05/13/08

What is a Mason?

Freemasons are respectable citizens who are taught to conform to the moral laws of society and to abide by the laws of the government under which they live. They are men of charity and good works. They remain as the cornerstones of one of "the World's greatest philanthropy's!" Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of "making good men better." Only individuals believed to be of finest character are favorably considered for Membership.

Today, more than four million Freemasons around the world come from virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, all meet as equals and friends. One of the most fascinating aspects of Freemasonry has always been: how so many men, from so many different walks of life, can meet together in peace, never have any political or religious debates, always conduct their affairs in harmony and friendship, and call each other "Brother!"

The Freemasons contribute more than one million dollars every day to charitable causes which they alone, have established. These services to mankind represent an unparalleled example of the humanitarian commitment and concern of this unique and honorable Fraternity.
 

Introduction Freemasonry is the oldest and largest worldwide fraternity dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of the Supreme Being.  Although of a religious nature, Freemasonry is not a religion.  It urges its members however, to be faithful and devoted to their own religious beliefs. The organization of Freemasonry is based on a system of Grand Lodges, each sovereign within its own territory.  There is no central authority governing all Grand Lodges.  However, to be acknowledged by others, acceptable traditions, standards and practices must be maintained. In our Province, the governing body is called the Grand Lodge of Alberta.  It is under the leadership of a Grand Master.  He presides over the 60,000 Masons who belong to one or more of the 649 lodges in our jurisdiction.  Each of these lodges is under the direction of a Master.   What Freemasonry Does As a fraternity, Freemasonry provides an opportunity for all men to meet and enjoy friendly companionship.  In the spirit of helpfulness and brotherly love and guides by strict moral principles, it encourages goodwill towards all mankind. Freemasonry is of a personal nature in its private ceremonies.  Its ritual dramatizes a philosophy of life based on morality.  It promotes self-improvement.  The tools of operative Masons are used to symbolize and teach the basic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth which Masons are encouraged to practice in their daily lives.  Charity is a tangible way in which Masons help those whose circumstances in life fairly warrant it. Freemasonry is a university of man, where we learn and adapt to the needs of our fellow creatures, develop a greater tolerance and appreciation for others, empathize  with the lot of the other person and support each other in a meaningful way.  We become better persons, citizens, husbands and fathers.        FREEMASONRY ALSO . . .                       -Promotes fellowship,  strong friendships and mutual trust. -Is a Quality institution that promotes high personal standards -Emphasizes  the importance of high moral values and truth -Promotes personal development and self-advancement -Brings together like-minded men -Stresses the importance of wives, children and families -Does NOT do fund raising  -Supports members and their families -Supports widows and children of deceased brethren -Practices charity within the Community