About Freemasons

We know that in the early 1600s these stone masons formed lodges and also began to admit men who had no connection with the trade - accepted or 'gentlemen' masons. Why this was done and what form of ceremony was used is not known. As the 1600s drew to a close more and more gentlemen began to join the lodges, gradually taking them over and turning them into lodges of free and accepted or speculative masons, no longer having any connection with the stonemasons' craft.

Over the centuries, Freemasonry has developed into a worldwide fraternity emphasizing personal study, self-improvement, and social betterment via individual involvement and philanthropy. During the late 1700s it was one of the organizations most responsible for spreading the ideals of the Enlightenment: the dignity of man and the liberty of the individual, the right of all persons to worship as they choose, the formation of democratic governments, and the importance of public education.

During the 1800s and early 1900s, Freemasonry grew dramatically. At that time, the government had provided no social "safety net". The Masonic tradition of founding orphanages, homes for widows, and homes for the aged provided the only security many people knew.

The four million Masons worldwide continue to help men and women face the problems of the 21st century by building bridges of brotherhood and instilling in the hearts of men ideals for a better tomorrow.

The Organization:

Freemasonry is organized into a series of Grand Lodges. Each of these Grand Lodges governs a particular jurisdiction (in the US, it is by State), with the jurisdiction comprised of a number of constituent lodges. Freemasonry also includes a number of other bodies (at last count - around 192), in essence - organizations that maintain their own independence (known as appendant bodies). Examples of appendant bodies include "the Shriners", Royal Arch, Knights Templar, York Rite, Scottish Rite, and others. There are also a number of youth organizations. Every day, Freemasons and their appendant bodies contribute over $3 million to charity.

When Freemasons are asked to define their organization, they are likely to define it as a fraternity with a shared morality. Freemasons often equate the structure and moral center of their organization to the tools and implements of the stonemason - as these are used as symbols in their moral teaching.

Even though freemasonry is often referred to as a secret society, in reality, this is not the case. Indeed, it is not a secret society at all, simply a fraternity - with some secrets.

While certain aspects of the organization remain a closely guarded secret, the freemasons of the modern age have become less secret than their reputation would suggest. In fact, many of the private rituals and aspects of the freemasons that remain secret are used primarily to allow members of different lodges to recognize one another so that impersonators or impostors cannot infiltrate their lodges and so that the lessons that are taught remain a special experience for new members.

The learning found in Freemasonry is meant to be a special experience to assist in your spiritual journey through life. Freemasonry helps the individual in his "quest for something more" in life and teaches "the lessons of life" through its symbols. Freemasonry also provides fellowship, growth opportunities, lessons in life, and a chance to do something more for your greater community. The Lodge is the foundation for the other appendant organizations that spring from the root of Freemasonry into over 190 other branches. Freemasonry is a continuation of the age old teachings of the ancient mysteries through its initiates.

Masonry is a serious men’s organization, dedicated to self-improvement coupled with community involvement. Masonry is provider of camaraderie, trust in each other, instant fellowship, and brotherhood. Masonry brings together a group of people who emphasize individual excellence. Masonry is a provider of an atmosphere of inclusiveness. Masonry is an organization that helps make good men better. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us to learn more about our fraternity and Freemasonry. Feel free to walk in and talk to us, call us, or email us.