Freemasonry
Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternity. It is
comprised of adult men (18+) of good character from every country,
religion, race, age, income, education, and opinion, who believe in a
Supreme Being. Its body of knowledge and system of ethics is based on
the belief that each man has a responsibility to improve himself while
being devoted to his family, faith, country, and fraternity.
Freemasonry (often simplified to “Masonry”) enhances and strengthens the
character of the individual man by providing opportunities for
fellowship, charity, education, and leadership based on the three
ancient Masonic tenets: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. The
Massachusetts Grand Lodge is a crowning legacy of this venerable
heritage as we strive to “make good men better.”
Fellowship
By attending Masonic Lodge meetings and learning from your fellow
Masons, you’ll strengthen the bonds of fellowship as you join together
with like-minded men who share ideals of both a moral and metaphysical
nature. You’ll enjoy the friendship of other Masons in the community,
and you’ll be welcomed as a “brother” by Masons everywhere in the world.
Freemasonry also promises that should you ever be overtaken by
misfortune, sickness, or adversity through no fault of your own, the
hands of our great fraternity will be stretched forth to aid and assist
you.
Charity
From
its earliest days, charity has been the most visible Masonic activity.
Freemasons have always been devoted to caring for disadvantaged
children, the sick and the elderly. In fact, Masons in North America
give away approximately $3 million to national and local charities each
day, of which more than 70% is directed toward the general public.
Masons are also actively involved in a great deal of community volunteer
work.
Education:
The
Grand Lodge of Massachusetts has advocated the education of its members
since its earliest years. Its ceremonies provide instruction to all
members, supplemented by various other activities such as seminars,
lectures, workshops, and reading. Because Freemasonry is an esoteric
society, certain aspects of its work are not generally disclosed to the
public. Freemasonry uses an initiatory system of degrees to explore
ethical and philosophical issues, and the system is less effective if
the observer knows beforehand what will happen. It is described in
Masonic craft ritual as "a beautiful system of morality veiled in
allegory and illustrated by symbols."
Qualities Of A Mason
- fellowship with other Masons
- high moral standards
- kindness in the home
- courtesy in society
- honesty in business
- fairness in all dealings
Being A Mason
Being a Mason is about a father helping his son make better decisions; a business leader striving to bring morality to the workplace; a thoughtful man learning to work through tough issues in his life.
Community Service
Throughout a Mason’s life, fellowship and friendship is a key component, as well as community service. The typical Mason wants to continue to grow as a man and to benefit society.
