What is Freemasonry

A unique institution with global membership

People from all walks of life become Freemasons for a variety of reasons. Some are attracted by the valuable work that the movement performs in raising money for charity. A proportion of these funds is used to assist Freemasons and their dependents in times of need, particularly the sick and the elderly, but the greater part goes to non Masonic charities - local, national and international. Freemasons also assist the community in more direct ways, such as carrying out voluntary work. Others become Freemasons because of the unique fellowship it provides. Visit a Masonic lodge anywhere in the country – or indeed, the world – and you are greeted as an old friend. Freemasonry is the ultimate leveller, a community where friendship and goodwill are paramount.

Is Freemasonry a political or religious organisation?

Absolutley not! Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations.

Personal satisfaction not personal gain

It has been said that some people become Freemasons for personal benefit. This statement is true, but for the wrong reasons. The personal gain is in experiencing the warmth of an honourable society and being part of an organisation that works hard to help the less fortunate of the world. Freemasonry does ask its members to give as freely as they can to charity. How often have we told ourselves that we really should send money to help with some famine or other disaster we have seen on TV, only to forget all about it in the rush of everyday life? Freemasonry provides a structured channel for fundraising from its members and reacts quickly when help is needed urgently.

Funny handshakes and outlandish dress styles?

Freemasonry has been in existence for over 300 years and over this time has developed a pattern of rituals. They are no more outlandish than ceremonies such as the State Opening of Parliament and, like this event, they perform a valuable function in reminding members of the heritage and standards they are expected to maintain. Masonic symbolism has a purpose, and once people become Freemasons and understand the context of the rituals and symbolism, they no longer seem quirky.

Handshakes don’t give an unfair advantage

The handshakes are signs used within Masonic ceremonies. Certainly they can be used in everyday society, but to expect preferential treatment or some other sort of advantage from fellow Freemasons met in this way is both misguided and contrary to one of the basic principles of the organisation. Rather than spend your money on Masonic membership fees, you’d be better off buying a lottery ticket.  Has anyone ever used their membership of Freemasonry to try to gain personal benefit? Of course there have been cases. But that is true of just about every group, society or body where men get together. How many business deals are cooked up on the golf course? The difference is that, unlike the golf club, Freemasonry has a system of morality that says 'no' to this.

Why the mystery?

If Freemasonry has nothing to hide, why the mystery? The ‘mysteries’ that are revealed to members as they progress are nothing more sinister than sound advice that helps them to lead a balanced life, for example through thinking about things like the welfare of others. Similarly, Masonic passwords are simply keys to the doors of the different levels within Freemasonry. Learning these principles on a step by step basis makes them easier to absorb and understand. Masonic ceremonies are like short morality plays in which members play different parts. Like any form of theatre, it demands the learning of words and the movements on stage. Through taking part in these ceremonies, Freemasons come to understand the truths that they contain.

So what is involved?

So do you need the acting skills of a West End star to become a Freemason? Certainly not. In the convivial atmosphere of a Masonic meeting, members soon learn to relax and enjoy taking part in something rather special. It’s a place where everyone can be themselves and contribute in a way that suits their own personality. Many members actually find that learning and performing these rituals is a useful programme of self development. For those that want to do it, Freemasonry also provides the opportunity to practise after-dinner speaking with a totally friendly audience.

Our Lodge has a 'dress code' which requests that members wear a dark lounge suit, shirt with a white collar, a black tie and black shoes. In time, certain items of regalia will be required, which initially will not be expensive, and often, there is the opportunity to buy used regalia at very little cost.

How time consuming is it?

The Forest of Galtres Lodge meets eight times a year. The formal part of the proceedings (the ceremonies) usually start at 7pm, followed by a dinner and a few (hopefully short) speeches. You may choose to dine with the rest of the Lodge or go home after the Lodge meeting, again this is your choice and there will never be any pressure on you to stay to eat. If you invite any Masonic guests, it is normal that, as their host, you would pay their dining fee, which is normally £13 - £15.

Freemasons also gain great pleasure in visiting lodges other than their own, making new friends and seeing different traditions followed. While there are numerous opportunities to engage in Masonic pursuits, Freemasonry encourages its members to live well rounded lives and stresses that family and personal affairs must always come first.

Wives and partners matter to Freemasons

In the interests of domestic harmony, people interested in becoming Freemasons are strongly recommended to bring their wife/partner into the picture at the earliest possible stage. At the Forest of Galtres Lodge we organise open days so that visitors can see where ceremonies take place and learn more about them. There are also entertaining lectures, usually held inside the Lodge rooms, for anyone interested in learning more about Freemasonry. There are also a number of informal social events throughout the year where you can meet existing Lodge members and their families.

Not just for the well heeled

What about the cost? Membership subscriptions compare favourably with everyday sports and social clubs. Freemasonry is not a rich man’s hobby but an affordable and rewarding pastime.

From time to time, a special evening or daytime event may be organised, specifically to raise money for charity. You will never be pressurised into attending these or to donate money at these events if you are unable to, or prefer not to. However, it is hoped that you will participate in the Lodge's efforts to raise money for the various charities we adopt.

What else?

What else is involved in becoming a Freemason? You have to be male, aged 21 or over and be of good character (which means not having any criminal convictions). You must also believe in a Supreme Being, but Freemasonry is not a religion; men from a variety of faiths belong.