Welcome from the Worshipful Master

So what is Freemasonry all about?

• What is Freemasonry ?
• Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest secular fraternities with some 20,000 members in Ireland and around 6 million members worldwide. It is a society concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught these precepts by a series of ancient forms, using the customs and tools of the stonemason as allegorical guides. It has been said that Freemasons use 18th century language to teach 21st century values.
• Freemasonry and Religion
• Freemasonry is not a religion, or a combination of religions, nor is it a substitute for religion. It expects its members to adhere to their own faith, and it does not permit discussion on religious matters at Masonic meetings and gatherings. A Freemason is encouraged firstly to do his duty to his God through his faith and religious practice, and secondly to his neighbour through charity, tolerance and service. These ideas are not exclusively Masonic, but are universally acceptable, and Freemasons are expected to follow them.
• The Three Great Principles
• Freemasons are expected to adhere to three principles:
• Brotherly Love
• Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.
• Relief
• Freemasons are taught to practise charity, and to care, not only for their own members, but for the community as a whole, by both charitable giving, and by voluntary effort.
• Truth
• Freemasonry strives for truth and requires high moral standards of its members.
• Charity
• Freemasonry has been concerned from its earliest days with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today, and in recent times substantial sums have been donated to both Masonic and non-Masonic charities.