Membership
Discover Freemasonry
What Freemasonry is, what membership involves, and how to take the first step.
Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. It teaches self-knowledge through a series of ritual dramas, using the stonemasons' craft as allegory, and encourages charity, integrity, and friendship. It is not a religion and takes no political position.
What membership involves
Members attend regular lodge meetings, which follow an ancient form of ceremony, and join together at a dinner — the festive board — afterwards. Beyond the meetings, members support charitable causes and take part in the social life of their lodge. As with any commitment, what you get out of it is closely related to what you put in.
Why join?
Men join Freemasonry for many reasons: friendship, an interest in history and ceremony, a wish to contribute to charitable work, or simply curiosity about a society that has existed for centuries. Membership is open to men of good character who believe in a Supreme Being; the Lodge does not discriminate on grounds of race, religion, or occupation.
How to join
The first step is simply to express interest. You do not need to know a member — an informal enquiry to the Secretary is welcome. The usual process is:
- An informal conversation, often over a cup of coffee.
- A visit to the Lodge — you can meet the members and see a meeting place before anything is decided.
- A formal application, proposed and seconded by members of the Lodge.
- Interview and admission ceremonies, which take place over time.
If you would like to begin that conversation, use the contact form and choose the membership enquiry type.
Commitments
Membership involves regular attendance where possible, subscriptions (fees) set by the Lodge, and time for meetings and ceremonies. The candidate also makes promises — obligations — which bind him to certain standards of conduct. These are explained fully before any commitment is required.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Freemasonry a religion?
- No. It expects members to believe in a Supreme Being but teaches no theology of its own.
- Do I need to be invited?
- No. Enquiries from men who do not know a member are welcome.
- What if I visit and decide not to continue?
- Nothing is owed. Visiting carries no obligation.
- How much does it cost?
- Subscriptions and fees are set by the Lodge and explained at enquiry stage. Freemasonry should not be a financial burden.