What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is the world’s oldest and largest Fraternity. Its history and tradition date to antiquity. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Its bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most devise political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor a place for worship. Instead, it is a friend of all religions which are based on the belief in one God.
What Freemasons Do
Freemasons are respectable citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which they live. They are men of charity and good works. They remain unchallenged as “the world’s greatest philanthropy!”
The Freemasons of America contribute more than one million dollars every day to charitable causes which they, alone, have established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique and honorable Fraternity.
Considering Membership?
Anyone seeking membership in Freemasonry must ask a Masonic friend to recommend him. He must sign a Petition, stating his age, occupation and place of residence. After the character of the petitioner has been established, the members of the Lodge will vote on his acceptance.
Qualifications
Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of “making good men better.” Only individuals believed to be of the finest character are favorably considered for membership. Every applicant must advocate his belief in one God (atheists are not accepted into the Fraternity) and respect for his fellow man.
What to do next?
After you have spoken with a Masonic friend (or the lodge secretary) and have realized in your heart that you desire to join our fraternity, then please visit your local lodge during one of their meeting nights. Most lodges will sit down together before the meeting and take time to catch up on each other’s lives and have some refreshment. This will give you an opportunity to meet some of the other Masons and turn in your petition.
The phrasing above comes from the Grand Lodge of Alabama website. If you wish to view the original web pages from the Grand Lodge site then please click HERE