Joining Suffolk Freemasons

Why Do People Join and Remain Members?

People become Freemasons for a variety of reasons, some as the result of a family tradition, some after being introduced by a friend and some as a result of researches which led them to want to join.

Those who become active members and who grow in Freemasonry do so principally because they enjoy it. They enjoy the challenges and fellowship that Freemasonry offers.

Participation in the dramatic presentation of moral lessons and in the working of a lodge provides a member with a unique opportunity to learn more about himself and encourages him to live in such a way that he will always be in search of becoming a better man, not better than someone else but better than he himself would otherwise be and therefore an exemplary member of society.

Each Freemason is required to learn and show humility through initiation. Then, by progression through a series of degrees, he gains insight into increasingly complex moral and philosophical concepts, and accepts a variety of challenges and responsibilities that are both stimulating and rewarding. The structure and working of the lodge and the sequence of ceremonial events, which are usually followed by social gatherings, offer members a framework for companionship, teamwork, character development and enjoyment of shared experiences.

How Do I Become a Freemason?

Just ask! If you would like to meet us and get to know more about us, we too would be delighted to meet you, to spend time with you and to answer your questions.

For a Fraternity with a wonderful history that goes back many centuries, you might think it is difficult to become a Mason. Surprisingly, it’s not difficult at all; it’s very straightforward.

First of all, Freemasonry does not accept anyone unless they come of their own free will and accord, having already obtained a favourable impression of our Fraternity.

But there are a few simple but very important requirements. You must:

• Be a man, over the age of twenty-one.
• Believe in a Supreme Being.
• Live an ethical and moral life.
• Have a strong interest in the Fraternity and desire to participate in its charities and its activities.

We believe that men are first made Masons in their hearts. That is to say that in their everyday lives, they are already naturally inclined towards the kind and worthy values and principles by which Masons strive to live.

Finding that they have much in common, they then ask to join our Fraternity. Freemasonry will accept these men — good men in their hearts and in communities — and help them become better men.

We recognise that every man brings something different into Freemasonry but each shares a common core of beliefs. Each believes that, in a small way, by their actions they might help to improve this world, their communities, and themselves.

When the formal paperwork is completed, the Lodge members hold a ballot to confirm that they wish to have you as a member. Masonry tends to be a lifelong experience and the members need to confirm that they are happy to share your company during the many travels that you will make together.

If you are interested in receiving more information about Freemasonry, or if you would like to arrange to meet in person, contact us and we will be pleased to do the rest.

Should you wish to research more, before making any decisions, please visit the website of the United Grand Lodge of England which is the governing body of Freemasonry in this Country. http://www.ugle.org.uk