Our traditions can be traced directly to the association of operative masons. They were men of outstanding characters and high ideas, who built the the cathedrals, abbeys, and castles of the Middle Ages.

With the decline of the cathedral building in the 17th century, many guilds of stonemasons, called “Operative” masons, started to accept into their membership those who were not members of the masons’ craft and called them ‘Speculative’ or ‘Accepted’ masons. It was in these groups, called lodges, comprised mainly of ‘Accepted’ masons that Freemasonry, as we know it today, had its beginning.

Around 1717, four such lodges, which had been meeting regularly in London, united to form the first Grand Lodge of England under the direction of the Grand Master. Form that first Grand Lodge, Freemasonry has spread throughout the world. Today, Freemasonry exists in various forms around the world (Blue Lodges, York Rite, Scottish RItes, and the Shriners), with a membership estimated at around five million, including approximately two million in the United States and around 480,000 in England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Membership

One of Freemasonry’s customs is not to solicit members. However, anyone should feel free to approach any Mason to seek further information about the craft.

Membership id for men, 18 years of age or older, who meet the qualifications and standards of character and reputation, who are of good moral character, and who believe in the existence of a supreme being.

A man who wants to join a lodge must be recommended by two members of that lodge or of another lodge. He must understand that his character will be investigates. After approval by the lodge members of that lodge, he will be accepted as an applicant for membership in Freemasonry.

The doors of Freemasonry are open to men who seek harmony with their fellow man, feel the need for self-improvement and wish to participate in making this world a better place to live.

Any man who becomes a Mason, must be prepared to honor his country, uphold its laws and respect those in authority. He must be prepared to maintain honorable relations with others with others and be willing to share in Masonic activities.