People have their own reasons for becoming and enjoying being a Freemason. Many come for the brotherhood, whilst others come for self-improvement. You can complete an online application for membership HERE.
The following are some of the reasons given by members for entering into Freemasonry:
- Achievement: Progressing through the various offices within the Lodge to become Worshipful Master.
- Brotherhood: Making new friends and acquaintances from all walks of life, every background and age group.
- Charity: Being able to contribute to deserving causes, both Masonic and non-Masonic.
- Education: Learning from peers and mentors by practising ritual and making short speeches.
- Knowledge: Finding out about the history, mysteries and meanings of Freemasonry.
- Self improvement: Making a contribution to your family and society.
If these characteristics describe how you lead your life or the life you wish to attain, then Freemasonry may well be for you.
Our fraternity has a wonderful and interesting history, which dates back more than three centuries. We strive to live to the highest moral and social standards, treating others as we would wish to be treated.
(You can view a short video of a young Freemason here).
Your Commitment to Freemasonry
When you are accepted into Freemasonry there are a few commitments that you should understand if you wish to get the best out of our fraternal society, and at the same time, contribute to your Lodge, your Province and Freemasonry in general.
The criteria for acceptance
- You must be at least 21 years of age. (Unless you are the son of a Freemason or enter via the University Scheme).
- Be of sound character and judgement.
- Have a firm belief in a Supreme Being.
NB: This does not necessarily solely mean the Christian God. People from all religions are welcome, and you will at no time be asked to do, say, or partake in anything that in anyway goes against your faith.
We serve our Lodge by:
- Attending regularly and participating in the ceremonies through which the high moral standards to which we aspire are re-inforced
- Paying Lodge fees when required
- Keeping the few traditional Masonic forms of recognition within the confines of the Lodge
- Preserving harmony at our meetings
- Contributing regularly to our charities
- Joining in the social activities
We promise to support and serve our fellow members by:
- Respecting and supporting their family in time of need.
- Defending their good character in their absence
- Keeping their confidences – except anything contrary to the laws of the land.
Our Dress code
The dress code in most lodges is similar:
- a dark lounge suit
- an appropriate tie (ideally black)
- white shirt.
- white gloves.
- black shoes.
What can I expect if I want to join?
Starting out on your journey into Freemasonry can be an exciting time, but also a slow process, we need to see if you are the right sort of person that would benefit from joining Freemasonry and also allow you time to reflect on your choice of whether to proceed with your application.
Showing Your Interest
Your interest usually starts by talking to a family member, friend or colleague whom you already know to be a member. In some cases, you may not know anyone who is a Freemason, if this is true please submit your enquiry via our contact form and we will advise you as to the next step.
Once you have contacted the member, or we have connected you with a suitable member, we arrange a time for one or two of our Brothers to meet you (the Candidate) usually at the your home, or other suitable venue, to discuss the reasons why you wish to join and to discuss the purposes and values of Freemasonry. Leaflets or booklets may be left with you for further reading.
If, after allowing you plenty of time to digest what you have heard and thoroughly understand, you are still interested, this may be followed up by another meeting or telephone call, to answer any new questions you may have thought of since the initial meet. Sometimes you and your partner maybe invited to join some of the lodge members at a social event.
Your Application
If you decide that Freemasonry appeals to you and your way of life, the next step is to ask the Brother to be your ‘Proposer’. Your Proposer, along with another Brother (the ‘Seconder’ ) will put your application before the lodge for approval for ‘Initiation’.
A Lodge interview will be arranged, where you will be interviewed by the Master of the Lodge accompanied by the senior members. Here you will be asked questions about yourself and your reasons for wanting to join Freemasonry. They will make sure that you understand your financial obligation, including the joining fees and annual dues. The Gift Aid Scheme will be explained and the time requirement for each of the degrees, including practices and coaching, and for your regular Lodge attendance dates and timings (including practices). They will emphasise that a sustained commitment is expected from you.
If you are successful in your interview you will be put forward and balloted for by the brethren of the lodge and your details will be circulated before every lodge in the area.
Balloted for and accepted
Once you have been balloted for and accepted, you will be informed of the date when your ‘Entry’ into Freemasonry will take place. Your Proposer will ensure that this date is suitable for you, advise you on the required dress code, make sure you have the necessary dues and will meet you on the evening.
You will be introduced to the Master, the Director of Ceremonies, the Lodge Almoner and other Officers, as well as being introduced to the other members of your Lodge. You will be required to say a few words in response to a toast after your Intitation during the Festive Board.
You will also be introduced to your Mentor. Your Mentor will be available for guidance and to answer any questions that may arise. His role is to offer enthusiasm, support and assistance to ensure your continued masonic learning, interest and participation.