What is Freemasonry
What is Freemasonry?
It is an important question for you to ponder. There have been a great number of definitions put forth throughout the years and there are nearly as many definitions of Freemasonry as there are Masons. One common definition is: “Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols.”
​
A system of morality: Freemasonry promotes a moral code based on personal integrity, responsibility, and virtue. It encourages members to:
-
Live with honesty, compassion, and justice
-
Improve themselves intellectually and spiritually
-
Treat others with respect and charity
Veiled in allegory: Freemasonry uses stories and parables (mostly drawn from architecture and biblical references) to communicate deeper moral and ethical truths. These allegories:
-
Provide lessons about life, death, duty, and enlightenment
-
Are central to the rituals and degree ceremonies performed in lodges
Illustrated by symbols: Symbols like the Square and Compasses, the All-Seeing Eye, and the Ashlars (rough and perfect stones) are used to:
-
Represent moral and philosophical ideas
-
Help Masons reflect on their own conduct and growth
-
Connect members across cultures and languages through shared meanings
​
What Do Masons Do?
Masons engage in a mix of personal development, community service, fellowship, and moral teaching, rooted in centuries of tradition. Our activities can be grouped into four main areas:
1. Self-Improvement and Moral Development
-
Attend lodge meetings that include rituals, discussions, and lessons aimed at improving character and behavior.
-
Learn through allegories and symbols, drawn from ancient stonemasonry and philosophy, to reflect on life’s deeper meanings.
-
Progress through degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason), each teaching ethical and philosophical lessons.
​
2. Brotherhood and Fellowship
-
Build strong bonds of friendship and support with other members.
-
Participate in social events, family gatherings, and public celebrations hosted by the lodge.
-
Offer mutual aid—whether personal, emotional, or financial—especially in times of illness, loss, or hardship.
​
3. Charity and Community Service
-
Donate time, money, and resources to local and global causes, such as:
-
Scholarships
-
Food drives
-
Disaster relief
-
Veterans' programs
-
Medical research and care
-
-
Organize or volunteer in community projects, youth mentoring, and elder care.
​
4. Rituals and Ceremonies
-
Participate in symbolic rituals that teach life lessons and mark transitions between degrees.
-
Hold public ceremonies (such as cornerstone laying's) and private lodge rituals that strengthen Masonic values and traditions.
-
Observe rites of passage, funerals, and special observances in a respectful, reflective manner.
​
Bonus: What Masons don’t do
-
We don’t practice a religion, though we require belief in a higher power.
-
We don’t discuss politics or sectarian issues in the lodge.
-
We are not a secret society, although some aspects (like handshakes and signs) are private to preserve tradition and unity.