Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies.  This text 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.  The explanation may correct some misconceptions.  Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values.  It’s members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms and uses stonemasons’ customs and tools as allegorical guides.  

The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being.  

Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and be of good repute.

The Three Great Principles

For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles :

Brotherly Love - Every Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinion of others and behave with kindness
and understanding to his fellow creatures.

Truth - Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.

Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards of life.

Charity - Freemasons are taught to practise charity, and to care, not only for their own, but for the community as a
whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.  From its earliest days, Freemasonry
has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and aged.  This work continues today.  In addition, large sums
are given to national and local charities.

Secrecy

The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of recognition.  It is not a secret society, since all
members are free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in response to enquiries for respectable reasons.

Its constitutions and rules are available to the public.  There is no secret to any of its aims and principles.  Like many
other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs are as private matters for its members.

Freemasonry and Society

Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives.  Its
principles do not in any way conflict with its members’ duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their
public and private responsibilities.  The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else’s
business, professional or personal interests, is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought
admission to Freemasonry.  His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any
attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to his prime duty.

Freemasonry and Religion

Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a substitute for religion.  Its essential qualifications opens it to men of many religions
and it expects them to continue to follow their own faith.  It does not allow religion to be discussed at its meetings.

Freemasonry and Politics

Freemasonry is non-political, and discussions of politics at Masonic meetings is forbidden.