home
about us
history
where we meet
officers
past masters
diary
members area
links
what is freemasonry?
how to join
contact us

what is freemasonry?

Tracing Board Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. The essential qualifications for admission are a belief in a Supreme Being and to be of good repute. Freemasonry is open to men of many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. Freemasonry is a system of morality, not a system of faith or salvation and is complimentary to the belief of the individual. Indeed, lodge meetings, in order to ensure harmony, expressly forbid the discussion of either religion or politics.

Freemasonry asks that each of its members shows tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow man. Its members, in varying degrees, are involved with numerous local, national and international charitable works, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Freemasonry does not override the individuals duty to one’s self, one’s family ones God or work.

Masonic meetings have a set structure and consistent content and although their organisation and ceremonies have been shrouded in secrecy in the past, are now largely open to public scrutiny one way or another. Whilst Masonic lodges are private, Freemasons are happy to talk about virtually any aspect of Freemasonry, except their modes of recognition.

A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to God (by whatever name he is known) and then, without detriment to his work or family, to his neighbour (in the broadest sense) through charity and service. None of these ideas are exclusively Masonic, but the setting in which they are practiced, the spirit of friendship which is prevalent among its members and the opportunity for a convivial dinner after such meetings surely is.

A more casual answer to this question would add that Freemasonry is a body of like-minded, responsible men, who in their own way, wish to progress as individuals and share a journey of personal development towards self enlightenment ie make good men better. Freemasons will also enjoy the customs and theatrics within the lodge room which, in an appropriate context, are used to explain symbolic meaning. There is also good humour, spirit of friendship and a dinner afterwards (which is known as the Festive Board) and the potential to visit other lodges in the UK as well as abroad which all adds to the enjoyment. In between lodge meetings, many freemasons will try - and are encouraged to - find opportunities to put something back into the community at large. They will also appreciate that humility and the conduct by which they run their lives outside the lodge room is important.

So in summary, what can it offer?

  1. Several (8 in our case) meetings and dinners a year amongst friends.
  2. An opportunity to give money and / or time to well managed charities.
  3. Enjoyment: we do enjoy ourselves!
  4. Intellectual challenge: learning and understanding the ritual and its meaning.
  5. Trust: you have to demonstrate this just to join.
  6. Historical Interest: Masonic history is a fascinating subject with a huge literature.
  7. Time to reflect and evaluate one’s moral outlook and character.
  8. A friendly, positive forum where you can develop confidence in public speaking.

The Province of West Lancashire has produced a leaflet entitled "Freemasonry: A Guide for Partners, Families and Friends". You can download it by clicking here.

So if this Freemasonry is of interest to you, please get in touch by emailing our Secretary or click the link on the right "how to join".