What is freemasonry?

Ask any one in our fraternity and he will have his own personal definition of what freemasonry is. Part of the quest of a freemason is to answer this question. For people that are new to freemasonry it may be useful to give an answer in order to get started.

Freemasonry is a fraternity. In order to maintain the harmony of the fraternity we need to emphasize our moral relationship with each other. Because freemasonry is a worldwide organization, different opinions exist between each brother therefore matters of a religious or a political nature are not discussed in the lodge. We tend to focus on what makes us similar rather than our differences.

Freemasonry is an act of helping your community. Whether it is getting involved in large charities, giving blood or something small like lending assistance to a fellow brother.

Freemasonry is a method of teaching profound truths in a series of degrees. In order for the truth to be understood one must be initiated by degrees. Just as the prerequisites for courses toward a college degree are required, the degrees of freemasonry must be taken in context. Secrecy is used so that the truth is protected from getting out of context. The lessons learnt build on each other and are enriched by repeated analysis.  

It is hoped that through our association we make good men better.  The lessons that we teach are of a moral nature and men that have been though our program have gone on to make a positive contribution in their communities. If you are new to freemasonry then these three items encapsulate what freemasonry is: brotherly love, relief and truth.