Be open to charity

Would your nearest and dearest describe you as a bit chatty? Well, you had better practice holding your tongue as Freemasons must remain silent when “Degrees” are worked. An officer may address you, or the Worshipful Master can grant you permission to speak if you rise. It’s very much like a chaired business meeting where…

The criteria for becoming a Freemason is pretty simple to understand, but there are some other things to consider: For a start, you need to demonstrate a “favourable opinion” towards the organization when applying. Basically, no haters allowed. On top of that, you have to demonstrate a genuine desire of Masonic knowledge and a wish…

Certain aspects of your life would need to change if you become a Freemason. So, if you enjoy a few beers during your spare time, that’s OK as we are a very social organisation – but any more than a few, runs the risk of breaking the Freemasons’ cardinal virtue of temperance. Anyone prosecuted for…

Somewhat paradoxically, whilst every Freemason has stated that we believe in a supreme being, religious conversations are actually banned inside the Lodges. Like Politics, Religion is one subject that even like-minded individuals can fall out over, so conversation about Religion is simply ‘banned’.

The events of every meeting are transcribed by the Lodge Secretary who sends out draft minutes after the meeting giving everyone the opportunity to examine them and request corrections. At the meeting, the Worshipful Master asks if every Brother is satisfied with the accuracy of the minutes recorded and if so, they are signed at…

While most of our rules and rituals are shrouded in mystery, one particular aspect has been spoken about – and often mocked – for years. Yes, we’re referring to the secret handshake. But there’s not just one! It’s all to do with your rank within the Fraternity, as the greeting you use changes as you…