PRELIMINARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FREEMASONRY

This statement is to be read by the petitioner before he signs the petition.

Click here for the full form “Petition for the Degrees of Masonry”

You have expressed a desire to become a Freemason. We want you to know the exact nature of our institution because such knowledge might influence your decision to apply for membership.

Freemasonry strives to remind each man of the duties he owes to his God, his neighbor, his family and himself. It has as its foundation the basic principles, the Fatherhood of God, the Brotherhood of all mankind, and immortality of the soul. Yet Freemasonry does not presume to tell anyone what he ought to believe in matters pertaining to religion and while it anticipates that each person will participate in civic activities it is not involved with politics.

Admission to membership in Freemasonry must be free from any mercenary motives. While members are encouraged to support charitable works to the best of their ability, Masonry is not a mutual benefit society and membership does not guarantee assistance to any Mason.

Masonry has always insisted that those who apply for membership do so of their own free will. It does not countenance membership drives and those who do apply out of simple curiosity are generally disappointed. It expects applicants to have a favorable impression of Masonry and be willing to accept the high standards of morality which prevail among Masons.

If you are accepted for membership, you will be expected to meet the financial obligations to your Lodge which are set forth in the by-laws. These include fees for the degrees, annual dues to your Lodge, and any assessments. We trust that you are aware of these costs and that they are not an undue burden to you and your family. After reading this statement and after completing the petition, please detach this statement at the perforation and retain it for future reference.