Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Freemasonry means different things to each of those who join. For some, it’s about making new friends and acquaintances. For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and for society. But for most, it is an enjoyable hobby.
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies. Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry means different things to each of those who join.
For some, it’s about making new friends and acquaintances.
For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and for society.
But for most, it is an enjoyable hobby.
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations.
It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a variety of ceremonies.
Members are encouraged to be of high moral standing and are fully allowed to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What happens at a Lodge meeting?
The meetings, which like those of other groups, are open only to members, is normally in two parts.
First, there are normal administrative procedures such as:
• Minutes of the previous meeting
• Proposing and balloting for new members
• Discussing and voting on the annual accounts
• Masonic news and correspondence
• News about charitable work
Second, there are the ceremonies for:
• Admitting new members
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Progressing
• The annual installation of the Master of the Lodge and his Officers
Why do Freemasons take oaths?
New members make solemn promises concerning their behaviour both in society in general and in the Lodge.
Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other.
Freemasons also promise to support others in time of need but only in nso far as it does not conflict with their familial and public obligations.
Are Freemasons expected to give preference to fellow members?
Certainly not. This is against their professed moral code, and would be completely unacceptable.
Such behaviour could also cause the member to be excluded from the Lodge.
On joining, each new member states that he expects no material gain from membership.
Can anyone become a Freemason?
Yes – Freemasonry is open to people from all walks of life, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation or socio-economic position in society. The only requirement is to be male, but see below.
Are there women Freemasons?
Yes. Whilst UGLE, following the example of medieval stonemasons is, and has always been restricted to men, women Freemasons have two separate Grand Lodges, which are restricted to women.
For more information, please contact the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons [HFAF] and the Order of Women Freemasons [OWF].
Why is 408 a 'Moon' Lodge?
Members of Lodge 408 would have to travel great distances to visit the Lodge in the days before street lighting and the motorcar.
To make this visit less hazardous and the path ahead easier to see the Lodge would meet at the time there was a full moon, thus giving more available light in the evenings by which to travel.