What is Freemasonry?

Imagine a historical club, rooted in the stonemasons' guilds of old, that's transformed into a journey of self-improvement. Craft Freemasonry, its foundation, guides members through three degrees – Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason – using symbolic ceremonies and allegories to impart moral lessons. It's a community where individuals connect, united by values like brotherly love, relief, and truth, striving to "build" their character rather than structures of stone. This system of ethical instruction, rich in symbolism from ancient tools, fosters personal growth and strong fraternal bonds.

 

What happens in a lodge ?

The Lodge's meeting space, or Temple, has a special layout where each Officer has a designated place, showing how important their jobs are to keeping things running smoothly. Meetings are usually split into two parts, and everyone gets a notice, called a Summons, that tells them what will be discussed. The first part is for business, like hearing about Lodge news, voting on new members, talking about money, and checking the minutes from last time. Then, in the second part, they perform a ceremony. These consist of the following;

 

  • First Degree (Ceremony of Initiation): The first step in a Freemason’s journey, where a candidate is formally initiated into the Lodge, taking an oath and committing to the principles of Freemasonry—Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service.
  • Second Degree (Ceremony of Passing): The candidate progresses to the Fellowcraft Degree. This Degree encourages exploration of nature, science, and self within the universe.
  • Third Degree (Ceremony of Raising): The final stage of the Craft, symbolising self-reflection, moral growth, and the contemplation of life's deeper meanings.
  • Installation Ceremony: Marks the appointment of the new Worshipful Master, who takes over the leadership of the Lodge and appoints the other Officers for the year.

 

 

Freemasonry Offices - Craft lodges 

A Lodge cannot function without its Officers, who each play a crucial role in its operations.

The Worshipful Master 

Past Master Of The Lodge 

The Wardens 

The Senior and Junior Deacons

Inner Guard

Steward

Tyler 

Secretary

Director of Ceremonies

Treasurer

Chaplin

Lodge Mentor 

Charity Steward 

Almoner

The Festive board 

After the Lodge meeting, members gather for a Festive Board: a formal dinner where they socialise and enjoy fellowship. A dedicated toast is made by members of the Lodge to celebrate the occasion.