Should I Ask?

Many Years ago, the famous Dr. Albert Schweitzer wrote these magnificient words,

It is not enough merely to exist.... Every man has to seek in his own way to make his own self more noble and to realize his own true worth.

These words capture the meaning of Freemasonry. As the world's oldest and largest fraternity, our goal is to build a man's most valuable possession - his character.

We believe that the strength of the family, the church, the community and our country rests with men of strong conviction, firm ethical and moral values and a devotion to our democratic system of government. As Masons, we help each other intensify our devotion to these enduring values.

In a day when it seems that few people really care about rising to the highest and best in life, it is good to know that there is a group where a man can work to really improve himself.

In lodge meetings, there is no talk of politics, no discussion of religious issues, even though every Mason must affirm a belief - according to his own understanding - in deity and devotion to his country.

Masons are concerned with developing their minds and enlarging their scope of knowledge. In a word, Masons are dedicated to becoming better men.

Because a man's personal desire to build his own character is at the heart of being a Mason, you must ask to join. You must make the request.

Men of every walk of life belong to Masonic Lodges. They are proud of their centuries of tradition, their belief in brotherhood, country and the many Masonic acts of charity and compassion.

The origins of Masonry reach back to Medieval times when the great cathedrals of Europe were built. The stonemasons who created these awe inspiring Gothic structures formed craft guilds to protect the secrets of their trade and to pass on their knowledge to worthy apprentices.

In 17th century England, these guilds began accepting honorary members, men of learning and position. These new members were not working stonemasons or even associated withthe building trades. As "accepted Masons," they eventually grew into a separate organization called Freemasonry, a moral and ethical society that taught the 18th century ideals of equality and the importance of education in freeing mankind from prejudice, superstition and social injustice.

Masons continue to use the simplest tools of the ancient stonemasons - the square and compasses, the trowel, plumb and level - as symbols to teach their ideals. A Mason is oath-bound to build his life and character with the same care and precision that stonemasons used to construct the cathedrals and temples centuries ago.

Today, there are almost five million Masons in the world, with the United States claiming about three and one-half million of the total membership.

Continued...

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Last Update March 17, 2000