Freemasonry Today - Its Principles

Freemasonry is an organization open to all men who have a desire to be a good andproductive contributor to society. It recognises no distinction between races, creeds,social qualifications, or political persuasions. Freemasons strive to become bettercitizens, better family men, and better employees or employers. They believe in helpingthose who are in need, and to make charity and benevolence a journey with Freemasonry.Members are expected to be people of integrity, and they enjoy fellowship in anatmosphere of mutual trust - this is important for humanity as planet Earth's history havebeen full of conflicts and divisions among its inhabitants.There are three levels of membership known as 'degrees'. Those degrees are:1st Degree: Entered Apprentice2nd Degree: Fellow Craft3rd Degree: Master MasonThe ceremony of each degree is about wisdom, and principles of morality. Symbolismand Masonic working tools are used in these ceremonies to convey such teachings. Thefamous Masonic working tools, the square and compasses are the universal emblems of Freemasonry. Masonic "secrets" which are intrigue the public are just hand shakes, signs,and symbols used by Freemasons to identify one another.Freemasons meet in places they refer to as Lodges. Each lodge is presided over by aWorshipful Master (President) who is elected annually by the members. Members aregiven the opportunity to move through the various Offices of a Lodge to develop self-confidence, improve public speaking skills, and promote leadership. The Lodge meetingsinclude solemn ceremonies, and stimulating lectures on the ancient traditions andprinciples of the Craft in which Freemasonry is based. Almost all the meetings concludewith a supper where members get to enjoy fellowship.Members are not permitted to discuss political, religious, or racial issues in Lodges.Freemasons are also urged to obey laws, and perform civic duties in the country in whichthey reside. Membership for personal gain is not permitted, and it is not a mutual benefitsociety. Freemasonry is not a religion, does not have a Divine Revelation, and offers nosalvation.Freemasonry reinforces kindness, honesty, courtesy, and fairness. It flourishes in almostevery free country, and is a way of life for men of all nations. Freemasonry today is asociety for people helping people.