Bremond Lodge No. 241

Freemasonry (also called “Masonry”) is the world”s first and largest Fraternity, based on the belief that each man can make a difference in the world. Freemasonry enhances and strengthens the character of the individual man by providing opportunities for fellowship, charity, and education.

Membership in Masonry is not a secret; all members are free to acknowledge their membership. There is no secret about any of Masonry’s aims or principles. Masonry’s constitutions and rules are available to the public, and meeting locations are clearly identifiable. Like many similar organizations, some of Masonry’s internal affairs, such as ceremonies, grips, and passwords, are regarded as private matters for members only.

There are two kinds of meetings for members. The most common is a business meeting, called a stated communication, devoted to administrative procedures: minutes of the last meeting, discussing financial matters, voting on applications, and planning for Lodge activities. The second kind of meeting is ceremonial, cornerstone laying, degree work used for admitting new Masons and conferring degrees.

Masonry does not endorse political candidates or legislation, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings is not allowed.

Masonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. The Fraternity requires its members to have a belief in a God, but the Fraternity itself is not affiliated with any religion, and men of all faiths are represented in the fraternity. Religion is not discussed at Lodge meetings. The Grand Lodge does not restrict membership by men of any denomination, including Catholic.

Masonry came to America from England and many of the original English titles are still in use. These titles may sound archaic in today’s society, but their meanings are simple. The Master is the leader of the Lodge, similar to the term president in other organizations. He is called “Master” for the same reason that the leader of first violins in an orchestra is called the concertmaster. It’s simply an older term for leader. The Senior and Junior Wardens represent the first and second vice presidents.

To become a mason, one must apply of his own free will and accord. Membership is not solicited. To become a member, a man must be 18 years of age or older, be of good moral character, and believe in the existence of a supreme being. A man seeking membership must be recommended by two Master Masons in good standing. The applicant's character will be investigated. After approval by the members of that Lodge, he will be accepted as an applicant for membership in Freemasonry. Click here to download the 'Petition for the Degrees'