Introduction
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal
societies. The following information is intended to explain
Freemasonry as it is practised under the United Grand Lodge
of England, which administers Lodges of Freemasons in England
and Wales and in many places overseas.
The explanation may correct some misconceptions.
Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and
spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a
series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms, and use
stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides.
The Essential Qualification for Membership
The essential qualification for admission into and continuing
membership is a belief in a Supreme Being.
Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can
fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good repute.
Freemasonry and Religion
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
meeting.
The Three Great Principles
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:
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Brotherly
Love |
Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect
for the opinions of others and behave with kindness
and understanding to his fellow creatures. |
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Relief |
Freemasons are taught to practise 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.
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Truth |
Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral
standards and aiming to achieve them in their
own lives. |
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Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way
of achieving higher standards in life.
Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with
the care of orphans, the sick and the aged.
This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given
to national and local charities.
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law
of the country in which a man works and lives.
Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members'
duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling
their public and private responsibilities.
The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own
or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests
is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he
sought admission to Freemasonry.
His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation
to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason
who as acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this
prime duty.
Secrecy
The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional
modes of recognition. It is not a secret society, since all
members are free to acknowledge their membership and will
do so in response to enquiries for respectable reasons. Its
constitutions and rules are available to the public. There
is no secret about any of its aims and principles. Like many
other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as
private matters for its members.
Freemasonry and Politics
Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics
at Masonic meetings is forbidden.
Other Masonic Bodies
Freemasonry is practised under many independent Grand Lodges
with standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge
of England.
There are some Grand Lodges and other apparently Masonic
bodies that do not meet these standards, e.g. that do not
require a belief in a Supreme Being, or that allow or encourage
their members as such to participate in political matters.
These Grand Lodges and bodies are not recognised by the United
Grand Lodge of England as being Masonically regular, and Masonic
contact with them is forbidden.
Conclusion
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A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first
to his God (by whatever name he is known) 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.
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None of these ideas is exclusively Masonic, but
all should be universally acceptable. Freemasons
are expected to follow them. |
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