In the Province of Yorkshire, North & East Ridings.
Freemasons use four important guiding principles to help define their path through life: integrity, friendship, respect and charity.
In today's world filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true as they have at any point in the organisation's history.
One of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world, Freemasonry's roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles.
Membership is open to people from all backgrounds and the organisation's aim is to empower members to be the best they can be - it's about building character, supporting members as individuals, and helping them make a positive contribution to society.
Freemasonry provides a structure for members to come together under these common goals, enabling people to make new friendships, develop themselves and make valuable contributions to charitable causes.
Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today's Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to achieve that goal.
At an individual level, being a Freemason gives members a sense of purpose, supporting and guiding them on their journey through life.
Collectively, members are bonded through a sense of unity and equitability - principles fundamental to Freemasonry.
FRIENDSHIP: Building together
One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology.
It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
Being a Freemason means something different to each person who joins, but whether looking to make acquaintances or develop their own potential, all members share a sense of togetherness that strengthens their ability to succeed and grow.
RESPECT:
Building unity
With a membership of more than 200,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society.
Our members are proud to be Freemasons,and they are encouraged to talk openly about what the organisation does and what it means to be a part of it.
Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry. The organisation provides a support structure that helps members make positive contributions to communities and worthwhile causes through fundraising events or volunteer work.
Individuals can make an important contribution at local, national and global level by giving both their time and money.
Thanks to their efforts, Freemasonry is one of the largest charitable givers in the country, contributing more than £48m to deserving causes in 2018 alone.
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