|
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the world, and certainly the most visible "secret society"
that ever existed. There is, however, no quick, one line description that adequately describes just what it is. There are,
however, some points that make Freemasonry different from other groups:
Freemasonry is a fraternity, bound together by oaths founded in the medieval stonemasons' guilds
Freemasonry teaches social and moral virtues using the tools and language of the ancient building trade, using the building
of a structure as an analogy for building a man's character.
Freemasons are obliged to practice brotherly love, charity mutual assistance, secrecy and mutual trust.
Masons have secret methods for recognizing each other.
Masons meet in lodges governed by a Master assisted by two Wardens where petitioners found to be duly qualified are admitted
using secret rituals based on the rules of the ancient craft guilds.
Freemasonry is not a religion. It has no plan for salvation and no dogma that its members are required to accept. Masons
must believe in a Supreme Being. Who or what you conceive that Supreme Being to be is your own affair.
Masonry teaches its members to be tolerant of others' beliefs, and to regard every person as meriting respect and civility.
|
