What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is the largest and oldest secular fraternal order in the world, crossing all religious boundaries to bring men together of all countries, sects, and opinion in peace and harmony. It is a universal brotherhood, dedicated to serving the divine by service to family, country, and mankind.
Freemasonry is a philosophical organization emphasizing the study of moral symbols to build character. This education is, in part, the foundation of a more profound understanding of mankind and his existence. Living today in a “throw away / mass consumption society”, Freemasonry teaches about the value of people and the meaning of relativism over personal individualism. The real nature of Freemasonry is a spiritual force behind each member, improving him or herself morally by associating with other like-minded individuals. Also, Freemasonry acts as a social organization, promoting the interaction between like-minded men within the lodge to build bonds between them. By fostering this brotherhood relationships are made that remain even outside the comforts of the lodge the bonds remain and genuine affection prevails. Wherever traveling, masons meet and greet other masons as brothers as a result of these bonds.
Freemasonry opens men’s eyes to the knowledge that the road to happiness is found in the journey to the perfection of the spirit, intellect & soul, to strive to his fullest potential. Differing from religious institutions, Freemasonry sees all men as equal, not drawing division to beliefs. Fellow Freemasons are regarded as brothers because of the rituals of Freemasonry, which have remained virtually unchanged for many hundred years. By accepting men of all faiths, together in Freemasonry, they learn and teach the truths of morality, justice, patriotism and brotherly love. All expressed through reverence to the divine Great Architect of the Universe.
Is Freemasonry right for you?
Freemasonry is the oldest, largest Fraternity in the world. It’s members have included Kings, Presidents, Prime Ministers, Statesmen, Generals, Admirals, Supreme Court Justices, corporate CEOs, opera stars, movie stars and probably, your next door neighbor.Think about it….
And Masonry is always ready to welcome good men into the Fraternity. It’s ready to welcome YOU, if in your heart you can answer “yes” to a few questions.
Do you believe that there is such a thing as honor, and that a man has a responsibility to act with honor in everything he does?
Masons teach that principle. We believe that a life not founded on honor is hollow and empty — that a man who acts without honor is less than a man.
Do you believe in God?
No atheist can be a Mason. Masons do not care what your individual faith is — that is a question between you and your God — but we do require that a man believe in a Supreme Being.
Are you willing to allow others the same right to their own beliefs that you insist on yourself?
Masonry insists on toleration — on the right of each person to think for himself in religious, social and political matters.
Do you believe that you have a responsibility to leave the world a better place than you found it?
How to become a Freemason:
Freemasonry is proud of its philosophy and practice of “making good men better.” Only individuals believed to be of the finest character are favorably considered for Membership. Every applicant must advocate his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being.
The mission of Freemasonry is to promote a way of life that binds like minded men into a worldwide Brotherhood that transcends all religious, ethnic, cultural, social and educational differences; by teaching the great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth: and, by the outward expression of these, through its fellowship, its compassion and its concern, to find ways in which each may serve his God, his family, his country, his neighbors and himself.”
Keep in mind, Masons do not solicit for members, the decision to become a Mason is your own.
If you are seeking Membership YOU MUST ASK a Mason or a Masonic Lodge for an application.
You must be a man at least 18 years of age.
You must be of good moral character.
You must have a personal belief in a Supreme Being (the definition of a Supreme Being is up to you)
You must decide to become a Mason of “your own free will and accord”
You will need to express your personal interest in joining the Fraternity.
You must be loyal to your country.
You must be dedicated to providing for your family
You must have a sincere determination to conduct yourself in a manner that will earn the respect and trust of others and possess a desire to help others through community service and universal benevolence.
You must be willing to sign a Petition, stating your age, occupation and place of residence.
There are NO religious, political or racial restrictions for membership other than the aforementioned belief in a Supreme Being, as any discussion of religion or politics is strictly forbidden in a Masonic Lodge.
Admission is decided by ballot. To be accepted, the ballot must be unanimous.
The Application Process:
To apply, select the lodge to which you wish to apply. This lodge may be close to your work or home, whichever is most convenient. Contact the lodge you choose to schedule a visit during an event, at which time you can request a membership information packet. If you are interested in the Oroville Lodge, you can contact the Lodge Secretary through the "Contact" page on this web-site.
When you have completed the application form included in the packet, it must be signed by two Masons who recommend you for membership. You may have met some Masons at a lodge event. You can also contact the lodge secretary for assistance.
Return your application and the specified application payment. The lodge will schedule visits in your home with selected lodge members to discuss your application and to answer your questions. Your application will be voted upon at the next lodge meeting.
You will be notified of your acceptance as a candidate for the degrees, and you will receive instructions about the three degree ceremonies. The degrees explain Freemasonry and give you the opportunity to experience the lodge’s traditions and fellowship. When you complete all three degrees, you become a full member.