About Freemasonry
Freemasonry is one of the oldest social and charitable organisation in the world.
Our roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles.
Freemasons today use four important guiding principles to help define their path through life:
INTEGRITY
Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.
FRIENDSHIP
One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology. It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
RESPECT
With a membership of more than 150,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society.
SERVICE
Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.
In today’s world filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true as they have at any point in the organisations history.
Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology, it is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, all backgrounds and age groups. In West Lancashire we have members from 18 to 105 years old.
It provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which last a lifetime.
Being a Freemason means something different to each person who joins, whether looking to make acquaintances or develop their own potential, all members share a sense of togetherness that strengthens their ability to succeed and grow.
Support of family and their involvement in our social and charitable giving plays a key part in our membership. Some ladies develop their own love of Freemasonry and its principles and they too can join one of two female only Grand Lodges, The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.
Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry and all members are encouraged to make positive contributions to communities and worthwhile causes, not only through fundraising but also in giving that most precious of gifts – our time in volunteer work.
Our members build on the guiding principles as individuals, as family groups, as supporters of charitable giving and community involvement and we are all encouraged to speak openly about membership.
Above all, it is hoped that each and every member will simply enjoy being a Freemason.