In the past, some churches have not liked Freemasonry but this is largely the result of misunderstandings which are being broken down. Freemasons are encouraged to follow their own religions.

Of course! We have Freemasons from many faiths, including Catholicism.

No, leaders and members of different political persuasions have been Freemasons and we specifically avoid discussing politics in our meetings.

It is definitely not acceptable for Freemasons to give unfair preference to Freemasonry candidates in their job roles in the community. Freemasonry can be a business network for people to make new contacts but we do not operate in any way to create an exclusive circle of advantage.

In its early days, Freemasonry had reasons to be secretive to protect its stonemasons and to validate their skills. This secrecy really outlived its necessity and caused many misunderstandings and bizarre speculations. These day Freemasons are quite open about their membership, their meeting places and their objectives. We still have some matters that are confidential, as any organisation has. This particularly applies to our rituals which, like many traditional rituals, have more power and significance through being revealed to initiates at the appropriate time. We have nothing illegal or undesirable to hide.

No, this is a myth made popular by the Simpsons ‘Stonecutters’ episode. We take symbolism from stonemasonry but there’s no working with stones involved!

Unfortunately, the internet, novels and other popular sources spread some very odd ideas about Freemasonry. There is no conspiracy to take over the world, no black magic, no devil worship and no links to the Illuminati.

Freemasons around the world follow the basic tenets of a constitution which was written in the 1700s. There are slight variations between jurisdictions but the integrity of purpose is protected by the Grand Officers in each location. In South Africa, the Grand Lodge of South Africa is the body that guides and supports the independent local Lodges under its control.

In the days before printed certificates, the handshake was used to identify the various skill levels of a mason and is still in use today.

There is much conspiracy-theory misinformation on the internet and those who want to research further should look at Freemasonry sources or reputable academic institutions. Please contact us if you have any questions not answered here and we will be happy to give you honest answers.

Freemasonry

Traditionally, new members had to be nominated by a Freemason but these days not everyone knows a Freemason and, if you are a man of good character who meets our criteria, you can apply and we send your application to the relevant division.

All men aged over 18 of any religion, background and culture are welcome. You must acknowledge a Supreme Being (not necessarily Christian) and be committed to upholding our values and codes of conduct.

No, we do not consider it our place to enquire about sexual preferences. Integrity and ethical behaviour in relationships are important things.

Many Lodges do but some of the buildings cannot easily be adapted. Please let us know if you need special considerations for access and we will do our best to assign you to a suitable Lodge.

When your application is accepted, your contact will discuss with you which would be the best Lodge. Usually, this is one closest to your home.

Long before today’s ‘Women’s groups’ and ‘Men’s sheds’, Freemasons recognised the necessity for men to meet in each others’ company to explore their path through life. Our organisation’s purpose is ‘making good men better’. As better men, we are better husbands, partners, fathers and sons. There are related Freemason Orders for girls, women and partners of Freemasons.

The ‘regalia’ and ‘jewels’ follow a long tradition and recognise different levels of hierarchy and achievement. They are worn for ceremonial occasions.

As a new Freemason, you will need a dinner suit with a white shirt and black bow tie. In the beginning, the Lodge may supply your regalia but as you progress through the ‘degrees’ it is usual to buy your own regalia. This is sometimes available second-hand through your Lodge.

No, no ‘ancient’ text learning involved. You will eventually be asked to get involved in ritual work where some learning is involved.

Yes. You will meet men from many walks of life and sometimes these may be useful business contacts. However, you will not automatically be given preferences by other businesses just because you are a Freemason.

In creating better men, we hope to create people who build strong families and good relationships. There are no automatic monetary benefits for Freemason’s families. Our Fund of Benevolence may provide support and a hand-up in exceptional circumstances.

No, you will not be allowed to attend a ceremonial meeting. You will, however, as part of the application process, be allowed to attend the meal or other social activity after the meeting.

Membership fees are used to cover costs. We are a non-profit organisation but have many financial commitments in maintaining our buildings, providing regalia and running the organisation. There is a charity levy which goes to the Fund of Benevolence.

No, you can speak openly about being a Freemason but there are certain aspects of the meetings which you will be asked to keep confidential.

Charity and care within the community are part of the Freemasons’ commitment but there is no mandated level of donation (apart from the small benevolence levy as part of annual fees). People contribute according to their means and the time they have available.

No. All tax-deductible donations to our charity or special appeals go directly to the community beneficiaries. There is a separate fund to support Freemasons in times of exceptional need.

At a National level, we choose initiatives which can have a far-reaching and long-term effect, particularly in health, education and aged care. Local Lodges choose causes which mean a lot to their local communities and support local services.