California Masonic membership is open to men age 18 or older who meet the qualifications and standards of character and intention, and who believe in a Supreme Being. Men of all ethnic and religious backgrounds are welcome.
How can I be a Freemason?
- You must believe in a Supreme Being.
- You must be joining of your own free will. ...
- You must be a man.
- You must be free-born. ...
- You must be of lawful age. ...
- You must come recommended by at least two existing Freemasons from the lodge you're petitioning.
Who can join the Freemasons?
- Be a male at least 18 years of age (the minimum age varies in some jurisdictions, sometimes up to 21)
- Believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, although Freemasonry is not concerned with theological distinctions or particular religious beliefs.
- Be of good moral character.
What is the purpose of Freemasons?
Today, “Freemasons are a social and philanthropic organization meant to make its members lead more virtuous and socially oriented lives ,” says Margaret Jacob, professor of history at University of California, Los Angeles, and author of Living the Enlightenment: Freemasonry and Politics in Eighteenth-Century Europe.
Does Freemasonry cost money?
There is an annual subscription or membership fee which all lodge members must pay , just like in most organisations. Some of that fee goes to the ongoing running of the lodge, while some will go to Grand Lodge to help finance Freemasonry as a whole.
Should I join the Masons?
Why should I become a Freemason? Becoming a Freemason can help you achieve great personal reward by guiding you to build your moral character and connection to your community. ... Through a commitment to these values, all Freemasons share the common goal of making good men better.
What are the ranks in the Masons?
- Worshipful Master.
- Senior Warden.
- Junior Warden.
- Treasurer.
- Secretary.
- Deacons.
- Stewards.
- Tyler.
What do Freemasons do at meetings?
In addition to such business, the meeting may perform a ceremony to confer a Masonic degree or receive a lecture , which is usually on some aspect of Masonic history or ritual. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Lodge may hold a formal dinner, or festive board, sometimes involving toasting and song.
What do you get from being a Freemason?
When you become a Freemason, you join a long tradition of world leaders and great men in many fields who found inspiration and support in this organisation. You are embraced into a fellowship that genuinely cares for each of its members and wants to see them excel and meet life's challenges with strength and integrity.
How do you become a Mason If you are a woman?
A woman must be related to a member of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine or a Master Mason by birth, marriage or adoption. She must be at least 18 years of age and a resident for at least six months in the area of the Court in which membership is desired.
What is the G in Masonic symbol?
With a “G”
Another is that it stands for Geometry , and is to remind Masons that Geometry and Freemasonry are synonymous terms described as being the “noblest of sciences”, and “the basis upon which the superstructure of Freemasonry and everything in existence in the entire universe is erected.
What is the initiation ceremony for a Freemason?
The Freemason initiation ritual involves the candidate entering the lodge blindfolded . His left breast is exposed to show that he is not a woman. His left pant-leg is rolled up to prove he is not disabled. He enters from the west side and moves toward the east side, where the worshipful master is sitting.
What are Masonic funeral rites?
The Masonic funeral rites are performed by a deceased Master Mason's lodge , so that he can be honored by those who have known him and his works. It is one of the few ceremonies performed in public by Freemasons. Such a Masonic funeral is carried out at the request of a Master Mason or his family.
What are Freemasons called?
Freemasonry is an organization of people who believe in brotherhood and helping others. Its members are known as “Freemasons” (in full: “ Ancient Free and Accepted Masons “, or simply “Masons”).
How long does it take to become a 33rd degree Mason?
After 46 months as a K.C.C.H. he is then eligible to be elected to the 33rd degree, upon approval of the Supreme Council and Sovereign Grand Commander.
Can a Catholic be a Mason?
Masonic bodies do not ban Catholics from joining if they wish to do so. There has never been a Masonic prohibition against Catholics joining the fraternity, and some Freemasons are Catholics, despite the Catholic Church's prohibition of joining the freemasons.
