What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the world. It unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic or social backgrounds, share a belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind. Freemasonry offers a system or blueprint for the good man to further improve his character and actions through its system of degrees, symbols, and fellowship opportunities.

The United Grand Lodge of England reports that worldwide membership totals more than 6 million Freemasons, 1.1 million of whom are in North America. With 68,000 Masons and 440 local Lodges, Ohio has one of the largest Masonic memberships of any state in the country.

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When did Freemasonry Start?

Modern Freemasonry was established in England in 1717, although its exact origins are lost in the unrecorded history of medieval times.  Its roots are found in guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 13th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons.  As a stonemason grew in his craft, he was entered into the appropriate rank: apprentice, journeyman (now called Fellow Craft) and master mason.

At each stage, the craftsman was entrusted with the secrets of each level, which include passwords and grips (or handshake) made known to him only upon due inspection of necessary proficiency by a master of the craft.  This way, as stonemasons migrated across Europe to the next job, each man was assured proper pay and privilege commensurate with his skill level, and clients were assured of the quality of work. Today, Freemasonry shares this same system of secrets, ritual and growth, though the work has shifted from building edifices to building oneself in good character.

How does Freemasonry work?

Freemasonry functions on at least three levels:

1) Philosophically, Freemasonry is a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. This classic definition is used by many grand lodges around the world. Morality encompasses ethical principles of right and wrong, and adherence to these principles is one reason that Masons are often considered trusted leaders, employees, and volunteers.

2) Organizationally, Freemasonry is a nonprofit, private association that operates as a grand lodge with a network of subordinate Masonic lodges. In these lodges, members are received and cared for, lessons and ceremonies are conducted, and social events and fellowship opportunities are held.

3) Freemasonry is also a "way of life" for good men-Freemasons-who apply Masonic principles to their daily activities, both personal and professional. By so doing, men work to become the best they can be for themselves, their families, and their communities. Most of the fellowship and service to humanity that is inspired by Masonic teachings happens at this level of individual action.