Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire><br /> <h1 class=About freemasonry

Your Questions Answered - continued

Why don't you have women members?
Traditionally freemasonry has been restricted to men there are, however, two grand lodges in England restricted to women only

What links do you have with other societies or political parties?
Freemasonry has no formal or informal connections to other orders, such as Oddfellows, Buffaloes, the Orange Order etc. nor to any political party

How can I find more about freemasonry?

  • Many masonic halls hold open days
  • Many lodges invite non-masons to their 'festive boards' and will openly discuss freemasonry and provide information about their particular lodge
  • Grand lodge provides information booklets for members of the public
  • All members are encouraged to talk openly about freemasonry

In summary, what are the benefits?

  • Making new friends with men who hold the same moral and social values
  • Contributing to charitable activities which benefit both masons and the wider community
  • Through participation in our ceremonies an enhancement of personal attributes, such as social and team skills, self-confidence, self-esteem and inner well being
  • Having a 'ready made' group of friends wherever you may choose to live
  • Enjoying social events, generally open to wives, partners and friends
  • What are the requirements for joining a lodge?
  • Men over 21 years, with the exception of Old Mancunians' Lodge (click to access website) which accepts men of 18 years of age who are undergraduates
  • a belief in a supreme being (for Christians this would be God)
  • the ability to pay lodge subscriptions and contribute to charity, have time to attend our meetings without having an adverse impact on their family
  • No desire to seek preferment or material gain from being a member

How can I become a member of a lodge?

  • Speak to any mason who knows you and is willing to recommend you as a member
  • Ask what the subscriptions are and when the lodge meets etc. to ensure that this meets with your personal circumstances
  • Meet with members of the lodge to enable them to understand your reasons for wanting to join and for you to find out more about the lodge and freemasonry
  • Complete an application form

How many freemasons are there?

  • In England and Wales there are about 300,000 members
  • There are over 8000 lodges
  • There are separate Grand Lodges for Ireland and Scotland with a membership of 150,000
  • Worldwide there are approximately 5 million members

    Making Good men Better men

     

    Is Freemasonry
    for you?

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