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Edmonton Latymer Lodge No 5026
Consecrated on 30 October 1928
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What is Freemasonry ?
(This is from a leaflet published by the Board of General Purposes of the United
Grand Lodge of England based in Great Queen Street, London, in 1984. )
Introduction
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. This leaflet
is intended to explain Freemasonry as it is practised under the United Grand Lodge
of England, which administers Lodges of Freemasons in England and Wales and in many
places overseas. The explanation may correct some misconceptions. Freemasonry is
a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught
its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms and use stonemasons'
customs and tools as allegorical guides.
The Essential Qualification for Membership
The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief
in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil
this essential qualification and are of good repute.
Freemasonry and Religion
Freemasonry is 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 does not allow religion to be discussed at its meetings.
The Three Great Principles
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans,
the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given
to national and local charities.
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which
a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members'
duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their private and public
responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of their membership to promote his own
or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and
is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty
as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any
attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary
to this prime duty.
Secrecy
The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of recognition.
It is not a secret society, since all members are free to acknowledge their membership
and will do so in response to inquiries for respectable reasons. Its constitutions
and rules are available to the public. There is no secret about any of its aims
and principles. Like many other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs
as private matters for its members.
Freemasonry and Politics
Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings
is forbidden.
Other Masonic Bodies
Freemasonry is practised under many independent Grand Lodges with standards similar
to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England. There are some Grand Lodges and
other apparently masonic bodies which do not meet these standards, for example which
do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or which allow or encourage their members
to participate in political matters. These Grand Lodges and bodies are not recognised
by the United Grand Lodge of England as being masonically regular, and masonic contact
with them is forbidden.
Conclusion
A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to God (by whatever name he is known)
through his faith and religious practice; and then, without detriment to his family
and those dependent on him, to his neighbour through charity and service.
None of these ideas is exclusively Masonic, but all should be universally acceptable.
Freemasons are expected to follow them.
