Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms, and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides

(Source: The United Grand Lodge of England website)

Freemasons like many other societies have private information but this does not make Freemasonry a secret society. The information kept private is concerned with our traditional modes of recognition. It is not a secret society, since all members are free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in response to enquiries for respectable reasons. There is no secret about any of its aims and principles. Like many other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its members.

The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good repute.

(Source: United Grand Lodge of England)

For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:

Brotherly Love - Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.

Relief - Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

Truth - Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.

Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.

(Source: United Grand Lodge of England)

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged.

This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national and local charities. As an example, Freemasons sent £100,00 to the Red Cross to aid victims of the recent Tsunami disaster. This money was sent within 24 hours of the disaster.

(Source: United Grand Lodge of England)

Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith. It does not allow religion to be discussed at its meeting.

(Source: United Grand Lodge of England)

Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives.

Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members' duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities.

The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry.

His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.

(Source: United Grand Lodge of England)

Questions relating to Masonic Policy should be directed to the Provincial Information Officer for the Province of Warwickshire. He can be contacted by email at masons@warwickshirepgl.org, by telephone on 0121 454 4422 or by post at:

Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire,
2 Stirling Road,
Edgbaston,
Birmingham,
B16 9SB.

Questions relating to lodge meeting booking should be directed to the Lodge of Academe via the Contact Us form.