What’s it all about?

  • There are 250,000 Freemasons belonging to 8,000 lodges throughout England and Wales and districts overseas. Worldwide the figure rises to 6,000,000 Freemasons, all with their own special reasons why they enjoy Freemasonry.

    For some it is about making new friends and acquaintances. For others, it is being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and society.

    Click the link to watch some United Grand Lodge of Engald videos that tells you What Freemasonry is all about

    Click the link to watch a video of the Grand Secretary Nigel Brown as he answers many of the questions asked about Freemasonry

    Every Freemason has his own reason for joining:

    “My dad was a Freemason, as was my grandfather, so you could say Masonic life is a tradition in my family.”

    “My wife and I attended a Ladies Evening and we enjoyed the evening so much I decided I wanted to become a Freemason”

    “I was very surprised by how welcoming everyone was, it seemed like I had belonged all my life.”

    “The long, rich history of the Craft interested me.”

    “Masonry is a fantastic way to do some good, to help others and make some really good friends.”

    “Freemasonry has helped build my confidence enabling me to tackle challenges I used to shy away from.”

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    Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. For many, its biggest draw is the fact that members come from all walks of life and meet as equals whatever their race, religion or socio-economic position in society.

    Its values are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasonry does not discriminate on grounds of race, colour, religion, political views or social standing.

    Freemasonry provides a unique environment for people from all backgrounds to learn skills, make lasting friendships, achieve their potential and, above all, have fun.

    What is more, the organisation provides a valuable forum for discussion between members in an open environment, helping to build trust.

    Freemasonry prides itself on its transparency. Not only are Freemasons completely free to acknowledge their membership they are encouraged to do so.

    Freemasons make a major contribution to society through their own Masonic charities, as well as through donations to UK charities and worldwide disaster relief funds.

    Members play an active role in their communities and all money donated comes from our own efforts, Freemasons do not employ any external fundraisers.

    Freemasonry is more relevant and important to society today than ever before, as it encompasses and embraces all the fundamental principles of good citizenship. Many of these are learnt through traditional rituals that take the form of one-act plays, leading to increased self-esteem and confidence.

    Every Freemason embarks on his own journey of self-discovery when he enters the organisation. With three levels of Freemasonry, the progress through to senior roles within a lodge can be seen in much the same way as a person progressing in his career – each promotion bringing greater understanding and responsibility.

    There are many diverse and personal reasons for joining the Freemasons. To answer any questions you might have about our history, or future, what Freemasons believe in, the kind of work they do or where your nearest lodge is. If you want to find out further information, please contact our membership officer who will be happy to help you.

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