Are the Masons some sort of religion?
Absolutely not. Our membership is, in fact, made up of people who belong to many different religions. Every member is encouraged, and is completely free, to follow their own private personal beliefs. Religion, as such, is not permitted to be discussed in any Lodge.
Some of your old buildings have the word 'temple' on them. Why is that?
In the past, our Lodges were called 'temples'. This was an allegoric reference to King Solomon's Temple, constructed by early Masons, whose principles of Integrity, Goodwill and Charity, we have inherited.
Why do you not have women members?
There are other organisations that are strictly for women, and we agree with, and support their right to be 'strictly for women'. We feel confident that they, and other well informed people, would support our right to exist as we do.
Why do you wear black dinner suits, and carry little black bags?
The reason for this is quite simple. We wear dinner suits, because our meetings are conducted in a semi-formal and dignified manner, in keeping with our principles. Our members come from all walks
Why do you have any funny secrets at all?
In your daily life you have secrets; your bank cannot disclose your tax file number; your doctor is not allowed to disclose your medical records; you do not disclose your PIN numbers. Being discreet about
Is it a secret society?
I've heard that Masons, in the past, have been regarded as some sort of secret society, is that the situation now?
Until recently our policy was to be rather discreet
Is there an advantage to be a Mason?
I have heard that it is an advantage to a person's career to be a Mason, is this true?
This is a commonly held viewpoint, but it is incorrect.
How much time does it take?
I am told that Masons need to devote a lot of their own time to community work, and my time is limited, would this apply to me?