This is not an easy question to answer, because every brother has his own reasons and perspective on why he originally enquired and then proceeded with a decision to become a member. So – there are a multitude of answers to this complex question. However, over the years, brethren have openly stated their reasons, so perhaps the best way is to explore and try to explain, some of the values which attracted them.

Freemasonry has a strong moral code. Its ritual encourages brethren to consider their actions and more especially, the effect of their actions upon others. In fact there is a piece of Masonic Ritual which sums this up very nicely, as follows: “A man, rising to eminence by merit, should live respected and die regretted. By joining Freemasonry a man will be accepted into a brotherhood of ‘like minded’ men around the world – men with similar values and understanding.

Freemasonry is like life’s journey, gradually identifying and evaluating your inner-self – ie: What ‘makes you tick’! No one can tell you what that journey will be and what effect joining will have on your personal inner-self. This is the joy of Freemasonry. The joy of personally finding ones inner-self. It will not happen immediately; it will be a life long revelation. Freemasonry is similar to life itself, in that in most cases you receive back in proportion to what you put in.

There are three great principles which are the cornerstone of Freemasonry – brotherly love, relief and truth. They are universal and recognized by men and women of different faiths and cultures as a way of working together for the overall improvement of society.

They are best explained as follows:

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 practice charity and to care – not only for family and friends, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

Truth

Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives. Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.