What Is Freemasonry

Introduction

Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. This section of the site  is intended to explain Freemasonry as it is practised under the United Grand Lodge of England,  which administers Lodges of Freemasons in England and Wales and in many places overseas. The  explanation may correct some misconceptions.

Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are  taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow acient forms and use stonemasons'  customs and tools as allegorical guides.

The Essential Qualification for both Membership admission and continuation is a belief in a Supreme  Being.

Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and  are of good repute.

The Three Great Principles
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:

• Brotherly Love
  Every ture Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave  with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.
• Relief
  Freemasons are taught to practise charity, and to care, not only for their own, but also for  the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as  individuals.
• Truth
  Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in  their own lives.