Basic qualifications
The qualifications to join a lodge vary from one jurisdiction to another, but some basic qualifications are common to all regular Masonic lodges:-
You must believe in a supreme being.
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You must be joining of your own free will.
Don’t let your dad, uncle, neighbor, or friend pressure you into joining. Join because you want to. -
You must be a man.
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You must be free-born.
The term free-born is a holdover from the days when slavery, indentured servitude, and bonding were common. It means that a man must be his own master, and not be bound to another man. That’s not a problem these days, but the language is retained because of its antiquity and a desire to retain the heritage of the fraternity. -
You must be of lawful age. Depending on the Grand Lodge, this can be anywhere from 18 to 25.
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You must come recommended by at least two existing Freemasons from the lodge you’re petitioning.
Masonry doesn’t care about your worldly wealth or social position. Both a bank’s president and janitor can apply for membership, and they’re considered equally qualified.
Questions you might be asked
You’ll be asked other important questions down the road before you’re allowed to join a lodge:-
Are you unbiased by friends and uninfluenced by any mercenary motives? Don’t apply for membership if you think you’ll be using your membership card to get out of a speeding ticket or to network for your business.
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Do you have a favorable opinion of Freemasonry? You should have a desire for knowledge and a sincere wish to be of service to mankind. If you’re merely curious about what goes on behind locked doors, just read the rest of this book.
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Do you agree to follow the rules? Nothing especially scary here. Health clubs and city parks have the same requirement.
