Frequently asked questions about Freemasonry. FAQs About Freemasonry. Click on each Title to expand the information contained within each panel. What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is an organisation of men who strive to live by the fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill and charity. It is a non-profit organisation that is heavily involved in supporting charity and community service.
Freemasonry is a society that unifies men of high ideals, regardless of colour, creed or worldly status. What kind of charitable works are Freemasons involved in? Freemasons of New Zealand are involved with organisations who support the elderly, care for the young, inspire medical research, help those affected by natural disaster and much more. We support people in the community through special grants or a helping hand in times of need.
We arrange fundraising to support other community organisations. We give recognition to people and organisations that do good deeds in the community.
Is it a secret society? This is a misconception. Until recently the policy was for members to be rather discreet about the organisation, their community work and even their membership but times have changed. The real point of a Freemason promising not to reveal them is basically a dramatic way of testing the good character of those who join — to become a Freemason requires a person to continually observe, with total sincerity, the high ideals of integrity, goodwill and confidentiality.
Is Freemasonry a religion? Freemasonry is not a religion. Traditionally there is a bible or bibles in all Lodge Rooms. Provisions are made for the presence of the appropriate Holy Books, according to the beliefs of members. This is because Freemasonry is truly a non-sectarian organisation. But there are some expenses involved; particularly a one-time initiation fee and annual dues. The amount varies, as each Lodge sets its own fees and dues.
Some lodges will charge more than these amounts and some charge less. Finally, there are Grand Lodge dues. Part of the mystique of Freemasonry can be attributed to speculation about its roots. Over the years, historians have never been able to conclusively determine exactly when, where, how, and why Freemasonry was formed. The order is thought to have arisen from the English and Scottish guilds of practicing stonemasons and cathedral builders in the Middle Ages.
Certain Masonic documents actually trace the sciences of geometry and masonry to the time of ancient Egypt, and some historians say that Masonry has its real roots in antiquity.
Over the last four centuries, Freemasonry seems to have flourished during times of great enlightenment and change. It is no coincidence that Freemasonry rose to prominence during the Age of Enlightenment in both Europe and America. That was the time when a new generation believed it could discover ways to gain personal improvement, bring order to society, and understand the whole universe. This statement is perhaps even stronger today than it was in the 18th century. Today, men seek out Masonry for the same reasons — to better themselves and improve society in the company of like-minded brothers.
There are numerous benefits to being a Mason, but they tend to be personal, and quite varied. The benefits can only be truly discovered by becoming a member. But we can try and give you an idea. Without question you will have the opportunity to experience camaraderie and fellowship with a group of men across the boundaries of age, race, religion, culture, and opinion. This is a fundamental concept to the Fraternity.
Many find great value and knowledge in our ritual ceremony — it uses symbolism and metaphors to encourage and remind us to appreciate principles, ethics, and morality, and to live our lives accordingly. Others find great satisfaction in our charitable efforts, community service, and the support we provide our members and their families. Finally, for those who take on leadership positions within their lodge, they have the chance to develop or further very practical management skills.
Freemasonry is, by definition, a fraternity that aims to promote Brotherly Love and Friendship among its members. It is a worldwide organization that draws together men and helps cultivate and promote better relationships and the bonds of friendships between them. Masons also appreciate and value relations with women. Masonry is not a religion. But because it is open to all men who believe in a Supreme Being, it is one of the few platforms where men of all faiths — Christians including Catholics , Jews, Muslims, and men of every other faith, can come together.
Religion, though, is not discussed at Masonic meetings. Although Lodges open and close with a prayer and Masonry teaches morality, it is not a church or a religion. Masonry does not have a theology or a dogma, it does not offer sacraments, and it does not offer the promise of salvation.
Freemasons believe in a certain reverence for all living things and a tenderness toward people who suffer. A loving kindness for our fellow man, and a desire to do right because it is a matter of principle. Freemasonry teaches that although all men are fallible and capable of much wrong, when they discover the goodness of heart, they have found the true essence of virtue.
Masonry helps men see their potential for deep goodness and virtue. Are you willing to give help to a fraternal Brother when he needs it, and to accept their help when you need it? Freemasonry teaches and requires mutual help and understanding among its Brothers. Help comes in many forms, including financial; however, making yourself available to fellow Brothers by offering compassion, support, a sympathetic ear, or warning of approaching danger are all supported by Freemasonry.
Do you believe that men should strive to live a Brotherly life? Masons see Brotherhood as a form of wisdom and a bond that holds men together. It is a private friendship that requires us to be just in our dealings, and to refuse to speak evil of each other. Freemasons believe a man should maintain an attitude of good will, and promote unity and harmony is his relations with others, his family and community.
Masons term this as a way of believing in the Brotherhood of Man. It means that every Mason makes it his duty to follow the golden rule. This is why Masonry has been called one of the greatest forces for good in the world. If you answered YES to all of these questions, you should consider becoming a Freemason within the Jurisdiction of Florida. Freemasonry offers to its members the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference, and to build a better world for our children.
0コメント