What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a philosophy of life, serious in character, built on a system of moral living, expressing a belief in a Supreme Being and the immortality of the soul. It is not a religion or an alternative to a place of worship, but it is set in a religious character with moral content based upon only two truths: the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man. It helps us to realize that there exists a nobler path of life than we experience in the non-Masonic world.
Although generally acknowledged as a way of life, in reality, Masonry is a way of thinking that makes men aware that there are more profound treasures in life than the materialistic things we momentarily cherish. Masonry strives to be an effective force for good in this world. It offers no inducement to prospective candidates other than the opportunity to render service to their fellow man in keeping with the concept of Brotherhood.
Masonry uses symbols to intrigue us and stimulate our curiosity. It recognizes no single interpretation but encourages thought and study on the part of each member. Masonry teaches love and kindness in the home; honesty and fairness in business or occupation; courtesy in social contacts; help for the weak and unfortunate; trust and confidence in good men; resistance to evil; forgiveness toward the penitent; love toward one another and above all reverence for the Supreme Being.
Who can Join?
To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, one who believes in the existence of a Supreme Being, of good moral character, motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit, prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry, desirous of earning knowledge and willing to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the
How to Join?
Our tradition was to wait for you to seek membership entirely of your own free will and accord. Today, however, we allow our members to selectively invite men of good character, who will be a credit to our Fraternity. But this doesn’t mean that you have to wait to be invited to join the Freemasons of Pennsylvania. Your interest is enough, if you meet the qualifications.
To start the process, you must first submit a petition for membership. This petition will be read at a meeting of the Lodge you are seeking to join. You will then be visited by a small committee from the Lodge who will ascertain your qualifications and answer any questions you or your family may have regarding Freemasonry. At the next meeting, the members will vote on your petition for membership. Once approved, you will be asked to attend three successive meetings, during which you will learn the teachings of Freemasonry. In ceremonies known as Degrees you will assume your vows of membership.
The fee for joining New Temple Lodge is $255 and is payable upon submitting your petition for membership.
You should ALSO know
HAZING-There is absolutely no hazing permitted in the Masonic fraternity.
ATTENDANCE-There are no attendance requirements.
RELIGION-Freemasonry is not a religion. Your religious beliefs are your own. You must, however, believe in a Supreme Being.
A SECRET SOCIETY-Freemasonry is not a secret society. Our members do not hide their affiliation with us. Our buildings are well-marked and often available for community use. While there are a few confidential handgrips and passwords used to confirm membership, we have no secrets concerning our purpose and programs. Many of our activities are open to family and friends.
MEMORIZATION-Like all fraternities, Freemasonry has impressive ritual ceremonies that date back centuries. These are presented from memory by officers who are developing their leadership and public speaking skills. There is no requirement to memorize any ritual, but members can choose to participate as they wish.