How Do I Join The Masons
We are part of a centuries-old tradition devoted to moral character, fellowship, personal growth, and community service through the principles of Freemasonry.
How Do I Join the Masons
To Be One.. Ask One.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR MEMBERSHIP?
Twenty-two words establish the most important prerequisite to becoming a Mason. " . . . We receive none, knowingly, into our ranks who are not moral and upright before God and of good repute before the world . . ."
WILL I BE ASKED TO JOIN?
Freemasonry is built upon a simple but important principle: a man must come to the Craft of his own free will and accord.
For generations, many people have heard the phrase, “To be a Mason, you must ask one.” This has sometimes created the mistaken impression that Masons should never speak about Freemasonry or encourage a good man to learn more. In reality, Freemasonry discourages improper solicitation, not honest conversation.
Improper solicitation includes coercion, pressure, intimidation, manipulation, or persistent harassment. A man should never be pushed into seeking membership. His interest in Masonry must come from within himself.
At the same time, it is entirely appropriate for Masons to share their experiences, speak positively about the fraternity, and encourage good men to inquire if they feel Masonry may be meaningful in their lives. In fact, many of us first became interested in Freemasonry because of the example set by a respected friend, family member, co-worker, or neighbour whose character reflected the principles of the Craft.
Freemasonry is not a secret society hiding from the world. We are a fraternity of men striving to improve ourselves and serve our communities through brotherly love, relief, and truth. We welcome sincere questions from men who are curious about our values, our traditions, and our purpose.
If you are interested in Freemasonry, do not wait for a formal invitation. Speak with a Mason you know. Attend a community event or open house. Reach out to our Lodge and start a conversation. The first step toward becoming a Mason has always been a man’s own desire to learn.
Likewise, we encourage our members to look within their own circles of friends, family, coworkers, and acquaintances for men of integrity, compassion, and good character who may benefit from the teachings and fellowship of Freemasonry. A respectful conversation, a shared experience, or a simple suggestion to “come and learn more” is not improper solicitation, it is extending an open hand of friendship.
Freemasonry continues to grow one good man at a time, through genuine interest, meaningful conversation, and the example set by its members every day.
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE INITIATION?
An applicant, whose petition has been accepted by the lodge, is advised of the date his Entered Apprentice Degree has been scheduled. On that date, following a brief Ritualistic opening, the petitioner is properly prepared and introduced to the lodge. The solemn process is an enlightening experience and the candidate need never worry that embarrassing or compromising situations will arise during this (or any other degree) - THEY WILL NOT!
After receiving the Entered Apprentice Degree, you will be expected to memorize several key passages of the Ritual and help will be extended in the teaching/learning process.
Having learned the required Ritualistic work and satisfying the lodge of that proficiency, you will be asked to return for the conferral of your Fellow Craft Degree. Following a proficiency examination on that Degree, you will advance to the "last and highest grade of Ancient Craft Masonry - the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason."
Only after having completed these three symbolic degrees will you truly understand the often-quoted statement, "Freemasonry Builds Its Temples in the Hearts of Men."
