How do I become a Freemason?
I have recently been asked this question a fair bit. I will set out what I think to be a good answer that will apply generally throughout the world (but not in all cases, as Freemasonry can be slightly different in various jurisdictions). 1) Be sure you want to be a Freemason, and that you want to be one for the right reasons. Learn what Freemasonry is REALLY about. Separate the innumerable myths and lies from what is the more likely truth. The best way to do that is to read what Freemasons write, not what others write. The good news is that there are many Masonic websites and books. Read one of my earlier posts for a good list. The basic thing that you should know is whether you want to serve society, and benefit personally from that, or whether you think Freemasonry is going to be all about you. If you think the latter, maybe this is not for you, as at it's core Freemasonry is really about service to others, Freemason and non-Freemason alike. 2) There is an age requirement. Normally, this is 21. If you are younger, there are youth organizations affiliated with Freemasonry, like DeMolay. 3) One of Freemasonry's slogans is "Making good men better". That means that we are really not looking to reform anybody (perhaps unfortunately). So, if you have a criminal record, you likely will not be an acceptable member. 4) Another slogan is: "To be one, ask one". This reflects our belief that our fraternity is a transformative engine (good men better), but this can only be done by those who desire it fully. Freemasonry is a way of life. Freemasons may not invite, ask or coerce you. 5) Belief in the Supreme Being. Freemasonry is secular with respect to any particular Religious dogma, but in general (not true for something Grand Orient), we require you profess a belief in the Supreme Being. You can be a Christian, Muslim, Hindu, or agnostic, you just can't be an atheist. 6) Now that you've read up on it, and have met the criteria above, you want to contact a Lodge. In general, you want to join a Lodge that is one of the major Grand Lodges at a Country or State level. It is fairly easy to find these via their websites. These GL's are typically for men only. There are also major women's and coed Masonic orders, but they are not as widely available. Once you have chosen an "order" and a Grand Lodge, you now want to make contact with your local Lodge. This is generally found on the GL Website, and many of them have their own websites, such as my own Lodge, St. Johns Lodge no. 63, Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario http://www.stjohns63.com. 7) once you've made contact, you will be able to complete the process. It's not automatic. You WILL be evaluated for compatibility. This amounts to your moral stature, ethical outlook, demeanor, reasons for joining etc. It's not automatic. Good Luck!
















