What is Freemasonry
Perhaps it may be defined as a a system of morality, based in allegories and illustrated by symbols. Many have defined it as a system of moral instruction conveyed in a peculiar ceremonial manner. It is a course of moral and philosophical instruction illustrated by hieroglyphics and taught according to ancient usage by types, emblems, and allegorical figures.
Freemasonry means many things to many different men.
Freemasonry is a worldwide organization of men, believing in the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man, using building symbolism as a basis for moral instruction, and working towards the betterment of mankind. It is a voluntary organization, composed of men of good character and reputation, who believe in the existence of a Supreme Being and the immortality of the soul.
Freemasonry is not a religion, but it teaches religious values. It is not a substitute for religion, but it encourages its members to be active in the religion of their choice. It teaches the practice of the moral virtues of Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice. Its tenets are Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Its cardinal virtues are Faith, Hope, and Charity.
Freemasonry seeks to make good men better by teaching its members to be faithful to God, their country, their families, and their friends; to be honest in business, courteous in society, and fair in all their dealings with mankind.
Origins
What is Freemasonry and what are its objectives?
Freemasonry is the world’s oldest and largest fraternity. It is a society of men dedicated to universal brotherhood, based on a moral code of principles which are acceptable to all good men.
Freemasonry’s objective is to promote the moral and personal development of its members and through them to make a contribution to society at large. Freemasonry’s members are taught to practice charity and benevolence, to maintain high moral standards, and to strive for the improvement of themselves and those around them.
The fraternity’s foundation is based upon the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These tenets are exemplified in every Masonic Lodge throughout the world.
Freemasonry is not a secret society, but rather a society with secrets. Its rituals and ceremonies are of ancient origin and symbolic in nature. They are designed to teach moral lessons and to convey knowledge in a manner that has been preserved through centuries.
The roots of Freemasonry as we know it today can be traced to the medieval stonemasons who built the great cathedrals and castles of Europe. These operative masons formed guilds to regulate their craft and protect their trade secrets. Over time, these operative lodges began to accept non-working, or “speculative,” members who were interested in the moral and philosophical teachings of the craft rather than its physical labor.
In 1717, four London lodges united to form the first Grand Lodge, which marked the beginning of organized Freemasonry as we know it today.
Purpose
What does Freemasonry do?
Masons try to help each other to practice charity, to live better lives, and to support society through community involvement, moral living, and self-improvement.
Members give freely of their time, efforts, and resources to help those less fortunate, both within and outside the fraternity. Masons are involved in countless projects to advance good will and quality in life, from giving Masonic scholarships to helping hospitals, building ramps for the disabled, and supporting local charities.
Freemasonry teaches through allegory (figurative illustration) and symbolism, using building analogies and metaphors. Its ceremonies, or rituals, help members internalize these moral lessons and encourage contemplation of one’s duty to God, neighbor, and self.
The Masonic Fraternity of Ontario, among others, supports numerous charitable causes, including children’s hospitals, homes for the aged, and various community projects. Masonic charities contribute millions of dollars every year to worthy causes, and members contribute countless volunteer hours.
The lessons of Freemasonry are intended to help men become better citizens, better fathers, better husbands, and better neighbors. Masons are taught to practice tolerance, respect for others, and to take an active role in their communities.
Our Ritual
Your progression through our Rituals
The Masonic journey consists of three principal degrees, which together make up what is known as “Craft Masonry.” The three Degrees are called the “Entered Apprentice,” the “Fellow Craft,” and the “Master Mason.”
When a man first becomes a Mason, he is received with dignity and is initiated into the ancient Entered Apprentice Degree, which symbolizes the beginning of his journey toward enlightenment.
The Fellow Craft Degree represents the stage of advancement in learning and understanding, emphasizing the importance of education and the liberal arts and sciences.
The Master Mason Degree symbolizes maturity and wisdom. It teaches fidelity, integrity, and the immortality of the soul. This final degree of Craft Masonry completes the moral and spiritual journey that began with the first step of initiation.
Throughout this progression, the candidate is taught moral lessons and the building of his personal “spiritual temple.” Each of the three Degrees emphasizes the importance of self-improvement, truth, and moral uprightness.
Becoming a Member
How do I become a member?
One of the most important Masonic principles is that membership cannot be solicited. A man must seek Freemasonry of his own free will and accord, motivated by a sincere desire for self-improvement and service to others.
To become a Mason, a man must:
- Be of good moral character.
- Believe in a Supreme Being.
- Be recommended by two Masons in good standing.
After expressing interest, an applicant will go through an interview process to ensure he understands the obligations and responsibilities of membership. Once accepted, he will begin his journey through the three degrees of Freemasonry.
What Freemasonry expects of its members
Freemasonry expects its members to:
- Practice brotherly love, relief, and truth.
- Maintain high moral standards.
- Support family, community, and country.
- Be charitable and tolerant of others’ beliefs.
- Seek personal growth through knowledge and moral improvement.
Freemasonry encourages men to think for themselves, to act with integrity, and to be of service to others. Before being initiated, every applicant is made to declare that he believes in a Supreme Being. Freemasonry unites men of every country, sect, and opinion, and conciliates true friendship among those who might otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance.
It is one of the few organizations in the world that brings together men of differing backgrounds, beliefs, and social positions, teaching them to meet upon the level and part upon the square.
Conclusion
Freemasonry is an organization that seeks to enhance the character of men by encouraging self-improvement, integrity, and the love of mankind. It has existed for several centuries and will continue to exist as long as there are men who desire fellowship, knowledge, and to make the world a better place.