How to Join

Every man has his own reason for wanting to be a part of the greatest fraternity in the world. Regardless of your reason, you will benefit from membership because Freemasonry makes good men better.  In today’s society, men lead busier lives than ever. Many Brothers find Lodge meetings to be an excellent “break from life,” where everyday troubles can be forgotten and Brotherhood prevails. Whatever your reason, Freemasonry has something to offer nearly every man.

To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, one who believes in the existence of a Supreme Being, of good moral character, motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit, prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry, desirous of earning knowledge and willing to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity.

In the past, our tradition was to wait for you to seek membership entirely of your own free will and accord. Today, however, we allow our members to selectively invite men of good character, who will be a credit to our Fraternity. But this doesn’t mean that you have to wait to be invited to join us. Your interest is enough, if you meet the qualifications.

To start the process, you must first submit a petition for membership along with a small fee and form which authorizes a criminal background check.  After the background check is completed and is clear, your petition will be read at a meeting of the Lodge you are seeking to join and published in the Trestleboard (newsletter of the Lodge) for the information of the membership. You will then be visited by a small committee from the Lodge who will ascertain your qualifications and answer any questions you or your family may have regarding Freemasonry. Shortly thereafter, the members will vote on your petition for membership. Once approved, the Lodge will schedule your initiation ceremonies (also known as Degrees), during which you will assume your vows of membership and learn the teachings of Freemasonry.  The one time fee for joining Freemasonry varies with each Lodge, but averages around $250-$300. In addition, members pay dues to their Lodge, averaging around $100-$150 per year.

Freemasonry is a fraternity of brothers who share one common goal: to help each other become better men. We strengthen and improve our character by learning and practicing basic virtues of fraternal love, charity, and truth. Our principles extend far beyond our interactions with each other, and we strive to apply them to our daily lives. All who join Freemasonry must declare their belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, and practice their own personal faith, but the fraternity is neither a religion nor a place to worship. Rather, it is a place where men of all monotheistic creeds can meet and focus on the great truths of peaceful human interaction that are common to all religions.

Freemasonry is not a religion. Your religious beliefs are your own. You must, however, believe in a Supreme Being.

Freemasonry is not a secret society. Our members do not hide their affiliation with us. Many of our activities are open to family and friends.

There is absolutely no hazing permitted in the Masonic fraternity.

There is no requirement to memorize any ritual, but members can choose to participate as they wish.

There are no attendance requirements.