Freemasonry
What is Freemasonry, and reasons to joinWhat is Freemasonry
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest secular fraternal societies. It is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms, and use stonemasons’ customs and tools as allegorical guides.
The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership 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. No person shall be made a mason while under the age of twenty-one years unless by dispensation by the appropriate Masonic authority.
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.
TRUTH
All 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.
Freemasonry and Religion
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It does not allow religion to be discussed at its meetings.
Freemasonry and Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national and local charities as well as to appeals for international relief.
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members’ duties as citizens or of those owed to their families, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else’s business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.
Reasons to join Freemasonry
People have their own reasons why they enjoy Freemasonry. Many come for the brotherhood other for self-improvement. The following is a sample of some of the reasons given:
ACHIEVEMENT – progressing through the various offices in the Lodge to become Worshipful Master.
BROTHERHOOD – making new friends and acquaintances from all walks of life, every background and age group.
CHARITY – being able to contribute to deserving causes, both Masonic and non-Masonic.
EDUCATION – learning from peers and mentors by practicing ritual and making short speeches.
KNOWLEDGE – finding out about the history and mysteries of Freemasonry.
SELF IMPROVEMENT – making a contribution to your family and society.
If these characteristics describe how you lead your life or the life you wish to attain, then Freemasonry is for you.
Our fraternity has a wonderful and interesting history, which dates back more than three centuries. We strive to live to the highest moral and social standards, treating others as we would wish to be treated.
If you would like to know more about joining The Chilterns Lodge, then please use the contact form and we will get straight back to you.
Provincial Grand Lodge of Buckinghamshire
The Chilterns Lodge No 4634 comes under the province of Buckinghamshire. We are very proud to have the great support of the province in our undertakings. Much work is carried out at the provincial level please check out the following link for more information.
Concord Masonic Magazine
Click the link below to read the latest edition of Concord Masonic Magazine online (PDF format). you can also browse the full library of past issues here: https://buckspgl.org/bucks-information/bookcase
United Grand Lodge Website
There are various links that we have attached which go straight to videos or pamphlets produced by UGLE that are really useful in breaking it all down for you to explore and learn more about Freemasonry.
UGLE Videos
In this video you can find out why Freemasonry continues to appeal to the younger generation.
UGLE Online brochure
Interactive brochure you can view which contains a fascinating insight into Freemasonry.
Freemasonry Videos
Symbolism in Freemasonry
What do all those symbols mean ?
The Principles of Freemasonry
How is this all relevant to me ?
The Life of a Freemason
Have a peek into the world of Freemasonry
The Origins of Freemasonry
How did it all come about? Learn the past to shape the future…..
The Origins of Freemasonry
How did it all come about? Learn the past to shape the future…..
Taking the next step
After watching and reading the information on this site, and visiting the links to information on United Grand Lodge website, and if you are still interested in becoming a Freemason, we advise that you first talk to a family member, friend or colleague whom you already know to be a member. They will be able to explain to you what they can about the fraternity.