How do you become a Mason and what is it really? I have a friend who says he is a traveling man, I asked how to become one but he couldn't speak really.

by Micheal
(Houston, Texas)

I was inquiring on how to become a Mason and it's origin. I read that you have to believe in a higher power which I do. I was just seeking a little knowledge if you could help with the spirituality aspect of Masonry.

Comments for How do you become a Mason and what is it really? I have a friend who says he is a traveling man, I asked how to become one but he couldn't speak really.

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Dec 16, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks for asking
by: Bob

The basic rule is that no atheist or agnostic can become a Freemason; applicants must believe in a higher power. We do not however ask them to define that belief. In lodge, prayers are said, but they are of an ecumenical nature, for we believe that a man’s religion is between him and the Almighty. Further, two topics are strictly forbidden for discussion, one being politics and the other religion, for these are things which often lead to discord. We merely ask our members to respect each other’s faith.

Does that help?
Dec 16, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Further to that
by: Bob

I see I didn't answer all your questions.

How to become a Mason? Well, one of our cast-in-concrete rules is that a Mason will never ask somebody to join or even suggest it. You need to ask. Just say to your friend, "How does a man join?" or "I'd like to find out more about joining," or "I'm considering joining. Please tell me more."

If he doesn't take it from there, there may be another issue I'm not aware of. In such a case, you could approach a local lodge or your state grand lodge, both of which should be in the phone book or on the Net.


So, that said, what is Freemasonry? It's many things, to be honest and what a Mason gets out of it depends a lot on him and on what work he is willing to put into it.

At its heart, at a basic foundation level, Freemasonry is a philosophical system of morality which uses a lot of symbols and allegories as teaching tools. The effects are subtle and take a long time to work.

It's a fraternity, a place to associate with like-minded men. For some of us, that's enough - just getting out for an evening with male friends is a good thing.

Some Masons really get into Masonic history, which is convoluted and fascinating in its own way. Others are primarily interested in the symbolism.

Some really enjoy the visitation. A man who can prove he's a Mason in good standing can be assured of a warm welcome almost anywhere in the world. Meeting people is for them a lot of fun.

We're not a charity, but we do charitable work and that's nice.

So, like the social media site says, it's complicated.

Hope that helps. Please tell me if I've missed anything.
Dec 16, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		What are masons
by: Fred

Hi Mike,
Thank you very much for submitting your questions. Bob has done a great job in describing what we are, and has covered the subject very well, as always. I am a bit concerned about what you think we are, so I will go over what we are not.

We are not a secret society, although we do have and keep secrets. Those secrets are "members only" information that allows us, when examined, to prove that we are members. The secrets are intended for identity purposes, and different degrees have different identifying information. Our buildings can be identified by the Square and Compasses, usually displayed on the outside of the building. Some masons have license plates that display Masonic affiliations. So it’s no secret that we exist, and who our members are, although it’s not advertised publicly.

We are not a cult!!! Any member can leave masonry at any time, and nothing will happen.

We are not a group that’s joined for personal or financial gain.

Just a few things that we are not...what we are, is an ancient and honorable fraternity that makes good men better.

Thanks


Fred
Dec 16, 2019
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by: Fred

Mike,
I reread your question, and I’m trying to decipher your friend’s answer. Most Masons would gladly tell you what Bob and I have shared on line so far, and if you read the questions from others, will see that without revealing any "secret" information, a lot has been shared here. I’m starting to wonder if your friend ya really a "traveling man," or like so many others, just saying that for the reactions it brings.

Thanks

Fred :.

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