Freemasonry consists of a body of men banded together for the purpose of mutual intellectual, social and moral improvement and pledged to preserve our traditions. Its members endeavour to cultivate and exhibit love and charity to one another and the world at large and, as individuals, search for the truth in their being.

'The essential condition for membership is a belief in a Supreme Being'.

Masonry recognises no distinction of religion and emphasises the duties of loyalty and citizenship. It does not permit any of its members to discuss religious or political questions in Lodge.

It offers no financial advantages binding one Mason to deal with another, or to support him in any way in the ordinary business relations of life.

We support a wide variety of Masonic and non-Masonic charities and good causes but Masonry is not in any financial sense a mutual-benefit society. Masonic Charities are solely for the less fortunate.

Masonry teaches that a man's first duty is to his family. People should not therefore join if the associated fees and charitable contributions will be to the detriment of their loved ones.

The R.Wor. Provincial Grand Master for East Lancashire
Sir David Trippier RD, JP, DL
talks about his own personal journey through Freemasonry.

Each Mason should be sure:

• He desires the intellectual and moral improvement of himself and others;
• He is willing to devote time, means and efforts in the promotion of brotherly love, relief and truth;
• He seeks no commercial, social or pecuniary advantages; and,
• He is able to afford the necessary expenditure without detriment to himself or his dependants.

As we progress on our Masonic journeys we begin to understand the advantages of membership and the additional meaning it brings to our lives. We joined because someone we knew, admired or loved – a friend or family member – was a Mason, and they wanted to share with us what they enjoyed, and we wanted to experience it too.

In East Lancashire we want Freemasonry to be fun, dignified and stimulating. This may be achieved through your quest for knowledge, giving back to society, gaining new friends from all backgrounds and age groups, self-improvement or achievement. There is nothing quite like Freemasonry elsewhere in life!

 Here are some quotes from our brethren that they attribute to Freemasonry:

• "We enjoy distinctive meetings not available in other organisations followed by dinner amongst friends"
• "Freemasonry has well managed fund raising and giving activities"
• "Our meetings are mentally stimulating, sometimes challenging, always enjoyable"
• "The history of Freemasonry and its links with society generally are fascinating"
• "We are reminded to consider our moral outlook and character – this system for living has made me a much better father, family member, colleague and Mason"
• "I have developed increased confidence, especially with public speaking and on a social level"
• "We meet with like minded people from differing backgrounds on equal terms"
• "We share journeys of personal development together"
• "My wife enjoys Freemasonry too and is very active on our Lodge social and ladies committee".

We encourage Masons to speak openly about their membership and their enjoyment of Freemasonry. The above may help you to articulate the good things about Freemasonry. You may even be able to add your own experiences and recall memorable nights when discussing the subject with friends, family or colleagues. In time you may well bring or introduce your own friends to our Order.

The above is an extract from the Province of East Lancashire Information Handbook, compiled by the:
Education and Training Committee.