Question: What is Freemasonry?

It is often said that Freemasonry… ‘Makes good men better.’ As well as being one of the World’s oldest secular fraternal societies, Freemasonry is an enjoyable association of like-minded men who work towards a common goal of being happy and communicating happiness to others. This is achieved by work in the Lodge and through our work in the community. The work in the Lodge is largely based on a series of ritual ceremonies.  Their purpose is to seek to instill morality by teaching and practicing high standards of conduct. This aim is furthered at dinners held after Lodge meetings and at other social occasions involving wives and families

Question: Why Become a Freemason?

People become Freemasons for a variety of reasons, some as the result of family tradition, others on the introduction of a friend or just out of curiosity to find out what it’s all about. Freemasonry means different things to each of those who join. For some, it’s about making new friends and acquaintances. For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and community. But for most, it’s an enjoyable hobby. They enjoy the challenges and friendship that Freemasonry offers and the participation in the ceremonies, providing a member with the opportunity to learn about himself and become a better person.

Question: Who can become a Mason?

In Lodge Temperance 2557, which is under the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of England, It is usual for candidates to be 21 years and over, but in some circumstances candidates between the ages of 18 and 21 can be admitted. We do not admit women, but equally, there are other branches of Masonry that accept both men and women, or women only such as the Order of Women Freemasons.

Question: What are the requirements to become a Mason?

You should believe in a Supreme Being.

You should be coming to Masonry “of your own free will and accord”.

You should not have any criminal convictions.

You should enjoy the company of other’s from a wide range of social and working environments.

If you are a family man, it is very important that your family obligations come first, and your partner is supportive of your membership.

You should be able to afford the joining fees and continuing membership fees without hardship to your family.

Your time commitment will be to attend six meetings per year, and as you progress you will be invited to attend committee meetings and practices.

You should be willing to take part in our rituals.

You should understand and accept that Freemasonry does not exist to assist its Members in their business or employment.

Lodge Temperance 2557 raises money for Masonic and non-Masonic charities through raffles, collections and social events.  Members of the Lodge are not expected to contribute beyond their means and an individual’s contribution is very much a personal matter.

Question: What Is Meant By ‘A Supreme Being’?

The essential qualification for admission and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. By this we mean belief in a God of any name, irrespective of its origins. Membership is open to members of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good repute. How you practice your religion is regarded as a strictly personal matter and members of different faiths happily co-exist in Freemasonry.

Question: How much does it cost

On entry to Lodge Temperance 2557, there is a one-off joining fee of £230 which includes the first year’s annual subscription. A member then pays an annual subscription which covers his membership to UGLE, Provincial Grand Lodge and the rent for the Lodge. The annual subscription in Lodge Temperance 2557 is £135. It is usual to have a meal after the meeting, the cost of which is paid for separately at the time.

It is entirely up to the individual member what he gives to Charity, but it should always be without detriment to his other responsibilities. Similarly, he may join as many Lodges as his time and pocket can allow.

Question: What happens in a Lodge Meeting

A Lodge meeting is usually in several parts. There is a certain amount of administration such as reading and approving minutes of the last meeting, proposing and balloting for new Members, discussing and voting on financial matters, election of Officers, news and correspondence.

Then there are the ceremonies for making new masons and the annual Installation of the Master and appointment of his Officers.

Each of the three degrees, for making a new Mason, involve a series of short rituals based on ancient stories and customs, teaching the principle of the craft and the candidate’s various duties using drama, allegory and symbolism. Inside the Lodge everyone is equal and everyone must pass through the historic rituals that have remained essentially the same for hundreds of years. They may seem a bit silly, taken out of context, but they have a genuine and sincere purpose.

After the Ceremony is completed more administrative matters take place before the meeting is closed.

After the meeting we have a ‘Festive Board’ which is a relaxed meal among friends. Formal toasts are made to the Queen, the Craft, distinguished Brethren, and to the Worshipful Master and Officers of the Lodge. A raffle is normal, with proceeds going to good causes supported by the Lodge and our members.

Question: How Do I Apply to Join the Freemasons?

It’s a lot easier than you might think. You can ask someone you know is a Mason or send our Secretary an e-mail, providing him with your contact details. A Member of our Lodge will then contact you to explain in more detail what is involved.

Question: What Happens When I Apply?

We’ll arrange for a couple of our members to meet with you informally at a convenient location to enable you to ask questions. If we have a social function planned we’ll invite you along to meet our members and take a look around the Lodge room.

If you’re sure you want to join Freemasonry you will be invited to meet the Master and other senior members of the Lodge for an interview. Suitable candidates will be proposed at our next meeting and a ballot will be held and if successful, you will be given a date for your initiation into Freemasonry.

You will be supported, mentored and encouraged throughout your masonic journey.