Freemasonry is the oldest, largest and most widely recognized fraternal organization in the world. Founded in London, England in 1717, its current worldwide membership totals 3.6 million members, 1.6 million of which are in North America. With 120,000 Masons and 530 local Lodges, Ohio has one of the largest Masonic memberships of any state in the country.
As a fraternal organization, Freemasonry unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic, or social backgrounds, share a belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind.
The traditions of Freemasonry are founded upon the building of King Solomon’s Temple, and its fraternal ceremonies use the working tools of the stonemasons to symbolize moral lessons and truths. For example, Masons are reminded at Lodge to “meet upon the level of equality, act by the plumb of uprightness, and part upon the square of virtue.”
Like most organizations, one will get out of Freemasonry what he is able to put into it. However, membership in Freemasonry is not meant in any way to interfere with an individual’s commitment to his faith, family, or occupation. Freemasonry is not and never can be a replacement for these important institutions, but rather it is a positive environment that reminds every Mason of his duty to God, his community, his family and himself.
Freemasonry provides opportunities for sincere, honest, forthright men who believe in God and desire to contribute to the improvement of their communities and themselves. Through our Masonic Fraternalism, we reaffirm our dedication and unity to become involved citizens who have a strong desire to preserve the values that have made and continue to make America great.
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Freemasonry is the oldest Fraternal Organization in recorded history . Freemasonry is NOT a secret organization! If it were so, you would not see Masons wearing rings and buildings with the Masonic symbols displayed.
Freemasonry is NOT a Religion or a Religious place of worship, although we always have a Familiar Religious Script open whenever Lodge is in session.
Freemasonry does not proclaim to give or help you get salvation. It serves only to help Men live better and more Moral lives. Freemasonry is something that dwells in a Mans heart. Freemasonry never seeks out members. Members seek out Freemasonry.
So if you know someone who is a Freemason and they have never asked you to join, it is not because they do not desire to have you in their organization, it is simply that they cannot ask you to join. YOU have to ask them!
Rumors have it that certain religious backgrounds will prevent you from becoming a Mason. This is NOT true. Freemasonry is open to all religions. Your religion may prevent you from joining, but Masonry does not, we welcome you with open arms. Everyone in Freemasonry meets on the same level. No one is more of a Mason than any other. Rich, poor, highly educated, or no education; everyone is the same. Your past history can effect you, but if you have put your past behind you some time ago and have lived a Moral life since, then you may be surprised what you can accomplish in Freemasonry.
So now you know. Find a Free Mason. Ask him how to obtain a petition. Fill it out and turned it in. Start your Masonic travels today!