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Masons, or Freemasons, are members of the oldest and largest fraternity in the world, with millions of members around the world. It's up to each local lodge to decide who to let in, but in general Masons look for people with a good reputation and a commitment to self-improvement and brotherhood. Membership isn't secret, and it's usually not hard to find local contact info online through the loose worldwide network of Masonic organizations.
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Question 1 of 8:
What is Freemasonry?
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Freemasonry is a type of social and ceremonial organization. Freemasons support each other in friendship and self-improvement. Compared to a typical social club, Masonic organizations also hold more formal and ceremonial gatherings. [1] X Research source These gatherings can include spiritual activities like prayer, but Masonry is not officially part of any religion. [2] X Research source
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Freemasonry exists in many different local forms. There is no single worldwide Masonic organization. Instead, each country, state, or region has a "Grand Lodge" that decides on rules and membership, and many smaller local lodges. There are many differences between lodges, but most fall into one of two main categories:
- Lodges that call themselves "regular" tend to be more traditional. They don't accept atheists or women (though woman can sometimes join a sister organization). [5] X Research source Most Masons in the English-speaking world and the former British Empire are this type. [6] X Research source
- "Liberal" or "continental" lodges, most popular in France but found worldwide, typically accept women and atheists as members. [7] X Research source
"It gave me answers to questions I did not know I had. I am very much interested in joining, it seems like a great respectable group of men and women that I would love to stand side-by-side with. Thank you." more comments ..." more
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Question 2 of 8:
Can anyone become a Freemason?
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In many lodges, only religious adult men can become Freemasons. The most traditional Masonic lodges only accept adult men (which means 18 or older in most places). They also require members to believe in a "Supreme Being." You don't need to follow any specific religion (at least officially), but atheists and agnostics can't join. [8] X Research source
- Since 2018, the most influential Masonic Grand Lodge (the UGLE) has officially allowed trans men. [9] X Research source Other lodges might not.
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Women and atheists can still join some lodges. Liberal Masonic lodges do not have any religious requirements for joining. [10] X Research source They sometimes also relax the men-only restriction, although there is still a lot of disagreement on this between individual lodges. [11] X Research source
- Even in more traditional areas like England, there are women-only organizations like The Order of Women Freemasons. The larger male organizations might not officially recognize these as Masons, but they can still have fairly close ties. [12] X Research source
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Question 3 of 8:
How do I apply to become a Freemason?
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Contact your local lodge for an application form. Freemasonry isn't a hierarchy, and you don't need to formally join a national organization. Check your local lodge's website for a petition form to fill out asking to join, or for the lodge secretary's contact info. [13] X Research source
- Petition forms usually ask for a lot of personal info, including employment and criminal history. The lodge uses these to investigate your character, and might not accept you if your form doesn't have complete and honest information. [14] X Research source
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Ask a Grand Lodge for local contact information. If you can't find any contact info for your local lodge, contact the "Grand Lodge" for your country or state. The Grand Lodge can usually direct you to a local Masonic organization.
- You can find the contact info for most of the traditional "regular" Grand Lodges at https://www.ugle.org.uk/contact-us/interested-in-becoming-a-freemason .
- Less traditional "liberal" lodges are not as common in the US and UK, though a few do exist. If you're in continental Europe, try contacting one of the lodges listed at https://www.ame-ema.eu/en/ema/obediences .
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Question 4 of 8:
What is the initiation process after you've applied to be a Freemason?
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The lodge reviews your petition thoroughly before making a decision. Stay on your best behavior, especially when lodge members interview you or ask to spend time with you. Be ready to talk about anything in your past or present life. It's not a dealbreaker if you've made mistakes in the past, as long as you own up to them and talk about how you've changed. The lodge members usually take several months to think things over, but it depends on how busy they are and how well they already know you. [15] X Research source
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The final initiation ceremony depends completely on the lodge. If the lodge does vote to accept you, it invites you to a ritual. This can be anything from a solemn spoken ceremony to a limousine ride, elaborate meal, and incense-filled ritual. Each lodge does things differently, but the goal is to welcome you into the brotherhood. [16] X Research source
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Question 5 of 8:
How long does it take to become a Freemason?
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It usually takes a couple months to join as an apprentice. You can expect to wait at least 45 days before hearing whether you've been accepted. In practice, depending on how busy the lodge is and its exact rules, it's not unusual to wait 3 or 4 months, or even longer. [17] X Research source
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Climbing the ranks to Master Mason takes months or years. As soon as a lodge accepts you, you are an apprentice. By demonstrating your commitment at meetings and studying Masonic symbolism, you can earn the 2nd degree of Masonry, called Fellowcraft, and finally the 3rd degree. Once you have your 3rd degree, you can call yourself a Master Mason and visit other lodges, not just the one you joined. [18] X Research source
- The length of time this takes depends on your lodge and how much time you have available. A few months is typical in many US lodges, while liberal-style lodges often add and expect the process to take at least 2 years. [19] X Research source Liberal lodges may also have additional degrees to study for beyond Master. [20] X Research source
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Question 6 of 8:
Does it cost money to be a Freemason?
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Yes, most Masons pay annual dues plus an application fee. As with most of Masonry, the details depend on the lodge. In the United States, a typical lodge charges you $300 to apply, which also covers your first year of dues if you get in. After that, you'll have to pay about $50 to $200 per year, depending on the lodge.
- Some lodges charge quite a lot for the formal dinners they hold after each meeting, but attending these is optional. [21] X Research source
- There might be some one-time costs as well, but these aren't usually too steep. For instance, the Illinois lodge charges an extra $100 total for climbing the ranks of membership. [22] X Research source
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Besides direct fees, Freemasons can require members to be financially stable. Although many lodges don't mention this directly on their websites, members are traditionally required to be financially independent. There's no minimum income or anything like that, but the lodge might not accept you if it doesn't think you can financially support yourself and your family. [23] X Research source
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Question 8 of 8:
What do I have to do once I'm a Mason?
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You'll attend all kinds of events hosted at your lodge. In day-to-day life, Freemasonry is a social brotherhood. Masons spend time together socializing, sharing meals, fundraising for charity, and hosting events that have little or nothing to do with ceremony or secrets. If you want to become a Mason, find a lodge with members that you enjoy spending time with. [26] X Research source
- You aren't expected to attend every single event, of course, but it can be a pretty serious time commitment. Masonic organizations sometimes say that their members should put family first, job second, and Freemasonry third. [27] X Research source
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You'll attend special ceremonies a few times a year. These are the only secret part of Freemasonry, so the exact details aren't open to the public. Masons describe the ceremony as something like a play loosely based on Biblical allegories. If you join, you might be expected to wear a special apron, recite lines, and participate in symbolic rituals. [28] X Research source
- Different lodges follow different traditions, with the Scottish Rites being one of the most popular. [29] X Research source Since each lodge also has a lot of control over what it does, you can't really know exactly what to expect before joining.
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Comments
- "I'm so glad I searched for this article, it's so helpful. I heard about the Masons on Facebook, and the weird manner in which people were talking about them raised my curiosity. The article changed my opinion and makes me want to willingly join this organization. They're part of a society, doing God's work to make this world a better place for humans. Thanks for the guidelines." ..." more
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"Thanks for providing me all the necessary information about the Freemasons. I've dreamed all my life of becoming a member of the Freemasons, but I have never come across any other members. I am so happy to be here writing to you, I'm so interested in joining the Masons." ..." more
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"Full understanding. Very informative and well presented. It is a comfort to know there are others in a group that feel and believe as I do. I am a Vietnam Veteran and I love my country. I am proud to be an American. I am thankful to be a Christian." ..." more
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"Recently, I was doing research about my family lineage, I learned that my great-great-grandfather, was a mason. I've always been curious. This site helped me decide to do more research and decide to learn more about masons." ..." more
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"I found an old ring and remember my grandma telling me about it when I was younger. Since finding it, I've been obsessed about it. This really helped me with all the actualisations. Definitely can't wait to join." ..." more
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"A lot of my family members are Prince Hall constituents, and they tell me all the time to join because of what I do to help the community. I heard a lot of negativity, but after reading this, I know I'm ready." ..." more
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"I grew up looking at Freemasons. I have always believed in a single supreme Being. I hope to start application this year. I pray that I get accepted. This is on the top of my "lifetime achievement list."" ..." more
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"Helped because lately, I have become very interested in the charity and activities done by the Masons. I like to help the community and I truly believe that the help of one man can make the difference. " ..." more
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"To be a man, respected by your community, is of the essence. Basic morals are down the drain, so to speak. We need God-fearing people to be examples and guide those who have the urge to be guided." ..." more
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"I learned how to became strong with heavy decision for yourself and others. I would like to be one of the Masons in the world and to be respected by all people. Thank you." ..." more
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"I know what I need to do in order to apply and work on, should I be considered for membership. I would proudly and happily serve my community and fellowship as a member." ..." more
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"I have been extremely interested for some time of possibly becoming a mason. This article was extremely informative. In short, I found this a wonderful resource." ..." more
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"I have been interested in what Freemasons are and how to join for a long time. This article cleared some things up and has sparked the need for more research." ..." more
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"Steps taken to petition and become a Freemason were very helpful. I wish I had asked my father and grandfather these questions while they were still alive." ..." more
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"It really helped me to understand why I should be part of this group, in order to get inspired about the gift of life and continued prosperity." ..." more
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"I have learned that to join is not that easy, as some scammers told me, and yet they asked for fee of $45. I will do the application myself." ..." more
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"It helped me understand a little more on how I am able to join. I can't explain it. I feel drawn every time I see the symbols or temples . " ..." more
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"All minimum requirements and necessities are clearly stated, easy to understand and very helpful to a curious mind. It brings clarity." ..." more
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"Thanks to the person who published this article. It has really helped me to know much about the Masons and how to move with them." ..." more
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat do you do once you are a Freemason?Community AnswerAs a freemason, you can take interest in helping and working with your brother freemasons. Freemasons often contribute to the community by doing volunteer work, such as at a children's home.
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QuestionWill it be easier to become a Mason if a family member was a Mason as well?Community AnswerThe process is the same no matter who was a Mason. There will still be an investigation of you.
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QuestionHow can I get more information about becoming a Mason?Community AnswerGo to the nearest Masonic Hall and leave your contact information in the mailbox. Failing that, try searching the web for a site for the Grand Lodge in your country, state or province.
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Tips from our Readers
The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
- "Be patient throughout the application process — it often takes several months before the lodge decides on your membership. Use this time to attend public events and get to know the members."
- "Do your research to find the right lodge — some are more traditional while others are more liberal on religious requirements and gender inclusion. Make sure their values align with yours."
- "Beyond ceremonies, expect to put in time at fellowship events — Masonry has a social focus, so prepare for a serious commitment attending dinners, fundraisers, etc with the group."
- "Manage expectations around costs — there is typically a $300+ application fee, then annual dues around $50-200. Optional formal dinners and other events may cost extra as well."
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Warnings
- Many Freemason organizations today present themselves as diverse and inclusive. That said, they do have a reputation for being "old boy's clubs" that do not tolerate certain religions or points of view. [31] X Research source Masonry is not one single organization, so keep in mind that not all lodges share the same policies and attitudes.Thanks
- You can be kicked out of the Freemasons for many reasons, including telling its secrets to non-Masons, becoming an atheist, cheating at a Masonic vote, or failing to show up when the lodge summons you for an important meeting. [32] X Research source These are examples from one lodge, and aren't exactly the same for all lodges.Thanks
- Although Masons allow Catholics to join the organization, the Catholic Church officially forbids this. [33] X Research sourceThanks
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References
- ↑ https://youtu.be/WAcj4WVLxt0?t=5
- ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/apr/30/freemasons-allow-women-join
- ↑ https://youtu.be/stLrTAyOFh4?t=200
- ↑ https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-43005770
- ↑ https://www.masonic-lodge-of-education.com/become-a-free-mason.html
- ↑ https://freemasonry.network/regulars/
- ↑ https://freemasonry.network/liberals/
- ↑ https://beafreemason.org/faq
- ↑ https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-45030075
- ↑ https://freemasonry.network/liberals/
- ↑ https://www.connexionfrance.com/news/freemasons-admit-first-woman/631695
- ↑ https://www.owf.org.uk/
- ↑ https://youtu.be/3y7Lpj12ZWk?t=1449
- ↑ https://youtu.be/3y7Lpj12ZWk?t=1712
- ↑ https://youtu.be/3y7Lpj12ZWk?t=1149
- ↑ https://youtu.be/sNjDvYzSpCM?t=1284
- ↑ https://freemasonryreport.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-freemason/
- ↑ https://beafreemason.org/degrees
- ↑ https://freemasonry.network/liberals/
- ↑ https://ledroithumain.international/contact-us-2/?lang=en
- ↑ https://www.ugle.org.uk/about-freemasonry/frequently-asked-questions
- ↑ https://youtu.be/3y7Lpj12ZWk?t=1149
- ↑ https://freemasonry.network/masonic-structures/masonic-recruitment/one-becomes-freemason/
- ↑ https://beafreemason.org/masonic-life
- ↑ https://chevalierramsay.be/what-is-freemasonry/
- ↑ https://beafreemason.org/faq
- ↑ https://www.durhamfreemasons.org/members/what-freemasonry-expects-of-you/
- ↑ https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-43005770
- ↑ https://ledroithumain.international/contact-us-2/?lang=en
- ↑ https://freemasonry.bcy.ca/texts/member.html
- ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/feb/05/freemasons-masons
- ↑ https://www.grandlodge-nc.org/center-for-members/masonicCode/chapter-86
- ↑ https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/what-is-the-catholic-churchs-official-position-on-freemasonry-972
About This Article
Article Summary
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If you’re over 18 and male and want to become a Mason, go online to find your local Masonic, District, or Provincial Lodge to ask about membership. Learn about the history and philosophy of the Masons, and understand their goals related to friendship, fellowship, and service. Try to be a good citizen and conduct yourself with love and charity, since these qualities are important to the Masons. Finally, talk with people in your life who can speak to your good character, since the Masons require personal references. For more information about becoming a Mason, including getting the three symbolic degrees, scroll down!
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