What is Freemasonry
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It is 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.
Here that a number of the famous elements of Freemasonry find their roots. In the medieval era, stonemasons often travelled around to find work in different locations. To demonstrate their level of qualification, they would use grips, words and signs in order to distinguish themselves from unqualified builders.
Freemasonry uses building analogies to teach members how to lead productive lives that benefit the communities that they live in. In the medieval era, stonemasons wore aprons and gloves to protect themselves while working on shaping rough pieces of stone, but in today’s society Freemasons meet to build friendships and communities rather than cathedrals and castles.
What's it all about?
What it means to be a Freemason
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Fun Facts, did you know?
Freemasons are responsible for Manchester City playing in blue. In 1894, facing a financial crisis, Manchester City Football Club was offered a helping hand by the Freemasons. In acknowledgement of the organisation’s act of charity, the club adopted masonic colours, giving them the light blue shirts that are so recognisable to football fans today.
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Our ceremonies are based around three principles that are still taught in our ceremonies today: look after those less fortunate, improve yourself and live life well so as to be remembered for the right reasons.
True to the sense of friendship and togetherness among Freemasons, meetings are also social events, providing an occasion for members to dine together. Outside of the Lodge, activities include community fundraising and volunteering activities, as well as a varied programme of events where spouses, partners, families and friends are welcome
Guiding Principles of Freemasonry
For Freemasons there are four important values that help define our 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.
Integrity
Building Good People
Rather than working on buildings like the stone masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, membership provides the structure to achieve that goal.
Friendship
Building Together
As one of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry provides a common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
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.
Service
Building Compassion
Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations. Service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.
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