A warm fraternal welcome to Lodge Grange No.1073

Introduction to freemasonry and how to join

Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies and originated in Scotland.

Below we explain Freemasonry as it exists under the Grand Lodge of Scotland which is the corporate body governing Freemasonry in Scotland and Scottish Masonic Lodges in many other parts of the world. The explanation may correct some misconceptions.

Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas. These remain substantially in the same form used in Scottish stonemasons lodges, and use Scottish stonemason’s customs and tools as allegorical guides.

The Essential Qualification for Membership

The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership of the order is a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good repute.

Freemasonry and Religion

Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. The one essential qualification means that Freemasonry is open to men of many religions and it expects and encourages them to continue to follow their own faith. It is not permitted for Freemasons to discuss religion at Masonic meetings.

The Three Great Principles

For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:

Brotherly Love :- Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.

Relief :- Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care - not only for their own - but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

Truth :- Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives. Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.

Membership

If you wonder why you've never been asked to become a Mason, it is because Masons do not solicit for members. It's a common misconception that you have to be asked when actually it is the complete opposite.

If you are seeking Membership YOU must ask a Mason or a Masonic Lodge for an application and fit the following four criteria:

You must be male

You must be at least 21 years of age (unless you are the son of a Freemason, then 18yrs.)

You must be of good moral character

You must have a personal belief in a Supreme Being (the definition of a Supreme Being is up to you)

Note: Not all applications are successful but you would be notified of any decision.

There are NO religious, political or racial restrictions for Masonic membership other than the aforementioned belief in a Supreme Being. Any discussion of religion or politics is strictly forbidden in a Masonic Lodge.

How do I join?

If you know a Freemason, ask him, let him know you are interested in helping your fellow men. Alternatively, send us a message with your enquiry (you can do this from the "contact us" page) and someone will be in touch.

Freemasonry has been around for several hundred years now and it evolves, like many things, to stay alive and remain relevant to today’s society. If you feel you would like to help it grow and develop in the 21st century we look forward to hearing from you.