Freemasonry is a world-wide fraternity of men. It is not a religious or political organisation but open to men of high moral standards whatever their ethnic origins, political beliefs or religion.

 

Freemasonry as we practice it is believed to have its origins in the stonemason’s guilds and operative masons’ lodges of England and Scotland in the middle ages. However the tools and customs of the old craft masons are used today in our masonic symbols and ceremonies as allegories which apply to our morals and behaviour. It is often said, “Freemasonry takes a good man and makes him even better”.  Through ritualist dramas and orations, the new initiate is taught - and the older mason regularly reminded - of his duties to his family, to society (including obedience to the laws of the land in which he resides), and to those less fortunate - for charity plays a major role in Freemasonry.  Slowly moral and spiritual lessons are transferred as the brother progresses through the First, Second and Third Degrees.

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While Freemasons acknowledge the links to the stonemason’s guilds, we also have a traditional history which traces our fraternity back in time to the knowledge and wisdom accumulated by the Egyptians and Greeks. Some scholars even point to origins in the Mystery Schools of ancient times.   

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