General Questions

1. What is Freemasonry?

   Freemasonry is a large secular, fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies (referred to as degrees). Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.

2. What happens at a lodge meeting?

   Lodge meetings are like those of other groups, are open only to members, is normally conducted in two halves.

   Firstly, there are normal administrative procedures such as:

   • Minutes of the previous meeting
   • Proposing and balloting for new members
   • Discussing and voting on the annual accounts
   • Masonic news and correspondence
   • News about charitable work
   • Admitting new members

   Secondly, there are the ceremonies for the conveying of moral lessons and to demonstrate the principles of Freemasonry

   Thirdly, after the lodge meeting, a supper is held (also referred to as a festive board in Queensland) to continue the fellowship.

3. To whom do Masonic charities donate?

   Whilst there are Masonic charities that cater specifically, but not exclusively, for Freemasons or their dependents, others make significant grants to non-Masonic organisations such as a recent donation for a new Electron Microscope for the Queensland Institute of Medical Research in Brisbane.

4. What is Freemasonry's relationship with politics?

   Freemasonry, as a body, will never express a view on politics or state policy. The discussion of politics at Masonic meetings has always been prohibited. It is one of the few places in modern society free from any political discussion.

5. Is Freemasonry an international order?

   Freemasonry exists throughout the world. However, each Grand Lodge is sovereign and independent. There is no international governing body for Freemasonry.

6. Why do you wear regalia?

   Wearing regalia is historic and symbolic. Like a uniform, the regalia indicates the rank of the wearer in the organisation.

Joining

1. Does it take long to join?

   Joining Freemasonry in Queensland will take between 2-5 months generally. It will depend on the time of year and the actual lodge you are applying to join.

2. Why do Freemasons take oaths?

   New members make solemn promises concerning their behaviour both in the Lodge and in society.

   Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other when visiting another Lodge. Freemasons also promise to support others in time of need but only so far as it does not conflict with their family and public obligations.
   

3. Are Freemasons expected to give preference to fellow members?

   Certainly not. This would be unacceptable and may lead to action being taken against those involved. On joining, each new member states that he expects no material gain from membership.

4. Does Freemasonry accept Roman Catholics as members?

   Yes. Today there are many Roman Catholic Freemasons.

5. Do I need a family member / relative to become a Freemason?

   No, it is a common misconception that you need a to have a Grandfather, Father, Brother, etc to apply to join Freemasonry. This is not the case.

6. Are you required to be a Christian?

   No. Freemasonry has members from many different faiths and backgrounds including Christians and non-Christians alike.

7. Is it expensive to be a Freemason?

   All Lodges set their own membership fees to cover the costs involved with running a Lodge. These annual fees are generally considered very affordable.

Religion

1. What is Freemasonry's relationship with religion?

   All Freemasons are expected to have a belief in a Supreme Being, but Freemasonry does not seek to replace a Freemason’s religion or provide a substitute for it. It deals in a man’s relationship with his fellow man not in a man’s relationship with his God.

2. Why do some churches not like Freemasonry?

   There are elements within different churches who misunderstand Freemasonry and its objectives. They confuse secular rituals with religious liturgy. There are many Freemasons in churches where their leaders have been openly critical of the organisation. Freemasonry has always actively encouraged its members to be active in their own religion.