What is Freemasonry?

An insight into Freemasonry…

Freemasonry dates back to the 17th Century and now exists in many forms all over the world. There are approx. 5 Million Freemasons around the globe.

Our goal is to provide a positive insight into what freemasonry has to offer. Within this website you will find out about Freemasonry in general, about Waddon Lodge in particular and the Province of Surrey

Freemasonry may be summed up in the following manner; a moral code; a study in the art of life; a way of life. The fraternity is based on these three principles:

 

Brotherly Love:

Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow man.

Relief:

Freemasons are taught to practice 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.

 

Freemasonry means different things to each individual who joins a lodge. For some members, it’s about making new friends and acquaintances. For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes and/or making a contribution to family and society. But for most, it is an enjoyable hobby.Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies. Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry. The following information 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.

Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its principles (moral lessons and self-knowledge) by a series of ritual dramas – a progression of allegorical two-part plays which are learnt by heart and performed within each Lodge – which follow ancient forms, and use stonemasons’ customs and tools as allegorical guides.

Freemasonry instils in its members a moral and ethical approach to life: its values are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Members are urged to regard the interests of the family as paramount but, importantly, Freemasonry also teaches concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need.

Charity

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today.

In addition, large sums are given to national and local charities.