually be followed by a
social gathering and formal meal at which a few short toasts are given.
Most Lodges hold social events. Many involve partners and families as well as
non-masons. A traditional lodge event is the “Ladies’ Festival” – which is
intended to thank the members’ partners, and particularly the Worshipful
Master’s wife, for all the support that they have given throughout the year.
Almost all events are linked to raising money for charity – local, national or
Masonic.
Outside the lodge, many members are involved with local charities and their
fund-raising efforts, many of which involve social events for all the family.
