Freemasonry is the largest and oldest brotherhood in the world, it goes beyond all religious borders to unite men of all nations, sects and opinions in peace and harmony. Its members include important religious offices, kings and presidents. To become part of this brotherhood, you must demonstrate adherence to values shared by millions of Freemasons for hundreds of years.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Basic Requirements
Step 1. Be a man and have turned 21
This is the requirement for most of the jurisdictions of the Grand Lodges (the centers that hold the authority for Masonic groups). Some jurisdictions accept men over the age of 18, and there are sometimes exceptions for members' children, or college students.
Step 2. Faith in a supreme being
Some jurisdictions do not require you to believe in a deity, but it is still a requirement for most Freemasons. You have to believe in one god or deity, superior to any other. In accordance with this principle, believers of all religious faiths are welcome.
Step 3. Be inspired by high moral principles
This can be considered the most important requirement to be able to aspire to be a Freemason. The brotherhood's motto is "better men make a better world", and honor, integrity and a sense of responsibility are held in the highest consideration. You will be required to prove that you are a man of good character in the following ways:
- You need to have a good reputation so that people who know you can confirm it.
- You must be a good member of your family, with adequate means to support it.
Step 4. Be properly educated on Freemasonry
Many people try to get in because they hear about it in movies, books or newspapers. Freemasonry is often portrayed as a secret society that wants to dominate the world, and the evidence is hidden somewhere in Paris or Washington. The truth is that Freemasonry is made up of ordinary people who strive to support each other as brothers, friends and honest citizens. Joining the company will give you access to the following:
- Participation in monthly meetings at the Masonic Lodges, where you can join the Freemason brothers.
- The initiation into the teaching of the History of Freemasonry.
- Participation in the ancient rites of Freemasonry, such as the "handshake", initiation rituals, and the free use of Masonic symbols such as the compass and the square.
Part 2 of 3: Requesting Entry
Step 1. If you want to become a Freemason, ask a Freemason
The traditional way to become a Freemason is to ask who is already a member. If you know someone who is already a member, let them know that you are interested in joining, and tell them that you would like to apply for membership. If you don't know anyone, you can still try other ways:
- Look for the abbreviation "2B1Ask1" (To be one, ask one). You can see this on stickers, T-shirts, caps and other items worn by Freemasons who wish to welcome new members.
- Look for the Masonic symbols of the compass and the square. These are more difficult to find, but you can still find those who have them on t-shirts or other items of clothing.
- Search the Masonic Lodge of your city on the telephone directory. Call them and ask them what to do to become a member of that jurisdiction.
Step 2. Have an interview with Freemasons
After applying for a particular Lodge, the Freemasons will check it out and decide whether to invite you for an interview with an investigative committee. During the interview, you can expect the following:
- They will ask you to explain why you wish to enter Freemasonry. You will be asked to tell about your life and describe your character.
- You will also have the opportunity to ask questions about their organization.
Step 3. Wait for their decision
After the interview, an investigation of your life will be conducted, which will include calls to people close to you who can verify and confirm the quality of your moral principles. They may also perform a background check to determine if you have a criminal record of any kind and entity.
Step 4. Accept an invitation
When the investigative committee has made its decision, you will receive a call and an official invitation to join the fraternity. You will also receive further instructions on meetings.
Part 3 of 3: Joining the Brotherhood
Step 1. Start as an Apprentice Bricklayer
It is the first degree of initiation, and you will learn the basic principles of Freemasonry. When you have sufficient knowledge, and after some time has passed, you can begin the path to more prestigious degrees.
- During your apprenticeship, you need to demonstrate good character.
- Before you can advance in rank, you must demonstrate thorough knowledge of a denomination (a book about a particular Christian doctrine)
Step 2. Reach the rank of Fellow Art
You will deepen the teachings of Freemasonry, especially as regards the arts and sciences. To achieve this degree, your knowledge of everything you have learned so far will be tested.
Step 3. Reach the rank of Master Mason
It is the highest level, and it usually takes several months to reach it. You must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the values of Freemasonry. Achievement of the rank will be celebrated with a ceremony.
Advice
- Depending on where you live, there may be one or more Masonic groups. There are two types of philosophies. The first is that of the "regular" Grand Lodges and the other is that of the "irregular" (often called the Grand Orient). Do your research on local groups and decide which one is best for you.
- You don't have to be rich to be admitted. The cost of the initiation varies, but the annual association ranges from around 30 to 270 euros.
- Freemasonry is a male brotherhood, but there are Orders that admit women: Order of the Eastern Star, Jobs Daughters and the irregular Co-Freemasonry.
