About Freemasons
- Freemasonry is the one of the world’s oldest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations
- There are over 200,000 Freemasons meeting in more than 7,000 Masonic lodges throughout England and Wales. Our values are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasonry offers the opportunity of meeting a wide variety of people from the local community in a very sociable environment.
- It consists of men brought together for the sake of mutual intellectual, social and moral improvement. We do this through participation in dramatic ceremonial plays. It recognises no distinction of religion and emphasises the duties of citizenship. Religious or political discussions are not permitted in our meetings. It offers no monetary advantages. It supports a wide range of charities, both Masonic and non-Masonic.
-
United Grand Lodge of England
Mission Statement 2021
WHAT WE ARE (Purpose)
We are a unique members’ organisation which has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, we comprise members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds. We meet in our individual Lodges throughout the country where we have ceremonial traditions which encourage us both to be more tolerant and respectful and actively to fulfil our civic and charitable responsibilities; we also make time to eat, drink and meet together, and form lifelong friendships.
WHAT WE AIM FOR (Vision)
To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Charity – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join.
HOW WE WILL ACHIEVE THIS (Mission)
Over the next 7 years, we will enhance our reputation as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join and broaden our membership across all age groups.
OUR VALUES
INTEGRITY: Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.
FRIENDSHIP: One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology. It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
RESPECT: With a membership of more than 200,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society
CHARITY: Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry. The organisation provides a support structure that helps members make positive contributions to communities and worthwhile causes through fundraising events or volunteer work.
The Three Great Principles:
For many years, Freemasons have followed three great principles which represent a way of achieving higher standards in life – Respecting everyone, looking after others and being honest.
1. Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to others.
2. Freemasons are taught to practice charity, and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
3. Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.
For more Frequently Asked Questions, please see here.
Accordion Title
Accordion Content
So, who becomes a Freemason?
Freemasonry is open to all men of over 18 years of age, regardless of social economic background, race, or religion. The very nature of freemasonry is to regard the whole human species as one family. You do not need to be a professional in any way shape or form, we have a diverse selection of people in our lodge, from carpenters to dentists, sales people to engineers, unemployed to retired.
Personal satisfaction, not personal gain
Rumors and false information are rife in all walks of life, Freemasonry is no different. It has been said time and time again that some people become Freemasons for personal benefit. The only personal gain our members enjoy is sense of well-being in being part of an honourable society, and part of an organistation who work tireless to help those that are less fortunate.
Freemasonry is one of the most charitable organisations in the land, and as members we give as freely as possible to local, national, and international causes. We provide a structure for fundraising and charitable giving through the province of Leicestershire & Rutland or through individual lodges.
All i read about is funny handshakes and peculiar dress styles!
Freemasonry has been in existence for over 300 years, and during that time we have developed the masonic ritual through symbolism, following the patterns of progression as once were known and practiced by the stone masons of old. Everything we do is fun, and you chose to be involved in as little or as much as possible. Becoming a Freemason you will soon understand the masonic symbolism and how they form part of our meetings.
Is it time consuming, and does it cost much?
As we have mentioned before, you can be involved as much or as little as you like. Within the year are certain social events, all of which are completely down to the individual if they wish to attend. We also hold rehearsals and instructional sessions for those members who wish to learn more, and visiting other lodges is always a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Membership is an annual subscription, which compares favourably with everyday sports and social clubs. Freemasonry is certainly not a rich mans hobby, but an affordable and rewarding way having fun.