What is Freemasonry
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest fraternal societies. It is made up of men who are concerned with moral and spiritual values and who pursue a way of life that complements their religious, family and community affiliations. They seek a better way of life and treat all men as equal regardless of race, religion or social standing.
Freemasonry requires that Candidates hold a belief in the Divine Creating God Who is Creator of the Universe and Giver of its life. The Masonic Ritual explains and teaches that Faith in the Divine is given expression in the life of the man who acknowledges his dependence on God by invoking His aid on all his undertakings, and who prays to the Almighty Creator for guidance to live faithfully in His service.
This is further explained in the Masonic Ritual as the loving relationship a Freemason has with the Almighty Creator in which the Freemason prays to the Almighty for His continual guidance and "Divine Wisdom". He prays for the "grace" that his life will "unfold the beauties of true godliness" to the honour and glory of the Creator's Holy Name. This, therefore requires that whatever a man's creed may be it shall clearly state that, by whatever name, the Divine is known to him as the Creator and Giver of Life. Those writings which reveal the Divine Creator, His works and His Will for mankind are deemed Sacred Writings (Volumes of the Sacred Law) for Freemasonry. While Freemasons hold religious beliefs they do not promote a particular religion.
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:
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Brotherly Love - Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.
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Relief - Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
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Truth - Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.
Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.
What Freemasonry is Not
Freemasonry is NOT not a Religion. Nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It emphasizes secularism by teaching respect for and tolerance towards all religions.
Freemasonry is NOT a political party or organization. It reminds members of the filial affection one should always have for the Land of their birth, to remain loyal to the laws of the land which, for the time being, may be the place of their residence, or afford them protection.
Freemasonry is NOT a secret society. There is nothing secret or secretive about Freemasonry. Freemasonry does not conceal the time and place of its meeting nor does a member hide the fact of his membership. Like many other Societies it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters of concern only for its members. There is no secret about its aims & principles. Copies of its Constitutions and Rules can be obtained by interested members of the public from its offices.
Freemasonry is NOT a social club. However, it provides the means of socialising among its members, which consists of a cross section of society drawn from all walks of life who meet on an equal · footing. It also involves the families of members on such social occasions.