FAQ's

What is Freemasonry?

It is a most happy association of friends which provides interest, a discipline of life, many social activities for men and their families and has a long history of Charitable support for less fortunate members of our society. All this is combined with a fascinating history goinf back almost three hundred years. To be more specific:
Freemasonry is open to men of good reputation, irrespective of race or creed, provided they believe in a Supreme Being. This belief is an essential qualification for admission and continued membership. Freemasonry teaches moral lessons and self-knowledge through participation in a progression of allegorical two-part plays, which are learnt by heart and performed within each Lodge. Freemasonry offers its members 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 teaches and practices concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need.

Is Freemasonry a Religion?

Freemasonary is emphatically not a religion. Freemasonary requires a belief in God and its principles are common to many of the world's great religions. Freemasonry does not try to replace religion or substitute for it. Every candidate is exhorted to practise his religion and to regard its holy book as the unerring standard of truth. Freemasonry does not instruct its members in what religious beliefs should be, nor does it offer sacraments. Thus Freemasonry brings men of different faiths together in a unique way to share a happy and rewarding fellowship with one another.

Does Freemasonry donate money to Charity?

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities, and since its inception it has provided support for many widows and orphans of Freemasons as well as others in the community. All monies raised for charity are drawn from amongst Freemasons, their families and friends, while grants and donations are made to Masonic and Non-masonic charities alike. Over the past five years Freemasonry has raised more than £75m for a wide range of charitable purposes including those involved in medical research, community care, education and work with young people.

Is Freemasonry a secret society?

Freemasonry is not a secret society. members are perfectly free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in answer to any reasonable enquiry. There is no secret about the aims and principles of the Order. The constitutions and rules are freely available. the local Public Library holds many fully descriptive Masonic books, available on inquiry. The internet has hundreds of web pages of information from all over the world. Lodge meetings, like meetings of many social and professional associations, are private occasions open only to members. Freemasons are encouraged to speak openly about their membership while remembering that they undertake not to use their membership for their own or anyone else's advancement.