What is Freemasonry?
What is the purpose of Freemasonry?
A common expression used to describe Freemasonry is that it exists to "make good men better." To this end, the purpose of Freemasonry is to teach universal ethical principles that guide all good men. It teaches kindness in the home, honesty in business, courtesy in society, fairness in work, pity and concern for the unfortunate, resistance toward evil, help for the weak, forgiveness for the penitent, love for one another, and above all, reverence and love for God. These principles are so universal to the basis of a working society, that they are essential way of life for each of its members.
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Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization. It is founded upon timeless principles of tolerance, care, kindness, honesty and trust. As Freemasons, we live by an ethical and moral code that creates an atmosphere where friendship and understanding can grow among men of every religion, race and culture.
Freemasonry is a system of morality and ethics that transcends political, racial, financial and secular boundaries. It is a belief that all men are created equal, and all deserve respect, love, relief and charity. It is a voluntary association of men who have adopted its teachings as a way of life, and seek to improve themselves in their daily existence. It is a pursuit of excellence in a world where excellence seems unattainable. Teaching morality through symbolism and allegory, its rites and ceremonies instruct its members to cherish the tenets of the 'Brotherhood of Man, under the Fatherhood of God'.
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It is sometimes easier to tell non-Masons what Freemasonry is not. It is NOT an organization which solicits membership - all men must come to Freemasonry of their own free will and accord. It is NOT an insurance organization or a benefit society. It is NOT a religion, a creed or a religious order. It is NOT a charity, but recognizes that the tenet of Charity as a foundation of love for humanity is a duty for all Masons. It is NOT organized for profit and no member may profit from his association with the Fraternity, upon penalty of expulsion. It does NOT dictate to any man as to his religious or secular beliefs and is NOT a substitute for the connection any man has to his God. It is NEVER a forum for discussion of religion, politics, or other partisan affairs. Finally, it is NOT a secret society as it does not conceal its existence, or its purpose.
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Freemasonry seeks to improve all men who would believe that there is a fundamental good in everyone who is not willing to live to its precepts.
All you need to do is ask!
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If you would like to request an application to petition a lodge for membership, first read the notes below and then complete the application and send it to: Roger Williams Secretary to start the process.
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You must be able to meet the following requirements to start your journey in Freemasonry:
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Be a man, of 18 years of age or older;
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Believe in a Supreme Being;
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Live an ethical and moral life;
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Have a strong interest in the Fraternity and desire to participate in its charities and its activities.
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We believe that men are first made Masons in their hearts, then they ask to join our Fraternity. Freemasonry will take these men - good in their communities - and help them become better men.
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Each man brings something different into the Fraternity, as different as the types of men that become Masons. But each shares a common core of beliefs and of dreams; each believes that, in a small way, by their actions, they help make their world, their communities and themselves better.
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Once we receive your application, an officer of the Lodge will contact you to schedule a meeting. A committee from the Lodge will then meet with you and report back to the Lodge and have your application voted upon. If you receive a favorable ballot, you will be notified when the degrees begin. You and other candidates must learn a portion of what will be taking place during your degrees.
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How do you become a Freemason?
Speak with Honesty
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Think with Sincerity
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Act with Integrity
