If
you’re thinking about becoming a Mason, you’re likely already aware that the
fraternity has many longstanding traditions and customs.
Perhaps the first you will encounter is the prohibition against
soliciting new members. Masons
believe that those who show genuine desire and interest in becoming members
are best suited to being Masons.
Only YOU can really know if you are prepared to be a Mason and so
it’s up to you to seek membership.
It’s as simple as that… to be a Mason, ask a Mason.
While Masons will not talk openly about their activities, few will hide the
fact they are members. If you
look closely, you will discover Masons everywhere – neighbours, friends, and
even relatives – all proudly displaying their affiliation.
If all else fails, just contact the Oakville Lodge here.
Qualifications for Membership
Membership is for men who:
·
are
21 years of age or older
·
meet
basic qualifications and standards of character and reputation
·
are of
good moral character
·
believe in the existence of a supreme being.
The
doors of Freemasonry are open to men who seek harmony with their fellow man,
feel the need for self-improvement and wish to participate in making this
world a better place to live.
Any
man who becomes a Mason is taught a pattern for living - reverence,
morality, kindness, honesty, dependability and compassion. He must be
prepared to honour his country, uphold its laws and respect those in
authority. He must be prepared to maintain honourable relations with others
and be willing to share in Masonic activities. Freemasonry is a way of life.
The Application Process
Once you have asked about becoming a Mason, a formal application process is
set in motion. While it may
seem complicated and take time, the process deeply rooted in history and
steeped in tradition. A man who
wants to join a lodge must be recommended for by two members of that lodge.
He must understand that his
character will be investigated.
The
first step is to meet with two current members of the Lodge.
They will help you complete the application form, determine your
qualifications and answer any questions you may have.
These members will become your sponsors and help guide you through
the rest of the process.
Your
application will then be passed along to the Grand Lodge (Masonry’s
governing body) for review and approval.
A second, more formal, interview will then be scheduled.
This time it is with three members of the Lodge and will usually take
place in your home and include your spouse (if you are married).
The
final stage of the interview and screening process is a vote by all the
members of the Lodge. A
successful applicant will then be invited to attend a meeting of the Lodge
at which you will participate in an initiation ceremony.
Obviously, such a complex and detailed process can take some time to
navigate. An applicant should
be prepared to wait several months from the time of enquiry to the time of
initiation. Your sponsors will
keep you apprised of the progress of your application.
