Freemasonry is possibly the world's oldest secular fraternal society, one concerned with moral and spiritual values taught by a series of ritual dramas known as allegories. We believe that each man can make a difference in the world by improving himself and taking an active role in his community. It is a charitable, benevolent, educational and universal fraternity. Our well known symbol declares our ideals; the compass describes a circle, a symbol of virtue while the square is an emblem of morality. Membership is open to all men of integrity and goodwill, irrespective of colour, creed or perceived social background. A custom of Freemasonry is not to solicit members, but any man may request information about joining.
The essential qualification for admission and membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Whilst belief in a Supreme Being is essential, each man’s definition of what that means to him is his private affair. We nurture unity and discussions on religion, politics or other potentially divisive topics are strictly banned by our Constitution.
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a substitute for religion. The one essential qualification means that Freemasonry is open to men of many religions and systems of beliefs and it encourages them to continue to follow their own beliefs.
