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Welcome
 Freemasonry
is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. Its history and
tradition date to antiquity. Its singular purpose is to make good
men better. Its bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love
have survived even the most devise political, military and
religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither
a forum nor a place for worship. Instead, it is a friend of all
religions which are based on the belief in one God.
Many
of our nation's early patriots were Freemasons, as well as
thirteen signers of the Constitution and fourteen Presidents of
the United States, beginning with George Washington.
Today,
the more than four million Freemasons around the world come from
virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity,
however, they all meet as equals. They come from diverse political
ideologies, but they meet as friends. They come from virtually
every religious belief, but they all believe in one God.
One
of the most fascinating aspects of Freemasonry has always been:
how so many men, from so many different walks of life, can meet
together in peace, never have any political or religious debates,
always conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship, and call
each other "Brother!"
Freemasons are
respectable citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws
of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which
they live. They are men of charity and good works. They remain
unchallenged as "the world's greatest philanthropy!"
The
Freemasons of America contribute more than two million dollars
every day to charitable causes which they, alone, have
established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled
example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique
and honorable Fraternity.
Freemasonry
is proud of its philosophy and practice of "making good men
better." Only individuals believed to be of the finest
character are favorably considered for membership. Every applicant
must advocate his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being
(atheists are not accepted into the Fraternity).
Anyone
seeking membership in Freemasonry must ask a Mason to recommend
him. He must sign a Petition, stating his age, occupation and
place of residence. Members of the Lodge vote by secret ballot. To
be accepted, the ballot must be unanimous.
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