FAQ

Q. Where can I find information on Masonry?
A. If we haven’t answered all your questions here on this website, send us an email and someone will contact you.

 

Q. Are the Masons a cult?
A. No. Several hate sites have made claims about the Masons being a cult, however, their statements have little or no foundation.

 

Q. Are the Masons creating New World Order?
A. No. Masons do not discuss politics with each other or at the lodge; this is forbidden as it could create controversy, so a government is out of the question.

 

Q. Do Masons promote hazing candidates?
A. No. Masons will help you become a better man, not tear you down.

 

Q. What are the requirements to become a mason?
A.  Anyone meeting the following primary requirements may petition an Ohio lodge for membership:

    Have been an Ohio resident for at least six months
    Are at least 19 years old
    Have a belief in a Supreme Being
    Live a good moral and social life
    Do not advocate the overthrow of the government
    Can read and write English
    Are recommended by two members of the Lodge they wish to join. (If you do not know two members of a Lodge, the secretary of the Lodge to which you are applying can arrange a meeting with two members of the Lodge for you.)

The application fee is generally between $100 and $250, and a Lodge’s annual dues are between $25 and $150. The Masonic term for a membership application is a “petition.” The application fee can be determined by contacting the secretary of the Lodge you wish to join.

 

Q. How do I become a Mason?
A. Because Masons have not traditionally recruited members and do not hold public meetings, there has long been confusion about how to join the Fraternity. Does someone ask you? Do you ask? But if you meet the requirements above, it is quite simple.

Most men can become a Mason by simply asking – like Washington, Franklin, and most every Mason from the past to the present day. Each Lodge manages the membership process for its candidates. In general, men seek out a Lodge near their home or work (the “Find a Lodge Near You” feature will help you find the nearest lodge), or they ask a Mason to recommend a Lodge to them. Once you’ve found a lodge you would like to join, let them know of your interest and they will provide you with a petition.

If you are unanimously elected by the members of a lodge, joining the Fraternity involves going through three “degrees”: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Every man accepted into the Fraternity goes through the degrees, thereby making each an equal to the others in the lodge. Typically they are conferred during a lodge’s monthly meeting over three months.

 

Q. What if I don’t know a Mason who can recommend me?

A. It is quite possible you know a Mason but you just don’t realize it. If your father, uncles, or grandfathers aren’t Masons, they probably know someone who is. You might also want to ask around your workplace or school, church, or gym – anywhere that you find a group of men, you might find a Mason. Although Masons tend to be very proud of their association with the Fraternity, they are often uncomfortable talking about it. It is particularly difficult for them to speak with their friends or family members because they don’t want to push Masonry on them. They might very well be looking forward to the opportunity to speak with you; more importantly, they would be honored to sponsor you for membership.

If you don’t know anyone who is a Mason and you are a stranger to all of the members of the lodge, you are going to want to take some time getting to know them. But they are going to want to take some time getting to know you, too. Once you are ready to Ask, a member of the lodge will sign your petition