frequently asked

Freemasons come from a wide variety of backgrounds and social status; Religion, politics, sexual orientation etc are irrelevant. Our members are men over the age of 21 and are expected to be good standing with a sense of morality that manifests itself in our concern and support for those less fortunate than ourselves.

Every member will have a different answer. For some, it will be the fellowship of good men and in making lifelong friends. For others, it will be the challenge of performing ritual well and feeling part of a team. There is the satisfaction of being part of one of the biggest charity contributors in the country. And for some, it's belonging to an organisation that offers more on a spiritual level than most other interests and pursuits.

The handshake is one of several methods that were traditionally used to recognise a fellow Freemason. They are used within the ceremonies to demonstrate how far a member has progressed. They are believed to date back to a time when written certificates did not exist, so operative masons travelling the country seeking work could demonstrate that they were qualified. Freemasons adopt this in modern times to preserve the tradition.

No, absolutely not! Freemasonry is not a religion or a substitute for religion. Freemasonry does not intrude on the religious beliefs of its members, although it does require that all members profess a belief in a Supreme Being. People of all faiths are represented in Freemasonry. Religion is not discussed at lodge meetings.

Meetings follow a set structure. The first part of a meeting usually deals with the “business” of the lodge – approval of the previous meeting’s minutes, correspondence, accounts etc. The second part is one of the three ceremonies for admitting new members, passing them to the second degree and raising them to the third degree. Once a year the Master of the Lodge and his officers are installed. All of our meetings are followed by a meal which we call a “festive board” The business in the Lodge meeting is quite formal but the atmosphere in the Festive Board is much more relaxed.

The cost of becoming a Freemason varies from lodge to lodge. The fees associated with membership include a one-time initiation fee and an annual subscription, which cover the operational expenses of the lodge. There is also a dining fee for festive boards. In addition members contribute to charity collections, but you will only be expected contribute what you can comfortably afford.

Craft Freemasonry consists of three degrees. Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. There are a large number of extra orders which can be joined in addition to Craft Masonry which expand the experience but not everyone chooses to do so.

The ritual is a shared experience and can be both challenging and rewarding for the participants. It binds the members together as a team. Furthermore, the use of drama, allegory and symbolism helps explain the principles and teachings. And it’s fun!

No it won’t. Despite what you may have heard, every Freemason takes an obligation never to do this and that he expects no material gain from becoming a member. It would be a misuse of his membership to do so and could potentially lead to him being excluded.