Being a Mason doesn’t make you better than everyone else. It just makes you a better you.

We believe that mankind should be exactly that.

We’re much more about lending a helping hand than a secret handshake.

We do everything we can to be present. And still be part of history.

It takes a big man to believe in something bigger than himself.

Blood is thicker than water. But nothing’s thicker than brotherhood.

Whatever life throws at you, you have millions of brothers to help you catch it.

Look inside yourself. You’ll see the world a whole new way.

A tradition with purpose

Why become a Mason?

Masonry offers the opportunity to make each man better through its teachings, his Masonic associations and a philosophy that has served the social needs of men for centuries, by promoting:

• Tradition: when you become a Mason, you become part of an ancient tradition that spans centuries. From the original stonemasons that produced some of the most majestic architectural wonders of Europe to modern day Masons who participate in numerous charitable foundations, you’ll feel connected to a vital, growing and spiritually uplifting organization of like-minded men;
  
• Self Improvement: learning portions of the Ritual and participating in the Degree stimulates the mind and, coupled with committee work and lodge management, presents the opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills, build self-discipline through commitment, poise and self-confidence, and strengthen presentation and public speaking proficiencies;
  
• Sense of Accomplishment: participating in lodge projects, be they charitable or social in nature, provides the opportunity to contribute, work with others and enjoy the success of effort well expended;
  
• Fellowship – Belonging to a Like-minded Group: the modern work environment has reduced or eliminated social association with co-workers; joining with lodge members in a fraternal atmosphere can substitute for that former workplace fellowship lost;
  
• A Break from the Workaday Routine: Masonry brings together in lodge men of diverse backgrounds, where the daily pressures of a career can be left outside the door and where fellowship is the common theme.

Values to put into practice

Freemasonry connects personal growth with responsibility to others. Its three guiding principles give that commitment a practical direction.

What does being a Mason involve?

Lodge life brings together regular meetings, Masonic education, social occasions and charitable work. Members can contribute through practical service as well as financial support.

Taking part can also mean learning the ceremonies, helping organize activities, serving as an officer or visiting other lodges. Social events often include partners and families.

Participation should fit alongside your responsibilities at home and at work. Ask your local lodge about its schedule and the commitments involved.

A journey through three degrees

Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason are the three degrees of a Masonic lodge. These ceremonies teach Masonic principles in stages and create a shared experience among members. They are steps in membership, rather than academic qualifications.

Further reading: Idaho Freemasons’ Simple Answers booklet (lodge life, family commitments, belief and costs); BeAFreemason.org (core values); and the Grand Lodge of Ohio’s degree overview.