Freemasonry and Membership

Every man has his own reason for wanting to be a part of the greatest fraternity in the world. Regardless of your reason, you will benefit from membership because Freemasonry makes good men better. Look around our website and you will find much about our history, purpose, educational programs, character development and charity. In today’s society, men lead busier lives than ever. Many Brothers find Lodge meetings to be an excellent “break from life,” where everyday troubles can be forgotten and Brotherhood prevails. Whatever your reason, Freemasonry has something to offer nearly every man.

To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, one who believes in the existence of a Supreme Being, of good moral character, motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit, prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry, desirous of earning knowledge and willing to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity.

Our tradition is to wait for you to seek membership entirely of your own free will and accord. We do not actively solicit members. This doesn’t mean that you have to wait to be invited to join the Freemasons. Your interest is enough, if you meet the qualifications.

To start the process, you must first submit a petition for membership. This petition will be read at a meeting of the Lodge you are seeking to join. You will then be visited by a small committee from the Lodge who will ascertain your qualifications and answer any questions you or your family may have regarding Freemasonry. At the next meeting, the members will vote on your petition for membership. Once approved, you will be asked to attend three successive meetings, during which you will learn the teachings of Freemasonry. In ceremonies known as Degrees, you will assume your vows of membership. Once completed you will be a full member of your Lodge and pay the stated annual membership dues.

Freemasonry is a fraternity of brothers who share one common goal: to help each other become better men. We strengthen and improve our character by learning and practicing basic virtues of fraternal love, charity and truth. Our principles extend far beyond our interactions with each other, and we strive to apply them to our daily lives. All who join Freemasonry must declare their belief in the existence of a Supreme Being and practice their own personal faith, but the Fraternity is neither a religion nor a place to worship. Rather, it is a place where men of all monotheistic creeds can meet and focus on the great truths of peaceful human interaction that are common to all religions and practice Charity among others and the Community.

Hear what Benjamin Franklin has to say about Freemasonry.