What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is the Uk's largest secular (non religious), fraternal and charitable organisation. At its meetings it teaches members self knowledge and moral and spiritual values through participation in a series of ritual dramas.
Freemasonry offers its members an approach to life which seeks to reinforce thoughtfulness for others, kindness in the community, honesty in business, courtesy in society and fairness in all things. Members are urged to regard the interests of the family as paramount but importantly Freemasonry also teaches and practises concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need.
The three great principles of Freemasonry
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles, namely:
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 for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
Truth.
Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.
Charity
This is the essence of Freemasonry. It is however entirely up to the individual member what he gives to Charity, but it should always be without detriment to his other responsibilities. Similarly, he may join as many lodges as his time and pocket can allow, as long as it does not adversely affect his family life and responsibilities.
Masonic charities are amongst the biggest in the land - they spread from local groups (e.g. small hospices and charities), through to medical research and overseas aid disasters etc.