How to Become a Freemason

Freemasonry is the largest and oldest fraternal order in the world, crossing all religious boundaries to bring men together of all countries, sects, and opinion in peace and harmony. Its members have included major religious figures, kings, and presidents To join the brotherhood, you must demonstrate the values that have been shared by millions of Masons for hundreds of years.
How to Become a Freemason
Freemason John Paul Gomez says you have to be a man, profess that you believe in a supreme being (like God), and be of good moral character (i.e., not a convicted felon) to become a freemason. To apply, tell a member you’re interested in joining or fill out a form on your local lodge’s website.
Section 1 of 6:
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a spiritual fraternal organization for all the way back to the 14th century, Freemasonry (or just “Masonry”) is a fraternity for men who believe in a higher power. It’s not as strict or dogmatic as a religion but not as casual as a social club. Masons attend meetings at their local “lodge” where they discuss spiritual topics, gather in friendship, and work together to grow.
Freemasons are the subject of a lot of conspiracy theories, but Masonry is basically just a semi-religious social club for men who want to be leaders in their community. There’s nothing nefarious about it.
Freemasons do participate in rituals, but they’re not “secret” or designed to do anything nefarious. Masonry’s ceremonies are no more radical or unique than any other spiritual tradition.
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Section 2 of 6:
Basic Requirements
Be a man at least 18 years of age.This is the most basic requirement under most Grand Lodge (the center of authority for Freemason groups) jurisdictions. You must be a man and you must be old enough to vote.
There are two variations of Masonry for women—the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honorable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons. These are considered “separate” from the core Freemason system, though.
Note: Some jurisdictions only accept men who are 21 and over. However, exceptions are made for the sons of members, or university students.
Believe in any supreme being or higher power.Freemasons do not require belief in a specific God (i.e. you do not have to be Christian, Jewish, Muslim, etc.). However, you must believe in a God or God-like being. You must believe in a God or deity above all others. People from all religious backgrounds are welcome as long as this holds true.
What if I’m not a practicing religious person? That’s okay! Whatever lodge you end up joining won’t poke, prod, or investigate your beliefs. You don’t have to attend a church regularly or anything like that. All you need to do is believe in a higher power in your heart.
Be of good moral character.This may be the most important quality to have as a potential Freemason. The fraternity's motto is, "Better men make a better world," and honor, personal integrity, and responsibility are essential. You must be able to demonstrate that you are a man with good character.
Some lodges require you to have a good reputation. They may ask someone to vouch for your character.
Some chapters need you to be a good family member who has the means to support your family (if you have one).
Some lodges actually run background checks, but this seems more common in the UK and Australia.
Have a pure motivation for joining the Masons.Many people seek to enter the fraternity because they heard about it in movies, books, and mainstream media. Freemasonry is often portrayed as a secret society that is trying to take over the world. The truth is that Freemasonry is just an organization for regular men who strive to support each other in fellowship, friendship, and good citizenship.
If you do join expecting to get let into some secret society conspiracy meeting, you’re going to be very disappointed. There are rituals, but they’re mostly symbolic. Most lodge meetings consist of mundane business and educational activities.
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Section 3 of 6:
Why become a Freemason?
You’ll find camaraderie and friendship in a tight-knit community.Being a Mason grants you entrance to the monthly gatherings at Freemason lodges, where you commune with fellow Masons. Here, you’ll engage with the teachings on the history of Freemasonry. You’ll also participate in the ancient rites of Freemasonry, such as the handshake, rituals of initiation, and free use of the Masonic square and compass symbol. All of this takes place among a community of men who care about one another.
If you feel a little “lost” and you think you’d benefit from more actionable direction and community support, Freemasonry might be right for you.
You’ll be intellectually stimulated and personally challenged.Freemasons pride themselves on being the best possible versions of themselves, and your lodge’s community will challenge you to push yourself. Whether it’s checking in to make sure you’re not resting on your laurels professionally or pushing you to take the leap and sign up for that master’s degree, your fellow Masons will help you become the best you.



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