How to Become a Mason Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of “making good men better.” Only individuals believed to be of the finest character are favorably considered for Membership. Every applicant must advocate his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being. The mission of Freemasonry is to promote a way of life that binds like minded men into a worldwide Brotherhood that transcends all religious, ethnic, cultural, social and educational differences; by teaching the great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth: and, by the outward expression of these, through its fellowship, its compassion and its concern, to find ways in which each may serve his God, his family, his country, his neighbors and himself.” “Ask and it will be given to you; Seek and you will find; Knock and the door will be opened on to you” Matthew 7:7 Membership in a Masonic Lodge is on a volunteer basis only. Membership should never be solicited for it is our belief that true service and dedication must first come from the heart. A person seeking membership must first contact a Mason whom he knows to be in good standing. That member will take the necessary steps to allow the candidate to fill out a petition. Requirements For Membership:

• Be a man who comes of his own free will.
• Believe in a Supreme Being. (Not an Atheist)
• Be at least the minimum age (from 18–25 years old depending on the jurisdiction).
• Be of good morals, and of good reputation.
• Be of sound mind and body (Lodges had in the past denied membership to a man because of a physical disability, however, now, if a potential candidate says a disability will not cause problems, it will not be held against him).
• Be free-born (or “born free”, i.e. not born a slave or bondsman). As with the previous, this is entirely an historical holdover, and can be interpreted in the same manner as it is in the context of being entitled to write a will. Some jurisdictions have removed this requirement.
• Be capable of furnishing character references, as well as one or two references from current Masons, depending on jurisdiction.
• You must decide to become a Mason of “your own free will and accord”
• You will need to express your personal interest in joining the Fraternity.
• You must have a sincere determination to conduct yourself in a manner that will earn the respect and trust of others and possess a desire to help others through community service and universal benevolence.