How can one become a freemason?

by Mario
(Montana)

Mario,

Thank you for visiting Masonsmart, and for asking this quite common question. It's a very good question and we, as Masons, have not done a very good job of making this information readily available.

The process of becoming a Freemason is basically the same the world over. The first step is to contact a Freemason. This can be as easy as picking up the local telephone directory, or it can be quite difficult. In some parts of the world Freemasons are still, out of necessity, very secretive. Those in power, both politically and religiously, are uneasy with Freemasonry's teachings of universal brotherhood and unbridled freedom. Confused societal opinions sometimes dictate that Freemasons meet and act discreetly. Fortunately, in the U.S. it is a pretty straightforward process. Look in the phone book; look for a building in your town with the Masonic Square & Compasses emblem on the outside; ask around. Don't be shy. There's no reason to be. Just make contact and let them know that you are interested.

Once you have made contact with a Brother he will want to get to know you. In general, in order for you to become a Freemason two members of the Order will have to recommend you for membership. So, you will have to spend some time with them. Get to know them, and allow them to get to know you. In order for them to be comfortable in recommending you for membership they must know that you are a man of honor, decency, and morality. One thing you should know up front: no atheist can be made a Freemason. This point is universal the world over. You must believe in and confess your belief in a supreme being. However, your idea of this being and how you relate to him is a personal matter and of no bearing in Freemasonry.

After your initial contact, getting to know some of the Brethren, and letting them get to know you as an honorable man you will officially petition a Lodge for membership. From this point on the process of membership is underway and there is really nothing more for you to do but wait while the process runs its course. Generally, an investigating committee from the Lodge will contact you and they will want to meet with you and get to know you, as well. This is a time for you and those close to you to ask further questions regarding the Order and what you may expect and what may be expected of you. If possible, your family and loved ones should be involved in the decision. Freemasonry is not intended to interfere with family. The committee will report on their investigation and, if favorable, the Lodge will vote on your petition for membership. Assuming the vote is also favorable your 1st Degree can then be scheduled.

This is not an easy process, nor one that should be taken lightly. When you become a Freemason you make certain promises and place yourself under certain obligations that will continue for the rest of your life. Rest assured, however, that these promises and obligations are nothing to which any good man would dissent.

I hope this information is useful to you and that I have not painted an overwhelming vision of the process of becoming a Freemason. In most parts of the world it is a relatively simple and painless process. Joining the Freemasons was without a doubt the best decision I have ever made for myself, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to any good man who desires to be of service to his fellow man.

If I can be of any further assistance please don't hesitate to contact me again.

Fraternally,

Tim Couch