Secret rulers of the world? A rival to religion? A club for the well-connected? We take the most common myths about Freemasonry and set the record straight.
Few organisations have gathered as many myths as Freemasonry. Novels, films and the internet have built a picture that would be unrecognisable to any real Mason. Let us clear away a few of the most stubborn.
“Freemasonry is a secret society.”
It is not. Our lodges are listed, our meeting places are known, our charitable work is public, and our members are free to say that they belong. What is kept private is the detail of the ceremonies — and even those have been published many times over. Freemasonry is better described as a society with some private customs than a secret society.
“It is a religion, or a rival to one.”
Freemasonry is neither. It requires a belief in a Supreme Being but takes no view on which faith a man should follow, and it never discusses religious doctrine in the lodge. Far from competing with religion, it encourages every member to be faithful to his own. Men of many faiths sit side by side in our lodges.
“It is a way to get ahead in business.”
Using membership for personal or business advantage is expressly against Masonic principles. Politics and business dealings are kept out of the lodge entirely. Men who join hoping for a leg up are quickly disappointed; men who join to become better and to help others find exactly what they came for.
“It is only for the wealthy or well-connected.”
One of the oldest principles of the Craft is that all men meet on the level. In a single lodge you will find tradesmen and professionals, young men and grandfathers, the newly arrived and the long-established — and once the lodge is opened, rank and wealth are left at the door.
“The truth of Freemasonry is far more ordinary, and far more worthwhile, than the myths.”
The surest way to see past the myths is to meet real Freemasons. We would be glad to answer any question you have, however sceptical.
Considering the Craft?
If Freemasonry speaks to you, the next step is simply a conversation. Lodge St Andrew at Bexley No. 7 would be glad to answer your questions — there is no obligation, only a warm welcome.
