What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is one of the world’s largest and oldest non-religious and non-political fraternal and charitable organisations. It is open to people from all walks of life, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation or socio-economic position in society.

Our quest is no more than to encourage men to discover their true potential, to cultivate and enhance their talents, and then to put those attributes to work, not only for their own benefit, but for the good of mankind in general.

The answer to the question, “what is Freemasonry” is simple, it is about you, the individual, it is about you becoming the best you can be, a confident, assured person, who conducts himself with integrity, honesty and humility.

You can approach any Mason to find out more of what we do, you may also enquire through this website, we are always delighted to receive enquiries from anyone interested in joining Freemasonry. If you decided to join, then the Brother you approached would become your proposer. It will be his duty to guide you through the process of becoming a member. If at any time he’s not available, then any other experienced Brother will always be there to answer your questions, give guidance, and help you along. Helping others is part of being a Mason.

Freemasonry 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. Organised Freemasonry, as we know it today, began with the founding of the first Grand Lodge on 24 June 1717 at the Goose and Gridiron Ale House in St Paul’s Churchyard.

It was formed by the agreement of four London Lodges, the oldest of which was thought to have existed in 1691. Evidence of the movement’s existence prior to 1691 is sparse, so the true origins remain a mystery.

However, there is general agreement amongst historians and researchers that Freemasonry developed, either directly or indirectly, from the medieval stonemasons – otherwise known as Operative Masons – who built the great cathedrals and castles.