What is Freemasonry
Ask any of the 15,000 Freemasons in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory this question, and you’ll probably get 15,000 different answers!
Freemasonry means different things to each member.
- Some would say it’s a personal development program which promotes family and community values.
- Others would describe Freemasonry as a chance for both social interaction and “philosophical brainstorming”.
- Freemasonry also provides an opportunity for public service, and hands-on involvement in charitable or community issues.
- The short answer to the question, “What is Freemasonry” is that it’s one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organisations.
Made up of 5 million Freemasons around the world, it has adopted the fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill, and charity as foundations for an individual’s life and character.
- So, a Freemason strives to be moral and ethical.
- He strives to show justice, act honourably, and be loyal.
- A Freemason teaches and practices concern for people.
- He cares for the less fortunate, and helps those in need.
- And all this is done irrespective of cultural or ethnic background.
- Irrespective of religious beliefs.
- And irrespective of any differences in social standing or education.
For more information on Freemasonry have a look at the Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT website here.
How do I begin the process to become a Free Mason?
- If you find a Mason, you may ask him. The best way to find a Mason is to start asking around you. Ask family members friends etc, chances are there is someone close to you who is a Mason and you will not know.. He probably won’t have a form for Masonic admission with him, but if you give him your name and phone number, he will contact a member of his lodge, who will contact you.
- However, the easiest way to begin the process to become a Free Mason is to contact your Local Masonic Center. You may call them or fill out their website form and request that they have someone contact you.
Then what happens?
- Arrangements will be made to meet you, personally, to discuss Freemasonry.
- A committee of members from the Lodge, which are called the Investigative Committee, will contact you to arrange a meeting.
They will answer any questions you may have. If the meeting is mutually satisfactory; you will be asked if you wish to fill out a petition form. - The Investigative Committee performs inquiries of others as to your character. In New South Wales, this will take two months. In some other countries around the world, this thorough investigative process may take up to 2 years.
- Your request for membership will be balloted upon by the lodge’s members.
- You will be advised of the date of your Initiation or First degree.