Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Freemasonry, from the United Grand Lodge of England
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest social and charitable organisations, with a history of more than 300 years. Its members come from all ages, races, religions and backgrounds. Lodge meetings include ceremonies that encourage tolerance, good citizenship and charitable responsibility, followed by a meal together, and many members make friendships that last a lifetime.
Freemasonry’s core values are Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service.
Why become a Freemason?
People join for many reasons: to make lasting friendships, to meet people from different walks of life, to learn about themselves through the ceremonies, and to give something back through charity. For three centuries Freemasonry has welcomed members from every background, from business leaders to tradespeople. And it is also great fun.
What goes on in a Lodge meeting?
Lodges perform three “degree” ceremonies, each presented like a one-act play and linked to a stage of life:
- Entered Apprentice, about equality and caring for those less fortunate
- Fellow Craft, about self-improvement and learning
- Master Mason, about making good use of the time we have
Meetings also cover the business of the Lodge, and are followed by an informal dinner, the “festive board”.
What happens in a Royal Arch (Chapter) meeting?
The Royal Arch completes the journey begun in the Third Degree. A Master Mason joins a Royal Arch Chapter through the Ceremony of Exaltation, and then continues to take part alongside his fellow Companions, deepening his understanding of the principles of Craft Freemasonry. Read more about the Royal Arch.
Why do Freemasons wear aprons?
The apron comes from the working stonemasons, whose leather aprons protected them from sharp tools and rough stone. Today it is a badge of membership. A new member receives a plain white leather apron, and the design becomes more decorated as he progresses.
Can women be members?
Women Freemasons have their own Grand Lodges. The United Grand Lodge of England is for men, and there are two Grand Lodges for women in England and Wales that work closely with it: the Order of Women Freemasons and Freemasonry for Women (the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons).
All three Grand Lodges prefer to remain single-sex and are happy to be separate organisations sharing the same values. The women’s lodges even meet in Freemasons’ Hall in London. If you are a woman interested in Freemasonry, please contact either of the women’s Grand Lodges directly.
What is different about the way Freemasons give to charity?
Mainly its scale. Freemasons are among the largest charitable givers in the country. The Masonic Charitable Foundation, funded by Freemasons and their families, supports Freemasons and their families as well as thousands of local and national charities, from tackling loneliness in later life to medical research and disaster relief. See our Charity page.
Is Freemasonry international?
Yes. The United Grand Lodge of England has Districts in many countries overseas, and there are independent Grand Lodges around the world. Freemasons can visit lodges abroad, and members of recognised Grand Lodges overseas can visit lodges in England and Wales.
How many Freemasons are there in the UK?
The United Grand Lodge of England has about 180,000 members in England and Wales. The Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland and the two women’s Grand Lodges have tens of thousands more, and there are an estimated six million Freemasons worldwide.
How much does it cost to become a Freemason?
Annual dues and fees average about £200 a year, according to the United Grand Lodge of England, but vary from lodge to lodge. There is also an initiation fee, the cost of dining after meetings, and in time your own regalia. Members give to charity within their means. See Joining.
Do you have to believe in a God?
Members must be able to affirm a belief in a Supreme Being. This wording is deliberately inclusive, so that men of all faiths can join, and members do not have to practise any particular religion.
Why is Freemasonry sometimes misunderstood, and what are we doing about it?
Much of the mystery comes from history and from how Freemasonry has been shown in books, films and television. Freemasons value privacy, and in the past said little about their membership, so the public knew little about it.
Today Freemasonry is open about what it does. Masonic halls offer public tours, members talk about their membership and their charity work, and the ceremonies are published. The best way to understand Freemasonry is to meet Freemasons, and we are always happy to talk.