Freemasonry: The Craft
For centuries, millions of men of every race, color, creed, and political persuasion throughout the world
have found in the Symbolic Lodges of Freemasonry the light to guide their search for answers to eternal
questions: What is the meaning of life? The nature of God and man?
Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory, illustrated by symbols. Not a religion but religious in
character, it is a philosophy of ethical conduct which imparts moral and social virtues and fosters brotherly
love. Its tenets have endured since man turned the first pages of civilization. They embody the
understanding by which man can transcend ordinary experience and build "a house not made with hands"
in harmony with the Great Architect of the universe.
Yet Freemasonry can never conflict with a man's relationship to God or fellow man. Sectarian religious or
partisan political discussion in a lodge is strictly prohibited. Every Mason stands equal among his brothers,
regardless of walk of life, and none is turned away for financial need.
The purpose of the Ancient Craft of Freemasonry is to unfold a message where "truth abides in fullness",
invoking greater understanding of the inward life and a spirit of fellowship in which every Mason can also
lead a better outward life.
Brotherhood At Work
Freemasonry has been characterized as a fraternity devoted to high ideals and admirable benevolence.
Community service and charitable work are, in fact, principal Masonic activities.
Easily the best-known is the world's largest single charitable institution, the Shriners Hospitals for Crippled
Children and Burns Institutes, which are located throughout Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Other Masonic bodies support their own statewide and national foundations for research, teaching, and
treatment for rehabilitation services for children with learning or speech disorders, cancer, visual problems,
and need of dental restoration.
Masons everywhere assist distressed brother Masons and their families. They also sponsor or support local
projects ranging from the recognition of the achievements of others to scholarship programs. Masons serve
as community volunteers and quietly extend help for countless thousands - from providing a child with
shoes to assisting the handicapped.
Altogether, the budgets for these community services exceed two million dollars per day, which Masons
support without regard to the Masonic affiliation of their recipients. With this spirit of working together to
serve mankind, brotherhood works well, indeed.
A Progressive Science
Once raised to the "sublime degree" of Master Mason in his "Blue" Lodge, a Freemason steps onto a broad
vista of opportunity for fellowship and advancement.
First, concordant bodies of the York Rite and the Scottish Rite offer ritual instruction for advanced degrees.
The every Shriner is a Mason first...as are members of other Masonic groups, each serving a particular
need or interest.
Advancement through these concordant bodies not only invites participation in this Masonic network, but
also promotes a more comprehensive understanding of its sacramental system of ceremonies, doctrines,
and symbols.
A statewide Grand organization governs every Masonic body, and all but the Blue Lodge have national
governing councils as well. These offer further opportunity for growth and responsibility.
No Mason is required to advance beyond his Blue Lodge or participate actively in its ritual or business
affairs, but those who do so find personal fulfillment in the rewards of public speaking, teaching, community
work, and even music and the dramatic arts.
Whether their commitments are to Masonic ritual, study or organizational and charitable work, most active
Masons simply speak of the camaraderie among trusted friends and a satisfying sense of purpose.
Ancient Traditions
Though its heritage in antiquity is unmistakable, modern speculative Freemasonry was founded more
recently upon the structure, ceremonies, and symbolism of the lodge of operative or working freemen
stonemasons, who built the magnificent Medieval Gothic structures throughout much of Europe and
England.
Dated in 1390 A.D., the Regius Poem details the charter of a lodge operating in the 900s A.D. "Masonry"
then meant architecture and encompassed most of the arts and sciences. Because lodges held knowledge
as competitive secrets, only trusted, capable companions were instructed in the craft - and then only by
degrees, orally and through symbols, because of widespread illiteracy.
In the late Renaissance, lodges of Freemasons began to accept as speculative masons those educated
men who were attracted by the elegance of masonic traditions for philosophic expression. In time they were
passed into the inner circles.
Thus, the framers of speculative Freemasonry began to describe a code of conduct through the symbolic
nature of architecture and the stonemason's craft. Signaling modern speculative Freemasonry, the first
Grand Lodge was chartered in 1717. Constituent Symbolic Lodges were soon established throughout the
world.
The first Lodge in the Colonies was chartered in Boston in 1733, and the first Lodge in New Jersey, St.
Johns #1, was chartered on July 3, 1787.
A Family Affair
The Blue Lodge is the bedrock of the Masonic Family, yet there are several appendant organizations which
a Mason's family members can join to share many more of their common interests and activities.
Family-oriented activities include a range of social and entertainment programs, family outings, and
community service projects, as well as numerous occasions for statewide or regional travel.
Among the appendant groups for adults, both men and women may be welcome as members, but women
typically hold the principal offices. These groups include, among others, the Order of the Eastern Star,
Order of Amaranth, and Order of the Golden Chain.
Groups for young people build self-esteem and prepare them for citizenship through successful experience
with responsibility and leadership. Masonic youth groups include the Order of Rainbow for Girls, and the
Order of DeMolay for young men.
With many opportunities for growth and friendship, these family-centered groups typically develop active
social calendars, so that the "Masonic family" truly is a family affair.
Ask Yourself
Among millions of Masons, not one was lawfully invited to apply for membership. Our code of conduct
prevents it. Thus, no faithful Mason can invite you. Any Mason can obtain a Petition for the Degrees of
Freemasonry for you, but you must ask for it - and for good reason. You must first ask yourself if you're
suitably prepared to enter the "gentle craft of Masonry" ... to become a brother in the world's most exclusive
fraternal order. Few men are intellectually or spiritually prepared to understand or appreciate even the
more apparent meanings of Masonry. Do you reflect on the nature of man's existence and your obligations
to God, your family, and yourself?
If such ethical and moral questions hold little interest for you, then you will gain little benefit from the
teachings of the Craft. But if you seek a more meaningful quality of life - and the spirit of charity and good
fellowship which flow from it - then Freemasonry has much to offer.
We want you to know what we believe, how we act, and what we do...and, then, should you become a
Mason, to be proud to be our Brother and to participate in our work. Only those who desire membership
because of their favorable impression of us should seek a petition.
That's why you must "ask yourself".
What We Ask Of You
Any man who is twenty-one years of age or older and of good moral character, who comes
well-recommended, and who believes in a Supreme Being may petition to become a Freemason.
Two Important Questions
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Neither is Freemasonry a religion, nor does it require a religious affiliation. However, Masons worship in
congregations of their choice. Some are ordained priests, ministers, or rabbis; many serve in lay capacities;
and, others have no affiliation. With origins in post-Reformation England, Freemasonry's allegories and
rituals are rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition. They exemplify mankind's universal experience and inculcate
an admired moral and ethical value system. With respect to religion, Freemasonry simply teaches the
"Fatherhood of God" and the "Brotherhood of Man".
Is Freemasonry a "secret" society?
No. Freemasonry is a fraternity of men who are proud to be known as Masons. Since our inception, the
world has known of speculative Freemasonry and its work. Freemasonry does, however, have some
secrets, all extending from historic tradition. Our modes of recognition, opening and closing ceremonies,
and rituals for conferring the Degrees of Masonry are our only secrets. Thousands of works discussing
Masonic history, traditions, craft, and proceedings are widely available to the public.
For more information, contact: * New Jersey Grand Lodge, telephone 1-800-792-8690.
* Central Lodge Worshipful Master William R. Sawdy, Jr.
Email:
* Central Lodge Secretary William H. Hart, Jr., P.M.
Email:
For centuries, millions of men of every race, color, creed, and political persuasion throughout the world
have found in the Symbolic Lodges of Freemasonry the light to guide their search for answers to eternal
questions: What is the meaning of life? The nature of God and man?
Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory, illustrated by symbols. Not a religion but religious in
character, it is a philosophy of ethical conduct which imparts moral and social virtues and fosters brotherly
love. Its tenets have endured since man turned the first pages of civilization. They embody the
understanding by which man can transcend ordinary experience and build "a house not made with hands"
in harmony with the Great Architect of the universe.
Yet Freemasonry can never conflict with a man's relationship to God or fellow man. Sectarian religious or
partisan political discussion in a lodge is strictly prohibited. Every Mason stands equal among his brothers,
regardless of walk of life, and none is turned away for financial need.
The purpose of the Ancient Craft of Freemasonry is to unfold a message where "truth abides in fullness",
invoking greater understanding of the inward life and a spirit of fellowship in which every Mason can also
lead a better outward life.
Brotherhood At Work
Freemasonry has been characterized as a fraternity devoted to high ideals and admirable benevolence.
Community service and charitable work are, in fact, principal Masonic activities.
Easily the best-known is the world's largest single charitable institution, the Shriners Hospitals for Crippled
Children and Burns Institutes, which are located throughout Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Other Masonic bodies support their own statewide and national foundations for research, teaching, and
treatment for rehabilitation services for children with learning or speech disorders, cancer, visual problems,
and need of dental restoration.
Masons everywhere assist distressed brother Masons and their families. They also sponsor or support local
projects ranging from the recognition of the achievements of others to scholarship programs. Masons serve
as community volunteers and quietly extend help for countless thousands - from providing a child with
shoes to assisting the handicapped.
Altogether, the budgets for these community services exceed two million dollars per day, which Masons
support without regard to the Masonic affiliation of their recipients. With this spirit of working together to
serve mankind, brotherhood works well, indeed.
A Progressive Science
Once raised to the "sublime degree" of Master Mason in his "Blue" Lodge, a Freemason steps onto a broad
vista of opportunity for fellowship and advancement.
First, concordant bodies of the York Rite and the Scottish Rite offer ritual instruction for advanced degrees.
The every Shriner is a Mason first...as are members of other Masonic groups, each serving a particular
need or interest.
Advancement through these concordant bodies not only invites participation in this Masonic network, but
also promotes a more comprehensive understanding of its sacramental system of ceremonies, doctrines,
and symbols.
A statewide Grand organization governs every Masonic body, and all but the Blue Lodge have national
governing councils as well. These offer further opportunity for growth and responsibility.
No Mason is required to advance beyond his Blue Lodge or participate actively in its ritual or business
affairs, but those who do so find personal fulfillment in the rewards of public speaking, teaching, community
work, and even music and the dramatic arts.
Whether their commitments are to Masonic ritual, study or organizational and charitable work, most active
Masons simply speak of the camaraderie among trusted friends and a satisfying sense of purpose.
Ancient Traditions
Though its heritage in antiquity is unmistakable, modern speculative Freemasonry was founded more
recently upon the structure, ceremonies, and symbolism of the lodge of operative or working freemen
stonemasons, who built the magnificent Medieval Gothic structures throughout much of Europe and
England.
Dated in 1390 A.D., the Regius Poem details the charter of a lodge operating in the 900s A.D. "Masonry"
then meant architecture and encompassed most of the arts and sciences. Because lodges held knowledge
as competitive secrets, only trusted, capable companions were instructed in the craft - and then only by
degrees, orally and through symbols, because of widespread illiteracy.
In the late Renaissance, lodges of Freemasons began to accept as speculative masons those educated
men who were attracted by the elegance of masonic traditions for philosophic expression. In time they were
passed into the inner circles.
Thus, the framers of speculative Freemasonry began to describe a code of conduct through the symbolic
nature of architecture and the stonemason's craft. Signaling modern speculative Freemasonry, the first
Grand Lodge was chartered in 1717. Constituent Symbolic Lodges were soon established throughout the
world.
The first Lodge in the Colonies was chartered in Boston in 1733, and the first Lodge in New Jersey, St.
Johns #1, was chartered on July 3, 1787.
A Family Affair
The Blue Lodge is the bedrock of the Masonic Family, yet there are several appendant organizations which
a Mason's family members can join to share many more of their common interests and activities.
Family-oriented activities include a range of social and entertainment programs, family outings, and
community service projects, as well as numerous occasions for statewide or regional travel.
Among the appendant groups for adults, both men and women may be welcome as members, but women
typically hold the principal offices. These groups include, among others, the Order of the Eastern Star,
Order of Amaranth, and Order of the Golden Chain.
Groups for young people build self-esteem and prepare them for citizenship through successful experience
with responsibility and leadership. Masonic youth groups include the Order of Rainbow for Girls, and the
Order of DeMolay for young men.
With many opportunities for growth and friendship, these family-centered groups typically develop active
social calendars, so that the "Masonic family" truly is a family affair.
Ask Yourself
Among millions of Masons, not one was lawfully invited to apply for membership. Our code of conduct
prevents it. Thus, no faithful Mason can invite you. Any Mason can obtain a Petition for the Degrees of
Freemasonry for you, but you must ask for it - and for good reason. You must first ask yourself if you're
suitably prepared to enter the "gentle craft of Masonry" ... to become a brother in the world's most exclusive
fraternal order. Few men are intellectually or spiritually prepared to understand or appreciate even the
more apparent meanings of Masonry. Do you reflect on the nature of man's existence and your obligations
to God, your family, and yourself?
If such ethical and moral questions hold little interest for you, then you will gain little benefit from the
teachings of the Craft. But if you seek a more meaningful quality of life - and the spirit of charity and good
fellowship which flow from it - then Freemasonry has much to offer.
We want you to know what we believe, how we act, and what we do...and, then, should you become a
Mason, to be proud to be our Brother and to participate in our work. Only those who desire membership
because of their favorable impression of us should seek a petition.
That's why you must "ask yourself".
What We Ask Of You
Any man who is twenty-one years of age or older and of good moral character, who comes
well-recommended, and who believes in a Supreme Being may petition to become a Freemason.
Two Important Questions
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Neither is Freemasonry a religion, nor does it require a religious affiliation. However, Masons worship in
congregations of their choice. Some are ordained priests, ministers, or rabbis; many serve in lay capacities;
and, others have no affiliation. With origins in post-Reformation England, Freemasonry's allegories and
rituals are rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition. They exemplify mankind's universal experience and inculcate
an admired moral and ethical value system. With respect to religion, Freemasonry simply teaches the
"Fatherhood of God" and the "Brotherhood of Man".
Is Freemasonry a "secret" society?
No. Freemasonry is a fraternity of men who are proud to be known as Masons. Since our inception, the
world has known of speculative Freemasonry and its work. Freemasonry does, however, have some
secrets, all extending from historic tradition. Our modes of recognition, opening and closing ceremonies,
and rituals for conferring the Degrees of Masonry are our only secrets. Thousands of works discussing
Masonic history, traditions, craft, and proceedings are widely available to the public.
For more information, contact: * New Jersey Grand Lodge, telephone 1-800-792-8690.
* Central Lodge Worshipful Master William R. Sawdy, Jr.
Email:
* Central Lodge Secretary William H. Hart, Jr., P.M.
Email:
| The Real Secret of Freemasonry Courtesy of The Grand Lodge of New Jersey |
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